How to best experience Trondheim

Once the Viking capital of Norway, located in the beating heart of Trøndelag in the middle of the country, Trondheim offers a fascinating mix of rich history and vibrant modern living. Here are the 3 best ways to experience Norway’s third largest city:

Walk around

Trondheim has so many sites that will take your breath away! Start with a visit to the magnificently gothic Nidaros Cathedral, a pilgrimage spot since the 11th century since it was built upon the tomb of St. Olav, Norway’s patron saint. Then, take a stroll along the cobblestoned streets of Bakklandet, the charming old town dotted with cafés, bars and art galleries. Keep any eye out for street art murals, as Trondheim is filled with them.

And don’t forget to pay a visit to the Kristiansten fortress: built in 1681, the fortress not only offers stunning views to the rest of the city and the fjord, but also has a dungeon and a museum you can visit to get a better understanding of Norwegian history.

Bakklandet in Trondheim — Bakklandet is a charming part of Trondheim with galleries and cafes. Photo by CH | Visit Norway

People enjoying the sun at Skydsstation at Bakklandet — Photo by Martin Håndlykken | Visit Norway

Girl eating cake in Trondheim — Photo by Maverix | Visit Norway

Sample the food scene

Trondheim is truly a foodie’s dream! The whole Trøndelag region is abundant in first class ingredients, from shellfish and crabs to berries and vegetables, which has skyrocketed the city’s culinary scene to the point that it was awarded European Region of Gastronomy 2022. There are several Michelin-starred restaurants you can visit, to enjoy farm-to-table and fjord-to-table tasting menus. There’s even a caviar bar, as well as several wine bars and bistros where you can pair innovative dishes with wine or beer offerings.

waiter at restaurant Gubalari Restaurant — Gubalari Restaurant in Trondheim. Photo by Christine Baglo | Visit Norway

Woman sitting in Palvehaven restaurant in Trondheim — Palvehaven restaurant in Trondheim. Photo by Maverix | Visit Norway

Pizza chef at Grano Restaurant in Trondheim — Grano Restaurant in Trondheim. Photo by Leikny Havik Skjærseth | Visit Norway

Explore the magnificent outdoors

Trondheim is ideally located on the shores of Trondheimsfjorden, Norway’s third longest fjord, but there’s also the Nidelva river and nearby parks and forests that will enchant you with their stunning natural beauty. Make sure you visit Bymarka forest for mountain biking or hiking — and if the weather is nice, have a picnic at Lake Lian.

Photo by Trondheim Kayak