Molde, Norway Travel Guide

Discover Molde: Norway's City of Roses, where panoramic fjord views, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes create an unforgettable travel experience.

Molde, often referred to as the City of Roses, is a charming town nestled along the coast of Norway's Romsdal Peninsula. The city is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, with rolling hills, lush gardens, and stunning fjord views. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramas from the Varden viewpoint, which offers a sweeping vista of 222 snow-capped mountain peaks. In the heart of Molde, you will find the Romsdal Museum, one of Norway's largest folk museums. Here, you can explore traditional wooden buildings, learn about local history, and experience cultural events. The city's rich musical heritage is showcased during the annual Moldejazz Festival, one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals, attracting world-class performers and enthusiasts alike. Nature lovers will find Molde a paradise with its close proximity to the famous Atlantic Road, a scenic drive that takes you across a series of islands and bridges with dramatic ocean views. Hiking enthusiasts can venture into the surrounding mountains for trails that offer both challenges and rewards in the form of stunning natural beauty. Whether you're strolling through the rose gardens, enjoying local cuisine, or exploring the natural wonders, Molde offers a serene and enriching experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Molde.

Visit in July for the Moldejazz Festival to experience world-class jazz performances.
Head to the Varden viewpoint for the best panoramic views of the fjords and mountains.
Take a drive along the Atlantic Road, one of the most scenic routes in the world.
Explore the Romsdal Museum to learn about local history and culture.
Pack a good pair of hiking boots to enjoy the numerous trails around Molde.

Explore Molde: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Molde

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Gudbrandsjuvet

Explore the enchanting Gudbrandsjuvet gorge in Norway, a breathtaking destination filled with stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.

4.6

Rampestreken

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rampestreken, a scenic hiking attraction in Åndalsnes, Norway, with stunning views of the Romsdal Valley.

4.7

Romsdal Museum

Explore the rich culture and history of Norway at Romsdal Museum, featuring traditional buildings, engaging exhibitions, and beautiful landscapes.

4.5

Moldebadet

Experience the excitement of Moldebadet, a premier water park in Norway, offering thrilling slides, relaxing pools, and family-friendly fun for all ages.

4.2

Best landmarks in Molde

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Egon Molde

Discover Egon Molde, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Molde, Norway.

3.9

Kviltorp Camping

Discover the beauty of Norway at Kviltorp Camping, an ideal RV park offering stunning views, modern amenities, and exciting outdoor adventures.

4.5

Molde Fjordhotell

Discover the beauty of Norway at Molde Fjordhotell, a serene hotel offering breathtaking fjord views, fine dining, and perfect accommodations for relaxation.

4.4

Atlanterhavsveien

Explore Atlanterhavsveien, Norway's stunning coastal road, where breathtaking landscapes and iconic bridges create an unforgettable travel experience.

4.5

Best restaurants in Molde

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Egon Molde

Discover Egon Molde: where local flavors meet global cuisine in a cozy atmosphere perfect for every traveler.

3.9

Molde Fjordhotell

Discover breathtaking fjord views and exquisite seafood at Molde Fjordhotell - your perfect retreat in Norway's natural beauty.

4.4

McDonald's Roseby

Discover delicious fast food at McDonald's Roseby in Molde - perfect for families and tourists craving a quick bite!

3.7

Eventyrlige Skaret - Skarstua

Experience exquisite local cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Eventyrlige Skaret - Skarstua in Molde.

4.2

Best bars in Molde

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Egon Molde

Experience the culinary delights of Egon Molde, where local flavors meet stunning fjord views in a cozy atmosphere.

3.9

Molde Fjordhotell

Discover the breathtaking beauty and culinary delights of Molde Fjordhotell, your gateway to Norway's stunning coastline.

4.4

Glass Resturant - Bar

Experience the best of Molde's culinary scene at Glass Restaurant - Bar, featuring seafood, pizza, cocktails, and stunning fjord views.

4.4

Tap & Cork

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tap & Cork in Molde, Norway - a perfect blend of local charm and global flavors in a welcoming bar atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Molde

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Glass Resturant - Bar

Discover the culinary delights of Glass Restaurant - Bar in Molde, where exquisite seafood and artisanal pizzas meet a vibrant cocktail experience.

4.4

Tap & Cork

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Molde at Tap & Cork, a bar offering a diverse selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

4.5

Rød Bare Blå

Experience the flavors of Norway at Rød Bare Blå, a charming restaurant in Molde, offering a menu rooted in local traditions and seasonal ingredients.

3.8

Köl

Experience the best of meat and seafood dining at Köl, a culinary treasure in Molde, Norway.

4.2

Best shops in Molde

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AMFI Roseby

Discover shopping bliss at AMFI Roseby, Molde’s vibrant retail hub with diverse stores, dining options, and family-friendly amenities.

4.1

Amfi Roseby Storsenter

Explore Amfi Roseby Storsenter, Molde's vibrant shopping mall with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Moldetorget

Explore Moldetorget: Your ultimate shopping and dining experience in the heart of Molde, Norway, blending local culture with modern conveniences.

4.0

Molde Sentrum AS

Explore Molde Sentrum AS for a delightful shopping experience in the heart of Molde, Norway, filled with local culture and delicious dining options.

4.2

Explore Molde on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Molde, mapped for you.

Molde Essentials

Molde is accessible by air, sea, and road. The nearest airport is Molde Airport, Årø (MOL), which connects to several major cities in Norway and some international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the city center. Molde is also accessible by ferry from various coastal cities, including Bergen and Ålesund. For those traveling by car, the E39 highway connects Molde with other parts of Norway.
Molde has a well-developed public transportation system including buses and taxis. The local bus network is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the scenic routes and nearby attractions at your own pace. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, especially during the summer months.
The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Molde, including in taxis, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout the city. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in more remote areas where card payments might not be accepted.
Molde is generally a very safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. Petty theft can occur, so it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in popular tourist spots and public transport.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used to reach police, fire, and medical services. Molde has a well-equipped hospital and several clinics for medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other potential issues.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally acceptable. Religion: Do show respect when visiting churches and religious sites. Remove hats and speak in a low voice. Public Transport: Do buy your ticket before boarding and validate it. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like bacalao and klippfisk. Don't leave food on your plate, as it is considered wasteful.
To experience Molde like a local, visit the Romsdal Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Attend the Molde International Jazz Festival if you're visiting in July. Take a stroll along the Molde Panorama for breathtaking views of the Romsdal Alps and fjords. Engage with locals at cafes and markets; they are generally friendly and willing to share stories about their city. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike in the nearby mountains for some stunning natural scenery.

When is the best time to visit Molde?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Molde

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Molde. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHei
  [hay]
- GoodbyeHa det
  [hah deh]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [vair soh goo]
- Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oonskuld]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vohr-dan har doo deh]
- Fine. And you?Fint. Og du?
  [feent. oh doo]
- Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snah-ker doo engelsk]
- I don't understandJeg skjønner ikke
  [yay shooner ee-teh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, takk
  [yay veell yern-eh seh meh-nyen, tahk]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yay spee-ser ee-teh shøtt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, takk
  [yay veell yern-eh beh-tah-leh, tahk]
- Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå bort!
  [goh bohrt]
- Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring poh-lee-tee-eh]
- Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leh-geh]
- I'm lostJeg er borte
  [yay air bohr-teh]
- I'm illJeg er syk
  [yay air sook]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...
  [yay veell shø-peh]
- I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [yay bah-reh sehr]
- How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vohr myeh kohs-ter deh]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kahn doo sehn-keh pree-sehn]
- What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [vah air klok-kah]
- It's one o'clockKlokka er ett
  [klok-kah air eht]
- Half past (10)Halv ti
  [hahlv tee]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonEttermiddag
  [et-ter-mee-dahg]
- EveningKveld
  [kvehld]
- YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
- TodayI dag
  [ee dahg]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-gen]
- 1En
  [ehn]
- 2To
  [too]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Fire
  [fee-reh]
- 5Fem
  [fem]
- 6Seks
  [sehks]
- 7Sju
  [shoo]
- 8Åtte
  [oh-teh]
- 9Ni
  [nee]
- 10Ti
  [tee]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vohr air en/et]
- What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [vah air ah-dres-sehn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kahn doo vee-seh may (poh kahr-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [nahr gohr nes-teh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [ehn bee-leht (teel)]

History of Molde

Molde, often referred to as the 'Town of Roses,' was founded as a trading post in the 15th century. Its strategic location along the Romsdalsfjord made it an important hub for commerce and fishing. The settlement gradually expanded as more people were drawn to its fertile lands and fishing opportunities.
One of the most significant events in Molde's history is the Great Fire of 1916, which devastated much of the town. Over one-third of the buildings were destroyed, leaving many residents homeless. The fire marked a turning point, as the reconstruction phase led to the modernization of the town's infrastructure and architecture.
During World War II, Molde played a crucial role as a strategic location for both the Allies and the Axis powers. The town was heavily bombed by German forces in 1940, leading to significant destruction. Despite the hardships, the local population showed resilience and courage, and Molde eventually became a symbol of Norwegian resistance. King Haakon VII and the Norwegian government fled to Molde before escaping to the United Kingdom.
After World War II, Molde underwent significant reconstruction and development. The town benefited from the Marshall Plan, which provided financial aid for rebuilding. This period saw the growth of industries such as shipbuilding, as well as the expansion of educational and cultural institutions.
Founded in 1961, the Molde International Jazz Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals in Europe. Held annually in July, the festival attracts world-renowned musicians and jazz enthusiasts from around the globe. It has become a cornerstone of Molde's cultural identity, reflecting the town's vibrant artistic community.
Molde's nickname, the 'Town of Roses,' is derived from its beautiful rose gardens that bloom throughout the town. This horticultural tradition dates back to the early 20th century when local residents began cultivating roses extensively. Today, the roses are a symbol of Molde's natural beauty and community spirit.
In recent decades, Molde has continued to thrive as a center for culture, education, and tourism. The town is home to several institutions of higher learning, including Molde University College. Its picturesque landscapes, including the famous Molde Panorama with views of 222 mountain peaks, draw visitors year-round. Molde's blend of historical significance and modern amenities make it a unique and appealing destination.