Ålesund

Perhaps Norway’s most beautiful city, the tiny port of Ålesund is home to a population of just over 40,000 and is known for its distinct Art Nouveau architecture. The city, which almost entirely burned down in 1904, was rebuilt in the style in the years following, and now features beautiful pastel-colored buildings. Visitors to the city, which is located on Norway’s western coast, will likely only spend one or two nights in town before venturing further into the fjords. Must-do activities include here hiking the 418 steps to the top of Aksla Mountain, which offers beautiful panoramic views, taking a sea safari to a seal colony and Runde Bird Island to see eagles and puffins, visiting Alnes Lighthouse and touring the Art Nouveau Centre (Apotekergata 16) in town to learn more about the great fire. It is also fun to kayak here, as you can explore the city and surrounding wilderness by water.