Bakklandet and Those Wonderful Wooden Dock Houses

Bakklandet is an old neighbourhood dating back to the 1600s, and probably the most charming area of Trondheim. When you add to that the lovely wooden dock houses lining both sides of Nidelven (the river), you have a district not to miss. Bakklandet stretches from Bakke bru (Bakke Bridge) to Vollafallet. The first section north of the stunning Gamle Bybro (Old Town Bridge) is Nedre Bakklandet (Lower Bakklandet), and the section south of the bridge is Øvre Bakklandet (Upper Bakklandet). Since I was staying at Comfort Hotel, a natural starting point was Bakke bru. From there I continued south on cobblestoned streets among low, colorful, wooden buildings, housing homes, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Due to COVID and season not as busy as I imagine it is at other times. When I arrived at the red Bybroa / Gamle Bybro, also called Lykkens portal (Gate of Happiness), I crossed over towards Nidarosdomen, meaning I didn’t explore Øvre Bakklandet. Another thing I didn’t (know to) look for, was the world’s first bicycle elevator, named Trampe. Apparently an amusement to locals seeing visitors try to work it 😀

For enjoying the dock houses, there are openings between some of the buildings giving access to viewing the houses on the opposite side. This you will find on both riverbanks. Also great shots from both bridges. There are some dock houses along the canal as well, but they can not compare to these ones. This is the best area.

Bakklandet is a short walk from the main square.