Things To Do
in Molde
Molde is a coastal town in Romsdal on Norway’s western coast, famed for its panoramic views of 222 snow-capped peaks called the Molde Panorama. It blends a compact seaside town center with easy access to dramatic fjords, islands and mountains, making it a popular base for scenic drives and outdoor activities. Molde has a lively cultural scene—summer jazz festival, museums and parks—alongside traditional fishing and maritime heritage.
The town is easy to navigate, welcoming to visitors, and serves as a gateway to the Romsdal Alps and nearby attractions like Åndalsnes and the Atlantic Road.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Molde and check into your charming waterfront hotel. Take some time to freshen up and enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional Norwegian dishes. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront and admire the stunning views of the fjord.
Spend your afternoon exploring the town's unique architecture and the beautiful parks that dot the landscape. Visit the Romsdal Museum to experience the local history and culture through its exhibitions and preserved buildings. Take a walk along the scenic 'Molde Panorama' path, which showcases the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant to indulge in fresh seafood, caught locally from the pristine waters. Enjoy the warm ambiance and perhaps try some traditional Norwegian aquavit. After dinner, take an evening walk along the waterfront, reflecting on the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a fjord cruise that takes you through the stunning Romsdalsfjord. Make sure to capture photos of the dramatic landscapes while enjoying the serene atmosphere. A guided tour will also educate you about the unique flora and fauna of the region.
Upon returning, enjoy lunch at a local café and then take some time to visit the famous Aker Stadion, home to the Molde FK soccer team. You can either catch a game if the schedule permits or explore the area around the stadium. As the afternoon sun begins to wane, take advantage of the nearby hiking trails for a quick adventure.
After a day of exploration, unwind with a casual dinner at a waterfront grill, where the focus is on locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you savor the flavors of Norwegian cuisine. If time permits, join a local pub to experience the vibrant nightlife of Molde and chat with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍺Beer (domestic) at a bar | $8-12 |
| 🚕Taxi start (normal tariff) | $6-10 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $80-130 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spectacular mountain and fjord scenery with easy viewpoints
- Compact, walkable town center with good outdoor access
- Strong local culture and seasonal festivals (jazz festival)
- Good base for scenic drives like Trollstigen and the Atlantic Road
- Weather can be unpredictable and often rainy
- Limited late-night entertainment compared with larger cities
- Higher prices typical of Norway for dining and accommodation
- Some attractions require a car or long drives to reach
- "Hei" - Hi / Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Tusen takk" - Thank you very much
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hvor er …?" - Where is …?
- "Hvor mye koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Jeg snakker litt norsk" - I speak a little Norwegian
- "Kan du hjelpe meg?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Molde
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic viewpoint offering unobstructed panorama of 222 peaks across the fjord—best at sunrise or sunset on clear days.
Picturesque harbor scenes with fishing boats, piers and views toward the mountains—great for golden hour and maritime shots.
Charming streets, coastal architecture and the cathedral provide atmospheric urban photography opportunities.
Short boat trips bring secluded shorelines, traditional boathouses and low-angled light across the water—excellent for seascapes.
A steep hike leads to dramatic elevated vantage points over fjords and islands; capture rugged alpine lines and cloud formations.
Food in Molde
Molde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Winter migratory cod prepared simply —steamed or pan-roasted with potatoes and vegetables. Found in Molde’s seafood restaurants when in season (Jan–Apr).
Must-Try!
Air-dried fish (often cod) sometimes served with bacon, potatoes and mustard sauce; available at traditional restaurants and cultural events.
Sautéed reindeer with juniper and cream—popular in autumn and winter, often on menus featuring local game.
Cold peeled shrimp served on bread or with mayonnaise—classic Norwegian seaside snack sold at fishmongers or cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small-scale fish stalls and local vendors near the harbor during summer and market days; try fresh shrimp, smoked salmon and quick seafood snacks.
Occasional markets selling local cheeses, breads, berries and preserves—great for picnic supplies and homemade treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Norwegians value punctuality—be on time for tours, meetings and social appointments.
Respect personal space, keep voices moderate in public transport and public areas; Norwegians prize calm and privacy.
It’s common to remove shoes when entering private homes—follow the host’s cue and offer to do so.
Littering is frowned upon; follow hiking etiquette—take waste with you, stay on marked trails and respect private land and wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Molde
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is common. Taxi drivers do not expect large tips; restaurant service charges are often included in the bill.
Card payments (contactless, chip & PIN) are widely accepted and often preferred; cash is still usable but less common. Mobile payment apps like Vipps are popular locally for person-to-person payments and some merchants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight and mild temperatures (10–20°C) make summer ideal for hiking, boating and festivals like Molde International Jazz Festival. Expect busy weekends and more services open; bring layers for cool evenings and occasional rain.
Crisp air and colourful foliage in September–October; good for photography and quieter tourism. Weather can shift quickly with windy, wet days—pack waterproof outerwear and sturdy shoes.
Cold with snow in and around mountains (temperatures often around -5 to 5°C in town). Fjord views remain dramatic; winter sports and shorter daylight hours require planning—dress warmly and be ready for icy surfaces.
Melting snow, budding nature and fewer tourists—spring offers mild temperatures but unpredictable weather. Some hiking trails still have snow early in season; bring layers and check trail conditions.
Molde at Night
Hiking in Molde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous steep hike close to town with rewarding viewpoint over fjords and islands; take proper footwear and 2–4 hours depending on route and pace.
Shorter walk or easier hike to the Varden viewpoint—great for quick panoramic shots and family-friendly outings.
Gentle coastal walks around Bolsøya island with low cliffs, beaches and views back to Molde—suitable for leisurely exploration and photography.
World-class ridge hike about 45–60 minutes drive from Molde (in Åndalsnes area); demanding but spectacular—plan a full day and check conditions.
Airports
How to reach Molde by plane.
Closest airport (~10–15 minutes by car from town center) with regional flights to Oslo and other domestic destinations—convenient for short connections.
About 1–1.5 hours by car/ferry from Molde depending on route; larger regional airport with more frequent domestic flights and car rental options.
Approximately 45–60 minutes by car and ferry depending on connections; provides regional flights and access to northern parts of Romsdal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term residents working in maritime industries, public services, tourism and small businesses—family-oriented communities with strong local ties.
Summer influx of domestic and international tourists, festival-goers and outdoor enthusiasts who come for hiking and scenic drives.
Smaller groups of students and arts-minded locals participating in festivals, music and cultural events throughout the year.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in winter in nearby mountains and groomed trails—accessible for many levels and a national pastime.
Local football clubs and community matches are common; football is widely played and followed.
Recreational fishing and coastal boating are popular year-round among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Molde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in larger cities. Many restaurants will accommodate requests with vegetable-focused dishes, salads and hearty sides; bring snacks for remote hikes.
Vegan choices are available at cafés and some newer restaurants but may require asking the staff to adapt dishes. Supermarkets carry basics like plant milks and packaged items.
Most cafés and restaurants can offer gluten-free bread and alternatives—notify staff; supermarkets stock gluten-free products.