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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Munkholmen Trondheim
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic islet off Trondheim, once a monastery, fortress, and prison, now a summer retreat with ruins and a beach.
"Fascinating history, nice beach, but ferry service can be unreliable."
🚢 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
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
Island's Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚢 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.
☀️ Summer Island Visit
Munkholmen is best enjoyed during the summer months when the cafe is open and the weather is pleasant.
🏖️ 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.
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.
⏳ Guided Tours
Consider a short guided tour (approx. 50 NOK) for deeper historical insights. Inquire about English tours beforehand.
☀️ Summer Island Visit
Munkholmen is best enjoyed during the summer months when the cafe is open and the weather is pleasant.
🏖️ 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.
☕ Cafe Experience
The island cafe offers refreshments, but be aware of limited options like milk for coffee.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The ferry ticket to Munkholmen is approximately 95 NOK. It's advisable to have cash or check if card payments are accepted on board.
Yes, many visitors opt to reach Munkholmen by kayak or private boat, especially during good weather. This offers more flexibility in timing your visit.
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.
Munkholmen is accessible during daylight hours, but facilities like the cafe and guided tours operate on specific schedules, primarily during the summer season.
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.
Tickets for the ferry are typically purchased directly at Ravnkloa before boarding. Advance booking is usually not required for general island access.
Munkholmen occasionally hosts events, including art exhibitions like Galleri Munkholmen during the summer, which runs from late June to mid-August.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! The island offers picturesque views of the Trondheim fjord and city, making it a great spot for photography, especially with its historical structures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on Munkholmen that is typically open during the summer months. It offers refreshments and light meals.
The cafe offers a selection of drinks and snacks. While some reviews mention soup with refill options, availability can vary.
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.
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.
Ravnkloa is a harbor area with several seafood restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of dining experiences before or after your trip to Munkholmen.
📸 📸 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.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions on Munkholmen before flying.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, midday can also provide clear views of the island and its surroundings.
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.
Yes, the ferry ride itself offers great photo opportunities, capturing the journey across the fjord and the approaching island.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
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.
📸 Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Munkholmen's History
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.
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.
Experiencing Munkholmen: Beyond the History
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.
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.
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