Exploring Trondheim on foot is one of the best ways to absorb its unique charm. This city offers a mix of old-world timber houses, impressive landmarks like Nidaros Cathedral, and lively neighborhoods such as Bakklandet—all easily enjoyed on a good walk. We especially like the private walking tour with a local, which puts you in touch with passionate residents, uncovering hidden corners and stories that large tours often miss. If you’re short on time but want a quick overview, the power walk combines exercise with sightseeing, perfect for active travelers. For a comprehensive experience that combines transportation and walking, the city highlights bus and walking tour covers major sights with great views, including Kristiansten Fortress and the Old Town Bridge.
Trondheim offers a variety of tour styles—from private, customized walks to group excursions with panoramic viewpoints—ensuring there’s a perfect option no matter your interests or schedule. Whether you’re seeking an intimate experience, a vigorous workout, or a broad overview, the options below will help you make an informed choice.
1. Trondheim: Private Walking Tour with a Local
At number 1, this private walking tour with a local stands out for its personalized approach. Costing $65 per person and lasting between 2 and 6 hours, it offers a flexible, tailor-made experience. You’ll meet a passionate local guide at a centrally located spot and then explore Trondheim’s lesser-known corners, historic sites, and stories that textbooks often overlook.
What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic connection. Your guide can customize the itinerary based on your particular interests—be it architecture, medieval history, or modern Trondheim. The guide shares tips, tricks, and secrets that are not available in standard guidebooks. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more personal, immersive experience and for those who want to avoid cookie-cutter itineraries. Reviews praise the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 105 reviews.
Bottom Line: For those who love flexibility and genuine local insights, this private tour offers the most tailored experience in Trondheim.
2. Trondheim: City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is the city highlights bus and walking tour, which combines the best of both worlds. For $90, you get 3.5 hours of sightseeing, starting with a bus ride that covers major landmarks like Kristiansten Fortress, Nidaros Cathedral, and the colorful Bakklandet neighborhood. The tour then transitions to walking segments, giving you time to explore these sites more deeply.
You’ll enjoy stunning views from Sverresli viewpoint and have plenty of photo opportunities at key stops like the Old Town Bridge. The itinerary includes a sequence of stops—Utsikten for scenic panoramas, Kristiansten Fortress for history, and the cathedral for awe-inspiring architecture—making it perfect for travelers who want a broad overview without the hassle of planning each stop. The guide will take you through Trondheim’s story in a lively way, with reviews noting the tour is well-paced and comprehensive.
Bottom Line: This tour suits visitors who want a structured, all-in-one experience of Trondheim’s highlights with great vistas and historical insights.
3. Trondheim Private Walking Tour
For around $459, the private walking tour provides a very in-depth look at Trondheim over roughly two hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, often with a background in academia or local history, this experience offers a carefully curated route through the city’s main sights and hidden corners.
This tour stands out for its focus on history and storytelling. You’ll learn about Trondheim’s role as Norway’s Viking capital, the history of the Nidaros Cathedral, and its significance as the seat of the archbishop. The guide also shares stories about the Nazi occupation, the Battle of Kalvskinnet, and the city’s green initiatives. It’s ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of Trondheim’s past and present without feeling rushed. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s extensive knowledge, with one describing the experience as “educational and entertaining,” rating it 5/5.
Bottom Line: Best for history lovers or travelers wanting a personalized, detailed introduction—if budget permits.
4. See the city power-walk
Number 4 is a lively power-walking tour, designed for travelers who want to combine exercise with sightseeing. Costing $332.97 for up to 15 people, it’s an energetic way to see Trondheim’s main sights in about 1 to 2 hours. Led by a personal trainer, the route includes Kristiansten Fortress, Nidaros Cathedral, Old Town Bridge, and Bakklandet, with options to include short stops or finish at a personalized destination.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want an active way to explore the city’s highlights. Reviews mention how the guide makes the experience fun and informative, and many appreciate seeing the city from a physically engaging perspective. The tour can be customized to your preferred pace, making it suitable for those who want a brisk walk or jog. The inclusion of collective exercise makes it an excellent choice for fitness-minded travelers.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a workout, with flexibility to customize.
5. Half-Day Highlights of Trondheim by Bus and City Walk
Number 5 is a well-rounded half-day combined tour, costing about $89.73 for 3.5 hours. It begins with a two-hour bus ride from Pirbadet, taking you past Solsiden, the Royal residence, and the fortress before stopping for panoramic views at Sverresli. Afterward, it transitions into a walking portion covering Nidaros Cathedral, the Old Town Bridge, and Bakklandet.
This tour offers a balance of transportation and walking, making it great for those who want a broad overview without dedicating an entire day. Reviewers highlight its efficiency and the scenic viewpoints, especially the panoramic stops. The guided commentary helps you understand Trondheim’s significance, especially in relation to its architecture and history.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for visitors who want a quick, comprehensive look at Trondheim’s highlights with minimal effort.
6. 2 Hour City Walk through Trondheim
Finally, the 2-hour city walk is a budget-friendly, straightforward option costing just about $39.53 per person. Starting in front of Pirbadet, it takes you through Solsiden, Bakklandet, the Old Town Bridge, and Nidaros Cathedral, with each stop lasting around 10 minutes.
While shorter and less detailed, this walk is perfect if you’re tight on time or prefer a quick overview. Guides tend to be personable and knowledgeable, and reviews note the walk is well-paced and informative. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Trondheim without committing to a longer tour or paying high prices.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, affordable introduction—especially if you’re passing through or have limited time.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Trondheim
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want an intimate, personalized experience, the private with a local is unbeatable. For a broad overview that includes transportation, the city highlights bus and walking tour offers great value. Active travelers should look at the power walk, while history aficionados may prefer the private historical tour.
Timing also matters. The half-day highlights is perfect for cruise passengers or those with limited time, whereas the 2-hour walk suits budget-conscious travelers. Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, when Trondheim’s attractions are busiest.
Final Thoughts
From tailored private walks to brisk power tours, Trondheim offers a variety of ways to explore its streets. If you’re after an in-depth, personal experience, the private local tour is hard to beat. For those tight on time but eager to see the highlights, the half-day bus and walk or the 2-hour walk deliver excellent value. Active travelers will enjoy the power walk, which combines exercise with sightseeing.
No matter your preference, booking early and choosing the right tour can make your visit to Trondheim both memorable and enriching. Happy exploring!