Atlanterhavsparken – Atlantic Sea-Park
Built directly into the rocky coastline at Tueneset, three kilometres west of the city centre, Atlanterhavsparken is not your average aquarium — it is one of Northern Europe's largest saltwater facilities, and its tanks are filled with unfiltered Atlantic seawater, making the marine life inside feel startlingly real. Otters, seals, and the full cast of the Norwegian deep await.
An Aquarium Built into the Ocean
Atlanterhavsparken has been one of Northern Europe's largest and most unique saltwater aquariums since its current facility opened in 1998, and in 2021 it added Norway's first science centre with a marine profile. The building is an architectural gem in its own right, set into the spectacular coastal landscape at Tueneset on the western edge of Ålesund, with the open Atlantic visible beyond the tanks.
The large landscape tanks use unfiltered seawater to recreate life along the Norwegian coast and in the Atlantic Ocean with extraordinary fidelity. You are not looking at a recreation — you are looking at the actual ecosystem, just behind glass. Shoals of cod, wolf fish, and deep-water species move through tanks that hold up to 15 million litres of seawater.
Seals, Otters & the Science Centre
Above water, playful otters and curious seals inhabit open-air habitats where you can watch them at close range — feeding sessions draw genuine delight from visitors of all ages. The science centre extension adds interactive exhibits that make the marine biology accessible and genuinely engaging, not just for children but for anyone curious about the North Atlantic ecosystem.
The aquarium is about 3.6 km from the city centre — a pleasant coastal walk along Kirkegata and Steinvåvegen that passes more Jugendstil buildings on the way. Alternatively, take bus No. 1 toward Hessa and alight at the Tuenesvegen stop, then walk 10–15 minutes to the entrance.
Planning Your Visit
Allow at least two hours, more if you have children or a serious interest in marine life. The Ålesund City Card includes free entry, making it excellent value combined with the Jugendstilsenteret and Sunnmøre Museum. The aquarium has ample parking for those arriving by car, and the seven-minute drive from the city centre is straightforward.
Atlanterhavsparken – Atlantic Sea-Park on video
More of Ålesund
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Ålesund →
