Things to do in Trondheim
The beautiful fjords, stunning hikes, pristine islands and charming towns like Bergen overshadow a little gem called Trondheim in Norway. A cute little city, Trondheim lies 500 kms north of Oslo and on the shore of a fjord which goes by the same name. Once the capital of the Vikings, today it’s a vibrant city thanks to the largest university in Norway. After witnessing the Northern Lights in Bodø, Trondheim was a perfect day trip on my way to Oslo. Here are the top things to do in Trondheim
Nidaros Cathedral
Nidaros Cathedral is built over the tomb of St Olav, the patron saint of Norway who is credited with starting the Christianising amongst the Vikings. Trondheim was earlier called as Nidaros (since river Nid flows through the city) and hence the name of the cathedral. Pilgrim’s route or St Olav Ways is a pilgrimage route which begins outside Oslo and ends at the Nidaros Cathedral to pay tribute to the patron saint. It’s a long distance walk which earns you a certificate on completion alongwith with the other intangible benefits of a pilgrimage. Visit here to plan for this long distance walk. Adults are charged a fee of 120 NOK (10 USD) for the cathedral while students and children are offered a 50% discount. The timings keep on changing as per the season. For more information on timings visit this website
Kaying in Trondheim on River Nid (Nidelva)
Kayaking is a great way to explore Trondheim. Although I did not have time to experience it first-hand, it surely looked a lot of fun and refreshing. To know more about the various activities and rentals visit here
Walking the Old Town Bridge
Walking around this beautiful city is an extremely fulfilling experience especially around the Bakklandet neighbourhood. The colorful wooden houses are way too charming and one can spend a good enough time just photographing them. While walking you are bound to cross the famous Old Town Bridge. This is the perfect spot to witness the charm of Bakklandet as row of colorful houses line up on each side of the river. The Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro) is also called the Portal of Happiness and it doesn’t take time to realize why!
Kristiansten Fortress
Kristiansten fortress was built on a hill to protect Trondheim from possible attacks. Norway successfully defended itself against Swedish invasion during the Great Northern War during 1718 thanks to the fortress. Only a 500m walk (albeit a steep one) from the old bridge, it’s a perfect spot to see a panoramic view of Trondheim.
How to reach Trondheim
Trondheim is well connected to Oslo by train, plane and buses. If you are a Eurail Pass holder then the best option will be to catch a night train from Oslo which starts at 11:00 pm and reaches Trondheim by 6:30 am. If you traveling southwards from Bodø, then a night train from Bodø at 9:00 pm will reach Trondheim by 7:15 am. One can spend a complete day and catch a night train from Trondheim back to Oslo at 11:00 pm.