Trondheim Travel Guide

Nidaros Cathedral (Nidarosdomen) in central Trondheim is one of Norway's most important religious buildings and the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world. Construction began in the late 11th century over the tomb of St Olav, and the main structure was largely complete around 1300 in a Gothic style; the richly carved west front is considered a masterpiece of Norwegian stone architecture. Long a national shrine and the site of royal coronations and burials, it carries both religious and national significance. Damaged by fire and restored many times, it is still in use as a cathedral and open to visitors. The adjacent Archbishop's Palace houses a museum, so the two can be seen together to understand the church and Trondheim's religious history. Respect service times and keep quiet when visiting.

Gamle Bybro (the Old Town Bridge) crosses the river Nidelva, linking central Trondheim with the old Bakklandet district, and is one of the city's best-known landmarks. The present bridge was built in the 1680s, replacing earlier crossings; it is a wooden structure with striking red gateways at each end, known locally as the Gate of Happiness. From the bridge there is a classic view of the river, the colourful wooden houses and old warehouses along the banks, especially the row of wooden houses in Bakklandet, often used to represent the city. The bridge carries pedestrians and cyclists and the area around it is popular for walking and photography. Note the rules on the bridge, where cyclists and pedestrians share the space, and give way to others.

The Archbishop's Palace (Erkebispegarden) stands beside Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim and was the residence of Norway's medieval archbishops, with a history reaching back to the 12th century; it is considered one of the oldest surviving secular buildings in Scandinavia. After the Reformation the palace was turned to military use and long served as part of a fortress and barracks, which led to repeated alterations. Today it houses museums displaying the Norwegian royal regalia and church and military collections, with the crown regalia exhibition a highlight. Its position next to Nidaros Cathedral makes it easy to visit the two together. Some areas are still used officially, so the extent and hours of access follow on-site notices; observe the museum rules during your visit.

Kristiansten Fortress (Kristiansten festning) stands on a hill east of central Trondheim and was built in the late 17th century to defend the city. After the great fire of 1681, Trondheim was rebuilt with a new defence system, and the fortress was completed in the early-to-mid 1680s on high ground overlooking the city, the river Nidelva and the fjord. It withstood a siege in the early 18th century, after which its military role gradually declined. Today the ramparts, courtyards and surrounding green space are open to the public as a park and a place for walks and city views. Because the site is on high ground with slopes and stone steps, wear comfortable shoes and note that some areas may have limited opening hours.