Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale

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Recommended by 99% of reviewers

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3 hours (approx.)

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Overview

See Copenhagen’s top sights by foot and ferry in a small group with a local guide.
This guided walking tour of Copenhagen includes highlights, hidden gems, and a 25-minute ferry ride mid-tour — a scenic break through the city’s historic canals.

We begin with a 1 hour walk past major landmarks and lesser-known corners, before boarding the electric harbor ferry. Your guide shares local stories, history, and points out must-see sights along the water.

After the ferry ride, we continue for another hour on foot, passing the beautiful star-shaped 1600s fortress and the Little Mermaid. A short café stop offers time to rest and chat before we reach Amalienborg Palace.

The 9:00 AM tour ends with the full Changing of the Guards at 12.00.

The 1:00 PM tour includes a smaller version of the Changing of the Guards.

If the ferry is full or out of service (rare, mostly on weekends), we follow the scenic walking route along the canal instead — still covering the full route, just with 2 extra km.

What's Included

Personal recommendations
Harbor ferry ride through the canals included
Guide

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Bernstorffsgade
1651 København, Denmark

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Amalienborg Slotsplads
København, Denmark

The tour ends at Amalienborg Castle, near the metro and just a 10-minute walk from Kongens Nytorv and Nyhavn. On the 09:00 and 09:30 tours, you’ll arrive just in time to see the Changing of the Guards – a memorable way to finish!

What To Expect

Copenhagen Central Station

We begin at Copenhagen Central Station, a historic and bustling hub that connects the city. Let’s dive into its story and set the tone for our exploration.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Tivoli Gardens

We’ll stop outside the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, and I’ll share its fascinating history and its role in inspiring Walt Disney.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Glyptoteket – a glimpse of grandeur from the outside We’ll stop by the impressive Glyptoteket, one of Copenhagen’s most beautiful buildings. Founded by Carlsberg’s founder Carl Jacobsen, this museum is known not only for its world-class art collection, but also for its stunning architecture. From the outside, you’ll get a great view of its grand façade and the glass dome of the tropical winter garden inside.A quick but memorable stop that blends culture, history, and a touch of elegance.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Christiansborg Slot

Together, we’ll explore the history and importance of Christiansborg Palace, the seat of Danish democracy. I’ll reveal tales of kings, queens, and modern politics.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Det Kgl. Bibliotek

We conclude this part of our tour at the iconic Black Diamond, a stunning piece of modern architecture that serves as a cultural and literary hub for Copenhagen. From here, we’ll continue our journey with a scenic ride on the harbor bus, offering unique views of the city from the water.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Havnebussen

The tour includes a scenic and relaxing ride on Copenhagen's electric harbor ferry, offering great views as we sail through the city’s canals. On weekdays, we almost always have the ferry to ourselves.As it’s a public ferry, seats can’t be reserved, and on weekends it can occasionally be full or canceled. If that happens, we simply walk the scenic route instead. To stay on schedule for the Changing of the Guards on the 09:00 AM tour, we shorten the route slightly elsewhere, and the total walking distance becomes approx. 6–7 km instead of 5.In this case, the tour includes a few different – but equally great – highlights, such as iconic Nyhavn and all the main sights normally seen from the ferry.

25 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Børsen (Pass By)

As we cruise through the canals, we’ll pass by the Old Stock Exchange (Børsen) – one of Copenhagen’s most historic buildings. Built in the early 1600s, it was famous for its distinctive dragon-spire roof. Sadly, in April 2024, a devastating fire severely damaged the building, but restoration efforts are already underway to bring this architectural gem back to life.

Copenhagen Opera House

As we cruise through Copenhagen’s scenic canals, you’ll get a fantastic view of the Royal Danish Opera House – an architectural masterpiece sitting proudly by the waterfront. Designed by renowned architect Henning Larsen, this modern landmark is one of the most expensive opera houses ever built and a true icon of Danish design.

2 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Nyhavn

As we cruise through the canals, we’ll get a brief but beautiful stop at Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s most iconic harbor. With its colorful 17th-century townhouses and lively atmosphere, this historic waterfront is a must-see – and the perfect spot to return to after the tour! ✨

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Little Mermaid

Hear the story of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale and how this statue became a symbol of Copenhagen.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Gefionspringvandet

Gefion Fountain is one of Copenhagen’s most impressive landmarks, located near the harbor and Kastellet fortress. This stunning fountain depicts the Norse goddess Gefion driving a group of oxen, symbolizing the legendary creation of Zealand. A must-see stop, it combines mythology, history, and beautiful craftsmanship, making it a perfect spot for photos and storytelling during your tour.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kastellet

As part of our walk, we’ll explore Kastellet, one of the best-preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe. This historic site, built in the 1600s, is still an active military area but also a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Copenhagen. As we stroll through its scenic pathways, you’ll see the iconic windmill, historic barracks, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the resident swans.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Churchillparken

Churchill Park is a quiet green oasis in central Copenhagen, dedicated to the memory of Danish resistance fighters during World War II. Located next to the historic Kastellet fortress and near the Little Mermaid, the park features monuments honoring those who fought for Denmark's freedom, including a statue of Winston Churchill. It’s a meaningful stop for those interested in history, set in peaceful and scenic surroundings.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kastelsmøllen

Kastellet, one of Europe’s best-preserved star fortresses, is a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Built in the 17th century, this historic military site offers a peaceful escape with its grassy ramparts and scenic surroundings.On this stop, we’ll walk along the fortress walls, taking in panoramic views of the area and enjoying the serene atmosphere. As we stroll, we’ll see Kastelmøllen, a charming old windmill that stands as a reminder of the fortress’s utilitarian past.Kastellet is more than just a historical site – it’s a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, where the past meets the present in one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque settings.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Frederiks Kirke (Marmorkirken)

Marvel at the breathtaking Marble Church, officially known as Frederik's Church, an architectural gem in Copenhagen. Completed in 1894 after more than 150 years of construction, this iconic landmark features one of the largest domes in Europe, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.As we pause here, you'll hear stories of its fascinating history, including the challenges of its construction and its significance in Denmark's royal and religious heritage. From this spot, you’ll also enjoy stunning views of Amalienborg Palace, the royal family's residence, just a short walk away.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Amalienborg Museum

Step into the heart of Danish royalty at Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family since 1794. This stunning complex consists of four identical Rococo-style palaces surrounding an elegant octagonal courtyard, with the equestrian statue of King Frederik V as its centerpiece.As we explore the area, you’ll learn about the history of the monarchy, the daily routines of the royal family, and the significance of the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, which takes place here every day at 12.00. From the courtyard, enjoy beautiful views of the Marble Church and the waterfront, showcasing Copenhagen's blend of history and charm.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Changing of her Majesty's guard at Amalienborg Castle

End Point: Amalienborg Palace – Changing of the GuardsIf you join the 09:00 AM tour, we conclude at Amalienborg Palace just as the full Changing of the Guards begins at 12:00 PM. You'll have the perfect spot to witness this iconic royal tradition as the guards march into the palace square, sometimes accompanied by the Royal Danish Band.If you join the 1:00 PM tour, we end at the same location, where you’ll still experience a smaller version of the guard change as the new shift quietly relieves the old. While not as ceremonial as the noon event, it offers a more peaceful and authentic glimpse into daily royal tradition.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: Will I get seasick on Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023