The Philosopher’s Last Walk: An audio tour on the life of Søren Kierkegaard

Discover Copenhagen’s Philosophical Heart with “The Philosopher’s Last Walk”

If you’re visiting Copenhagen and have a taste for history, culture, and a dash of intellectual curiosity, The Philosopher’s Last Walk offers a uniquely engaging way to explore the city. For just $7.99 per person, you’re taken on a self-guided audio journey that traces the life of Søren Kierkegaard, one of Denmark’s most influential thinkers. Starting at his family house and ending at his grave in Nørrebro, you’ll walk through some of Copenhagen’s most iconic spots, all while learning about his philosophy and personal story. The tour typically takes just over an hour, making it a perfect feature for a short afternoon or a calm morning stroll.

What we love about this experience is how it combines cultural sightseeing with intellectual storytelling — you get to see the city and gain insight into the mind of a philosopher without the pressure of a guided group. Plus, the offline access to maps and audio means you’re free to explore without worrying about data or Wi-Fi.

The only potential downside? As a self-guided tour, it requires you to navigate on your own, so if you prefer a guided experience with a live person to answer questions, this might feel a bit solitary. Still, if you’re comfortable with using your smartphone as your guide, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding, especially for those interested in Copenhagen’s history or Kierkegaard’s philosophy.

This tour suits history buffs, philosophy lovers, or curious travelers eager for an authentic, intimate peek into Copenhagen’s cultural fabric. If you enjoy self-paced explorations with a literary twist, this could become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: Priced at just $7.99, with lifetime access and offline capabilities.
• Educational and scenic: Combines sightseeing with storytelling about Kierkegaard’s life and philosophy.
• Flexible timing: Lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, ideal for a leisurely walk.
• Authentic experience: Visits prominent Copenhagen landmarks connected to Kierkegaard’s life.
• Self-guided convenience: No need for a group; you choose your pace and stops.
• Well-received: One review calls it a “rewarding and witty tour,” praising the map function and commentary.

An In-Depth Look at “The Philosopher’s Last Walk” in Copenhagen

Starting Point: Søren Kierkegaard’s Family House

The tour kicks off at Nytorv 2, in central Copenhagen, where you’ll find yourself near the historic site of Kierkegaard’s childhood home. From the beginning, the narration sets a reflective tone, giving a glimpse of his early life and the environment that shaped his thinking. We appreciated how the introduction creates a sense of stepping into his world, making the city feel like a living biography.

Passing by the Church and Rundetårn

As you follow the route, the church (likely the nearby churches prominent in Kierkegaard’s era) and Rundetårn — the iconic round tower — serve as visual anchors. The tower, with its spiral ramp and panoramic views, is a Copenhagen highlight, and the narration ties it into Kierkegaard’s philosophical themes of faith and perspective.

Copenhagen University and the Cathedral

Next, the tour guides you past Copenhagen University — a symbol of scholarship — and the cathedral, likely the Copenhagen Cathedral (Vor Frue Kirke). Both sites are integral to understanding the city’s intellectual and religious landscape during Kierkegaard’s lifetime. The narration provides insights about his academic pursuits and religious reflections, enriching your visit.

Crossing the Bridge and Lakes

Walking along the bridge and past the lakes, you get a taste of Copenhagen’s scenic beauty, contrasting with the heavier themes of philosophy. These peaceful spots are perfect for contemplating Kierkegaard’s ideas about life’s individual journey and faith. The narration’s wit and clarity keep the mood light yet thoughtful.

Into Assistens Cemetery — The Final Resting Place

The walk into Assistens Cemetery is especially poignant. It’s not just a cemetery but a place where many notable Danes are buried, including Kierkegaard himself. Approaching his grave, the narration reflects on his legacy, his existential questions, and the importance of individual choice — themes that still resonate today.

Ending at Kierkegaard’s Grave

The tour concludes at Søren Kierkegaard’s burial site, a reflective spot to end your journey. Here, you can sit, reflect, or continue exploring Copenhagen’s literary and philosophical sites at your leisure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers lifetime access with the VoiceMap app for both Android and iOS, allowing you to listen offline, which is great if you’re wandering through areas with spotty data. It’s a private experience, so only your group participates, making it more intimate and flexible.

However, keep in mind that tickets to museums or attractions along the route are not included, nor are smartphones, headphones, transportation, or food. You’ll need to plan those separately, especially if you want to explore any sites more deeply.

Practical Tips

Starting at Nytorv 2, you should arrive with your device charged and ready. Since the tour is designed to be self-paced, you might find it helpful to download the audio beforehand. The route is well marked through landmarks, but familiarize yourself with the map for smooth navigation.

Audience and Suitability

This experience is especially suitable for independent travelers who enjoy self-guided adventures, as well as those with an interest in philosophy or Danish culture. The review mentioned, “highly recommended if you’re interested in Kierkegaard,” and many other travelers report that the commentary is both informative and witty — making it engaging even if you’re not a philosophy expert.

Price and Value

At just under $8, this tour offers excellent value for a personalized, educational walk through Copenhagen’s history. Given that it combines sightseeing with storytelling, it offers a rich experience without the expense or time commitment of guided tours.

The Sum Up

“The Philosopher’s Last Walk” strikes a nice balance between cultural sightseeing and thoughtful storytelling. It’s ideal for independent travelers, history buffs, or philosophy enthusiasts who want an authentic, immersive experience. The price is reasonable, especially considering the lifetime access and offline convenience, making it a smart choice for those wanting to explore Copenhagen at their own pace.

While it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with self-guided exploration and smartphone use, it also offers meaningful insights into one of Denmark’s most famous thinkers. Whether you’re wandering through the city or taking a reflective stroll, this tour provides a compelling way to connect with Copenhagen’s intellectual past.

If you’re looking to see parts of Copenhagen beyond the typical tourist spots and enjoy a narrative that makes the city’s history come alive, this tour is well worth your time. Just remember to bring your phone fully charged, and prepare for a walk that’s as enlightening as it is scenic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as a self-guided walk, it’s suitable for most age groups. However, younger children may find the philosophical content less engaging, so it’s best for teens and adults interested in history or philosophy.

Do I need to pay entrance fees for any sites?
No, the tour does not include entrance fees. You’ll visit public landmarks and the cemetery, which are free to enter. Any additional museum visits are at your own expense.

Can I do this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is available from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM daily, and you can start it whenever it suits your schedule. Just ensure your device is charged and your maps are downloaded if you’re offline.

How long does the tour take?
It lasts roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you linger at each site.

Is the tour guided by a person?
No, it’s a self-guided audio tour. You follow the narration using the VoiceMap app as you walk through Copenhagen.

What kind of experience can I expect in terms of walking?
It’s a leisurely walk through key historic and scenic sites, with stops at important landmarks. Comfort with walking and good footwear will enhance your experience.

If you’re eager to explore Copenhagen through the lens of one of its greatest thinkers without the hassle of guided groups or expensive tickets, this tour offers a thoughtful and charming way to do so.