Copenhagen is a city that wears its history on every cobblestone and canal. Thanks to its well-preserved architecture, royal palaces, and museums, it offers a wealth of opportunities for travelers eager to explore Denmark’s past. We especially love how many tours blend storytelling with authentic experiences — like walking through the Jewish quarter, biking past royal residences, or visiting the UNESCO site of Stevns Klint. These tours make history tangible, whether you’re a seasoned historian or just curious about Denmark’s rich heritage.
For anyone interested in a deeper dive, Copenhagen’s diverse options mean you can choose a tour based on your interests and pace. For example, the Copenhagen: Danish-Jewish History Tour offers a moving story of resilience, while the Private E-Biking Copenhagen History and Nature Adventures combines outdoor activity with cultural landmarks. Whatever your style, these tours promise a meaningful way to connect with Copenhagen’s history.
1. Copenhagen: Danish-Jewish History Tour
This 2.5-hour Danish-Jewish History Tour traces the story of Copenhagen’s Jewish community from their arrival in 1622 through triumphs and tragedies, including the daring rescue of 97% of Danish Jews during WWII. As a private walking tour, it offers a personalized look at key sites like the old Jewish quarter and historic synagogues. What sets this tour apart is its sensitive handling of complex topics, making it both educational and respectful.
Tour guides are praised for their deep knowledge and storytelling ability, with reviews highlighting how well they balance historical facts with personal stories. Guests often appreciate the local tips, like nearby bakeries and food trucks, making the experience feel warm and authentic. The tour’s focus on resilience and community makes it ideal for travelers interested in social history and stories of courage.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a thoughtful, engaging introduction to Danish-Jewish history and a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Private E-Biking Copenhagen History and Nature Adventures
For a more active way to explore Copenhagen, the Private E-Biking Copenhagen History and Nature Adventures combines outdoor fun with cultural insights. Over roughly three hours, your private guide will lead you past Amalienborg Palace, Rosenborg Castle, and the lush greenery of Bispebjerg. It’s a breeze with the included e-bikes, which make uphill climbs and long distances effortless.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and focus on both history and nature. You’ll see iconic sites while enjoying the fresh air, making it a good choice for travelers who want to avoid crowded buses or stuffy museums. The reviews praise the guides, like Tamas, for their local insights and the smooth ride. Plus, if you love food discoveries, the guide’s tip on Alice’s Ice Cream is a fun bonus.
Bottom Line: This private e-bike tour delivers a lively, eco-friendly way to see Copenhagen’s highlights at a relaxed pace, suited for active travelers or families.
3. Queer Copenhagen Historical Tour
This 1.5-hour Queer Copenhagen Historical Tour offers a unique perspective by exploring the city through the lens of LGBTQ+ history. Starting at Regnbuepladsen and passing through Magstræde and Gammel Strand, the tour highlights notable figures, struggles, and milestones faced by the community in Copenhagen.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour dives into stories of resilience and activism, making it engaging and heartfelt. It’s designed for travelers interested in social history and the vibrant cultural shifts in Denmark. The tour’s short but impactful format makes it ideal for those with limited time but a desire to understand a different side of Copenhagen’s past.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a concise, meaningful exploration of LGBTQ+ history set against the city’s historic core.
4. Copenhagen: Private City E-Bike History & Nature Tour
At number 4 on our list, the Copenhagen: Private City E-Bike History & Nature Tour offers a comprehensive three-hour ride through Denmark’s capital. The tour covers landmarks like Christianborg Palace, famous for its government meetings, and Grudtvigs Church, admired for its architecture.
This tour emphasizes Copenhagen’s history and its green spaces, blending cultural sights with outdoor beauty. The guides are praised for their storytelling, and the comfortable e-bikes make it accessible for most fitness levels. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine history with a bit of outdoor exploration.
While reviews note the experience as “fantastic” with “easy and fun” bikes, some might find the pace a bit brisk if you prefer a slow, contemplative walk. Still, it’s a good choice for active visitors looking for a well-rounded tour.
Bottom Line: This tour balances city history with outdoor scenery, suited for those who want to see more ground without sacrificing depth.
5. Afternoon Hamlet Castle Tour to a UNESCO World Heritage Site
For Shakespeare fans or lovers of grand castles, the Hamlet Castle Tour is a 6-hour journey up Denmark’s coast. It begins in Copenhagen, traveling through North Sealand to Fredensborg Palace, a symbol of peace and royal history, built for King Frederik IV. Then, it’s on to Helsingør to see Kronborg Castle, the real-life inspiration for Hamlet’s Elsinore.
The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Denmark’s royal past and Shakespearean drama. It includes a walk through the medieval streets of Helsingør, where 16th- and 17th-century architecture still dominates. Admission to castles isn’t included, but the experience of walking these historic sites makes it worthwhile.
Reviewers love the scenic drive and the chance to explore the UNESCO site, making it ideal for history buffs and architecture lovers. The long day makes it less suitable if you prefer relaxed sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A full-day cultural and historic adventure perfect for those interested in Danish royalty, Shakespeare, or coastal scenery.
6. Historic Copenhagen: Exclusive Private Tour with a Local Expert
This 2-hour Exclusive Private Tour offers a personalized look at Copenhagen’s iconic sites. Led by a local expert, it covers the colorful Nyhavn, the impressive Frederik’s Church (The Marble Church), and Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels.
What makes this tour stand out is its tailored approach—you can focus on your specific interests and ask questions freely. The guide will also provide personalized recommendations for exploring further, making it a flexible option for travelers seeking an immersive experience.
The review mentions the tour’s “private and intimate” feel, ideal for couples or small groups. It’s a quick way to get a curated taste of the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a customized, insider’s introduction to Copenhagen’s history and architecture.
$197.81 per person
7. Stevns Klint UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour from Copenhagen
This 7-hour Stevns Klint UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour takes you to Denmark’s dramatic coast, where 65 million years of Earth’s history are on display. The towering white chalk cliffs are famous for their links to the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs. The trip includes visits to Boesdal Kalkbrud, an old limestone quarry, and the Stevns Klint Experience museum, where interactive exhibits bring the geology and Cold War history alive.
This tour is ideal for geology enthusiasts and those interested in Earth’s history. The scenery is breathtaking, and the fossils and layers of sediment tell stories millions of years old. Reviews highlight its “extraordinary” experience and the thrill of seeing the site where history was made.
It’s a long, full-day trip, so it suits travelers prepared for a bit of travel and walking. If your interest lies in natural history and striking landscapes, this is a standout choice.
Bottom Line: A must-do if you love geology, fossils, and landscapes that narrate Earth’s ancient history.
$353
8. Danish National Museum Copenhagen Archeology History Tour
Finally, at number 8, the Danish National Museum offers a comprehensive look at Denmark’s past, from Viking artifacts and Egyptian mummies to modern exhibits. This flexible tour ranges from 2 to 5 hours, allowing you to customize your visit with a history expert guide. It covers antiquity, the Middle Ages, and Renaissance objects, giving a broad overview of Denmark’s cultural evolution.
What makes this museum tour special is its variety — you’ll see everything from ancient relics to royal artifacts, including a section dedicated to the Danish monarchy. The museum’s collection is one of the best in Scandinavia, making it a great choice for history and archaeology lovers.
Reviews note that the tour’s flexibility and detailed storytelling help bring the exhibits to life. It’s especially suitable for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a slower, more focused exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an all-encompassing overview of Danish archeology and history, with the flexibility to tailor your experience.
$270 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Historic Tour in Copenhagen
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re moved by stories of resilience and community, the Danish-Jewish Tour is a profound choice. For active explorers, the E-Biking Tours—both the city and nature versions—offer an energetic way to see the sights. History buffs craving castles and royal stories will love the UNESCO and royal palace tours, while those interested in geological layers and fossils will find the Stevns Klint trip unmissable.
Budget also plays a role: tours like the Queer Copenhagen Tour and the National Museum offer good value for shorter or more focused experiences. Remember to book early, especially for popular private tours or full-day excursions, and check availability to align with your itinerary.
In summary, Copenhagen’s historical tours cover everything from Jewish resilience and royal grandeur to geological marvels and LGBTQ+ stories. Whether you prefer walking, biking, or museum visits, there’s something to deepen your understanding of this fascinating city.
Copenhagen’s history is diverse and layered, offering plenty of options to satisfy your curiosity. If you want a personal, story-driven experience, the Private Guided Tour is a perfect fit. For those craving an outdoor adventure, the E-Biking options combine exploration with exercise. And for history lovers wanting a rundown, the National Museum is hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, early booking ensures you secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons. Dive into Copenhagen’s past and make your visit truly memorable.