Ålesund is a coastal town located in the county of Møre og Romsdal, western Norway. The town is situated on several small islands and has a rich maritime heritage, which is reflected in its architecture. Ålesund is most famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, which was built after a major fire in 1904 destroyed much of the town. The rebuilding was done in the Art Nouveau style, which was popular at the time, and today, the town is considered to be one of the best examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the world.

Ålesund is also a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful coastline, fjords, and mountains. The surrounding area is home to several popular attractions, including the Ålesund Aquarium, the Ålesund Maritime Museum, and the Sunnmøre Museum. The town is also a starting point for several scenic drives and hikes, including the famous Atlanterhavsvegen (Atlantic Road) and the popular hike up the nearby mountain of Aksla.