The Trondheimsfjord
A historic voyage along the seaway where earls and powerful chieftains once set out to unite Norway as a nation under one king
Trondheimsfjord is less steep and dramatic than some of the most famous Norwegian fjords, but that variety is part of why we love it. Winding inland 130 km inland from the Norwegian Sea, this is a landscape of wide waters, rounded hills and wooded islands.
It’s also one of our most fertile fjords, with rich marine life, sheltered farmland and long, forested slopes. Look out for the lighthouses that dot the coastline – Kjeungskjær and Agdenes among them – guiding ships much like they have for centuries.
Trondheim: city of the fjord
Trondheimsfjord (or Trondheimsfjorden to us Norwegians) stretches from the Fosen peninsula and the rugged Norwegian Sea to Beitstadfjorden, its innermost arm.
At its heart lies Trondheim, the city that gave the fjord its name. Founded in 997 by Viking King Olav Tryggvason, it quickly became the capital of Norway and a centre of trade, culture and religion.
Even after Oslo took over as capital, Trondheim remained Norway’s spiritual capital. The towering Nidaros Cathedral, built on the grave of Saint Olaf (Olav II), became the most important pilgrimage site in northern Europe during the Middle Ages. It’s still our national sanctuary.
Today, the city blends old and new: medieval streets and timber houses in Bakklandet, the Art Nouveau post office building that now houses PoMo art museum, and the bustling student life behind Norway’s tech-driven future. It’s a place that never lost its character, or its connection to the fjord.
Trondheimsfjord through the ages
People have lived along Trondheimsfjord for thousands of years. Artefacts from the Stone and Bronze Ages have been found in the area, along with Viking burial mounds and settlements.
In the 19th century, steamships and railroads boosted local trade. Fishing and timber industries grew, with the fjord playing a vital role in moving goods along the coast.
Today, the fjord is a peaceful retreat. Travellers head to the hills for hiking and skiing, to the water for fishing and boating and to Nidaros Cathedral and islands like Munkholmen for a dose of history and calm.
The best things to do around Trondheimsfjord
1. Visit Trondheim
Trondheim is undoubtedly one of the fjords highlights. Visit Nidaros Cathedral, walk along the River Nidelva, explore the colourful houses of Bakklandet, and stop in at the city’s cosy cafés and bakeries.
We call at Trondheim for 3 hours on our Coastal Express voyage. Our Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral and Trondheim city walk excursions are great introductions to the city.
2. Take a fjord cruise
Sailing the fjord is the best way to take in its scale. Look out for seals, seabirds and traditional boathouses along the shore.
If you're sailing with us on the Coastal Express, our Kayaking on the River Nid excursion gets you even closer to the water. You’ll get a chance to see some of city's the most famous landmarks, like Nidaros Cathedral, Kristiansten Fortress on a nearby hilltop, and the popular Marinen Park.
3. Hike in Bymarka
Just outside Trondheim, Bymarka Nature Reserve is an easy escape into nature. It’s crisscrossed with year-round trails that are perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing or just wandering between lakes and pine trees. Many trails start at Granåsen or Lian.
4. Visit Munkholmen Island
This tiny island in the middle of the fjord has worn many hats over the centuries: monastery, prison, fortress and World War II gun station.
Today Munkholmen is a relaxed spot for a swim or picnic. In summer, boats run regularly from Trondheim’s harbour.
5. Discover Ringve Museum
Set in a 19th-century manor overlooking the fjord, the Ringve Museum is Norway’s national museum of music. It showcases instruments and traditions from around the world, along with a lovely botanical garden and scenic views of the water.
When is the best time to visit Trondheimsfjord?
The weather in Trondheimsfjord is typical of coastal Norway. As with other Norwegian fjords, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do.
Mild temperatures (12-18°C) and long daylight hours make summer the best season for hiking, sightseeing and fjord cruises. It’s also when the city is most lively.
Spring is a peaceful time to visit. Flowers bloom, the air is fresh, and trails begin to open up. Just note that weather can still be changeable.
Fewer visitors, golden foliage and crisp air characterise autumn in Trondheimsfjord. Many outdoor activities are still available, though some tours may wind down mid-season.
Winter is cold but beautiful. Snowfall transforms the forests and hills, and cross-country skiing in Bymarka is a favourite local pastime. Trondheim’s Christmas market and cosy cafés make it a lovely winter stop.
Visit Trondheimsfjord with Hurtigruten
You can visit Trondheimsfjord on The Coastal Express, which sails between Florø and Rørvik, stopping in Trondheim and passing through the fjord’s western mouth behind the Fosen peninsula.
Discover the heart of Norway's fjords
Our ships have sailed these fjords for more than 130 years. Step aboard and see Norway the way it's meant to be seen - from the water.
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Nordfjord
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