Multicoloured wooden mansions stand proudly over the water in Trondheim City Centre, an old Norwegian city that's rich in culture and heritage. For many years, Trondheim was the northernmost merchant city in Europe. It has retained this edge of the world atmosphere, the distinctive mansions along the harbour just one aspect of its 1,000-year history. While the city stretches over many islands, Trondheim City Centre consists of the area inside the meandering Nidelva River. It includes many of Trondheim's famous museums and much of its oldest heritage.
Standing proudly after many centuries is Nidarosdomen, an impressive gothic cathedral that symbolises Trondheim. It's particularly impressive during the long summer nights when the sultry sunsets create mystical pink reflections against its facade. Nearby is the Archbishop's Palace, another iconic building in the south of Trondheim City Centre. While the wooden mansions can be seen all over the city centre, the most photogenic are those along the water in areas like Sandgata and Fjordgata. Ilsvikora and Bakklandet also have impressive architecture while the grandest mansion is Stiftsgarden, formerly a king's residence. Other popular attractions include the Trondheim Science Museum and DORA 1, a German submarine base and bunker from WWII.
There are some beautiful walking routes around Trondheim City Centre. These are ideal in summer, especially those that run along Nidelva River and the coloured mansions. Cross the Old Town Bridge and walk on the opposite side of the water for the best photos. Trondheim has an excellent bus network that connects all the areas of the city centre. During the cold winters, these heated buses are the most comfortable means of getting around. Trondheim Airport Vaernes is a 30-minute bus journey or 40-minute train ride outside the city. Long-distance buses and trains arrive at a station close to Trondheim City Centre while boats from Russia and elsewhere in Norway dock alongside the iconic wooden houses.
Trondheim's history dates to the 10th century and the time of the Vikings. The city became an integral cog in Transatlantic trade, particularly for Scandinavian boats that fished the abundant waters close to what is now Canada and the United States.