Trondheim is not only the oldest city in Norway but the third-largest as well. It was founded by the Vikings as a trading post, back in 997 AD, and was crowned as the capital of the country up until 1217. The city of Trondheim sits on a peninsula and connects to the mainland from its west end.
Aside from being a popular town in Norway, Trondheim is a good place for fjord cruises. It boasts a mild maritime climate, which means that various surrounding areas offer a good skiing base. There are numerous things that you can do while in the city. Keep reading to find out more!
- Admire Nidaros Cathedral
Nidaros Cathedral is considered to be a marvelous church, located in Scandinavia. It was constructed by King Olav Kyrre, right over the tomb of St. Olav, the patron saint of Norway. This cathedral sits in the northernmost location of the world, where medieval cathedrals are concerned. Safe to say, it is one of the best attractions in the city, which you can admire in its entirety.
You will also find the graves of many Kings at the Nidaros Cathedral, which happens to be the same place where they were christened at birth. Moreover, an interesting fact about this site is that since the year 1814, the Norwegian Constitution has decreed that the cathedral is where the monarch will be crowned.
Gaze over the late Romanesque style that heavily influences the chapterhouse, as well as the transept. There is also a long choir with a beautiful doorway to the south, added sometime in the 13th century, along with the tower and the massive nave.
- Explore Gamle Bybro and Bakklandet
All you need to do to arrive at the colorful old houses and picturesque lanes of the Bakklandet neighborhood is to cross the Nidelva river and then walk through the magnificent red arches of the Gamle Bybro, also known as the Old Town Bridge. As soon as you set foot in the neighborhood, you will feel as if you are visiting a small village. The site used to have historic wooden buildings by the side of the river, which have now been transformed into coffee houses, small shops, restaurants, and galleries.
You could shop for a range of clothing in the boutiques located here or just take a stroll along the riverside for gorgeous views of the buildings that line the opposite bank. Simply put, this is the most historic neighborhood of Trondheim, which you will love exploring.
- Climb to the Kristiansten Fortress
Kristiansten Fortress stands atop a hill, located on the east of the city of Trondheim. It was constructed between the years 1681 and 1695 to ensure protection to the town against any outside attack. Though you will have to climb for a bit to reach this attraction, it is all worth it. Enter the museum free of cost and enjoy the views of the city when you are done exploring the interior.
- Enjoy at the Rockheim
If you are a fan of rock and pop music, then this is the place for you to be. This particular site is going to ensure that you enjoy a pleasant trip down memory lane and listen to some of the great legends of Norway. The collections of the museum are displayed for you, as well as interactive videos, recordings, and exhibits, so you will not be bored at the Rockheim at all.
In addition, The Time Tunnel, which is a permanent exhibit, brings to life cultural history and modern Norwegian musicals through performance videos and sounds. The changing exhibits are focused on various aspects of culture, as well as music.
This is one museum where you have the opportunity to actively get involved, release your hidden inner graffiti artist, jam to popular tracks, create remixes, and even dance.
- Visit the Museum and Palace of the Archbishop
The medieval Palace of the Archbishop is one of the oldest buildings in all of Scandinavia. It also happens to be one of the topmost preserved palaces on the entire continent. The site dates back to the latter half of the 12th century and its west wing houses numerous historic displays, which include the exhibit of the Norwegian Crown Regalia. This display consists of an impressive collection of the dazzling crown jewels of Norway.
You can take a look at the archaeological finds and original sculptures at the Palace’s Museum and learn from the military history of Trondheim from the arrival of the Vikings to the Second World War.
- Tour Stiftsgarden
Stiftsgarden was constructed as a private home in the year 1778, by a wealthy man named Christine Schøller. Today, it is used by the royal family of Norway as their official home, whenever they make the trip to Trondheim. In addition, this is one of the biggest wooden buildings in all of Europe, which consists of over 100 rooms. It is a prime example of magnificent Baroque architecture from the 18th century.
This place is perfect if you are a history buff and interested in the life of the royals. It has been home to many royals, as well as their guests since the 1800s. It will allow you to get a clear picture of the daily lives of the social elite. Feel free to take a tour of all of its opulent rooms and admire the beautifully constructed building.
Aside from these things that you can do, make sure to wander close to the harbor, which is the old port area of the city, located at the mouth of the Nidel river. It is a wonderful place to go for a pleasant walk and is one of the best things to do in the beautiful city of Trondheim.
Now that you know the many places that the town has to offer for your enjoyment, do not waste any more time. Book your ticket to one of the oldest cities in Norway and explore it to the full!
