Trondheim, Norway - Cruise Port
Basics You Need to Know!
Welcome to Trondheim, Norway! A city where old meets new in the best possible way. From its rich history to its modern vibe, Trondheim is a must-visit for anyone cruising to Norway. In this post, we’ll cover the basics of the port, transport options, and highlight five things you can’t miss during your visit. Plus, if you’re hunting for a stylish coat, we’ve got you covered!
About Trondheim
Trondheim is located on the Trondheim Fjord in central Norway. It’s the third-largest city in the country and known for being a hub of high-tech education and research. But it’s also packed with history, especially when it comes to Norwegian royalty and trade. Often called the religious and technological capital of Norway, key sights in Trondheim include the famous Nidaros Cathedral and the charming Bakklandet district.
Though most cruise excursions focus on city tours and stops like the Sverresborg Folk Museum, Trondheim is easy to explore on your own.
Port Overview
The port is pretty basic with no dedicated terminal. You’ll dock at Brattora, located on the northern edge of the city. It has one berth, with additional space for larger ships in the area. Nearby, you’ll find the Rocheim Museum of Rock History, a large swimming complex, and a high-tech research center. Friendly volunteers will hand out maps, and there are benches where you can relax and enjoy the harbor view. Don’t forget to grab an ice cream from Simens Isbar while you’re at it!
Getting Around Trondheim
Walking is by far the easiest way to explore Trondheim. From the port, simply follow the sidewalk, take a right after about five minutes, and you’ll reach the yellow submarine sculpture. Cross the street and walk across the Sondre Bridge to reach the heart of the city. The Nidaros Cathedral is about a 30-minute walk, and the Bakklandet district is just a bit further.
Other transport options:
Biking: Trondheim is very bike-friendly with dedicated lanes and flat streets. You can rent bikes using the Trondheim City Bike app or try out e-bikes at Trondheim Bike Adventures, located right across from the port.
Public Transport: Buses and trams are available via AtB. Their app and website make it easy to plan your routes and pay.
Taxis & Uber: Both options are available in Trondheim. TronderTaxi is the local service, but note that their app doesn’t support foreign phone numbers. You can call them at 07373 or 98 70 73 73 for service.
Top 5 Things to Do in Trondheim
Here are the top five things you absolutely shouldn’t miss when you visit Trondheim:
1. Thrift Shopping in Fjordgata
If you love finding unique items, head to Fjordgata after crossing the Sondre Bridge. This street is lined with second-hand stores, and my wife found an amazing Swedish coat at Fretex Bruktbutikk. It’s a gem for thrift lovers looking for authentic, inexpensive pieces.
2. Stiftsgarden Park and Town Square
On your way to the cathedral, stop by Stiftsgarden Park, which faces the royal residence. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the views of the royal gardens. In summer, you can also take a guided tour of the royal residence. A short walk from the park will lead you to the town square, where you can grab a snack and check out the statue of Olav Tryggvason, the Viking founder and patron saint of Norway.
3. Nidaros Cathedral & Archbishop’s Palace
Nidaros Cathedral is Trondheim’s crown jewel! A 10-minute walk south from the town square will bring you to this incredible cathedral. Built over 230 years, it houses the tomb of Saint Olav. A combo ticket also includes access to the Archbishop’s Palace, where you can see the Royal Regalia (Norwegian crown jewels). It’s worth spending a couple of hours here soaking in the history and stunning architecture.
4. Bakklandet District
Just a short walk northeast from the cathedral is Bakklandet, an iconic district filled with charming cobblestone streets and colorful pastel houses. This area is perfect for photos! It’s also home to high-end shops and restaurants, so if you’re on a budget, consider packing a lunch or grabbing a hot dog from 7-Eleven while enjoying the riverside views.
5. Rockheim Museum
For something a little different, head north for about 25-30 minutes to visit Rockheim, Norway’s museum of pop music. This interactive museum is packed with fun exhibits about Norwegian pop culture, from dance moves to DJing. It’s an immersive experience that’s perfect for music lovers and definitely worth the time.
Final Thoughts
Trondheim quickly became one of my favorite cities in Norway. Its blend of history, culture, and modern attractions makes it an exciting destination. With everything so close together, it’s easy to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or music, Trondheim has something for everyone.