Molde, known as the „City of Roses,” is one of the most picturesque destinations on Norway’s west coast. Famous for its breathtaking fjord and mountain panoramas, rich cultural heritage, and numerous tourist attractions, this guide will help you plan your visit. Discover the best attractions, how to get around the city, and practical tips to make the most of your stay in Molde.
1. Top Attractions in Molde
1.1. Varden Viewpoint
- Description: Situated 407 meters above sea level, Varden offers a stunning panoramic view of Molde, the Romsdalsfjorden, and 222 snow-capped peaks.
- How to get there? A 1-hour hike from the city center or a short drive by car.
- Tip: Visit at sunset for the most spectacular scenery.
1.2. Romsdalsmuseet – Folk Museum
- Description: One of Norway’s largest folk museums, showcasing traditional architecture and culture from the Romsdal region. Explore historic houses, workshops, and exhibitions on local history.
- Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Ticket price: Around 120 NOK for adults.
- Tip: Visit in the summer to enjoy live craft demonstrations and traditional dances.
1.3. Moldejazz – Jazz Festival
- Description: One of Europe’s oldest and largest jazz festivals, held every July. It attracts music lovers from around the world and features performances by global stars and local artists.
- Location: Various venues across the city.
- Tip: Book your tickets in advance, as the festival is extremely popular.
1.4. Moldemarka – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
- Description: A forested area north of the city, offering numerous hiking and cross-country skiing trails perfect for outdoor activities.
- Best trails: The route to Varden viewpoint and the trail around Lake Moldevatnet.
- Tip: Bring a map or use a trekking app to navigate the trails.
1.5. Molde Cathedral (Molde Domkirke)
- Description: A modern cathedral with a distinctive tower and beautiful stained-glass windows, serving as a symbol of the city.
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Tip: Step inside to admire the impressive wooden altar and stunning organ.
2. How to Get Around Molde
2.1. Getting to Molde
- By plane: Molde Årø Airport (MOL) offers flights from Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim (10-minute drive to the city center).
- By bus: Operators such as Vy Buss and Fram provide connections to Ålesund and Kristiansund.
- By ferry: The Molde – Vestnes ferry route, operated by Fjord1, is a popular option.
- By car: The E39 highway leads to Molde, or you can take the scenic Atlantic Road.
2.2. Public transportation in Molde
- Buses: Local routes operated by Fram, with tickets available via their app or from the driver.
- Taxis: Molde Taxi offers convenient transport, though prices can be high.
- Bikes: Several rental options are available, making it easy to explore the city.
2.3. The Best Ways to Explore Molde
- Walk along the city center and the scenic waterfront promenade.
- Take a fjord cruise to enjoy breathtaking views from the water.
- Rent a car for trips to nearby attractions, such as the famous Atlantic Road.
3. What to Bring for Exploring Molde
To make the most of your visit to Molde, consider bringing the following essentials:
- Comfortable hiking shoes – perfect for walking in the mountains.
- Rain and windproof clothing – Norwegian weather can be unpredictable.
- A tourist map or GPS app (e.g. Google Maps).
- A camera or smartphone with a good camera.
- Snacks and a water bottle – useful for longer excursions.
- Credit card – Norway is largely cashless.
4. Fun Facts About Molde
- Molde is known as the „City of Roses” because of its many rose gardens that flourish due to the mild climate.
- The city’s history dates back to the 13th century when it was a small fishing village.
- Molde is a popular stop for cruise ships traveling through the Norwegian fjords.
5. Summary
Molde is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those looking to relax by the fjords. Whether you want to admire the panoramic views from Varden, explore the local history at Romsdalsmuseet, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the fjords – Molde has it all.
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