Nestled where the Nidelva River meets the Trondheimsfjord, Trondheim is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends historical attractions with contemporary experiences. With nearly 200,000 residents, including 30,000 students, this charming city offers a lively atmosphere that’s both welcoming and exciting.
As you plan your trip to this captivating Norwegian city, you’ll find that Trondheim has a lot to offer, from the majestic Nidaros Cathedral to the charming Bakklandet neighborhood. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, this guide will walk you through the top attractions and hidden gems to make your visit truly memorable.
With its rich history, cultural significance, and friendly vibe, Trondheim is a must-visit destination. Let’s dive into the things to do in this incredible city.
Discovering Trondheim: Norway’s Historic Gem
Trondheim is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with its vibrant cultural scene, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Trondheim offers a unique experience that caters to all interests.
A Brief History of Trondheim
Trondheim was founded in 997 by King Olav Trygvesson, marking the beginning of its long and storied past. The city has played a significant role in Norwegian history, serving as a royal residence and a center of commerce. Today, visitors can still experience the city’s rich heritage by visiting its many historical landmarks.
The city’s resilience and adaptability are reflected in its rebuilding after a devastating fire, resulting in the Baroque architecture that characterizes much of its historic center.
When to Visit Trondheim
The best time to visit Trondheim largely depends on your preferences. Summer offers long days and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Winters, on the other hand, provide a serene atmosphere and the potential to witness the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights.
For those looking for a more balanced experience, spring and autumn are excellent choices, offering mild weather and fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the city’s many historical and cultural attractions.
How to Get to Trondheim
Trondheim is a city that is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. You can reach Trondheim by air, land, or sea, depending on your preference and starting location.
By Air
Trondheim Airport, Værnes, is the primary airport serving the city. It offers flights to and from major Norwegian cities and some international destinations. Flying is a convenient option, with flight times from Oslo being around 1 hour.
By Train
For those who prefer to travel by train, Vy operates regular services from Oslo to Trondheim. The journey takes approximately 6.5 to 7 hours, depending on the type of train and the number of changes.
By Car
If you prefer to drive, Trondheim is accessible via the E6 highway from Oslo. The drive takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.
Getting Around Trondheim
Trondheim is a compact city that can be easily navigated on foot or by bike. The city’s efficient public transportation system and scenic bike paths make it an ideal place to explore.
Public Transportation
The AtB AtB travel card travel card is a great option for getting around Trondheim. It offers the best value for your stay and can be used on buses throughout the city.
Walking and Cycling
Trondheim is a walker’s delight, with historic neighborhoods and scenic views to enjoy. Cyclists will appreciate the city’s bike-friendly roads and the CycloCable, which assists in navigating the city’s hilly terrain.
Trondheim, Norway: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Trondheim, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a plethora of exciting experiences for visitors. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural scene, Trondheim is a must-visit destination in Norway.
Nidaros Cathedral
The Nidaros Cathedral is a crown jewel of Trondheim, standing as a testament to the city’s rich history. Built between 1070 and 1300, this magnificent Gothic structure is not only a significant religious site but also a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage.
Bakklandet and Gamle Bybro
Bakklandet is known for its charming wooden houses and cobblestone streets, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Gamle Bybrobro, or the Old Town Bridge, provides breathtaking views of the city and is a great spot for photography.
Kristiansten Fortress
For panoramic views of Trondheim, visit Kristiansten Fortress. This historical landmark offers a unique perspective on the city and its surroundings.
Must-Visit Museums in Trondheim
Trondheim’s rich cultural heritage is showcased in its diverse array of museums, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s history and traditions. As you explore these institutions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Trondheim’s significance from the Middle Ages through the 17th century and into the modern era.
Ringve Museum
The Ringve Museum, Norway’s national museum of music and musical instruments, is located in an elegant 18th-century manor with breathtaking views of Trondheim and its fjord. With a collection of over 1,500 instruments from around the world, you can experience the rich history of music at this iconic site.
Rockheim
Rockheim, the national museum of popular music, is a modern landmark in Trondheim, offering an interactive journey through Norwegian pop and rock history. Housed in a striking building with an LED-illuminated “light box” perched atop a former grain warehouse, Rockheim is a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
Trøndelag Folk Museum
The Trøndelag Folk Museum is one of Norway’s largest outdoor museums, featuring 80 historic buildings from across the region, including the remarkable Haltdalen stave church from 1170. As you explore the museum, you’ll gain insight into rural Norwegian life through its authentic farmhouses, workshops, and town buildings.
Archbishop’s Palace Museum
Located adjacent to Nidaros Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace Museum houses Norway’s crown jewels and archaeological finds that tell the story of the cathedral’s construction and the powerful archbishops who once ruled from this site. As you explore the museum, you’ll uncover the 1,000-year history of the cathedral and its diocese.
These museums collectively offer a comprehensive understanding of Trondheim’s cultural significance, making them essential stops for anyone interested in Norwegian history and culture.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
Surrounded by fjords and forests, Trondheim is the perfect destination for those who love exploring the great outdoors. You can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and swimming in the summer to skiing and ice fishing in the winter.
Exploring Bymarka Forest
Bymarka Forest is a vast recreational area covering over 80 square kilometers, offering an extensive network of hiking trails in the summer and over 140km of groomed cross-country ski tracks in the winter. You can access the forest via the charming Gråkallbanen tram, which takes you to the heart of the forest. From there, you can explore the trails and enjoy the panoramic views from Gråkallen hill, which stands at 552m.
Swimming and Sunbathing at Korsvika Beach
During the summer months, Korsvika Beach becomes a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is sheltered, providing warmer waters than you might expect this far north. You can take a scenic coastal walk from the city center to Korsvika, enjoying the beautiful views of the fjord along the way.
Day Trip to Munkholmen Island
Munkholmen Island is a fascinating day trip destination, accessible by boat from May to September. The island has a rich history, having served as an execution place, monastery, prison, and fortress. You can explore the island and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding waters. Be sure to check the ferry schedules and book your tickets in advance.
Food, Drink, and Nightlife in Trondheim
From traditional Norwegian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants, Trondheim’s food scene is thriving. You’ll find lots of things to try, from local specialties to international flavors, all in a vibrant atmosphere that makes the city come alive.
Best Cafés in Bakklandet
In Bakklandet, you’ll discover charming cafes housed in historic wooden buildings. Enjoy excellent coffee and freshly baked goods while watching the world go by from cozy window seats or outdoor tables along the cobblestone streets.
Local Cuisine and Restaurants
For a special dining experience, places like Kalas & Canasta and Troll Restaurant serve innovative Norwegian cuisine with seasonal menus, often featuring local specialties like reindeer, fresh cod, and hand-picked berries and mushrooms from the surrounding forests.
Craft Beer and Nightlife
Trondheim has embraced the craft beer revolution with lots of microbreweries and specialized bars. Trondhjem Mikrobryggeri offers house-brewed beers in a historic setting, while Den Gode Nabo features a floating deck on the river during summer months.
Shopping and Local Crafts
Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from local crafts at Husfliden to vintage and second-hand shops scattered throughout the city center, offering unique souvenirs and gifts.
The city’s nightlife centers around Solsiden and Nedre Elvehavn areas, where converted warehouses now house restaurants, bars, and clubs, creating vibrant spaces where you can mingle with locals and experience Trondheim after dark.
Where to Stay in Trondheim
Your stay in Trondheim can be significantly enhanced by selecting the perfect hotel. The city offers a variety of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets.
Luxury Accommodations
For a luxurious experience, consider the Britannia Hotel, a historic property renovated to five-star standards, or the Scandic Bakklandet, which offers modern luxury with stunning views of the Nidelva River.
Mid-Range Options
Mid-range travelers can enjoy hotels like the Thon Hotel Trondheim and Best Western Chesterfield Hotel, which provide comfortable stays with amenities like free breakfast and easy access to shops and attractions in the city.
Budget-Friendly Choices
For those on a budget, options like the Trondheim Vandrerhjem (HI Hostel) and City Living Schøller Hotel offer affordable stays with convenient locations, allowing you to enjoy your trip without overspending.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Trondheim Visit
Trondheim, with its picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures, is a must-visit destination in Norway. You can explore Trondheim in a day or two, but spending three to four days allows for a more relaxed pace and day trips to surrounding attractions. Don’t miss the Sunday stroll along the river or sampling local delicacies at food markets. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Trondheim is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Norway.
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The above is subject to change.
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