Travel Guide of Trondheim, Norway for: Clarion Collection Hotel Grand Olav Rating: 4.0 Pearls

Trondheim, Norway

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Nidaros Cathedral

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Trondheim Summary

What It's Like

Trondheim is a historic city -- it was founded in 997 A.D. -- but one might not guess it upon first glance. Fires have ravaged the city regularly over the years, and today, many of the buildings are modern, though cobblestones on some of the oldest streets and the iconic Nidaros Cathedral -- its spire is the most prominent feature of the city skyline -- give some sense of its true age. To feel immersed in the city's history, visitors should head to the Old Town Bridge, which faces a colorful row of wharves (some of which date back to the 18th century), and the Bakklandet area, a revitalized shopping and cafe hub with charming wooden buildings that were once worker's houses.

Trondheim also has numerous cultural attractions. It's a university city (one in six residents is a student) with a lively nightlife scene, and there are many musical performances and festivals held here. Though this is the third largest city in Norway, the downtown area is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Where To Stay

Trondheim has a small boot-shaped city center with the ocean to the north and the River Nidelva to the south and east. Most visitors will want to stay here, and it's small enough that any hotels here will be within walking distance of some of the sights. Still, most will find it convenient to stay near either Nordre gate, the main shopping street, or on the eastern side of town for closest proximity to the Old Town Bridge and Bakklandet. The northernmost section of town -- separated from the core downtown area by a river inlet -- does have a footbridge connecting it to all the action.

Visitors may also want to take into account the airport bus drop-off locations when picking a hotel; the closer the hotel is to a drop-off spot, the less lugging of suitcases required. Taxis are also available from the airport and around town.