Norway’s third-largest city is one of the most picturesque and vibrant destinations in the country.
As with many of the country’s northern regions, it is especially light here in the summer – giving you plenty of time to explore when you rent a car in Trondheim.
Take in the Nidelva river
The city’s Bakklandet district is instantly recognizable for its colorful wooden warehouses.
You can park up and wander around the city’s most historic neighbourhood, and even explore it from the water.
Kayaking is a popular activity in the city and the ideal way to take advantage of the waterways, while enabling you to get a different view. Many tours start at Tempe idrettsanlegg. You can hire everything you need – including the kayak, paddles and safety equipment, and tours usually last around two hours.
This is a special experience during the day, but it is even possible to do it at night for an even more unique trip.
Admire Nidaros cathedral
One of the most famous and popular sights in Trondheim, you won’t want to leave without seeing this spectacular religious structure. It’s arguably the most important Gothic monument in the country.
You’ll find it right in the center of the city, but you’ll see it before you even arrive. It dominates the skyline with its 320-foot spires, and can be seen from across Trondheim.
Take your time to admire the exterior, the oldest parts of which date as far back as the 11th century. The cathedral is built on the burial site of Saint Olav and stands proudly as the most northerly medieval cathedral in the world.
When you are ready to head inside, you can take a guided tour to learn more about its history.
Explore the city’s museums
There are many museums in this city – offering a fascinating insight into the culture of Trondheim and Norway.
Two of the best are the National Museum of Decorative Arts and the Trondheim Museum of Art. Once you have been to the cathedral, make sure you visit the Archbishop’s Palace Museum too – here you can learn more about its past and see original sculptures.
If you are into music, then you also won’t want to miss Rockheim, a national center of popular music which boasts interactive exhibitions and takes you through pop and rock music from the 1950s to the present day. The Trøndelag Folk Museum, an outdoor attraction where you can see eighty historic buildings, is also a local highlight.
Bymarka
Take a short 20-30 minute drive to the west of the city and you will reach this forest, which is an ideal spot for hiking.
Park up your rental car and follow one of the marked trails – of which there are more than 124 miles in total. There are also 10 lakes to walk around and various viewpoints to stop off at.
Adventurers may also like to head up to Gråkallen, a spectacular mountain that reaches a height of 1,800 feet. You’ll be able to take in the magnificent views, explore on a mountain bike, and when it snows there are also more than 155 miles of ski trails here.
If you’re visiting in the warmer seasons, don’t forget your swimwear if you fancy taking a dip – as Lianvatnet lake is a great spot to relax.
With car rental in Trondheim you can explore all that this picturesque city offers, and discover even more of Norway beyond.