Trondheim: City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour

Exploring Trondheim through this combined bus and walking tour offers a fantastic way to see the city’s most iconic sights without the hassle of figuring out logistics on your own. With roughly 3.5 hours of guided sightseeing, you’ll get a taste of everything, from panoramic viewpoints and historic fortresses to the enchanting streets of Bakklandet. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances convenience with the chance to walk and really soak in the atmosphere.

What we love most about this tour is the variety it offers — a comfortable bus ride to cover the major sites, followed by an engaging walk through the city’s charming neighborhoods. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience enjoyable and educational. A potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include entrance to Nidaros Cathedral, so if that’s high on your list, plan to visit separately.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Trondheim’s highlights, or travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful glimpse into the city’s history and beauty. It’s a good choice for those comfortable with a moderate pace and outdoor walking.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Overview: Combines bus and walking sections to maximize sight coverage.
• Stunning Views: Highlights include Sverresli viewpoint and Kristiansten Fortress with panoramic city vistas.
• Historic & Charming Neighborhoods: Discover the colorful houses of Bakklandet and learn about Trondheim’s past.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Lulu and Vanessa are praised for their engaging, informative commentary.
• Value for Money: For $90, you get a well-structured tour covering major sites plus a city stroll.
• Notable Absences: Entrance to Nidaros Cathedral isn’t included, but the exterior and surroundings are impressive enough on their own.

A Detailed Look at the Trondheim Highlights Tour

Starting Point: Pirbadet near the Cruise Terminal

The tour kicks off at Pirbadet, conveniently located just a few meters after the cruise terminal or airport arrivals, making it straightforward for cruise travelers. The guide and bus are waiting right there, and the meeting instructions are clear — a big plus for first-timers trying to navigate the area. If arriving by other means, following signs for Pirbadet or Hurtigruten ships will point you in the right direction.

The Bus Ride: Covering Major Landmarks

The first two hours are spent on a comfortable coach, giving you a broad overview of the city’s layout and key sights. From here, you’ll pass by Solsiden, a lively district along the river with colorful warehouses, and the historic Hotel Britannia. This area hints at Trondheim’s rich maritime history and modern vibrancy.

Then, your route takes you past the royal residence, Stiftsgården, a grand wooden building dating back to the 18th century. Though you won’t go inside, seeing it from the bus provides a sense of Trondheim’s regal connections. The guide shares stories about the royal family’s ties to the city, enriching your understanding of its importance.

Viewpoint at Sverresli: A City from Above

One of the most appreciated features of this tour is the Sverresli viewpoint, located uphill for a wide view of Trondheim and the fjord beyond. Reviewers like Irene found this stop particularly worthwhile, as it offered a “good view of the city and history of Trondheim and Norway.” It’s a perfect photo opportunity and allows you to appreciate how the city fits into its natural surroundings.

Kristiansten Fortress: A Key Historical Site

Next, the tour heads to Kristiansten Fortress, built after a devastating fire in 1681 and designed for defense. The fortress is a powerful reminder of Trondheim’s resilience, and from the top, you’ll get sweeping views of the city’s skyline. Visitors like Steven note that the fortress was “interesting,” and the guide’s explanations added depth to the experience.

Nidaros Cathedral: Exterior & City Walk

The bus then makes its way to Nidaros Cathedral, Scandinavia’s largest medieval cathedral and a highlight for many visitors. While entrance isn’t included, the exterior alone is stunning, and the guide shares stories about its construction, Gothic architecture, and significance. As Diane mentions, it’s the best-preserved Gothic building in Northern Europe, and its towering spire dominates Trondheim’s skyline.

Following the bus tour, you’ll embark on a 1.5-hour walking exploration of the city center, starting right outside the cathedral. This part of the tour is where you truly get to stroll through Trondheim’s history.

Exploring Bakklandet and the Old Town Bridge

Your walk begins at the iconic Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro), famous for its colorful warehouses and picturesque views along the river Nid. This area, known as Bakklandet, is a favorite for its quaint, brightly painted wooden houses and narrow cobblestone streets. Reviewers like Winifred praised the “beautiful photos of the warehouses,” and Joanne highlighted the charm of the “small colorful houses.”

Bakklandet also features the world’s only bicycle lift, an intriguing piece of local ingenuity, which adds a quirky touch to the neighborhood. Walking along Kjøpmannsgata from the bridge, you’ll also see the Market Square (Torvet), where the statue of Viking King Olav Tryggvason stands tall, symbolizing Trondheim’s Viking roots.

Stiftsgården & the City’s Royal Heritage

Next, the tour takes you past Stiftsgården, the official residence of the Norwegian royal family. Its splendid courtyard and gardens are open to the public since 1997, allowing visitors to peek into royal life and appreciate the grand architecture. The guide shares stories about Trondheim’s regal history, making this a highlight for history buffs.

Final Stops and Return

As the walk winds down, you’ll pass by Rockheim, Norway’s national museum of popular music, offering a taste of Trondheim’s modern cultural scene. The tour concludes back at Pirbadet, where you can relax after your sightseeing with a walk along the waterfront or explore local cafes.

Practical Details & Value

The entire experience costs $90 per person, which, considering the coverage of major highlights, panoramic views, and guided insights, offers solid value. The tour combines transportation, expert commentary, and walking exploration, making it accessible and engaging.

While entrance to Nidaros Cathedral isn’t included, most visitors agree that the exterior and nearby surroundings are worth seeing. The guided walk enhances your appreciation of the city’s layout and history, especially given the knowledgeable guides — reviewers like Vanessa and Lulu received high praise for their warmth, humor, and storytelling skills.

The tour duration of 3.5 hours strikes a good balance — long enough to see a lot but short enough to keep it lively and not overwhelming. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an overview that’s both comprehensive and relaxed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad snapshot of Trondheim’s most iconic sights. It’s also great for cruise travelers with tight schedules who want to maximize their limited time ashore. The guided format suits those who appreciate informative commentary and prefer not to navigate the city on their own.

However, if your main goal is to explore inside Nidaros Cathedral or visit specific museums, you might want to supplement this tour with dedicated entries or additional days in Trondheim.

The Sum Up

This Trondheim City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour delivers a well-rounded introduction to one of Norway’s most charming cities. It strikes a good balance between comfort and exploration, with highlights like Kristiansten Fortress, Sverresli Viewpoint, and the colorful streets of Bakklandet**. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, adding value to each stop.

For travelers who enjoy panoramic vistas, historical storytelling, and a leisurely stroll through picturesque neighborhoods, this tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Trondheim’s soul. The combination of bus and foot allows you to see the best of both worlds — sweeping views and intimate city moments — making it a worthwhile choice for those short on time but eager to experience the essence of this Norwegian gem.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, this tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves walking and some uneven terrain.

Does the tour include entrance to Nidaros Cathedral?
No, entrance fees to Nidaros Cathedral are not included, so you’ll only see the exterior and the surrounding area.

How long is the walking part of the tour?
The walking segment lasts about 1.5 hours and covers key attractions like Bakklandet, Old Town Bridge, and the Market Square.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring warm and outdoor clothing, comfortable shoes for walking, and a child safety seat if needed.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, so make sure to specify your preferred language when booking if possible.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the itinerary may change depending on weather and road conditions, but alternative arrangements will be made if necessary.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for Pirbadet, just after leaving the security area, opposite Havnegata 11. The guide and bus will be waiting there.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your trip plans.