Copenhagen is a city where history, modern design, and Danish hygge blend seamlessly. Its compact size and friendly layout make it ideal for exploring via a variety of guided tours. Whether you’re cruising along the canals, biking past royal palaces, or visiting historic castles, each experience offers a new way to see the Danish capital’s charm. We particularly love the Copenhagen Canal Cruise with Guide for its lively commentary and iconic sights like the Little Mermaid, and the Copenhagen: Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour for its active, in-depth exploration of key neighborhoods. With so many options, you’ll find a tour tailored to your pace, interests, and budget. For a full list of top-rated adventures, keep reading.
Quick Overview
Copenhagen’s tours cover everything from boat rides through its scenic waterways [], to castle visits at Kronborg and Frederiksborg [], as well as bike tours that let you experience the city like a local []. For history lovers, the Politically Incorrect Private Highlights Walking Tour offers a humorous take on royal stories, while the Copenhagen Card provides access to over 80 attractions []. Whether your style is scenic, active, or foodie-focused, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Copenhagen: Canal Cruise with Guide
Seeing Copenhagen from the water is a must, and this 1-hour canal cruise is a perfect introduction. Departing from central Copenhagen, the boat glides past highlights like the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s elegant architecture and lively harbors. The guides are lively and knowledgeable, making sure you catch stories behind the landmarks. Reviewers mention that the guide Ali “was very fun and energetic,” adding humor and local insights to each stop. The cruise offers fantastic photo opportunities and a relaxing way to see many sights without walking. Costing just $26, it’s a budget-friendly way to kickstart your visit. Be prepared if the weather isn’t sunny — the boat is open, so pack a jacket if needed.
Bottom Line: An easy, inexpensive way to dip into Copenhagen’s waterways, suitable for all ages and a great first stop.
2. Copenhagen: Tivoli Gardens Entry Ticket
For a taste of classic Danish fun, the Tivoli Gardens entry is a highlight. This historic amusement park dates back to 1843, combining lush gardens with thrilling rides and live entertainment. Skip the line with your pre-booked ticket, then enjoy the vibrant gardens, whirlwind rides, and charming eateries. Visitors love the Tivoli Youth Guard playing lively tunes and the opportunity to try Danish treats, from hot dogs to gourmet ice cream. It’s a wonderful spot for families or anyone seeking a festive atmosphere after sightseeing. At $30, it’s a bit of a splurge but well worth the experience if you enjoy amusement parks with a historical twist. Plus, the park looks especially magical at night when the lights turn on.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a fun afternoon or evening, especially if you love rides, gardens, and lively entertainment.
3. Copenhagen Card-Discover: 80+ Attractions & Public Transport
If you plan to explore many sites, the Copenhagen Card-Discover is a real money-saver. Valid for 2 days, it provides free entry to over 80 museums and attractions, plus unlimited use of public transportation in the entire Capital Region. You can hop on a canal cruise or visit Rosenborg Castle, knowing there’s no extra cost. One traveler wrote that “the card made our trip so smooth, and it’s definitely worth the price,” especially for those planning to visit several museums and castles. The convenience of airport transfers included is a bonus. It’s excellent for first-time visitors who want to maximize their time without worrying about individual tickets.
Bottom Line: Smart choice for multi-day travelers who want to see many sights without the hassle of paying at each stop.
4. From Copenhagen: Lund and Malmö 2-Country Tour
This full-day trip takes you across the Øresund Bridge into Sweden, to explore Lund’s enchanting cathedral and Malmö’s modern Turning Torso skyscraper. The tour starts with a visit to Hamlet’s Castle in Helsingør, then continues to Lund, where you can admire its medieval cathedral. Later, the boat ride across the Øresund offers scenic views of both countries. Guests rave about guide Mario, who was “very knowledgeable and made the day special,” and the seamless combination of castles, towns, and the bridge makes this a well-rounded experience. For around 9 hours, you get a taste of Scandinavian culture and history, with plenty of photo stops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting to see both Denmark and Sweden in one day, especially if castles and scenic bridges appeal.
5. Politically Incorrect Private Highlights Walking Tour
For those interested in a humorous yet insightful look at Danish royalty and history, this 1.5-hour walking tour is a hit. It covers landmarks like Amalienborg Palace Square and Frederiks Kirke while sharing stories that go beyond the usual guidebook fare. Guests praise guide Troels for his “knowledgeable and engaging” style, blending comedy with history seamlessly. The tour also includes stops at Strøget and the Copenhagen Opera House, giving a broader flavor of the city’s cultural landscape. Priced at $358.37 per group, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy stories with a side of humor and an insider’s view of royal Denmark.
Bottom Line: A fun, engaging way to learn about royal history with a comedic twist, perfect for those wanting a more personal experience.
6. Party Pub Crawl Copenhagen
If your idea of fun involves exploring Copenhagen’s nightlife, this 4-hour pub crawl delivers. Starting at Aloha Beach Bar, you’ll visit five popular venues, with four shots and a beer included to help warm up the night. Reviewers rave about guide UV’s energy and the chance to “meet new friends and discover bars you wouldn’t find alone.” The social atmosphere is lively, making it perfect for solo travelers or groups looking to party Danish-style. The crawl is budget-friendly at just under $47 and provides a taste of Copenhagen’s vibrant bar scene.
Bottom Line: A lively, social evening activity, ideal for those wanting to experience Copenhagen’s nightlife and meet other travelers.
7. The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour
Food lovers should not miss this 4-hour culinary tour, which takes you behind the scenes to exclusive venues like Arla Unika and Café & Ölhalle 1892. The tour features tasting Danish hot dogs, flødeboller (chocolate-covered marshmallow treats), smørrebrød, and handmade candies. Alexandra, the guide, gets high praise for her “informative and well-paced” storytelling. Guests rave about the variety and quality of the food, saying it’s a great way to experience Danish culture through its cuisine. As you explore the historic city center, you’ll gain insights into local food traditions that you won’t find in a restaurant menu.
Bottom Line: A must for foodies interested in authentic Danish flavors and exclusive tastings, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
8. Copenhagen: Guided Canal Tour by Electric Boat
Explore Copenhagen’s hidden corners on a quiet, eco-friendly electric boat. The guided 1-hour tour offers a peaceful ride past both historic and modern sights, with commentary from a friendly bilingual guide. Reviewers love the “personalized stories” and the chance to see places the larger boats can’t reach. The electric boat’s quiet operation adds to the relaxed feel, and the environmentally friendly aspect appeals to eco-conscious travelers. Priced at $41, it’s a bit more than the traditional cruise but offers a more intimate experience with less noise and pollution.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a tranquil, environmentally friendly cruise with local insights.
9. Copenhagen: Kronborg, Frederiksborg Castle and Roskilde Tour
This full-day guided tour combines Castles of Denmark with a visit to Roskilde Cathedral. Starting early, you’ll see Hamlet’s Castle at Kronborg, the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Elsinore, then explore Frederiksborg Palace, famous for its stunning Renaissance architecture. The trip ends at Roskilde, where you can walk through the cathedral and Viking Ship Museum. Guests praise guide Silas for his engaging commentary and the well-paced itinerary. The $186 price includes transportation, making it excellent value for a comprehensive day of sightseeing outside Copenhagen.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history and castle enthusiasts wanting a full picture of Denmark’s royal and Viking past.
10. Copenhagen: Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour with a Local Guide
Explore Copenhagen by bike on this active, 3-hour tour. Your guide will take you past landmarks like Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, and The Little Mermaid, sharing local stories along the way. Reviewers mention that Morena, the guide, “made the city come alive,” and the pace is suitable for most fitness levels. The tour includes tips for the rest of your stay and discounts on bike rentals afterward. For $57, it offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, local insights, and physical activity, ideal for those who prefer to cover more ground quickly.
Bottom Line: A lively, engaging way to see Copenhagen’s main sights and get insider tips for your trip.
11. Copenhagen Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour with Local Guide
This small-group bike tour lets you see the city’s top attractions in a fun, eco-friendly way. Guest reviews highlight guides like Joern, who provide “perfect content” and keep the group moving smoothly. The tour covers places inaccessible by car and offers insights into local culture. It’s well-suited for active travelers who want a quick yet rundown. The route includes Kongens Nytorv, Nyhavn, and Rosenborg Castle.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a quick, efficient, and fun way to experience Copenhagen by bicycle with knowledgeable guides.
12. 3h Walking Tour, Small Group Max 10 People Copenhagen
This intimate 3-hour walking tour is perfect for those who love personal attention. Led by guides like Josiah, it covers sites such as Copenhagen City Hall and Nyhavn, with flexibility depending on weather or interests. Guests appreciate the “depth of history and culture” shared in a small group, which makes questions easy and the experience more personal. The price is $69.51, reflecting the exclusivity of a small size.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized introduction to Copenhagen’s highlights.
13. Copenhagen 3-hour City Highlights Bike Tour
For those who want to see more in less time, this guided bike tour navigates past Nyhavn, Christiania, Opera House, and Rosenborg Castle. The guide provides detailed stories, and many reviews mention how easy and enjoyable the bikes are. It’s a great choice if you’re staying a short time but want to grasp the city’s key landmarks. The tour emphasizes local biking customs and offers a practical, fun experience.
Bottom Line: A highly efficient way to familiarize yourself with Copenhagen’s major sights on two wheels.
14. Copenhagen: 3-Hour City Highlights Bike Tour with Guide
This guided 3-hour bike tour takes you through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide for sharing stories about Copenhagen’s past and present. The route includes Nyhavn, Kastellet, and the Royal Palace, with frequent stops for photos and questions. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the city’s layout and history while staying active. Costing $55, it balances affordability with a rich experience.
Bottom Line: An active, informative way to get to know Copenhagen’s key sites with a friendly guide.
15. Copenhagen: Guided Segway Tour
Experience Copenhagen on a 1-hour Segway tour that covers major sights like The Little Mermaid and Nyhavn. Reviewers comment on how “fun and easy” the Segway ride is, perfect for those who want to see a lot quickly. The guide provides live commentary and photo stops, making it a lively, engaging adventure. The tour includes a snack and a souvenir, adding extra value. It’s best suited for first-timers or those who enjoy tech-friendly tours.
Bottom Line: A quick, fun introduction to Copenhagen’s highlights, especially for travelers who love gadgets and novelty.
16. Copenhagen Segway Tour 2 Hours w. Guide
For a more relaxed pace, this 2-hour Segway tour offers a rundown, including Christiansborg Palace, Amalienborg, and Nyhavn. Guests love the personalized attention and the fact that guides like Jacob go out of their way to ensure safety and fun. The route allows a comfortable ride while learning engaging stories about the city. The tour costs $81.80 per person, making it a mid-range option for those who want more time and detail.
Bottom Line: A flexible, enjoyable way to see Copenhagen’s sights with expert guidance on a Segway.
How to Choose Your Best Copenhagen Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your travel style and interests. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic introduction, the Copenhagen Canal Cruise or the Electric Boat Tour offer beautiful views with minimal effort. For active explorers, bike tours like the 3-hour Highlights Bike Tour are excellent choices—they let you see more ground and learn local insights. Food lovers will enjoy the Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour, which provides authentic tastes and local stories. History enthusiasts might prefer the Castle and Viking Ship Tour or the Small Group Walking Tour for their deeper dives into Denmark’s past.
Consider your budget: tours like the Canal Cruise and Bike Tours are reasonably priced, while private or specialty experiences like the Private Highlights Walking Tour offer a more intimate setting. Weather is also a factor—outdoor tours are best in good weather, so plan accordingly. Book early during peak season (May to September) to secure your preferred time slot. Many tours, especially the popular Segway or Bike Tours, fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Copenhagen offers a rich variety of tours that cater to every interest and activity level. For a scenic introduction, the Canal Cruise with Guide or the Electric Boat Tour are perfect starters. Those seeking to explore actively will love the bike tours, which allow you to cover more ground comfortably. Foodies should not miss the Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour, while history buffs might find the Castle and Roskilde Tour especially rewarding.
Whatever your choice, booking ahead is recommended—these experiences fill quickly, especially in summer. With options ranging from relaxed boat rides to energetic bike excursions, Copenhagen truly has a tour for every traveler. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take plenty of photos of the lively harbors and colorful streets!