Aksla Panorama for the Best Views of Ålesund, Norway
It’s nice when you don’t need a drone to be able to see social media famous photos of locations…here’s how to see the iconic photo of Ålesund in Norway.
Why Should You Go?
For the absolute best view of Ålesund, you need to head to the viewpoint atop Mount Aksla which is conveniently located in town.
There is a reason why this panorama is so widely photographed – really showcases why this area and Ålesund is known as where mountains (Sunnmøre Alps) meet the fjord. Plus it’s easily accessible and free (if you are able to make the physical journey).
The Payoff: Aksla Panorama
Ålesund from the Askla viewpoint
WAYS TO REACH THE SUMMIT
Walking – 418 stairs
418 stairs will take you to the top of the lookout
One thing to note is that the walk to and through the park isn’t flat – there is a fairly noticeable incline before you even reach the bottom of the stairs. Take a right and follow the signs for Fjellstua 418
What is the Walk Up the Stairs Like?
The stairs are very broad and also short with hand rails in many places
And there are numerous spots to stop and admire the views and take photos.
Lots of switchbacks equals more stairs but is easier to navigate as they lessen the incline so don’t be intimidated by these
For some they like knowing/seeing this info – for others, it’s another form of torture to see how many steps are ahead…but soon you will reach the top one!
Or even if you don’t make it all the way to the top, you are still treated to some incredible views – and can understand why Kaiser Wilhelm often visited this area and helped rebuild Ålesund. This was the most I was able to do the first time I was here.
If you walked up the stairs, look at what you were able to conquer!
Hop On Hop Off Bus
Stops include cruise terminal/open air museum/aquarium/near Aksla viewpoint – the drop off is not at the top, so you will still need to walk 15 minutes to the viewpoint according to the hop on hop off brochure.
If there are multiple ships in port, be prepared to wait to board…
Ålesund City Train
I only know about this because I saw it when I was at the top. Only on days there are cruise ships, this runs every 20 minutes from the cruise terminal. You are only able to buy the tickets at ticket office (located at the cruise terminal) Pricing is 350 NOK/Adult (over 15 years) and 170 NOK/Child (3-15 years) for 2025.
Alesund to Trollstigen Tour
When driving down the Trollstigen (Troll Road), the driver will amazingly drive the bus through 11 hairpin bends.
If you are wanting to witness the hairpins curves of Troll Road but wanted more time to visit Ålesund, the 6.5 hour Alesund to Trollstigen, The Land Of The Trolls with the bonus that this tour takes you up to the Aksla viewpoint.
Drive and Park
Note that with cruise ships in town, parking can be hard to find especially if there are multiples ships.
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About Author
Rosemary is a travel hacker, points nerd and female solo traveler who’s explored 70+ countries without a trust fund, sugar daddy, or sponsored content. Every mile, upgrade, and trip is completely self-funded using a mix of points, miles, and cash or earned with elite status. And she shows you the receipts along with a mildly concerning amount of spreadsheets. Through firsthand experience and plenty of trial and error, she teaches everyday travelers the art of travel hacking and how they too can travel for cheaper, better, and more often. While Rosemary doesn’t take herself too seriously, she does take award travel (and searching for the best ice cream) seriously – because seeing the world shouldn’t be reserved for the rich, the retired, or content creators with brand deals.
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