Colorful wooden buildings on stilts over calm water, with the text FASTING ARKITEKTER visible on one. Hills in background.

Weekend trip to Trondheim

10 things to see and do in Trondheim

Trondheim is a city that blends history, technology, culture, and genuine Trøndelag charm – while offering a mix of modern city life, relaxation, and closeness to nature. What are you waiting for? Here are ten things you won’t want to miss on a weekend getaway to Trondheim, Norway’s third-largest city.

Published: 8 December 2025

A magnificent stone cathedral with two grand towers and a detailed facade, set against a blue sky, with people enjoying the plaza.

1. Nidaros Cathedral

No trip to Trondheim is complete without a visit to Nidaros Cathedral – Norway’s most iconic landmark. This Gothic masterpiece has been a destination for pilgrims for over 900 years and offers breathtaking details and a sense of tranquillity unlike any other. In summer, you can climb the tower for panoramic views across the entire city.

An autumn landscape with colorful trees and a church spire reflected in still water under a cloudy sky.

2. Archbishop’s Palace

Right next to the cathedral lies the Archbishop’s Palace – one of the oldest stone buildings in Northern Europe. Here, you’ll find the Norwegian crown jewels and fascinating exhibitions that offer a glimpse into medieval Trondheim.

People walk across a red wooden bridge towards a town with colorful buildings under a clear blue sky.

3. Bakklandet

Bakklandet is Trondheim’s most charming neighbourhood – picture-perfect in every way. With its colourful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and cosy cafés, it’s the ideal place for a stroll or a good cup of coffee. Stop by a local café, snap a photo from the Old Town Bridge, and soak up the unique atmosphere where past and present meet.

Accommodation

Book a hotel in Trondheim

Quality Hotel™ Augustin

Combines historic charm with modern comfort in the heart of the city.

Home Hotel Grand Olav

Overnight stay with breakfast and dinner included.

Clarion Hotel® Trondheim

Stay at one of Scandinavia’s largest congress hotels.

Comfort Hotel™ Trondheim

Stay conveniently, comfortably, and at an affordable price.

4. Discover Music at Rockheim

At Rockheim – Norway’s national museum of popular music – you’ll embark on an interactive journey through the country’s pop and rock history. Mix your own tracks, explore the stories of iconic artists, and feel the rhythm of Norwegian music come alive.

5. Explore History at Sverresborg

Just outside the city centre, you’ll find Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum, an open-air museum where historic buildings tell the story of everyday life in centuries past. In summer, you can wander among old farms and wooden churches – a fascinating trip back in time.

6. Enjoy Nature and Music at Ringve

Ringve Music Museum offers both a cultural and natural experience. It houses Norway’s largest collection of musical instruments – more than 2,000 historical pieces from around the world. The museum is surrounded by beautiful botanical gardens, perfect for a peaceful Sunday stroll.

A row of colorful waterfront houses with gabled roofs, perfectly reflected in the calm blue water.

7. Walk along the Nidelva River

The classic piers reflected in the Nidelva River are among Trondheim’s most iconic sights. Stroll along the waterfront, snap some photos, and enjoy the city’s calmer side – beautiful in every season.

Aerial view of a historic city with a grand cathedral, a winding river, and many buildings, all set against a large body of water and distant hills.

8. Kristiansten Fortress

A short walk from the city centre takes you up to Kristiansten Fortress, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city, the Nidelva River, and the Trondheim Fjord. Bring a coffee along the way and watch the sun set behind the city skyline – especially magical on clear evenings.

A charming street scene with colorful wooden buildings and an outdoor cafe. A chalkboard sign advertises Kaffe, Panini, Pizza.

9. Shopping and cafés

After a few hours of sightseeing, a bit of shopping in some of the city’s popular or more unique boutiques can be a great change of pace. In and around the main shopping streets, you’ll also find plenty of cosy cafés – perfect for a relaxing break between shops.

An elegantly plated dish featuring a green sauce, white base, crispy toppings, and fresh herbs, alongside wine glasses.

10. Enjoy great food

Beautiful Trondheim offers a wide range of dining experiences. In fact, Trondheim and the Trøndelag region have become one of Europe’s top destinations for food lovers after being named European Region of Gastronomy in 2022. Welcome to a true culinary haven! Make sure you check out some of Trondheim’s many restaurants.