5 Must-Visit Historical Sites in Trondheim, Norway

Trondheim is Norway’s third-largest city, located in central Norway. It is known as Norway’s first capital and remains an important historical and cultural hub. The city is about an hour by plane from Oslo, or six hours by train, with overnight trains available for travelers.

Trondheim is home to numerous historical landmarks, with the Nidaros Cathedral standing as the city’s most iconic structure. The city's charming streets, lined with colorful wooden houses, showcase a classic Nordic atmosphere, making it a popular destination among tourists. Although not yet widely known among Japanese travelers, Trondheim offers a rich cultural and scenic experience. Why not take a trip to this historic Norwegian city? Here, we introduce five must-visit attractions in Trondheim!

1. Nidaros Cathedral

Nidaros Cathedral is considered a sacred site in Trondheim, attracting many visitors as a pilgrimage destination due to its historical and religious significance.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1070 and was completed in 2001. Built in a Baroque-style with solid stone architecture, it is the largest cathedral in Norway. The front façade features 54 statues, including a prominent statue of Christ, making a powerful impression on visitors. The cathedral is always bustling with tourists and pilgrims, making it a must-visit attraction in Trondheim.

The exterior of Nidaros Cathedral is breathtaking, but its interior is equally impressive. With high ceilings and a sacred atmosphere, it offers a spiritual experience for visitors. For those who want a panoramic view of Trondheim, climbing the narrow, winding staircase to the cathedral's observation deck is highly recommended. The spectacular cityscape from above makes this a favorite tourist activity.

2. Kristiansten Fortress

Built around 1680, Kristiansten Fortress is a white-walled fort standing proudly on a hilltop, surrounded by stone walls and lush green fields. The path leading to the fortress is lined with charming streets and small tourist spots, making the walk to the site enjoyable.

The fortress now serves as a museum, where visitors can learn about its historical significance. Around the site, cannons are displayed, providing a glimpse into its military past.

Due to its elevated location, the fortress offers a stunning panoramic view of Trondheim. With benches and picnic tables, it is a perfect spot for relaxation. Sunset is particularly magical, as the golden hues illuminate the city, drawing many tourists.

Interestingly, Kristiansten Fortress is visible from almost anywhere in Trondheim, giving it a guardian-like presence over the city.

3. Ringve Music Museum

Located a short distance from Trondheim, the Ringve Music Museum is a national museum dedicated to music history. The museum consists of two charming wooden buildings, featuring exhibits of musical instruments from around the world, including traditional Norwegian instruments and rare medieval instruments.

The museum is situated near Ringve Botanical Garden, making it an ideal destination for a combined visit. During spring, visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, while in autumn, the colorful fall foliage enhances the experience of the museum visit.

Even if you're not a music enthusiast, this museum and botanical garden offer a peaceful and enriching experience, making it a must-visit attraction in Trondheim.

4. The Old Town Bridge

One of the bridges spanning the Nidelva River in Trondheim is the Old Town Bridge, also known as a "drawbridge." Since it connects two major landmarks—the Nidaros Cathedral and the Bakklandet Old Town—it is a bridge that most visitors will pass through during their trip.

Originally, this bridge was a functioning drawbridge, but today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction. The red gate at the entrance is decorated with traditional Trondheim carvings, creating a fairy tale-like atmosphere. This gate is also called the “Gate of Happiness,” and according to local legend, couples who kiss here will stay in love forever.

The colorful warehouses lining the riverbanks, built over 200 years ago, offer one of Trondheim’s most scenic views. Many tourists enjoy taking pictures of the warehouses through the gate, capturing a quintessential Nordic landscape.

5. Bakklandet Old Town

Just across the Old Town Bridge from Nidaros Cathedral, you’ll find Bakklandet Old Town, a trendy area where young people in Trondheim gather. Its convenient location near other major tourist spots makes it a great place to explore.

With its cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic buildings, Bakklandet Old Town is designated as a protected cultural district. The area is home to restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, and supermarkets, making it the perfect place to take a break, grab a meal, or buy souvenirs.

Bakklandet is always bustling with activity, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere. It serves as the cultural heart of Trondheim and a must-visit spot for any tourist.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced five must-visit attractions in Trondheim, but there are many more places worth exploring!

Although not yet widely known in Japan, Trondheim is a charming and historically rich city, featuring picturesque streets, historic landmarks, and stunning fjord views. It’s an underrated Nordic destination that is likely to become increasingly popular in the future.

Why not visit Trondheim before it becomes a mainstream tourist spot? A fairy-tale world awaits!

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5 Must-Visit Historical Sites in Trondheim, Norway