Backpacking Trondheim in Summer: Your Practical Guide
What’s It Like Backpacking Trondheim in Summer?
Backpacking Trondheim in summer offers long daylight hours, relatively mild temperatures, and a vibrant atmosphere with outdoor activities. It’s the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and a lively city, perfect for exploring its historical sites and natural surroundings.
What’s the Summer Weather and Climate Like in Trondheim?
Trondheim experiences mild summers with long daylight hours. From June to August, typical daytime temperatures range from an estimated 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F). Nights are cooler, often dropping to 8°C-12°C (46°F-54°F). Be prepared for significant daylight, with up to 19 hours around the summer solstice in late June, and pack layers as weather can be variable, including occasional rain.
What Are Typical Summer Costs for Backpackers in Trondheim?
Norway is generally an expensive country, and Trondheim is no exception.
- Accommodation: A bed in a hostel dormitory typically costs an estimated NOK 400-700 per night (approx. $40-70 USD).
- Food: Eating out can be pricey. A budget meal at a casual restaurant might range from NOK 150-250 (approx. $15-25 USD). Groceries from supermarkets (e.g., Rema 1000, Kiwi) are a more budget-friendly option, with a week’s basic groceries estimated at NOK 500-800 (approx. $50-80 USD). Coffee can cost NOK 40-60.
- Activities: Many attractions have entrance fees, usually NOK 100-150 (approx. $10-15 USD) for museums. Free activities include hiking, exploring neighborhoods, and enjoying parks. Public transport for a single ticket is around NOK 42 (approx. $4 USD).
What Summer-Specific Tips Should Backpackers Know?
Summer is peak season, so book accommodation well in advance. Due to the long daylight hours, consider bringing an eye mask for better sleep. While not overly hot, dress in layers to adapt to varying temperatures and potential rain. Look out for summer festivals, such as the St. Olav Festival (Olavsfest) in late July/early August, or music festivals like Pstereo in August, which can add to crowds but also to the experience.
What Are the Best Summer Activities and Attractions in Trondheim?
- Nidaros Cathedral (Nidarosdomen): Norway’s national sanctuary, stunning gothic architecture.
- Bakklandet: A charming, historic neighborhood with colorful wooden houses, boutique shops, and cafes.
- Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge): Known as the “Portal of Happiness,” offering picturesque views of the Nidelva River and Bakklandet.
- Munkholmen: Take a ferry out to this small island with a rich history, once a monastery and fortress (seasonal operation, typically May-September).
- Bymarka: A vast wilderness area perfect for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, easily accessible from the city.
- Kayaking on the Nidelva River: A unique way to see the city’s waterfront and colorful buildings from a different perspective (rental available).
For finding free amenities like public restrooms, drinking water, and Wi-Fi spots, tools like AllInMap can be very helpful for backpackers on a budget.
