Ålesund is a port town on the west coast of Norway, at the entrance to the Geirangerfjord. It’s known for the art nouveau architectural style in which most of the town was rebuilt after a fire in 1904, as documented at the Jugendstilsenteret museum. There are panoramic views of Ålesund’s architecture, the surrounding archipelago and fjords from the Mount Aksla lookout.

When you're done with all that exploring, take a walk up the 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla for an unforgettable panoramic view of the city below, an awesome sight and one of the top free things to do in Ålesund day or night. Part of beautiful Ålesund Town Park, the stairs and grounds were laid out in 1885 by a local gardener, who drew inspiration from the area's topography.

For more than 150 years, the lighthouse Molja has shown the way for boats entering the harbour of Ålesund. The lighthouse now contains a comfortable and brand new hotel room, accessible through the Hotel Brosundet.