The Viking capital of Norway
This is a city with a long and interesting history, but the first thing you’ll notice about Trondheim – besides the vivid colours and rich tapestry of architectural styles – is the small town friendliness that permeates the atmosphere.
As Norway’s third largest city, just shy of 200,000 people, Trondheim is full of life, with numerous scenic viewpoints, historical sites and museums to visit, many within walking distance from the lively pubs, cafes and shops of the city centre and waterfront area.
Founded in the year 997 AD as a Viking trading post, Trondheim briefly served as the capital of Norway. Later, during the Middle Ages when the city was known as Nidaros, it was the seat of the Archdiocese and Northern Europe's most important Christian pilgrimage site.
Although wars and fire ravaged this medieval city in the 17th century, a number of relics survived to this day, including the imposting and ornate Nidaros Cathedral – one of the city’s top sights.
Another of Trondheim’s most cherished link to its past is the charming and trendy area of Bakklandet district with its cobbled streets, well-tended gardens and rows of colourful, old wooden houses overlooking the Nidelven River.
And a little further to the east – for those who desire a workout to burn off those vacation calories – a walk up the steep sidewalks to the to the 17th century Kristiansten Fortress is well worth it for the panoramic view over the city, hills and coastline from its canon-lined ramparts.
With so much to enjoy, Trondheim is a fabulous destination on its own, but it also serves as a popular connecting point between the Dovre Railway (Trondheim-Oslo line) and the coastal cruises that sail along the coast between Kirkenes and Bergen.
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