Those who seek the Northern Lights usually go to the north of the Arctic. Oslo, however, attracts those who are one way or another connected with art – and all other cities in Norway are forgotten. But leave some space and time in your schedule for Trondheim, the former capital and third largest city in the country.
Here is the biggest fortress in Scandinavia. This is the city that never sleeps and there are lots of nice museums and galleries – and at least another 7 reasons why you should definitely spend your time here.
Witness the grandeur of the Middle Ages in Nidaros Domkirke
The most famous medieval building Nidaros Domkirke in northern Europe serves as inspiration for many people through its might and structure. They built the fortress on the grave of St. Olaf, the “eternal” king of Norway and its protector, who was credited with being a saint after the country’s transition from paganism to Christianity.
Interestingly, the fortress attracts two types of pilgrims: some simply follow the 640-kilometer route from Oslo, while others are just fans of the rock band Mayhem, which posted a photo of the building on the cover of its first album.
Dance all day long
If you want music, you don’t have to wait until sunset: you have Rockheim in Trondheim. This is something between a museum and a cultural center that covers the history of music from the 50s of the last century to present days. Interactive displays and music stations will easily fill your entire day, but after the sunset, it’s best to go to Fru Lundgreen, a bar in the basement where high-quality Scandinavian rock plays.
Immerse yourself in the history of Norway
Historical buildings and monuments are perfectly preserved in Trondheim, which is why this city is ideal for those who want to feel nostalgic.
It is believed that the Archbishop’s residence is the oldest secular building in all of Scandinavia – the first foundation stones were laid in the XII century.
Not far from it is the Domkirke Lutheran temple and the palace museum, which tells the story of the city from the Iron Age.
Another place that definitely sends into the past is the Folk Museum, but it only works in summer. This is a large open-air territory which encompasses rural houses at different times.
See the life of monks on the island of Munkholmen
If you want to see the spiritual side of Trondheim, travel to the island of Munkholmen. The tiny island, washed by the cold waters of the Trondheimsfjord, serves as home to a Benedictine monastery.
In the 17th century there was a prison here, but today it is an excellent space for a picnic.
In good weather, boats leave for the island every hour.
Discover Norway from the bright side
Norway is a colorful country and you just need to know where to look. In order to see the brightest area of the city – Gamle Bybro, go to the Old Town Bridge. From there you have a beautiful view of the storage rooms of all possible colors, which are interestingly reflected in the water of the Nidelven River.
Do not be surprised if all of a sudden your mood improves – this bridge is known as the Gate of Happiness. The bridge symbolizes the beginning of a new stage of Trondheim life after the fire of 1681.
On the east side of the bridge begins one of the most beautiful streets in the city – Bakklandet Street. There are many shops with cozy windows and cafes of bright pink and red colors.
Find out about Viking traditions
It is no secret that a dinner at a Norwegian restaurant can have negative consequences for your bank account. However, you can also find reasonable prices. The Baklandet Skydsstation restaurant offers may offer that. It is located in a charming 18th-century building with embroidery and old photographs decorating the walls. This is a great place to try different types of herring, rye bread sandwiches, and fish soup. The best addition to the dinner will be aquavit – Norwegian vodka, which is present in more than 100 variations in this restaurant.
If you are searching for a vegetarian menu, then go to Persilleriet.
The look and feel of English pubs will puzzle even the British people, so it’s better to focus on something more local. Excellent craft beer is poured in a cozy and colorful Trondheim Mikrobryggeri.
Enjoy the fjords, fishing and ski slopes
Huge discoveries are waiting for you outside the city: beyond Trondheim is the Trondheimsfjord – Norway’s third largest fjord (its length is about 126 km). This is a great place for fishing and a barbecue. The best time for this is late winter or early spring.
If you want to spend time more actively, then go south from Trondheim to the Vassfjellet ski center.
Snow Wizard 