· NO

Molde

Molde, More og Romsdal, Norway

Molde, nestled in the heart of the stunning Møre og Romsdal region in Norway, is a picturesque town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. This charming coastal town is …

#Scenic views#Fjords#Outdoor activities#Cultural heritage#Norwegian cuisine

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Molde.

Top Hotels in Molde

Top Flights to Molde

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Molde.

Tours

Explore the Atlantic Road

A breathtaking drive on one of the world's most scenic roads, featuring a series of bridges that arch across the sea.

Visit the Romsdal Museum

One of Norway's largest folk museums, showcasing the cultural history of the people in the Romsdal region.

Discover the Molde Panorama

Experience 222 peaks visible from the city known as the 'Molde Panorama'.

Aukra Bunker Museum Visit

Visit this former German World War II fortification turned into an enlightening museum.

Molde Harbor Promenade

Stroll along the Molde Harbor, enjoying the views of the fjord and boats.

Molde Cathedral Tour

Visit the neo-Gothic style Molde Cathedral, restored to its beauty after being severely damaged in WWII.

Shopping

Shopping in Molde sentrum

Explore a variety of local shops and boutiques offering everything from Norwegian crafts to fashion.

Outdoor

Hike to Varden Viewpoint

A rewarding hike to a viewpoint offering stunning views over Molde and the surrounding fjords.

Guided Kayak Tour in the Molde Fjord

Join a guided tour to explore the Molde Fjord from the water, suitable for all levels.

Tusten Ski Resort Adventure

Enjoy winter sports at Tusten Ski Resort, with slopes and facilities for all skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Molde.

Currency

kr | NOK | Norwegian Krone

Population

21103.0

Languages

Norwegian, Norwegian

Average weather

Molde

Jan

2°-2°

Feb

2°-2°

Mar

4°0°

Apr

8°2°

May

13°6°

Jun

16°10°

Jul

18°12°

Aug

18°12°

Sep

14°9°

Oct

10°5°

Nov

5°1°

Dec

3°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Molde.

What people love

Molde, located in the Møre og Romsdal region of Norway, is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty and unique attractions. Here are some pros of traveling to Molde:

The Molde Panorama: Molde is often referred to as the "City of Roses" and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding fjords, islands, and mountains. The Molde Panorama viewpoint is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area.
Outdoor Activities: Molde is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and skiing in the nearby mountains and fjords. The Romsdalseggen Ridge hike is a popular and challenging trek that offers spectacular views.
Cultural Events: Molde is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances taking place throughout the year. The Molde International Jazz Festival is a particularly popular event that attracts musicians and jazz enthusiasts from around the world.
Historical Sites: Molde has a rich history, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the Molde Cathedral, the Romsdal Museum, and the Varden War Memorial, which commemorates the town's role in World War II.
Scenic Drives: The scenic drives around Molde, including the Atlantic Road and the Trollstigen Mountain Road, offer stunning views of the Norwegian landscape and are a great way to explore the region at your own pace.

Overall, Molde is a picturesque and welcoming destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical sites for visitors to enjoy.

Enjoy your trip to Molde!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Molde in Norway could include:

Weather: Molde experiences a maritime climate with frequent rain and cloudy weather. Visitors may find the weather to be unpredictable and potentially damp during their stay.
Cost: Norway is known for being an expensive country to visit, with high prices for accommodation, dining, and activities. Travelers should be prepared for the high cost of living in Molde.
Limited tourist infrastructure: Molde is a smaller city compared to other tourist destinations in Norway, so visitors may find that there are fewer tourist amenities and attractions compared to larger cities.
Limited transportation options: While Molde is accessible by road, rail, and air, transportation options within the city and surrounding areas may be limited, making it challenging to explore the region without a car.

Overall, while Molde offers stunning natural beauty and a unique cultural experience, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges such as unpredictable weather, high costs, limited tourist infrastructure, and transportation options.

Molde is a town and municipality located in Møre og Romsdal county in Norway. Known for its beautiful surroundings and panoramic views of the Romsdal Alps, Molde has a rich history characterized by both its natural beauty and its development as a center of trade and culture in the region.

Early History

Molde's history dates back to the Middle Ages, with the first known reference to the settlement appearing in the 14th century. Initially, it was a small community focused on agriculture and fishing, essential for its early economy.

Growth and Development

In the 18th century, Molde began to grow as a trading post. The town's location along the coast made it an ideal spot for maritime trade. The 19th century saw further expansion due to the timber industry, with Molde becoming a significant exporter of wood.

19th Century

The 19th century was a period of cultural development for Molde. It became known as the "City of Roses" due to its flourishing rose gardens. During this time, the town also became a popular destination for European royalty and other tourists. The famous Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen visited Molde, further boosting its status as a cultural hub.

World War II

Molde was significantly affected during World War II. In 1940, the town was bombed by German forces, resulting in extensive damage. The bombing led to the destruction of many historic buildings, but it also sparked a period of post-war reconstruction that shaped modern Molde.

Post-War Period

After World War II, Molde underwent significant rebuilding efforts. The town was modernized, with new infrastructure and architecture. This period also saw the establishment of Molde University College, which became an important educational institution in the region.

Notable Figures

Henrik Ibsen: Although not from Molde, Ibsen's visits contributed to the town's cultural reputation.
Arne Treholt: A notable figure from Molde, Treholt was a Norwegian diplomat and politician who was convicted of treason and espionage during the Cold War.

Landmarks

Romsdal Museum: This open-air museum showcases the cultural history of the region, with buildings and artifacts from various periods.
Molde Cathedral: A post-war modernist church built in the 1950s, featuring beautiful stained glass windows.
Varden: A viewpoint that offers stunning panoramas of Molde, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains.

Cultural Events

Molde is known for hosting the annual Moldejazz Festival, one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals, attracting international artists and visitors.

Economic Development

In recent years, Molde has continued to develop economically, with industries such as manufacturing, services, and tourism playing significant roles. The town's scenic beauty and cultural offerings make it a popular destination for visitors.

Overall, Molde's history is marked by its transformation from a small settlement to a vibrant cultural and economic center in Norway, with a legacy of resilience and renewal.