Monday Escape: Trondheim, Norway
Beautiful Trondheim is situated where the river Nidelva meets Trondheimsfjorden with an excellent harbour and sheltered condition. More sheltered from the more windy conditions on the coast, you can enjoy this city’s maritime climate without any of the negatives.
Since only around 160,000 people call this city home, you can consider it both a sanctuary and a friendly place to be. Students at the city’s University of Science and Technology make up a significant percentage of the population too, giving Trondheim a youthful and intellectual vibe that’s addictive.
Trondheim may glean most of its charm, however, from the fact that it is the oldest of Norway’s major cities, and its old heritage can still be traced in and around the city center. The marvelous Nidaros Cathedral, the largest church of Northern Europe, towers over it. For centuries, Trondheim was the northernmost mercantile city in Europe, which gives it an unmatched “edge-of-the-world” feeling.
For Trondheim’s greatest highlight, stay close to the river Nidelva. The sunsets can be magnificent, especially in summer, and the city is so far north that the first hints of arctic blue sky is seen. The river is nicely experienced in the park Marinen just behind the Cathedral. Also check out the wooden harbor buildings along Kjøpmannsgata, Fjordgata and Sandgata. The best view is from the Old Town Bridge across Nidelva river, leading from close to the Cathedral to Bakklandet.
Despite being one of Norway’s biggest urban centers, the region’s diverse natural environment and wildlife are still omnipresent, even within the city’s walls. Badgers and foxes are not uncommon sights. Moose and deer are common in the hills surrounding the city, and might wander into the city. Since 2002, a wolverine has stayed nearby.
Another treat of this spectacular city are its museums. Trondheim Museum of Arts has Norway’s third largest public art collection, mainly Norwegian art from the last 150 years. Trondheim Science Museum is a scientific hands-on experience center. There’s also the Museum of Natural History and Archaeology, part of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. And don’t miss the variety of smaller history, science and natural history museums too, such as the Trondheim Maritime Museum, the music and musical instrument museum, Ringve National Museum, Ringve Botanical Garden, the Trondheim Tramway Museum, and the Jewish Museum.
Trondheim also has a broad music scene, and is known for its strong communities committed to rock, jazz and classical music. A big part of that music scene involves a thriving nightlife which, in many ways, revolves around the music.
All in all, whether it’s the music, arts, culture, alternative politics, nightlife, or student life– it all combines to make Trondheim one of the most exciting city centers of Northern Europe. There are few places on Earth so in touch which its historical roots, but also on the precipice of modern delights. It’s the perfect expat haven!