Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale

Copenhagen Highlights: Walk & Ferry Tour with Change of Guards Finale
Rating: 5.0/5 (152 reviews)
Price: $62.96 per person
Duration: About 3 hours
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
Recommended by: 99% of travelers

When you’re visiting Copenhagen, getting a comprehensive yet flexible overview of the city can feel tricky. This tour is designed to give you a taste of the city’s most iconic sights alongside some hidden gems, all in a manageable 3-hour window. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore on foot and enjoy a scenic ferry ride through the canals — a perfect way to see Copenhagen’s highlights from water and land.

What we love about this experience is how it balances major landmarks with authentic local stories, making history approachable and engaging. Plus, the ferry ride through the city’s historic canals adds a relaxing break and fantastic photo opportunities—especially of Nyhavn and the Royal Opera House.

One thing to consider is the group size—this is a small group tour, which means more personalized attention, but on weekends or busy days, the ferry can sometimes be full or canceled. It’s also worth noting that if you’re not a big fan of walking or standing, this might require a moderate effort.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded overview without feeling rushed, as well as for travelers on a layover eager to see Copenhagen’s top sights efficiently. It’s also great for those who appreciate local stories and scenic views over just ticking off a checklist of attractions.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines walking, a ferry ride, and sightseeing.
• Authentic stories: Local guide shares colorful tales and historical insights.
• Water views: The ferry offers a scenic perspective of the city’s canals and waterfront.
• Royal traditions: End with a view of the Changing of the Guards at Amalienborg Palace.
• Flexible route: If the ferry is full, the guide adjusts to a scenic walking route along the canals.
• Small group size: Enhances comfort, interaction, and tailored commentary.

A Deep Dive into the Copenhagen Highlights & Change of Guards Tour

This tour starts at Copenhagen Central Station, a lively hub and an excellent introduction to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. From there, your guide will lead you past Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. While the park itself isn’t included in the ticket, the outside view and historical stories make it worth a quick stop — as one review highlights, Tivoli “inspired Walt Disney,” offering a glimpse into the magic behind the scenes.

Next, you’ll pass the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, a treasure trove of art and architecture founded by Carlsberg’s Carl Jacobsen. Outside, the building’s grand façade and the glass dome of the tropical winter garden evoke a sense of elegance, even if you only spend a few minutes here. This stop encapsulates the blend of culture, history, and design that makes Copenhagen unique.

Then, the tour takes you to Christiansborg Palace, the seat of Danish democracy. Your guide shares stories of Danish kings, queens, and modern political life, helping you grasp the significance of this historic site. The nearby Black Diamond library provides a stunning contrast with its modern architecture, symbolizing Copenhagen’s blend of old and new. Here, you’ll hop onto the electric harbor ferry for a scenic 25-minute cruise.

The Scenic Ferry Ride and Canal Passage

The ferry is a real highlight. You’ll glide through Copenhagen’s canals, passing by notable landmarks like the Old Stock Exchange (Børsen), which recently suffered a fire but remains a vital piece of the city’s architectural heritage. Travelers rave about the relaxing and picturesque ride, with one review mentioning the almost empty ferry on weekdays, making it a peaceful escape.

On the water, you’ll admire the Royal Danish Opera House, a modern masterpiece designed by Henning Larsen, and get a glimpse of Nyhavn, the colorful harbor lined with historic townhouses and lively cafés. The little statue of the Little Mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen, is also part of this boat trip — iconic and a must-photo stop for many visitors.

The Walk Through Historic and Royal Copenhagen

After disembarking, the tour continues on foot through Kastellet, one of the best-preserved star-shaped fortresses in Europe. Walking along its ramparts, you’ll enjoy views of the windmill and the serene parkland that make this a peaceful retreat in the city. The guide shares stories about Denmark’s military past and local mythology, including the legend of Gefion Fountain, which depicts the Norse goddess driving oxen to create Zealand.

The walk also takes you past Churchillparken, a quiet spot dedicated to WWII resistance fighters, and the breathtaking Frederiks Kirke (Marble Church), with its gigantic dome inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica. The nearby Amalienborg Palace provides the perfect setting for the Changing of the Guards — a colorful display of Danish royal tradition.

Depending on your departure time, the 09:00 AM tour concludes with the full Changing of the Guards at 12:00 PM, an event that many reviews describe as a highlight. For the 1:00 PM tour, you’ll see a smaller, more intimate guard change, offering a quieter but still authentic experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value for Your Money

For just under $63, you’re getting a three-hour guided adventure that covers major sights, local stories, and scenic water views. The combination of walking and ferrying provides both active exploration and relaxing sightseeing, especially for travelers who want to maximize limited time. The small group size ensures a more personal experience and the ability to ask questions or get tailored recommendations.

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “the guide was very welcoming, informative, and responsive,” and “the guide shared fun facts about the city.” The ferry component, often highlighted as a favorite, offers a unique perspective on Copenhagen’s architecture and waterways that you can’t get from land alone.

It’s worth noting that the ferry is a public service, so seats aren’t reservable, and on weekends, it can be crowded or canceled. The guide’s flexibility in rerouting along the scenic canal makes sure the experience remains worthwhile, even if the ferry isn’t available.

The Experience in Context: Who Will Love It?

This tour is especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get a rundown without feeling overwhelmed. If you enjoy scenic water views, historic sites, and cultural stories, you’ll find this tour hits the mark. The small group setting makes it ideal for those who want more interaction and personalized attention.

Travelers with an interest in royal traditions, architecture, and local legends will appreciate the stops at Amalienborg, Kastellet, and the Little Mermaid. The tour’s flexibility also makes it excellent for layover travelers or those with limited time, providing a dense, yet manageable, taste of Copenhagen.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking value and authentic insight into Copenhagen, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and local stories. The inclusion of a ferry ride makes the experience stand out, giving you a relaxing break and a fresh perspective on the city’s waterways.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, and many reviews highlight how much they appreciated having a small, friendly group. The tour’s pacing is just right—covering major landmarks while allowing time for photos, stories, and reflection.

While weather can be unpredictable, the guide’s readiness to adapt ensures that you’ll still get a memorable experience. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy walking and sightseeing, and for those looking for an efficient yet immersive introduction to Copenhagen.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, including walking and the ferry ride.

What sights are included?
You’ll see Copenhagen Central Station, Tivoli Gardens, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn, Little Mermaid, Kastellet, Amalienborg Palace, and more.

Is the ferry ride included?
Yes, the ferry ride is part of the tour, about 25 minutes, sailing through key canals.

What happens if the ferry is full or canceled?
The guide will adapt by taking a scenic walking route along the canals, still covering the main sights.

Do I need to reserve seats on the ferry?
No, it’s a public ferry, so seats are first-come, first-served. Weekdays are usually quieter.

Can I join if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves moderate walking and some standing, so it’s best suited for those with reasonable mobility.

What time does the tour start?
You can choose a 09:00 AM or 1:00 PM start, depending on your schedule.

Is there a chance to see the Changing of the Guards?
Yes, the 09:00 AM tour concludes with the full Changing of the Guards at noon; the 1:00 PM tour offers a smaller version.

How many people are in each group?
Maximum group size is 12, providing a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for photos are recommended.

Whether you’re craving a comprehensive city overview or a fun, scenic adventure, this tour offers a balanced, authentic glimpse of Copenhagen that many travelers cherish. It’s an excellent choice for those who value local stories, scenic water views, and a personal touch in their sightseeing.