6-day Family Friendly Itinerary: Ålesund, Geiranger, Stryn, Villages, Mountains, Views, Food, Fish
Day 1: Explore Ålesund
0 minute from Downtown Ålesund
Morning: Visit Ålesund Aquarium to see the diverse marine life in the fjords. Afternoon: Head to the Jugendstil Center, a museum dedicated to the Art Nouveau architecture that characterizes Ålesund. Evening: Take a walk up to Mount Aksla to catch the beautiful sunset over the city.
Day 2: Geirangerfjord
2 hours (70 miles) from Ålesund
Morning: Drive to Geirangerfjord, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a scenic boat tour through the fjord. Afternoon: Hike to the top of Dalsnibba, the highest point in the area, to see panoramic views of the fjord. Evening: Enjoy dinner at Westeras Gard, a farm-to-table restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
Day 3: Stryn
1.5 hours (50 miles) from Geiranger
Morning: Visit Briksdal Glacier, a stunning glacier with an easy walking trail leading up to it. Afternoon: Head over to Stryn Summer Ski Center, where you can ski even in the summer months. Evening: Relax in the hot springs at Hotel Alexandra.
Day 4: Hjørundfjord and Villages
2 hours (65 miles) from Stryn
Morning: Drive to Hjørundfjord and take a ferry ride through the fjord, taking in the breathtaking mountain views. Afternoon: Explore the charming villages of Øye and Norangsdalen. Evening: Dine at Christian Gaard Bygdetun, a historic farmstead turned restaurant.
Day 5: Ålesund Coastal Trail and Sunnmøre Alps
1 hour (30 miles) from Hjørundfjord
Morning: Walk the Ålesund Coastal Trail, a scenic path that runs along the coast and offers stunning views of the ocean and the city. Afternoon: Drive to the Sunnmøre Alps, where you can hike to the top of the peaks and see panoramic views of the fjords. Evening: Enjoy dinner at XL Diner, a classic American-style diner in the heart of Ålesund.
Day 6: Fish Market and Departure
10 minutes (1 mile) from Downtown Ålesund
Morning: Visit the Ålesund Fish Market, where you can buy fresh seafood and experience local market culture. Afternoon: Explore the picturesque streets of Ålesund one last time before departing.
Recommendations
If you have time, consider visiting the island of Runde to see the famous bird cliffs. Another great side trip is to the village of Urke, where you can hike the stunning Romsdalseggen Ridge. To maximize your fun, consider renting a bike in Ålesund and exploring the city on two wheels. Finally, be sure to try the local delicacy, rakfisk, a fermented fish dish that is best enjoyed with a glass of aquavit.