Namsos is a lively port town set around a picturesque harbour. Once a thriving timber town, today visitors flock to Namsos to shop at artisan boutiques, visit local history museums and dine on reindeer stew at cosy bistros.
Things to do in Namsos
Namsos is filled with tiny shops where you can stock up on handmade souvenirs and colourful wool jumpers. The town’s popular artisan deli stocks wild salmon, reindeer steaks, artisan cheese and other local delicacies.
If you’re interested in local arts and crafts, don’t miss Lysstøperiet, a locally-owned candle factory housed in a former train shed. Chat to the owners about how the candles are made and pick up your favourite creations from the gift shop.
Rocky City occupies a striking contemporary building and celebrates the famous musicians born in Namsos over the decades. The museum is a great chance to learn about artists such as Åge Aleksandersen, and their impact on the Scandinavian music scene.
Guided tours of Norsk Sagbruksmuseum take you behind the scenes of a steam-powered sawmill built in the 1800s. It’s an excellent rainy day activity and charts the history of the Norwegian timber industry. Namdalsmuseet is another of the town’s niche museums, with exhibits on wooden sailboats and antique farming equipment. Kids love patting the museum’s friendly farm animals.
A steep road winds up to the summit of Mount Klompen and treats you to sweeping views over the town and the Norwegian Sea. There are several hiking trails within a short drive of Namsos, including a trail that leads to the top of Svartfjellet peak.
Getting around Namsos
Set on the Coastal Route between Trondheim and Bodø, Namsos is easy to access from both major cities. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Namsos and the surrounding area at your own pace. Trondheim Airport is a 2.5-hour drive south.