
Røros Mining Town
Step back in time in Røros, a UNESCO World Heritage mining town with beautifully preserved 17th & 18th-century buildings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Long daylight for exploring

Røros Mining Town
Best Time
Long daylight for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Røros, a UNESCO World Heritage mining town with beautifully preserved 17th & 18th-century buildings.
"Walking through the narrow streets felt like stepping back in time."

🚶♀️ Guided Town Tour
Highly recommended! Learn Røros' history from knowledgeable guides, often ending with a unique church visit.
⛏️ Museum Flow
Visit the Olav mine first, then the museum to follow the ore's journey. Great insight into mining processes.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Røros Mining Town & The Circumference
Central Røros
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site, a living museum of Norway's copper mining history with preserved 17th- and 18th-century buildings.

Røros Museum
Former copper smelter factory
Discover the fascinating process of copper mining and smelting through animated models and historical exhibits.

Lysgaard Ceramics
Heart of Røros
Admire unique handmade pottery and sculptures by Per Lysgaard in this artistic gem of the historic town.

Stor-Magritt's House
Near the slag heaps
Visit a unique 'coffee grinder house' from the late 1700s, named after its former owner, Stor-Magritt.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Past: Plan Your Røros Visit
Timing is Key for Røros Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Guided Town Tour
Highly recommended! Learn Røros' history from knowledgeable guides, often ending with a unique church visit.
⛏️ Museum Flow
Visit the Olav mine first, then the museum to follow the ore's journey. Great insight into mining processes.
🏠 Turf Roof Charm
Admire the traditional turf roofs on historic houses, a charming feature of Røros.
🖼️ Art & Craft
Explore local art at Lysgaard Ceramics for unique handmade pottery and sculptures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Guided Town Tour
Highly recommended! Learn Røros' history from knowledgeable guides, often ending with a unique church visit.
⛏️ Museum Flow
Visit the Olav mine first, then the museum to follow the ore's journey. Great insight into mining processes.
🏠 Turf Roof Charm
Admire the traditional turf roofs on historic houses, a charming feature of Røros.
🖼️ Art & Craft
Explore local art at Lysgaard Ceramics for unique handmade pottery and sculptures.
🚶♂️ Slag Heap Walk
Walk around the slag mountain area outside the museum for free, offering a different perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Røros Mining Town for its exceptional preservation and immersive historical experience, likening it to stepping back in time. The Røros Museum is highlighted for its insightful exhibits on copper mining, and guided tours are highly recommended for their engaging content. While the town's charm is undeniable, some visitors note that it can be a bit quiet outside of peak season.
"A magnificent museum devoted to the exploration of copper in the Røros region starting in the 16 hundreds and going on till the late 1970's. The life of the workers in the harsh climate becomes evident, in particular since we visited a summer Saturday of July 2025 with 30 degrees in the shade. People from Røros flocked to the dam upstreams from the museum to swim. After having left the museum closing at 5 pm we noticed we had left the turner of grandma, 98, inside the closed museum. I managed to find one of the technicians, Åge Sandnes, who came back on his motor bike to save our day. Many thanks!!"
Sebastian Reiz
"Great museum Suggest to first go to the olive mine and then visit the museum (follow the flow of the ore) The museum is situated in the former copper melter factory Gives good insight in the process, the history, the society and working conditions Especially the scale models are worth a visit on its own We watched the Norwegian version of the film, later we figured out that there is also an English version (displayed alternating) Recommended a visit Have fun"
Wim de rooij
"Did a guided tour around the town which was arranged by the museum. Absolutely recommend it to everyone visiting Røros! It was very interesting to learn more about the history, and our tour guide, Oliver, was extremely knowledgeable and engaging! To top it all off, the tour ended with a visit inside the church, which is one of the more unique churches I have seen!"
T-H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Røros is accessible by train from Oslo or Trondheim, offering scenic views along the Rørosbanen railway line.
Driving is also an option, with parking available in town. The journey itself is part of the experience, showcasing Norway's diverse landscapes.Yes, Røros Mining Town and The Circumference is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional cultural and historical significance.
The Circumference refers to the area around the copper mines that was historically vital for their operation, including resources and transport routes.
Absolutely! Røros transforms into a magical winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes and cozy atmosphere. Many attractions remain open, offering a unique seasonal experience.
While Røros can be visited as a day trip, staying longer allows for a deeper immersion into its history and charm. Consider an overnight stay to fully appreciate the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Museum hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. The museum typically closes around 5 PM.
For most attractions like the Røros Museum, booking in advance is not strictly necessary, but it's advisable during peak season to secure your spot. Guided tours, however, might require pre-booking.
Yes, you can freely walk around the historic town center and explore the area outside the museum, including the slag heap, which offers a glimpse into the mining past.
Admission fees apply for the Røros Museum. Prices can vary, so checking their website or inquiring locally is recommended. The museum offers excellent value for the insights it provides.
The Olav mine is often recommended as a starting point before visiting the museum, suggesting it's accessible as part of the museum experience or a related tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings, visit the Røros Museum to learn about mining history, discover local crafts at Lysgaard Ceramics, and wander through charming streets.
The town is filled with historic wooden houses, many featuring traditional turf roofs. Stor-Magritt's House is a notable example of unique historical architecture.
Yes, Røros is a very walkable town. The historic center is compact, allowing you to easily explore its charming streets and attractions on foot.
The Røros church is described as one of the more unique churches, often included in guided town tours, adding to the historical experience.
You can find unique handmade crafts, particularly pottery and sculptures from local artists like Lysgaard Ceramics, as well as items reflecting the town's mining heritage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Røros offers traditional Norwegian fare, often featuring local ingredients. Look for hearty dishes that reflect the region's history and climate. Cafes and restaurants provide a cozy atmosphere.
Yes, Røros has charming cafes where you can enjoy coffee and local pastries. They are perfect spots to relax and soak in the historic ambiance after exploring.
Several restaurants in Røros serve traditional Norwegian dishes. Ask locals for recommendations or look for establishments that highlight regional specialties.
Dining prices in Røros are comparable to other tourist destinations in Norway. Budget-friendly options like cafes and bakeries are available alongside more upscale restaurants.
While traditional Norwegian cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in Røros are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or inform your server of dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming wooden houses with their turf roofs, the historic streets, the Røros Museum, and the surrounding industrial-historic landscapes. The town offers picturesque scenes at every turn.
Winter in Røros is incredibly photogenic, with snow-covered buildings and a unique, serene atmosphere. The contrast of colorful houses against the white snow is stunning.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for capturing the town's charm. However, the unique architecture looks great throughout the day.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Røros municipality regarding any restrictions before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both street scenes and wider landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for architectural shots. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. While Røros offers a glimpse into a historical working town, it's also a place where families can enjoy the outdoors. In summer, the nearby dam is a popular spot for swimming, offering a fun break from historical exploration. Look for cafes that offer kid-friendly snacks and meals to keep energy levels up during your adventures.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when accommodation prices might be lower. While the Røros Museum has an admission fee, it's a worthwhile investment for the historical insights it provides. Opting for public transport like the scenic train journey to Røros can also be more economical than driving, especially when factoring in parking costs.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a stay in one of the historic guesthouses for an immersive experience. A guided town tour can add a layer of shared discovery, uncovering the stories behind the charming buildings. For a touch of local artistry, visiting Lysgaard Ceramics offers a chance to find a unique memento of your romantic escape. The quiet ambiance of Røros makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking a peaceful and culturally rich getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Røros: A Mining Legacy
Today, Røros stands as a remarkably preserved example of a mining settlement. Its characteristic wooden houses, many adorned with traditional turf roofs, transport visitors back to a bygone era. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping onto a historical film set, offering a tangible connection to the lives of miners and their families who built a resilient community here.
The Røros Museum, housed in the former copper smelter factory, is central to understanding this legacy. It provides deep insights into the mining and smelting processes, the societal structure, and the challenging working conditions faced by its inhabitants. The museum's animated models are particularly praised for their educational value, making the complex history accessible and engaging for all visitors.
Experiencing Røros: Beyond the Mines
Art and craftsmanship are also integral to Røros's identity. Lysgaard Ceramics is a highlight, showcasing the unique creations of artist Per Lysgaard. Visitors can admire handmade pottery and sculptures, and even witness the artistic process, adding a cultural dimension to the visit. For a glimpse into specific historical dwellings, Stor-Magritt's House, a unique 'coffee grinder house' from the late 1700s, offers a fascinating look at domestic life in the past.
For those seeking a deeper understanding, a guided tour around the town is highly recommended. Local guides share engaging stories and historical facts, often culminating in a visit to the unique Røros church, enriching the visitor's appreciation for the town's heritage. Even the surrounding landscape, including the slag heaps from mining operations, offers a unique visual element and opportunities for exploration.
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