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The Top 20 Attractions around Trondheim

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The Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim (old name of the city: Nidaros) is one of the most important churches in Norway, it is considered a national shrine. The Norwegian Basic Law … read more

Gamle Bybro (1861)

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Trondheim's old city bridge Gamle Bybro (also Gamle Bybrua or Bybroen) crosses the Nidelva River. According to the story, it should bring good luck to those who cross it. Maybe … read more

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Kristiansten Fortress

From here you have a nice view over the city. The fortress was built in 1681.

First bicycle lift in the world

A special form of a bicycle lift. A description is available at Wikipedia.

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Estenstadhytta

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Trondheim

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Trondheim, Norway's third largest city, is also one of the country's oldest. Founded as a trading post by the Vikings in AD 997, it was Norway's capital until 1217, and new kings are still crowned here. Built on a peninsula and linked to the mainland at its west end, Trondheim is the main town of the county of Sør-Trøndelag in central Norway.

It is a popular stop on the route of the Hurtigruten , the coastal ferry that connects towns from Bergen to Kirkenes, and its location on the Trondheimsfjord makes it a good base for fjord cruises. Like much of northern Norway, Trondheim experiences no darkness from mid-May to mid-July, and while it benefits from a mainly mild maritime climate, there is good skiing in the surrounding areas.

You'll find it easy to decide which places to visit with this handy list of the top attractions and things to do in Trondheim.

1. Nidaros Cathedral

2. explore bakklandet and gamle bybro (old town bridge), 3. kristiansten fortress, 4. rockheim, 5. archbishop's palace and museum, 6. stiftsgarden, 7. ringve museum, 8. wander around the harbor and visit the trondheim maritime museum, 9. explore trondheim by kayak or tour boat, 10. tyholttårnet, 11. sverresborg trøndelag folk museum, 12. vitensenteret i trondheim, 13. national museum of decorative arts, 14. munkholmen, 15. go skiing at fjellseter gråkallen, where to stay in trondheim for sightseeing, map of attractions and things to do in trondheim.

Built by King Olav Kyrre (1066-93) over the tomb of Norway's patron saint, St. Olav, Nidaros Cathedral is widely regarded as the most magnificent church in Scandinavia. The cathedral is the world's northernmost medieval cathedral and one of the city's top tourist attractions. Kings have been christened and buried here, and since 1814 it's been a requirement of the Norwegian constitution that the monarch should be crowned in Trondheim Cathedral.

The transept and chapterhouse are in a late Romanesque style influenced by the Norman architecture of England, while the long choir with its beautiful south doorway was added in the 13th century, along with the massive nave and tower. After being damaged by fire several times, the church was fully restored in the early 1900s.

Address: Bispegt. 5, Trondheim

Official site: https://www.nidarosdomen.no/

Cross the river Nidelva through the red arches of the Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge) to reach the picturesque lanes and colorful old houses of the Bakklandet neighborhood. It feels like a small village, and the historic wooden riverside buildings have become small shops, galleries, coffee houses, and restaurants.

Shopping in the boutiques is one of the favorite things to do here, or stroll along the river for views of the buildings lining the opposite bank. This is Trondheim's most historic and atmospheric neighborhood.

Standing on a hill to the city's east, Kristiansten Fortress (Kristiansten Festning) was built between 1681 and 1695 to protect the city against attack. It is a bit of a climb, but admission to the tower and its small museum is free, and the views across the city are lovely.

Grim reminders of the fortress's 20th-century history are the cells in which the Nazis held members of the Norwegian Resistance during the World War II occupation, and the memorial to those who were executed here.

Address: Rosenborg, Trondheim 7016

Fans of pop and rock music will enjoy this trip down memory lane and the chance to hear some of Norway's greats. The museum's collections are displayed, along with interactive exhibits, videos, and recordings, so there are plenty of things to do here.

The permanent exhibit, The Time Tunnel, brings modern Norwegian musical and cultural history from the 1950s to the present to life through sounds and performance videos. Changing exhibits focus on particular aspects of music and culture.

This is a museum where you can get actively involved, jamming with popular tracks, releasing your inner graffiti artist, dancing, or creating your own remixes. The museum's restaurant has views across the city.

Address: Brattørkaia 14, 7010 Trondheim

Official site: https://rockheim.no/en

The medieval Archbishop's Palace (Erkebispegården) is not only the oldest building of its kind in Scandinavia, it's also one of the best preserved such palaces in Europe. Dating back to the late 12th century, the palace's west wing now houses a number of historic displays, including the Norwegian Crown Regalia exhibit — a spectacular collection of Norway's dazzling crown jewels.

Here, too, are the Army and Resistance Museums , with their focus on Trondheim's military history from Viking times to World War II. Over in the south wing, the Archbishop's Palace Museum includes original sculptures and archaeological finds from nearby Nidaros Cathedral .

Built as a private home by the wealthy Christine Schøller in 1778, Stiftsgården is used by Norway's royal family as their official residence when they visit Trondheim. One of the largest wooden buildings in Europe, this mansion of more than 100 rooms is an outstanding example of 18 th -century Baroque architecture.

The mansion has housed royals and their guests since 1800, and you can get a good picture of how the social elite lived as you explore its opulent rooms on a guided tour.

Address: Munkegata 23, Trondheim

Official site: https://nkim.no/en/stiftsgarden

For a longer and broader view of Norwegian and European music, visit the Ringve Museum, Norway's national museum of music and musical instruments. It houses two permanent exhibitions: the Museum in the Manor House , with instruments from the European musical tradition, and the Museum in the Barn with its displays of modern sound and lighting technology.

New for 2021 is the innovative Beethoven Factory exhibit marking the 250th anniversary of Beethoven's birth. In addition to the exciting audiovisual installation, the exhibition uses several interactive features that bring to life Beethoven's long-lasting influence on music, film, art, and even politics. This is an exhibit with something for all ages, and the entire museum is a good place to go for families with children.

Address: Lade Allé 60, 7041 Trondheim

Official site: http://ringve.no/en/

Colorful buildings on the River Nidelv in Trondheim

You can spend hours wandering around the city's old port area at the mouth of the River Nidelv. Colorful old wooden warehouses, many of them converted to classy boutiques and high-end homes, are built on piles above the water. The best view of these buildings is from the water, and a wide variety of harbor tour options are available.

The Trondheim Maritime Museum focuses on exploring the city's long and deep-rooted connection to the sea. Housed in a former penitentiary dating from the early 1700s, exhibits include figureheads, models, and pictures of sailing ships, and a variety of marine instruments. This is a good place to go for families, as many of the exhibits are hands-on and encourage young visitors to try on uniforms, climb into hammocks, and learn knot-tying.

Address: Øvre Elvehavn, Trondheim

The best view of the colorful harbor buildings is from the water, and a variety of harbor tour options are available. Most tourists opt for the frequent boat tours, such as those on the Trawler Ranja or the traditional Afjordsboat Frøya with Trondheim by Boat . Choices include sightseeing tours with a guide knowledgeable about the wildlife, history, and culture of the Trondheimsfjord; fishing trips; and sunset and even winter cruises.

Or travel under your own power in a kayak to get unique water-level views of the harbor and explore the beautiful Nidelven river. You can rent kayaks or join guided tours year-round with Trondheim Kayak .

Trondheim by Boat

Address: Munkegata 66, Trondheim
www.trondheimbyboat.com

Trondheim Kayak

Address: Bostadvegen 11, Trondheim
https://trondheimkajakk.no

For a bird's-eye view of the entire city, go to the observation deck at the Tyholttårnet, a 124-meter-tall radio tower . At 80 meters high is a revolving restaurant, Egon, where you can spend an hour to get a complete rotation for a 360-degree panorama.

If you are lucky enough to be there at the right time, this is an exceptional place to view the Northern Lights . The aurora borealis is a phenomenon caused by charged particles from the sun striking atoms in the Earth's atmosphere; the energy they release causes the colored moving lights. Trondheim is too far south to have frequent northern lights displays, but they do sometimes happen in the coldest months: December through March.

Address: Otto Nielsens veg 4, Blussuvoll, Trondheim

Around the ruins of King Sverre's castle , parts of which date from the 12th century, this open-air museum of Norwegian history and culture includes upwards of 80 buildings representing village and city life, as well as the culture of the native Sami people.

The town center of the museum is made up of wooden houses that were once in downtown Trondheim and include a grocery store, post office, and tradesmen's workshops. One group tells the story of Trondheim's maritime past, with storehouses, boat sheds, and fishing gear. A farming village demonstrates rural life and includes a historic stave church , as well as Sami displays .

Address: Sverresborg Alle 13, 7020 Trondheim

Official site: https://sverresborg.no/en

Near the train station and within walking distance of the city center, Trondheim's innovative museum/science center makes the physical sciences and principles of physics approachable and engaging to adults as well as children. Hands-on creative projects demonstrate scientific principles, and there are models to operate and other interactive exhibits.

Norway's first and only 3D planetarium and 360 cinema is open most weekends, with shows that include the spectacular film, Hello Earth . More than just an educational experience, this museum is fun to visit.

Address: Kongens gate 1, Trondheim

The National Museum of Decorative Arts (Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum) is home to a vast collection of historical and modern artifacts including furniture, silver, glass, textiles, ceramics, and designs dating from the 15th century.

The museum itself is a work of art, its interior having been created by famous Belgian architect Henry van de Velde in 1907. In keeping with the architecture, the museum holds an outstanding collection of Art Nouveau works. Art enthusiasts will also enjoy the Trondheim Museum of Art with its collection of Norwegian art dating from the 1850s.

Address: Munkegata 5, Trondheim

Official site: www.nkim.no/english

Just over a kilometer outside of Trondheim, in the Trondheimsfjord , is the fortified island of Munkholmen. In the summer, you can take a shuttle boat from Ravnkloa to visit the island, where you can see the well-preserved round tower belonging to the former Benedictine abbey of Nidarholm, founded in the 12th century.

This site is now occupied by a fort built in 1658, the Gammel Festning , as well as more recent fortifications left behind by the German occupiers in World War II, when it was used as an anti-aircraft gun station.

A pleasant day trip from Trondheim , and one of the most popular things to do in the winter, is to travel five miles west of the city to Fjellseter (367 meters), a popular ski area with a ski-jump.

In the summer, hikers will enjoy the path leading to the summit of Gråkallen (555 meters), with its excellent views of Trondheimsfjord and the mountains along the Swedish frontier. The hill can also be reached on the Gråkallen electric railroad from St. Olavsgata , or by bus.

Trondheim's top tourist sites are in the compact city center, and this is the best place to stay for sightseeing. Most of these hotels are within easy walking distance of attractions such as the cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, and harbor, and almost all include breakfast in the rates. Here are some highly rated hotels in this convenient and central location:

Luxury Hotels:

Hosting royalty and dignitaries since its founding in 1870, the Britannia Hotel is Trondheim's only luxury grand hotel. A member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World, Britannia has four restaurants, one of them Michelin starred. Its 246 rooms include 11 luxury suites, and there is a large spa and indoor pool. For all its grandeur, Britannia is a warm, family-friendly place to stay.
Trondheim lacks any other true luxury hotels, but the popular, light-filled Scandic Nidelven has won awards for its delicious, free breakfast. It is near the harbor, as well as Trondheim Central station.
Radisson Blu Royal Garden Hotel , located next to the city's Nidelven River, features smart design and colorful accents in its public spaces and 298 guest rooms. The central atrium sits under a glass roof, filling the space with stunning natural light. In addition to the sleek decor, the rooms and suites feature free high-speed, wireless Internet and mini bars. Family rooms are available.

Mid-Range Hotels:

In a classic two-story building that was once a bakery, the Best Western Plus Hotel Bakeriet is in a charming Old Town neighborhood, a five-minute walk from the Old Town Bridge. Guests love how the hotel keeps its bakery traditions alive, serving complimentary waffles throughout the day, and a complimentary light evening meal in addition to breakfast.
Overlooking the Nidelva River, the pet-friendly Scandic Bakklandet is only a 10-minute walk from the cathedral and other city center attractions. Guest rooms are stylish, with modern furniture and décor. A bountiful breakfast buffet is included.
Also pet-friendly, the bright and cheery Scandic Solsiden is close to many cafés and restaurants,. and lends bikes to its guests. Although it is not as close to attractions as some, it is still convenient, with Bakklandet Old Town and Stiftsgarden within easy walking distance.

Budget Hotels:

About six minutes on foot from Trondheim Central Station and a few steps more from the main square, the pet-friendly Comfort Hotel Trondheim features an impressive atrium-style lobby and crisp, contemporary rooms.
A few blocks from the cathedral, near shops, restaurants, and cafés, City Living Scholler Hotel & Apartments is a great option for extended stays with its apartment-style rooms and communal kitchen and laundry.
Near the harbor and a five-minute walk from town, the sleek and contemporary Clarion Hotel & Congress Trondheim hosts large conferences, and features a rooftop restaurant and beautiful views of the Trondheim Fjord. Pirbadet, Norway's largest pool complex, and Rockheim are right next door.

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.

Trondheim Norway - Things to Do in Trondheim

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.

Sverresborg Trøndelag Folkemuseum Trondheim Norway

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.

Solsiden Nedre Elvehavn District in Trondheim Norway

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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Nerdy Footsteps

A weekend travel blog

50 fantastic things to do in Trondheim, Norway: hear it from a local

Updated on: July 18, 2022

As I write this article about the best things to do in Trondheim, the sunshine is spilling through my light curtains, yet there is a stillness in the air. It is pleasant outside and the fresh green grass in my backyard is inviting me to lay around and finish the rest of my article in its embrace. I put a quick glance at the clock in my microwave, it is 11:48 pm. 11:48 PM!! And there is still so bright!

I have been in Trondheim for the last 4.5 years and I am still not used to this much light so late in the evening. But that’s life in Nordics for you.

Life in Trondheim might feel a bit extreme at first glance. There is midnight sun in summer and then there is winter when we get minutes (yes, minutes) of sunshine in a whole month. I wasn’t sure I would like it here, so initially, we moved here for a year. The year after my Ph.D., I needed a break, from academia, from Germany (and Switzerland). I wanted to do something different, something extreme. Trust me, everyone finishing a Ph.D. has this phase. So when my husband was offered a postdoctoral position at NTNU, in Trondheim, it was an immediate yes. I had never been to North Europe at that point but have seen Finland, Denmark, and Norway on the happiest countries list too often. Plus Northern lights were a big motivation.

One year turned into three and here we are, 4.5 years down the line, have a permanent job, had a baby, bought a house, signed a loan for a car, and the hardest of all, got a driver’s license. Some might say we are pretty ‘settled down’ in Trondheim.

Coming back to Trondheim. How do you describe a city that is old and traditional in its roots but young and energetic in its spirit? Trondheim is that city. It is colorful, lively, and still traditional.

Once the Viking capital of Norway, Trondheim holds a special place in Norwegian history and culture. It was the first capital of Norway and is still the city where new kings receive their ceremonial blessing. Even before the Pilgrims and the Viking Age, people were drawn to the region for its seafood-rich fjords and vast mountain ranges.

In the late Middle Ages, its name changed to Trondheim. ‘Heim’ means home and ‘Trond’ means a good place, so Trondheim translates to a good place to live or a good home.

I have seen all seasons here. I have seen snow-laden streets, I have seen fresh spring leaves arriving from one day to another, I have seen the warmth of its summer and I have seen the beautiful hues of its autumn. Today I am sharing the 50 fantastic things to do or see in Trondheim.

Table of Contents

Things to do/see in Trondheim

Oh boy, where do I start?

More than 40,000 students call Trondheim home. That is a significant number in a city of 180,000 residents. Being a student city, Trondheim is young and lively. There are lots of events happening all the time. Some of my favorite things to do in Trondheim are:

Marvel at the artistic genius at Nidarosdomen

You know an attraction is the highlight of a city when it spans all the postcards and magnets of the city. Nidaosdomen is that highlight for Trondheim. It is the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral. It is considered the most important religious building in Norway and is also the largest medieval building in the whole of Scandinavia. The Nidaros Cathedral as we know it today began as a wooden chapel erected over the tomb of St. Olav, the Viking King who became the patron saint of Norway. Pilgrims from all over the world still come to visit the cathedral, just as thousands have done before them during the Middle Ages.

Nidarosdomen is not subtle. The detailed statues on the exterior are unparalleled. But the best part is definitely the tainted windows inside. There is something about such painted windows in the dark gothic environment that add to the grandeur of such gothic marvels. This masterpiece deserves a place on your Trondheim to-do list. Words do not do justice to the magnificence of this cathedral.

Nidarosdomen, Things to see in Trondheim,

Fun fact: The cathedral boasts of one of Europe’s largest organs with 9600 beeps. In such a high-ceiling building, the acoustics are phenomenal. I had the pleasure of attending a live concert here. Hearing Harry Potter music on such an organ is an experience I will not forget anytime soon. I had goosebumps! It reminded me of the live music premiere of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s stone we saw in Lausanne.

The entrance costs 120 NOK for adults and 60 for students/children. The opening times of the cathedral keep changing throughout the year. Please have a look at their calendar before planning your visit. There are some guided tours available from June-August.

Walk around Ila pier (Skansen)

When you have a beautiful fjord coastline, how do you use it without commercializing the shit out of it? Just create a platform for people to run, stroll, and bike along the fjord.

This is one of my favorite things to do in Trondheim. I spend most of the weekends here, having a stroll. You will find a bridge from ancient times for boats to pass through the narrow channel to the fjord. Along the coast, there is ample space for a picnic, grilling, swimming, or just laying around in the sun. There is a nice cafe ( Lille Skansen ) right before the bridge. You have to try waffles there!

The best way to end this short walk is by treating yourself to the favorite local ice cream from the Siemens Ice cream stall close to the ferry terminal. My personal favorite is the Brunost flavor, which is made of the famous Norwegian brown cheese. It is incredibly creamy with a hint of caramel. Yummy!

See the Hogwarts (-like) building at the NTNU campus

Trondheim is considered the technology capital of Norway. It is home to Norway’s largest science and technology university NTNU and the research institute SINTEF. As a result, many start-ups are spun off into companies here.

I like the campus where my favorite Hogwarts building lies, overlooking the fjords and the city. Yes, you read it right! Hogwarts building! Well, it is not the same Hogwarts building technically, but it has the same architectural vibe and it hosts the main library of the university. Students fondly call it the Hogwarts building. And you cannot miss the old-time engine on the back of the building, which certainly fulfills the Hogwarts express vibes.

This is as close it gets to the Harry Potter world, here in Trondheim. For the real deal, you might need to go to London.

Take in the majestic views at Utsikten

Being on the fjord comes with its benefits, apart from the coastline, you get incredible views all over the city. And Utsikten has outdone all of them. From Utsikten, you have a view of the Trondheim Fjord and large parts of the Trondheim center, both south, east, and north.

While it is in the residential area of Sverresborg, you can’t walk past it without waiting and taking the views in.

Take the tram to Lian

Trondheim has an old-style tram that goes all the way to Lian where there is a nice lake and lots of hiking paths. And of course a restaurant. It is a pretty relaxing and chilled-out activity to do. The highlight is actually the tram itself. The old-style tram goes through the cute residential areas in Trondheim. It is a bit offbeat but still one of the most authentic things to do in Trondheim. It is quite nice and gives you impressions of typical Norwegian households. And Trampolines, so many trampolines.

See Trondheim from a Boat tour

Trondheim by Boat takes you on a journey along the river Nidelva flowing through the heart of the city eventually venturing into the adjoining Trondheim fjord.

Captain Amanda is an expert at introducing you to the nature, history, and culture of Trondheim.

You can customize the trip and plan the route with Amanda. That’s what we did the second time. Yes, we have done this boat tour twice and the routes were different both times! The sea was different both times, once we were all wet in the cold water and the ride in the fjord was shaky and adventurous to say the least (but still pretty safe). The second time, it was sunny and relaxing. The river and the fjord both were pretty harmonious and it was one of the most beautiful activities in Trondheim. We even got some hot coffee/chocolate in the middle of the journey, which was nice and cozy.

Britannia hotel

Britannia Hotel is Trondheim’s darling, its first luxury hotel. It is the only five-star hotel in Norway. Its restaurants have collected accolades in a short time after reopening. The spa is the highlight. Well, it is difficult to point out a highlight when everything is so grand.

They organize different events every month and check the latest ones on their Facebook page.

If you’re into a more luxurious experience, book a few nights’ stays at the newly renovated Five Star Britannia Hotel . Surrounded by elegance and plush design, you can enjoy a relaxing spa day and dine at one of several restaurants on the premises. With Britannia Hotel located right in the center of town, you are within walking distance of many wonderful sites and attractions.

Enjoy the Hammam

In a city obsessed with physical activity, Trondheim Hamam is one of the most relaxing experiences in the city. It is in fact, a bit outside the city but worth a trip.

They offer different massage and Hamam packages that include a bath, spa, steam, massage, snacks, and tea. We booked their ‘sultan’ package for ourselves on our anniversary in dark December and it was nice and relaxing. It felt refreshing to walk back to the snow after about an hour or two in the steam and the warmth.

If you have never had a Hamam experience before, beware that the ‘bath’ might feel a bit intense and intimate as it involves rubbing off the dead skin from your body.

You should book it in advance as it is popular as a group activity, especially on weekends.

Gorge on the waffles and brown cheese

What I restrict myself in the modern culinary scenes, I compensate in the traditional Norwegian delight: waffles and brown cheese.

Norwegian waffles are different from Belgian waffles, they are thinner and made up of heart-shaped pieces. Traditionally, people relish them with another Norwegian delicacy, brown cheese.

Well, brown cheese can be a hit and miss for tourists, because it is not what to expect from cheese. It is a brown, caramelized, and sweet version of cheese. And to add to the multitude of differences, it is not even cheese.

But I love it. It takes a while to get used to it but I don’t know many expats and locals who don’t love it. A must-to-do in Trondheim.

And do you know what is the best way to eat brown cheese? As an ice cream! Yes, and it is heavenly. You can find it at the Simens ice cream shop at Brattora.

Walk in the historic old Town, Bakklandet

The old town is one of the most charming and oldest parts of Trondheim. You must have seen the photos of the colorful wharves from this part of the city. If you google Trondheim, those are images you will find. Once these old timber buildings were home to the working class of Trondheim and now these streets are dominated by cafes, restaurants and antique shops. It certainly is the most photogenic area in Trondheim.

My favorite walking route (okay, maybe second favorite, the first one is Skansen) in Trondheim is to walk down the bridge, along the river, and then end up in old town, grabbing a hot chocolate or icecream, depending on the season. It might feel like a touristy thing, but trust me the old town, Bakklandet is loved equally by locals and tourists alike.

Rent a bike or an e-scooter

What is a fun bike ride without riding up and down some hills?

I never got a hang of the electric scooters, but my husband loves them. There are at least three different companies now. You can install the app and find the nearest e-scooter, and restricted areas, and follow the rules. Teenagers’ favorite.

Take a dip in Pirbadet

Pirbadet is a swimming pool. I won’t generally include a swimming pool in my ‘things to do’ list but this one deserves this spot. This bathing facility offers you a smooth transition between the sea and the pool. You can even relax in an outdoor heated pool while overlooking the cold fjord.

They even have slides, a wave pool, a high dive platform, a sauna, and a climbing wall.

Walk along Lade

The Lade Trail (Ladestien) is a green path along the fjord and locals’ favorite for a walk or run. You can already see the pattern here. Most of the green and beautiful paths in the city, along the fjord, or in the forest are running/strolling paths.

This curvy path offers you the best views of the fjord, and trains your calf muscles at the same time, as it is not a flat path. While on this path, feel free to check out the Ladekaia cafe . Coffee, gorgeous fjord views, and a walking path, are three things that characterize Trondheim.

Take a ferry to Munkholmen or neighbor towns/villages

From the coastline of Trondheim, you cannot miss the small island, Munkholmen. It is a historical site that is open to visitors now. This small island and the fortress have played the role of a prison in the past. You can even book a guided tour that takes you inside the premise of the fortress, booked generally with the ticket. Otherwise, you can just have a stroll yourself. There is a cafe that is open during the visits.

You can buy the return ticket for the ferry from the ticket booth at Ravnkloa. It runs hourly in summer.

Apart from the boat tour to Munkholmen, you can take a ferry or the coastal express to neighbor towns and villages on the fjords. You can even go all the way to the small island of Hitra (which I recommend) and even Kristiansund (do not recommend it) for a refreshing day trip.

Visit the cute little fortress, Kristiansten Festning

What is a medieval city without its fort/fortress?

Kristiansten Fortress was built after the great city fire in 1681 and now stands guard over the city. It offers a spectacular view of Trondheim and its surroundings, the fjord, and the mountains.

The fortress was used by the Nazi forces during World War II. The site where 23 Norwegian patriots were executed by the Nazi forces is inside the fortress.

Okay, let’s be real. The Kristiansten festning is a bit underwhelming for my taste. It is neither grand nor magnificent. The only plus point is the view, but again, there are so many better spots for that in Trondheim. So, feel free to skip it.

Experience history at the Sverresborg Trøndelag Folkemuseum

The museum is placed around the ruins of King Sverre’s castle, which date as far back as 1183. Take a walk through history and landscapes, and explore buildings from town and country, from mountain to coast, and from Sami huts to city mansions.

The museum’s old town comprises buildings that were originally located in downtown Trondheim and offer a charming representation of the wooden houses that have dominated the cityscape from the 18th century up until today. Here you can see the vintage dentist’s exhibition, the shoemaker’s workshop, the post office, and the museum’s old grocery store, where you can buy sweets and a cup of coffee.

The open-air museum hosts a series of exciting events throughout the year, including the annual Christmas event on the first weekend of Advent and the museum’s large Mid-Summer event. I like going there for the Christmas event, riding the horse cart, and eating waffles by the fire.

If your name is Sverre, you can enter the museum free of charge!

Get amazed at the Art museums, Kunstmuseum

Trondheim is home to many good art museums. There are two locations got Trondheim Kunstmuseum (TMK), one near the Nidarosdomen called TMK Bispegata, and another one near Solsiden, TMK Gramolna. They have very cool temporary exhibitions. Another museum, that is my personal favorite is the Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustri museum. The exhibitions range from classic art to modern to even 3-D exhibits or various relevant topics.

Rock on at the Rockheim

Not into art, what about rock music? Rockheim Museum preserves Norwegian popular rock culture from the late 50s until now. They have dedicated exhibitions (both permanent and temporary) for each decade.

You can read about different artists, listen to their songs, and see their equipment in a well-designed storyline throughout the museum. in one of the exhibits, you can also play with some of the equipment. Some of the exhibits are designed to make you feel like a part of the crew and you can sit on a bus and travel with the bands and the songs. In another exhibit, you can listen to the old popular songs in a bar-like setting and many more.

And of course, there is a hall of fame, you can see Norwegian contributions to popular music over the past seven decades, including the famous a-ha band from 1985 and their most famous song take on me. In the same hall of fame, you will find more international bands that were famous in Norway at different times listening to their hit numbers.

Chase the waterfalls at Illabekken

The best thing about Trondheim is that within minutes, you are in nature, far away from the hustle-bustle of a busy city. Ilabekken is a small river that meets the ocean at Ilsvikøra. There is a trail following the river, popular among local people as well as tourists. The part where the wooden stairs are built along and over a small waterfall is especially idyllic. Again, you will find the athlete locals running here, regardless of the season.

I used to live five minutes from this beautiful walk. The waterfall is the first spot we take our guests to! There are benches along the path if you just want to relax and have a nice break on the path. It is wonderful that within five minutes of the city you can feel like you are in the woods.

you can venture just beyond the city’s edges in Bymarka. This scenic area is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, or cross-country skiing in the winter months, with an array of marked trails crisscrossing the reserve, leading to spectacular viewpoints, charming rest areas, and cozy cabins offering food and refreshments.

Walk along the river

The Nidelva river frames the city center of Trondheim. You can walk along the river, from close to Skansen, and walk all the way to the Old town, Bakklandet.

It also offers good fishing opportunities (salmon and trout). The record for salmon ‘so far’ is 31.8 kg (70 lb). Most fishing locations are open to the public, so come and try your luck, but first remember to buy a fishing permit (Axel Bruun sports shop, Prinsens gate 30).

Witness a cool performance at the Trondheim Spektrum

If you are walking along the river on the path I mentioned above, you will see the recent addition to the cultural scene of Trondheim, Trondheim Spektrum. It is famous for its indoor sports stadium, concerts, festivals, workshops, musicals, and various other indoor events. Check out their calendar to find something you might be interested in. Yes, they are premiering cats musical this year.

See something majestic at the Olavshallen

Another more traditional indoor event space is Olavshallen which hosts comedy shows, musicals, talks, and orchestra. We attended the talk from Prof. Brian Cox about Adventures in space and time. The hall was pretty cool and the talk was fantastic!

Even if you are not into any event they are organizing, I would recommend checking out their food court, Olavstorget . On the ground floor of the Olavshallen, you will find Olavstorget with six different cuisines and a lovely bar. My favorite is the chicken sandwich (with mango and avocado) and the pink pisco sour. One of the best cocktails, sour and refreshing, not too sweet.

Be entertained at the Bike lift

While at Gamle Bybro, try your hand (or foot) on the bike lift. Yes, the bike lift. Trondheim is hilly and some parts are more than others. One of such sloped streets, immediately after the old bridge, has a bike lift. You can always find people struggling to make it work. It works only in summer though.

Watch a Soccer match

Norwegians love soccer, especially league games. Lerkendal stadium is the second biggest in Norway. The tickets are usually available and are not as expensive as in countries like Germany, Spain or Italy.

Shop at the Fishmarket

When you have a vast fjord next to you, you know the seafood will be fresh and delightful. To buy fresh seafood, visit the fish market at Ravnkloa which doubles as a cafe with quayside tables out the front. There you can find anything from fish cakes, shrimp, mussels, fish soup, and all other seafood delicacies. In addition to seafood, it sells an impressive range of cheeses and other gourmet goods.

Note: The Ranvkloa market is now permanently closed. So, you might have to buy the seafood in supermarkets.

Promote the local Saturday market

If you are in the city center on a Saturday, don’t miss the regional food market in the central square. On some pre-decided Saturdays, you can buy regional produce from the farmers in this market. From fresh vegetables, fish, pickles, meat, jam, cheese, and other local products. My favorite is the clover and honey cheese from the Dutch cheesemaker and the potato and cinnamon lefse, a Norwegian sweet flatbread.

Explore the Trondelag mat and beer festival

Every year in summer, Trondheim celebrates a Trondelag mat and beer festival (food and drinks from the state of Trondelag). This is one of the biggest food events in the city and you can find different kinds of food items, starting from the bear burger, reindeer, local daily products, ice creams, sweets, Norwegian pizza, local produce, and craft beers, and a lot more. And fish, lots of fish.

Be cozy at the Christmas markets

The Christmas Market in Trondheim takes place in the city center in December every year. You will find an exciting market with quality crafts, handmade products, Christmas food, and trees. You can even witness some cool concerts, theatre, storytelling, and horse and sleigh rides. There is a lavvo in the center where you can enjoy local food and beverages by the fire. Very cozy, I must admit.

While this Christmas market is nothing compared to the ones in Germany or Austria, I love it. It is a cozy lighted scene in the middle of dark winter days and I cannot get enough of it.

Exploit the Sale day

This might be the biggest event in Trondheim. Yes, Sale day is a once-in-a-year event in Trondheim when there are big sales in almost all the stores. The market opens early in the morning and people go crazy! It is intense enough that I included it in the list here. Google when the next sale day is, maybe you are in luck!

Trondheim is blessed with numerous lakes around it. All these lakes are beautiful but my favorite is Kyvanet. It is perfect for a quick swim and then a nice picnic around it. It is a family-friendly area but equally popular with youngsters as well. On a sunny day, sunbathers just lie down and enjoy the few weeks of sunshine in Trondheim.

Try your hands at the Shuffleboard

Shuffleboard is a much-loved game here. It involves players pushing the metal weighted pucks down a smooth wooden table into a scoring area. You have to slide the pucks hard, but not too hard. I enjoy this game. That doesn’t mean I am good at it. I enjoy it anyway.

It is quite popular in Norway. We usually try our hand at it at Work Work.

Pilgrim along the Pilgrims’ route

In ancient times, pilgrims used to follow the Pilgrim’s Route, (Pilegrimsleden) to the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, which is the site of the medieval tomb of St. Olav. The main route is approximately 640 kilometers (400 mi) long. It starts in the ancient part of Oslo.

I find it fascinating that this route passed in front of our old rented house. For ages, so many pilgrims have walked on those streets.

Be trendy at Brattora

Brattøra is the newest part of Trondheim. This artificial island is located at the mouth of the river Nidelva just north of the city center and south of Trondheimsfjord. There is a canal that divides the mainland from the island of Brattøra.

The buildings here are modern and different from the traditional Norwegian buildings. A walk along this area, by the fjord, will show you a different side of Trondheim, chic and modern.

And of course, you can do that while gorging on ice cream from my fav stall.

Chill out at the Korsvika

Korsvika is a popular beach on the Lade peninsula. It has several small inlets with a sandy beach and some coastal rocks. This family-friendly area is perfect for sunbathing and having a nice picnic by the sea.

Understand the world at the Science museum

The science museum in Trondheim promotes learning through interactive exhibitions. It offers a hands-on experience where children and adults together can play, learn, and explore.

The museum targets kids and youth and aims to inspire them to learn more about the natural sciences and technology. I liked this museum. While the focus is primarily on kids, it was fun for us adults as well. I recommend going to the museum when you visit Trondheim.

The highlight of the museum is the Planetarium, which opened back in 2017. Norway’s first 3D planetarium is in this science museum and will take you on an unforgettable journey to the universe with spectacular full-dome shows.

Sometimes music concerts are also held at the planetarium, given the fantastic echoes in the dome.

Swim in the fjords

Trondheim is not popular for its fjords. While it has a really wide and pretty fjord, it is not as dramatic as in Western Norway. So these fjords are often neglected.

You can swim in the fjords all year along. Yes, all year long even in the middle of winter. What can I say? Norwegians love their cold dips and you can join them in this madness.

Me? No Thanks! I will be back home by my fireplace, sipping hot cocoa.

Go for the Northern lights hunting

Trondheim is north enough for dark and icy winters but not north enough for bright Northern light shows. But I have been lucky enough to witness them at least a few times every year. If you are lucky enough, you might see them as well.

If you are here in winter, do not forget to download the My aurora forecast app to give you alerts when there are high chances of spotting the lights.

Enjoy the concerts from July-august

Every summer Trondheim is a haven for music lovers. Be it trash metal, Grieg, folk music, or electronic music, you will find a concert for the same. The music scene in Norway is full of madness, finesse, feeling, and rhythm.

I have witnessed people queueing for hours for the bus to take them to the Metallica concert in the summer of 2019. Everyone was wearing their merch since early morning and enjoying a nice sunny afternoon in the city center before lining up for the bus. It was insane!

Buy Norwegian wool

I often have trouble deciding what souvenirs to get from a place. I am getting a bit bored with the whole postcard and magnet brigade. So I actively look out for souvenirs that are unique and meaningful.

If you want to buy a good and meaningful souvenir, get Norwegian wool. Norwegian wool is washed and prepared without chemicals and is known for its strength and luster. It cannot get more local than this.

Yearly around 4.000 tonnes of wool is processed in Norway and wool is deeply loved. People buy and knit their sweaters themselves. There are knitting meetups in cafes, bars, and restaurants. I have never seen a place so in love with knitting.

It makes sense. It is cold for about 8 months of the year. This year I am wearing woolens in July, which is technically summer. Let’s not talk about it.

Kayak through Trondheim

Trondheim is blessed with the beautiful river Nidelva that winds its way through this historic city before joining the fjord. To explore the city from the river, you can kayak your way through it.

You can kayak in the river and/or the fjord. It is a fantastic way to see the historical old town bridge and the wharves, Nidaros Cathedral, Kristiansten fortress, and old boats along the channel.

Geek out at Outland

This is my favorite store in Trondheim. You can geek your heart out at Outland. This three-storied store sells English books, comics, figurines, pop culture memorabilia, popular merch, board games, and a lot more.

Most of the board games are sold in their English version, which is nice. I like to visit it once every few months to satisfy my nerdiness. I bought my copy of the Pandemic game here and loved it, till it became real. I don’t like the game anymore.

Pick mushrooms

Being close to the forest gives you more benefits. Bymarka is full of some of the most unique mushrooms I have ever seen. Be it orange, red, purple, name the color and I have seen a mushroom of that color. I mean, not personally. I haven’t been picking mushrooms myself but I have friends who do that.

There is a voluntary non-profit organization that promotes knowledge and use of mushrooms and wild edible plants, called The Norwegian association for mycology and foraging . It organizes several events around the year for mushroom picking, identification, cooking, education, and much more. When in Trondheim, you can contact the local branch from the same. While most of their events are in Norwegian, you can contact them and arrange some tours/events in English.

But beware, if you don’t know much about mushrooms, don’t go for this activity because you can easily pick the poisonous ones. Take note of this important information from the health department in Norway.

Spot the Graffiti

Yes, the graffiti and street art scene in Trondheim is blooming. Be it the old neighborhood of Bakklandet or the upcoming areas of Ila and Ilsvika, you can find impressive artwork on the streets.

In fact, in 2019, a gatekunstfestiva l (street art festival) event was organized in Ila and Ilsvika, inviting kids, youngsters and artists to show their talents on the street. You can find some pictures from the event and its artwork here . The website is in Norwegian but pictures are the global language, no?

Enjoy the sun on the sunny side (Solsiden)

Solsiden translates to the ‘ sunny side ’ and it is called so for a reason. It is sunny! Solsiden, with its beautiful waterfront, is one of the most popular areas to hang out in Trondheim.

You will find an array of good restaurants and bars in this area, including my favorite breakfast and pizza place !

Try your brain at the Escape Room

I never went to an Escape room event before moving to Trondheim and now I have been to different escape rooms. It is so exciting!!

Well, for those of you who are new to the concept, the Escape room is a game where you solve a mystery within a time limit to escape from the room. There are several puzzles and brain pickings to solve the case. Usually, the team size is 2-10 people. I really enjoyed the one with the Magic school theme (that was also the only one we managed to solve :D). I will recommend booking for at least 2-3 days in advance.

Stock up on licorice

I don’t like licorice. There, I said it. I don’t understand this mania for licorice. I didn’t get it for Haribo in Munich and I don’t get it now with all the crazy candy and licorice obsession in Scandinavia.

But if you are interested, there are lots of stores, convenience stores, and even cinema theaters that have a full collection of different varieties of licorice. Go crazy!

Explore the Home of Nordic flavors: Michelin star culinary scene

Trondheim is a budding culinary genius. Even the tourism website calls it Home of Nordic Flavours and rightly so. Trondheim has a lot to be proud of. For a city of this size, it has multiple Michelin-star restaurants and celebrated chefs. Learn more about it here.

Local chefs put a lot of focus on high-quality ingredients including some of the best seafood, local produce, and dairy products. It is impressive for a city with limited vegetation options to achieve this status.

Trondheim is a city of fish and meat lovers. Since I don’t eat too much meat, I haven’t been able to explore its culinary scene completely. But that’s fine for me.

While the culinary scene in Trondheim is better than ever, locals’ real love is sushi. You will find restaurants offering sushi buffets at a relatively moderate price (for Norway). Norwegian sushi is a bit different in the sense that you will have lots of modern twists with sushi. Let’s just say I don’t dislike the strawberries and green apples in my sushi. And I do pick sushi pieces with a moderately spicy mayo-based dressing. Judge me all you want, but you have to try it when in Norway. Sushi bar and Sabrura , both have many branches in Trondheim and I can personally vouch for them!

Fun fact: Norwegians claim that salmon sushi is their invention.

Eat the best breakfast in Norway

If I tell you that you can eat the best breakfast in Norway right here in Trondheim, will you believe me? You should! The breakfast buffet at Scandic Nidelven has been ranked the top for the last few years and rightly so!

The breakfast buffet is a huge spread of all the local produce starting from cheese, yogurt, milk, different varieties of smoked salmon, cut meats, fruits, juices, smoothies, muesli, and whatnot. There are several options for vegan and gluten-free restrictions as well. The spread is not only enormous but quite fresh and delicious as well.

If you stay at the hotel, it is included with the stay, otherwise, you can just call and book a table in advance.

Tips and suggestions

No cash needed: You don’t need cash in Norway. Card payments are acceptable everywhere. In the last 2.5 years, I never needed cash in Trondheim.

Walk, walk, walk: Trondheim city center and most of the attractions mentioned above can easily be reached by foot. I recommend walking around in the center, it is pretty.

Get bus tickets on mobile: In case you need to take a bus/tram (weather is unreliable), I highly recommend downloading the ATB Mobillett app and buying the tickets from the app. The difference in the ticket price if you buy tickets from the app versus from the designated shops is significant. For example, one zone ticket on the app can cost about 37 NOK but buying this ticket offline will cost you more than 50 NOK. Please note that there is a separate app ( ATB Reise ) for route information.

Ice walkers: If you are coming to Trondheim in winter, I recommend getting the spikes for your shoes. If you don’t manage to get them in your city, don’t worry. You can get them here at all the sports gear shops or any of the Clas Ohlson in the city.

Student discounts: Trondheim is a great place to be a student. Given the number of students in the city, most of the shops/utility services offer student prices. So, If you are a student, bring your student IDs to make the most of these discounts.

Free refill with black coffee: Norwegians love their coffee. Given the messed-up daylight schedule, I don’t blame them. Most of the cafes offer free refills when you pay for plain black coffee.

Rainproof clothing: Norwegian weather is infamous for its reliability. Don’t forget to bring your rainproof clothing. As the Norwegians say, there is no bad weather, just bad clothing.

When is the best time to visit Trondheim?

I will tell you when NOT to visit Trondheim. November! It is the darkest month with lots of rain and ice. Trondheim only gets daylight for a few hours and most of the time it is cloudy with heavy overcast. Not fun! While December is darker technically, the Christmas market and snow make it festive and cheery. Trondheim has a lot to offer and it would be a delight to visit it anytime before/after October to December.

If you like winter, Trondheim is pretty cute, overladen with snow. January and February are the best months to experience a good winter in Trondheim. Do not forget to pack layers of clothing and good shoes.

In Summer, Trondheim is a darling! The weather can be sunny and warm starting from May and all the way to August. But it is Norway. So, there will be weeks of rain and cold in between. So pack your clothing accordingly.

Where to stay in Trondheim

Britannia hotel: It is the only five-star hotel in Norway. That says a lot, doesn’t it? Britannia Hotel is famous for its luxurious interiors, remarkable restaurants, and its London taxi. I have been to one of their restaurants, and it was a delight. They also offer a great buffet breakfast and more restaurants on site.

We tried their lunch buffet, it was nice but not enough options for vegans/vegetarians. But the dessert section was amazing!

Scandic Nidelven: This hotel is closer to Solsiden, about a ten-minute walk from the city center. Solsiden has many restaurants and cafes and is famous for its vibrant vibes! The best part? The best breakfast in Norway is included with the stay. This hotel is my personal recommendation!

Clarion Hotel: This is one of the locals’ favorites as well. It is in Brattora, the new part of Trondheim. One of the famous venues to host conferences/meetings etc. The highlight is definitely the rooftop bar. Also, Pirbadet is just next door.

How to reach Trondheim

By plane: To reach Trondheim by air, you will most likely have a connection from Oslo, Copenhagen, or Amsterdam. There are a few direct charter flights from Greece, Spain, Turkey, and London as well.

After landing in Trondheim, you can take either the bus or train from the airport to the city center. The bus is more frequent (every twenty minutes or so) but the train is cheaper and goes through the coast, which is a beautiful journey.

By train: You can easily reach Trondheim from Oslo or Bodo in about 7 hours. There are some overnight trains as well.

By Cruise/boat/ferry: This is how most tourists come to Trondheim, via Hurtigruten cruise. They spend a few hours here and then head back to continue their journey along the stunning and vast Norwegian coast.

As the name Trondheim reflects, It is a good home to me and I hope you will have a fantastic time here as well.

Adriana says

June 28, 2023 at 1:11 am

Thank you! I’m eternally grateful for people like you who sum up for people like me ( it is luxury fir me to travel & you make it possible to experience all I do)

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Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Nidaros Cathedral

2. Bakklandet

3. Ringve Museum

4. Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum

5. Kristiansten Fortress

6. Old Town Bridge

8. Rockheim

9. Graakallbanen

10. Tyholttarnet

11. Forsvarsmuseet Rustkammeret

12. Erkebispegarden (Archbishop's Palace)

13. Stiftsgarden

14. Munkholmen

15. Vitensenteret i Trondheim

16. Church of Our Lady

17. Ladestien - Hiking Trail

18. Pirbadet

19. Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum

20. Jewish Museum Trondheim

21. Bondens Marked

22. Trondheim par3golf

23. Trondhjem Mikrobryggeri

24. The Crown Regalia

25. Olav Tryggvason Monument

26. Elgsethytta

27. Reality Adventures

28. Sykkelheisen Trampe

29. NTNU University Museum

30. Salamander Night

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Home » Travel Guides » Norway » 15 Best Things to Do in Trondheim (Norway)

15 Best Things to Do in Trondheim (Norway)

Although bite-sized by European standards, Trondheim is in fact Norway’s third largest city, and lies in the Trøndelag county where the Nidelva River empties into the Trondheimsfjord. The city was rebuilt according to a Baroque plan following a fire in the 17th century and is under the watch of the second largest cathedral in northern Europe.

From 1164 to 1906 this was where Norway’s kings were crowned, and the adjacent Archbishop’s Palace holds the country’s crown jewels, or Regalia of Norway.

Trondheim has more than 30,000 students, infusing the city with style and nightlife. And sightseers can saunter through the cute Bakklandet quarter, known for its quaint wooden warehouses and browse high-quality museums for decorative arts and antique musical instruments.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Trondheim :

1. Nidaros Cathedral

It’s hard to sum up the importance of the world’s northernmost Medieval cathedral.

Norway’s National Sanctuary is a Romanesque and Gothic church built from 1070 to 1300 on the burial place of Olav II of Norway, who lost his life at the Battle of Nilestad in 1030. A year after he died he was canonised as Saint Olav, the patron saint of Norway, and from that point on his grave became a venerated pilgrimage site for people from all over Northern Europe.

Norway’s kings were traditionally crowned at Nidaros Cathedral, while for sightseers the most famous image is the western facade, full of sculptures of saints and kings flanking a sublime rose window.

These tend to be newer than they look, dating from a 19th-century restoration and still being carved up to the 1980s.

The crypt under the nave has tomb monuments going back to the Middle Ages.

2. Ringve Museum

Posted on high ground, the Ringve Museum is in an 18th-century manor with views of both Trondheim and its fjord.

It was the childhood home of the 18th-century nobleman Peter Tordenskjold, and was acquired by the Bachke family following an auction in 1878. One son, Christian Anker Bachke moved in with his wife, the Russian Victoria Rostin Bachke.

The couple never had children but invested their fortune in musical instruments, building a collection that now numbers 1,500 pieces.

Informative guided tours are offered in summer, when, against gracefully furnished rooms named after composers, you can see an Amati violin from 1612, a spinet and clavichord from the 18th century, Hardanger fiddles and an extremely rare cecilium from the 19th century.

Make sure to take a turn in the 13-hectare botanical gardens around the museum.

3. Bakklandet

You can thank Trondheim’s 20th-century residents that this cute quarter on the east side of the Nidelva River is still here.

A new main road was due to be laid through Bakklandet in the 1960s, but long-term residents, students and architects all protested and the plans were shelved.

Between the Bakke Bridge and Old Town Bridge, Bakklandet is a small neighbourhood of painted wooden warehouses, which blossomed as Trondheim’s first suburb in the mid-17th century.

The buildings were both a place of work and living space for merchants and artisans, and on the river some of the wharfside buildings stand on wooden piles.

On Bakklandet’s cobblestone streets are galleries, design shops, cafes and restaurants with old-time wooden storefronts and ample outdoor seating on warmer days.

4. National Museum of Decorative Arts

Just a block from the Nidaros Cathedral, the National Museum of Decorative Arts has amassed a wealth of arts and crafts since it was founded in 1893. The present venue is from 1968 and can only display a fraction of its enormous reserve.

But you can marvel at Trøndelag silverware from the 16th and 17th centuries, Norwegian glassware from the 1700s and whole Art Nouveau interiors designed at the start of the 20th-century by the Belgian virtuoso Henry van de Velde.

These are just the basis for a fabulous Art Nouveau collection, while there are also works from the post-war “Scandinavian design” movement, jewellery and 20 carpets by the textile artist Hannah Ryggen.

5. Trøndelag Folk Museum

Eighty historic buildings from across Trøndelag have been moved to this outdoor museum.

The Trøndelag Folk Museum is one of the biggest attractions of its kind in Norway and is all the more atmospheric for the ruins of Sverresborg castle dominating the site.

Dating to Norway’s 12th-century Civil War era, the castle was the stronghold for Sverre of Norway who fought against Magnus V of Norway for the right to the throne.

Dating from around the same time as the ruins is the majestic Haltdalen stave church, going back to 1170. The ruins, historic town buildings (shops and local amenities) and rural monuments (mills and farmhouses) have a small cast of characters in traditional dress.

There’s also an indoor museum about folk culture in Trøndelag where you can peruse old crafts, furniture, costumes, home interiors, modes of transport and children’s toys.

6. Archbishop’s Palace Museum

Just south of the cathedral is the striking episcopal palace, around a big courtyard and with a tough Gothic gatehouse that has ogival portals.

The Archbishop’s Palace Museum is partly in a construction and grants a look inside the 1,000-year history of the cathedral and its diocese.

There are exciting architectural fragments like window tracery, as well as liturgical sculpture and the solemn soapstone interiors of the palace itself.

In the Middle Ages the bishops minted their own coins and you can see the mint just as it was discovered in an archaeological dig.

Also on show in a small room at the palace is the Royal Regalia, including the 200-year-old Crown of Norway, festooned with gemstones and crested with an amethyst cross.

7. Rockheim

A modern landmark for Trondheim, Rockheim is a museum for pop and rock music in an eye-catching venue.

A repurposed granary from 1918 has had an LED-clad cube fixed to its roof, with changing patterns and colours on its walls.

Full of touchscreens and multimedia, the permanent exhibition is a timeline of Norwegian popular music from the 50s to right now, and each room deals with a new decade.

All the way through you’re encouraged to get involved, testing your finger-work on an electric guitar, helped by a projection of the fabled Norwegian axeman Ronni Le Tekrø.

In the hip-hop room are turntables and breakdancing tutorials, while you can also create your own avatar to navigate 3D exhibits.

8. Kristiansten Fortress

On a hill above the right bank of the Nidelven River, Kristiansten Fortress was the main component of Trondheim’s new layout after the great city fire of April 1681.The fortress also helped plug a vulnerable spot in the east of Trondheim.

This was only put to the test once, in 1718 during the Great Northern War when it fended off an attack by Swedish forces led by the general Carl Gustaf Armfeldt.

In the 20th century the fortress saw a different kind of bloodshed when Norwegian patriots were executed here by the Germans, followed after the war by Nazi collaborators during the “legal purge in Norway”. You can go into the spartan, whitewashed defensive tower, the Donjonen, poke around the ramparts and view the city and river from the gun positions.

9. Old Town Bridge

As vantage points go, you can’t do much better than the pedestrian and cycle bridge crossing the Nidelva River at Bakklandet.

There has been a crossing at this place since 1681 when the Kristiansten Fort was being raised.

It was replaced in 1861 with the current emblematic structure, all the prettier for the Lykkens Portal, a wooden gate on the west side.

On the bridge you can see the cathedral spire and the rows of painted wooden warehouses on the riverfront.

Also historic is the excise house on the west side, today housing a kindergarten.

10. Torvet (Town Square)

Still a place for commerce and public events, Trondheim’s main square has been at its current site since the new city layout was drawn up by Johan Caspar de Cicignon in 1681. Immediately your gaze will land on the column in the centre, which has a statue of Olav Tryggvason, the first King of Norway, who founded Trondheim in the 10th century.

This monument is from 1921 and if you step back you’ll see that the column is part of an enormous sundial laid with cobblestones.

The southern end is packed with market stalls, selling Trondheim souvenirs, flowers and jewellery on the southwest corner, and groceries and specialty foods on the southeast side.

11. Trondheim Science Museum

In the confines of the old Norges Bank building is one of the new wave of science attractions promoting learning through interaction and play.

The museum has stations that explore topics like the human body, mathematics, weather, technology and agriculture in creative ways.

So kids can play “mindball”, which tests their ability to focus, give a weather forecast, take on a chess-playing robot and call on their sense of logic in a cargo-stacking simulator.

Aside from the permanent exhibition there’s also a chemistry lab, robot lab, “experiment club”, a schedule of fun lectures and a planetarium.

12. Munkholmen

Visible in the Trondheimsfjord near the mouth of the Nidelva River is an islet that has had a busy past for such a small place.

Munkholmen was where the head of both Haakon Sigurdsson, Norway’s 10th-century de facto ruler, and his killer, Sigurdsson’s slave Tormod Kark, were put on pikes as a warning to visitors.

After that, Munkholmen was a Benedictine monastery until this was dissolved in the Reformation.

In the 17th century it became a fort designed by the Luxembourgish military mastermind Johan Caspar von Cicignon.

In that time the fort was also a prison holding famous historical figures like Peder Griffenfeld, the statesman and confidant to King Christian V of Denmark, who would spend 18 years on the island after being accused of treason.

You can come to Munkholmen by boat in summer for the daily tour and treat yourself to coffee and cake at the cafe.

13. Tyholttårnet

Highest of all is the lookout from this radio tower erected in the southeast of the city in 1985. The Tyholttårnet is 124 metres tall, making it the tallest building in all of Norway.

At 74 metres there’s a revolving restaurant that makes one turn per hour, so you should get to see the whole of Trondheim and satisfying perspective of the fjord in one sitting.

If you just want the view there’s an observation deck on the level below the restaurant.

14. CycloCable

A few metres from the Old Town Bridge in Bakklandet is the world’s only ski lift for cyclists.

The CycloCable, formerly known as the Trampe bicycle lift, shuttles up a daunting hill with a 20% gradient from 07:00 to 20:00 every day.

This is a new, updated version of a lift that has been here in some form since 1993 and was invented by the Trondheim resident Jarle Wanvik who was sick of arriving at work exhausted after pedalling up the hill.

If you’re touring Trondheim by bike you could use the lift to get to the Kristiansten Fortress.

To work the lift, you push a start button and a foothold pops out of the ground, and this hauls you to the top, provided you can steer and keep your balance!

15. Pirbadet

Facing the Trondheimsfjord and looking across to Munkholmen from the pier is the largest indoor waterpark in Norway.

Just the ticket for rainy days, nearly all of Pirabadet’s attractions are in one cavernous hall, cleverly designed so that grown-ups can bathe in peace while kids can burn off some energy on slides and in the wave pool.

Serious swimmers can get their exercise here, while for relaxation there’s a “wellbeing pool”, a jacuzzi, saunas and a solarium.

Piradet also has a cafe and snack bar if you get peckish.

15 Best Things to Do in Trondheim (Norway):

Nidaros Cathedral
Ringve Museum
National Museum of Decorative Arts
Trøndelag Folk Museum
Archbishop’s Palace Museum
Kristiansten Fortress
Old Town Bridge
Torvet (Town Square)
Trondheim Science Museum
Tyholttårnet

Top 13 Best Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway Plus A Day Trip Tour Guide

Whether you are interested in discovering the historical sites of Norway or you dream about adventuring to the Arctic north to chase the spectacular Aurora Borealis, Trondheim is a fantastic destination.

Yes, Oslo is a great choice for culture aficionados, but Trondheim, the third-largest city in the country and Norway’s historic Viking capital, is also waiting for travelers with a great number of memorable surprises.

If you want to explore an explosive nightlife scene, see the largest medieval building in Scandinavia, get in touch with fascinating history, and admire the northern natural beauty, start planning your trip to Trondheim.

To get close to this spectacular city you need at least a week of wandering around.

However, if you don’t have so much time, three days would be enough to give you a healthy taste of the city and make you want to come back for more. Here is how you can spend your three days in Trondheim, Norway.

Don’t forget to pack: Lonely Planet Norway (Travel Guide)

13 Best Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Urban Beauty by Foot

As mentioned, Trondheim has a rich history and visiting its museum will get you closer to the city’s soul.

Yet, since the city is quite small, the best way to begin your journey is with a walk to remember. So, put on your comfortable shoes and start exploring it.

One of its most beautiful areas is the old city, known as Bakklandet. Make sure you don’t miss strolling its delightful streets and admiring the colorful wooden buildings, which used to be the homes of the working class.

Now, they are hosting interesting shops, inviting cafes, and restaurants.

The city itself is easy to navigate around. Think of it as a shape of a U with the open part pointing to the sea or the cruise port.

2. Check Out Scandinavia’s Largest Wooden Palace: Stiftsgården

With 140 rooms, Stiftsgården is late-baroque jewelry that should be on every traveler’s must-see list.

This imposing palace is now a royal office residence, but it was built with the purpose of being a private house. If you want to catch a glimpse of this fascinating landmark, you must join one of the tours available.

They begin every hour and they offer interesting and useful info every history aficionado must know.

3. Visit the Most Important Gothic Monument in Norway: The Nidaros Cathedral

Trondheim Norway - Nidaros Cathedral - Lina Stock

Visiting Trondheim without seeing the impressive Nidaros Cathedral is out of the question.

Known for being Scandinavia’s second-largest medieval cathedral and Norway’s most important Gothic monument, Nidaros protects Trondheim, standing in the middle of its city center.

Wander around freely inside its magnificent walls but, if you travel during the summer months, join a detailed tour and learn more about this interesting landmark.

End the day with a beer and a delicious dish in one of the many local pubs and restaurants. As mentioned, those in Bakklandet are a great option.

4. See the Hanseatic Houses

Trondheim Norway - Hanseatic Houses - Lina Stock

Not to miss in Trondheim is the historical Hanseatic district. The area features a canal that showcases a long row of brightly colored houses, some in disrepair but offering an amazing glimpse into the history of the city.

Photographers and tourists alike flock to the area for its picturesque qualities. You can also enjoy some great shopping and dining along the canal, so be sure to give yourself some time to really enjoy the area and views.

5. Have a Wonderful Journey into the Past: The Museum of Natural History and Archaeology

Panoramic view of beautiful city Trondheim, Norway

Whether you are a history enthusiast or less into studying the past, the Museum of Natural History and Archaeology is definitely a must-see.

Gain an understanding of the natural, as well as the human history of this area while exploring the compelling exhibits in this fascinating museum.

6. Visit an Iconic Landmark: The Kristiansten Fortress

Built after the great fire, in 1681, The Kristiansten Fortress is an emblematic landmark that must be on your list. The fortress saved Trondheim from the Swedes at the beginning of the 18th century.

Then, the Nazis used it as an execution place. In addition to having great historical importance, the Kristiansten Fortress is the perfect place to admire the breathtaking view of the city and its superb surroundings.

7. Relax on a Charmin Island: Munkholmen

Munkholmen is an islet north of Trondheim, Norway. The islet has served as a place of execution, a monastery, a fortress, prison.

Located close to the city center, the delightful Munkholmen used to be the place where the Vikings held their executions.

At present, the island is a fantastic relaxing area for both locals and travelers.

You can easily get to the lovely island by boat and, if the weather permits, you can enjoy a cup of coffee on the small beach or at the cozy cafe that is open during the summer months.

Don’t forget to pack your Lonely Planet Norway (Travel Guide)

8. See the City Differently: Rent a Bike

things to do in Trondheim Norway - Bymarka Nature Reserve - Lina Stock

There are more bike lanes in Trondheim than in any other Norwegian city, so you better take advantage of this aspect and explore the beautifully arranged streets riding a bike.

And if you want to have a unique experience, check out the bike lift located in the old city center.

There aren’t too many people who end up using it successfully, but some have fun trying, while others enjoy watching the more courageous ones fail.

9. Learn About the Norwegian Music at the Rockheim Museum

If you want to have some fun while getting closer to the history of Norwegian music, visit the national museum of pop and rock music.

At the Rockheim, you can learn all about the history of music in Norway from the 1950s to the present days. Check out the main exhibition, called the ‘Time Tunnel’, and catch a glimpse of the most important artists.

If you are a music history aficionado, make sure you visit the changing exhibitions, as well.

10. Have a Memorable Outdoor Adventure: Walk or Bike the Trails Around the City

Bikers on a hiking/biking trail in Trondheim Norway

Trondheim is an absorbing city and strolling its captivating streets warms even the coldest hearts.

But if you love outdoor activities and you want to admire the natural beauty surrounding the city, walking the trails around it will definitely enhance your city break.

Ladestien and Nidelv Tien are two of the many trails that can easily make an adventurer fall in love.

Another place that you shouldn’t miss if you are looking for outdoor adventure in Trondheim is the closely located Bymarka Nature Preserve .

Just outside of the city limits, this nature preserve is huge and plays host to miles of hiking trails, fishing lakes, camping spots, and bike trails. It is the go-to place for locals looking to escape the city.

11. Sverresborg Folk Museum

David Stock of Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel Blog exploring the Sverresborg Folk Museum in Trondheim Norway

The Sverresborg Folk Museum is placed around the ruins of King Sverre’s castle, which dates back to 1183.

The open-air cultural museum is among the largest in all of Norway and features a live depiction of an 18th-century city center and farm village.

A tour of the museum is interactive and you will be guided through stories of the people that once occupied the buildings that stand today.

Viator offers many great tours in Trondheim Norway . Below are the top 2 tours you can not miss when visiting Trondheim, Norway.

Segway Tours Trondheim
Romsdalsstigen Via Ferrata – Introwall

Day Trips from Trondheim, Norway

Travelers who plan to spend more than a couple of days in this Norwegian piece of heaven should consider enjoying a day trip to visit the beauty around Trondheim.

12. If Given the Occasion, Why Not Visit Hell?

Hell Railway Station in Hell, a Norwegian village near Trondheim

Located very close to the Trondheim Airport Vaernes, Hell is a village all travelers who visit this area want to go to.

There might not be much to do around here, but most people just want to step inside its borders for a moment and take a photo of their “unique experience in Hell”.

You will see visitors getting off the train just to take a picture by the station sign. However, if you choose to visit Hell, you should also check out the rock carvings at Helleristninger. They say they date back to the Stone Age. Interesting, right?

13. Visit the “Norwegian Wild West”, Roros

day trips from Trondheim Norway - Roros - Wild West of Norway

Considered by many as one of the most beautiful villages in Norway and described by some as the “Wild West of Norway”, Roros is a Unesco World Heritage-listed site that will instantly amaze your eyes and conquer your soul.

Surrounded by hills and forests, the former mining community is now focusing on local food and sustainable tourism. Stroll the dreamy alleys of this fairy-tale village and indulge in the contagiously laid-back atmosphere it has.

Trondheim, Norway Planning Tips

Where to stay – trondheim hotels.

Whether you want to stay in a hotel, hostel, apartment or you feel adventurous enough to choose a campsite, Trondheim is welcoming you with a great number of options.

Located in the heart of the city, Scandic Bakklandet is a fantastic choice for people who are interested in an elegant and warm hotel.

In addition to comfortable rooms, the hotel offers its guests the chance to indulge in the tasty food served at the restaurant, join the gym, and relax in the inviting bar while enjoying a tasty drink.

Book your stay today at the Scandic Bakkladet

History aficionados are invited to stay at the Nidaros Pilgrimsgard hotel. Little but delightful, this hotel is located in the old city center, right next to the enchanting Nidaros Cathedral.

It is definitely a great option for people who want to be in the middle of everything while visiting Trondheim.

Book your stay today at the Nidaros Pilgrimsgard

And if you find the hotels in Trondheim too expensive for your budget, check out the accommodations available on the world-famous Airbnb .

In addition to finding a great apartment or a private room, you might also meet a friendly host who can enhance your trip with useful local tips.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Where to Eat – Trondheim Restaurants

While sleeping in a comfortable bed and visiting the most important landmarks are important aspects of your trip, what you eat is crucial to an enjoyable vacation. You can’t do too much on an empty stomach, can you?

If you want to have a memorable lunch, go to Baklandet Skydsstation and let your taste buds go wild!

Many locals go to this restaurant to indulge in the herring buffet they often have for lunch. However, if this is not your cup of tea, don’t worry, because there are other amazing dishes on the menu.

On a sunny day, Kafé Skuret is the best place for a tasty seafood dish. Located on the seafront, the pub has a great atmosphere, serves mouth-watering food, and offers a flawless service.

In case you’re not hungry, just sit and enjoy one of the tempting local beers.

And if you want to enjoy some of the best traditional Norwegian dishes, eat at The Tavern .

There is no better place to intensify your encounter with the Norwegian culture than at this local restaurant, indulging in the mouth-watering traditional food.

How to Get To Trondheim, Norway

Trondheim is the third-largest city in Norway and a place that is slowly gaining popularity with visitors to Norway.

Officially a University city, the city is lively with a lot to offer. It is accessible in many ways including planes from the major cities of Oslo or Bergen, by car, by train, by ferry, and by cruise ship.

HOW WE DID IT

We explored Norway’s coastline on an expedition cruise, this allowed us to explore sleepy fishing villages that still had fish drying on the racks next to the seaside, small off the beaten path islands that don’t see other cruise ships and many more of Norway’s natural wonders.

This kind of itinerary was made possible by choosing to cruise on a small ship versus a mega-ship. We were able to get into places where few other travelers visit, let alone other cruise ships. Many of the places we visited are not possible to visit unless you are on a small ship.

Our cruise started above the Arctic Circle in Tromsø, sailed up to Nordkapp and then headed all the way down the coast to end in Bergen.

Trondheim was the only city to stop our cruise made, outside of our start and endpoints.

Ready to plan your own adventure in Norway? Have a look at the exact itinerary we did on our 11 days Cruising the Norwegian Fjords in Depth tour with G Adventures. Note, we spent several extra days in Bergen after the cruise and also planned our hike to Trolltunga separate from the cruise.

Check prices for a Norway Cruise with G Adventures

Other Great Adventures in Norway

Northern lights & arctic circle by rail – Oslo to Tromso 9 days
Norway fjord trekking – Round trip from Bergen 7 days ** This includes Trolltunga (the “Troll’s Tongue”) a world’s top 100 travel adventure! **

Did you like this story? Share it !

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “Top 13 Best Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway Plus A Day Trip Tour Guide”

I have yet to venture to Norway. This post has made me add it to the top of my bucket list. Thanks!

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Top Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway - Trondheim Must-See Attractions

Things to do in trondheim.

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Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Nidaros Cathedral

2. Bakklandet

3. Ringve Museum

4. Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum

5. Kristiansten Fortress

6. Old Town Bridge

8. Rockheim

9. Graakallbanen

10. Tyholttarnet

11. Forsvarsmuseet Rustkammeret

12. Erkebispegarden (Archbishop's Palace)

13. Stiftsgarden

14. Munkholmen

15. Vitensenteret i Trondheim

16. Church of Our Lady

17. Ladestien - Hiking Trail

18. Pirbadet

19. Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum

20. Jewish Museum Trondheim

21. Bondens Marked

22. Trondheim par3golf

23. Trondhjem Mikrobryggeri

24. The Crown Regalia

25. Olav Tryggvason Monument

26. Elgsethytta

27. Reality Adventures

28. Sykkelheisen Trampe

29. NTNU University Museum

30. Salamander Night

What travellers are saying.

12 Things To Do In Trondheim, Norway

Traveling to Trondheim, Norway, but you’re not sure what there is to do in town? Then you’re definitely in the right place because this detailed guide to the top things to do in Trondheim will tell you all about the city’s best-known attractions!

The city boasts excellent museums, the world’s northernmost gothic cathedral, and an opportunity to see the Northern Lights if you visit at just the right time. Attractions in Trondheim vary from stunning examples of medieval architecture to amazing modern Norwegian art, so there’s certainly lots to keep you occupied, regardless of what you’re most interested in.

So, read on to see all the best attractions that are an absolute must for all travelers who want to thoroughly explore Trondheim!

Explore Bakklandet and Gamle Bybro

Bakklandet is a charming Trondheim neighborhood best known for its colorful pastel houses and trendy waterfront restaurants. Gamle Bybro is the famous Old Town Bridge that must be crossed to reach Bakklandet from the city center.

The bridge itself is iconic and one of the most famous landmarks in this Norweigan city. It’s best known for the red portals, which look absolutely amazing both in person and in photographs. Gamle Bybro is also a great place to get some great photos of the Bakklandet’s pastel houses, as well as to just enjoy some scenic views.

It’s worth noting that there aren’t any fees to cross the bridge or anything. This popular Trondheim attraction is completely free to discover, so a must for all travelers on a tighter budget in northern Norway .

Visit The Ringve Museum

The Ringve Music Museum is Norway’s national museum dedicated to music and musical instruments. It’s situated on a farm outside of downtown Trondheim, and the collection is divided into two buildings – the manor and the barn houses.

The Manor House is the larger of the two buildings, so it houses more exhibits. Every room is dedicated to a certain famous musician and features the instruments that artists favored. The rooms in the Manor House are named after Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, and Adelina Patti, among others.

The Barn is divided into just two parts. One part houses instruments relating to western classical and pop music, while the other holds various folk instruments from countries all over the planet.

Right next to the museum is the Ringve Botanical Garden. It’s definitely worth a quick visit if you’re already in the area since it’s a free attraction. It boasts many beautiful plants and flowers, which are best experienced in the summer when everything is in full bloom. You’ll also see quite a few interesting wooden carvings, as well as lots of ducks around the pond in the garden.

Discover Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum

The Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum is an open-air heritage museum. It’s one of a few museums in this style in Norway, and it’s certainly an attraction worth visiting if you want to see some stunning old buildings.

This Trondheim museum boasts more than 80 buildings, some of which were constructed as early as the 12th century. It beautifully illustrates the way of life in Trondheim from a different era, and it’s perfect if you want to learn more about the history of this Norwegian city.

Opt for a guided tour, and you’ll be told all sorts of stories about the old ways of Trondheim. There’s even a town square at this folk museum, as well as buildings that were set up as replicas of ancient businesses and offices. You can visit an old dentist’s office, go inside an apothecary store, and even an old hat shop.

Some exhibits at the museum are organized by the different phases in one’s life, so there are sections dedicated to children, teenagers, young adults, etc. It’s certainly one of the most interesting museums in the city, especially for people who are genuinely interested in learning more about the history and culture of Trondheim.

Tour The Nidaros Cathedral

Nidaros Cathedral is one of Trondheim’s most famous attractions. The medieval cathedral is not just a famous landmark in the town of Trondheim, but it’s also the destination of Norway ’s best-known long-distance hikes. Pilgrimage on the St. Olav Ways is a series of nine long-distance hikes, all of which lead to the Nidaros Cathedral.

The famous cathedral dates back to the 11th century and it boasts a Gothic architectural style. It was constructed on the burial site of St. Olav, which is why so many pilgrimage paths lead pilgrims right to the cathedral. Also, it’s worth noting that this is the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral, which is pretty cool.

It took more than 200 years to build the Nidaros Cathedral – construction started in the mid-11th century, but it wasn’t finished until the early 14th century. Other work was done on the Trondheim cathedral in the following years, with the most recent reconstructions finishing in 2001.

The facade of this church is certainly impressive, but the interior is equally astounding. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to go inside the cathedral and see the ornamented interior – plan a visit during an organ concert if at all possible, to truly be amazed.

Stop By The National Museum of Decorative Arts

The National Museum of Decorative Arts is situated in the heart of Trondheim and it’s one of the most popular museums in the city. It boasts permanent and temporary collections that showcase decorative and industrial artworks from Norway and all over the world.

The objects at the museum date from the 15th century to the modern day, and the collection is truly varied. There’s everything from a Japanese samurai armor that dates back to the Edo period, to an entire room filled with objects that were staples in the fifties. The museum is absolutely fascinating, and if you really get into the exhibits, it can take you quite a while to explore every corner of the museum’s three floors.

It’s worth noting that this museum features 4-5 temporary exhibits every year. If you happen to visit Trondheim during a time when there’s a temporary exhibit at the National Museum of Decorative Arts, definitely don’t skip this famous attraction!

Panoramic Views At Tyholttårnet

Tyholttårnet is a radio tower in Trondheim. It’s 124 meters tall, which officially makes it the tallest structure in the entire country. The radio tower boasts a restaurant and an observation deck, both of which are worth visiting if you want to experience some epic panoramic views.

The vistas from the radio tower stretch over downtown Trondheim, all the way to the spectacular Trondheim fjord. The restaurant at the radio tower is revolving, and it manages to complete a single revolution in one hour. Grab lunch and some drinks, and you’ll get to enjoy fabulous 360° views of the city of Trondheim and the stunning nature that surrounds it.

It’s worth noting that the famous radio tower is situated outside the Trondheim city center, but you can easily reach it by public transport. The same goes for any attractions that are not within walking distance of the city center – Trondheim is well connected with busses, so you shouldn’t have any problems reaching the tourist attractions that are a bit further away.

Walk Around The Kristiansten Fortress

Image courtesy of edk7

Kristiansten Fortress is one of the most famous tourist attractions in town and is usually one of the first stops on a sightseeing tour for most people who visited Trondheim. It’s situated in the eastern part of the town, overlooking downtown Trondheim and offering some spectacular panoramic views.

The fortress has a rich history – it was built after the great fire of 1861, and it helped save the city of Trondheim from Swedish conquest in 1718. With that, the Kristiansten Fortress pretty much fulfilled its purpose, and in 1816 it was decommissioned by the then king Charles XIV John.

The Nazi forces used it during the second world war, and they executed no less than 23 Norweigan patriots inside the fortress. In the late 20th century, Kristiansten Fortress was turned into a museum and its gates were opened to the public. Entrance into the fortress is free and the gates are open every day of the year, so you can visit at any time that is convenient for you.

Visit Archbishop’s Palace & Museum

Situated just south of the iconic Nidaros Cathedral, a 13th-century stone castle houses the Archbishop’s Palace & Museum. For several centuries this castle served as the official residence of the Archbishop of Nidaros, but nowadays it’s a popular tourist attraction with an impressive museum.

Two palace buildings burned down in the 1980s, which ultimately lead to some of the largest excavations in Norway , in the 1990s. The foundations of more than 100 buildings were uncovered, as well as 160,000 other archeological finds. Many of those finds can be seen at the palace museums, but by far the most impressive finding on these grounds was the presence of three mints atop one another.

There are three museums on the grounds of the Archbishop’s Palace, and they’re all worth exploring. The most interesting attraction in all three museums is definitely the King’s Crown. It’s displayed in the west wing, along with other Norwegian royal regalia.

Also, it’s worth noting that you can get a combined ticket that covers entrance into the Nidaros Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the royal regalia exhibit. This is cheaper than buying individual tickets for the attractions, so it’s best to just tour all the attractions at Kongsgårdsgata on the same visit.

Shop Traditional Outfits At Husfliden Trondheim

Husfliden is a store in the center of Trondheim famous for selling Bunad. That’s the Norweigan umbrella term for both folk costumes and traditional rural clothes that date from the 18th-20th century. The store is a great place to shop for souvenirs, especially if you’d like to buy high-quality traditional Norweigan clothing.

They have an amazing selection of woolen sweaters and an even better selection of yarns, making the store an absolute must for anyone who’s into knitting and crochet. Also, in case you packed a bit too light for Trondheim and you’re in need of some warmer clothes, this is by far the best store to visit.

It’s worth noting that the Husfliden store is a bit pricey, but the top-notch quality of the garments undoubtedly justifies the higher prices.

Explore Music Memorabilia At Rockheim

Rockheim is a heritage museum dedicated to Norweigan music, and it’s an absolute must for all music lovers. The exhibits at the museum are separated by decade and genre, and although the main focus of the museum is Norwegian music, you can appreciate the exhibits even without knowing too much about the country’s most popular artists.

Some highlights of the Rockheim museum include the exhibits dedicated to rock and the metal room. Also, it’s worth noting that the exhibits include various instruments and even old technology that was popular in music once upon a time. You’ll see a jukebox and a cassette player, in addition to some newer technologies.

How long you need to explore this museum largely depends on just how interested you are in the exhibits. You can probably do a quick tour in less than an hour, but if you really get into the different exhibits, it could easily take you more than 3-4 hours to see every corner of the six floors of this museum.

See How The Royals Live At Stiftsgarden

Stiftsgarden is the royal residence in the heart of Trondheim, and an attraction you can’t miss if you just go on a walk around the city center. What’s fascinating about this building is that it’s made from wood, and it’s one of the largest wooden buildings in Northern Europe.

It’s important to note that the palace halls are open to the public only in the summer unless there is a royal visit. Guided tours of the palace are available, and they’re great for getting to know more about this fascinating building and its incredible history.

You won’t see much period furniture inside the royal residence. There are only two Roccoco-style stoves from the mid-18th century, and most other furniture in the building dates to the 19th century. Most of the furniture was acquired in anticipation of the coronation of King Haakon VII and Queen Maud in the early 20th century.

Soak In The Sun In Solsiden

Located east of the Trondheim city center, Solsiden is a popular neighborhood best known for the post-industrial spirit embedded with a dash of contemporary architectural accents. Solsiden is Norwegian for “the sunny side”, which is an apt description for this popular Trondheim neighborhood.

The busy neighborhood was built on the grounds of a former shipyard, which used to be one of the largest shipbuilding companies in all of Norway. There are still some boats in the harbor nowadays, and an afternoon walk along the waterfront promenade will allow you to bask in the elusive Norwegian sun while admiring the remnants of Solsiden’s ship-building history.

The popular neighborhood also boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes with outdoor terraces, where you can enjoy the pretty harbor views while tasting the local delicacies.

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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Things to do in trondheim, explore popular experiences, ways to tour trondheim.

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Trondheim Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

Explore the beautiful nature of Trondheim

See the city power-walk

Trondheim's Inner Circle: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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Half-Day Highlights of Trondheim by Bus and City Walk

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COMMENTS

27 Things To Do In Trondheim, Norway
Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim, Norway. 6. Royal Regalia. Another hidden gem in the complex is the small museum that houses Norway's crown regalia, including the stunning King's crown made of gold, amethysts, pearls, and tourmaline. There is also a small exhibition covering the history of Norway's Royal Family.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Trondheim
See way to experience (1) 5. Kristiansten Fortress. 536. Military Museums. Kristiansten Fortress is an important part of the City of Trondheim's identity, and an area with excellent environmental qualities. Kristiansten Fortress is often used for various cultural events …. See ways to experience (6) 2023.
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Trondheim (UPDATED 2024)
Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum. 232. History Museums. Open air museum with more than 80 buildings from Trondheim and the Trondelag area. Beautiful surroundings, and from the ruins of King Sverre's Castle you have a wonderful view over the city and the…. See way to experience (1) 5. Kristiansten Fortress. 536.
Attractions and Places To See around Trondheim
There are plenty of places to see and visit around Trondheim. Whether you love hiking or cycling, Trondheim is a region where 20 hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today. 1. Nidarosdom. 2.
15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Trondheim
Places to Visit near Trondheim: While you're considering things to do in Norway, you'll certainly want to see one of its famously beautiful fjords. The second biggest fjord in the country, and to many eyes the most beautiful, is the Hardangerfjord, a popular place to go since the 1800s for its dramatic scenery.
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 ...
39 Fun Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway
Visit Nidaros Cathedral. Explore Trondheim with a local. Take the tram up to Lian. Walk around Bymarka. Have a picnic at Kristiansten Fortress. Go swimming in the fjord. Watch the Northern Lights. Eat something with seafood (or just have a beer) at Kafé Skuret. Visit Trondheim's many trendy coffee shops.
50 fantastic things to do in Trondheim, Norway: hear it from a local
Today I am sharing the 50 fantastic things to do or see in Trondheim. Winter sky in Trondheim. Table of Contents. Things to do/see in Trondheim. ... There are two locations got Trondheim Kunstmuseum (TMK), one near the Nidarosdomen called TMK Bispegata, and another one near Solsiden, TMK Gramolna. They have very cool temporary exhibitions.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Trondheim
4. Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum. 232. History Museums. Open air museum with more than 80 buildings from Trondheim and the Trondelag area. Beautiful surroundings, and from the ruins of King Sverre's Castle you have a wonderful view over the city and the…. See way to experience (1) 5. Kristiansten Fortress.
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Trondheim (UPDATED 2024)
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Trondheim (UPDATED 2024) Europe. Norway. Central Norway. Trøndelag. Trondheim Municipality. Trondheim. Places to visit in Trondheim.
Activities & Attractions
Activities & Attractions. Travel isn't just about the destination, it's about the experiences you have. Whether you're visiting Trondheim for a day or a week, there are many things you can experience to take advantage of the rich history, architecture, art and nature. Many of our most treasured attractions are within walking distance or a ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Trondheim
Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway: See Tripadvisor's 56,140 traveler reviews and photos of Trondheim tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in May. ... This is a beautiful place in the hills above Trondheim. I walked around the lake and it was very scenic and peaceful. I have to say, as an American from the West Coast, I ...
15 Best Things to Do in Trondheim (Norway)
1. Nidaros Cathedral. It's hard to sum up the importance of the world's northernmost Medieval cathedral. Norway's National Sanctuary is a Romanesque and Gothic church built from 1070 to 1300 on the burial place of Olav II of Norway, who lost his life at the Battle of Nilestad in 1030.
Plan your trip to Trondheim
Paddle along the Nidelven river, go for a stroll along Trondheim's cobbled streets aligned with niche shops, explore famous attractions such as the Nidaros Cathedral and Archbishop's Palace, and tuck into locally produced goodies at the city's many restaurants. There are many highlights in Trondheim ...
Topp 10 things to do in Trondheim
Here are tips for 10 things you just have to dowhen you are in Trondheim: 1. The Nidaros CathedralIs a Must. In the heart of Trondheim is Nidaros Cathedral - an ornate Gothic masterpiece, Norway's national shrine and northern Europe's most important pilgrimage site. The cathedral is built over the tomb of Olav the Holy, the Viking king ...
13 Best Things to do in Trondheim, Norway
8. See the City Differently: Rent a Bike. There are more bike lanes in Trondheim than in any other Norwegian city, so you better take advantage of this aspect and explore the beautifully arranged streets riding a bike. And if you want to have a unique experience, check out the bike lift located in the old city center.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Trondheim
Saint John, Canada435 contributions. Impressive stained glass windows. Review of: Nidaros Cathedral. Written 23 May 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. yp17. Houston, TX183 contributions. Relaxing Walk.
The locals' guide to Trondheim: top insider tips
Bakklandet: This area is the very heart of Trondheim. My top tip for delicious food and drinks is Baklandet Skydsstasjon, a peaceful little place in a building that is estimated to have been built in 1791. Kulturkvartalet: Gamle Bybro connects Bakklandet with Kulturkvartalet, which consists of a cluster of cultural institutions.
Welcome to Trondheim
Trondheim is a place where creativity and innovation are fused together to deliver great events, exciting places to explore and cutting-edge advancements that are globally acclaimed. An undisputed leader in innovation, the city has become synonymous with a slew of success stories, particularly in the fields of technology, science and medicine.
12 Things To Do In Trondheim, Norway ⋆ Expert World Travel
Then you're definitely in the right place because this detailed guide to the top things to do in Trondheim will tell you all about the city's best-known attractions! The city boasts excellent museums, the world's northernmost gothic cathedral, and an opportunity to see the Northern Lights if you visit at just the right time.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Trondheim (Updated 2024)
536. Military Museums. Kristiansten Fortress is an important part of the City of Trondheim's identity, and an area with excellent environmental qualities. Kristiansten Fortress is often used for various cultural events …. See ways to experience (6) 2023. 6. Old Town Bridge. 1,330.
THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Trondheim
75. Trams. By miniman2804. Take the tram from central Trondheim to the end of the line in Lian. 11. Erkebispegarden (Archbishop's Palace) 230. Speciality Museums. By revdmike.
Sihtseeing in Trondheim
Visit Fjordbuda Trondheimand House Of Norwayfor lokal and national souvenirs, gifts and popular Norwegian brands. Both are centrally located in Trondheim city center. Get inspired for your next escape: Instagram. Facebook. YouTube. New week, new opportunities. Have a great week, ev.

The Top 20 Attractions around Trondheim

Gamle Bybro (1861)

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Kristiansten Fortress

First bicycle lift in the world

Estenstadhytta

Explore the most popular Tours around Trondheim

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Trondheim

1. Nidaros Cathedral

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Nidaros Cathedral

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Kristiansten Fortress

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Ringve Museum

Trondheim Kunstmuseum and The National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design

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Solsiden District

Tyholttårnet

Stiftsgarden

Trondheim Maritime Museum

Ladestien Trail

Skiing at Fjellseter Gråkallen

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The Best Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway

Walk through Bakklandet

Take photos from Gamle Bybroa (the Old Town Bridge)

Visit Nidaros Cathedral

Explore Trondheim with a local

Take the tram up to Lian

Walk around Bymarka

Have a picnic at Kristiansten Fortress

Go swimming in the fjord

Watch the Northern Lights

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

Visit Trondheim’s many trendy coffee shops

Have a meal at Kalas & Canasta

Have a meal at Troll

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

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

Watch an Arsenal game at the Three Lions pub

Have a drink with locals at Bobby’s Bar

Eat some soft serve ice cream

Rent a bike

Watch cyclists try to use to bike lift

Go thrift shopping

Wander through Møllenberg

Check out the record shops in Trondheim

Eat lunch at Baklandet Skydsstation

Take a walk along the river

Visit Svartlamoen, or “Little Christiania”

Rockheim Museum

Take the ferry to Munkholmen

Sunbathe on Korsvika Beach

Sample the local beer

And then try some Linie Aquavit

Check out the Christmas Market!

Go cross-country skiing in Bymarka

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

Get the bus to Ikea

Browse through Norwegian crafts at Husfliden

Visit the Trøndelag Folkemuseum

Eat at The Tavern

Go kayaking in the river

Eat at Solsiden – maybe