An Unconventional Way to Experience Copenhagen: The Politically Incorrect Private Hidden Gems Walking Tour
When you think of sightseeing in Copenhagen, you might picture the grand Tivoli Gardens, the impressive City Hall, or the historic Christiansborg Slot. While these are undoubtedly highlights, sometimes the best way to truly get a feel for a city is to go beyond the guidebook and explore its lesser-known, more provocative stories. That’s exactly what the Politically Incorrect Private Hidden Gems Walking Tour offers. For around $360 per group, this 90-minute stroll takes you from the Danish Parliament to Viking artifacts, blending humor, controversy, and local lore into a lively, personalized experience.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s delivered by a guide (Troels, from reviews) who combines knowledge with a playful, engaging attitude. Second, it offers an authentic and entertaining perspective on Copenhagen’s history, politics, and culture—something you won’t find in standard city guides. We love the way it balances facts with stories that are unexpected and sometimes humorous.
A possible consideration is that, because it’s a private tour, the focus is on your group—so if you prefer a large group or a more formal setting, this might not be your best fit. Also, the stops are quick, so you’ll see key sights but won’t have time for deep exploration at each location. Still, if you’re after a personalized experience packed with stories that challenge the usual narratives, this tour is well worth the cost.
This experience is particularly suited for curious travelers who enjoy humor, history with a twist, and stories about politics, corruption, and Viking legends. If you’re eager to see Copenhagen through a lens that combines entertainment and insight, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Unique Perspective: Offers stories about politics, corruption, and Viking artifacts you won’t find in typical guides.
- Personalized Experience: Conducted privately, so your group gets tailored attention and commentary.
- Compact and Focused: 90-minute tour covering key sights with fast-paced, engaging stops.
- Humor and Authenticity: Guides bring humor and local insight, enhancing the storytelling.
- Convenient Meeting Points: Starts at Gammel Strand and ends near Rådhuspladsen, easy to access on foot or public transit.
- Good Value: While at $360, it offers a focused, private experience that packs in stories and insights.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Copenhagen
In-Depth Review: A Closer Look at the Politically Incorrect Private Hidden Gems Walking Tour
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins at Gammel Strand, a central location easily reachable via public transportation, making it convenient for visitors staying in the heart of Copenhagen. It ends at Rådhuspladsen—the bustling square near Tivoli Gardens—so you can easily continue exploring afterward or stroll back along the famous Strøget shopping street. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick but rich introduction to the city, especially if you’re pressed for time but craving depth and personality.
Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate. This ensures a tailored experience, with the guide (who many reviews praise as entertaining and knowledgeable) focusing entirely on your interests. The tour includes pickup options and a mobile ticket, which adds to the convenience of planning your day.
Exploring Christiansborg Slot and Danish Politics
The tour kicks off at Christiansborg Slot, where you’ll learn about Denmark’s parliamentary system and the evolution of its democracy. Unlike standard tours, this one explores how Viking roots and political controversy shaped modern Denmark. The guide’s insights bring lively commentary about Danish politics, corruption, and the country’s reputation as the happiest nation in the world. One reviewer loved how the guide, Troels, made the story fun and engaging, especially when discussing how the monarchy and parliament have interacted over centuries.
Tivoli Gardens and the Viking Artifacts
Next, it’s a quick walk to Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest amusement park in the world. While many visitors just admire the rides and lights, this tour dives briefly into its history and cultural significance. It’s a highlight for those interested in the juxtaposition of Copenhagen’s playful nightlife and ancient history.
The stops then include a walkthrough of Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum founded by the Carlsberg brewery family, and a visit to Det Kgl. Bibliotek (the Royal Library). Here, you’ll hear about philosopher Kierkegaard and the Danish approach to happiness and social philosophy—another layer of what makes Denmark unique.
If you're drawn to exploring Copenhagen on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences
Controversial Stories and Hidden Gems
One of the most praised aspects of this tour is how it shares stories you likely wouldn’t hear elsewhere. For example, passing by the Jewish Museum, the guide briefly describes its significance, but the focus remains on controversial stories about Danish history and society—delivering a more raw and unfiltered perspective.
You’ll also visit the Copenhagen City Hall and the Stock Exchange, where the guide discusses Christian IV’s influence and the development of Denmark’s economy, weaving in stories of corruption, power struggles, and historical figures. These snippets help you see beyond the tourist façade and understand the city’s complexities.
End of Tour and Walking Back
The tour concludes near Rådhuspladsen, from where it’s a short walk back across Strøget—another opportunity to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere. The quick pace and tightly packed stops mean you get a snapshot of Copenhagen’s controversial, humorous, and sometimes surprising stories, delivered with a friendly, humorous tone that keeps the mood light despite the sometimes serious subject matter.
Authentic Reviews and Guide’s Engagement
Multiple reviews mention how much they appreciated the guide’s personality. One says, “Our tour guide was amazing, in that he was tons of fun and very informative.” Others note that the personal discussions about Danish culture and history made the experience more memorable than standard tours.
Price and Value
At $359.26 for a private group, this tour is a good value if you’re traveling with friends or family and want an intimate, tailored experience. The personal attention means you get to ask questions and steer the conversation toward your interests—something that large group tours can’t offer. Plus, the stories and insights tend to be more revealing and engaging, making the price worthwhile for those seeking a more authentic connection to the city.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy humor, stories, and a twist on traditional sightseeing. It suits those with a curious mind who want to understand Copenhagen’s complex history and culture from a more unfiltered perspective. If you appreciate personalized attention and storytelling that blends facts with humor, you’ll find this tour both entertaining and enlightening.
On the other hand, if your priority is seeing every major monument in detail or exploring deep historical sites, this tour might feel a bit too quick and anecdotal. It’s perfect as an introduction or a complement to more comprehensive explorations.
FAQ: Your Questions About the Tour Answered
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for older children or teens who can appreciate humor and complex stories about politics and history.
Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Danish?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English and designed to be accessible for international travelers.
Are admission tickets included?
No, the stops like Christiansborg Slot, Tivoli Gardens, and others require separate admission tickets, which are not included in the tour price.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, offering a quick yet insightful overview of key sites and stories.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gammel Strand and ends at Rådhuspladsen, both central locations easy to reach on foot or via public transit.
Is it suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including those with service animals, and it’s tailored to private groups for a more comfortable experience.
What’s the main focus of the stories told?
The tour emphasizes politics, controversy, Viking artifacts, and humorous tales about Copenhagen’s history and culture.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.
Is this tour good value?
For a private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide who shares stories beyond the usual, it offers excellent value, especially considering the context and quality of storytelling.
Final Thoughts
The Politically Incorrect Private Hidden Gems Walking Tour in Copenhagen offers a refreshing, lively way to explore the city with a focus on stories that challenge the typical tourist narrative. It’s a personalized journey that combines humor, history, and authentic local insights—perfect for those seeking a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Copenhagen.
You’ll appreciate the guide’s engaging storytelling and the chance to see the city through a more controversial and colorful lens. It’s a great choice if you’re after a fun, memorable introduction or a unique perspective to add to your Copenhagen itinerary.
Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone who enjoys a good story with a side of humor, this tour will leave you with plenty to think about—and plenty to talk about when you return home.
More Walking Tours in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen: Industrial past and Carlsberg City Walking Tour
- Copenhagen: A guided walk for first-timers in the city
- 90-minute Private City Highlights Walking Tour in Copenhagen
- Small-Group Gourmet Evening Walking Tour of Copenhagen with Market Visit and Dinner
- Copenhagen Private Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)
- Hygge Walk in Copenhagen with a Local
More Tours in Copenhagen
More Tour Reviews in Copenhagen
More Copenhagen experiences we've covered
- Copenhagen Private 3h biking tour
- Copenhagen: The Opera House Guided Tour
- Copenhagen: Guided Segway Tour
- Copenhagen: Industrial past and Carlsberg City Walking Tour
- Amalienborg Palace, Nyhavn, Frederiks Kirke, Copenhagen Tour
- Private Copenhagen Boat cruise in Scandinavian mahogany boat
- Copenhagen: Hologram Zoo Africa Adventure 40 minut
- Best of Copenhagen Biking Tour-3 Hours, Small Group max 10
- Copenhagen: A guided walk for first-timers in the city
- Rosenborg Castle Entry Ticket in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen Off the Beaten Tracks: Nørrebro Bike Tour
- Copenhagen: MACA Art Museum Entry Ticket