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Solo Travel in Trondheim
Types of Girl about the Globe – Active GatG, Arty & Museum GatG, Nature GatG
If you are planning a trip to Trondheim in Norway, I've put together a quick guide with tips and advice from our solo female community, to help you solo travel Trondheim.
Stay for – 2 nights.
Safety Tips – Trondheim is a really safe city. Some say that the people from here are the friendliest in Norway. They are definitely chatty so it’s easier to meet locals here.
Did you know? The Viking kings of Norway were crowned here, at the Oretinget.
Local's Tip – “Explore the area of Svartlamoen which we call ‘Little Christiania.’ The street art and murals are definitely worth seeing.”
Solo’s Tip – “Cross Elgeseter Bridge for a great photo opportunity on the other side with the park and cathedral in the background.”
About Trondheim
Trondheim is the third largest city in Norway. This colourful, laid-back city may be slightly off the beaten track but is definitely worth a visit. Situated in Trøndelag, the historic centre of Norway, this area is deeply rooted in the country’s traditions and is the perfect base for exploring nature reserves and a wild coastline.
It may not have the Northern Lights or be a gateway to the fjords but what Trondheim does have is an amazing cathedral and plenty of museums to wile away the Norwegian hours.
Once Norway’s capital up until the year 1217, Trondheim has a long Viking history and is now a buzzy student city with a cool vibe.
Known as a food city, you’ll find many cafes, bars and funky streets where locals wile away the hours taking advantage of the discounted local alcohol (there are perks to it being a student city).
The biggest attraction here is the Nidaros Cathedral, a magnificent cathedral that has been attracting pilgrims for the last 1000 years. Visit the island of Munkholmen, Norway’s own Alcatraz, explore the cannons of Kristiansten Fortress, or learn about its Viking roots in the museums.
It is also known for its festivals whether food and beer or jazz and the blues, and holds Norway’s largest church and cultural festival.
Trondheim is a good city to wander around with many of its streets pedestrianised. Stroll along the colourful old port admiring wooden warehouses or hire a bike and cycle around the idyllic old town, taking advantage of the many cycle paths.
Trondheim is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, nice architecture, and beautiful nature hikes, but you will need to layer up as the weather can change quickly here.
Sightseeing
Nidaros Cathedral
This cathedral is said to be the most magnificent in the whole of Scandinavia. Known as the ‘jewel in the city’s crown,’ it has been beautifully restored with beautiful gothic and French architecture. Over history kings have been christened and buried here, in the world’s most northern medieval cathedral and Norway’s national sanctuary. Tours are in English. * Find out more. (TIME – 2/3 hours).
Arch Bishops Palace
This palace plays a large role in Norway’s history as the former residence of some of the country’s most powerful men. You can find out more about its history through the archaeological discoveries found here, at this beautifully preserved palace that dates back to the 12th century. You can buy a combined ticket to get access into the palace, the Nidaros Cathedral and to see the crown jewels. There are tours in English. Find out more. (TIME – 2 hours).
Old Town Bridge
This 82 metre long bridge sits over the river Nidelven and connects Bakklandet to the city centre. There is a beautiful view across both sides of the river making it one of the most touristy spots to stop and take a postcard-perfect picture. If the weather is just right you may even be able to see the reflections of the wooden buildings on the water. Spend some time in the neighbourhood of Bakklandet afterwards browsing boutiques and reflecting in one of the cafes. It’s also pretty at night. (TIME – 1/2 hours).
Munkholmen
This little prison island sits in the bay of Trondheim. Not only was it once a prison but it was also a Benedictine monastery, a fortress and a place for public executions. Today it is one of the city’s tourist attractions and has a cafe and a little beach near the fort. It is definitely worth a trip even just for the boat ride across the harbour. Take the 90 minute round-trip or the longer tour which takes you through canals. * Check the website for times and fares (TIME – 3-5 hours).
Escape the crowds
At Lianvatnet. Go up the hill to find this little lake which has a great view of the city in the distance. Bring some snacks and relax for the afternoon. Take the tram to Lian and stop off here.
Lose yourself
In a lovely part of town called Bakklandet where you can get lost amongst the colourful wooden houses and stop for a drink in a cafe terrace with views across the river.
Get a great view
At Nidaros Cathedral, the world’s most northern gothic cathedral. If you can handle narrow stairways climb the 172 steps to be rewarded with an amazing view of the city from the top.
Interact with the locals
At Ladeparken where you can walk or run through nature and greenery. This spot is popular with locals so there will always be plenty of people to interact with.
Places to enjoy the sun
At Ringve Bay, a popular spot with the locals who sunbathe on the grass.
Markets
Visit on the first Saturday of the month for the farmer’s market on Torget, which is at the main square. Here you can buy all kinds of food goodies such as waffles and cheese.
Every Sunday during the summer months there’s an outdoor flea market called Bryggerekka Bruktmarked which you’ll find at Kjøpmannsgata between 10am to 4pm.
On Fridays in the harbour area at Ravnkloa you’ll find the fish harbour from 10am where you can get a fresh catch to cook for your supper.
Where To Stay in Trondheim
Good areas to stay in – If you prefer to stay in the city centre expect to pay more for your accommodation than staying in the outskirts. Areas such as Lilleby are on the train line into the central station and a better option if you are on a budget. You’ll also find campgrounds just outside the city centre.
Flakk Camping
This campground is near to the Trondheim Fjord with access to the beach. You don’t have to bring your own tent as they have small cabins for rent. There is food onsite too. The grounds are only open between May and the beginning of September.
- Prices start from £42 / €47 per night
- Check prices, dates and availability: Flakk Camping
Trondheim Vandrerhjem
Trondheim Hostel is one of the few hostels here. As well as a 4-bed female dorm you can also stay in a private room with a shared kitchen and bathroom. There is a TV area which is a good place to meet other to sightsee with.
- Prices start from £32 / €36 for a bed in a 4-bed dorm
- Check prices, dates and availability: Trondheim Vandrerhjem
City Living Schøller Hotel
This hotel is across from Stiftsgarden royal residence and offers private rooms. There is free tea and coffee and you also get a fridge in your room. It’s a short walking distance from Torvet Square where you can shop or party to your heart’s content.
- Prices from £67 / €75 for a single room
- Check prices, dates and availability: City Living Schøller Hotel
Activities in Trondheim
Active GatG
Go for a walk across the Elgeseter Bridge and enjoy the other side of the river while admiring the city views from a different angle. It’s also a good spot to go for a run.
The city has plenty of cycle lanes and alleyways to explore by bike. Rent an electronic card to use the bikes around the city or just hire your own.
Adventure GatG
If you prefer to see Trondheim from the water, rent a dry-suit and kayak along the Nidelven river.
Arty & Museum GatG
If you like music, you’ll like Rockheim, the city’s museum for pop and rock culture. This interactive museum is divided into different rooms with music through the decades. It’s worth visiting for a couple of hours.
There’s also the Ringve Museum with a well displayed collection of musical instruments. The museum offers musical guided tours and has a beautiful botanic garden.
Visit Stadsbygd to learn about the old boatbuilding traditions at the Kystens Arv museum and hear the stories of the local fisherman.
Local’s Tip – “Most sights and museums are closed on Mondays and may only be open for a short time during the day if you visit outside of high season.”
Budget GatG – Look for the free concerts in Sirius Shopping in Strindheim. Cultural GatG
Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum is an open air museum that brings to life stories of the rich and the poor from Trondheim. The museum has more than 80 buildings and displays the cultural heritage of the city. They also hold exhibitions here. Note that it isn’t open on Mondays.
History GatG
Just walking through the old town will reveal some of the city’s history. Don’t forget to see the bicycle lift, the only one in the world.
Learn about 300 years of mining history on a tour of the mining town of Roras with UNESCO World Heritage wooden architecture.
Nature GatG
Explore outside of the city centre and take a walk (or cycle) to Lade while stopping on the way to take photos of the Norwegian countryside.
Shopping GatG
Trondheim is ideal for those in search of some retail therapy. You’ll find shopping centres in the city centre and also downtown. Munkegata is Trondheim’s “Champs-Elysees.” If you prefer to stay away from chain fashion stores there are a few second-hand shops scattered around the city.
Volunteering GatG
Volunteer at Trondheim Folkekjokken, a community organisation where all food is free and made by volunteers. Help prepare vegan dishes.
Wellness GatG
Trondheim Hamman is Norway’s original Hamman with a steam bath, scrub and massage. It isn’t in the city centre so you’ll need to take a bus to it.
Have a tourist moment
By taking a photo of one of the iconic landmarks in the city, the Old Town Bridge which crosses Nidelva river.
Don’t have much time? – Walk around the Bakklandet area and inside the Nidaros Cathedral – definitely not be missed.
Where to wear your heels
At the Skybar of the Clarion Hotel & Congress. Go up to the 25th floor to spend an evening on the roof terrace with amazing views of the city and fjord.
Where to Meet Others – Being a place to party means that there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people here.
Local Tours
If you prefer to take a tour from here to explore other areas in Norway, the Norway in a Nutshell tour runs from here and includes a coastal cruise along the west coast and the scenic Bergen Railway. The tour is a minimum of 4 days.
Take a guided tour around Trondheim, either on a local customised private tour, or join the alternative walking tour to see the city’s historical highlights and cultural gems.
* Check dates, prices and availability for walking tours
In The Evenings
Walk along Solsiden to admire the lights reflecting in the water. Here you’ll find restaurants, bars and clubs with a nice atmosphere to stroll along.
Go kayaking and enjoy the beauty of Trondheim at night.
Party GatG
Trondheim is a good city if you’re into live music.
Blæst – This venue in Solsiden is a cool place for local and international gigs and attracts people of all ages. Go upstairs to the music hall and enjoy some live music. Find at Tmv-Kaia 17.
Bar Circus – It can get crowded but that’s what makes it good to meet others and maybe join their bar crawl. The beer prices are a bit lower here too. Find at Olav Tryggvasons gate 27.
Where to Eat & Drink
Known as a food city, Trondheim has many cafes, excellent restaurants and local breweries so you’ll never be short of somewhere to drink and dine. Solsiden is a good place to get a coffee and a bite to eat.
Restaurants
£ – Istanbul Doner Chef. You won’t find any Norwegian food here but you will find great Turkish food including a vegan falafel wrap. Find at Olav Tryggvasons gate 5.
Restaurants for typical cuisine
££ – Søstrene Karlsen. Serving Scandinavian and Norwegian food you’ll find a choice of meat and fish dishes as well as some vegetarian options. Try the burger if you can. Find at Tmv-Kaia 25.
££ – Troll Restaurant. This restaurant serves really good seafood dishes as well as Norwegian, Scandinavian and other European cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Try the local cheeses too. Find at Fosenkaia 4A.
££ – Baklandet Skyddsstation. This restaurant is so cosy that you feel you’re in a local’s living room. Being so welcoming means that it’s a favourite with the locals. It offers delicious homemade food and a choice of Norwegian, Scandinavian and Danish options. Try the spicy corn soup to warm you up. Find at Ovre Bakklandet 33.
Vegetarian Restaurants
Hagen – Don’t get this place confused with the ice-cream brand. Instead you’ll find vegan food, wraps and sandwiches at a reasonable price for Norway. You don’t have to eat in either as they offer take-out if you are in a hurry. Find at Nedre Bakklandet 75.
Kalas & Canasta – You’ll find this intimate restaurant in the old part of Trondheim with vegetarian friendly dishes and gluten-free options. If you don’t find anything you like, the staff may even prepare something that’s not on the menu for you. Find at Nedre Bakklandet 5.
Treat yourself at
££££ – To Rom og Kjøkken. This is fine dining at its best and a dream for cuisine lovers but it does come with a hefty price tag. It’s located in the centre of the city and as well as local and Mediterranean dishes, you’ll also find vegetarian friendly dishes. Opt for the three courses special and enjoy. Find at Carl Johans gate 5.
Enjoy a coffee and a cake
At Sponhuset on Ringve Bay which serves amazing waffles and coffee. We think they’re the best waffles in Norway. Find at Ringvebukta.
Kafe Soil – Found in the Old Town, this cosy cafe offers organic food and cakes. If you’re a vegan, you can enjoy a chia seed pudding with your coffee. Find at Nedre Bakklandet 20D.
Dromedar – This is one of our favourite coffee spots. The deserts may be a little on the expensive side but with friendly happy staff who speak English we don’t mind paying a little bit more (and there is Wifi too). Find at Nordregate 2.
Street Food
The cheapest food you’ll find is at one of the supermarkets, otherwise, look for one of the fast food takeaways for a cheaper bite to eat.
Where to Drink in Tronheim
Antikvariatet – At first glance you may not think that this is anything special, but towards the back you’ll find walls covered with books and a river view. Enjoy one of the craft beers on the terrace in a cosy environment. There may even be a live music gig on during your visit. Find at Nedre Bakklandet 4.
Kieglekroa Pub – It is one of the oldest pubs in the city and is brimming with history. Friendly, cosy and a favourite for whisky lovers. There may even be an event on while you’re there. Find at Kongens gate 30.
Local’s Tip – “Den Gode Nabo (The Good Neighbour Pub) is the perfect spot in the summer. Enjoy a beer on the floating patio on river Nidelven. Find at Oevre Bakklandet 66.”
Getting Around
If you don’t have a car Trondheim is a good city to visit as you can get around on foot or by renting a bike.
A bus system covers most of the city. Check the timetable for buses. You can buy your bus ticket from the driver but buying a ticket from the kiosk or bus station before getting on the bus is cheaper.
Taking the tram is not only a good way to get around but also a tourist attraction in the city. You can take the train from the city centre to Lian to get views of the lake.
There is an express ferry between Trondheim and Kristiansund with stops on the islands of Frøya and Hitra.
From Trondheim Airport
There are taxis outside the arrival hall but if you don’t mind taking public transport, there’s a train from Trondheim Airport that takes 35 minutes to the city centre. Find the prices and schedule here
There is also an airport bus service. Check Nettbuss for times and prices.
Travelling Onwards
It’s easy to fly around Norway. Take an internal flight to either Oslo or Bergen from Trondheim. Two train railways run through Trondheim, the Dovre train line from Oslo takes you past beautiful scenery to either Stjørdal, Oppdal or Oslo. The Røros Railway runs between Trondheim, Hamar and Røros, and takes you past wild nature. See if you can pre-book to get the best fare. Check here for the Dovre Line and Roros line.
* Use Rome2Rio to plan your ongoing trip.
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