Trondheim
Trondheim is a city on the Trondheim Fjord, in central Norway, which dates back to the 11th century.
Nidaros Cathedral is situated in the heart of the city. It is the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, and the second largest in Scandinavia. Construction started in 1070 and is most important Gothic monument in Norway. The church itself has played an important role in the history of Norway. It began as a simple wooden chapel built to stand over the tomb of Saint Olav, the Viking king who played a big role in the introduction of Christianity and would go on to become the patron saint of Norway. Today, people still make the pilgrimage to the church to pay their respects.
The historic wharves, warehouses and boathouses have stand at the mouth of the Nidelva river. They have held many uses over the centuries from being used as trading grounds by the locals to being used as a defence system for the city. Today the buildings are loving preserved by the locals to respect its merchant history past.
Other famous landmarks
The Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro) was first built on its site in 1681. A sentry and excise house stood at either end of the bridge. The excise house on the west side is still standing and is in use today as a children’s nursery. The Old Town Bridge is also known under the nickname “Lykkens Portal”, which means “Portal of Happiness”. The bridge has been carefully restored to reflect Trondheim and Norway’s old maritime history. Standing on the bridge you will get to gaze upon the city’s old town, taking in the painted houses as a view. A lovely place to walk in the city.
Kristiansten Fortress is one of Trondheim’s most famous landmarks. The fort was built after the great city fire in 1681 and now stands guard over the city. It saved the city from conquest by Sweden in 1718. The fortress was decommissioned in 1816 by king Charles XIV John. The fort offers a spectacular view over Trondheim and its surroundings, the fjord and the mountains. Easily accessible from the town by a short walk, which would tie in nicely with visiting The Old Town Bridge.
Travelling to Trondheim by Ferry
On the 1st September 2008 one of the most historical passenger shipping links in Europe ended as the MS Queen of Scandinavia sailed her final voyage between Newcastle and Bergen. This route was operated by DFDS Seaways.
However, you can still reach Norway by ferry using either Newcastle to Amsterdam or Hull to Rotterdam routes and continue to enjoy safe and relaxing ferry travel to mainland Europe.
The Hull to Rotterdam route features overnight crossings similar to our Hull to Zeebrugge service. Your ticket will include a comfortable cabin and the ships boast a range of dining and entertainment options, including two cinema screens and a casino. You’ll then disembark in Rotterdam which offers excellent road links to Germany, Denmark, Sweden before reaching Norway.
From Amsterdam, you will follow a similar route as if arriving in Rotterdam. You will take a scenic drive through Holland, into Germany, Denmark, Sweden and then onto Norway.
Why not have a look at our Denmark, Holland or Germany Destination Guides for inspiration on places to see and do while making your road trip.