13 BEST Things To Do in Trondheim, Norway: Havila Port Guide
Trondheim probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you’re dreaming of a trip to Norway, but this underrated city has some of the most picturesque streets in the country!
This ultimate Trondheim travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Norway’s former capital, whether you’re staying overnight or passing through on Havila or Hurtigruten.
I visited Trondheim twice on my solo Havila voyage in winter (northbound and southbound), and had around three hours each time to explore.
The port is within walking distance, the city is compact, and the main sights are all within easy reach, making Trondheim one of the easiest Coastal Express ports to explore solo!
So, if you want to know exactly what’s worth seeing, how to get around, and how to make the most of your short port stop, let’s get into the best things to do in Trondheim!
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Where Is Trondheim in Norway?
Trondheim is a city in central Norway that’s often described as the country’s “historical heart.” It’s located between the fjords to the south and the Arctic further north.
Norway’s former capital is also one of the easiest places to explore independently if you’re arriving with the Coastal Express, because the port is an easy walk from the main sights.
Everything you’ll want to see, from Nidaros Cathedral to the colourful streets of Bakklandet, is located around the beautiful Nidelva River, which makes it easy to plan your day here!
Is Trondheim Worth Visiting?
Yes! Trondheim is a calm, colourful and safe-feeling city in Norway, even when I visited as a solo female traveller in the middle of winter.
I also think Trondheim is worth visiting because it gives you a sense of Norway beyond just the fjords. It feels very local and authentic, with colourful houses, charming cafés, historical buildings, riverfront views, and easy walking paths.
And if you’re stopping here on a Havila or Hurtigruten voyage, most of the best things to do in Trondheim are within walking distance of the port, making it one of the most low-stress stops along the route.
How to Visit Trondheim
Flying into Trondheim
Trondheim’s airport, Trondheim Vaernes, is 45 minutes from the city by train or shuttle.
Daily flights connect with Oslo and other major European airports, making it one of the simplest ways to reach central Norway.
From the airport, a train runs directly to Trondheim S Station, right in the city centre.
Arriving by Train
If you prefer a slow, scenic journey, the train from Oslo to Trondheim is a great option.
It takes around 7 hours and runs through forests and valleys, and past beautiful mountain scenery.
Trondheim’s train station is then a short walk from the city centre.
Arriving on the Coastal Express
This is what I did, and it’s the easiest way to visit if you’re already travelling through Norway.
Havila and Hurtigruten both stop in Trondheim daily, northbound and southbound, and the port is an easy walk from the city centre.
On my voyage with Havila, I had 3 hours each way to explore, which was enough time to see the very best things to do in Trondheim without rushing.
How to Get Around Trondheim
Trondheim is very walkable, but know that some of the main attractions (like Nidaros Cathedral or Kristiansten Fortress) are a 30+ minute walk from the port.
I personally walked it both ways during my port stop in Trondheim, and it was fine.
But if you don’t fancy it, public transport is reliable and easy to use. As an example, there is a regular bus from Brattøra (near the port) to Nidaros Cathedral, which takes just 6 minutes.
If you prefer something more structured, there are also organised excursions offered by both Havila and Hurtigruten.
These are great if you want no planning and guaranteed transport, but honestly, most best things to do in Trondheim are simple (and cheaper!) to do independently.
13 Best Things to Do in Trondheim, Norway
1. Explore Nidaros Cathedral
Nidaros Cathedral is the most famous tourist attraction in Trondheim, and honestly, even if you only see it from the outside (like I did), you’ll see why.
It’s a truly breathtaking cathedral!
Nidaros is the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, built in a striking Gothic style, and has been an important destination for pilgrims for almost 1000 years.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful Gothic and Romanesque architecture, including the Altar of the Holy Cross, the Sami altar and the High altar.
But even just from the outside, Nidaros is well worth the 30-minute walk from port.
I especially loved walking around the grounds early in the morning on the southbound leg, because the area just felt so peaceful before the tourist groups arrived.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re travelling on the Havila Coastal Route, you can book an excursion that includes entry to this incredible cathedral, or you can check opening times and visit independently. Just keep in mind that, especially in winter, opening times vary – so make sure you double-check (or book the excursion) if you have your heart set on visiting inside.
2. Tour the Archbishop’s Palace
Right next to Nidaros Cathedral is the Archbishop’s Palace, another one of the big Trondheim tourist attractions that’s fascinating if you want to learn more about Norway’s history.
This medieval palace is one of Norway’s oldest secular buildings, with origins dating back as far as the 12th century, despite a fire causing devastation in 1983.
Inside, you’ll find exhibitions about the city’s history, Norway’s military, the royal regalia, and how the Archbishop’s Palace has changed through the ages.
There are 3 museums to explore inside the Archbishop’s Palace:
- The Crown Regalia
- The Archbishop’s Palace Museum
- The Armoury Military Museum
This is also a really good indoor option, especially if you’re visiting during winter and the unpredictable Norwegian weather is not playing ball!
But, if you visit when it’s closed or don’t have time to enter, it is well worth a photo stop anyway, to admire the façade of this imposing medieval building.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you want to visit inside this fascinating museum, you’ll have to visit on the northbound voyage of the Coastal Express, as the southbound leg doesn’t match the short opening hours. (Currently 11am – 3pm.)
3. Explore the Colourful Bakklandet Neighbourhood
I don’t know about you, but beautiful Bakklandet, just across the Nidelva River from the city centre, is exactly the kind of neighbourhood I imagine when I picture a cosy Norwegian city.
The entire neighbourhood is home to colourful wooden houses, artisan shops and cute cafés. It all feels very authentic and local!
I especially loved visiting Bakklandet in the early morning on the southbound voyage, watching local life wake up as I walked the quaint streets without any real plan or map.
So if you’re only in the city for a few hours on your Havila port stop, exploring this beautiful neighbourhood is one of the absolute best things to do in Trondheim.
(And it was actually my personal favourite stop of my whole Trondheim itinerary!)
Katie’s Top Tip: If you have time, make sure you stop for a coffee at one of the little cafés here! I recommend you try Kaffebrenneriet avd Bakklandet.
4. Enjoy the View from Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge)
Gamle Bybro is the iconic red bridge that pops up in every list of tourist attractions in Trondheim! (But don’t worry, it’s not overhyped. It truly deserves its place.)
The view over the Nidelva River and colourful warehouses from this bridge is arguably the prettiest viewpoint in the entire city.
And, as a bonus, it’s actually the bridge you will use to walk across the river to the colourful neighbourhood of Bakklandet – so you can easily pair the two!
The bridge itself dates back to 1681, when the city was being restored after the Great Fire.
It’s a truly iconic Trondheim photo spot!
Katie’s Top Tip: Make sure you spend some time photographing both sides of the bridge. Most people want the iconic shot of the colourful warehouses lining the river, but on the other side, you’ll see the leafy Marinen Park.
5. Ride the World’s Northernmost Tram
The Gråkallen Tram is officially the world’s northernmost tram, and easily one of the quirkiest Trondheim tourist attractions!
Operating since 1924, the route gives you stunning views of the city, all the way to its final stop, Lian, along its narrow 8.8km (or 5.5 mile) line.
I personally did this as a Havila excursion on my northbound voyage because the weather was too awful for sightseeing that morning.
And honestly? It was such a cosy (and dry!) way to experience this beautiful city.
The tram itself is an adorable vintage carriage from the 1950s, with all of its original interior décor and signage.
And the route winds through quiet neighbourhoods until it reaches its final stop at Lian, where, in winter, we had a photo opportunity over the frozen lake and forest.
If the weather is good, I’d generally recommend exploring Trondheim on foot (it’s the best way to see the city). But if you have bad weather, this excursion is a great alternative!
It’s also perfect if you’re doing the tram ride as a northbound excursion and then want to explore the city solo on your southbound stop.
Katie’s Top Tip: You can also do this independently (and a lot more affordably), on the regular trams that run the route. To buy a ticket, use the AtB app or a ticket machine. But keep in mind that your journey this way will be on a modern tram, rather than a vintage one.
6. See the Nidelva Waterfront Promenade
The Nidelva River curves all around Trondheim city centre, and walking along the waterfront is one of the best things to do in Trondheim.
This is also the easiest spot to get to if you’re visiting Trondheim with Havila or Hurtigruten, as the waterfront is just a 20-minute walk from the port.
The best spot for photos is by the Trondheim S Station, where you’ll look out across the water at Trondheim’s signature colourful warehouses, small boats and of course the beautiful river.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re on the Coastal Express, do this walk either first or last on your Trondheim self-guided route. It’s a great, scenic way to break up the longer walk to and from the port and attractions like Nidaros Cathedral or Bakklandet.
7. Visit Torvet Town Square
Torvet is Trondheim’s central market square, and it’s very hard to miss as it’s right in the heart of the city centre.
This grand square is surrounded by cafés, bakeries and shops, so it’s perfect if you want to warm up indoors, grab a snack, shop for gifts or souvenirs, or even stock up on supplies before heading back to the ship.
And, if you’re visiting in December, Torvet is the location of Trondheim’s Christmas Market.
Also, take the time to explore some of the colourful surrounding streets rather than just ticking the square off your list. There are some beautiful residential streets in this area!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re cold or need a quick snack break, definitely try Dromedar Kaffebar (just off the square). I loved their cinnamon buns!
8. See Stiftsgården Palace & Gardens
Stiftsgården is located very close to Torvet Town Square, so you can’t miss it!
It’s Trondheim’s baroque royal residence, painted in an iconic mustard-yellow, and has been used by Norway’s royals since the 1800s.
And it’s even still used as a royal residence today, when the Norwegian Royal Family is visiting Trondheim, which makes it one of the most interesting things to see in Trondheim!
You can join a guided tour of the grand halls and rooms in the summer (from June 1st), but even admiring the exterior and surrounding park is a must-do in Trondheim in any season.
During my winter visit to Trondheim, I especially loved Stiftsgården park, in front of the palace, which was small but surprisingly quiet.
For a palace right in the centre of everything, this tiny patch of green space, with its small fountain and neat borders, felt like a peaceful escape from the busy city!
Katie’s Top Tip: This park is a great, peaceful spot to bring a takeaway coffee and cinnamon bun from nearby Dromedar Kaffebar, and just sit for a while!
9. View Munkholmen Island
Munkholmen is a tiny island, located right at the start of the approach to Trondheim port.
During its long and fascinating history, it has been a fortress, a monastery, a site of execution, a prison and even a World War II anti-aircraft gun station.
You can take short boat trips to visit the island in summer, between May and September.
Once on the island, you can then swim, enjoy food and drink with spectacular harbour views, and learn more about its fascinating history.
But for the rest of the year, you can only admire Munkholmen from a distance.
If you’re sailing on Havila or Hurtigruten, you’ll get a fairly close pass (on my voyage, this was on the departure), so if you’re a Coastal Express passenger, you’ll get the best view of the island without needing to book a thing!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you want the best harbour view of Munkholmen on foot, head to the small lighthouse and scenic point, Torodden fyrtårn (near the Hurtigruten terminal).
10. Follow the Trondheim City Centre Loop
The Trondheim Loop (or Midtbyrunden walk) takes you around the city centre of Trondheim, which is perfect if you want an easy, flat, structured route to follow!
The entire 5.9km loop is clearly signposted with green signs that read “Midtbyrunden”, and you can start at one of the three popular starting points: Solsiden, Marinen and Skansen.
If you’re joining this walk from the Norway Coastal Express, I personally recommend you start your walk at Solsiden, as this is closest to the port.
This route is one of the best and easiest ways to see all of Trondheim’s top attractions, including Nidaros Cathedral, Bakklandet, Gamle Bybro and the Nidelva riverfront.
It takes around 1.5 hours to walk, depending on your pace, so you have plenty of time during your 3-hour port call in Trondheim.
Katie’s Top Tip: The route is clearly signed and easy to navigate, but make sure you get familiar with the map too, before you set off on your walk. And if you don’t want to do the whole loop, I recommend the section between Solsiden and Nidaros Cathedral as it’s the prettiest part.
11. Half-Day Trip to Lian
If you’ve already been to Trondheim before or want to do something totally unique, hop on the tram up to Lian.
As I mentioned earlier, this is the northernmost tram line in the world, but beautiful Lian is worth exploring in its own right.
Lian itself is very peaceful, with a small lake, forest trails to hike, and a feeling that you’re out in deep nature – even though you’re only 30 minutes from the city centre!
Especially in spring, summer and autumn, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed walk, a few photos, and to just enjoy being somewhere quiet.
In winter, it’s less easy to enjoy everything Lian has to offer, as the trails are icy and the lake is frozen over, but it’s still a beautiful photo spot.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, wear proper boots with good grip and also slip-on crampons. The paths around Lian (even just around the tram stop) get seriously icy. I saw multiple people slip here, so crampons will make sure you stay upright and safe.
12. Explore Kristiansten Fortress
Kristiansten Fortress is one of the most iconic Trondheim attractions, and it’s genuinely worth the uphill walk for the incredible views over Trondheim’s rooftops and river!
Built in the 17th century to protect Trondheim from attacks (and also used in World War II), the fortress is surprisingly still intact, with old cannons and distinctive whitewashed walls.
Inside the fortress, you can visit the popular museum and also the dungeon.
But the park surrounding the fortress is the real star of the show, with iconic views over the city, mountains and the surrounding Trondheim fjord!
The fortress is open every day of the year (as long as the flag is flying – which you can see from most spots in the city). Entrance to the grounds is totally free.
Katie’s Top Tip: The walk from the port takes around 35 minutes, and the final section is short but steep. If you don’t fancy the walk, take the regular public bus from the port to Ankers Gate, which takes 15 minutes and is the closest stop to the fortress.
13. Join the Norway Coastal Express
If you’re not already visiting Trondheim on the Coastal Express, I definitely recommend you book even a short voyage to explore more of Norway’s spectacular coast!
It’s not quite a Trondheim day trip, but if you’re in this part of Norway for an extended time, definitely consider one of these popular port-to-port trips from Trondheim:
- Trondheim to Bergen: This short, overnight voyage takes you to Norway’s beautiful second city, famous for its historic Bryggen Wharf and funicular with spectacular fjord views.
- Trondheim to Tromsø: In just two nights, you can be in the heart of the Arctic, chasing the Northern Lights or enjoying some of the best things to do in Tromsø, like the Fjellheisen Cable Car!
- Trondheim to Kirkenes: If you want to explore even further, this 4-night hop takes you to the far north of Norway. Along the way, you can visit the iconic North Cape, go husky sledding in Kirkenes and see some of the most incredible Arctic scenery!
Trondheim sits in a really interesting spot on the route, as the gateway between the southern fjords and the wilder, more remote north.
So from here, the scenery gets progressively more dramatic, the stops become more unique, and the whole trip feels like such an adventure!
Katie’s Top Tip: Of course, I would absolutely recommend booking the full 12-day round-trip for the ultimate experience on board the Norway Coastal Express. But if that’s not possible, one of those three spectacular port-to-port hops I mentioned will give you a spectacular glimpse of Norway’s coastline!
Final Thoughts
Trondheim definitely isn’t the first city that comes to mind when you think of visiting Norway, but that’s exactly why I loved it! Despite its growing popularity, it still felt very local and authentic.
It’s also safe, easy to navigate, and full of genuinely interesting things to do, whether you’re here for a few hours with Havila or Hurtigruten or exploring on your own.
I hope this guide has made planning your time in beautiful Trondheim easier and helped you see the best things to do in Trondheim during even the shortest port calls!
Trondheim Travel FAQs
Is Trondheim safe for solo female travellers?
Trondheim is one of the places in Norway where I personally felt the most relaxed as a solo female traveller.
The city centre is compact, easily walkable and there are always locals and other tourists around (even during the early morning southbound port call). I spent hours walking around by myself during my Havila stop and never once felt uneasy or unsafe.
If you want detailed safety advice for Norway, I have a full guide on whether or not Norway is safe for solo female travellers.
Where to stay in Trondheim?
If you’re staying overnight, the best areas to stay are the city centre and Bakklandet.
Staying in the city centre puts you close to shops, cafés, the train station, the port, and the majority of the main tourist attractions in Trondheim. I recommend Scandic Nidelven.
Bakklandet, however, is Trondheim’s prettiest and more local neighbourhood, with colourful houses, cosy cafés and pretty streets along the river. Plus, it’s only a short walk from the centre. I recommend Scandic Bakklandet.
How many days do you need in Trondheim?
If you’re stopping here with Havila or Hurtigruten, a few hours is enough to see the highlights. The port is close to everything, and most tourist attractions in Trondheim are within an easy bus ride or 30-minute walk.
Even with a short stop, you see the colourful riverfront, Nidaros Cathedral, Old Town Bridge, Bakklandet, and even Kristiansten Fortress (if you don’t mind a bit of uphill walking.)
But if you’re visiting independently, 2-3 full days is perfect for first-timers. It gives you enough time to explore all of the highlights at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Trondheim?
You technically can, but you absolutely shouldn’t visit Trondheim just for this reason, as sightings are rare.
Trondheim sits quite far south compared to popular aurora hotspots like Tromsø or the Lofoten Islands. Because of this, the lights are not guaranteed – so you’d have to have luck on your side!
If seeing the Northern Lights is a priority for you, I’d recommend travelling further north.
How walkable is Trondheim?
Trondheim is incredibly walkable. The city centre is compact, flat, and easy to navigate.
Plus, most of the best things to do in Trondheim are within 10–20 minutes of each other, and the port is close enough that you can walk within 30 minutes or take the bus.
The only part that isn’t flat is the climb to Kristiansten Fortress. It’s short but steep, and does get slippy in winter. But there are also local buses that take you most of the way up.
Do you have enough time to visit Trondheim if you’re on the Norway Coastal Express?
Yes, Trondheim is one of the best stops on the Norway Coastal Express itinerary!
Whether you’re sailing with Havila or Hurtigruten, you’ll get around three hours here northbound and again southbound to explore, which is enough time to see most of the top attractions without rushing.
On my own Havila voyage, I booked an excursion on the northernmost tram in the world to beautiful Lian (because of the weather), and then did a self-guided walk southbound, exploring most of the other attractions mentioned in this guide.
Read More About Travel in Norway:
- Northbound vs Southbound Norway Coastal Express: Compared
- What to Wear in Norway in Winter? (+ Norway Packing List)
- How to Plan a Trip to Norway in Winter (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Norway vs Iceland in Winter: Ultimate Solo Travel Comparison
- Where to Stay in Bergen (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Where to Stay in Tromsø (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Hurtigruten vs Havila: Which is Best For Solo Travellers?
- Is Saltstraumen Worth Visiting from Bodø? (+ What to Expect)
- How to Get Around Norway in Winter (Without a Car!)
- How to Visit Trollfjord: Northern Norway’s Most Iconic Fjord
- How to Visit Mostraumen Fjord (Bergen’s Best Day Trip!)
- 7 Things To Do in Hammerfest (Hammerfest Travel Guide)
- Mount Aksla Hike: How to Find the Best Ålesund Viewpoint
- 8 BEST Things To Do in Brønnøysund, Norway: Havila Port Stop
- 21 Most Beautiful Places in Norway You Have To Visit
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I’ve actually never heard of Trondheim, but since I’m planning a Norway trip for next year, I’m really glad I found this post! Thank you for such a thorough overview of the different attractions and things to do in Trondheim, it seems quaint but super interesting! I’ll definitely be adding a stop to Trondheim on my future itinerary!
Amazing – I hope you have the best time in Norway next year! I visited Trondheim in winter with the Coastal Express and was honestly surprised by how much I loved it as it’s so underrated! Bakklandet is the perfect neighbourhood for a walk and then if the cute vintage 50s tram is running the Lian route, that’s also so worthwhile!
A idyllic location to explore and enjoy the sights for a day trip, love the original little trams.
Yes, I love Trondheim! It’s so underrated in Norway but there’s so much to explore, and the tram to Lian is iconic – especially if you visit when the traditional 1950s carriage is running the route!