Our writer discovered innovative Scandi cuisine and rich history in this Norwegian city of culture, followed by stunning scenery in the surrounding countryside
As we drive to our hotel in Trondheim, the Trøndelag landscape unfolds like the opening of a Scandinavian drama. Red Monopoly-style houses with candlelit windows are scattered among towering pine trees and rolling hills, while a cosy, twilight sky perfectly complements the scene.
The charming region in central Norway is one of contrasts. Its capital, Trondheim, blends Viking and medieval heritage with a chic foodie scene, cool café culture and a buzzing student population. Beyond the city, The Golden Road embraces a more rural side of life, where artisanal produce is lovingly prepared for local restaurants and hotels. Whether you visit for the food, history or art, you’ll find something for every taste – and, according to Skyscanner, October and November are the cheapest months to fly there.
Where to stay in Trondheim
Walking into the Britannia Hotel feels like stepping into a palace – think white marble, gilded accents, twinkling chandeliers and striking artwork.
It’s fitting that this luxury hotel has hosted royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II on her 1969 state visit (ask concierge Sten about his dad’s encounter on that day).
The Britannia was built in 1870 as the northernmost grand luxury hotel in the world and originally specialised in salmon-fishing tourism. Now, it offers everything from a modern swimming pool with three Nordic saunas to a state-of-the-art gym and an award-winning cocktail bar.
We loved the personal touches in our suite – fresh flowers and a delicate white-chocolate swan cupcake, handcrafted by head pastry chef Catherine, were waiting for us on arrival.
The toiletries were equally indulgent, and we savoured every drop of the Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris body cream. From heated bathroom floors that warm tired feet to hair straighteners that tame windswept frizz, no detail was overlooked. It’s easy to see why the Britannia holds its five stars.
What to do in Trondheim
Exploring the city of Trondheim can easily be done by foot. We enjoyed a scenic stroll along the banks of the River Nidelva, home to the historic and colourful wharves, before taking a tour of the world’s most northern medieval cathedral, Nidaros.
Just across the road from the Britannia is the PoMo art museum, where the gallery’s striking orange staircase is just as Instagram-worthy as the masterpieces on the walls. Next door, the Nye Hjorten Teater lives by the motto ‘every day should feel like a Saturday’. Opening in January, the theatre may be new, but it channels old-Hollywood glamour, with velvet interiors and freshly-popped popcorn.
For those seeking culture beyond the city, head for The Golden Road, a peninsula two hours north of Trondheim by car. Known locally as Den Gyldne Omvei, it brings together more than 20 small-scale destinations to form a culinary and cultural journey. We sampled award-winning cheeses and ice cream at Gangstad Gårdsysteri, one of Norway’s leading dairy farms, before wandering the orchards of Inderøy Mosteri and enjoying a tasting of fresh juices.
That evening, we headed to Øyna Cultural Landscape Hotel – an architectural gem high above the Trøndelag countryside, where the views are simply incredible. The design is thoughtfully considered, and each room gets a balcony with views of the Trondheim Fjord.
Where to eat in Trondheim
Food experts chose Trondheim and Trøndelag as the European Region of Gastronomy 2022, and the focus on sustainability and local produce is clear.
The Britannia’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Speilsalen, was a real treat for all the senses. Designed around the finest handpicked Norwegian produce, everything was fresh, vibrant and artistically presented. Each course was sensational, but a particular highlight was the tomatoes with alp cheese and gooseberry broth. The dish featured special ‘Speilsalen’ tomatoes grown specifically for the restaurant by Hanasand Gard, a local farm.
Over at the Britannia bar, executive bar manager Øyvind (awarded Best Bartender in Norway at the 2025 Bartenders’ Choice Awards) has created a series of signature cocktails inspired by art. We loved the Norum cocktail – a refreshing blend of aquavit (a Scandinavian spirit), vodka, apples, pine needles and spruce tips, all sourced locally.
Next to the Nye Hjorten Teater you’ll find Olgas, where you can tuck into the traditional Norwegian dish of Sodd, a hearty meatball broth served with carrots and potatoes – but, locals warn, never call it a soup! It’s way more special than that. Though the warm, buttery focaccia here shouldn’t be missed, traditionally, Sodd would be eaten with Skjenning – a type of sweet, crispy flatbread which is a regional speciality from Inderøy.
How much does it cost to visit Trondheim?
Return fares from London to Trondheim with Finnair start at £261 in Economy Class. Flights are available from March to October from London Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh airports.
For more information about the Britannia, visit the website. Rooms at Øyna Cultural Landscape Hotel start at around £155 per room, per night.