Munkholmen Trondheim - Building and church tower stand under overcast sky.
1 / 10

Munkholmen Trondheim

4.4
·84 reviews·, Norway

Historic islet off Trondheim, once a monastery, fortress, and prison, now a summer retreat with ruins and a beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Munkholmen Trondheim - Building and church tower stand under overcast sky.

Munkholmen Trondheim

Best Time

Summer weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic islet off Trondheim, once a monastery, fortress, and prison, now a summer retreat with ruins and a beach.

4.4
(84 reviews)

"Fascinating history, nice beach, but ferry service can be unreliable."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Ferry to Munkholmen

Ferries depart from Ravnkloa. Tickets are around 95 NOK. Check schedules carefully, especially for the return journey.

⏳ Guided Tours

Consider a short guided tour (approx. 50 NOK) for deeper historical insights. Inquire about English tours beforehand.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monastery Ruins

Monastery Ruins

Island interior

Explore the remnants of a medieval monastery, a testament to centuries of spiritual and historical significance.

Fortress & Prison Cells

Fortress & Prison Cells

Island interior

Step into the past within the fortress walls and imagine the lives of prisoners, including the famous Count Griffenfeld.

Island Beach

Island Beach

Coastal area

Enjoy a unique beach experience with finer sand than mainland spots, perfect for a relaxing detour or a dip.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Access & Timing

Plan your visit to Munkholmen by checking the ferry schedule from Ravnkloa. Ferries run frequently in summer, but confirm timings to avoid long waits, especially for the return trip. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

Island's Rich History

Munkholmen boasts a layered past, from Viking execution grounds to a monastery, fortress, and prison. While the island is small, understanding its history enhances the visit. Guided tours are available, though check for English options.

Best Times

When
Summer weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Escape to Munkholmen Island: Trondheim’s Hidden Gem! 🏝️✨ Just a short boat ride from Trondheim, Munkholmen Island is a must-visit for history lovers and adventure seekers! Once a Viking execution site, a medieval monastery, and later a fortress-prison, this tiny island has witnessed centuries of fascinating stories. 😱⚔️ Today, it’s the perfect spot to soak in breathtaking views, explore ancient ...
semanurozdemrs
50 likes • 1.4K views

🚢 Ferry to Munkholmen

Ferries depart from Ravnkloa. Tickets are around 95 NOK. Check schedules carefully, especially for the return journey. TikTokReddit

⏳ Guided Tours

Consider a short guided tour (approx. 50 NOK) for deeper historical insights. Inquire about English tours beforehand. Reddit

Munkholmen Trondheim’s little historic island 🇳🇴 Just off the coast of Trondheim, Norway, sits Munkholmen, a tiny island full of history. It started as a monastery in the 11th century, and over the centuries it became a fortress and even at some point even a prison. One of the most famous prisoners was the Danish count Peder Griffenfeld, who spent 18 years there! The fortress we see today was b...
modernknightcrusader
11 likes • 198 views
Galleri Munkholmen 2025 🕊️ Jeg er så takknemlig for å bli invitert med til Galleri Munkholmen for tredje år på rad! ✨ På søndag setter jeg opp utstillingen min, fylt med håndstøpte lys og sommerstemning. Galleriet åpner mandag 23. juni og holder åpent hver dag frem til 17. august – midt ute i Trondheimsfjorden. Ta båten ut og opplev kunst, historie og kanskje du finner et nytt favorittlys 💛 #Gal...
bybrandhaug
24 likes • 423 views

☀️ Summer Island Visit

Munkholmen is best enjoyed during the summer months when the cafe is open and the weather is pleasant. Reddit

🏖️ Beach Relaxation

The island has a nice beach with finer sand, offering a pleasant spot to relax or even swim if the temperature is right. Reddit

Står Nidelva, Munkholmen og Nidarosdomen bucketlista i sommer?✈️ Da bør du se her før du booker den turen til Trondheim🕍 Quality Hotel™ Panorama feirer 200 nye hotellrom, 2000 kvm stor kongressavdeling og et splitter nytt hotelltårn med ny restaurant 💥 Nyåpningen feires med et knalltilbud det smeller av - vi slipper nå 1000 rom til kun 995,- per person.. Psst! Middag og deiiiilig hotellfrokost i...
qualityhotel
35 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Ferry to Munkholmen

Ferries depart from Ravnkloa. Tickets are around 95 NOK. Check schedules carefully, especially for the return journey. TikTokReddit

⏳ Guided Tours

Consider a short guided tour (approx. 50 NOK) for deeper historical insights. Inquire about English tours beforehand. Reddit

☀️ Summer Island Visit

Munkholmen is best enjoyed during the summer months when the cafe is open and the weather is pleasant. Reddit

🏖️ Beach Relaxation

The island has a nice beach with finer sand, offering a pleasant spot to relax or even swim if the temperature is right. Reddit

☕ Cafe Experience

The island cafe offers refreshments, but be aware of limited options like milk for coffee. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(84 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Munkholmen offers a fascinating historical journey with its former monastery, fortress, and prison, complemented by a pleasant island beach. While the historical sites and scenic views are highly praised, some visitors have noted issues with inconsistent cafe service and ferry reliability. The island is a worthwhile detour for its unique past and tranquil atmosphere.

"Had to go for a 12 minute boat ride from the city to this island. Though there wasn’t so much to see, I liked it because it has finer sand than Korsvika beach. Nice for quick detour 😊"

Grace

"While the site itself is fascinating with great views, the service was overall mediocre to outright infuriating. The cafe did not offer milk with coffee, not everyone likes a bitter black cuppa. And for lunch we ordered a soup with refill, but then there was no refill available. This was substituted with a waffle, but a waffle is not soup, which is what i paid for. The tour was in Norwegian, with no English even though there were a fair amount of foreigners in the group. This would have been okay if we looked at the sites while the guide spoke, but instead he sat in a seat and then told us to go off and fund the things he spoke of 30 minutes later. But the thing that dissapointed me most was when the ferry back to the main land did not arrive at 3.15pm as scheduled, but rather 4.15pm, with no communication from anyone. We could have enjoyed the island a bit more, but instead all stood in the sun waiting anxiously while other events we paid for in the city were passing us by. I tried calling the ferry several times and messaged on FB, but never received any response."

Natalie Field

"One of the must see attractions in Trondheim! Is it worth to go for short guided tour (50NOK), really interesting. Nice beach with some sand, is it possible to swim there where temperature is higher. Lot of people can go there with kayaks, boats or bigger boat from Trondheim (95NOK). Perfect place to go there during the week, when there is less people, you can calm down and rest well."

Krzysztof Cisek

What People Like

Rich history
Scenic island views
Unique beach

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service
Ferry delays
Limited English tours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Munkholmen is by taking a ferry from Ravnkloa in Trondheim. The boat ride is short, about 12 minutes, and ferries run frequently during the summer season. TikTokReddit

Ferries to Munkholmen typically run every half hour during the summer. It's crucial to check the exact schedule, especially for the last ferry back to the mainland, as delays can occur. Reddit

The ferry ticket to Munkholmen is approximately 95 NOK. It's advisable to have cash or check if card payments are accepted on board. Reddit

Yes, many visitors opt to reach Munkholmen by kayak or private boat, especially during good weather. This offers more flexibility in timing your visit. Reddit

While the island has historical structures, accessibility can be challenging due to uneven terrain and stairs. It's best to inquire about specific access points if mobility is a concern.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While access to the island itself is generally free, there is a fee for the ferry service. Some specific activities or tours on the island might also have separate charges. Reddit

Munkholmen is accessible during daylight hours, but facilities like the cafe and guided tours operate on specific schedules, primarily during the summer season. Instagram

The historical sites on Munkholmen are part of the island's heritage. While general access is free, a small fee of around 50 NOK is often charged for guided tours that delve into the history. Reddit

Tickets for the ferry are typically purchased directly at Ravnkloa before boarding. Advance booking is usually not required for general island access. Reddit

Munkholmen occasionally hosts events, including art exhibitions like Galleri Munkholmen during the summer, which runs from late June to mid-August. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Munkholmen offers a glimpse into history with its former monastery, fortress, and prison cells. You can also enjoy the island's beach and scenic views of Trondheim. Instagram+2

Yes, short guided tours are available on Munkholmen, offering insights into its rich history. However, ensure to check if English tours are offered, as they are sometimes only in Norwegian. Reddit

The island has a beach with finer sand, and swimming is possible during warmer periods. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the fjord. Reddit

Munkholmen has a fascinating past, serving as a Viking execution site, a medieval monastery, and later a fortress and prison. It's a place steeped in centuries of Norwegian history. Instagram+4

Absolutely! The island offers picturesque views of the Trondheim fjord and city, making it a great spot for photography, especially with its historical structures. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on Munkholmen that is typically open during the summer months. It offers refreshments and light meals. Reddit

The cafe offers a selection of drinks and snacks. While some reviews mention soup with refill options, availability can vary. Reddit

Picnicking is generally allowed on public islands. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to spend a longer time there. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's recommended to inquire directly with the cafe upon arrival or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

Ravnkloa is a harbor area with several seafood restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of dining experiences before or after your trip to Munkholmen. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the historical fortress, the monastery ruins, and panoramic views of the Trondheim fjord and city skyline. The island's unique atmosphere provides many photographic opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions on Munkholmen before flying. Instagram

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, midday can also provide clear views of the island and its surroundings. Instagram

The ancient stone walls of the fortress, the remnants of the monastery, and the old prison cells offer compelling subjects for historical and atmospheric photography. Instagram+2

Yes, the ferry ride itself offers great photo opportunities, capturing the journey across the fjord and the approaching island. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Munkholmen can be an engaging outing for families. The short ferry ride is often an adventure in itself for children. Once on the island, the historical fortress and prison cells can spark imagination, making history come alive. Instagram+2

While the historical aspects are fascinating, the island's beach offers a chance for kids to play and enjoy the outdoors. Bringing snacks and drinks is recommended, as the cafe's offerings might be limited. Weekday visits are ideal to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for the whole family. Reddit

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Munkholmen is a must-visit. Its layered past, from Viking executions to a medieval monastery and a 17th-century fortress-prison, offers a rich tapestry of Norwegian history. Instagram+4

Exploring the ruins and imagining the lives of those who inhabited or were imprisoned here is a profound experience. Taking a guided tour, if available in your language, can significantly enhance your understanding of the island's historical significance. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Munkholmen presents a unique blend of historical architecture and scenic coastal views, making it a photographer's delight. Capture the atmospheric ruins of the monastery and fortress, the stark prison cells, and the panoramic vistas of the Trondheim fjord. Instagram

The island offers diverse photographic opportunities, from close-ups of weathered stone to wide shots of the surrounding landscape. Consider visiting during the golden hours for dramatic lighting, or on a clear day for unobstructed views of the city skyline. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Munkholmen's History

Munkholmen is an island steeped in a dramatic and varied history. Its origins trace back to the Viking Age, where it served as a site for executions. Later, in the 11th century, Benedictine monks established a monastery here, giving the island its current name, 'Monk's Island'. This period marked a significant spiritual and cultural presence in the region. Instagram+4

By the 17th century, Munkholmen was transformed into a formidable fortress and prison. It housed notable figures, including the Danish count Peder Schumacher Griffenfeld, who spent 18 years in its cells. This era highlights the island's strategic importance and its role in political and judicial history. Today, these historical layers are palpable as you explore the ruins and structures that remain. Instagram+3

Visitors can explore the remnants of the monastery, the robust fortress walls, and the austere prison cells. A short guided tour can provide deeper insights into these historical periods, though it's worth confirming if English tours are available. The island's transformation from a place of execution and confinement to a historical site and summer retreat is a compelling narrative. InstagramReddit+1

Experiencing Munkholmen: Beyond the History

While Munkholmen's history is a primary draw, the island offers more than just historical exploration. During the summer months, it transforms into a pleasant recreational spot. A cafe operates on the island, providing refreshments and a place to relax after exploring the historical sites. InstagramReddit

The island also features a beach with finer sand than some mainland beaches, making it an attractive spot for a leisurely afternoon. Visitors can enjoy the sun, take a dip in the fjord if the weather permits, or simply unwind by the water. The combination of historical intrigue and natural beauty makes Munkholmen a unique destination. InstagramReddit

For those seeking a more active experience, Munkholmen is also accessible by kayak or private boat, allowing for a personalized journey to the island. This flexibility adds to the appeal for adventurers and those who prefer to set their own pace. Reddit

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