Trondheim Airport, also called Trondheim Værnes Airport, is one of the major airports in Norway. It is located approximately 33 km east of the city center, serving as a significant hub for travelers heading to the south-central area of the country. This includes destinations ranging from the hinterland to Røros, Oppdal, and the Swedish border towards Östersund, as well as the towns along the fjords around Kristiansund, Namsos, and Rørvik. The airport is primarily used for domestic connections and serves as the main home base for regional connections to smaller airports in the area, which are operated by Widerøe.
While predominantly catering to locals and business travelers, Trondheim Airport plays a crucial role in connecting to one of the country’s major cities. Consequently, it continues to welcome an ever-growing number of international travelers. In this guide, you will find all the essential information about Trondheim Airport, including details on transportation options between the airport and the city center, as well as valuable insights regarding car rentals and hotels in close proximity to the airport.
What you’ll find in this Trondheim Airport guide:
Trondheim Airport: Everything You Need to Know
Trondheim Airport, known as Værnes (IATA: TRD, ICAO: ENVA), stands as a gateway to Trondheim and beyond. With a focus on both domestic and international travel, the airport accommodates a seamless transition for travelers moving in and out of the region. The airport is divided into two terminals: Terminal A caters to domestic flights, while Terminal B handles international traffic. Adding to its convenience, Trondheim Airport features an integrated railway station and two airport hotels, ensuring a smooth and connected travel experience.
Værnes Airport traces its origins back to 1887 when it was initially established by the Royal Norwegian Army. The first flight took to the skies in 1914, with subsequent developments gradually shaping the aerodrome facilities. The transformative phase came during World War II when the Luftwaffe constructed critical installations, including three concrete runways. Following the war, Værnes became home to the Air Force Pilot School, while civilian aviation officially commenced in 1951.
Trondheim Airport Domestic and International Connections
Among the prominent airlines operating at the airport are Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian Air Shuttle, and Widerøe. The heartbeat of Trondheim’s aerial network is undoubtedly the route to Oslo, which ranks as Europe’s fourth-busiest route. This route is collectively served by Norwegian, SAS, and Widerøe. Adding to the international connectivity are airlines such as airBaltic, Finnair, and KLM, which offer routes to various destinations from Trondheim. Widerøe also operates Dash 8 aircraft, serving six airports in Helgeland and Nord-Trøndelag. Travelers seeking international connections to Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Amsterdam can find options through airlines like SAS and KLM.
Trondheim Airport connects travelers to a range of destinations: Finnair opens doors to Helsinki, while KLM provides a gateway to Amsterdam. The offerings of Norwegian Air Shuttle are vast, encompassing flights to Alicante, Bergen, Copenhagen, Gran Canaria, Kraków, London–Gatwick, and Oslo. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) ensures connections to Bergen, Bodø, Copenhagen, Oslo, Stavanger, and Stockholm–Arlanda, along with seasonal routes to Haugesund and Tromsø. Widerøe connects to Ålesund, Bergen, Bodø, Brønnøysund, Harstad/Narvik, Mo i Rana, Mosjøen, Namsos, Oslo, Rørvik, Sandefjord, Sandnessjøen, and Tromsø, with additional seasonal flights to Kristiansand. Lastly, Wizz Air serves Gdańsk, completing the network of connections from Trondheim Airport.
Trondheim Airport Terminals and Hotels
The small and modern Trondheim Airport has two terminals, called A and B. Departures are located for both terminals on the upper floor, and in reality travelers are welcomed in a single hall, where there are unified check-in facilities for domestic, international and charter flights and a shared security check area. Domestic passengers will continue towards the area called Terminal A, while international passengers will continue further towards Terminal B, which is an area located after passport and customs controls.
The gates are arranged along a single large hall, and the terminal boasts an array of amenities, including a book store, convenience shops, clothing and cosmetic boutiques, crafts outlets, eateries, bars and restaurants. Additionally, a spacious duty-free store spanning 560 square meters awaits shoppers looking for tax-free indulgences.
The airport is relatively compact, and security checks typically requires no more than 5-15 minutes, and a similar timeframe suffices to reach any gate. Arrivals are equally hassle-free, as baggage claim sections equipped with restrooms and assistance services seamlessly transition into a communal space housing restaurants, car rental facilities, ATMs, and other traveler amenities. This area also grants direct access to taxi and bus waiting zones, to the railway station, and to the two airport hotels.
Adjacent to the terminals and the railway station, the Radisson Blu Hotel Trondheim Airport offers a convenient and luxurious accommodation option. Featuring 180 well-appointed rooms and 11 conference rooms, this hotel is designed for both business and leisure travelers. A short walk away, the Scandic Hell presents another popular lodging choice, ensuring proximity to the airport.
While slightly further in the town of Stjørdal, around a few kilometers away, one can find the Quality Airport Hotel Værnes and the Sure Hotel by Best Western Trondheim Airport. These options offer more budget-friendly rates, but the location is most suitable for those with access to a car. Otherwise, reaching these hotels might require taking an expensive taxi ride or bus or train to Stjørdal, which might be less advisable especially for arrivals or departures at night, late evening or early morning.
How to get from Trondheim Airport to Trondheim City Center
Getting from Trondheim Airport to the heart of the city is a straightforward affair, with a few options to choose from, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Bus from Trondheim Airport to the City Center
For most travelers, the airport express bus proves to be the most hassle-free mode of transit to reach the city center. Værnesekspressen operates two distinct routes, each making several stops within the city. If you have specific hotel requirements, simply communicate them to the staff, and they’ll guide you accordingly. You can check routes, departure times and even purchase tickets on the Værnes Express official website.
While tickets can also be bought onboard, purchasing them online beforehand is advisable as it often comes at a lower cost. Ticket prices start at 200kr for a one-way journey or 360kr for a round trip. There’s a small discount for online purchases, and return tickets remain valid for a generous three months. Concessions are extended to children, seniors, students and airport staff.
The coaches depart right outside the domestic arrivals, ensuring swift access to the city center. The journey itself takes around 30-35 minutes, a consistent option regardless of flight arrival times. Værnes Express covers all flights in Værnes, with departures 40 minutes after charter planes land and 3.5 hours prior to flight departures.
AtB operates local buses, a more economical albeit slower alternative. The following bus lines serve the Trondheim Airport Værnes stop:
- 70: Trondheim – Strindheim – Hommelvik – Stjørdal
- 311: Trondheim – Stjørdal
- 430: Trondheim – Stjørdal – Selbu – Væktarstua
- 670: Stjørdal – Meråker
- 116: Trondheim – Hommelvik – Stjørdal (Night bus)
The bus stop, named Trondheim Lufthavn, is situated along the airport driveway. A short four-minute walk through the parking garage connects you to the terminal. Buses use the same stop for trips to both Trondheim and Stjørdal.
Trains from Trondheim Airport to the City Center
Those seeking a speedy transit option can opt for the local train service. The recently upgraded Værnes Airport Station boasts an indoor waiting area and direct terminal access. The train journey to Trondheim S (central station) takes a mere 35 minutes and costs 100kr. However, keep in mind that train services aren’t as frequent as buses, with hourly departures during the day and fewer options in the evenings and weekends.
Trains are offered through Trondheim Airport Station by SJ Norge, featuring both commuter and express services. Express trains run three times daily to Mo i Rana and twice to Bodø. One of the Bodø-bound trains operates as a night train, with a travel time of 9 hours and 5 minutes. The Trøndelag Commuter Rail provides hourly services in both directions, reaching Trondheim in 38 minutes and Lerkendal in 51 minutes.
Roads from Trondheim Airport to the City Center
For those who prefer to drive, Trondheim Airport is conveniently located along European Routes E6 and E14. With 3.000 paid parking spaces available, both indoors and outdoors, parking is accommodating. Car rental services are also offered at the terminals, with average prices ranging from 450-600 NOK per day. Booking ahead through platforms like Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com is the best approach to securing a rental car at the best rates.
Hotels near Trondheim Airport
For a seamless and comfortable stay near Trondheim Airport, the Radisson Blu Hotel Trondheim Airport stands as an exceptional choice. With a direct link to the terminals and railway station, convenience is at your doorstep. This accommodation provides a pragmatic yet luxurious experience with its 180 well-appointed rooms and conference spaces, catering to both business and leisure travelers. The rooms are a model of modern comfort, equipped with international-standard amenities, including in-room complimentary tea and coffee, a minibar, and a work desk. Guests can relish the convenience of a good restaurant and a delightful continental breakfast buffet.
Just a brief stroll away lies the Scandic Hell, an excellent offering from the esteemed local chain Scandic. Comprising contemporary and well-maintained rooms, this hotel features complimentary tea and coffee amenities, coupled with an enticing indoor swimming pool and captivating vistas of the Trondheim Fjord. Fitness enthusiasts can partake in the fitness center’s offerings, while relaxation-seekers can indulge in the free sauna. The hotel’s good bar and restaurant serves delectable Scandinavian and international fare, including an impressive breakfast buffet. Plus, an early continental breakfast is up for grabs from the crack of dawn at 04:00 am each day.
For those who prefer a budget-friendly alternative in the town of Stjørdal, which is located a few kilometers away, not feasible on foot, the Quality Airport Hotel Værnes and the Sure Hotel by Best Western Trondheim Airport come to the fore. However, it’s worth noting that these options are better suited for those with access to a vehicle. Transportation might prove tricky, particularly for late-night or early-morning arrivals, as reaching these hotels could entail expensive taxi fares or reliance on public transport connections.
Practical Tips for Your Trip to Trondheim
If you are planning your trip, then you shouldn’t miss our guide to Things to Do in Trondheim, with all the local tips on the best attractions, experiences to have and places to visit.
Nestled in Norway’s scenic landscape, Trondheim offers a blend of history and modernity that’s sure to captivate travelers. One of its most popular landmarks is the marvelous Nidaros Cathedral, a medieval masterpiece adorned with intricate details. Be sure to explore its historic districts, stroll along the charming streets of Bakklandet, lined with colorful houses and cozy cafes, and cross the Old Town Bridge for a picture-perfect view.
Trondheim’s vibrant student population infuses the city with youthful energy, reflected in its nightlife, but the city also boasts one of Norway’s most interesting cultural scenes, with a small but interesting selection of museums, such as the Ringve Museum, which houses an impressive collection of musical instruments, while the Archbishop’s Palace Museum gives insight into local heritage.
Adventure seekers can hike or bike along the trails of Bymarka, a lush forest area encircling the city, or take a kayak trip down the Nidelva River. Foodies will find their haven, a range of culinary experiences from traditional Norwegian dishes to global flavors. Don’t miss out on the local seafood, a treat for the taste buds.
☞ Check out our guide on BEST THINGS TO DO IN TRONDHEIM