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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Bergen And The Western Fjords, Norway

Accommodation Types

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels

    Ålesund Vandrerhjem offers cost-effective dorms and private rooms.

  • Hotels (Mid-range)

    Thon Hotels and Scandic Hotels have modern amenities; breakfast often included.

  • Luxury Hotels

    Upscale options with unique designs, prime locations, and excellent dining.

  • Guesthouses/B&Bs

    Small, independent hotels for a personalized stay and local feel.

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals/Apartments

    Platforms like Airbnb and local agencies have kitchen facilities and more space.

  • Camping and Outdoor

    Campsites near Ålesund have cabins, pitches for tents and caravans.

  • City Center Options

    Near Art Nouveau buildings, shops, and restaurants, easy for sightseeing.

  • Island Retreats

    Quieter stays on Hessa or Nørvøy, close to nature and hiking opportunities.

Neighborhood Guide

Ålesund's layout across several islands creates distinct neighborhoods, each with a different atmosphere.

City Center

Pros
  • Central location has easy access to attractions, dining, and transport.
  • The area has visual appeal, with historic buildings.
Cons
  • It can be noisy, notably on weekends due to nightlife.
  • Parking is limited and expensive.

Hessa

Pros
  • Quieter environment, close to nature and the aquarium.
  • Better parking options exist here.
Cons
  • Requires a bus or car to reach the city center (10-15 min drive).
  • Dining options are fewer compared to downtown.

Nørvøy

Pros
  • Well-suited for visitors wanting close proximity to the Aksla viewpoint and its hiking trails.
Cons
  • Further from the main shopping and extensive dining areas of the city center.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

City Center Ambiance

The city center experiences some nightlife noise on weekends, especially near bars and restaurants. The city center is very safe, even at night.

Residential Area Peace

Residential areas like Hessa and Nørvøy are generally quiet and peaceful, for a calm retreat after a day of sightseeing. They are very safe, family-friendly areas.

Booking Strategies

Securing your accommodation in Ålesund can require planning, specifically during peak travel periods.

Advance Booking

  • Highly recommend booking for summer (June-August) and cruise season.
  • Popular places fill quickly; book 3-6 months ahead for peak travel.
  • Shoulder season (May, September) allows flexibility; book a month or two ahead.
  • Low season (October-April) has the most flexibility and lower prices.

Booking Platforms

  • Common international platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com are reliable.
  • For vacation rentals, Airbnb and local agencies are popular.
  • Check official hotel websites for direct booking promotions.
  • Always check deposit and cancellation policies before confirming.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Summer Season Prices
  • Accommodation prices are significantly higher in summer.
  • Prices go up by 20-50% in peak season compared to low season.
Off-Season Savings
  • Traveling during the shoulder season or low season means considerable savings.
  • More flexibility and lower prices are common outside peak periods.

Affiliate Booking Resources

Accommodation Booking Platforms

Find a wide range of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals: Booking.com | Agoda | IHG Hotels

Specialty Stays

For budget lodging: Hostelworld. For vacation homes: Vrbo.

Unique Exchanges

For unique house and pet sitting opportunities: TrustedHousesitters.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are examples of accommodation types, suited to different traveler needs.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget: Ålesund Vandrerhjem

A youth hostel with dorms and private rooms. It is good value.

  • Dorms and private rooms
  • Good value for money
  • Basic amenities often included
  • Shared kitchen
Mid-Range: Thon/Scandic Hotels

Centrally located with modern amenities.

  • Centrally located
  • Modern amenities
  • Often includes breakfast buffet
  • Balances comfort and price

Luxury & Family Options

Luxury: Hotel Brosundet

A boutique hotel directly on the Brosundet canal.

  • Uniquely designed rooms
  • Excellent dining options
  • Premium experience
  • Historical ambiance
Family-Friendly: Vacation Rentals

Platforms like Airbnb offer more space and kitchen facilities.

  • More space than hotel rooms
  • Separate bedrooms
  • Kitchen facilities
  • Suits families well

Solo & Long-Stay Travel

  • Solo: Hostels

    Hostels fit solo travelers seeking social interaction and budget-friendly options.

  • Solo: Centrally Located Hotels

    Centrally located hotels also suit solo travelers, with easy access to sights and public transport.

  • Long-Stay: Vacation Rentals

    Vacation rentals or apartments for stays longer than a few days.

  • Long-Stay: Cost Savings

    They have more comfort, a sense of home, and the ability to cook your own meals, which can greatly lessen expenses.

Culturally Significant Properties

  • Hotel Brosundet

    Housed in an old warehouse, unique design, connection to maritime past.

  • Hotell 1904

    Authentic Art Nouveau building from the town's rebuilding period, steeped in history.

  • Historical Ambiance

    Experience Ålesund's past through properties reflecting its unique architectural story.

  • Local Character

    Stays in historic buildings immerse you in the town's distinct character.

General Advice for Booking

Plan Ahead

Booking in advance is always recommended, especially during popular seasons.

  • Secure preferred lodging.
  • Better prices often available.
  • Avoid disappointment.
  • More choices.
Flexible Stays

Consider vacation rentals for extended stays or family trips.

  • More space.
  • Kitchen facilities.
  • Cost-effective for groups.
  • Independent travel experience.

Additional Considerations

Accessibility

Check if properties have accessible rooms or facilities if needed.

Reviews

Read recent guest reviews on booking platforms before reserving.

Location vs. Price

Balance central location benefits with potential noise and cost trade-offs.