walking tour – Copenhagen and Christiansborg 3 hours

A Practical Guide to the Copenhagen and Christiansborg Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Copenhagen and want to get a solid sense of the city’s main landmarks and history in a short time, this 3-hour walking tour offers a balanced mix of sights, stories, and inside access. Priced at around $86.25 per person, it’s a manageable way to orient yourself, especially if your time in the Danish capital is limited. Led by a knowledgeable guide (though not a local, according to some reviews), you’ll explore the heart of Copenhagen’s old town, with stops at iconic squares, historic churches, and the impressive Christiansborg Palace.

What we love about this tour is how it combines outdoor walking with indoor exploration — particularly the inside visit to Christiansborg, which is a highlight. The tour’s small group size (maximum of 20 travelers) means you’re likely to get a more personalized experience, along with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Plus, the inclusion of free entry to Christiansborg makes this a good value for those wanting to see inside one of Denmark’s most significant royal residences.

A slight consideration is that some travelers, like Isabelle, noted that the background information provided during the walk was somewhat limited, and the guide was not a local. If you’re craving deeply local insights or more detailed storytelling, this might be a factor to keep in mind. Still, if you’re after a well-structured overview with inside access, it’s a solid choice.

This tour will suit travelers who appreciate a balanced, informative introduction to Copenhagen’s most important sights, especially those who enjoy walking and want a bit of inside access without overextending their schedule. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a taste of the city’s culture, history, and architecture.

Key Points

• Concise and comprehensive: Covers major landmarks within just 3 hours, making it ideal for a quick orientation.
• Inside access: Entry to Christiansborg Palace offers a rare look inside a significant royal residence and government building.
• Guided expertise: Led by a knowledgeable guide, although not a local, providing context and stories.
• Value for money: Includes entrance fees and a guided walk at a reasonable price.
• Small group size: Ensures more personal attention and interaction.
• Limited background detail: Some reviews mention that information might be somewhat basic or not deeply local.

Exploring the Copenhagen and Christiansborg Walking Tour in Detail

Starting Point: Copenhagen Central Station

Your journey begins at the central hub of the city, Copenhagen Central Station. From here, you step into the heart of Denmark’s capital, ready to explore its most visible and significant sights. The easy proximity to public transportation means you could easily fit this tour into a day filled with other activities or sightseeing.

The Arch of Tivoli and Its History

Your first notable stop is the entrance to Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s historic amusement park. While only a brief visit, it’s an iconic symbol of the city, opening in 1843, and a reminder of Copenhagen’s long tradition of leisure and entertainment. The guide will share snippets about the park’s history, its role in Danish culture, and its significance as one of the world’s oldest amusement parks.

City Hall Square (Radhuspladsen)

Next, you’ll arrive at City Hall Square, a bustling hub of activity. This is where Copenhagen’s impressive City Hall stands — a building that combines Neo-Gothic and Renaissance influences, constructed between 1892 and 1905. It’s a focal point for local events and protests, and the square itself is lively, often filled with street performers and vendors.

Here, you’ll appreciate the lively atmosphere and get a sense of how the city’s civic life unfolds. It’s also a good spot for photos and observing everyday Copenhagen.

Historical Squares: Gammeltorv and Nytorv

Continuing along the old town’s streets, you’ll pass through Gammeltorv and Nytorv, Copenhagen’s oldest squares. These areas are the backbone of the city’s historic core, dating back to the 12th century. The buildings here, mostly reconstructed after the devastating fire of 1795, are mostly Neoclassical and give you a real sense of Copenhagen’s architectural evolution.

A key feature here is the Caritas Well, a Renaissance fountain from 1610, built by King Christian IV. The square also features the imposing Copenhagen Court House, which served as the city hall from 1815 to 1905.

The Church of Our Lady (Copenhagen Cathedral)

Next, you’ll visit Copenhagen’s main church, the Church of Our Lady. Designed by C.F. Hansen in the Neo-Classicist style, the church has stood since 1829 and replaces an earlier church originally built around 1200. The site has been a religious center since Bishop Absalon, Copenhagen’s founder, built a small chapel here.

This church has been witness to many important Danish moments, including royal marriages and funerals, and even the funeral of philosopher Søren Kierkegaard in 1855. It’s a serene spot amid the city’s busy streets, and you’ll get a quick look inside.

Hoejbro Plads and Gammelt Strand

Moving towards the Christianborg Palace, you’ll stop at Hoejbro Plads, a lively square that dates back to medieval times. Facing the Palace, it’s a hub of activity and history, named in honor of the warrior-bishop traditionally credited with founding Copenhagen.

On the south side, you’ll see the Slotsholmens Canal and colorful 18th and 19th-century houses lining the square, giving it a picturesque charm. It’s a great place to soak in the local atmosphere and observe daily city life.

Christiansborg Palace: The Crown Jewel

The tour culminates with a visit inside Christiansborg Palace, the seat of Denmark’s Parliament, Supreme Court, and Ministry of State. Once the official residence of Danish royalty, the palace now functions as a hub of political and ceremonial activity.

You’ll have approximately an hour to explore the Royal Reception Rooms and the Banquet Hall — rooms decorated with royal insignia, historic art, and elegant furnishings. This inside visit offers an exclusive glimpse into Denmark’s royal and political history, which travelers often find fascinating.

Note: Entrance to Christiansborg is included in the tour price, so you won’t have to worry about extra fees. The experience ends here, at the Palace, allowing you to continue exploring the city on your own afterward.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour is designed for convenience and insight. It starts at Copenhagen Central Station at 9:00 am, a location that’s easy to access via public transport. The walking pace is moderate, suitable for most ages and fitness levels, and the whole experience lasts approximately three hours.

While the group size limits to 20 travelers, some reviews indicate that the guide’s storytelling might be somewhat brief, and not all are local, which could impact the depth of cultural insights. Still, the insider access to Christiansborg is a notable perk, especially given the cost.

As for price, the inclusion of entry to a major palace makes this a good value for those interested in Danish royalty and governance. However, if you’re looking for a highly detailed or deeply local guide, you might find the background information somewhat basic.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors to Copenhagen wanting a structured overview of the city’s most important sights. It’s ideal for those with limited time who want a combination of outdoor sightseeing and inside access. It also appeals to travelers interested in the royal and political history of Denmark, thanks to the Christiansborg visit.

If you enjoy walking tours that combine historical context with a chance to see the city’s vibrant squares, churches, and government buildings, this is a good choice. Those seeking an in-depth, local-led narrative might prefer a different guide or tour.

Final Thoughts

This walk through Copenhagen offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s most recognizable landmarks and history. The inclusion of inside access to Christiansborg Palace elevates what might otherwise be a typical sightseeing walk, providing a tangible connection to Danish monarchy and governance.

The small-group format and guided storytelling make it easier to stay engaged, and the price, considering the entrance fee, is reasonable. The tour’s highlights, like the historic squares, the neo-classical church, and the palace interiors, create a memorable snapshot of Copenhagen’s culture and history.

If you’re after a convenient, informative, and culturally enriching experience in the Danish capital, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling combined with exclusive inside visits—a valuable way to begin any Copenhagen adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering key sites and including an inside visit to Christiansborg Palace.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Copenhagen Central Station, a central and accessible location near public transportation.

Is entry to Christiansborg Palace included?
Yes, the tour price covers the admission fee for inside access to Christiansborg Palace.

What sights will we see?
You’ll visit Tivoli’s main entrance, City Hall Square, Gammeltorv and Nytorv squares, Church of Our Lady, Hoejbro Plads, and the inside of Christiansborg Palace.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 20 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the entrance fee to Christiansborg is included. Optional gratitudes or coffee are not included.

Is the guide local?
Not necessarily. Some reviews note the guide was not a local, which might influence the depth of some cultural insights.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the moderate pace and accessible sites make it suitable for most travelers, but always consider mobility needs.

Can I book this tour well in advance?
Yes, on average, it’s booked about 34 days ahead, which helps in planning your trip.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as it’s a walking tour.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Copenhagen tour aligns with your interests and travel style. Whether you’re after a quick, enriching overview or a taste of Danish royal history, it offers a practical and engaging introduction to one of Europe’s most charming capitals.