Don’t know where to go for the pre-Christmas weekend?
Trondheim, Norway’s third largest city, is often overlooked by tourists who prefer Oslo or chasing the aurora borealis.
During Advent, the city is decorated with thousands of lights, which give it a truly fairy-tale atmosphere.
You will love the Christmas markets in Trondheim.
We will tell you everything important in the following lines.
Trondheim Advent Markets
The Trondheim Christmas markets are among the biggest in Scandinavia. It is hard to believe that when they were held for the first time in 2003, there were only five stands. Today, the fair offers more than 70 stands and dozens of accompanying events. Glittering lights, deeply rooted in Nordic traditions, illuminate the whole city with a cozy atmosphere full of joyful Christmas spirit.
Christmas markets on Torvet
When and where will it all take place?
4.12.2024 – 21.12.2024
Discover similar tips
Trondheim Advent Fair Program
Every December, a traditional market with quality crafts, Christmas treats, and decorations is held in the city center. Here, you can find everything from Christmas decorations, wreaths, jewelry, sheepskins, sweets, freshly brewed coffee, and other tasty Christmas gifts.
The square is full of traditional wooden huts and typical “lavvu” tents used by the Sámi people in Lapland. In them, you can enjoy refreshments and listen to the sounds of typical Norwegian music or simply warm yourself by the fire while sitting on a reindeer skin.
Various activities will also be held daily, especially theater performances and concerts for all age categories. Visitors can also look forward to a holiday workshop, and children will enjoy many diverse attractions.
Visitors can get an overview of the Christmas markets in Trondheim from the 45-foot Ferris wheel. Another attraction is a ride on a horse-drawn sleigh.
The following video will bring you even closer to the Trondheim Advent markets.
Interesting places in Trondheim
Trondheim, now Norway’s third-largest city, is located in Trondheimsfjörður, where Norway begins to thin out and lean more steeply towards the Arctic north. The city was founded in 997 by the Viking king Olaf I and was the capital of Norway until 1217.
Although Trondheim, like many other Norwegian cities, has been destroyed by fire many times during its history, it still retains its charm and history. During your visit to the Advent markets in Trondheim, make time for a walk around its center.
Trondheim Cathedral
Undoubtedly, the local cathedral is among the interesting monuments. It is a five-minute walk from Torvet Square, home to the Trondheim Christmas Market. Nidaros Domkirke is the largest medieval building in Scandinavia, the northernmost Gothic building in Europe, and the most important church in Norway.
The building was built in the 12th century on the grave of St. Olaf, the Viking king who overthrew the Nordic pagan religion and introduced Christianity. It was destroyed several times by fire. Today, the cathedral is a fascinating combination of several architectural styles.
The oldest parts are in the Anglo-Norman Romanesque style. Many Gothic elements are present in the octagonal chancel, chancel, and nave, which share some features with Westminster Abbey in London. The Gothic facade, similar to the facades of the English cathedrals of Wells and Salisbury, has a large central rose window and is topped by two towers.
Archbishop’s Palace
The cathedral courtyard leads to the Archbishop’s Palace, Norwegian Erkebispegården, the oldest secular building in Scandinavia. The palace dates from the second half of the 12th century and was the seat of the archbishop until the Reformation in 1537.
Only two of the U-shaped palace’s stone and brick wings are original, while the other two were rebuilt after a fire. Today, the palace houses a museum.
Gamle Bybro and Bakklandet
An old bridge from 1681 over the river Nidelva connects the city with the Bakklandet quarter, which is made up of colorful wooden houses along the river. Once known as a working-class district where artisans, small traders, and laborers lived, it has become one of the city’s most sought-after districts today.
Discover the enchanting traditions of Christmas in Norway and meet Julenissen, the Norwegian elf. God Jul! Explore how Christmas is celebrated in Norway.
Conclusion
Spending the Christmas season in Norway is a truly spectacular experience. Whether you visit one of the Christmas markets, explore other festive events, or enjoy Norway’s many wonderful activities, you’re sure to have a magical holiday season.
Christmas in Norway is indeed something special. The cold climate and crisp, fresh air create the perfect atmosphere to lift your spirits and immerse you in a calm, festive mood.