Trondheim offers a wealth of sights that make for memorable city tours. With its compact size and stunning landmarks like Nidaros Cathedral and Bakklandet, it’s an ideal place to explore on foot or by bus. What stands out is the city’s blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy, showcased by colorful wooden houses, historic bridges, and scenic viewpoints. We especially like the local-guided walking tour, which offers a personal touch and insider stories, and the bus and walking combination, providing panoramic views combined with in-depth city highlights.
The variety of tours listed below reflects different interests and schedules—whether you prefer a quick overview or a more active adventure. From a two-hour city walk to a half-day sightseeing bus and walk tour, each offers a unique experience. For those wanting a dynamic way to see Trondheim, the power-walking tour with a personal trainer is a standout, while the bus tours provide convenient access to the city’s top sights. Check out the offerings below to find the best fit for your trip.
1. Trondheim: Discover the city of kings with a local guide
At number one, this 2-hour guided tour is perfect for travelers eager to get an authentic feel of Trondheim. Led by a local guide, this tour takes you past Nidaros Cathedral—the largest medieval cathedral in Scandinavia—and through the charming Bakklandet neighborhood with its colorful wooden houses. Your guide will share stories about the city’s legends and history, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
A highlight is crossing the Old Town Bridge, affectionately called the “happiness portal,” and exploring the lively Solsiden area, once a shipyard and now a bustling neighborhood. The tour also includes visits to Stiftsgarden, Scandinavia’s largest wooden palace, and concludes at Torvet, the central square with the statue of Olav Tryggvason. Entrance tickets for the cathedral are not included, which keeps the price accessible at just over $52 per person.
Based on reviews, this tour consistently scores a perfect 5.0/5, with visitors praising the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Maëlle, who makes the city’s history come alive. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed introduction to Trondheim with an engaging local touch.
Bottom line: A friendly, well-paced tour for first-timers who want to see the main sights and learn the stories behind them in an easy 2-hour stroll.
2. Trondheim: City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour
For around $90, this 3.5-hour combined bus and walking tour offers a rundown of Trondheim’s top sights. It’s perfect if you prefer a bit of everything—scenic viewpoints, historical landmarks, and lively neighborhoods—in one outing.
The journey starts with a bus ride from Pirbadet, passing by Britannia Hotel and the royal summer residence, Stiftsgarden. You’ll stop at the Sverresli viewpoint for a panoramic view of the city and fjord, then walk through Kristiansten Fortress—a 17th-century fortification that offers spectacular vistas. The tour continues with an in-depth visit to the Nidaros Cathedral, along with quick stops at the Old Town Bridge and the vibrant Bakklandet district.
This tour is a great choice for travelers who want the convenience of a bus but also enjoy exploring on foot. It boasts a solid 4.3/5 rating from 92 reviews, with many visitors noting the excellent guide, the scenic stops, and the well-organized itinerary.
Bottom line: A balanced, efficient way to see Trondheim’s highlights, combining scenic views with short walks, suited for those who like a structured overview.
3. See the city power-walk
If you’re short on time but want a high-energy, customized exploration, this private power-walking tour is an excellent choice. Designed for groups of up to 15, it offers flexibility and exercise rolled into one—covering major landmarks like Kristiansten Fortress, Nidaros Cathedral, and the Old Town Bridge.
Led by a personal trainer or trained guide, this 1 to 2-hour tour is perfect if you’re keen on staying active during your city visit. The guide can tailor the pace and include short stops or a final destination of your choosing, making it an adaptable option for your fitness level and interests. Starting outside Pirbadet, the route offers views of the fjord breeze, the bicycle lift in Bakklandet, and the riverbanks.
Guests have appreciated the fun and efficient workout, with reviews noting how much ground they covered in a short time. The price, around $332.97 per group, makes it a good value for families or groups seeking a private, personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want to see the main sights while getting a good workout, with customization for your pace and interests.
4. Half-Day Highlights of Trondheim by Bus and City Walk
This 3.5-hour tour combines the comfort of bus travel with the intimacy of a walking exploration. Starting at Pirbadet, it takes you through Solsiden, past Stiftsgarden, and to panoramic spots like Sverresli and Kristiansten Fortress.
You’ll enjoy a photo stop at the fortress and have time to appreciate views over the river Nid. The walking component takes you through Bakklandet and past the Nidaros Cathedral, allowing for a closer look at Trondheim’s most iconic sights. The itinerary also includes a stop at Torvet, the lively central square.
Guests describe this tour as a good, quick overview, with many noting the friendly guides and the opportunity to see both the scenic outskirts and central highlights in one go. The tour’s value is boosted by its flexible mix of transport and walking, though the reviews suggest it’s better suited to those who don’t mind a longer half-day commitment.
Bottom line: A practical, well-rounded tour for travelers who want a taste of everything without a full day’s commitment.
5. 2 Hour City Walk through Trondheim
For budget-conscious visitors, this 2-hour city walk offers an affordable way to explore Trondheim. Starting in front of Pirbadet, the tour takes you through Solsiden, Bakklandet, and over the Old Town Bridge, providing great views of the colorful warehouses.
Your guide will also show you Nidaros Cathedral (ticket not included) and the market square, giving you a snapshot of Trondheim’s key neighborhoods and landmarks. The tour emphasizes local architecture and the history behind the city’s famous sites, making it a solid choice for those who want a brief but informative walk.
Rated 4.0/5 from five reviews, travelers appreciate the pleasant guide and the well-paced route. It’s especially suitable for those who plan to explore further on their own afterward or prefer a shorter, budget-friendly experience.
Bottom line: A concise, inexpensive tour ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview.
6. City Bus Tour in Trondheim, Norway
This 2-hour bus tour offers a straightforward way to see Trondheim from the comfort of a coach. Starting at Pirbadet, the route covers Solsiden, Stiftsgarden, and the Sverresli viewpoint—all with minimal walking needed. The highlight is the ascent to Kristiansten Fortress, where you get sweeping views of the city and fjord.
The tour then passes by the Old Town Bridge and the Nidaros Cathedral, providing quick stops with opportunities for photos. The reviews (scoring 3.5/5 from 13 reviews) mention the friendly guides and the efficient route, but some note the need for clearer instructions on where to meet, especially for cruise passengers.
This tour is great for travelers who prefer bus comfort over walking, especially if mobility is an issue. It balances sightseeing with convenience, making it a solid choice for those pressed for time or traveling with children.
Bottom line: A relaxed, accessible tour best suited for those who want a quick overview without the physical effort.
How to Choose the Best Trondheim City Tour
When picking a city tour in Trondheim, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest level. If you want an engaging, personal experience, the local-guided walk (Discover Trondheim with a local guide) is hard to beat. For those seeking a rundown with scenic vistas, the bus and walking tour (City Highlights) offers great value.
Active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with exercise might love the power-walk (See the city power-walk). Budget travelers will appreciate the short city walk (2-hour city walk), while those preferring comfort may find the bus tour (City Bus Tour) better suited.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and guide.
Final Thoughts
Trondheim’s compact size and rich architectural heritage mean that nearly any tour can give you a meaningful taste of the city. For a relaxed intro, the local-guided walk is excellent, while the bus and walk combo suits those who want scenic viewpoints plus in-depth exploration. If you’re pressed for time or prefer to stay active, the power-walking tour provides a personalized, energetic option.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an active explorer, or just looking to tick off the must-see sights efficiently, Trondheim’s tours have something for you. Consider your priorities, book early, and enjoy discovering this fascinating Norwegian city.