The city
Trondheim is the third largest municipality in Norway with a total of 214.000 inhabitants. Trondheim's metropolitan area, however, counts a population of 260 000. It is also one of the educational, as well as technical and medical research, centers of Norway. The NTNU and SINTEF are located at different locations in the city. Besides NTNU there are several other educational institutions and the total amount of students in Trondheim is about 38.000 which makes for a great student-environment. The student environment allows for great nightlife, sporting activities and a rich cultural life including concerts, revues and presentations of different kinds.
Trondheim, as a city, was founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997, a statue of whom can be found in the city center on Kongens gate (literally "King's Street").Trondheim has a rich history dating back to the viking age which you can experience through public buildings or museums. Trondheim, or at that time Nidaros, was the capital of Norway until 1217 when this title was given to Bjørgvin (today Bergen) and later to Oslo (which in between was called Kristiania).
Climate
Since Trondheim is located in the Trondheimsfjorden, which is Norway's third longest fjord, the climate here is characterized by a maritime climate. Fortunately Trondheim is mostly sheltered from the windy conditions out on the ocean and the coastline. The weather in Trondheim allows you to experience all four seasons and experience different activities such as skiing, fishing, hiking, a refreshing ice-bath during the winter or simply a lazy day at the beach in the summer. Trondheim experiences moderate snowfall from November to March. There are on average 14 days each winter with at least 25 cm snow cover on the ground and 22 days with daily minimum temperature −10 °C (14 °F) or colder. There is often substantially more snow in suburban areas at somewhat higher elevation, such as Byåsen and Heimdal, with good skiing conditions in Bymarka and surrounding areas. Spring often sees much sunshine, but nights can be chilly or cold. During the winter you will experience polar nights and with the right conditions you have a chance of experience the amazing northern lights. See http://www.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm for more detailed information. During the summer you can experience days long twilight days which allows for great activities.
Landscape
Several wetland habitats can be found within the city limits. The Gaulosen is one of these. Here you will find a newly built observation tower and information on the birdlife that can be found.
Despite Trondheim being Norway's third largest city, wild animals can be seen. Otters and beavers thrive in Nidelva and Bymarka. Badgers and foxes are not uncommon sights. Moose and deer are common in the hills surrounding the city, and might wander into the city, especially in May when the one year olds are chased away by their mothers, or in late winter when food grows scarce in the snow-covered higher regions. Since 2002, a wolverine has stayed in Bymarka. The public transportation system also allows students to access Trondheim’s surrounding wildlife and landscape quite easily. This involves landscape such as coastline, mountain ranges, wetlands, valley’s and lakes with fishing opportunities, all within the range of public transport. Because of the ever changing climate, the different seasons allows for completely different experiences during the year.
Places of interest
One of the obvious sights you want to visit is the Nidarosdomen, located in the city center. To be honest there is probably no way around it, since you will inevitably pass it by on the way to the city. A tour inside is also recommended, especially during the summer when you can walk up the church’s tower and get at great view of the city.
Another beautiful place, where you'll also have a very nice view over the city is the Kristiansten festning. Like the Nidarosdomen, the Kristiansten festning is something that is hard to miss. The plains before the Festning can be used for BBQ, relaxing, running and playing games. During the summer both students and “normal” citizens alike use this park copiously.
There are also several museums in Trondheim, which can be interesting to visit. Or how about a fishing trip or just some fishing in the fjord? There are also possibilities for climbing at the fjord.
If you have some more question feel free to ask us, there are many many more things you can do!
Studentersamfundet
Studentersamfundet is an organisation run by volunteer students and is a huge meeting point for all students. You can enjoy a good meal, socialize with a cheaper beer, attend the Tuesday-quiz, take part in the weekly meetings, enjoy concerts with both famous and less famous bands - and much more! It contains restaurants, bars, dance floor and a concert arena. If you buy a membership, you will get discounts on food, beverage and all arrangements. Everyone is welcome to do volunteer work or simply enjoy the different activities.
Check out the website for upcoming events: www.samfundet.no