Discover the Best Museums in Trondheim

Explore the many stories hidden away in central Norway at these fascinating museums in and around Trondheim.

Trondheim might be best known as the home of Nidaros Cathedral, but the city also has a strong tradition of celebrating knowledge, creativity, and heritage.

Its museums cover a wide range of interests, from medieval artefacts to modern art, from the natural sciences to pop music.

Whether you're visiting with children, seeking out lesser-known stories, or just hoping to learn something new on a rainy afternoon, Trondheim has plenty to explore. Here’s your guide to the best museums in Trondheim today.

Trondheim's History and Heritage

The story of Trondheim stretches back more than a thousand years. These museums help you peel back the layers.

Archbishop’s Palace Museum

While going inside Nidaros Cathedral is almost like visiting a museum in itself, with its towering Gothic architecture and rich spiritual history, there’s a must-visit next door to give you the full context.

Built over the ruins of the original medieval palace, the Archbishop’s Palace Museum features archaeological finds and exhibits on the power of the Church in medieval Norway.

The Crown Regalia is a separate exhibition housed in the west wing of the Archbishop's Palace complex. While it’s often mentioned alongside the main museum, it requires a separate ticket.

However, a combination ticket is available for all three venues: the cathedral, the palace museum, and the regalia display.

Kristiansten Fortress

Overlooking the city, this 17th-century fortress was built after the great fire of 1681 to protect Trondheim from future attack.

It succeeded in 1718 when it held off Swedish troops during the Great Northern War. During the Second World War, it was occupied by Nazi forces and used for executions of members of the Norwegian resistance.

Today it’s a popular spot for a picnic or a walk, with panoramic views over the city and fjord. Don’t miss the small museum inside the main tower, where you can tread the creaky floors and explore exhibits detailing the fortress's military and wartime history.

Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum 

Set around the ruins of King Sverre’s medieval castle, this open-air museum brings the region’s past to life.

More than 80 historic buildings have been relocated here, from rural farmhouses to Trondheim’s old dentist office. In summer, costumed actors tell stories and demonstrate crafts, making it a great choice for families.

Royal Residence Stiftsgården

Stiftsgården is one of the largest wooden buildings in Scandinavia and an important symbol of Trondheim's role in Norwegian royal history.

Built between 1774 and 1778 for Cecilie Christine Schøller, a wealthy widow and prominent figure in the city’s social life, the palace has served as the official royal residence in Trondheim since the early 19th century.

Today, it is still used by the Royal Family during ceremonial visits and special occasions, such as coronations and royal confirmations in Nidaros Cathedral. Open to the public in summer, guided tours reveal a series of elegant rooms that reflect the style and tastes of different historical periods.

Despite the building’s size and status, many of the rooms are surprisingly modest in decoration, offering a glimpse into how royalty has adapted to Norwegian values of simplicity and practicality.

Music and Culture

Trondheim has a proud musical heritage, from medieval church music to classical composers and black metal. It’s also home to two of Norway’s most engaging music museums.

Rockheim

Located on the waterfront in a striking converted grain warehouse, Rockheim is Norway’s national museum of popular music. Inside, you’ll find a lively and interactive celebration of everything from rock and pop to hip hop, punk and electronica.

The museum is designed to be hands-on, inviting visitors to experiment with instruments, remix songs, and explore recording studios.

Themed rooms guide you through the decades, each one packed with videos, memorabilia, and stories about the bands and artists who shaped the Norwegian music scene.

Ringve Music Museum

If your tastes lean more classical, Ringve is the place for you. Set in a grand manor house surrounded by botanical gardens, the museum offers a journey through centuries of music history.

Its collection of over 2,000 instruments ranges from grand pianos and harpsichords to exotic string and wind instruments from Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Many rooms are arranged in period style, giving a sense of how music was performed and enjoyed in different eras. Guided tours are highly recommended, as the knowledgeable guides often perform short pieces to demonstrate the sound and story behind the instruments.

Art and Design

Trondheim has a thriving creative scene, and its museums reflect that with impressive collections and thought-provoking temporary exhibitions.

Trondheim Art Museum (Trondheim Kunstmuseum)

Just across from the cathedral, this underrated gallery features landscape art from the likes of Harriet Backer and Johan Christian Dahl, alongside works by Edvard Munch. Its rotating exhibitions often showcase contemporary Norwegian artists. Next door, the Ni Muser café is a cosy spot for lunch.

National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design

Currently undergoing changes, this museum has historically held collections of textiles, furniture and metalwork, offering insight into everyday life and high design across Norwegian history. Check local listings for its current exhibitions and temporary locations.

PoMo

Nestled in a beautifully restored 1911 Art Nouveau post office, PoMo opened in February 2025 as Trondheim’s first museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art.

Designed by India Mahdavi in collaboration with Erik Langdalen, its vivid interiors and colourful spiral staircase create a welcoming atmosphere. The Reitan family’s collection champions gender balance with at least sixty per cent of acquisitions by female artists, something which has caught global media attention.

The inaugural exhibition, Postcards from the Future, highlighted this mission with works spanning international names such as Louise Bourgeois, Simone Leigh and Andy Warhol.

Science and Curiosity in Trondheim

Trondheim is a city of knowledge, home to the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), which also operates several museums.

NTNU University Museum – Natural History and Archaeology

This long-standing institution covers everything from Iron Age artefacts to ancient rock carvings. The Kuli Stone, one of the earliest references to the name Norway, is on display here. Children will love the interactive ‘Ark' exhibit exploring animal life and evolution.

Science Centre (Vitensenteret)

Hands-on fun for kids and adults alike. Explore light, space, water, and energy through interactive exhibits and experiments. There’s also a planetarium with daily shows. It’s centrally located and ideal for families or a rainy afternoon.

Lesser-Known Museums in Trondheim

Some of Trondheim’s most rewarding museums are also the most overlooked.

Jewish Museum Trondheim

Set inside the former synagogue, this small but moving museum tells the story of Trondheim’s Jewish community from the 19th century to the Holocaust and beyond. Personal stories and photos help bring the history to life.

Norwegian Justice Museum (Norges Hjemmefrontmuseum)

This unusual museum explores the history of crime, punishment and justice in Norway. Exhibits cover everything from prison life to the Norwegian resistance in World War II. It’s a thought-provoking and often sombre experience.

Maritime Museum (Trondheim Sjøfartsmuseum)

Trondheim’s history as a port city is on display here, with model ships, sailors’ tools and old maps giving insight into its maritime past. It’s small but worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in local seafaring stories.

Practical Travel Tips for Trondheim

Most museums in Trondheim are open throughout the year, although some have reduced hours during the winter months. It's always best to check ahead if you're visiting outside the summer season.

Exhibits almost always include English translations, although guided tours may only be offered in Norwegian unless arranged in advance.

If you're interested in Nidaros Cathedral, consider buying the combination ticket that grants access to the cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace Museum, and the Crown Regalia exhibition.

These are all separate venues with their own entrances and displays, but together they offer a comprehensive experience of Trondheim's religious and royal heritage.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or living here for a while, Trondheim’s museums offer an engaging window into Norwegian history, culture, and creativity. I hope you have a great time!