Trondheim

One of Norway’s largest cities, Trondheim boasts many remarkable attractions, historic architecture, and a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities. Now, it’s time to explore the top 10 things to do in Trondheim, Norway.

Visit the majestic Gothic Cathedral

The majestic Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim’s major historical and cultural landmark, towers over the city, captivating travellers with its striking architectural beauty. Built upon the burial site of Saint Olav, Nidaros was a significant pilgrimage destination in Northern Europe from the Middle Ages onwards. The present-day cathedral, predominantly Gothic in style with Romanesque elements, was constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries, following extensive damage to earlier structures from several fires.

Today, visitors can witness this remarkable edifice and admire its ornate west front, featuring intricate sculptures depicting biblical figures and Norwegian saints. Other striking highlights of Nidaros Cathedral include the octagonal choir above Saint Olav’s burial site, its several grand organs, and impressive stained-glass windows, some of which date back to medieval times.

And it’s not just the architectural splendour that makes a visit to Nidaros one of the best things to do in Trondheim, Norway. In addition to wandering through the cathedral’s awe-inspiring interior, visitors can ascend the tower for panoramic views of the city, attend a service or concert, and even explore the historical museum at the adjacent Archbishop’s Palace. Overall, Nidaros is rightly regarded not only as one of the best places to visit in Trondheim but also as one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Norway.

Explore colourful Bakklandet

Northern Lights over the colourful Bakklandet district in Trondheim, Norway.

One of the city’s oldest and most charming districts, Bakklandet nestles along the Nidelva River, just across the old town bridge from the city centre. Its colourful wooden houses, enchanting cobblestone streets, and idyllic riverside location create a truly dreamy atmosphere, making it one of the most extraordinary places to see in Trondheim.

Travellers can wander around the district’s charming streets and browse the local unique boutiques, artisan shops, and small art galleries, enjoying a distinctive shopping experience away from the city centre. Here, visitors can splash on local crafts, artworks, design items, and vintage goods. And Bakklandet’s cosy cafés offer ideal settings to enjoy fika with a cup of coffee and a skillingsbolle, the local cinnamon roll.

Ultimately, it’s also the perfect place to capture memorable photographs that every traveller will treasure for years to come. A visit to this unique district with its unparalleled atmosphere is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Trondheim.

Take a photo at the elegant Gamle Bybro

Gamle Bybro, meaning Old Town Bridge, gracefully spans the Nidelva River, connecting Trondheim’s city centre with the charming district of Bakklandet. Originally constructed in 1681 by Johan Caspar von Cicignon, the city’s master builder, after a significant fire, this bridge has become an iconic landmark of Trondheim.

Every tourist in the city should visit this beloved bridge to capture memorable photographs — especially near “Portal of Happiness,” the charming red portals at each end of the bridge. With its historical significance and excellent photo opportunities, Gamle Bybro is undoubtedly a place every traveller must see in Trondheim.

Visit the dominant Kristiansten Fortress

Perched on a hill overlooking Trondheim, the star-shaped Kristiansten Fortress was built after the great fire of 1681 at the orders of King Christian V and played a crucial role in the Great Northern War. Today, this defensive complex entices visitors with panoramic views of the city, the Nidelva River, and the surrounding Trondheimsfjord. The historic significance of Kristiansten is evident through its well-preserved stone walls and ramparts, cannon emplacements, and the main building on its grounds — the commandant’s residence.

During a visit to the fortress, travellers can wander around its ramparts and courtyards, learn about its history, see the commandant’s residence, or even enjoy a picnic on its grounds, all while admiring the spectacular panoramic vistas over the city. Overall, this historic landmark deservedly holds a prominent spot on this list of the best things to do in Trondheim, Norway.

Explore the city’s fascinating museums

Ringve Music Museum in Trondheim, Norway.

The city also boasts an impressive collection of world-class museums, catering to travellers with diverse interests, and exploring these immersive institutions is undeniably among the best things to do in Trondheim.

Rockheim, an interactive and engaging museum dedicated to popular music, delves into the history of Norwegian pop and rock culture from the 1950s to the present day. Visitors can experience this rich history through an impressive exhibition of video clips, listening stations, and even virtual performances. Temporary exhibitions, often held at the museum, offer fascinating insights into specific genres, periods, or artists, while the rooftop terrace provides spectacular panoramic views of the city.

The Ringve Music Museum, best experienced on an engaging guided tour, is another captivating institution that invites guests to learn about the history of music and musical instruments from around the world. For a deeper cultural immersion, travellers can head to the city’s outskirts and visit Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum, an open-air museum displaying historic buildings from the Trøndelag region.

One of the best places to see in Trondheim is the captivating Trondheim Art Museum, which focuses on contemporary art and operates across two main locations. The gallery at Nordre gate 2, located in the city’s heart, showcases a broad collection of modern art and some older works, while the Gråmølna location, housed in a former mill, frequently hosts temporary art exhibitions and installations.

Finally, the Archbishop’s Palace Museum, located right next to Nidaros Cathedral, is also noteworthy. It features several fascinating exhibits that explore the town’s medieval history and the cathedral itself. With such a wealth of options for museum-hopping, travelers in Trondheim will undoubtedly find an engrossing place to visit that perfectly suits their interests.

Kayak along the Nidelva River

One of the best things to do in Trondheim in summer is kayaking along the Nidelva River, paddling between the colourful wooden buildings of the Bakklandet district and under the iconic Gamle Bybro. Such a scenic adventure offers a unique opportunity to admire the city from the water, while also spotting various wildlife along the riverbanks.

Travellers can choose from a variety of guided tours or opt for kayak rentals, the latter being ideal for those with prior kayaking experience. Most tours commence near the city centre or Bakklandet, allowing paddlers to explore the calm waters of the Nidelva within city limits or even venture further towards the Trondheimsfjord. Perfectly suitable for kayakers of all levels, including complete beginners, the Nidelva River promises a scenic and memorable sightseeing trip.

Make a trip to Munkholmen Island

Munkholmen Island is a tiny, charming islet located approximately 2 kilometres northwest of Trondheim’s city centre, in the Trondheimsfjord. Easily visible from multiple points along the city’s waterfront, this small island boasts a significant role in Norway’s history, having transformed from a public execution site during the Viking Age to a Benedictine monastery in the medieval era, and later serving as a formidable fortress and prison. A visit to this unique island is certainly worth considering for those wondering what to see in Trondheim, Norway.

The only way to reach the island from Trondheim is by boat, with services running regularly during the summer season, from May to September. Upon arrival, visitors can join a guided tour around the island, explore the well-preserved grounds of the star-shaped fortress, and even visit the prison cell of Count Peder Griffenfeld, the jail’s most famous inmate. In summer, Munkholmen also becomes a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, attracting both locals and tourists. This season also sees the island frequently hosting outdoor theatre performances — a truly immersive cultural experience.

Travellers with a spare day in the city should definitely consider a trip to this tiny island, which absolutely deserves a spot on this list of the top things to do in Trondheim in summer.

Enjoy panoramic views from the Tyholt Tower

Located on a hill in the city’s Tyholt neighbourhood, the namesake tower is a 124-metre radio and TV station, built in 1985. Although its primary purpose was, naturally, broadcasting, the tower quickly became a popular tourist attraction thanks to the spectacular panoramic views of the city it offers.

The highlight for visitors is the revolving restaurant, situated at an altitude of approximately 80 metres up the tower. Making one complete revolution per hour, it allows guests to experience constantly changing panoramic views of the city without leaving their seats during a meal. That is why Egon Restaurant is a must-visit for many, offering a family-friendly experience and serving high-quality European fare.

Just below the restaurant, guests will find an observation deck — a perfect option for those who prefer to enjoy the views without dining. With the opportunity to savour unparalleled vistas of the city in all directions, a visit to the Tyholt Tower is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Trondheim.

Venture outdoors into Bymarka

Bymarka and the city of Trondheim, as viewed from the peak of Grakallen.

Bymarka, an expansive wilderness area near Trondheim, abounds with dense forests, green hills, and serene lakes, which makes it a beloved destination for outdoor adventures among locals.

Travellers can easily access this natural splendour from the city centre, immersing themselves in Bymarka’s vast forests by hiking or swimming in its calm lakes — Theisendammen, Kyvannet, and Haukvatnet are particularly popular. The easiest and most convenient way to reach Bymarka is by taking Gråkallbanen, the historic tramway that also offers a scenic journey through the heart of Trondheim.

Bymarka’s extensive network of well-marked trails — including popular routes like Lian, Gråkallen, and Skistua — makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, undoubtedly positioning hiking as one of the top things to do near Trondheim. The area also boasts many gravel forest roads, excellent for cycling and mountain biking — ideal for those ready to challenge themselves.

Ultimately, this forest is an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic or simple recreation, with multiple “Marka” cabins offering refreshments and traditional Norwegian waffles. Overall, embracing outdoor recreation in Bymarka is undeniably among the top things to do in Trondheim in summer.

Sample the vibrant local cuisine

Sodd, a festive meat soup served with crisp bread, is a significant specialty in the Trøndelag region.

Those wondering what to do in Trondheim should definitely experience the local cuisine, especially as the city has forged a strong culinary reputation in Norway. Indeed, Trøndelag, Trondheim’s home region, has even earned the nickname “Home of Nordic Flavours.”

Nestled among fertile farmlands, vast forests, and the rich waters of the Nidelva River and Trondheimsfjord, the city enjoys an abundance of fresh, high-quality ingredients. This rich supply has fostered a thriving farm-to-table — or perhaps more accurately, fjord-to-table — philosophy. Many restaurants in Trondheim proudly serve dishes crafted from seasonal, hyper-local ingredients, often sourced directly from the region’s farmers, fishermen, and hunters.

The variety of local dishes travellers can savour is truly astounding. Komle, or raspeballer, is the city’s iconic main dish and a popular comfort food — a savoury potato dumpling typically served with salted pork, boiled carrots, and melted butter. Other must-try meals include fiskesuppe (creamy seafood soup), klippfisk and reker (distinct seafood dishes), reindeer meat, and award-winning local cheeses such as Gammel Erik and Granstubben. And don’t miss out on a bottle of Trønderøl, a unique local beer.

The city also boasts two Michelin-starred restaurants and offers travellers a wealth of dining establishments, which often focus on traditional Norwegian flavours, enhanced with international influences and modern twists. Overall, embarking on a culinary adventure is deservedly among the best things to do in Trondheim in winter and summer alike.

Despite being a large city by Norwegian standards, Trondheim boasts a compact and exceptionally walkable city centre, making it ideal for exploration on foot. Walking is indeed the best way to discover the historic centre and the colourful Bakklandet district, which nestles along the Nidelva River. An extensive network of cycling lanes and readily available bike rentals ensure exploring Trondheim on two wheels is both simple and hassle-free.

AtB, the local bus company, operates a comprehensive and reliable network of routes, covering most of the city and extending to the surrounding areas. Buses offer a convenient way to reach attractions like the Rockheim Museum, the Sverresborg Folk Museum, and offer a convenient option for airport transfers. For hassle-free ticket purchases, installing the AtB app is recommended, though ticket machines are also available.

Gråkallbanen, a historic tram line, stands as Europe’s northernmost tramway, directly connecting the city centre with Bymarka, a vast forest near Trondheim. While car rentals and taxis are readily available, travellers should be prepared for generally high prices. Boats, though not a primary means of daily transport, connect Trondheim with Munkholmen Island during the summer months, offering a scenic excursion.

Trondheim Airport, located within a 30-minute journey from the city centre, is best reached via the Airport Bus (Værnesekspressen), although trains from Vy and taxis also provide options. Overall, navigating the city is straightforward and convenient, though car rentals and taxis can incur significant costs.