Shore Excursions for Norway - 2023 Coastal Cruises

Physical Level: For most guests, requires some physical effort
Port: Trondheim
Season: All Year

Norway’s first capital, Trondheim, was founded in 997 by Viking King Olav Tryggvason, who brought Christianity to Norway and gave Trondheim its original name: Nidaros. Our guided stroll through Trondheim starts at the harbor, which was largely built and developed during the second half of the 19th century. We then proceed to Stiftsgården, the royal residence in Trondheim, and on to the market square to see the statue of Olav Tryggvason. Then we walk to Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s national shrine and a Gothic masterpiece. We explore the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral before crossing the old city bridge over the River Nid*. The ornate gateway on the red-painted bridge is known to locals as ‘the portal of happiness’. Then we stroll through the area of Bakklandet, which has preserved its charming 19th century wooden architecture. Originally an industrial part of the city, Bakklandet’s old factories have been renovated into attractive housing and are integrated with boutiques, cafés, and gourmet restaurants. Here you also find the world’s only bicycle lift, which travels to the top of the steep hill of Brubakken. Join us and be a part of an enjoyable tour through one of Norway’s most delightful cities.

*Guided tours ourside the cathedral and in the museum Sundays and public holidays due to church services.

Physical Level: Medium, participants should be in good general physical condition
Port: Trondheim
Season: Apr-Sept

Trondheim has put a lot of effort into becoming the most bicycle-friendly community in Norway. The city has installed many red-painted bicycle lanes through its downtown area to heighten the visibility and growing presence of cyclists on its streets. This guided bicycle excursion takes you from the ship, along the fjord, and across the city’s new bike bridge, with great views of Trondheim’s medieval fortress island, Munkholmen. Then we cycle through the Ila district and along the River Nid, which provides views of majestic Nidaros Cathedral and the city’s colorful old warehouses. We also cycle into the historic Bakklandet district, where we try out the world’s first and only bicycle lift, called ‘Trampe’, which pulls us up the steep hill of Brubakken. Then we stop for coffee and pastry at one of the area’s many cozy cafés. Heading back to the ship, we pass through the historic and recently modernized Solsiden (Sunnyside) district, the site of a former shipyard and now a public area popular with the locals.

Physical Level: Difficult, participants must be in good general physical condition
Port: Trondheim
Season: All Year

It's easy to imagine yourself paddling through the past as we glide along the River Nid by colorful old warehouses, medieval Nidaros Cathedral, and the formidable Kristiansten Fortress. We also explore the river's smaller channels near the harbor and see sights that you can only discover by kayak. The River Nid is also a good place to fish for trout – and even salmon. Every year salmon weighing more than 44 lbs are caught in the river's lower reaches. This expedition is not about action-packed adventure, it's about sightseeing, relaxation, and contemplation.

Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Trondheim
Season: Sep-Mar

Norway's original capital, Trondheim was founded as early as 997 by the Viking King Olav Tryggvason, who gave the town the name Nidaros. Trondheim is a large city by Norwegian standards, though it has still managed to preserve many of the charms and intimacy of a small town. It is also a city full of contrasts, with monastery ruins, impressive wooden buildings, colourful wharves, and a beautiful red-painted city bridge dating back to 1861.Trondheim is home to a world famous research and educational community, modern sports facilities and a lively night life. You will hear about the city's many features as the bus takes us through Trondheim's streets and boroughs, including a short stop at Utsikten (The View) to admire the city from a high elevation. We continue to the impressive Nidaros Cathedral. Built over the burial place of St. Olav, the patron saint of Norway, the construction of this enormous building with its countless details and decorations, began as early as 1070. After a guided tour around the cathedral, you will understand why many describe it as the most beautiful religious building in Norway.

Physical Level: For all guests
Port: Trondheim
Season: Apr-Aug

Few large cities have managed to preserve their intimacy as effectively as Norway's third largest city, Trondheim. An ancient city, it was founded by the Viking King Olav Tryggvason as early as 997. Your tour starts from the pier and takes you to Norway's national shrine, Nidaros Cathedral - Norway's only Gothic style cathedral, built over the burial place of St. Olav, Norway's patron saint. Here you can marvel at the cathedral's incredible architectural details and exquisite works of art. After a guided tour of the cathedral, you have some free time to explore. From Nidaros Cathedral, the bus takes you to the Ringve Museum of Musical History, where your enthusiastic tour guide will bring the history of Norway's music to life. This beautiful manor house was the childhood home of Norwegian naval hero Petter Wessel Tordenskiold, and is surrounded by a wonderful botanical garden. The Museum is conveniently located just outside Trondheim, and so represents an idyllic spot to enjoy the beautiful views of both the city and the fjord.