Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards

See Copenhagen the way you would with a local friend. Your host is a Copenhagener who has lived here for many years, the group is never more than 12, and the stories follow what your group is curious about. We walk past Tivoli, Christiansborg Palace and the Black Diamond, then hop on the public canal ferry that Copenhageners use every day, not a tourist boat. From the water you see the Old Stock Exchange and the Opera House. Back on land we visit the Little Mermaid, Kastellet and the Marble Church, stop at a café, and finish at Amalienborg Palace for the Changing of the Guard. Along the way you get personal recommendations, from where locals eat to what to do tomorrow. A conversation, not just a lecture. Good to know: about 5 km of walking with the ferry. The ferry is public transport, so seats can't be reserved. If it is full or not running, we walk the scenic canal route instead (about 7 km in total) and still see every stop. Not suitable for those with walking difficulties.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   5 min

   We meet inside Copenhagen Central Station (Banegårdspladsen 7), in the center of the main hall, under the round analog clock on the central pillar, right next to the 7-Eleven and the ticket machines. Our hosts don't carry umbrellas or signs: stand by the pillar at least 10 minutes before the start, and your host will find you with the guest list.

2. 2

   Tivoli Gardens

   5 min

   Tivoli Gardens – where history, magic, and inspiration meet We’ll stop outside the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks, and a true cultural landmark in the heart of Copenhagen. Founded in 1843, Tivoli has captivated visitors for generations with its timeless charm, twinkling lights, and romantic atmosphere — a place where locals and travelers alike come to feel a touch of wonder. From the outside, you’ll get a glimpse of the historic entrance and ornate pavilions, and I’ll share the fascinating story of how Tivoli inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland after his visit here in the 1950s. Beyond the rides, Tivoli represents the very essence of Danish “hygge”, creativity, and design — a living symbol of how Copenhagen blends tradition, art, and joy into everyday life. A short stop, but one that captures the city’s playful soul and its enduring love for imagination.

3. 3

   Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

   5 min

   Glyptoteket – art, architecture, and elegance in the heart of Copenhagen We’ll pause outside the magnificent Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, one of Copenhagen’s most stunning landmarks. Founded by Carl Jacobsen, the visionary behind Carlsberg, this museum is celebrated not only for its world-class art collection but also for its impressive architecture and iconic glass dome. From the outside, you’ll admire the building’s elegant façade, rich details, and the lush tropical winter garden visible beneath the dome, a perfect blend of culture, history, and beauty right in the city center. A short stop, but one that captures the grandeur and creative spirit of Copenhagen.

4. 4

   Christiansborg Slot

   10 min

   Christiansborg Palace – power, politics, and royal history Together, we’ll explore the fascinating story of Christiansborg Palace, a place that has shaped Denmark for more than 800 years. Built on the ruins of the city’s first castle, this site has been home to kings, queens, and politicians, and today it houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Royal Reception Rooms. Standing here, you’re quite literally at the heart of Danish democracy. I’ll share how the palace has burned down three times, each time rebuilt to reflect the spirit of its era, from royal grandeur to modern politics. You’ll hear about royal ceremonies, power struggles, and the everyday workings of a monarchy that learned to share power with the people. A stop that perfectly blends royal history, architecture, and modern-day democracy, showing how Copenhagen’s past and present coexist in one remarkable place.

5. 5

   Det Kgl. Bibliotek

   5 min

   The Black Diamond: where culture meets the waterfront We’ll conclude this part of our walk at the Black Diamond, one of Copenhagen’s most striking pieces of modern architecture. With its sleek black granite façade reflecting the harbor, the building stands as both a cultural landmark and the home of the Royal Danish Library, a meeting point for art, literature, and local life. Here, history meets innovation. Locals come to study, attend concerts, and enjoy the waterfront cafés, while the building itself mirrors the city’s blend of tradition and modern design. From here, we’ll continue with a scenic canal and harbor tour, boarding the public canal ferry for a relaxed ride along the city’s waterways. This part of the journey offers unique views of Copenhagen from the water, from the Opera House and Amalienborg Palace to colorful houseboats and hidden corners of the canals that most visitors never see.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   25 min

   We ride the public canal ferry, the water bus Copenhageners take to work. Your host points out the Old Stock Exchange and the Opera House from the water and shares how locals use the harbour today. The ferry is public transport, so seats can't be reserved. If it is full or not running, we walk the scenic canal route instead and still see every stop.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Pass by

   The Old Stock Exchange – history, tragedy, and resilience As we cruise through the canals on our Copenhagen canal tour, we’ll pass the Old Stock Exchange (Børsen) – one of the city’s most historic and distinctive landmarks. Built in the early 1600s, it’s famous for its dragon-spire roof, where four intertwined dragon tails spiral toward the sky. In April 2024, a devastating fire severely damaged the building, but restoration work is already underway to bring this architectural gem back to life, a powerful symbol of Copenhagen’s resilience and deep respect for its history.

8. 8

   Copenhagen Opera House

   Pass by

   The Royal Danish Opera House - modern elegance by the water. As we cruise through Copenhagen’s scenic canals on our Copenhagen canal tour, you’ll enjoy a fantastic view of the Royal Danish Opera House, a striking masterpiece of modern Danish architecture rising gracefully from the harborfront. Designed by Henning Larsen, one of Denmark’s most celebrated architects, the Opera House is among the most expensive ever built and a proud symbol of the nation’s commitment to art, design, and innovation. Seen from the water, its sweeping roof and clean lines reflect both Scandinavian minimalism and the city’s deep connection to the sea, a perfect example of Copenhagen’s blend of culture and craftsmanship.

9. 9

   The Little Mermaid

   10 min

   The Little Mermaid – Copenhagen’s timeless fairy tale After our harbor and canal tour, we’ll visit one of Copenhagen’s most beloved landmarks, The Little Mermaid. Here, you’ll hear the story behind Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale and how this modest bronze statue became a symbol of Copenhagen and of Denmark itself. Quietly watching over the harbor since 1913, she remains a reminder of the city’s creative soul and its deep connection to art, storytelling, and the sea.

10. 10

    Gefionspringvandet

    5 min

    Gefion Fountain: where Nordic myth meets the Copenhagen waterfront After getting off the public canal ferry, we’ll take a short walk to the Gefion Fountain, one of Copenhagen’s most impressive landmarks. Beautifully placed between the harbor, Kastellet Fortress, and the promenade leading to the Little Mermaid, this spectacular monument brings Nordic mythology to life. Here, I’ll share the story of Gefion, the Norse goddess who, according to legend, plowed the island of Zealand from Sweden using her four mighty oxen. With its cascading water, dramatic bronze figures, and scenic location by the water, the fountain perfectly blends mythology, history, and art, a highlight that beautifully connects ancient legend with modern Copenhagen.

11. 11

    Kastellet

    5 min

    The Citadel – history, nature, and everyday life inside the fortress As part of our walk, we’ll explore Kastellet, one of the best-preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe. Built in the 1600s to defend Copenhagen, this impressive site is still an active military area, yet it remains one of the city’s most peaceful green spaces. As we stroll along the grassy ramparts and cobbled paths, you’ll see the iconic windmill, charming red-brick barracks, and perhaps even spot the resident swans gliding in the moat. It’s a beautiful blend of history, nature, and everyday Danish life, showing how the past and present coexist in the heart of Copenhagen.

12. 12

    Churchillparken

    5 min

    Churchill Park – remembrance and reflection in the heart of Copenhagen Churchill Park is a quiet green oasis beside Kastellet Fortress and near The Little Mermaid, dedicated to the Danish resistance fighters of World War II. The park honors those who fought for Denmark’s freedom through memorials, sculptures, and a statue of Winston Churchill overlooking the harbor. During our Copenhagen walking tour, it’s a peaceful and meaningful stop where history and nature meet, a place to pause, reflect, and appreciate the courage that helped shape modern Denmark.

13. 13

    Frederiks Kirke (Marmorkirken)

    5 min

    The Marble Church – royal views and timeless architecture Marvel at the breathtaking Marble Church, officially known as Frederik’s Church, one of Copenhagen’s most beautiful architectural landmarks. Completed in 1894 after more than 150 years of construction, this masterpiece features one of the largest domes in Europe, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. As part of our Copenhagen walking tour, we’ll pause here to explore its fascinating story, from the ambitious 18th-century vision that nearly bankrupted the project to its eventual rebirth as a symbol of both royal pride and national faith. From this spot, you’ll also enjoy stunning views of Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family, perfectly aligned with the church’s grand dome, one of the most striking sights in the city.

14. 14

    Amalienborg

    5 min

    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.

15. 15

    Changing of her Majesty's guard at Amalienborg Castle

    5 min

    We end at Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family, for the Changing of the Guard. Morning departures arrive for the full ceremony at noon.

• 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

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.