Exploring Trondheim on foot is one of the best ways to truly connect with this Scandinavian city. Its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses in Bakklandet, and the awe-inspiring Nidaros Cathedral make for walkable adventures. One tour we’re especially keen on is the private walking tour with a local, which offers a personalized look at hidden corners and stories that big-group tours often miss. Plus, Trondheim’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, whether you want a quick highlight stroll or a deep dive into its historic neighborhoods.
We love tours that balance scenic views, history, and local flavor. The city highlights bus and walking tour combines a scenic bus ride with a walk through the city’s most impressive sites, while the power walk gets your heart rate up while covering major landmarks. Whether your interest is in architecture, history, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, there’s a Trondheim walking experience that’s perfect for you.
1. Trondheim: Private Walking Tour with a Local
At number one, the Trondheim: Private Walking Tour with a Local offers a highly flexible and intimate way to see the city. For about $65 per person, you can customize your 2 to 6-hour tour to include your personal interests and choose your meeting point. The guide acts more like a friend than a tour leader, sharing secret spots, local tips, and stories that make Trondheim come alive.
This tour is ideal if you want to avoid cookie-cutter sightseeing and instead explore Trondheim’s lesser-known corners, all while making a genuine connection with a local. Reviews highlight guides who are passionate and knowledgeable—one reviewer praised a guide who shared “tips, tricks, and secrets” you won’t find in a guidebook. The flexible timing lets you pace yourself, whether you want a quick walk or a leisurely afternoon.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want an authentic, personalized experience and the chance to ask questions about anything from Viking history to modern innovations. It’s a great investment if your schedule allows for a more tailored exploration.
2. Trondheim: City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour
At number two, the City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour offers a comprehensive half-day adventure, starting with a scenic bus ride that covers many of Trondheim’s major sights including Kristiansten Fortress and the Nidaros Cathedral. After the bus tour, you’ll get off to explore on foot, with stops at the Sverresli viewpoint and the colorful Bakklandet district.
This 3.5-hour tour offers excellent value at $90 per person, blending transportation with walking to cover both large and small sights efficiently. The itinerary includes iconic locations like the Old Town Bridge, and the guide points out stories behind each site, making history feel alive. Reviewers love the mix of views and stories, with one noting it’s a great way to “see the whole city in a relaxed way.”
Key highlights: The fortress views, the Gothic grandeur of Nidaros Cathedral, and Bakklandet’s charming houses. The tour’s structure makes it suited for travelers wanting a broad overview without sacrificing depth.
Bottom line: This is a solid choice if you prefer a guided experience that hits all the must-see spots with background stories, especially if you want a mix of transport and walking.
3. Trondheim: 2-hour City Walking Tour
Number three on the list, the 2-hour City Walking Tour is a brisk and affordable way to get a taste of Trondheim’s highlights for just $48. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful introduction. Starting at Brattøra skatepark, this tour covers the colorful Bakklandet, the Old Town Bridge, and the impressive Nidaros Cathedral—all in just two hours.
Reviews from travelers like the one praising Tammy’s clear explanations and friendly attitude show that this tour strikes a good balance of info and pace. The guide shares insights into the city’s architecture and culture, stopping for photos at the most photogenic spots. This tour is best suited for those who prefer a quick orientation or need a morning or afternoon activity.
Highlights include: The medieval cathedral, the charming wooden houses in Bakklandet, and the scenic Old Town Bridge. It’s a good value and offers a compact overview of Trondheim’s core.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick, well-paced walkthrough with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.
4. Trondheim Private Walking Tour
At number four, the Trondheim Private Walking Tour offers a personalized, in-depth look at the city for up to 15 people at around $459. This 2-hour exploration is tailored to your interests, with stops at key sites like the Old Town Bridge, Kristiansten Fortress, and Varden Utsiktspunkt.
The tour is led by an expert guide who shares detailed stories about Trondheim’s rich past—from Viking capital days to modern innovations. One reviewer called their guide “a seasoned professor,” highlighting the depth of knowledge and engaging delivery. The tour also emphasizes Trondheim’s green initiatives and art scene, giving a well-rounded perspective.
Highlights: The fortress views, the history of the Norwegian kings at Øretinget, and the panoramic vistas from Varden. This tour suits travelers looking for a private experience with a knowledgeable guide, maybe after a cruise or as a special treat. The main drawback is the price, but it’s excellent for those wanting a custom experience.
Bottom line: Best for groups or couples craving a private, deeply informative walk that covers both history and modern Trondheim.
$458.77 per group (up to 15)
5. See the city power-walk
Number five, the Power Walk, is a 1-2 hour private session designed for active travelers wanting exercise and sightseeing in one. For about $333, up to 15 people can join a guide who customizes the route to include Kristiansten Fortress, Nidaros Cathedral, and the Old Town Bridge.
This tour is perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground quickly or combine sightseeing with physical activity. It’s especially popular among cruise passengers who want a brisk walk that hits the highlights without wasting time. One reviewer noted, “We saw more than the ship tour and got a workout too.” The guide can adjust the pace and include brief stops, making it flexible.
Main features: A fast-paced, energetic experience with scenic views and landmark stops. It’s best suited for fit travelers or those who prefer active exploration.
Bottom line: Great for travelers with limited time who want to see the major sights while burning some calories.
6. Half-Day Highlights of Trondheim by Bus and City Walk
Coming in at number six, this half-day combined tour gives a good overview of Trondheim in about 3.5 hours. Starting with a two-hour bus ride, it covers Solsiden, Kristiansten Fortress, Nidaros Cathedral, and the Old Town Bridge, then transitions into walking.
This tour is ideal for those who want a broader context with some travel comfort. The itinerary includes scenic viewpoints like Sverresli and stops at major landmarks, with plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the balanced mix of bus and walk, with one saying it’s a “great way to see everything without tiring.”
Highlights: The royal residence Stiftsgården, the fortress, and the cathedral. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer guided transport combined with walking segments.
Bottom line: Perfect for a quick, rundown that covers a lot of ground with minimal walking fatigue.
7. 2 Hour City Walk through Trondheim
Rounding out the list, the 2-hour City Walk is a budget-friendly option at around $40. Starting at Pirbadet, it explores Solsiden, Bakklandet, the Old Town Bridge, and Nidaros Cathedral, with local guides sharing stories and insights. The tour is especially praised for its small group size and friendly guides like Paulo, who make the experience engaging and personal.
This walk is especially good if you want an affordable introduction to Trondheim or if you’re on a tight schedule. The route includes the colorful warehouses along the river, the charming wooden houses in Bakklandet, and scenic views from the bridge. Reviews highlight the well-paced and informative nature of the tour, with many feeling they gained “confidence walking around on their own” afterward.
Highlights: The authentic neighborhoods, iconic bridges, and the cathedral’s Gothic architecture. It’s a straightforward, friendly way to get oriented.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a personal touch and a quick overview.
How to Choose Your Best Trondheim Walking Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, schedule, and what interests you most. If you crave a personalized experience, the private local walk is unbeatable. For a balanced mix of sightseeing and storytelling, the city highlights bus and walk covers all the major sites efficiently. Active travelers will appreciate the power walk, especially if fitness is a priority.
If you’re pressed for time but want a quick, engaging introduction, the 2-hour city walk offers great value. For those wanting a rundown with minimal walking, the half-day highlights strikes a nice balance.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to ensure availability. Also, consider the weather—many tours are flexible enough to adapt if rain clouds roll in. Whatever your style, Trondheim is small enough that most of these tours can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
In summary, Trondheim offers a variety of walking experiences tailored to different interests and styles. For a personalized touch, the private local walk is hard to beat. If you want breadth and scenic views, the bus and walk tour delivers. Active travelers should consider the power walk, while budget-conscious explorers can enjoy the short city walk. No matter what you choose, Trondheim’s walkable charm makes exploring easy and rewarding.