Those who are looking for the Northern Lights usually go to the north of the Arctic, but Oslo attracts more those who are in one way or another connected with art – and thus all other cities in Norway are forgotten. But leave some space and time in your itinerary for Trondheim, the former capital and third largest city in the country.
The largest fortress in Scandinavia is located here, the nightlife is vibrant, there are a lot of nice museums and galleries – and at least 7 more reasons why you should definitely stay here.
See all the power of the Middle Ages in Nidaros Domkirke
The most famous medieval building, Nidaros Domkirke in northern Europe, inspires many with its power and structure. The fortress was built on the tomb of St. Olaf, the “eternal” king of Norway and its patron saint, canonized 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, others turn out to be simply fans of the rock band Mayhem, which posted a photo of the building on the cover of their first album.
Dance the day away
If you want music, you don’t have to wait until sunset: in Trondheim there is Rockheim – something between a museum and a cultural center that covers the history of music from the 50s of the last century to the present day. Interactive displays and music stations will easily keep you busy for the day, but after the sun goes down, head to Fru Lundgreen, a basement bar that plays quality Scandinavian rock.
Immerse yourself in the history of Norway
Historical buildings and monuments are well preserved in Trondheim, which is why this city is great for those who want to feel nostalgic.
The Archbishop’s Residence is considered the oldest secular building in all of Scandinavia – the first foundation stones were laid back in the 12th century.
Nearby is the Domkirke Lutheran Church and the palace museum, which will tell the history of the city since the Iron Age.
Another place that will definitely send you back to the past is the Folk Museum,
but it only works in summer. This is a large open-air area where rural houses from different times are collected.
See how monks live on the island of Munkholmen
If you want to see the spiritual side of Trondheim, head to the island of Munkholmen. The tiny island, washed by the cold waters of Trondheimsfjord, is thought to be home to a Benedictine monastery.
In the 17th century there was a prison here, but today it is a great place for a picnic.
In good weather, boats leave for the island every hour.
Experience Norway from the bright side
Norway is a colorful country, you just need to know where to look. To see the city’s most vibrant district, Gamle Bybro, head to the Old Town Bridge. From here you have a wonderful view of warehouses of all possible colors, so funny reflected in the water of the Nidelven River.
Don’t be surprised if your mood suddenly lifts – this bridge is called the “Gateway of Happiness”. The bridge symbolizes the beginning of a new stage in the life of Trondheim after the fire of 1681.
On the eastern side of the bridge begins one of the most vibrant streets in the city – Bakklandet Street. There are many shops with cozy windows and cafes in shades of red and pink.
Learn Viking traditions
It’s no secret that dining out in a Norwegian restaurant can be detrimental to your bank account. However, you can find reasonable rates. For example, they can be offered by the Baklandet Skydsstation restaurant. It is housed in a charming 18th-century building whose walls are decorated with embroidery and old photographs. This is a great place to try different types of herring, rye bread sandwiches and fish soup. The best addition to dinner will be aquavit – Norwegian vodka, of which there are more than 100 types in this restaurant.
If you need a vegetarian option, then go to Persilleriet.
Brits will probably be puzzled by the way English pubs are presented here, so it’s best to stick to something more local. Excellent craft beer is served in the cozy and colorful Trondheim Mikrobryggeri.
Enjoy the fjords, fishing and ski slopes
Great discoveries await you outside the city: beyond Trondheim is Trondheimsfjord, Norway’s third largest fjord (its length is about 126 km). This is a great place for fishing and barbecue. The best time for this is late winter or early spring.
If you want to have a more lively time, then head south from Trondheim to the Vassfjellet ski center.
Source: roughguides.com
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