Last Updated: 16 February 2026
Key Takeaways
- Best Brewery: Molo Brew (located right by the cruise terminal).
- Best for Variety: Smutthullet Pub and Dirty Nelly.
- Must-Try Beer: Molo’s “Hellelujah Helles” or “Slogen” from Trollbryggeriet.
- Festival Alert: The Ålesund Beer Festival runs every August.
Craft beer has taken the world by storm, and the picturesque town of Ålesund in Norway is no exception.
I recently came back from a week-long cruise around the Norwegian Fjords, with the first stop being this Art Nouveau gem. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, Ålesund offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts.
If you are stepping off a ship and Googling “breweries near me”, you are in luck. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the local craft beer scene, the best bars, and the must-try beers in Ålesund.
So grab a pint, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of craft beer in Ålesund.
The Craft Beer Scene in Ålesund
Located on the west coast of Norway, Ålesund is famous for its architecture and breathtaking fjords. But recently, it has also become a hotspot for small brewery culture.
The movement gained traction in the early 2000s when passionate homebrewers started experimenting with different beer styles. Today, the town boasts a vibrant nightlife scene where local brews are celebrated alongside international favourites.
Molo Brew: The Pride of Ålesund
If you only visit one place, make it Molo Brew.
Situated at Stornespiren (literally right next to where the cruise ships dock), this is the only full-scale brewpub in the town centre. It has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, not just for the molo brewery beers, but for the atmosphere.
The Venue & Vibe
Molo Brew is located in an old warehouse on Keiser Wilhelms Gate. It features a massive glass wall looking into the brewery, so you can watch the magic happen while you drink. It is spacious, industrial, and features shuffleboard tables and board games, making it the perfect hangout spot.
The Beers
They usually have around 25 lines on tap. Here are a few you need to look out for:
- Hellelujah Helles: An award-winning lager that is crisp, clean, and perfect for a sunny day on the terrace.
- Hoppy Harbor IPA: A classic West Coast IPA that showcases the best of crafted beer near me.
- Midnight Sun Stout: Rich with chocolate and coffee notes, perfect for the colder Norwegian evenings.
- Sour Ales: They often have experimental sours infused with local fruits like cloudberries.
Food Pairing
You can’t talk about Molo without mentioning the food. They serve what are arguably the best burgers in town. A juicy “Molo Burger” paired with their IPA is a match made in heaven.
Other Top Craft Beer Bars in Ålesund
While Molo is the main event, if you are looking for a beer store near me or a cosy pub, check these out:
1. Smutthullet Pub
A legendary local spot. It has a cosy, traditional pub feel and offers a massive selection of bottled beers from all over Norway. If you want to try beers from regional breweries like Trollbryggeriet (from nearby Stranda) or Geiranger Bryggeri, this is the place to go.
2. Dirty Nelly Irish Pub
Located in the heart of town, this is a staple of Ålesund nightlife. While it serves the usual Guinness, it also has a surprising number of rotating craft taps and a great selection of local bottles.
3. T2 Bar og Scene
If you want to combine your craft beer with live music, head to T2. It is a cultural hub that supports microbreweries and often features tap takeovers.
Ålesund Beer Festival (Ålesund Ølfestival)
If you are planning your trip for late summer, you are in for a treat.
Every August, the town hosts the Ålesund Ølfestival as part of the Norwegian Food Festival. It brings together breweries from all over the Møre og Romsdal region. You can buy a tasting glass and sample hundreds of different beers, from molo brew Ålesund specials to rare meads and ciders.
(Note: The next festival is scheduled for August 2026).
Where to Buy Bottles (Vinmonopolet)
In Norway, supermarkets can only sell beer up to 4.7% ABV. If you want to buy strong craft beer or wine to take back to your ship or hotel, you must go to the Vinmonopolet (The Wine Monopoly).
There is one located in the Kremmergaarden shopping centre in downtown Ålesund. They have an excellent selection of strong stouts, IPAs, and Belgian ales.
Ålesund may be a small town, but it is big on flavour. Whether you are sitting on the terrace at Molo Brew watching the ships come in, or hiding away in Smutthullet with a dark stout, you will find a thriving community of beer lovers here.
Skål!
FAQ: Drinking in Ålesund
Hva er de beste stedene i Ålesund for mikrobryggerier? (What are the best places in Ålesund for microbreweries?) The best place is undoubtedly Molo Brew at Keiser Wilhelms Gate 2B. It is the only brewpub in the city centre brewing on-site.
Is alcohol expensive in Ålesund? Yes, Norway has high taxes on alcohol. Expect to pay around 100-140 NOK (£8-£11) for a pint of craft beer.
Can I visit breweries near Ålesund? Yes. If you have a car, you can visit Trollbryggeriet in Liabygda or Geiranger Bryggeri in Geiranger, both of which offer stunning views and great tours.
What is the local beer of Ålesund? While Molo is the local brewery, you will also see Geiranger and Trollbryggeriet beers everywhere. Historically, the region is famous for traditional farm ales.
