visit norway trondheim

With its colourful warehouses, waterways and wooded hills, Norway's third-largest city is without doubt one of its most photogenic. Trondheim, the country's historic capital, is a pleasure to explore, with wide streets and a partly pedestrianised heart. Great cafes, restaurants and museums compete for attention, while Europe's northernmost Gothic cathedral doesn't need to try. Fishing boats putter around the harbour, gulls wheel and screech overhead, and beyond the city's outskirts there's a wealth of wilderness to explore.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Nidaros Domkirke

Nidaros Cathedral is Scandinavia's largest medieval building, and the northernmost Gothic structure in Europe. Outside, the ornately embellished, altar…

This terrific museum is devoted to pop and rock music, mainly Norwegian, from the 1950s until yesterday. It's a dockside temple to R&B, where a huge…

Archbishop's Palace

The 12th-century archbishop's residence (Erkebispegården), commissioned around 1160 and Scandinavia's oldest secular building, is beside the cathedral. In…

Stiftsgården

Scandinavia's largest wooden palace, the 140-room late-baroque Stiftsgården, was constructed as a private residence in the late 18th century, at the…

Sverresborg Trøndelag Folkemuseum

Three kilometres west of the centre, this folk museum is one of the best of its kind in Norway. The indoor exhibition, Livsbilder (Images of Life),…

Gamle Bybro

There's been a bridge here since 1681, connecting the city with the Kristiansten Fort and guarded at each end by a watch-house (although only one now…

Ringve Music Museum

The Ringve Museum is Norway's national museum for music and musical instruments. The Russian-born owner was a devoted collector of rare and antique…

Kristiansten Fort

For a bird's-eye view of the city, climb 10 minutes from the Gamle Bybro to Kristiansten Fort, built after Trondheim's great fire of 1681. During WWII the…

Latest stories from Trondheim

Jun 1, 2023 • 8 min read

Meet the women farmers and artisans behind the booming food scene in Trondheim, Norway.

Feb 21, 2017 • 6 min read

Aug 2, 2010 • 4 min read

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Welcome to historical beautiful located Trondheim

Sven-Erik Knoff / FotoKnoff /Visitnorway.com

• Map & transport

Trondheim is Norway`s third biggest city, but it is also a town including many traditions, and you will find great festivals and events year around.

Trondheim was Norway's capital operation between 1030 and 1217 but was then called the city of Nidaros. Whatever the name, the city has always played a key role in Norway`s  history, and the cathedral Nidaros has been a popular place of pilgrimage for almost 1,000 years. 

Explore Trondheim

Discover a unique perspective of the Trondheim and its treasures. Start in Trondheim centre and enjoy a short tram ride to discover wonderful views of Trondheim.  All local guides and tour operators are very friendly,  and it is very recommendable to use professional guides, which will help you safe and comfortable throughout the tour. 

Biking in Trondheim

Biking in Trondheim is a hit because the town and area invite to biking .  Explore the wild nature and bushcraft of Mid-Norway. 

Amazing views of the city

If you go to Lian Lake, you will have an amazing view of the city, fjord and surrounding nature. A great moment to capture a photo of Trondheim's landscape! What about starting a walk on the historic Nidaros Pilgrim's path, where you will reach wilderness by foot, pick edible plants to make a delicious wild tea and find out about the special nature that comes from this region.

Getting there

Find routes to this destination.

Coordinates

• Lattitude: 63.430515
• Longitude: 10.395053

See & Do in Fjordnorway

Hiking in Fjord Norway

Heritage & Culture

Scenic Tourist Routes

Spectacular Railways

Fun For Families

Top destinations in fjordnorway.

The Hardangerfjord

The Nordfjord

The Lysefjord

The Aurlandsfjord

Geiranger-Trollstigen

Best Hiking Destinations

The Pulpit Rock

Romsdalseggen

Best Fjord Tours

Top Highlights

Top Destinations

The Geirangerfjord

Loen Skylift

Spectacular Attractions in Fjord Norway

Heritage & Culture in Fjord Norway

Late Summer by the Norwegian Fjords

Nidaros Cathedral

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 2.6 By pilgrimage
• 3.2 By rail
• 3.3 By taxi
• 3.4 By boat
• 3.5 By foot
• 3.6 By bicycle
• 4.1 Architecture
• 4.2 Museums
• 5.1 Swimming
• 5.3 Winter sports
• 8.1 Shopping streets
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Alcohol
• 10.2 Coffee
• 11.1.1 At Trondheim Airport
• 11.1.2 Camping
• 11.1.3 Hostels
• 11.1.4 Hotels
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe
• 14.1 Day trips
• 14.2 Further away
• 14.3 Hitch-hiking

Trondheim , formerly Trondhjem or Nidaros , is an old city in central Norway . It is a key city in Norway, its skyline dominated by the lovely cathedral and its city life dominated by the university. Central Trondheim is beautifully inside a large river bend where the river meets the wide Trondheimsfjord.

Understand [ edit ]

Trondheim is the oldest of Norway's major cities, and its rich cultural heritage can still be traced in and around the city centre. It's a scenic city on the southern shore of the Trondheimsfjord, which is the third longest in Norway. Even if the size is modest, there is a lot going on in Trondheim. Music, arts, culture, alternative politics, nightlife and student life — all combine into making Trondheim one of the most exciting city centres of Northern Europe.

The city centre is roughly the area inside the meandering Nidelva. The marvellous Nidaros Cathedral , the second-largest church of Northern Europe and the only Gothic cathedral in Norway, towers over the city centre. Legend has it that it was built over the grave of St Olav, Norway's patron saint. Regarded as a national treasure, it has been the site of the coronations of Norway's kings. In 1958, Olav V chose to receive benediction there as did the current king, Harald V, in 1991. The cathedral has been under restoration since 1860 and as the only state church in Norway, obtains grants directly from the parliament through the state budget.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is the main technical university of Norway and contributes greatly to the city's social profile and economy. Out of Trondheim's 210,000 inhabitants (2020), 42,000 are students at NTNU (2019).

Melhus village near the mouth of Gaula river valley is part of wider Trondheim area.

History [ edit ]

The city celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 1997 but contrary to popular belief Trondheim was not so much of a centre for the Vikings as it was founded at the end of the Viking Age. However, it was the religious centre of northern Europe during the Middle Ages and a vital hub for North Atlantic trade, giving it plenty of characteristic mansions and harbour houses. From 1152 until the Protestant Reformation , Trondheim (or Nidaros as it was called) was the seat of the Archbishopric of Norway (present-day Norway plus Iceland, Orkney and Shetland). The ancient name Nidaros reads "mouth of river Nid". For centuries, Trondheim was the northernmost mercantile city in Europe, giving it a special "edge-of-the-world" feeling. This also resulted in a more outgoing international culture than many other Scandinavian cities at the time. The inhabitants like to call their city the historical, religious, and technological capital of Norway.

Climate [ edit ]

Comparable to Scotland , the climate is oceanic and Trondheim is warmed by the Gulf Stream in the winter. Therefore the winters are much milder than you would expect at 63° north — temperatures of over +10°C can be encountered well into October. There is snow in the winter, but the temperature is certainly more pleasant than, say, at the same latitude in Canada or even Finland . Don't expect Mediterranean temperatures in the summer, though. Being practically located at the Atlantic Ocean, strong winds are common; moreover, few days are free of rain, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket even in the summer.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

The following options are available for transfer to downtown Trondheim, listed from cheapest to most expensive. The cheapest and most convenient option is the train, as the ticket is also valid on buses and trams in the city for 1.5 hours after purchase (3 hours on weekdays after 6pm or weekends). The ticket does not need to be valid for the entire duration of the trip; as long as it is valid when you enter the bus or train, it will remain valid until you exit, even if it expires during the trip.

• Trains depart to Trondheim once per hour on weekdays, once every two hours on weekends. Corridor to railway station begins next to baggage belt 2. The train is more scenic than by bus, but far less frequent. Journey time to Trondheim Central Station is 35-40 min. Train may however be the best option for transfer to many other destinations such as Levanger , Verdal and Steinkjer . Long distance Regiontog towards Fauske and Bodø in Northern Norway pass the airport three times daily.
• Bus lines 70 and 311 regularly run to the city. The full list of routes is available here . The stop is called "Trondheim lufthavn". To find it, enter the parking garage, walk straight through to the other side (about 100 meters), exiting the opening on the lefthand side. Follow the road, bearing right, for about 130 meters, and you should see the stop on the other side of the street from a gas station. Travel time to the city center is about 1 hour.
• The AtB official app is available for Android and iOS and has English options.
• Send an SMS to 2027 with the text "VOKSEN"
• Tickets may also be purchased on board via cash or credit card, but only on trains and not on buses
• Tickets may be purchased from the small green and black ticket machines located on the floor above the train platforms.
• Værnes-Ekspressen is by far the most expensive option, although it stops directly in front of the baggage carousel, making it slightly more convenient. Check the schedule before buying a return ticket. Tickets cost, as of Sep 2023, kr 390/220 (student kr 270/150, child or senior kr 220/110). Prices are slightly cheaper if tickets are purchased in advance. Travel time to the city center is about 35-45 minutes.
• Taxi companies include Trøndertaxi , Norgestaxi and Stjørdal Taxi [dead link] . Many offer fixed price to Trondheim in shared or chartered taxi.

By train [ edit ]

63.4362 10.3991 2 Trondheim S ( Trondheim sentralstasjon ) is fairly small, and just a few minutes north of the city centre. The bus station is next door, and an elevated causeway connects the train and bus stations with the terminus for boats on the Trondheim fjord. Toilets and lockers are available for a fee. A kiosk is available in the terminal itself, while there is a decent bakery and restaurant on the causeway above the tracks. There is a supermarket five minutes away, towards the centre.

There are four daily trains between Oslo and Trondheim S on the Dovre line [dead link] . These are the quickest ground transport between the cities, and you may find cheap discount tickets on the Vy website.

There are no longer direct trains from Oslo on the Røros line , but there are two daily connections with Oslo, with changes in Røros and Hamar.

Three daily trains make their way southwards on the Nordlandsbanen [dead link] from Mosjøen and Mo i Rana , with two of them all the way from Bodø and Fauske. Fauske is the main hub for buses from the north, for instance from Lofoten . Incidentally, the night service passes Hell station just before midnight.

Local trains [dead link] between Trondheim and the airport, continuing to Steinkjer, depart every hour on weekdays, roughly every second hour on weekends. Trains from Oppdal and Røros depart a few times per day. These trains also call at local stations in Trondheim.

The Meråkerbanen [dead link] ( Nabotåget ) service runs twice daily from the city of Östersund and the ski resort Åre in Sweden, passing the border at Storlien . There are connections from Stockholm , Gothenburg and Malmö , and other cities in Sweden.

By car [ edit ]

The Norwegian north-south highway E6 passes Trondheim. Alternatively from Oslo, the road number 3 can be used. It is shorter and faster than E6, and less affected by snowstorms in winter, but E6 is more beautiful from a touristic point of view. The coastal highway E39 has its terminus at Klett, 10 km south of Trondheim. The eastbound E14 forks off from E6 near the airport. If driving to the city along the highways, be aware that there are automatic tolls on the highways both from north and south.

Parking in the city centre is easy, but expensive. Useful parking spots include the central station, the garage under the main square, the garage in Fjordgata, the Central Park garage, the garage in Sandgata (there are always empty spots here). Parking in Ila is free.

By bus [ edit ]

The Mørelinjen express, operated by Fram, runs down the coast towards Kristiansund , Molde and Ålesund .

Other express bus lines from Trondheim include the useful Bergen line, passing the fjord areas of western Norway on the way and connecting these with Trondheim. All the way to Bergen, it takes a whopping 14 hr.

By boat [ edit ]

If you have the time and money, you should definitely take the 63.4424 10.407 3 Coastal Steamer , Hurtigruten . It runs from Bergen to Trondheim, and on to Bodø , Tromsø , Hammerfest and finally Kirkenes , just on the Russian border. The trip from Bergen takes 36 hours and costs about kr 750 if you are a student (be sure to check for updated prices on their home page). This trip takes you through one of the most magnificent parts of coastal Norway, even popping by the famous Geiranger fjord during summer. Travelling north, Bodø is reached in 24 hr, while Tromsø takes 50 hr. All the way to Kirkenes takes another two days from Tromsø.

There is also a twice a day 63.4381 10.3974 4 catamaran passenger boat-service between Trondheim and Kristiansund .

By pilgrimage [ edit ]

As the religious centre for much of northern Europe, Trondheim was a pilgrimage destination. Some of the routes have been revived as the Nidaros Path or St. Olav's Way and can be used for real pilgrimage or just slow-tourism through countryside and beautiful landscapes, with local food and many cultural sights. There are several routes, among them:

• The Gudbrandsdalen path (643 km) from Oslo to Trondheim, the longest pilgrim route in Norway and the main road to Nidaros in medieval times. It goes through countryside with cultural sights as well as dramatic wilderness landscapes.
• The Østerdalen path from Värmland in Sweden through Trysil and Tynset , much of it through sparsely inhabited areas.
• The St. Olav path from Selånger outside Sundsvall on the coast of Sea of Bothnia.
• The Fjord Pilgrim route (Kystpilegrimsleia) from Rogaland , 1400 km through dramatic landscapes. Parts are suitable for bike and foot, parts for kayak and small boats.
• The St. Olav Waterway from Turku via the Archipelago Sea and Åland – partly by ferry or own vessel – connects to the established leg from Hudiksvall in Sweden.

Get around [ edit ]

If you want to find locations in Trondheim, try the Yellow Pages website . The maps have more detail than popular map websites, and are very useful if you've heard the name of a place, but don't know where it is.

Trondheim has a well developed bus network, covering nearly all of the city. Buses are operated by the company AtB . There are frequent departures during the day, less frequent during evenings. Within the zone Stor-Trondheim it costs kr 46 for single tickets, kr 23 for under 20 year olds, kr 138 for a day pass (kr 69 for under 20 year olds), and kr 322 for a 7-day pass (kr 130 for under 20 year olds), as of Feb 2024. Night bus service (running between 00:30 and 04:00 on weekends) is available at an extra cost. You can buy tickets in the AtB app (the one with a gray logo, the others are being deprecated), from the driver (see note below), at some convenience stores (Narvesen, 7-Eleven and Deli de Luca), by sending an SMS to 2027 with the message "VOKSEN", and ticket machines (accepting cash and card). Be aware that the ticket machines are not well maintained and may be unreliable. Tickets purchased prior to boarding the bus are cheaper than buying with cash from the driver. You can find online timetables and a map of the system .

Not all buses allow you to buy a ticket onboard, and it will be more expensive than the other options. In general, you can only buy tickets on the region buses (the blue ones), and on city buses departing from stops that are not served by metrobus lines. For example, if you travel from Lerkendal Gård using line 11, you can buy a ticket onboard. However, if you take line 11 from Hesthagen, you can not buy a ticket onboard, since Hesthagen is also serviced by metrobus lines 1 and 2. Finally, the green city buses are cash–only, and require you to pay the exact amount. For these reasons, use one of the options for prepaid tickets instead.

Make sure that your ticket is valid before entering the bus . There have been cases where passengers have been fined for entering the bus after purchasing a ticket that wasn't validated due to a lag or error in AtB's own system. Note that the rule is that you must have a valid ticket when entering . This means that as long as the ticket was valid the moment you entered the bus, it will still be valid even if it expires during the journey. This is useful for transfers or for quick trips.

Note that a separate ticket is technically required to bring a bicycle onboard (kr 23 as for Feb 2024), although this seems to be rarely enforced.

Do not buy a student ticket unless you are prepared to show proof of recent enrollment (e.g. paid semester fees, etc.). Ticket control is very strict about this policy and will give you a fine if they are not satisfied with the proof you offer them .

By rail [ edit ]

Gråkallbanen , the tram line operates from St. Olavs gate near the centre to Lian, up in the Bymarka forests. It's a quite scenic ride with good views of the city and surroundings both on the way up and down and well worth taking if you have an hour. It operates on the same fare schedule, so day passes are valid. The tram is the northernmost tram service in the world.

Trønderbanen , the local train runs between Støren and Steinkjer, and thus covers large parts of the county. Bus and tram tickets bought from AtB are valid on all trains within zone A.

By taxi [ edit ]

• Norgestaxi . Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. ( updated Aug 2020 )
• Jip . Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. ( updated Feb 2021 )

The resort island of Munkholmen, can be reached by boat from Ravnkloa every day from May to September, hourly departures. Make sure you don't miss the last boat home in the evening! A return ticket costs kr 80 for adults, kr 45 for children and kr 45 for strollers. Cash only.

By foot [ edit ]

Downtown is fairly compact and walkable. However many points of interest are several kilometers away and there are some steep hills in the south of the city. Unless you particularly enjoy walking, take some other means of transport there.

By bicycle [ edit ]

Getting around by bicycle is relatively popular. Electric bicycles are a common sight due to the number of hills in the city. There is a well connected bicycle network with major routes running along the fjord waterfront (near Brattørkaia and Skansen) as well as running along the river. If you desire to go further out in the city, there is a route toward Lade (east of city center) and a route running parallel to Elgeseter gate (south of city centre). Miljøpakken, the organization for regional sustainable transportation in Trondheim, maintains an updated map of the bicycle routes here .

There is a bicycle sharing system available from Trondheim Bysykkel . Bicycles and can rented and unlocked from stations throughout the city. The cost is kr 19 per 30 minutes or kr 429 for an unlimited or seasonal pass, as of Sep 2023.

If want to get up to the fortress along the steep Brubakken by bike you can use the locally famous and allegedly only bicycle lift in the world, "Trampe".

Note that bringing a bicycle onboard the bus requires a separate, additional bicycle ticket.

It is quite easy to find a parking spot downtown, but getting around by car itself can be frustrating with a lot of one-way streets and short green light periods for cars in the intersections.

See [ edit ]

Architecture [ edit ]

Stay close to the 63.4277 10.4015 1 Nidelva The river is a good place to take a break and relax 63.4251 10.3963 2 Marinen just behind the cathedral. Behind the cathedral there is a park with a children's playground. There are a lot of wooden mansions in and around the city centre. 63.43169 10.39498 3 Stiftsgaarden , the King's local residence, is the biggest together with the Singsaker summer hotel, but the small, wooden houses in parts of the city like 63.4291 10.4035 4 Bakklandet , 63.4306 10.3812 5 Hospitalsløkkan , 63.4295 10.3665 6 Ila and 63.4324 10.3637 7 Ilsvikøra are even more picturesque. Wooden harbour buildings can be seen along Kjøpmannsgata, Fjordgata and Sandgata. The best view is from the 63.4282 10.4016 8 Old Town Bridge across Nidelva river, leading from close to the cathedral to Bakklandet.

• 63.43049 10.39512 11 Torvet . The central square is the hub of Trondheim. Surrounded by shops and cafés, it is often used for events. There are also vendors with market stalls that sell tourist kitch and souvenirs, food, clothes, accessories and other items. Not to mention Trondheim Torg, which is one of the cities largest shopping malls- home to clothing stores, book stores, and restaurants and cafes. At the center stands a 18-meter high statue of King Olav Tryggvason, the founder of the city. It is also a functioning sundial. ( updated Feb 2024 )

Museums [ edit ]

• 63.4301 10.40094 18 Vitensentret ( Trondheim Science Center ), Kongens gate 1 , ☏ +47 73 59 61 23 . 10:00-16:00 (winter), 10:00-17:00 (summer) . A center for popularizing science, has lots of exhibits, of which many are interactive. Also has a gift store. It is home to one of Norway's largest planetariums which was opened in 2017. kr 90 (adult) .  

Other [ edit ]

• The small community of squatters in the district of 63.4396 10.4257 20 Reina (known informally as Svartlamon ), now an ecological experiment-part of the city. A different neighbourhood to walk around in, with very few shops, cafes and lots of graffiti.
• 63.42802 10.40327 21 Trampe , Brubakken ( just across the old town bridge ). The world's first and only bike lift. Free .  
• 63.43057 10.40109 22 Trondheim folkebibliotek , Kongens gate 2 . The city library is built upon the ruins of a medieval church and some archaeological objects are on display. The building, which was built as the original city hall in the 19th century, is a remnant of the past. Also, being a library you can also borrow and read books, and it's the site of various events.  

Do [ edit ]

• Check out Trondheim's bustling nightlife . During term time, the students make the nightlife rocking all week, and skyrocketing in weekends. Check the " Drink " section for more.

Swimming [ edit ]

• Have a swim in the modern 63.4404 10.3991 2 Pirbadet swimming pool, a magnificent water palace just by the sea, but definitely warmer! (Bus 46 or 52 to Pirterminalen, end station)
• Have a even cooler swim in the 63.4371 10.3964 3 Sjøbadet , a tiny little, but very cosy beach that consists of not much more than a wooden diving tower. It gains its uniqueness through its location, right to the left behind the central train station, in the area of harbour and industries. Don't worry, it's the cleanest water in the world!
• If the weather is nice and the fjord is warm, the best swimming spots are found east of the city. The 63.4453 10.421 4 Lade area contains a footpath along the fjord, which passes many of the best swimming spots. (Bus 3 to Strandveikaia, then walk along the industrially-looking road to the left... and you'll find beauty soon!) Also, the 63.4392 10.4731 5 Rotvoll/Ranheim area further out is brilliant for sunbathing and swimming. (Bus 6 to Rotvoll or longer, or local train to Rotvoll station)
• A newly opened venue, 63.441671 10.425129 6 Havet , also offers bathing in the fjord. There is also a bar, restaurant, concert stage, and saunas on site.

Hiking [ edit ]

Hiking and backpacking are popular activities in the areas around Trondheim. The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) is a good resource for planning hiking trips. The local branch of DNT is 63.431655 10.38477 1 Trondhjems Turistforening where you can ask for trip planning advice, reserve overnight cabins, and purchase camping equipment.

If you hike outside of the city, do not rely on Google or Apple maps. They have incomplete information on hiking paths. Instead, consider DNT's UT.no , OpenStreetMap , or paper maps from DNT.

Winter sports [ edit ]

• Go skiing at 63.268 10.389 7 Vassfjellet just outside Trondheim, in the season there's a bus service from Munkegata, and a Ski Shop with ski and snowboard rental service.
• Cross-country skiing is popular from November to April with hundreds of kilometres of tracks in 63.424 10.242 8 Bymarka and 63.3979 10.4684 9 Estenstadmarka . You can rent skis at 63.415 10.2557 10 Skistua in Bymarka, bus 10.

Events [ edit ]

If you want to know what's up right now on the local culture scene, consult the city's official event calendar trdevents .

• Every year in the end of July and the beginning of August, you can visit the St. Olav Festival . The festival is a celebration of Olav Haraldsson, who attempted to Christianise Norway. The festival's programme consists of both religious contributions, like masses for pilgrimages in the Nidaros cathedral and cultural festivities like concerts, Medieval plays, lectures, exhibitions and many other activities.
• Minimalen Short Film Fest . In March you may watch the best of Norwegian and Nordic short films, as well as the best of the international film scene.  

Learn [ edit ]

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim represents academic eminence in technology and the natural sciences as well as in other academic disciplines ranging from the social sciences, the arts, medicine, architecture to fine arts. Cross-disciplinary cooperation results in innovative breakthroughs and creative solutions with far-reaching social and economic impact.

Work [ edit ]

If you're looking for work check out the website of the governmental agency NAV . Tech industry boom; Yahoo's arrived & there's other start-ups. If you are truly impressive in this field they'll pay for your move and process your work visa. But you have to excel in your field; if there's a Norwegian that can do your job, they'll get him/her not you.

Buy [ edit ]

• 63.4341 10.4572 1 Nidar factory outlet , Bromstadveien 2 . Tu-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-15:00 . Chocolate anyone? Nidar, one of Norway's largest candy manufacturers have their factory here in Trondheim. In their factory outlet you can buy their products at discounted prices. Often there are some minor faults with the products, like missing best before date, but nothing to worry about, really.  

Shopping streets [ edit ]

• 63.4322 10.3976 2 Nordre gate . The central shopping street in Trondheim, with international stores as well as local shops. Clothes, food, jewellery, watches, electronics, and many other products can be found in this pedestrian-only street.  
• 63.43271 10.39781 3 Thomas Angells Gate . Crossing Nordre gate at approximately half-way, this is a slightly smaller street with record shops and different other stores.  
• 63.4345 10.3975 4 Fjordgata . Following the canal at the north of the city centre you have this lengthy street filled mainly with speciality stores and a decent selection of restaurants.  

Malls [ edit ]

• 63.43 10.3937 5 Trondheim Torg , Kongens g 11 . Smack in the middle of the city, this mall should be able to suit most of your needs. This mall especially has a few cafés.  
• 63.4336 10.3966 6 Byhaven , Olav Tryggvasons g 28 . A posh shopping mall with a majority of expensive stores.  
• 63.4353 10.412 7 Solsiden , Beddingen 10, Nedre Elvehavn . Solsiden translates directly to "Sun Side". It was realized and hurriedly transformed from an abandoned shipbuilding site into a shopping mall. It has a long stretch of restaurants/bars located by the old area where ships used to be launched. Walk across the pedestrian bridge from close to the train station, or get any eastbound bus from the centre.  
• 63.4434 10.4477 9 City Lade , Haakon VIIs gate 9 ( 3 km from the centre, bus 2 takes you there ). A large shopping mall at Lade with several restaurants, and an open play-area.  
• 63.4361 10.4571 10 Sirkus Shopping , Falkenborgvegen 1 ( take bus 10, 12 or 1 to the Strindheim stop ). A shopping centre east of the city centre with about 100 stores, restaurants and service facilities.  

Eat [ edit ]

Trondheim has food spots to suit every taste, though remember that eating out is generally very expensive, just like elsewhere in Norway.

Budget [ edit ]

• 63.4225 10.39522 1 Studentersamfundet , Elgeseter gate 1 . The red, round house that previously housed the Trondheim Interrail centre during summer and the student society otherwise. The café Edgar serves decent food at a low cost. To get to Edgar, go in through the glass doors and up one floor. Lyche (entrance to the south) serves good food (the burgers are the most popular dish, but they also serve soups, fancier dinner options, dessert) for just a few kroner more than a fast food chain. Just by the main entrance, Sesam makes kebabs and burgers. All southbound buses stop at Studentersamfundet. Everything is accessible by wheelchair.  
• SiT Kafe Kalvskinnet , Gunnerusgate 1 .  
• SiT Kafe Øya ( near St. Olav's Hospital ).  
• SiT Kafe Kjelhuset .  
• SiT Kafe Hangaren .  
• SiT Kafe Dragvoll .  
• Hot dogs: There are several hotdog stands and carts across the city. Several kiosks offer pølser (sausages) in a bun or lomper (a soft flour or potato-based flat bread) with or without condiments.
• Kebab shops . There are many kebab places in town. They are quite similar with regards to quality and price. The most authentic is Istanbul Döner Chef in Olav Tryggvasons gate 5.  
• 63.4222 10.3578 2 Tavern , Sverresborg Alle 11 ( next to the Trøndelag open air folk museum at Sverresborg; take bus 11 to Trøndelag Folkemuseum ). This 19th- and early 20th-century themed restaurant with decor from the 18th century serves a variety of central Norwegian food. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 63.397683 10.395672 3 Lager 11 , Sluppenvegen 11 , ☏ +47 477 68 200 . Th-Su . Street food hall and event center. Casual and inexpensive food available from 8 different food stalls. Choices range from Greek, Mexican, and Vietnamese food. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 63.438 10.4216 4 Ramp , Strandveien 25a ( in the squat area of Reina (Svartlamon) ). This laid-back, organic restaurant is a good place to relax and play board games. It offers good food at good prices. Any eastbound bus will take you to Strandveien stop.  
• 63.42738 10.40333 5 Bakklandet Skydsstation , Øvre Bakklandet 33 . The place to find one of Trondheim's best seafood collections, such as a herring buffet and baccalao (dried or salted cod). The restaurant is quite small with around ten small tables, so you might want to come a bit outside regular dining times to get a seat.  
• 63.423 10.4235 7 Kvilhaugen gård , Blussuvollsbakken 20 ( bus 60 to Kvilhaugen ). If you venture out of the centre to get your beer, make it here. Wonderful outdoor seating with views of most of Trondheim. Inside, it's an old farmhouse with plenty of atmosphere. It's also a restaurant with mains from kr 150-300 from the a la carte menu as well as four different 3-course menus starting from around kr 550 per person.  
• 63.43059 10.39814 8 Grafen , Kongens gate 8 ( near the market square ). A café and bar with a varied menu of foods. The restaurant reinvented itself into Grafen and now serves up a luxurious meditteratnean style offering rather than the more fast-food offering it previously had. It has dishes like steamed mussels. They have an extensive beer, wine and cocktail list (including local artisanal beers) and a quite popular place for just going out for a drink. It is best to come in the evening when the menu is larger.  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Fagn , Ørjaveita 9 ( In the city centre behind Byhaven shopping centre ). A gourmet restaurant which focuses on the produce of the Trøndelag region, it has one star in the Michelin guide in 2019. ( updated Mar 2019 )
• Credo , Ladeveien 9 ( Train to Lilleby or bus 2 to Ladeveien. ). This is one of the best restaurants in Trondheim, with a stellar wine list and a creative take on local produce. One star in the Michelin guide. ( updated Mar 2019 )
• 63.4338 10.39865 9 To Rom og Kjøkken ( Two rooms and a kitchen ), Carl Johans Gt. 5 ( Direct entry from the Carl Johan Gt. ). The name is inspired by a tale about a tram driver on Gråkallbanen. The restaurant opened in 2005 and features a three to five course menu starting at kr 545, and an a la carte menu with both fish and meat. Between opening at 16:00 and 18:00 they serve "Today's Bar special" for kr 169. The selection of dishes depend on the actual season and local production, since they try to use as much local production as possible. The wine selection is extensive with a big variety. They also focus on local hand brewed beer from Norway but also including international hand brewed beers. In the weekends they arrange cooking classes.  

Drink [ edit ]

Trondheim has a rocking nightlife. However, everything closes fairly early, meaning that there's a well developed culture for after-parties in homes. To find one, the northern end of Nordre gate is the best bet, or befriend someone working at the Studentersamfundet, that can take you into the private quarters of the house. They are only allowed one guest each.

Learn the customs if you want a good time: essential words are "Vorspiel", referring to the pre-parties people have before they go out, and "Nachspiel", the after-parties. Vorspiels are necessitated by the very high prices in bars and clubs: the idea is generally to drink as much as you can before going out, spend as little as possible while in the venue, and drink more afterwards.

The stringent regulations governing the sale of alcohol in Norway mean that you can only get drinks of strength 4,7% or less from regular shops. So, only beer. Also, they stop selling beer at 20:00 sharp on weekdays, 18:00 sharp on Saturdays and they don't sell it at all on Sundays. There is lots of alcohol-free beer too, and many people drink it if they are driving — if you see beer that seems cheaper than the rest, check the strength.

If you want wine or spirits, you'll need to find a Vinmonopolet , the state-run liquor stores. There are only a few in Trondheim, and they close early, 17:00 or 18:00 during the week and 15:00 on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays. The most central one can be found in Søndre gate, as well as in Trondheim Torg mall, Byhaven mall, Solsiden mall, Valentinlyst mall, City Lade mall and City Syd mall.

The cafe scene in Trondheim is the best developed in Norway, with tons of fine coffee-and-cake spots around. Most double as pubs during the night.

Alcohol [ edit ]

• 63.4224 10.3954 1 Studentersamfundet , Elgeseter gate 1 . A big, red, round temple to partying. Major concerts coincide with political meetings, discussions, wine tasting, disco, football matches and... you name it. You are certain to get lost in the mazes of this wonderful house. Fairly empty in summer and on weekdays, but on term time weekends it's good. Expect to pay around kr 30-60 in the door on weekends, more if there's a major concert going on. The place is run by approx. 1300 student volunteers who do everything from serving drinks, rigging concerts, sing in Samfundets choir, play in Samfundets symphony orchestra and hold political debates. Befriend anyone who works there, and try to gain access to their private quarters. Most volunteers are enthusiastic people that often are easy to befriend if you, i.e. a foreigner, show interest. The private quarters are secluded areas where the volunteers hang out after work, and is an even more elaborate maze with some 20 pubs that stay open all night (and day and night again.)  
• 63.43317 10.398 2 Bar Circus , Olav Tryggvasons gate 27 . Small, quite popular pub/venue and almost always very full - but that's not just because of the music or location, but because of the beer price which is cheap in Norwegian terms (kr 36 for 0.4L.)  
• 63.4279 10.40235 3 Den Gode Nabo , Øvre Bakklandet 66 . Just across the Old Town bridge and down a scary-looking staircase, this is a brown fisherman's pub in an old warehouse. As atmospheric as it gets, they have Trondheim's most lovely outdoor seating in summer. The place is divided between the "grown ups section" by the entrance, and the "student section" further in. Popular among students and all others and not too expensive if you prefer the regular brands. Furthermore, they have an exceptional range of beer and a friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always happy to suggest new things to try.  
• 63.43429 10.39684 4 DownTown , Nordre Gate 28 . Near the crossing of Nordre gate and Fjordgata, it is widely known among students due to its pianobar. Cheap beer during the week (kr 19 for 33cl) and a lot of international students, especially on Thursday. According to their home page the bar is closed for renovation as of September 2014.  

• 63.43389 10.4016 5 Cafe 3b , Brattørgata 3b . 3b is an institution in Trondheim. Leading on in the "big beer war" of the -90's, it was dirt cheap for years. Now it's more expensive, but it's still an enjoyable, black hole catering for rock and indie kids of every denomination imaginable. Hiphop kids have their own private dungeon down the corridor behind the bar in the basement.  
• 63.43419 10.40435 6 Fru Lundgreens , Kjøpmannsgata 50 . In the basement of the concert hall, Fru Lundgreens looks like the inside of a lung but has good, cheap beer and a brilliant jukebox. Crowd is rock. Pooltable in the back. Prices vary on time, but always good value. The food of the day is good if you need something with your beer.  
• 63.43342 10.39752 7 Carl Johan , Olav Tryggvasons gate 24 . The northernmost end of Nordre gate is the hub of Trondheims nightlife, with mainstream discos, sausage kiosks and lots of drunk, well-dressed people. Carl Johan is a straightforward pub with more relaxed ambience than most offerings in the area.  
• 63.4313 10.39284 8 Trondhjem Mikrobryggeriet , Prinsens gate 39 . A brewery pub offering a range of beer brewed in-house (about six kinds plus a seasonal special). Prices for a 0.5L about 50% higher than elsewhere, but the only place in town to offer an IPA and a bitter from tap - along with the other four. Substantial food is served, too.  
• 63.43398 10.39821 9 Lille London ( Little London ), Carl Johans gate 10 , ☏ +47 73 51 80 95 , [email protected] . M-Sa 11:00–02:00, Su 12:00–02:00 . A pub that caters to a wide variety of people. They show football games live, and the second story has a billiards room with three pool tables. During the weekends there is often live music in the second story.  
• 63.428426 10.402897 10 Antikvariatet , Nedre Bakklandet 4 . One of the most popular, yet laid-back bars in the city. Located in a historic wharf along Bakklandet and right around the corner from Gamle Bybru, they have moderately priced beer, as well as a selection of special brews. Often a good place to grab a cheap bite to eat if you get here early enough. This bar really captures the heart of Trøndersk community. You'll find a very diverse crowd: locals, travelers, younger people, older people. Make sure to check out the back: there is additional seating with the river right below you and the room is covered wall-to-wall with bookshelves filled with vintage books. There are often concerts, open mics, and other events here as well, usually free. ( updated Feb 2024 )

Coffee [ edit ]

• 63.42822 10.40317 11 Nedre Bakklandet 3
• 63.43081 10.39742 12 Nordregate 2
• 63.43341 10.39998 13 Olav Trygvassonsgate 14
• 63.43161 10.40761 14 Nedre Bakklandet 77
• 63.43026 10.39652 15 Hornemansgården ( Cafe Horneman ), Kongens gate 7 ( right in downtown overlooking the statue of the city's patron Olav Trygvasson and toward the Nidaros cathedral ). A cozy and calm old-fashioned café in a large yellow wooden building. Operated by the local association for the elderly, it's popular among the city's senior citizens.  

Sleep [ edit ]

At Trondheim Airport [ edit ]

If you have an early morning flight or a layover, it is possible to stay overnight in the airport. The arrival and departures halls outside of security remain open 24 hrs a day. It is not comfortable but it's warm and there are benches and outlets on the lower level next to the Starbucks. Additionally, there is free Wi-Fi in the building. Check in and security lines reopen typically around one hour before the first flight of the day. Be sure to have a valid flight ticket ready to present to any security guards.

Camping [ edit ]

There are several managed camp sites, some with huts. If you want to go free-camping, get the tram to the terminus at Lian and walk into the forest from there. Some people camp rough in the area around the fortifications of Kristiansten Festning. Do this at your own risk: it is a park. There is an unofficial law in Norway stating that nature is for everyone, you may camp out anywhere if you keep a distance of 300 m from homes/structures. It underscores Norwegians' deep love of the outdoors and their trust in people using but not abusing this precious resource. If you want to camp close to the city, it's allowed to camp behind the Studentersamfundet, under the administration of Trondheim InterRail Centre, during the summer months for a low fee. Contrary to its name, Trondheim Camping [1] is not a campground; it is an indoor mini-golf bar.

• 63.4502 10.2024 1 Flakk Camping , Flakk ferry terminal ( Bus 75 to Flakkråa, infrequent ). Close to the ferry terminal for the car ferry to Fosen.  
• 63.3302 10.3583 2 Sandmoen Bed & Breakfast , Sandmoflata 6 ( Bus 19 or 47 to Sandmoen ). This is a Bed and Breakfast that also has a space for camping. South of the city and frequently served by slo-o-ow bus. Shop, huts and all amenities.  
• 63.4407 10.638 3 Vikhammer Motell & Camping , Vikhammerløkka 2, Vikhammer ( local bus towards Stjørdal or local train to Vikhammer station, day pass not valid ). East of the centre near the fjord.  
• 63.434 10.71 4 Storsand Gård Camping ( local bus towards Stjørdal, fairly frequent, day pass not valid ). East of the centre and maybe the most picturesqure of the lot.  
• 63.3258 10.2129 5 Øysand Camping , Gamle Kongeveg 56, Melhus ( local buses towards Orkanger, frequent, day pass not valid ). South of the city near the Øysand beach.  

Hostels [ edit ]

• 63.4337 10.4241 6 Trondheim Hostel ( Trondheim Vandrerhjem ), Weidemannsvei 41 ( Bus 63 to Sigurd Bergs allé ), ☏ +47 73 87 44 50 , [email protected] . It is located on top of a hill, fairly close to the centre, Lademoen and the fortress. Clean, efficient and nice. Discount for students or pilgrims (with pilgrims passport). From kr 390 .  
• 63.43067 10.38921 7 Pensjonat Jarlen , Kongens gate 40 ( near the main square ), ☏ +47 73 51 32 18 , [email protected] . Slightly more expensive, but still good for Trondheim. Dorm kr 320, double kr 690 .  

Hotels [ edit ]

• 63.42417 10.41294 8 [dead link] Singsaker Sommerhotell , Rogertsgt. 1 , ☏ +47 73 89 31 00 , [email protected] . It is a lovely studenthome converted into a summer hotel while the students are home during the summer. It's located near to city center and the University. The standard is simple. The breakfast buffet is included. The hotel opens in the middle of June and closes in the middle of August (this may vary). Be early to book if you want a room with bathroom, although the common bathrooms are really nice too. Dorm kr 260, double kr 698-889 .  

• 63.43434 10.39993 9 Best Western Chesterfield Hotel , Søndre gate 26 , ☏ +47 73503750 . This hotel is a piece of England in the middle of Trondheim. It's within walking distance to bus- and railway station, shopping malls and museums. Buses to and from the airport (Værnesekspressen) stop right outside this hotel.  
• 63.43033 10.39294 10 Thon Hotel Trondheim , Kongens gate 15 . You will find the hotel in the middle of the historic district in Trondheim, only 50 metres from the town square. The airport shuttle bus and most of the public transportation stops close to the hotel. Fixed low prices; kr 695/895 single/double .  
• 63.434 10.39979 11 Thon Hotel Gildevangen , Søndre gate 22B . The hotel is situated in the middle of Trondheim, 300 metres walk from the train and bus station. Airport shuttle stops right outside the hotel from the airport.  
• 63.431753 10.398714 12 Hotell Britannia , Dronningens gate 5 , ☏ +47 73 800800 , [email protected] . With its 1890s façade, and a matching but modern interior is the most stylish hotel in the city. Its location in Dronningens gate 5 is in the middle of town. It has two restaurants, a number of bars, and modern but stylish rooms. There are also themed rooms, like rooms decorated by well-known Norwegian artists. Prices start at kr 1100/1300 and go a long way up.  
• 63.433563 10.405134 13 Radisson Blu Royal Garden Hotel, Trondheim , Kjopmannsgate 73 , ☏ +47 73 803000 , [email protected] . Modern palace of glass, brass and marble with 295 rooms. Centrally located, excellent communications, but a little soulless. Rooms from kr 1198/1298 .  
• 63.435666 10.406429 14 Rica Nidelven , Havnegata 1 , ☏ +47 73 568000 , [email protected] . Even more modern and located in the harbour, offers a very very good breakfast buffet.  
• 63.4387 10.401582 15 Clarion Hotel & Congress Trondheim , Brattørkaia 1 , ☏ +47 73 925500 . It opened in 2012, and has a beautiful view over the city from the Skybar in 9th floor. The Skybar is worth a visit, and you can go there to enjoy a cup of coffee without staying at the hotel.  
• 63.4115 10.4026 16 Scandic Lerkendal , Klæbuveien 127 , ☏ +47 2161 5100 , [email protected] . Opened in 2014, with a viewing room on the uppermost (21st) floor with great views of Trondheim and its surroundings. Rates include breakfast. The hotel also has a gym and several conference rooms, and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. kr 1200 .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Generally considered to be the sort of city where little old ladies can walk safely in dark alleys. It is also not terribly uncommon that regular people will go to great strides to give you back your wallet if you drop it, with cash and credit cards intact.

The only "danger" you might encounter are the occasional youths stumbling around in large groups on Friday/Saturdays. The same goes for Trondheim as anywhere else; leave drunk people alone and it's a good chance they'll leave you alone as well.

There are some beggars and rough people. Norway has an extensive social welfare system, and everyone is guaranteed a place to live and a minimum hand out from the government (for single person approx. kr 5000 a month). Beggars are therefore usually people whose economical difficulties are related to excessive use of drugs or alcohol. In the summer, you might also encounter foreigners who have travelled to Norway on the purpose of begging for money. Begging is not illegal in Norway.

Connect [ edit ]

Internet cafes are scarce as most people are connected at home. You will however find a few PCs at some museums and public buildings, reserved for visitors, and more at the public library (may be waiting time). Your accommodation will likely offer free Wi-Fi.

• Trondheim Public Library ( Trondheim folkebibliotek ), Peter Egges plass 1 , ☏ +47 72 54 75 00 . M–Th 09:00–19:00, F 09:00–16:00, Sa 09:00–15:00 . Free use of computers for 2 hours, free Wi-Fi.  
• Main Post Office , Dronningens gt. 10 .  
• The Railway Station has an electronic information kiosk about the city. It has a keyboard but the web browser has no address bar, so you can only click on links to other sites. But find your way to Google (it's possible, be creative), and you can type in the address of the website you want to visit into Google Search.
• NTNU University Library . Several libraries around on different NTNU compounds with some of them having PCs reserved for visitors, even though this is mainly for visitors of the university.  

Go next [ edit ]

The two main areas for those who are fond of hiking are Estenstadmarka and Bymarka. To get to Estenstadmarka , take for example bus #5 to Dragvoll. Bymarka you can reach by the Trondheim's only tram line — Gråkallbanen. Be sure to put on a pair of good boots: the terrains of Trøndelag tend to be very wet.

Day trips [ edit ]

• Øysand near Melhus is one of the best beaches close to Trondheim. Get the Orkanger-bound buses. You may also rent a car.
• Take the local train to Hell station and get a photo of yourself in the front of the cargo office ("Gods-Expedition"). If you can't be bothered going there, you can still buy a one-way ticket to Hell from Central Station... for that special someone.
• For alpine and cross-country skiing, there are two major ski resorts on the Swedish side of the border; Storlien is 100km from Trondheim, Åre about 150km.
• Røros (150km southeast) a world heritage listed old mining town.

Further away [ edit ]

• Kristiansund (200 km west) a city with interesting architecture next to the ocean. If you're with a car, why not continue along the Atlantic Road ( Atlanterhavsveien ) to Molde ; this is often listed as one of the world's most spectacular drives.
• Board a Hurtigruten ship; the southbound one goes to Bergen , the northbound one all the way to Kirkenes near the Russian border.
• Northwards there's more than a day's drive to the Lofoten archipelago, a little less to Vega (Norway) . South you can get to places like the scenic Geiranger fjord, Galdhøpiggen (Europe's highest mountain north of the Alps) and other amazing landscapes of mountains, fjords and glaciers. And, of course, the capital Oslo .
• You can of course also head across the border into Sweden, the nearest provinces being Jämtland County and Dalarna .

Hitch-hiking [ edit ]

Hitching a ride out of Trondheim can be difficult. The best spots require a bus ride at the start.

For south/south-westbound travel, the bus stop close to the Shell station at E6, just across the street from City Syd shopping mall, may be the best choice within city limits. Get bus 46 to City Syd and walk, or get the Orkanger/Fannrem-bound bus that stops right there. If you want to make it clear whether you are going the E6 (towards Oslo ) or the E39 (towards Molde / Ålesund ), you need to get the Orkanger/Fannrem-bound bus to Øysand (for E39) or the Støren-bound bus to Kvål (for E6). This may be sensible, as the traffic splits roughly in half at Klett/Leinstrand, where the two main roads meet. If you are lucky, a bus driver would drive you to the best available hiking spot free of charge (especially if you are from abroad).

For north/eastbound travel, get bus 7 or 36 to Travbanen stop. Sadly, there are no good hitching spots beyond the start of the highway. To avoid short runs, it may be wise to get a bus or train to Stjørdal (close to the airport), then hitch on the E6 or E14 depending on where you want to go. In Stjørdal, there are good spots at both roads close to the station.

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20+ Things to Do in Trondheim You Just Can’t Miss

Discover the local tips on the best things to do in Trondheim : as Norway’s third-largest city , home to 210,000 residents and 40,000 students, Trondheim radiates an open-minded spirit and boasts a rich history and lively culture. Nestled along the jagged western coast, just north of the famed southwestern fjords, is a perfect gateway to the less-explored central region of Norway and offers numerous intriguing things to do and one of the most dynamic and surprising culinary scenes in the country.

Trondheim is also a popular stop for the Hurtigruten , the iconic coastal express that winds its way from Bergen to Kirkenes , as well as for numerous cruise ships touring the area. This is why many visit it in just a few hours, but let me tell you, it’s well worth spending at least a few nights to explore its museums and attractions , its beautiful surroundings , and its welcoming atmosphere .

Once the capital of Norway, Trondheim combines vibrancy and modernity with a rich cultural heritage . Stroll through the alleys of its old town with its colorful waterfront houses to discover its fascinating past, among ancient cathedrals and merchant houses that tell stories of Vikings , medieval kings , and hardy fishermen .

What you’ll find in this guide to the Best Things to Do in Trondheim:

Trondheim: What to Know Before Going

Trondheim is one of the oldest cities in Norway and boasts a fascinating history and cultural heritage. Founded in the year 997 by Viking King Olaf I of Norway , it was initially known as Kaupangen , a name that was soon changed to Nidaros . It was here that the nation took root, and Nidaros served as the capital of Norway until 1217 , when Norway ended up uniting with Denmark and Sweden , forming a single country that would last many centuries. Consider that Norway only returned to being an independent state in 1905!

The most significant testament to its past is the imposing Nidaros Cathedral , a Gothic masterpiece erected in 1070 , which once served as a solemn venue for the coronation of Norwegian monarchs. Nestled along a tranquil fjord , on whose banks one of the most important ports of Central Norway is located, the city is today a primary hub for transport in the region and has gracefully evolved into a thriving, modern city.

It’s home to one of Norway’s premier universities, and its substantial student community makes it vibrant in any season . There’s always something going on in the city, from concerts and events to exhibitions. The city also stands proudly as one of the country’s primary centers for cutting-edge scientific and technological research , making it a hub for innovation and progress.

But Trondheim is not just about its illustrious past and promising future. It’s a vibrant, bustling city that offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. Its charming old town , with narrow streets and colorful houses, invites exploration. The serene Nidelva River winding through the city creates picturesque scenes, perfect for leisurely strolls. The fusion of history, culture, and modernity makes Trondheim a vibrant and enjoyable destination, perfect to explore in just a few days .

Best Things to Do in Trondheim

Most of the attractions and things to see in Trondheim are located in the city center , which is easily explored on foot. The city is quite compact, and several public transportation lines allow you to reach almost all the attractions in the surrounding area. For those arriving from the port or the train station , the city center and the riverside walk leading to the colorful houses of the Bakklandet district can be reached with an easy half-hour walk.

Nidaros Cathedral

The Nidaros Cathedral is one of Norway’s most significant churches and the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world . It was built in 1070 on the burial site of King Olaf II of Norway , who was killed during the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030. King Olaf II is renowned for introducing Christianity to Norway, which is why he is now considered the country’s patron saint .

Historically, the Nidaros Cathedral served as the burial site for Norwegian kings and the location for coronations , which took place here from the 1400s. The ceremony was only recently moved to Oslo , following Norway’s regained independence in the early 1900s. Over the centuries, the Nidaros Cathedral has increasingly become one of the primary pilgrimage destinations in Northern Europe, still marking the endpoint of the St. Olav’s Way (Pilegrimsleden) , also known as the Old Kings’ Road .

Despite suffering damage from devastating fires on multiple occasions, it remains one of Norway’s most important and captivating churches —a monumental stone church that stands as a result of centuries of restoration and reconstruction efforts, resulting in a true masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Its distinctive feature is the imposing facade adorned with sculptures of saints and kings flanking a large rose window , along with smaller sculptures such as masks, angels, and various animals, including bears, donkeys, elephants, roosters, and bees.

While the interiors are often underestimated, they are worth a visit. Despite the dimly lit and somber appearance, the cathedral maintains a majestic and solemn atmosphere with spacious naves, high ceilings, and numerous stained glass windows along the walls. The oldest part is the octagon , situated at the original location of the early church altar, which has remained intact for over a millennium.

The cathedral also houses some precious treasures, including the remains of Saint Olav and a Baroque organ from 1738 . A narrow and steep staircase leads to the underground crypts , which host a collection of ancient marble tombstones. During the summer months, visitors can also climb the 172 steps—somewhat dark and narrow—leading to the top of the tower , providing a nice view of the city.

Archbishop’s Palace Museum

Trondheim is also home to the Crown Regalia , the crown jewels of Norway. This fact alone underscores Trondheim’s importance to national history. When visiting the Nidaros Cathedral , you should not miss a visit to the Archbishop’s Palace , located right next door and dating back to the 12th century. An imposing masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture and considered one of the largest medieval stone structures in Scandinavia, the Archbishop’s Palace served for hundreds of years as the headquarters, residence, and administrative center of the Archbishop of Nidaros .

The Archbishop held administrative, religious, and military command over the entire region, and had his own army and currency. The palace’s role shifted dramatically following the 16th-century Reformation , which marked Norway’s conversion to Lutheranism. The last Norwegian archbishop, Olav Engelbrektsson , made a valiant attempt to resist and defend the palace but ultimately fled into exile, leaving the property to fall into the hands of the king. It was during this period that the ancient archbishop’s castle transformed into a residential palace.

In 1983, a devastating fire destroyed two of the grand buildings of the Archbishop’s Palace . These were later rebuilt and today, they house the the Archbishop’s Palace Museum and the intriguing Army and Resistance Museums , dedicated to the region’s military history from the Viking era to World War II. The west wing of the palace, however, holds the collection’s highlight – the royal insignia .

Here you can see the jewels that belonged to the kings of Norway, including the royal scepter and the 200-year-old Crown of Norway , resplendent with precious gems and topped by an amethyst cross. The museum also showcases a collection of archaeological artifacts from the Nidaros Cathedral , with an exhibition illustrating its evolution through the centuries. Recent excavations have also unearthed the remains of the ancient mint , now the focus of a small dedicated exhibition.

Undoubtedly, the most popular thing to do in Trondheim is a stroll through Bakklandet , one of the city’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Its picturesque and colorful houses are probably the city’s most recognized picture, particularly the Nidelva Waterfront with its evocative colored waterfront houses.

Bakklandet is located on the east side of the Nidelva River , between Bakke Bridge and the Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro) . The neighborhood’s construction dates back to the early 17th century and was originally a working-class area, where living conditions were mostly poor. The residents here were craftsmen, small traders, and laborers.

Over time, it was repeatedly damaged by various fires that devastated the city, and two Swedish sieges tested its existence, but the neighborhood was always rebuilt. Despite being considered a symbol of the city today, in 1965 the city administration wanted to demolish it to build a four-lane highway in the heart of the city center. This sparked widespread protests from residents, so the project was shelved and never proposed again.

Today, Bakklandet is effectively the historic center of Trondheim , consisting of a compact core of old houses in a typical traditional style. Explore it on foot, strolling through its cobblestone streets , lined with small shops, craft workshops, restaurants, and cafes. The most beautiful view is between Bakke Bridge and the Old Town Bridge : along the east side of the Nidelva River you can see the heart of Bakklandet , consisting of a series of painted wooden warehouses dating back to the 17th century.

Here, you might want to stop at one of its best traditional restaurants and bars , such as Baklandet Skydsstation , known for its regional cuisine menu and over 350 varieties of akvavit to try, housed in a well-preserved 18th-century historic building. It’s worth stopping for its calm and relaxed atmosphere, good reindeer stews, and fish soups. A great alternative is the nearby Kalas og Canasta , which offers an excellent seasonal menu focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Among the most renowned cafes and pubs are Antikvariatet , popular for its cozy atmosphere, with books, candles, and live music, and also boasts a decent selection of draft and bottled beers. Locals also love the nearby Den Gode Nabo , another traditional bar with wooden furnishings, which serves good draft beers on an outdoor terrace overlooking the river during the beautiful seasons. For a sweet breakfast, artisan pastries, or a hot coffee, go to Kaffebrenneriet , a very popular cafe among locals, located right on the main street, called Nedre Baklandet .

Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge)

The Gamle Bybro , also known as the Old Town Bridge , is arguably the most iconic place to visit in Trondheim. It offers one of the finest views of the Nidelva River , the charmingly colorful houses of Bakklandet , and a glimpse of the Trondheim Fjord in the distance. This ancient and picturesque bridge spans the Nidelva River right in the Bakklandet neighborhood.

Constructed in 1681 by the military engineer Johan Caspar von Cicignon , the Gamle Bybro played a crucial role during the reconstruction of Trondheim after the devastating fire of the same year. Originally made of wood, the bridge served as a guarded city gate until 1816. At each end of the bridge stood a toll booth and a guardhouse . Today, only one of the access houses remains visible—the one on the western end.

The current appearance of the Gamle Bybro dates back to the 19th century, thanks to the work of the city engineer Carl Adolf Dahl . Locals affectionately refer to it as the “Lykkens Portal” or “Gate of Happiness” , inspired by the lyrics of the popular Norwegian waltz titled “Nidelven stille og vakker du er” or (“Nidelven, quiet and beautiful you are”) , by singer and composer Kristian Oskar Hoddø . According to tradition, Hoddø composed this waltz while standing at the Gamle Bybro one night in late April 1940. He was a member of the Norwegian resistance movement against the Nazi occupation and was executed in Trondheim on November 17, 1943, along with eight other resistance fighters.

Torvet (Trondheim Town Square)

Torvet is Trondheim’s main square and serves as a focal point for locals. Dating back to 1681, the square underwent a complete renovation in 2010. At its center stands the statue of Olav Tryggvason , Norway’s first king and the city’s founder. Interestingly, the statue doubles as a sundial , with its column casting shadows upon the mosaic of cobblestones below.

The square is surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants . At the southern end, you can often find various stalls selling fresh local produce , flowers, and souvenirs. Benches, tables with chairs, trees, and 25 flowerpots adorn the square, some featuring angular sculptures. Try to find the one that depicts Super Mario and Donkey Kong !

The square also hosts several events throughout the year. One of the most important is the Trøndelag Food Festival , one of the most important local food festival in Europe. It takes place in the summer, in the early days of August, when the square and the city fill up with over 200 food stalls where you can taste the best regional food, from the Fosen peninsula’s mussels to the reindeer from the Røros plateau.

And if you visit Trondheim during the Christmas season , don’t miss the wonderful Trondheim Christmas Markets in Torvet . For the occasion, the square fills up with stalls selling delicious local specialties, sweets, and handicrafts. Children will be amazed by the many rides and attractions that enliven the Christmas markets.

Kristiansten Fortress

The  Kristiansten Fortress , perched on a hill to the east of the city, offers a magnificent view of Trondheim and its surroundings, the fjord, and the mountains. It was erected at the end of the 17th century , designed by Johan Caspar von Cicignon , the same engineer who oversaw most of the reconstruction following the fire of 1681.

This fortress was one of the city’s main defensive structures and played a crucial role, especially during the Swedish siege in 1718. However, one of the most dramatic chapters in its history occurred during World War II when the Nazis used it as a prison and execution site for members of the Norwegian resistance. After the war ended, the roles reversed, and it became the execution site for Nazi spies , traitors , and war criminals , including the infamous Henry Rinnan , a Norwegian agent for the Gestapo, who was executed here on February 1, 1947.

Today, it houses a small museum that provides an overview of the history of the Kristiansten Fortress and the events related to the Nazi occupation, through artifacts and informative panels. Visitors can see what were once used as cells for prisoners , and then stroll in the extensive surrounding park, where cannons and other historical objects are displayed. Admission is free.

Sverresborg Trøndelag Folkemuseum

Nestled near the ruins of Sverresborg Castle , the first Norwegian medieval castle built by King Sverre Sigurdsson , who reigned from 1177 to 1202, the Trøndelag Folk Museum stands as one of Norway’s most captivating open-air ethnographic museums . This museum, established in 1909 by a group of enthusiasts, was created to preserve the history and culture of the Norwegian people and the native Sami through a collection of buildings and objects characteristic of the area.

The museum, a village in its own right, is composed of over 80 historic wooden houses that once graced the historic center of Trondheim and the surrounding region, known as Trøndelag . A visit to the museum transports you to a different era, as you wander through three thematic sections. The first, the Old Town , showcases the charming wooden buildings that once stood in the heart of Trondheim, including the dentist’s house, the post office, the old grocery store, and the shoemaker’s workshop.

Next, you can explore the Rural Village , home to the museum’s crown jewel: the Haltdalen Stave Church , a stunning wooden church dating back to 1170. Here, you can also see an old school, some farms, and old wooden houses, offering a glimpse into the culture of the local population, fishing practices, and the nomadic life of the Sami , the people of Lapland . Lastly, the 12th-century castle ruins provide a fascinating insight into King Sverre’s rise to power and offer an unparalleled view of Trondheim and the fjord.

Located just outside the city center of Trondheim, the Trøndelag Folk Museum is easily accessible for travelers by car, with a parking lot conveniently located right in front of the museum entrance. Alternatively, bus n. 11 from the city center heading to Stavset will drop you off at the Trøndelag Folkemuseum stop.

Ringve Museum

If you have a specific passion for the history of musical instruments , then you shouldn’t miss out on the Ringve Museum , which is undoubtedly among the most fascinating of its kind. Located on the Lade Peninsula , it is entirely dedicated to Norwegian and European music, ranging from classical musical instruments to the latest sound and lighting technology.

Housed in an 18th-century manor overlooking the city and the fjord, the museum was once owned by the Bachke family, known for spending all their money collecting musical instruments from around the world. Inside the manor, their rich collection is on display, boasting over 2,000 ancient musical instruments . The interiors and furnishings of the house provide a backdrop to the exhibition, which is spread across multiple rooms named after illustrious musicians and singers, such as the Mozart, Chopin, or Beethoven.

Here, you’ll find 16th-century violins , ancient pianos, organs, harpsichords, and percussion instruments belonging to ancient African tribes. However, the museum is worth a visit even just to see the wonderful historic estate , surrounded by a splendid botanical garden with over 2,000 species of plants and trees.

Trondheim Kunstmuseum and The National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design

Near the Nidaros Cathedral , art enthusiasts can explore two of Trondheim’s finest museums: the Trondheim Kunstmuseum and the National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design . The Trondheim Kunstmuseum , also known as the Trondheim Art Museum , showcases numerous permanent and temporary exhibitions, boasting a rich collection of artworks by Norwegian painters from the 19th and 20th centuries.

On the first floor, visitors will encounter renowned figures of Norwegian art, such as Harald Sohlberg with “Night” (Røros Church) and Peder Balke with “North Cape” . The second floor features contemporary Norwegian and international artists.

On the other hand, the National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design offers a captivating exploration of local art and craftsmanship. Established in 1893, it houses an impressive array of local craftsmanship , Norwegian silverware and glassware from the 16th and 17th centuries, Art Nouveau furnishings, and some of the finest examples of contemporary Scandinavian design.

One of the most unusual things to do in Trondheim is to visit Rockheim , a modern and eclectic museum dedicated entirely to pop and rock music and located on Brattørkaia , near the harbor. The museum, which is housed in a transformed early 1900s barn, now a colorful masterpiece of modern architecture, offers engaging permanent exhibitions featuring multimedia and interactive installations that trace the history of Norwegian music from the 1950s to the present day.

The centerpiece of the museum is “The Time Tunnel” : this expansive exhibition, spread over 1320 square meters, chronicles the evolution of Norwegian music and culture from the emerging youth culture of the 1950s to the contemporary music scene. The exhibition also provides interactive audio, images, and videos for an immersive experience. Another highlight of Rockheim is the “Hall of Fame” , which honors artists who have significantly contributed to the development and popularization of Norwegian music. This section allows you to delve into the lives of these artists through unique content such as videos, images, biographies, and artifacts.

In addition to its permanent exhibitions, Rockheim also hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of music history and contemporary culture. If you’re traveling with children, a visit to Rockheim could be a fantastic activity. The museum offers interactive experiences such as playing the electric guitar like a rock star, learning to use turntables like a professional hip-hop DJ, or even controlling the world’s largest midi controller to create electronic music in a fun and intuitive way.

Trondheim Science Museum

The Trondheim Science Museum (Vitensenteret i Trondheim) is one of our favorites in Trondheim. Whether it’s because of our scientific background or our occasional desire to relive our childhood, this museum is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re traveling with children. In fact, we would rank it among the best things to do in Trondheim with kids !

This museum, located just a short walk from the train station and city center, offers the opportunity to learn many interesting things about the human body , physics , chemistry , and science in general, through exciting activities, experiments, and interactive installations for the whole family.

Here, you will find Norway’s first and only 3D planetarium and 360-degree cinema , interactive rooms with films and multimedia installations. But the best part is the laboratories where both adults and children can have fun with experiments. There are chemistry and biology labs , as well as rooms where you can experiment with robots . Also, don’t forget to check out the museum shop, where they sell experiment kits , so children can continue to play and learn about science at home.

Munkholmen , also known as Monk’s Island , is a fortified island steeped in history, nestled in the Trondheim Fjord near the mouth of the Nidelva River . It was once an execution site during the Viking era, gaining a notorious reputation. In the 11th century, it became home to one of the first Benedictine monasteries in the Scandinavian countries . The island underwent further transformations in the 17th century when it was converted into a fortress and prison . During World War II , it served as a German defensive site, with anti-aircraft guns positioned to protect their Dora Submarine Base in Trondheim.

Today, Munkholmen has evolved into a popular summer bathing spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can still see remnants of its past, including the well-preserved round tower from the former Benedictine abbey and sections of the ancient defensive walls.

The island offers guided tours in English and Norwegian, allowing visitors to explore the old fort , the prisons , and the remains of the monastery . Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the island. Munkholmen also hosts a small bar that serves a variety of food and beverages. From May to September, regular boat services depart every hour from Munkegata 70 in Trondheim. Check the schedule here .

Solsiden District

Solsiden , a small and vibrant neighborhood nestled in the Nedre Elvehavn district, is just a short stroll from the city center and adjacent to the marina near Blomsterbrua , the Flower Bridge . Aptly named “the sunny side” in Norwegian, Solsiden is renowned for its lively ambiance and spirited character. This neighborhood, emerged from the remnants of an old shipyard , exemplifies the successful architectural restoration and transformation of a previously deteriorated area.

As you wander through its streets, which essentially form an open-air shopping center , you can soak in the post-industrial vibe accentuated by contemporary architecture. Solsiden’s popularity stems from its reputation as a prime spot for nightlife and social gatherings. It’s a favored destination for both locals and tourists, boasting a plethora of restaurants and bars . Additionally, Solsiden is home to a large, modern shopping center teeming with a variety of shops and retail opportunities.

One of the main attractions of Solsiden is the marina’s waterfront , speckled with restaurants and bars featuring outdoor terraces. These spots are perfect for basking in the sun with friends while savoring delectable food. The area offers a range of pizzerias, bars, and restaurants serving international cuisine. Local favorites include Una Pizzeria , Olivia Restaurant , and Héctor Food & Fiesta , known for its Mexican-inspired dishes. For a casual night out, consider Søstrene Karlsen , San Sebastian , Sot Bar & Burger Solsiden , Café Løkka , and Cowsea .

During winter, the dock of the old shipyard transforms into a floodlit ice-skating rink . In contrast, summer sees it morph into a concert and festival stage , attracting both local and international music stars. The repurposed pump house, now known as Dokkhuset , serves as a modern venue hosting local and international artists and musicians. Managed by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology , it’s also an ideal spot to partake in the Norwegian tradition of utepils – outdoor beer drinking – on a sunny day.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Trondheim Kunstmuseum Gråmølna , a branch of the Trondheim Art Museum . Housed in a renovated mill dating back to 1840, this quaint museum showcases both permanent and temporary exhibitions by local artists.

Tyholttårnet

Tyholttårnet is the iconic tower that defines the skyline of Trondheim. This radio tower , located just outside the city center, was erected in 1985 and stands at 124 meters tall , making it the tallest building in Norway . At the top, about 70 meters high, there is an observation platform and on the upper floor is the revolving restaurant Egon Tårnet , which completes a full rotation every hour, offering a diverse menu ranging from meat and fish to vegetarian options.

Visitors can ascend to the observation deck free of charge to admire the cityscape, or choose to dine at the restaurant while enjoying the view. Located approximately 2.5 km from the city center, the tower is easily accessible. You can take tram 22 from Prinsens Gate , which runs parallel to the back of Torvet , and alight at the Strinda vgs stop, situated at the base of the tower.

Certainly, one of the most unique attractions in Trondheim is the CycloCable , the only ski lift in the world designed for cyclists. Trondheim, a city that embraces cycling, introduced this ingenious system in 1993 to assist cyclists with the challenging 20% gradient climb near the Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro) in Bakklandet . The current version of the CycloCable is an enhancement of the original design, the brainchild of Jarle Wanvik , a local resident who sought a solution to the exhausting uphill commute to work. This innovative system underscores Trondheim’s commitment to promoting a cycling-friendly environment.

Stiftsgarden

Nestled in the heart of Trondheim, the elegant Stiftsgården villa stands as a splendid example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. Its bright yellow hue makes it easily recognizable, and it currently serves as the official residence of the Norwegian Royal Family during their visits to Trondheim.

Constructed in 1778, Stiftsgården was originally the private residence of Cecilie Christine Schøller , a wealthy Norwegian socialite, landowner, and entrepreneur. The residence, designed by General G.F. von Krogh , showcases the Rococo style with Baroque details. Although it had been hosting royals since the 1800s, it only became state property in the early 1900s.

Stiftsgården is one of Europe’s most imposing wooden structures and a prime example of Norwegian architecture. It boasts over 100 rooms , each richly decorated. Visitors can explore the villa by participating in one of the guided tours , which are typically available from June to August . These 45-minute tours offer glimpses into some of the palace’s rooms, such as the lavishly decorated dining room, while the guide narrates the building’s history. You can check schedules and tickets here , noting that they become available as the summer season approaches.

Trondheim Maritime Museum

The Trondheim Maritime Museum , housed in one of the city’s oldest brick buildings, a former 18th-century prison, pays homage to Trondheim’s rich seafaring and commercial history , tracing the evolution of navigation from the 17th century to the present day. The exhibition embarks on a journey starting with the era of sail navigation , then transitions to the advent of steam navigation —a revolutionary shift that profoundly influenced maritime activities and trade.

The narrative continues with a section dedicated to the sailors’ life aboard ships , marked by strenuous labor, long working hours, harsh living conditions, and often substandard food. The exhibit further explores Trondheim’s naval industry during this period, highlighting the city’s role as a significant shipbuilding and maintenance hub, and its exponential growth as it emerged as a crucial trading center.

The museum showcases a diverse collection that includes models of sailing ships and steamboats of various sizes, figureheads, onboard instruments, and a range of photos and paintings related to navigation. It also houses a library filled with books on maritime history and ships.

The second floor offers an array of engaging activities for children . Here, a ship’s deck has been meticulously recreated, complete with sound and light effects. Children can learn to tie various knots, draw, solve puzzles, search for a secret room, or listen to the intriguing tales of Sivert’s family, the ship’s mouse. The museum is situated along the banks of the Nidelva River , 800 meters from the city center and can be easily reached with a brief 10-minute walk.

If you’re spending some time in Trondheim, you might want to consider spending a relaxing day at Pirbadet , the l argest indoor water park in Norway . This water park is a hit among families and serves as an excellent retreat on rainy days. It features various children’s pools, diving towers, water slides, wave pools, water climbing walls, sports pools, and a large heated outdoor pool. Additionally, it boasts a lovely wellness center complete with hot tubs and saunas . It’s a place where fun and relaxation go hand in hand.

Ladestien Trail

The Ladestien is an 8 km hiking trail meandering along the Trondheim Fjord on the Lade Peninsula . It offers a journey through panoramic promontories, pristine nature, and lush forests. With an elevation change of about 130 meters, the trail is relatively easy and requires no significant physical exertion. It typically takes around 2-3 hours to traverse the entire trail. The trail commences at the end of Ormen Langes Vei ( map ) on the peninsula’s western side and concludes on the opposite side at Rotvoll ( map ).

Along the way, you’ll encounter the “Flytende, flyvende” monument, a tribute to Leif Erikson , who is believed to be the first European to land on the American continent around 1000 BC, nearly five centuries before Christopher Columbus. The trail descends towards Korsvika , one of Trondheim’s most renowned bathing beaches, offering a stunning view of the fjord. You’ll also pass a series of old German bunkers from the WWII and the old Lade pier, which served as a military port during World War II , as well as numerous fjord inlets, pebble beaches, caves, ancient villages, and farms.

Bus 20 serves the start and end points of the trail and also provides a connection to the center of Trondheim. To reach the starting point at Ormen Langes Vei you can take bus 20 at Prinsens Gate , alight at Strandveikaia , proceed along Ormen Langes Vei , and walk about 800 meters to the trailhead. Alternatively, you can commence the route at Korsvika by taking the same bus but alighting at Krutthusbakken , which is just 100 meters from the beach.

For the return journey from Rotvoll , you can walk about 1 km to Ranheimsvegen and take bus 20 back to the city center. If you’re driving, you can take bus 20 back to the starting point after completing the trail. Alternatively, the trail is only a 3.5 km walk directly from the city center. Here the trail map .

Skiing at Fjellseter Gråkallen

Trondheim is also a popular skiing destination and is home to Mount Fjellseter , located just a few kilometers away. Despite its modest height of 367 meters , it provides an ideal setting for a day of skiing fun. The mountain houses a well-furnished ski resort and even features a ski jump . During the summer , the area transforms into a hiker’s paradise. Hikers can embark on leisurely treks to the summit of Gråkallen , standing at 555 meters, and be rewarded with a stunning view of the Trondheim Fjord .

While the most convenient way to reach the location is by car, public transportation is also an option. If you’re relying on the latter, you can take bus 26 from Kongens gate , near Torvet , and alight at Fjellseterveien , the starting point of the main hiking trails .

Best Places to Eat in Trondheim

Experiencing the vibrant food scene is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Trondheim . The city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants . Among them is FAGN , renowned for its exceptional contemporary culinary creations. It offers an intriguing tasting menu that starts at NOK 1600. Nestled within the elegant Britannia Hotel is Speilsalen , yet another Michelin-starred establishment. It provides an exceptional fine dining experience, offering tasting menus (starting from NOK 2250), a selection of the finest champagnes, and a prestigious caviar bar.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience , To Rom og Kjøkken is a great choice. This restaurant serves delicious Scandinavian specialties, all made with the freshest local, organic ingredients. Bula Neobistro is another popular spot among locals. This friendly restaurant serves fantastic menus inspired by international cuisine, all prepared with high-quality, fresh local ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a good drink and want to explore the city’s vibrant drinking scene , you might want to check out our guide to the best Bars in Trondheim . It features a selection of our favorite pubs, local bars, and breweries.

How to Get to Trondheim

Trondheim is easily reachable from Bergen , Oslo , and Bodø , and is a favored stop for cruise travelers. Many visitors opt to explore it during a breathtaking road trip through the Norwegian Fjords , or as a pit stop on a train journey traversing the railway that spans across Central Norway .

Getting to Trondheim by Car

Traveling by car is undoubtedly one of the best ways to reach Trondheim and take in the stunning scenery of the Trondheim Fjords . You can rent a car in one of Norway’s major cities and reach Trondheim via the Norwegian North-South Highway E6 or the Coastal Highway E39 to Klett , and from there, continue on the E6 to Trondheim . You can find the best car rental deals on Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com , which allow you to view the best real-time prices from reliable car rental companies .

For a more scenic route , consider driving from Oslo to Trondheim on the Norwegian National Road 3 (Rv3) , also known as “The Green Shortcut” .

Getting to Trondheim by Plane

Located just 19 km from the heart of Trondheim, Trondheim Airport , also known as Trondheim Værnes Airport , provides excellent connectivity to the city center. With both express trains and buses at your disposal, you can expect convenient and swift transportation options.

Serving as a crucial hub for both international and domestic flights , this airport is an ideal gateway to Trondheim. It is often one of the quickest and sometimes the most cost-effective means of reaching Trondheim from major cities such as Bergen , Oslo , and Tromsø .

Getting to Trondheim by the Hurtigruten coastal express

The legendary coastal express Hurtigruten makes daily stops at Trondheim , both on its northbound and southbound routes. The ship docks in port for approximately 3 hours , providing enough time for a brief exploration of the city. For travelers wishing to fully experience Trondheim , purchasing a port-to-port ticket is advisable. This allows for a longer stay of a day or two in the city before boarding one of the subsequent ships.

Getting to Trondheim by Train

Trondheim is served by the railway line that connects Oslo with Bodø . The train station is conveniently located within walking distance from both the port and the city center, making it a practical and cost-efficient solution for tourists and business travelers alike. There are daily trains to and from Oslo (a journey of about 7 hours) and to and from Bodø (a journey of about 10 hours). However, there are no direct connections to Bergen .

Getting to Trondheim by Bus

Trondheim can also be reached by long bus trips from Oslo , Bodø , Ålesund , and from inland towns such as Stryn and Otta . However, there are no direct buses from Bergen .

Tips for your trip to  Trondheim

Planning your trip to Trondheim?  Take a look at our guides, filled with all the best local advice to help you plan your trip effectively. If you’re searching for the perfect accommodation for your stay , you might want to check out our guide to the Best Hotels in Trondheim , while if you’re traveling on a budget , our guide to Cheap Hotels in Trondheim features a selection of decent, clean, and safe places that rank among the most affordable in town.

If you’ll be traveling by air, our guide to Trondheim Airport could be useful. It includes practical tips on how to get from the airport to the city center and vice versa, information on airport hotels , and other helpful advice.

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39 Fun Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway

April 7, 2022 by Silvia 22 Comments

Trondheim was the first place in Norway I lived in, so I guess it makes sense that Trondheim seems to be the city in Norway that people most often ask me about. I feel like at least once a week someone asks me for tips about the best things to do in Trondheim, when to visit, what to see, where to eat, and where to stay in Trondheim. Like, questions that should be really easy for anyone who has lived in Trondheim to answer.

And I’m always like… have you considered visiting Ålesund ? Or Bodø ? Let me tell you about them!

Lol I’m the worst. And it’s ridiculous, because Trondheim is actually one of the top Norwegian cities I recommend people visit.

Quick Trondheim Travel Guide

Trondheim Accommodation: Britannia Hotel for classic luxury, Scandic Bakklandet for modern luxury, and Best Western Chesterfield Hotel for mid range Trondheim accommodation.  

Top Trondheim Activities: 

• Private Trondheim tour
• Sledging and tram Trondheim winter tour
• Cross country skiing and sledging tour

Packing for Trondheim: You can find my  summer packing guide for Norway here  and my  winter packing guide for Norway here . In general I would say Trondheim is quite a casual city – even when dressing up to go out most women opt for sneakers or boots with their dresses, so you can leave the high heels at home. 

Travel Insurance:  It’s always important to get travel insurance, especially these days. I always use  World Nomads Travel Insurance , as I’ve had good experiences filing claims with them in the past.

The downtown is small enough to explore in just a day, but offers so many epic views and photo opportunities, and it’s on the train line so gives you easy access to both southern and northern Norway. 

So after my most recent visit to Trondheim, I decided to pull myself together and finally write that guide to what to do in Trondheim that I’ve been meaning to write for, oh, about a year and a half? Because as far as Norwegian cities go, if you’re looking for fun things to do Trondheim has got you covered. So here are all my top tips for things to do in Trondheim. 37 to be exact! Edit – after my last trip to Trondheim I had to add two more so now there are 39!

Southern Norway Guide! I’ve gathered all my best advice for planning an incredible trip through southern Norway (from the far south up to Trondheim) in a 93-page ebook covering my top recommendations for places to visit (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and a sample itinerary that covers my personal favorite route through the south.

You can purchase The Southern Norway Travel Guide here .

The Best Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway

Table of Contents

Walk through Bakklandet

Bakklandet is my favorite area of Trondheim and really the main reason why I think tourists might want to consider adding Trondheim to their Norway itinerary.

In fact, a family friend from Oslo visited Trondheim while I was living there and I took him around Bakklandet and he said he had never realized Trondheim was so nice. At the start of the day he was saying how odd he thought it was that I had chosen to move to Trondheim of all places, but by the end of the day he was talking about how he might like to live here too!

Bakklandet is famous for its old wooden homes, café culture, and cyclists. The streets are cobbled, but they have special paved sections for cyclists – there’s even a bicycle lift to help cyclists up the steepest hill. It also happens to have some of the prettiest views in all of Trondheim.

But what I love about Bakklandet is that unlike other old wooden neighborhoods in Norwegian cities, Bakklandet really isn’t that touristy. It’s mostly young people living there and just has a really nice, laid-back vibe.

If you’re looking at tours, Bakklandet is included in this alternative tour, and if you’d like to stay in this area, try the Scandic Bakklandet .

Take photos from Gamle Bybroa (the Old Town Bridge)

Because this view:

Visit Nidaros Cathedral

This is funny, but visiting Nidaros Cathedral is always one of my top recommendations for what to see in Trondheim, but I’ve never actually been inside!

I can’t remember how much the entrance fee is (it’s 90 NOK – thanks, Google), but I’ve been to enough cathedrals to feel like it’s not really worth it. BUT you definitely need to see the outside of Nidaros while in Trondheim. It’s also right in the center of the city, so you’re not likely to miss it anyway.

Nidaros Cathedral is also included in the alternative tour of Trondheim .

Explore Trondheim with a local

Trondheim is a peculiar city and definitely has a different vibe to Oslo and Bergen (read: a lot of people from Southern Norway make fun of Trondheim), so I’ve found that the best way to fall in love with Trondheim is to see it through a local’s eyes.

Trondheim locals are incredibly proud of their city and can show you the best spots and tell you lots of interesting stories (I assume some of them might be true?). So consider booking a customizable private tour for a few hours – they’re surprisingly affordable and will give you a unique perspective on the city. Click here for prices and availability

Take the tram up to Lian

Did I mention that these recommendations for things to do in Trondheim are in order of importance? They are (at least, so far they are).

One of my favorite things to do in Trondheim, in all seasons, is to take the tram up to Lian. You can catch it on St. Olav’s Gate in the city center.

In the winter there will be snow up there before we get it down in town, and in the summer you can go swimming in the lake! It feels like a little nature escape from the city, plus you can get some great views of the city from up there as well.

summer vibes much?

Walk around Bymarka

And while you’re up at Lian, explore the surrounding woods! There are so many pretty paths here

Have a picnic at Kristiansten Fortress

I used to live right by Kristiansten Fortress and it’s one of my favorite places in Trondheim. In the summer the park here is full of people sitting on the grass with picnics or grills.

Uh, just if you do bring a one-time grill, maybe don’t put it on a wooden chair.

Go swimming in the fjord

Yes, even in August it will be crazy cold, but if you want Norwegians to take you seriously you’re going to have to do it. At least that’s what my Norwegian friends told me…

Watch the Northern Lights

Okay, probably not. But, if you’re really, really lucky you might get to see the Northern Lights in Trondheim ! At least I did once (but yeah, only once).

If you really want to see the northern lights, you should travel north of the Arctic Circle (so Bodø or farther north).

I’ve written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your northern lights trip, including the best places in Norway (and the Nordics) to see the northern lights, the best time to see the northern lights, my top northern lights accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the northern lights (including which apps I use), how to photograph and film the northern lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best northern lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here .   

Eat something with seafood (or just have a beer) at Kafé Skuret

This pub is right on the water and is so, so nice on a sunny day (though the inside is also nice on a not sunny day). Something about sitting on the seafront always makes me want to eat seafood here, but apparently, some people can enjoy it with just a drink. You decide!

Visit Trondheim’s many trendy coffee shops

Honestly, there are so many hip cafés in Trondheim, and it seems like a new one pops up every week, so I don’t even have one to recommend to you. Maybe just go to them all.

Have a meal at Kalas & Canasta

Kalas & Canasta is a wonderful gem in Bakklandet that mostly only locals seem to know about. From the entrance it looks like a modern cafe, but if you walk farther inside you’ll find a super cosy dinning room in the old Bakklandet style. I had the 3-course set menu with wine pairings and it was seriously one of the best meals I’ve had in Trondheim. They also have a daily lunch special for 149, which is definitely a bargain for the area.

Have a meal at Troll

So the best meal I’ve ever had in Trondheim was at Troll . My friend Danielle was visiting and she’s a huge foodie (and works in a restaurant) so she did tons of restaurant and chose Troll. And like, whoa it is so good.

We split one 3-course set menu (we didn’t have time for the 5-course meal) and a fish dish and it was so much food between the two of us. If you want an amazing meal in Trondheim, go here.

Enjoy the long summer days (or… long winter nights?)

Trondheim is quite a ways north from Oslo, so if you’ve only been hanging out in Southern Norway you’ll be surprised at how much longer the days are up in Trondheim in the summer! But if you come in the winter be prepared for very little sunlight.

Catch a coffee, drink, and/or show at Antikvariatet

I mostly love Antikvariatet because it looks like a library inside. On a sunny day you’ll see tons of people sitting outside here, and on cold/rainy/snowy (aka most) days you can stay inside and enjoy the super cozy setting, even along with some live music if you’re lucky!

Watch an Arsenal game at the Three Lions pub

Uh, did I really just write that?

I’m not the biggest sports fan, but it’s actually really fun to watch Arsenal games at the Three Lions (treat yourself to a burger too!) as this is where all Trondheim’s Arsenal fans gather – and there are a lot of them.

But no worries if you’re not an Arsenal fan, or into football at all. The Three Lions has tons of different rooms, all showing different sports (and actually during Arsenal games, they’ll show the same match in two different rooms – one for the Arsenal fans and one for whomever they’re we’re playing).

Have a drink with locals at Bobby’s Bar

Okay, so I’m really unsure whether I want to share this secret, because Bobby’s Bar is so special. It’s a tiny little bar right in the center of the city frequented by the same group of old men each night. The owner is the nicest guy and when I’ve gone everyone has chatted with each other.

It’s so special, partly because it feels so local. So I don’t want to ruin it by making it touristy! Like, the first time I walked in everyone looked up to see who the strange new girl was. I feel like they don’t get a lot of non-regulars here – but they’re so welcoming (they didn’t even let me pay for my drinks the first time I went).

So seriously, only go here if you actually are interested in meeting locals. And no photos are allowed inside!

Eat some soft serve ice cream

In rain or shine, because Norway. And also because Norwegian soft serve is  amazing . You can get it at most of the convenience stores in Trondheim during the summer.

Rent a bike

With all its bike lanes (someone once told me Trondheim has 12% more bike lanes than any other city in Norway, though I can’t promise that’s true) Trondheim is a great city for cycling, and it’s worth renting a bike here to join in on the fun.

If you’re really brave you could even try out the bike lift in Bakklandet! (Though you seriously do have to be brave for this – I’ve seen many a cyclist make a fool of themselves trying to maneuver up this lift.)

Watch cyclists try to use to bike lift

In fact, forget cycling yourself, just head to the bike lift in Bakklandet and watch people trying to use it instead – that’ll be way more entertaining. The best is when a tour group comes through and tries it out – so many lols.

Go thrift shopping

Trondheim has so many good thrift stores! You can start at the Fretex (Norwegian Salvation Army) downtown, but you’ll find loads of small secondhand shops sprinkled throughout the city center. And there are always so many good finds here!

Wander through Møllenberg

This is my old neighborhood, and full of pretty wooden houses and views over the water. I think it’s one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Trondheim, yet bizarrely this is where tons of students live – like, how do they afford it?

Oh right, because they’re Norwegian.

Check out the record shops in Trondheim

While you’re being all hipster at the thrift stores, why not check out some good old fashioned record stores as well?

Trondheim has a bunch of record shops, though All Good Clean Records on Nonnegata 25, is probably my favorite – solely because it has a coffee shop inside as well. Haavard Holm Aftermath Music is also really good. It’s right next to the tram stop at St. Olav’s Gate. It’s one of those hole in the wall places with lots of random and obscure records.

Eat lunch at Baklandet Skydsstation

Aka the most adorable restaurant in Trondheim (and the world). They often have a herring buffet for lunch, but they also have tons of other amazing things to eat if herring isn’t quite your thing. So yum, so cute. No really,  so cute.

Visit their website here

Take a walk along the river

One of my favorite things to do in Trondheim is actually just to follow the route the river takes through town. I like to start in Bakklandet and then walk away from the fjord, into the city.

Visit Svartlamoen, or “Little Christiania”

Trondheim’s hippie paradise Svartlamoen is basically a much smaller version of Copenhagen’s Freetown Christiania.

Rockheim Museum

I’m not a museum person at all, but people tell me Trondheim’s museum of pop and rock music really is fun. I’m just not sure I believe them – so maybe you could go and report back to me?

Take the ferry to Munkholmen

Munkholmen – The Monk’s Island – was used by the Vikings as an execution site, later a monastery was built here, and then in the 17th century it became a prison, and now it’s a popular outing for both Trondheim locals and tourists.

You can either get a direct ferry there, or you can take a longer boat ride that will take you around town through Nidelva first. Both ferries leave right in front of the Ravnkloa fish market and you can buy tickets on board.

Sunbathe on Korsvika Beach

Lol jk, you’re probably not going to catch many sun rays in Trondheim (though maybe you will!). The walk from the city center to Korsvika Beach is really nice though – just pop “Korsvika” into Google maps and follow their route.

Sample the local beer

I mean, I know nothing about beer, but I do know that Trondheim has some local ones that people drink. Dahl’s is the local lager, and then the Trondhjem Mikrobryggeri is, well, a microbrewery. And Den Gode Nabo is a bar that has a floating deck on the river during the summer!

There, your expert guide to Trondheim’s beer scene sorted.

And then try some Linie Aquavit

Just kidding, don’t really do that – I have yet to see a foreigner try aquavit and enjoy it.

But if you’re feeling daring, Trondheim is the birthplace of Linie Aquavit, Norway’s oldest producer of aquavit, so this would count as a cultural experience.

Check out the Christmas Market!

Uh, only during Christmastime though, duh.

Go cross-country skiing in Bymarka

Again, this one is only for the winter. But my friend helps make the ski tracks, so they’re sure to be excellent!

Catch a metal concert (or… cd) at Fru Lundgreen

Because when in Scandinavia.

Get the bus to Ikea

Or is that just something locals like to do? What can I say, Ikea’s restaurant has some of the best deals on food in Trondheim!

Browse through Norwegian crafts at Husfliden

I’m not saying you should necessarily buy anything (everything here is super expensive) but Husfliden has lots of beautiful traditional and modern Norwegian art and crafts. I always enjoy peeking inside to see what they have.

Visit the Trøndelag Folkemuseum

Again, I’m not a fan of museums, but this one is actually really cool! It’s made up of old houses and buildings from around Trøndelag and give you an idea of what life in Norway used to be like in the old days. Plus in the summer they often have outdoor concerts and performances here.

Eat at The Tavern

This restaurant is next to the Folkemuseum and serves lots of traditional Norwegian dishes, giving you an even better insight into Norwegian culture.

Go kayaking in the river

I know this is a thing because I’ve seen a lot of people kayaking down Nidelven. But I have no further information.

Ugh, fine, I just Googled it for you: you can find info for booking kayak trips here .

Eat at Solsiden – maybe

Solsiden is a shopping center near the train station with lots of restaurants where you can sit either inside or outside by the water. I actually always used to judge the people eating outside at Solsiden because they tend to be the preppy crowd of Trondheim – like they wouldn’t be out of place in Stockholm if you know what I mean.

But during my last visit to Trondheim my friends and I went for pizza at Selma at Solsiden and it was super tasty and totally affordable. So I take back all my hate for Solsiden (or at least some of it).

Visit the city square

I’ve put this way at the bottom of the list – even after Solsiden! – because the city square in Trondheim is actually ugly and kind of depressing? At least, I’m not a fan. But then, there’s something cool about that too, and now you’ll probably have to go just to see if you agree with me or not.

The best way to get to Trondheim

Flights to trondheim.

One of my very favorite things about living in Trondheim was how convenient the airport connection to the city is. It’s just a 20-minute bus ride from Trondheim’s city center to the airport. Okay, so in retrospect maybe it was a little problematic that one of my favorite things about Trondheim was its proximity to an airport, but hey, at least it’s super convenient for anyone looking to visit Trondheim!

Trondheim actually has some really good deals on international flights – when I lived there I flew to Boston via Iceland for just a few hundred dollars – but it would probably also be worth searching for flights to Oslo or Bergen and then transferring up to Trondheim. Check current prices for flights here

Taking the train to Trondheim

Trondheim is also on the train line. This last time I went up to Trondheim I took the day train up from Oslo, and then the night train back. If you book really early you can find really cheap tickets – I paid 249 NOK each way from Oslo to Trondheim.

Just be aware that if you’re booking online with a card from the US, Canada, or Australia you may have to pay either with PayPal or by calling their customer service number.  Check the train schedule and current prices here

Renting a car in Trondheim (and other parts of Norway)

You might also consider renting a car in Trondheim, or for your journey there if you’ll be coming from a different Norwegian city.

You guys know by now that I’m a huge fan of road trips in Norway – there really just is no better way to explore Norway’s gorgeous nature, plus since public transport is quite expensive in Norway you can sometimes save money by renting a car instead.  Click here to check current car rental prices and save 10%  (and if you’re renting for a week or longer click here to save up to 35% )

Where to stay in Trondheim

And of course if you want to have an amazing time in Trondheim, you’ll need an amazing place to stay. I’ve actually written up a guide to the best hotels and accommodation in Trondheim , so you should be able to find exactly what you’re looking for there.

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April 26, 2017 at 2:34 pm

Ooh, this makes me want to go back to Trondheim! I was there for a conference in June a few years back, and I didn’t manage to stay up long enough to see it go dark! I also loved Baklandet Skydsstation, although I’was a bit disappointed that they didn’t do proper barista coffee to drink with their lovely pastries. It made sense, though: the atmosphere was so properly, authentically oldfashioned!

I also loved the Folkemuseum – a cool castle ruin/hill and so many old buildings! And the amazing bicycle lift (a-ma-zing! never guessed such a thing could exist!)! And LOL at your BBQ on a chair :).

Today’s typo alert: “while your up at Lian” — and on that topic: I didn’t get to see Lian – a definite reason to come back!

Silvia says

May 1, 2017 at 11:06 am

Yeah, I kind of like that they don’t have barista coffee there! And thanks for the alert, once again! haha

Arielle says

April 26, 2017 at 6:24 pm

“like they wouldn’t be out of place in Stockholm, if you know what I mean” daaaaaaaaamn lol The shade Norwegians and Swedes throw at each other never fails to amuse me.

May 1, 2017 at 11:05 am

Hahaha so true! It’s done in love, mostly, haha.

April 27, 2017 at 11:25 am

You could always walk to Trondheim from Oslo. The old pilgrimage route (St Olav’s Way) is about 640km and finishes at Nidaros Cathedral. I only heard about this a few weeks ago and it went straight onto my wishlist.

May 1, 2017 at 11:02 am

I know someone who did it! it sounds like an amazing journey.

Andreas says

June 30, 2017 at 6:52 pm

We like your list and are trying to do most of the items. Thx for the effort.

August 7, 2017 at 8:20 pm

Fjordbuda is a must for tourist in Trondheim. The price level are ridiculusly low and the staff is supernice. The offer quality products – not the junk you find elsewhere.

The shop is located at the top of the footbridge Sjøgangen – which connects the pir and the inner city.

The are open on mondays to sundays.

October 20, 2017 at 7:01 pm

Thanks for a good list, but I have to say that I am a bit disappointed by the judgmental opinions about Møllenberg and Solsiden. Lots of students go out in Solsiden after the pre-parties or just to eat with friends, you don’t need to be filthy rich to afford it once in awhile. And about Møllenberg, it’s one of the cheapest area to live in Trondheim, I live there without being Norwegian and it’s actually the biggest and the cheapest room I have found in the city!

October 29, 2017 at 7:12 pm

Ooh interesting! I lived in Møllenberg as well, but it was the most expensive place I looked at (I chose it based on the central location). And you’re right, I’m probably unfair towards Solsiden – I just really don’t enjoy the vibe there, but that’s personal opinion.

January 10, 2018 at 8:01 pm

Looking forward to our trip in Feb! we only have a few hours as we are travelling on the Hurtegruten working boat up the coast, so we will make the most of it!! Thank you!x

April 23, 2018 at 11:51 pm

Thanks for a great list to use for a future trip to Norway. I will be bookmarking your post for future use. Trondheim seems, like much of the country, a place worthy of more than a fleeting visit of a couple of days. The activities and sights with plenty of walks and photo opportunities are the kind of experience that is our ideal kind of break away.

Sharon says

May 18, 2018 at 7:57 am

I am taking the train from Oslo to Trondheim next month to catch a cruise. I have carry on size luggage-what do I do with it on the train? Can I keep it with me near my seat, or do I have to check it somewhere?

May 18, 2018 at 12:38 pm

There’s space for luggage above the seats.

September 5, 2018 at 3:58 pm

Good list, missing

Swimming at water park Pirbadet Fishing at Pirli or Trondheimsterminalen Nidelva Eat or go up to Tyholt tower Take Bus 6 to Værestrøa Take but 11 to Trolla Take but 10 to skistua Boat tour in klæbu lake Take a tour at Byåsen by bus and stop somewhere you get the whole town overview

Sarah Jeffrey says

October 3, 2018 at 4:44 pm

This is such a great list! I am travelling to Trondheim in Jan and have definitely added a lot of these to my must-do list. Would you recommend hiring a car in winter? Are the roads relatively safe? (Especially if we were to drive North a few hours)

October 6, 2018 at 12:33 pm

The roads are totally safe if you’re used to driving in snow. If you’re not used to snow just take it slowly and you should still be fine!

Mark Bridges says

October 29, 2018 at 8:27 pm

Thanks for all the great information! My family is visiting in August 2019 for 2 days. Do you recommend any dog sledding or wagon pulls? My daughter saw it on a web site and that’s all she wants to do in Norway. Last question, what are the temperatures in August? Thanks again. Bridges Family, California, USA

November 2, 2018 at 5:21 pm

Hi Silvia, This post is amazing – it is so useful! Me and my new hubby are visiting Trondheim at the end of November as a little weekend mini moon, but I have seen so many other posts elsewhere saying November is a bad time to visit as there’s not much to do! Would you recommend anything specifically? We wanted to try a traditional Norwegian spa but I don’t think these exist in Trondheim. Thanks so much!

Katie Espeland says

January 4, 2019 at 11:59 am

Hello! I moved from Denver to Trondheim over a year ago and I think you are spot on with your recommendations. I also live in Møllenberg (1/2 a block up from All Good Clean Records) so it’s exciting to read about your experiences and know they aren’t too far off from my own. Skål and maybe I’ll run into you sometime around town. Best!

Courtney says

July 18, 2019 at 4:19 pm

I have been to 3 of your places so far today and am currently at Bobby’s. My friends were reluctant to go in but this is my favorite thing to do when traveling. Going to a 100% local bar where they look surprised to see you but are so friendly and curious. Thanks for this list. I always trust tips from expats (I am one in Amsterdam.)

October 4, 2019 at 3:01 am

Thanks for the awesome article!

I’m actually traveling to Trondheim at the end of January. I’m aware that I cant do everything in this article at that time of the year (eg jumping in fjord). What are my options besides drinking/eating/walking in the town?

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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written by Anita Isalska

updated 05.02.2024

Aurora-chasers venture to the Arctic north, while slick Oslo lures the arty crowd. In the stampede to these A-list destinations , some parts of it are often forgotten. Leave some space in your itinerary for Trondheim , the country’s former capital. With Scandinavia's largest medieval building, rocking nightlife, and museums, here is our pick of the best things to do in Trondheim.

1. See medieval splendour at Nidaros Cathedral

2. rock from daytime until dawn, 3. visit the art museums, 4. immerse yourself in norwegian folk history, 5. maroon yourself on peaceable monks’ island, 6. take a glimpse of norway’s colourful side by the nidelva river, 7. immerse yourself in local food culture, 8. enjoy fjords, fishing and ski slopes near the city, 9. exploring the christmas markets - one of the best things to do in trondheim, 10. get amazing views from kristiansten fortress.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Norway , your essential guide for visiting Norway .

The world’s most northerly medieval building inspires awe with elaborate tracery and rows of bishops that gaze from its stone facade. The Nidaros Domkirke is built over the grave of Saint Olav, Norway’s ‘eternal king’ and patron saint, credited with the country’s transition from paganism to Christianity.

Intriguingly, the Domkirke draws two very different kinds of pilgrims. Some arrive after following the Pilgrim’s Route, a 640km journey from Oslo, which has been trodden since the eleventh century. The others couldn’t be more different: fans of Norwegian black metal band Mayhem, who placed the cathedral on the cover of their first full-length album.

Gothic exterior of the Nidaros Domkirke, Trondheim, Norway

Speaking of heavy guitars, you don’t need to wait until sundown to rock out in Trondheim. Part museum, part-cultural centre, Rockheim takes you from the innocent beginnings of 1950s rock in Norway right through to modern heavy metal legends.

Interactive displays and listening posts mean you can make a day of it, though in reserved Norway we’d advise against using Rockheim as your own personal karaoke bar. Continue the theme when the sun dips below the horizon and head to Fru Lundgreen , a basement bar with a non-stop soundtrack of Scandinavian rock.

Metres from the cathedral, the Trondheim Kunstmuseum (Trondheim Art Museum) is best known for its temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. The downside is that these exhibitions often leave little space for the museum’s permanent collection, which features a particularly enjoyable selection of Norwegian paintings from 1850 onwards.

Trondheim’s Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum (National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design) possesses a substantial and diverse permanent collection. You'll find lovely textiles, furniture, ceramics and metalwork. An especially noteworthy part of the museum’s historical collection does much to illustrate bourgeois life in Trøndelag from 1500 to 1900.

Monument to Trondheim (Bjorn Norgaard, 1988) in the park behind the Art Museum (Kunstmuseum) © Shutterstock

Monuments and historic buildings are wonderfully well preserved in Trondheim, and consequently, the city exudes nostalgia. The Archbishop’s Residence is the oldest secular building in all of Scandinavia, with its first stones laid in the twelfth century.

Alongside it, in the shadow of the Domkirke, is the Archbishop’s Palace Museum, an award-winning attraction telling Trondheim’s history all the way back to the Iron Age.

Among the best things to do in Trondheim to go back to the agrarian past is the Folk Museum (summer only). This open-air space has more than 80 historic buildings, mostly wooden houses in eighteenth-century style and farmsteads.

Trondelag, Folk Museum, Trondheim

Related articles from the blog

If your eardrums are ringing, one of the best things to do in Trondheim for your spiritual side is a boat trip to Munkholmen (Monks’ Island). Lapped by the chilly waters of the Trondheimsfjord, this tiny isle has bleak beginnings as an execution ground, though following the birth of Christianity in Norway it became a Benedictine monastery.

In the seventeenth century it was transformed into a prison, but these days it’s a summer playground. Munkholmen is prime territory for picnics of thermos coffee and kanelbullar (cinnamon rolls). Ramble the remains of a 400-year-old fort, and go for a summertime swim. Boats run hourly in good weather.

Munkholmen - Monks' Island - of Trondheim, Norway © Shutterstock

It’s far from grey up north. Go see Trondheim’s most colourful neighbourhood, and make your way to Gamle Bybro, the Old Town Bridge. From this hulking red span, you can enjoy a fine view of storehouses in colours from mustard to navy blue, creating a rainbow of reflections in the Nidelven River.

If admiring the scenery from Bright Bybro lifts your spirits, it’ll come as no surprise that the bridge is known as the ‘Gate of Happiness’. The bridge symbolised a new start for Trondheim, having been built after a devastating fire in 1681.

From the east side of the bridge begins one of Trondheim’s most picturesque streets, Bakklandet. This cobbled road is flanked by pastel-coloured shop fronts and cafes painted merry shades of red and pink.

The Nidelva River - one of the best things to do in Trondheim© FotoFabrikHamburg/Shutterstock

It’s no secret that dining out in Norway can create a black hole in your bank balance. Nonetheless, there are reasonably priced restaurants in Trondheim, like Baklandet Skydsstation. This eighteenth-century building oozes charm, with walls draped in embroidery and old photographs. It’s an excellent spot for platters of herring, rye bread sandwiches or fish soup.

Wash it down with one of more than a hundred types of aquavit. Vegetarians won’t want to miss the rotating lunch specials at Persilleriet, a snip (by Norwegian standards) at DKR128.

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And while Brits may be disorientated by the sight of Three Lions English Pub and Scottish-themed drinking hole Macbeth, there is plenty of evening haunts with a more local feel. Head for Trondheim Mikrobryggeri for craft beers in a cosy setting.

Appetizing raw herring with onion slices served on a platter © Shutterstock

The great outdoors is mere steps away from the city. Trondheimsfjord is Norway’s third longest at 126km, with scenic islets and rocky coves where sea eagles soar. Visiting the fjord is one of the best things to do in Trondheim for fishing and for travellers who want to barbecue their own catfish or simply bob in tranquil waters. The best times to fish are late winter and early spring, so pack your thermals.

For a more adrenaline-pumping winter pastime, take a 40-minute drive (or 45-minute train journey) south of Trondheim to Vassfjellet, a ski centre with 500m of vertical. Meanwhile, a two-hour train ride away lies Are, a Swedish ski area with plenty of powder and an untouched feel.

This tailor-made Aurora Feast in Finland, Norway and Sweden is perfect for people who want to explore the Arctic. Begin your journey from the southern part of Finland via Sweden up to the northern part of Norway. Most importantly, you will be hunting for the Northern Lights in the best locations!

Kjeungskjaer lighthouse at the Trondheim fjord, Norway © Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Trondheim during the festive season is visit one of the Christmas markets. Maybe not one of the best Christmas destinations , Trondheim still is known for its charming Christmas markets. They attract both locals and tourists alike. The best-known markets are Trondheim Christmas Market and Bakklandet Christmas Market.

It is also worth noting that market dates and programmes may vary from year to year, so it is worth checking with the Trondheim Tourist Office in advance when planning a trip.

Narrow Brubakken leads up the hill from Bakklandet to Kristianstensbakken and the Kristianstenfestning. Dating from 1681, the fort’s earth and stone ramparts remain in reasonably good condition and a surviving artillery tower is of some interest. But the big deal – and one of the best things to do in Trondheim – is to come here for views back over Trondheim.

Kristiansten Fortress, Trondheim © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Trondheim

• For luxury: Britannia Hotel
• For couples: Quality Hotel Prinsen
• For rural stays: Private House & Bungalow by the sea
• For modern stays: Scandic Bakklandet

Find more accommodation options to stay in Trondheim.

Trondheim is a fantastic destination with Norwegian charm. Ready for a trip to Norway ? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Norway .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Norway without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © mariusz.ks/Shutterstock

Anita is an editor and writer based in California. British by birth, Polish at heart, Aussie by marriage and French by sheer obsession, Anita writes about inspiring people, places and technology. When she isn't researching Central and Eastern Europe, interviewing wine makers or editing copy, Anita is thundering down ski slopes. Follow her @lunarsynthesis on Twitter and Instagram .

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Visit this charming city with numerous scenic viewpoints, historical places and museums to visit, many within walking distance from the lively pubs, cafes and shops of the city centre and waterfront areas.

This is a city with a long and interesting history, but the first thing you’ll notice about Trondheim – besides the vivid colours and rich tapestry of architectural styles – is the small town friendliness that permeates the atmosphere.

As Norway’s third largest city, just shy of 200,000 people, Trondheim is full of life, with numerous scenic viewpoints, historical sites and museums to visit, many within walking distance from the lively pubs, cafes and shops of the city centre and waterfront area.

Founded in the year 997 AD as a Viking trading post, Trondheim briefly served as the capital of Norway. Later, during the Middle Ages when the city was known as Nidaros, it was the seat of the Archdiocese and Northern Europe's most important Christian pilgrimage site.

Although wars and fire ravaged this medieval city in the 17th century, a number of relics survived to this day, including the imposting and ornate Nidaros Cathedral – one of the city’s top sights.

Another of Trondheim’s most cherished link to its past is the charming and trendy area of Bakklandet district with its cobbled streets, well-tended gardens and rows of colourful, old wooden houses overlooking the Nidelven River.

And a little further to the east – for those who desire a workout to burn off those vacation calories – a walk up the steep sidewalks to the to the 17th century Kristiansten Fortress is well worth it for the panoramic view over the city, hills and coastline from its canon-lined ramparts.

With so much to enjoy, Trondheim is a fabulous destination on its own, but it also serves as a popular connecting point between the Dovre Railway (Trondheim-Oslo line) and the coastal cruises that sail along the coast between Kirkenes and Bergen.

Trondheim during Summer

Trondheim during Winter

Trondheim in Norway

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The Best Things to Do in Trondheim – in just 1 Day!

Our first stop in Norway was to the northern city of Trondheim.

Since it would be the only ‘big city’ on our first visit to Norway, I had pretty high expectations… and they were met! Trondheim is colorful and cozy, even in the dead of winter.

The city’s colorful warehouses, misty rivers and great restaurants make it a great introduction to Norway… and something we wouldn’t find anywhere else on our road trip .

Here’s a quick guide to visiting Trondheim!

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Trondheim’s History

Trondheim dates back to the Viking Age.

Founded as a trading post in 997 by Viking King Olav Tryggvason, the town was considered a ‘good place to live’ for its location on the south shore of Trondheim Fjord. For the next 200 years, Trondheim served as the base for Norway’s religion and royalty. 

During this time, Nidaros Cathedral was built and the Royal Residence constructed. Both stand today and the latter is considered Scandinavia’s largest wooden palace. Although the capital was moved to Oslo, new kings still come to Trondheim for a ceremonial blessing. 

Today, the city is Norway’s capital of technology and a thriving university town. A lively student population, cultural events and world class skiing make the city charming yet vibrant.

How many Days in Trondheim?

1 day in Trondheim is really all you need to see the highlights. We spent two nights in the city, just to relax and have a leisurely introduction to Norway.

If you’re heading onward to some smaller towns, note that Trondheim is considered a ‘big city’ so it’s a great place to have that Michelin star fancy meal, buy souvenirs or stock up on winter gear.

Where to Stay in Trondheim

Ideally, you should stay in the center of downtown Trondheim in the neighborhood Midtbyen. This is that island-looking piece of land surrounded by the Nidelva river.

Trondheim has lots of hotel options, from boutiques to chain hotels. Check here for last minute hotel deals . 

But, I know Norway can be an expensive country to visit! Airbnb is also a great option with lots of accommodation slightly outside the downtown section, across the Nidelva river. Browse Airbnb rentals in Trondheim here .

The Britannia

We stayed at the Britannia , a luxury landmark property right in the center of downtown. The hotel recently finished an extensive 4 year renovation and every inch of the hotel is gorgeous. We'd recommend staying here for the breakfast alone!

Book rooms: Booking.com , Hotels.com | Check rates on TripAdvisor

Read our in-depth review

The front desk was especially helpful.

After breakfast, we all met in the lobby to head out for the day when a friendly attendant offered a map and suggested some restaurants, coffee shops and walking loop to see the main highlights.

Below are some of the things she suggested!

Things to Do in Trondheim

Trondheim is Norway’s third largest city, but has just 200,000 people. The charming and colorful city is home to a walkable city center, wooded hills and fantastic restaurants. Here are some of the best things to do in Trondheim!

1. Nidaros Cathedral

We started with the most visited sight in Trondheim: Nidaros Cathedral. The impressive building is right in the city center, and a great place to start a walking tour of the city because you can’t miss it! 

Built in 1070, Nidaros’ altar was constructed over the grave of Olav, the Viking king who transitioned Norway from pagan religion to Christianity. The cathedral was the seat of Catholicism in Norway and an important pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages.

Today, the Pilgrim’s Route of St. Olav’s Way is re-instated. The 400 mile (640 km) long route starts in Oslo, heads north over Dovrefjell mountain, down the Oppdal valley and ends at Nidaros Cathedral. 

After Norway gained independence, Nidaros became the coronation and later, consecration church for the country’s kings. Head down the crypt to find medieval tombstones. 

Note : Nidaros has a entrance fee to go inside, which can be combined with the ticket to the Archbishop palace and crown jewels next door.

It’s probably worth looking into the Northernmost Gothic Cathedral in the world, but if you’re like us… just walk around the perimeter to soak in the view. The west wall has the most ornate embellishments, with a striking stained glass window and top to bottom statues of biblical characters. 

2. Archbishop’s Palace Museum

Right next door is the Archbishop’s Palace, the 12th century residence of Norwegian Archbishops. It’s one of Scandinavia’s oldest secular buildings dating back to 1160. Buy a combo ticket to view the museum, cathedral gargoyles and crown jewels. 

3. Art Museums

Right next to the cathedral is Trondheim’s Art Museum. Inside you’ll find Norway’s third largest collection of public art, filled with mostly Norwegian art over the last 150 years.

If you love museums, there’s also a couple other spots in town to explore:

• The National Museum of Decorative Arts
• The Armory & Resistance Museum 
• Rockheim, the Rock Music Museum
• Sverresborg, the open air museum

4. Take a Photo on the Nidelva River

From the cathedral, walk towards the Nidelva river and cross Gamle Bybroa, the old town bridge. Originally built in 1681, the ornate red bridge connects the city center to the charming suburb of Bakklandet.

Don’t forget to get a group photo! The colorful view of warehouses here is one of the most Instagrammable places in Trondheim. 

5. Kristiansten Fort

After the bridge, climb 10 minutes up the semi-steep hill to reach Kristiansten Fort. 

Built after Trondheim’s great fire of 1681, the fortress has a commanding view of greater Trondheim below. The grounds were open even in the dead of winter, although coming in summer to picnic would probably be nicer!

During World War II, Nazi Germany occupied Trondheim to use the city as a base for their submarines. Kristiansten Fortress became a prison and execution ground for members of the Norwegian resistance.

6. Bakklandt

On the way back down the hill, take a right and you’ll find yourself in the charming neighborhood of Bakklandt.

The cobblestone streets are lined with small, colorful wooden houses which have been turned into cozy restaurants, bars and street side cafes. It’s one of the most popular neighborhoods in Trondheim to eat, drink and people watch. 

Even in winter, Norwegians like to sit and eat outdoors! Grab a pastry and cup of coffee and watch tourists try to use the world’s first bicycle lift.

7. Stroll through the Alleys

A catastrophic fire in 1681 burned most of Trondheim to the ground. 

However a number of alleys date back to the city’s medieval history and are still intact in the city center. Join a guided tour of Trondheim’s alleys to learn the history of the city from a local and explore the cutest streets off the beaten path.

8. Explore the Local Food Scene

Trondheim has a great restaurant scene with a focus on local food. And, if you love burgers, there are tons of great burger joints in town like Bror, Cowsea and Døgnvill. We tried Graffi Grill, which was nice!

9. People Watch in a Trondheim Cafe

Trondheim has a strong coffee culture, with lots of fantastic baristas and roasters.

We tried a spiced chili latte at Kopi, which had a nice kick! Other great coffee shops in Trondheim to check out: Dromedar, Sellanraa Bok and Jakobsen & Svart.

10. Try a Cinnamon Bun

Norwegian cinnamon buns are a staple throughout the country’s bakeries. Grab a kanelknute at Hevd in Trondheim, or my personal favorite, Kardemumme Knute (cardamom buns)!

11. Ride the Tram

We didn’t get to do this since we visited Trondheim in winter, but the Trondheim Tram is a fun experience when the weather is better!

The 5.5 mile (8.8 km) route goes from the city center up into the mountains. If you like walking, jogging or hiking, get off at Bymarka which has lots of trails, viewpoints and cabins selling food. 

Trondheim’s city center is filled with shops. Over the holidays, the streets are lit, the Christmas markets open and there’s such a cheery vibe exploring the independent boutiques and clothing stores. 

Getting In and Around Trondheim

Flying In to Trondheim

Trondheim’s international airport, Værnes, is the fourth largest in Norway with great connections to European cities like London, Copenhagen and Amsterdam. If you’re lucky, you can fly directly into the city and avoid an extra layover (and time delay) in Oslo.

Check flight options and set a fare alert here .

From New York City, we flew Norwegian Airlines to Oslo and then took a short 1 hour domestic flight to Trondheim.

Norwegian is really the only airline that offers nonstop flights from New York City to Oslo in low season, so unfortunately there isn’t much choice. On the other hand, Norwegian is a low cost carrier and if you book early enough, flights can be a deal. 

Norwegian Air Review

A quick note on Norwegian: as a low cost carrier,  everything  will be extra: bags, meals, seat selections, you name it. It’s fine so long as you read the fine print before booking!

Norwegian significantly marks up the fares if you pay in USD. If you can book flights on the airline’s website in Norwegian and pay in Krona (using a credit card with no foreign fees), you’ll save significantly on the fare. It was about $150 cheaper to pay in Krona one way.

Finally, from reviews and our experience, it seems the JFK to OSL overnight flight is regularly delayed by an hour or more, so leave enough time for your layover at Oslo Airport if you are connecting onward. 

The Oslo to Trondheim route is a hugely popular route, so there are typically tons of domestic flight options. For convenience, we booked Norwegian Air for the second leg as well so that our checked bags could meet us in Trondheim. If you switch carriers, you’ll have to enter a separate line at Oslo immigration to pick up and re-check your bags. Or you can go carry on only (but that’s a little difficult in winter)!

Trondheim is connected to Norway’s major rail stations, so if you’re already in the country (or nearby Sweden), it’s easy to take the train.

Train lines that stop in Trondheim include:

• the northbound Nordland Line to Mo i Rana
• the eastbound Meråker Line to Åre and Östersund in Sweden
• the southbound Røros and Dovre Lines to Oslo

The Hurtigruten coastal ship calls at Trondheim port on the Bergen to Kirkenes route. Typically there’s one ship heading in each direction, north and sound, per day. Lots of ocean cruises, like Viking , will also include a visit to Trondheim!

Planning a Trip to Norway – Travel Checklist

Go | We flew from New York to Oslo and then caught a domestic flight to Trondheim. Low cost carrier Norwegian Airlines offers some great deal fares if you book early, but amenities like meals, blankets and luggage cost extra. Wideroe and SAS are other great options. Check here for flight deals .

See | Norway may look small on a map, but it's a huge country! Driving distances are much, much longer than you think so choose a region to base yourself in and budget 1 to 2 weeks to see it all. 

Getting Around | The best way to experience Norway is on a road trip. The country has a number of National Scenic Roads that blend epic landscapes, active adventures and modern art. Book car rentals well in advance to save. Auto Europe is a great comparison tool and Sixt rentals offers lots of great deals.

Stay | From red fishing cabins to glamorous luxury hotels, there are tons of unique lodging options throughout Norway. Best of all, breakfast is typically included and Norwegians know how to offer a fantastic breakfast spread! Check here for great deals on accommodation .

For groups, give Airbnb a go. There are some beautifully renovated cabins and rorbu available for rent!

Protect |  Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Norway Vacation Planning Articles

Driving in Norway : Everything You Should Know

What to Pack for Norway in Winter

What's Life Like in Norway?

City Guides

Trondheim Travel Guide

Activity & Hotel Reviews

Britannia Trondheim : A Northern Palace

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Last Updated : 04/24/2024

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