Copenhagen is a fantastic city for full-day tours because it combines historic sites, charming neighborhoods, and scenic landscapes in easy reach of the city center. Whether you’re fascinated by royal palaces, Viking history, or modern design, the city offers rich experiences that can fill a day or more. We especially love the Full-Day; Castle, Palace, Cathedral & Viking ships Tour for its diversity—covering everything from Kronborg’s Shakespearean fame to the Viking Ship Museum—making it a well-rounded glimpse into Denmark’s past. For those interested in a more personal, in-depth experience, the Copenhagen Private Full Day Tour lets you tailor your day with a private guide.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 6 best full-day tours in Copenhagen, each offering a different way to explore this dynamic city, whether by coach, boat, train, or walking.
1. Full-Day; Castle, Palace, Cathedral & Viking ships Tour
At number 1 on our list, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Denmark’s most iconic sites. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, you’ll visit Kronborg Castle, the real-life setting of Hamlet, with a guided exploration that immerses you in Danish and Scandinavian history. The 1-hour guided tour explores the castle’s mystique and architecture, and admission is included.
Next, you’ll drive through North Zealand’s scenic landscapes to Frederiksborg Castle, where you’ll spend two hours exploring the Renaissance palace at your own pace. The tour includes a 50-minute drive and plenty of on-foot exploring, perfect for history and architecture fans. The Viking Ship Museum at Roskilde adds a maritime dimension, giving you a glimpse of Denmark’s seafaring past.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s engaging storytelling, and the 9.5-hour duration makes it perfect for those wanting a full immersion into Denmark’s royal and Viking history. The tour is especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, detailed day without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: This tour combines history, scenic drives, and hands-on exploration—an excellent choice for culture lovers who want a hassle-free, in-depth experience.
2. Malmø Private Full Day Trip from Copenhagen by Train
At number 2, this private day trip to Malmø provides a change of scenery and culture just across the Øresund Bridge. The trip is about 5 to 6.5 hours, with train tickets included, so you don’t need to worry about logistics. Once in Sweden, your private guide walks you through Malmø’s mix of old and new architecture, visiting landmarks like the St. Peter’s Church, the Old Town square (Stortorget), and the Malmø Castle.
The tour includes a Swedish lunch and visits to cultural highlights like the Malmø City Library. Guests love the leisurely pace, with options to explore artist studios, cafes, or simply soak in the atmosphere. The guide, Lesley, has a knack for making history come alive and sharing local insights.
Critics highlight the tour’s flexibility and the opportunity to experience another country in a day, which isn’t often included in Copenhagen tours. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day with plenty of time for photos and local flavor.
Bottom line: Perfect for those craving a quick international escape with a private guide to customize your visit.
3. Copenhagen Private Full Day Tour
Number 3 is a private tour of Copenhagen, lasting about 5 to 6.5 hours. This experience is all about personalized attention—your guide creates a custom itinerary that covers the city’s major sights and hidden corners. The tour can include highlights like Amalienborg Palace and the Round Tower, with the flexibility to add other sites or focus on specific interests.
The private setup means you’ll avoid large groups, and the guide is happy to tailor the day based on your preferences. Guests rave about the host’s storytelling skills, and the option to upgrade to include a traditional Danish lunch makes this a comprehensive experience. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a coffee break and learn quirky facts about Copenhagen’s history and culture.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a curated, intimate experience and are willing to pay a premium for personal service. It’s a great choice for first-timers wanting an overview or seasoned visitors who like their sightseeing flexible and tailored.
Bottom line: Ideal if you prefer a bespoke day with a personal guide and enjoy the flexibility of customizing your experience.
4. Full-Day Tour; Castle, Palace, Cathedral and Viking Ships
If you’re looking for a classic Danish cultural day, this full-day castle and Viking tour covers all the iconic sites from Kronborg to Roskilde. Starting with a guided tour of Kronborg Castle, you get immersed in the legend of Hamlet and Danish royal history, with a 50-minute scenic drive to Roskilde.
The highlight is a guided tour of Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a royal burial ground. Following that, you’ll visit the Viking Ship Museum, where reconstructed ships lie along the fjord, offering a tangible link to Denmark’s Viking past. The 9.5-hour day includes scenic countryside drives through forests and small villages.
Guests mention the guide’s professionalism and the well-run schedule. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts or those wanting a full culture with guided insight and scenic countryside views.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, well-paced day for history lovers eager to explore Denmark’s royal, maritime, and Viking heritage.
5. Copenhagen: Private Full-Day City Tour
At number 5, this private city tour offers a flexible, in-depth look at Copenhagen’s highlights and lesser-known spots. The tour lasts about 5 to 6.5 hours, with the option to include a full meal or just sightseeing.
Your guide will take you from the Round Tower and Christiansborg Palace to the colorful streets of Nyhavn and the Royal Playgrounds. The itinerary can be customized to include local favorites and hidden corners, providing a more authentic experience. You’ll enjoy a Danish pastry and coffee break, and the guide’s local knowledge ensures you see the city from a resident’s perspective.
This tour is suited for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience and enjoy engaging storytelling. It’s particularly good for those who want to explore beyond the usual tourist sites or focus on specific interests like food, architecture, or history.
Bottom line: A top choice for those wanting a private, customizable exploration of Copenhagen with local insights.
6. Full Day Private Walking Tour in Copenhagen
Finally, the full-day private walking tour is perfect for travelers who want to stay on foot and explore the city intimately. Lasting about 7 hours, it begins at Copenhagen Central Station with stops at Tivoli Gardens, City Hall, Christiansborg Palace, and Nyhavn.
Led by a historian guide, you’ll walk through the city’s most picturesque streets, parks, and squares, learning about royalty, architecture, and local life. The tour includes several stops for photos, snacks, and rest, making it suitable for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. The guide’s storytelling makes history engaging and memorable, and the tour is flexible enough to cater to your interests.
Ideal for travelers who prefer walking and want a comprehensive, laid-back experience of Copenhagen’s highlights without feeling rushed. The 7-hour duration makes it manageable for most travelers, and the focus on historical context makes it educational as well.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who enjoy walking, want an in-depth narrative, and prefer a small, private group setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Copenhagen Full-Day Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you want a focused, in-depth exploration of royal sites and Viking history, Tours #1 and #4 are excellent options. For a personalized experience, Tours #3 and #5 allow you to customize your day, perfect if you love flexibility and local insights.
Travelers craving a cross-border adventure might prefer the Malmø private trip, while those who prefer walking and storytelling will enjoy the full-day walking tour. For luxury and exclusivity, private options often provide deeper engagement and tailored experiences—ideal for special occasions or first-timers.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (summer and holidays), to secure your preferred date and guide.
Copenhagen offers a range of full-day tours, whether you’re interested in royal palaces, Viking ships, or simply discovering the city’s hidden corners. Two standout options are the Castle, Palace and Viking tour for historical highlights and the private city tour for a tailored, in-depth experience. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or seeking a relaxing, personalized day, there’s a perfect tour waiting for you. Be sure to book early and enjoy your adventure in Denmark’s lively capital.