Nidarosdomen, or Nidaros Cathedral, is undoubtedly Trondheim's most important monument and one of the most valuable religious buildings in all of Scandinavia. This impressive Gothic temple was built over the burial site of St. Olaf, the warrior king who introduced Christianity to Norway. Construction of the cathedral began in 1070 and continued for several centuries, making it a fascinating example of the evolution of architectural styles. The cathedral's most distinctive feature is its western facade, decorated with hundreds of sculptures depicting biblical figures, saints and kings. Inside, attention is drawn to the beautiful stained-glass rose window in an intense red color and the monumental organ. The cathedral remains an important pilgrimage site to this day, and its atmosphere is conducive to contemplation and reflection on Norway's turbulent history.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Archbishop's Palace, or Archbishop's Palace, a complex of buildings that for centuries housed the country's most important clergy. Today it houses a fascinating museum, where you can admire the original sculptures from the cathedral, which were replaced with copies during the restoration. Of particular interest is an archaeological exhibit showcasing finds from excavations carried out on the palace grounds, which have uncovered the foundations of earlier buildings and everyday objects from various eras. The palace's basement also houses an armory with an impressive collection of medieval weapons.

Near the cathedral complex is the Riksregaliene, or Royal Regalia Museum, where the crown, scepter and royal apple used during the coronations of Norwegian monarchs are kept. The exhibit is a reminder of the time when Trondheim was the coronation site for Norway's rulers. The collection is relatively small compared to similar collections in other European countries, but it is extremely authentic and rich in symbolism. The regalia are made of gold, decorated with precious stones and represent a high artistic value, while bearing witness to the turbulent history of Norwegian statehood.

Continue your stroll through Trondheim's historic center via Gamle Bybro, or Old City Bridge, also known as the 'Portal of Happiness.' This distinctive red bridge, dating back to 1861, connects the city center to the charming Bakklandet neighborhood. The bridge offers a picturesque view of the colorful wooden granaries of Bryggene and the Nidelva River. The bridge is not only a practical connection between the two parts of the city, but also a popular meeting and photography spot. According to local tradition, crossing the bridge brings good luck, especially if you do so while holding your breath. It's worth stopping in the middle of the bridge for a panoramic view of the city and to take a souvenir photo with the distinctive colorful houses in the background.

Bryggene and Trondheim's one of the city's most recognizable sights - a row of colorful wooden granaries along the Nidelva River. These distinctive buildings, painted in vibrant colors, originally served as warehouses for goods imported by sea. Today, most have been transformed into upscale apartments, restaurants and boutiques, yet retain their historic character. They are best admired while walking along the waterfront or from the perspective of the water during a river cruise. They are particularly picturesque on sunny days, when their facades are reflected in the surface of the water, creating a fairy-tale image. Note the architectural details, such as the distinctive wooden structures and decorative elements, which testify to the rich craftsmanship tradition of the region.

Nidelva Promenade is a charming promenade that stretches along the banks of the Nidelva River, offering some of the most beautiful views of the city. The route takes you through some of the most picturesque corners of Trondheim, including past the already mentioned colorful granaries. Walking along the promenade is a great opportunity to feel the atmosphere of the city and observe the daily life of its inhabitants. Along the route, there are numerous benches and resting places from which you can enjoy the city's panorama. The promenade is especially popular with joggers and cyclists, but also with tourists looking for perfect frames for photos. In autumn, when the leaves of the trees change colors, the route takes on additional charm, offering spectacular views.

Kristiansten Fortress towers over the city, offering panoramic views of Trondheim, the surrounding hills and the coast. Built in the 17th century as protection against attacks from the east, it played a key role in defending the city against the Swedish invasion of 1718. Today the fortress is a popular place for walks and picnics among locals and tourists. Its walls offer one of the best views of the city, especially impressive at sunset. Inside the fortress there is a small museum presenting its history and military significance. Note the preserved cannons lined up along the walls, a reminder of the facility's original function. The fortress is also a venue for various cultural events, concerts and festivals, especially during the summer season.

The Trondheim Art Museum is a modern institution showcasing both classical works by Norwegian artists and contemporary art. The collection includes works from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, with a special focus on artists associated with the Trøndelag region. The museum building itself is an interesting example of contemporary architecture, harmoniously integrated into the historic fabric of the city. Temporary exhibitions regularly present works by renowned international artists, making the museum an important point on the cultural map of Scandinavia. For art lovers, it is a must-see place when visiting Trondheim, offering a fascinating insight into Norwegian artistic sensibilities and aesthetics.

Korsvika is a charming bay located on the Lade peninsula, offering one of the most beautiful beaches in the Trondheim area. It's an ideal place for those who want to combine sightseeing in the city with active recreation in nature. The area around the bay is part of the popular Ladestien hiking trail that runs along the coast, offering spectacular views of the fjord. The beach in Korsvice, though small, is charming and well-maintained, and on summer days attracts both locals and tourists looking to cool off. The surrounding woodland is crisscrossed by a network of walking and biking paths, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The bay offers beautiful views of the fjord and surrounding islands, and in good weather you can even see distant mountains.

Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum is a fascinating open-air museum showcasing the traditional architecture and way of life of the people of the Trøndelag region over the centuries. The museum consists of more than 80 authentic buildings relocated from various parts of the region, including dwelling houses, craft workshops, barns and mills. The buildings are fully equipped with original furniture and everyday objects, allowing visitors to literally travel back in time. The museum is located on the grounds of King Sverre's former castle, the ruins of which remain, offering a magnificent view of the city. Particularly interesting are the reconstructions of typical rural farms from different historical periods, and the urban district presenting life in Trondheim at the turn of the 20th century.

The museum is divided into several thematic sections that depict different aspects of life in the region - from farming and fishing to urban crafts and the life of the aristocracy. There are regular demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as weaving, blacksmithing and cheese making, and workshops for children and adults are held during the summer season. The open-air museum is surrounded by a picturesque landscape, making it an ideal place for a day trip combined with a picnic. Compared to Trondheim's other attractions, Sverresborg offers the most comprehensive insight into the region's traditional culture and history, while also being a family-friendly destination for children.

It's worth noting that unlike Kristiansten Fortress, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city, Sverresborg provides a more intimate perspective, focused on the western part of Trondheim. The museum is somewhat removed from the center (about 4 km), making it less crowded than the city's central attractions, especially during the off-tourist season. Ticket prices are moderate, and special packages are available for families.

For those interested in the history of music, Trondheim also offers the Ringve Music Museum (although not on our basic list), which is Norway's national museum of music and musical instruments. The museum is housed in a historic mansion surrounded by a beautiful botanical garden, and features two permanent exhibitions: one in the main building, focusing on European musical instruments, and another in a former barn, using modern sound and light technology. The museum has enjoyed a steady flow of visitors since it opened in 2010.

If you're planning a longer stay in Trondheim, you should also consider a trip to Munkholmen Island, located in the fjord, just a short boat ride from the city center. This small island has a fascinating history - it served as an execution site in Viking times, later as a monastery, fortress and prison. Today it offers one of the best beaches in the area and a fascinating glimpse into the region's turbulent history. The island is open to the public from mid-May to late September.

All in all, Trondheim is a city that offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and natural beauty. From the majestic Nidaros Cathedral to the colorful waterfront to the charming outdoor museums, there is something for everyone. The city is ideal for both an active weekend and a longer stay, during which you can explore Norwegian culture and traditions in depth. Thanks to the compact size of the center, most of the main attractions can be visited on foot, making Trondheim a tourist-friendly city that is sure to leave an unforgettable impression.