This Coastal City Is Known for Its Colorful Wharf Houses — and It’s the Perfect Place To See the Northern Lights
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Trondheim, Norway, is a charming city on the picturesque Trondheim Fjord, known for its stunning architecture and scenic views. From the iconic Nidaros Cathedral to the historic Kristiansten Fortress, it offers an unforgettable blend of culture, nature, and adventure.
Whether you’re admiring Nidaros Cathedral, wandering through Bakklandet’s cobbled streets, or trying local delicacies at Ravnkloa Market, Trondheim is full of authentic experiences. From historic landmarks to breathtaking fjord views, it is a must-visit destination in Norway.
These activities were handpicked based on traveler reviews, local recommendations, and cultural significance to give you a well-rounded experience of Trondheim. We looked at top-rated sites, consulted local guides and resources, and included unique spots that highlight the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
The goal? To create a balanced itinerary that covers both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences — so that you see Trondheim through a traveler’s eyes and a local’s heart.
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Top Hotels in Trondheim
Here are some of Trondheim’s best hotels:
- Luxury: Thon Hotel Nidaros
- Mid-range: Radisson Blu Royal Garden Hotel
- Budget: Scandic Bakklandet
Must-Do Activities
- Visit Nidaros Cathedral – Nidaros Cathedral is the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral.
- Explore the city by boat – A boat tour allows you to see and learn about Trondheim from a different perspective.
- Walk across the Old Town Bridge – One of the city’s most historic landmarks, the Old Town Bridge offers magnificent city views.
Visit Nidaros Cathedral

Nidaros Cathedral is one of Norway’s most important landmarks. Constructed between 1070 and 1300, it is the country’s national shrine. It is also the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral and one of Northern Europe’s most significant pilgrimage sites.
With such importance, it’s no wonder visiting Nidaros Cathedral is one of Trondheim’s top things to do. A Gothic masterpiece, the cathedral will blow you away with its ornate architecture and fascinating history. For starters, the cathedral is built over the tomb of Olav the Holy, the Viking King who Christianized Norway.
Admire the tall spire and intricately carved sculptures before entering the cathedral, which features a vast hall, enormous ceilings, and sparkling stained-glass windows.
Travel Tips
- Visit the St. Olav Pilgrimage Route: If you have time, walk part of the St. Olav Pilgrimage route. It connects important sites related to King Olav’s legacy.
- Plan for a Sunday Service: If you’re there on a Sunday, try to attend a service. The choir and organ music are incredible and add to the experience.
Explore the City by Boat

One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Trondheim is from the water. A sightseeing boat trip along the Nidelva River and Trondheimsfjord is an excellent way to see more of the city in less time. Not to mention, it’s also an incredibly relaxing way to travel.
Trondheim City Boat offers several boat tours. Most include time on the river and the fjord, but you can also book separate tours. We recommend the two-hour boat tour that includes both.
You’ll travel in a traditional wooden boat with an expert guide who will tell you everything about the places you see. Highlights of the trip include Nidaros Cathedral, Bryggerekka, and Munkholmen.
Travel Tips
- Try the Fjord Fish: Onboard, you might find snacks or meals. If they offer local fish, like salmon or cod, give it a try. It’s a delicious way to taste Trondheim’s coastal cuisine.
- Sit on the upper deck for the best views: If possible, sit on the upper deck. You’ll get the best view of the cathedral and the fjord.
Walk Across the Old Town Bridge

The Old Town Bridge is one of Trondheim’s most historic landmarks. It was constructed in 1681 by Johan Caspar von Cicignon following the great fire of Trondheim. Also known as Gamle Bybro, the bridge crosses the Nidelva River, connecting Kjøpmannsgata to the Bakklandet neighborhood.
The bridge was initially made of wood and supported by stone piers. An iron gate guarded the city. However, Carl Adolf Dahl reconstructed it in 1861.
Walking along the bridge lets you take in a small part of Tronheim’s rich history. It also allows you to admire some of the best city views. You can take epic photographs of Trondheim’s vibrant houses from the bridge.
Travel Tips
- Avoid Rush Hour for Peaceful Photos: The bridge can get busy, especially during rush hour. Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for fewer people and better photo opportunities.
- Take a Detour to the Iron Gate: If you have time, walk to where the old iron gate used to stand.
- Read the historical plaques: As you walk, keep an eye out for the plaques along the bridge. They provide information about its history and the fires that led to its construction.
Explore the Bakklandet Neighborhood

Seeing as though the Old Town Bridge crosses over to the Bakklandet neighborhood, it would be rude not to explore. The Bakklandet neighborhood is arguably the most beautiful part of Trondheim. This picture-perfect area is famed for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and rich history.
Once known as a working-class area with poor living conditions, Bakllandet is now one of the most highly sought-after neighborhoods. Some traditional wooden buildings in or around Bakklandet date back to the 18th century.
You’ll likely spend most of your time in the neighborhood, photographing the buildings and visiting popular attractions such as Sukker Design, Gaven, and the Rabbit Hole.
Travel Tips
- Bring comfortable shoes: The cobblestone streets can be tricky to walk on, especially if you’re walking around all day. A good pair of sneakers or sturdy shoes will make a big difference.
- Try the local coffee: There are some amazing cafés in Bakklandet. I loved Kaffebrenneriet at Bakklandet 2 for its cozy vibe and excellent coffee.
Learn More About Trondheim at Kristiansten Fortress

Kristiansten Fortress is one of Trondheim’s most famous landmarks. It’s located on a hill east of the city and was built in 1681 after the great fire to protect the city from attack. In 1718, the fortress saved the city from Sweden’s conquest.
Nazi forces also used it during World War II. Tragically, 23 Norwegian patriots were executed inside the fortress. Today, Kristiansten Fortress still stands proudly guarding Trondheim.
Aside from its fascinating history, Kristiansten Fortress offers spectacular views of Trondheim and its surroundings. The Fortress Trail provides an excellent combination of natural scenery, stunning views, and historical insight.
The museum and dungeon are the main attractions inside the fortress. You’ll come away knowing much more about the fortress and Trondheim.
Travel Tips
- Visit the Museum Inside: Don’t skip the museum inside the fortress. It’s small but packed with interesting info. Entry is free with your ticket.
- Climb the Tower: You can go up the tower for a panoramic view of Trondheim. It’s worth the climb, and the view is amazing.
Have Fun at Pirbadet

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Pirbadet, Norway’s largest indoor swimming pool, is one of the best places to visit in Trondheim with children. This exciting attraction offers fun for the entire family and includes swimming pools, wave pools, therapeutic pools, water slides, and more. You’re all but guaranteed a hugely entertaining time with your family.
Whether you want to relax, swim like an Olympian, or play games in the water, you’ll find something you enjoy at Pirbadet. Keen swimmers can train in the training pool. Couples can relax in the health spa, and children can enjoy climbing the swimming pool mountain and the overwater rock wall.
Travel Tips
- Arrive Early for Less Crowds: If you want to enjoy Pirbadet without too many people, try to get there right when it opens. You’ll have more space, especially in the pools.
Rockheim

Rockheim is one of Trondheim’s best museums. It’s also Norway’s National Museum for Popular Music, making it an excellent place to visit if you love all things music-related. Opened in 2010, the museum teaches visitors about music from the 1950s to the present.
The history and stories of Norwegian music are brilliantly communicated through interactive exhibits featuring realistic sets, hands-on activities, and audio guides. The museum’s permanent exhibit, The Time Tunnel, takes visitors through modern Norwegian musical and cultural history. Visitors can play music videos, sounds, and images in the exhibit.
Rockheim also features a fascinating gallery and a Hall of Fame with many famous faces and moments from Norwegian music.
Travel Tips
- Use the Audio Guides: The audio guides are helpful.
- Visit the Café: The café in the museum is a great place to relax after exploring. Grab a coffee and snack while enjoying the view of Trondheim’s harbor.
- Opening times: 10 AM – 4 PM, Tuesday – Friday. 11 AM – 5 PM, Saturday – Sunday. Monday closed. Entry fee: NOK 170 (USD 15).
Shop Until You Drop in the Solsiden Senter

One of the best tourist attractions in Trondheim for shopaholics is the Solsiden Senter. Located in an industrial-style building on the waterfront, this shopping center is jam-packed with shops and cafes. There are over 50 individual shops to explore.
Whether you want to buy new clothes for your wardrobe, jewelry for your partner, or Lego for your children, Solsiden Senter has it. The best way to visit the shopping center is to simply walk around and pop into the shops you like the look of. Afterward, grab a delicious cup of coffee and some fresh bread from Godt Brød Solsiden.
Notable shops you can look for include Brikkebutikken, Boys of Europe, and Queens.
Travel Tips
- Explore the Waterfront for Scenic Views: After shopping, take a stroll along the waterfront. The views of the river and city are beautiful, especially during sunset. It’s just outside the shopping center.
- Eat at Dromedar Kaffebar: If you want another great spot for coffee, check out Dromedar Kaffebar in Solsiden. They have excellent coffee, and their cakes are a treat.
Visit the Rustkammeret Defence Museum

Another must-visit museum in Trondheim is the Rustkammeret Defence Museum, also known as the “Armoury” Army Museum. Located inside the Archbishop’s Palace, this museum specializes in the military history of Trøndelag. Its exhibitions also cover the Home Forces in the region during World War II.
That’s not all, either, as the Rustkammeret Defence Museum also covers history from the Viking Age to World War II. The museum has many fascinating artifacts, including old weapons and uniforms. The recreations of soldiers in battle are also exciting.
On a museum tour, a guide will explain the artifacts in each room and their history.
Travel Tips
- Check the Opening Hours: The Rustkammeret Defence Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, except on certain holidays. Plan your visit within these hours to avoid disappointment.
- Entry Fee: Entry costs NOK 100 (USD 9) for adults and NOK 50 (USD 4.5) for children. It’s a good deal considering the fascinating exhibitions inside.
Watch Rosenborg BK at Lerkendal Stadion

Watching Rosenborg BK play at the Lerkendal Stadion is one of the best things to do in Trondheim if you love soccer. Founded in 1917, Rosenborg BK is Norway’s most successful soccer team. They’ve won the first division title, currently called the Eliteserien, a record 26 times.
They’ve also played more UEFA matches than any other Norwegian soccer team. If you time your visit right, you could watch Rosenborg BK in action. They play at the Lerkendal Stadion, a 21,423-seater stadium in Lerkendal, Trondheim.
If Rosenborg BK isn’t at home during your visit, you could always try to watch Nardo FK, another Trondheim team, in action. They play in the Norwegian third division.
Travel Tips
- Check the Schedule: Before you go, make sure to check Rosenborg BK’s schedule on their official website. Matches can sell out quickly, so it’s good to know when they’re playing at home.
- Parking at the Stadium: If you’re driving, there’s parking near the stadium, but it fills up fast on match days. Arrive early.
- Public Transport to Lerkendal: If you’re not driving, take Bus 5 from Trondheim city center. It stops near Lerkendal Stadion, and the ride is only about 15 minutes.
Have a Picnic in Marinen Park

Marinen Park is one of the most relaxing places in Trondheim. Offering an escape from the city’s bustling streets, this lush park in Central Trondheim is a great place to relax, unwind, and enjoy a scenic stroll. It sits on the banks of the Nidelva River and is flanked by Nidaros Cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace.
Its vast green lawns are perfect for a picnic or fun and games with your children. Meanwhile, the riverside walking path offers scenic river and city views. We recommend visiting a local grocery store for some food and drinks, finding a peaceful place to sit in the park, and relaxing for a few hours.
Then, when you want to explore the city, the main tourist attractions aren’t too far away.
Travel Tips
- Grab Snacks at Rema 1000: If you plan on having a picnic in Marinen Park, stop by the Rema 1000 grocery store (at Olav Tryggvasons Gate 16). It’s only a short walk away, and you can stock up on sandwiches, drinks, or fresh fruit.
- Take a Boat Ride on the Nidelva: To see the park and city from another angle, hop on a boat ride along the Nidelva River.
Have a Look Around Bryggerekka Bruktmarked

Looking around Bryggerekka Bruktmarked is one of the best things to do in Trondheim if you love shopping. Surrounded by breathtaking, vibrant architecture, Bryggerekka Bruktmarked is an outdoor market on Kjøpmannsgata. It’s open every Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, usually from May to August.
This lively market is open to anyone who wants to sell their goods or belongings. Therefore, you can find all sorts of things. Some people might sell clothes and collectibles, while others might sell books or plants.
The market also supports local arts and crafts and the sale of second-hand goods, so you could buy some fantastic unique souvenirs to take home.
Travel Tips
- Get there early for the best deals: Arriving right when the market opens gives you first dibs on unique items.
- Expect to haggle a bit: Some sellers are open to negotiation, so don’t hesitate to ask for a lower price if you find something you like.
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