35 Best Things to Do in Trondheim Norway: A Native’s Guide (2024)
Velkommen to Trondheim, Norway’s third-largest city and a slightly distant gem tucked away in the heart of the country – in the middle north! I am here to share all the fun things to do in Trondheim that you may not know about.
As a born-and-raised Norwegian, I have spent countless holidays and weekends exploring every nook and cranny of this country, and I’m here to spill the beans on all the cool stuff you can do in the Norwegian Middle Earth: Trondheim.
From medieval historical marvels to cutting-edge science centers and tranquil nature spots to buzzing entertainment districts, Trondheim is an underrated destination just south of the Arctic Circle.
And there are lots of amazing things to see and do in Trondheim!
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What Are The Best Things To Do In Trondheim
People from Trondheim are what we call “jovial“; they have a relaxed, distinct dialect, are very laid-back, and are generally easy-going and smiling.
The town itself, with colorful wooden houses, rich history, and vibrant student life, offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and a modern Scandinavian vibe.
Let’s explore some of the must-do activities that will make your visit unforgettable!
📍 TravelToNorway Tip: Click the link to check out this high-rated guided two-hour walking tour of Trondheim to learn the stories and the highlights before you start exploring on your own!
1. Visit The Old City Bakklandet
Step into a postcard-perfect scene in Bakklandet, Trondheim’s old town. This neighborhood is so quaint it’ll charm you whether you arrive in summer or winter.
With narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful wooden old-fashioned houses, Bakklandet is now home to cozy cafes, artisan shops, and hipster bars where you can have lunch, 5 o’clock drinks, and dinner at night.
TravelToNorway Tip: Grab a kanelbolle (cinnamon bun) from one of the local bakeries – it’s basically a warm hug for your taste buds.
2. Admire The Royal Crown Regalia
Go get your royal fix at the Archbishop’s Palace Museum, home to the Norwegian Crown Regalia, which is kept safely in the center of Trondheim.
Gaze upon the glittering crowns, scepters, and other shiny things that make up Norway’s royal bling collection. Just please resist the urge to try anything on – trust me, it will probably not be received well.
3. Marvel At The Nidaros Cathedral
Prepare to have your mind blown by the Nidaros Cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world.
This Gothic masterpiece took over 230 years to build – talk about a long-term project! Marvel at the intricate stone carvings, climb the tower for panoramic city views, or attend a regal concert to experience the cathedral’s heavenly acoustics.
Also read: 6 Best Hotels In Trondheim Norway Budget To Lavish Luxury
4. Have A Fun Day In Spirbadet Water World
Dive into Spirbadet Water World for some splashy fun. With pools, slides, and a wave machine, it’s like a tropical vacation in the middle of rugged Norway.
Plus, the sauna is a great place to test your endurance and pretend you’re a Viking warrior planning your next conquest (or just to warm up your toes).
📍 TravelToNorway Tip: You can now also try taking a sauna in an old WWII bunker in Trondheim! This activity has not been rated yet, but check it out if you think it sounds like fun!
5. Stroll Over The “Portal of Happiness” Old City Bridge
Cross the Old City Bridge, affectionately known as the “Portal of Happiness,” and you might just feel a skip in your step.
This iconic red bridge offers stunning views of the colorful warehouses along the Nidelva River.
It’s the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a contemplative moment – super charming in the summer and beautiful snow-covered white in the winter.
6. Visit Trondheim Science Center Vitensenteret
Unleash your inner nerd at the Trondheim Science Center. With interactive exhibits covering everything from technology to the human body, it’s like a playground for curious minds of all ages.
If you don’t leave feeling smarter, at least you will leave with a newfound appreciation for gravity!
7. Go Hiking In Bymarka (Or Skiing)
Calling all nature lovers and Instagram hikers (and all other hikers, too)! Bymarka, Trondheim’s vast recreational area, is where you can unleash your inner mountain goat.
With over 240 km of marked trails, you can hike, bike, or ski (in winter) to your heart’s content, and the views of the city and fjord from up here are absolutely breathtaking.
8. Visit Medieval Munkholmen Island
Take a boat trip to Munkholmen Island, a place that’s been everything from a medieval monastery to a prison and fortress.
Today, it’s a peaceful spot for picnics and swimming. As you explore on your own you can imagine the island’s colorful past, to say the least.
9. Stroll Along The Historic Trondheim Wharf
Take a leisurely stroll along the historic Trondheim Wharf, where colorful old warehouses have been transformed into trendy restaurants, shops, and galleries.
It’s the perfect place to soak in the city’s maritime heritage, do some people-watching, or just pretend you’re in a cute Norwegian rom-com (that’s how charming the surroundings are).
10. Explore Trondheim Art Museum
Feed your soul with some art at the Trondheim Art Museum. With a collection from the 1850s to contemporary works, there’s something for every artistic taste.
Whether you’re an art connoisseur or someone who thinks “abstract” means “I could’ve painted that,” I am pretty confident you’ll find plenty to appreciate here.
11. Visit Sverresborg Museum
Step back in time at Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Norwegian architecture and way of life.
Wander through old farmsteads, city buildings, and even a beautiful stave church. In this area if feels like traveling back in time, except modern Trondheim is right outside.
12. Go Kayaking In Nidelva
For a different perspective of Trondheim, hop in a kayak and paddle your way through the Nidelva River.
Glide past the colorful warehouses, under historic bridges, and maybe even spot some local wildlife.
13. Visit Kristiansten Fortress
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Kristiansten Fortress offers both a history lesson and fantastic views.
Built in the 17th century to protect Trondheim, it now serves as a great spot for picnics, sunset-watching, or pretending you’re a medieval guard (no judgment here).
14. Have Dinner At Tryholttårnet Rotating Restaurant
For a meal with a view (and a side of mild dizziness), head to Tyholttårnet, Trondheim’s old TV tower, with a rotating restaurant at the top.
As you slowly spin 80 meters above the city, you’ll get a 360-degree view of Trondheim in one hour while enjoying some delicious Norwegian cuisine. Just sit back, relax, and let the tower take you on a sit-down sightseeing.
25. Test The Trampe Cyclocable Bike Elevator
Feeling lazy but still want to look sporty? Rent a city bike and try the Trampe Cyclocable, the world’s first bicycle lift. It’s like a ski lift for bikes, helping cyclists conquer Trondheim’s steepest hill.
Even if you’re not cycling, it’s fun to watch people trying to master the art of being pulled uphill while maintaining their dignity.
16. Explore Ringve Music Museum
Music lovers, rejoice! Ringve Music Museum is Norway’s national museum for music and musical instruments.
Set in a beautiful manor house with lovely gardens, it’s a feast for both the eyes and ears. Who knows, you might even discover your hidden talent for the Norwegian bukkehorn!
17. Walk The Ladestien Path
For a peaceful escape from the city buzz, take a walk along the Ladestien path. This coastal trail offers beautiful views of the Trondheimsfjord and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more energetic jog.
Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna – and you will also meet lots of locals here, especially on sunny summer days.
18. Visit The National Museum Of Justice
For a more somber but fascinating experience, visit the National Museum of Justice. Housed in a former courthouse and prison, it offers insights into the development of law and order in Norway.
It’s a thought-provoking journey through the country’s judicial history – and a great place to practice your stern “order in the court” face.
19. Enjoy Solsiden Vibrant Entertainment Area
When the sun goes down (or stays up, depending on the season), head to Solsiden for some nightlife action.
This former shipyard turned entertainment district is packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s where Trondheim lets its hair down and shows off its cool, modern side. Just remember, “skål” means “cheers,” not “another round of aquavit, please.”
PS: People from Trondheim are known to make their own liquor (moonshine), they call it karsk. If you ask for karsk somewhere (it is not exactly legal), you will probably impress the locals and give them a good laugh!
20. Go To The Festival In Hell Outside Trondheim
Yes, you read that right – there’s a place called Hell just outside Trondheim, and they have a blues festival!
The Blues in Hell festival is a must for music lovers. Plus, you get to say you’ve been to Hell and back, which is always a great conversation starter.
21. Guided Boat Tour With Old SDS Hansteen
See Trondheim from a different perspective with a guided boat tour on the old steamship DS Hansteen.
As you cruise along the Trondheimsfjord, you’ll learn about the city’s maritime history and enjoy beautiful coastal scenery – a perfect slow-travel option for a sunny day.
22. Visit The Church Of Our Lady
The Church of Our Lady (Vår Frue Kirke) is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture in the heart of Trondheim.
With its striking white exterior and ornate interior, it’s a peaceful oasis in the bustling city center. Take a moment to admire the intricate altarpiece – or just enjoy a quiet moment of contemplation (like wondering why you ate that extra, sweet kanelbolle).
23. Explore Stiftsgården Royal Residence
Get a taste of royal life at Stiftsgården, which is still the official royal residence in Trondheim.
This wooden palace is the largest of its kind in Scandinavia and offers guided tours during summer. Marvel at the grand rooms and imagine what it’s like to be Norwegian royalty for an hour or two, this historical building is truly impressive.
24. Attend a Football Match at Lerkendal Stadion
Even if you’re not a football fanatic, catching a match at Lerkendal Stadion is a must-do Trondheim experience.
Home to Rosenborg BK, one of Norway’s most successful clubs, the atmosphere here is electric. Join the locals in cheering (or jeering), and you’ll feel like a true Trondheimer in no time. And remember: it’s “football,” not “soccer”)!
25. Attend A Performance With Trondheim Symphony Orchestra
Class up your evening with a performance by the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra & Opera.
Whether you’re a classical music buff or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life, an evening at the Olavshallen concert hall is sure to be memorable. Check the link to see what is on during your visit!
26. Take A Day Trip To Steinvikholm Castle
For a dose of medieval drama, take a day trip to Steinvikholm Castle. This island fortress was the last stronghold of Catholic power in Norway during the Reformation, after which the church in Norway became protestant.
Today, it’s a fantastic place to explore, with stunning views of the Trondheimsfjord and a rich and super interesting history.
27. Visit the Rockheim National Museum of Popular Music
Ready to rock out, Norwegian style? Head to Rockheim, the National Museum of Popular Music. This interactive wonderland takes you on a journey through Norwegian pop and rock from the 1950s to today.
With its striking architecture (it looks like a giant jukebox!) and hands-on exhibits, you’ll be tapping your feet and humming Norse tunes in no time. Who knows, you might even discover your new favorite Norwegian band!
28. Take a Trip on the Gråkallbanen Tram
All aboard the Gråkallbanen, one of the world’s most northerly tram lines! This charming blue tram offers a scenic ride through Trondheim from the city center up to the Bymarka recreational area.
It’s a bit like a rollercoaster, but much slower and with significantly better views. Plus, you get to feel like you’re in a quaint Norwegian postcard come to life!
29. Explore the Trondheim Kunsthall
For a dose of cutting-edge creativity, make your way to Trondheim Kunsthall. This contemporary art gallery showcases rotating exhibitions from both local and international artists.
It’s the perfect place to stroke your chin thoughtfully and ponder the meaning of that abstract sculpture. Don’t worry if you don’t “get” everything – sometimes, aspiring your imagination is exactly the idea!
30. Take A Guided Tour of Monks’ Island (Munkholmen)
Remember Munkholmen Island from earlier? Well, why not dive deeper into its fascinating history with a guided tour?
Learn about its past lives as a monastery, prison, and fortress. It’s like a historical soap opera but with more monks and less drama. Plus, the beautiful boat ride there is a great opportunity to practice your sea shanties.
31. Visit the Trondheim Maritime Museum
If you are fascinated by maritime history, you should stop by the Trondheim Maritime Museum and dive into the city’s rich seafaring heritage.
From Viking longships to modern fishing techniques, this museum covers it all. Norwegians have been a sea-faring folk for centuries, although these days a lot more amicable than in the height of the viking era!
32. Enjoy a Performance at the Trøndelag Teater
Culture vultures, this one’s for you! Catch a show at the Trøndelag Teater, Norway’s oldest theater company.
Whether you’re into classic dramas, modern comedies, or avant-garde performances, there’s something for everyone. Don’t worry if your Norwegian isn’t up to scratch – the melodramatic gasps and passionate soliloquies are universal languages, so just feel your way.
33. Explore the Trondheim Kunstmuseum Gråmølna
Art lovers, rejoice! The Trondheim Kunstmuseum Gråmølna, a branch of the main art museum, focuses on contemporary art.
Housed in a former grain mill, it’s a perfect location for the blend of industrial chic and modern creativity. It showcases a vast collection of Norwegian and international art and contemporary artists as well as historical pieces.
34. Visit the Trondheim Jewish Museum
For a poignant and enlightening experience, visit the Trondheim Jewish Museum.
Housed in the city’s former synagogue, it tells the story of Jewish life in Norway and the community’s contributions to Trondheim’s culture. It’s a sobering reminder of history and a celebration of resilience.
35. Explore The Tyholt Tower View
Remember the rotating restaurant at Tyholttårnet, the one that rotates? Well, there’s more to this tower than just dizzy dining!
You don’t need to have dinner to enjoy the view. Take a trip up to the observation deck for panoramic views of Trondheim and beyond. On a clear day, you can see for miles – or kilometers, since we’re in Norway.
Trondheim: How To Get Here
You can fly directly to Trondheim from select international airports, and there are also direct flights from Oslo.
Check the best flight deals on Skyscanner, where I generally find the cheapest flight tickets.
If you are into slow travel, you might also enjoy taking the train from Oslo to Trondheim. It will take about 8 hours (Norway is a long country), and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery outside with a nice book, coffee, and music in your ears!
Norway is also a great destination for road trips. You can rent a car at your arrival destination, drive to Trondheim, and stop wherever you like!
📍 TravelToNorway Tip: Check out prices and availability on my favorite car rental app, Discover Cars, that generally offers the best deals, and has also won awards for that.
Distances To Trondheim
- From Oslo To Trondheim: 492 kilometers (305 miles)
- From Bergen To Trondheim: 660 kilometers (410 miles)
- From Tromsø to Trondheim: 1128 kilometers (700 miles)
FAQ Things To Do In Trondheim
What’s the best time to visit Trondheim?
Summer (June to August) offers the mildest weather and long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities.
However, winter (December to February) has its own charm with Christmas markets and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights (northern lights actually start in October).
How many days should I spend in Trondheim?
A minimum of 2-3 days will allow you to see the main attractions. However, 4-5 days would be ideal to fully explore the city and possibly take a day trip to nearby attractions.
Is Trondheim expensive?
Like most Norwegian cities, Trondheim can be pricey for tourists. However, there are plenty of free attractions and budget-friendly options for food and accommodation if you plan ahead.
Do I need to speak Norwegian to visit Trondheim?
Not at all! Most Norwegians speak excellent English, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Norwegian phrases can be fun and appreciated by local trønders.
Wrap-Up 35 Best Things To Do In Trondheim
From its rich history and stunning architecture to its natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, Trondheim offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to all types of travelers (at least if you enjoy exploring Scandinavian nature and culture).
Whether you’re marveling at the Nidaros Cathedral, kayaking down the Nidelva, or enjoying a meal at a rotating restaurant, Trondheim will not disappoint once you get there.
So brush up on your Norwegian 101, and get ready for an adventure in this charming Nordic city. Trondheim’s waiting to show you why it’s one of Norway’s best-kept secrets!
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