Set at the mouth of a glacier-carved fjord and surrounded by more than 200 mountains, Molde showcases the wild natural beauty of Norway. The town is set around a picturesque harbour filled with cafes and al fresco restaurants. Molde will satisfy your appetite for adventure with hiking, mountain biking and island-hopping at your fingertips.
Things to do in Molde
Molde lives up to its “Town of Roses” nickname with picturesque streets and squares filled with colourful flowers. Down by the harbour, you’ll find waterfront restaurants perfect for enjoying seafood platters and craft beer.
Every July, music lovers descend on Molde for the annual jazz festival, with the week-long celebration showcasing local talent from Scandinavia and around the world. Many performances are held in Aker Stadium, a striking building made from granite and glass.
A well-marked trail winds up to the Varden lookout. At 400 metres above sea level, it commands sweeping views over the town, fjord and surrounding peaks. After your hike, reward yourself with coffee, cake and Nordic cuisine at the atmospheric restaurant.
An easy day trip from Molde, the tiny island of Ona feels rugged and remote. The island is home to a small fishing community and will charm you with its beautiful rocky beaches and a postcard-perfect lighthouse. Other islands worth a visit include Bjørnsund and Gossen.
More than 50 beautifully restored historic buildings dot the Romsdalmuseet museum. Walking around the open-air village, you can peer into churches, townhouses, farmsteads, barns and workshops. One of the townhouses has been reimagined as an atmospheric café.
Getting around Molde
Molde is a pedestrian-friendly city, while local buses are a quick and easy way to get around. Ferries depart from the harbour and take you to offshore islands. Molde Airport is a 10-minute drive from the town centre and Oslo is a 7.5-hour drive south.