Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards

Name: Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards
Brand: Cool Destinations
SKU: 1173841
Price: 310.5 DKK
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.92 (994 reviews)

994 Reviews |

Recommended by 99% of reviewers

Badge of Excellence | Copenhagen, Denmark

or call us

Chat now

Add to Wishlist

3 hours (approx.)

Mobile ticket

Instant confirmation

Offered in: English

Overview

Experience the best of the city with a local host on this intermediate-level combined walking and canal tour by Go Like a Local. Discover top sights, hidden gems & enjoy a 25-minute harbor ferry ride, ending with the Changing of the Guards at the royal palace.

Note: This walking tour requires a steady pace and is not suitable for those with walking difficulties.

We begin with a 1-hour walk before boarding the electric harbor ferry, (if it´s not full). Your host shares stories, and tips as we glide through the city’s waterways.

After the ferry, we continue on foot, passing the 1600s fortress and the Little Mermaid. A short café stop offers time to rest before reaching Amalienborg Palace.

The 9:00 & 09:30 AM tours finish with the full Changing of the Guards at noon. Later departures include a smaller version of the ceremony.

If the ferry is full or out of service (rare, mostly weekends), we follow the scenic canal route on foot instead, covering the full itinerary with 2 extra km.

What's Included

Born-and-raised local host
Personal recommendations
Harbor ferry ride through the canals included
Premium small groups

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Banegårdspladsen 7
1570 København, Denmark

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Amalienborg Slotsplads
København, Denmark

The tour ends at Amalienborg Castle, near the metro and just a 10-minute walk from Kongens Nytorv and Nyhavn. On the 09:00 and 09:30 tours, you’ll arrive just in time to see the Changing of the Guards – a memorable way to finish!

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.

Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

Banegårdspladsen 7

Copenhagen Central Station – where our local adventure beginsWe meet inside Copenhagen Central Station, right in the middle of the main hall, beneath the large round analog clock next to the 7-Eleven. (There are two 7-Elevens, so look for the one by the clock.) It’s an easy and central spot — a classic Copenhagen meeting point that almost every Dane has used at some point in their life.Our small-group walking tour begins here, at the city’s historic and bustling transport hub. For more than a century, this grand station has connected locals, travelers, and stories from near and far — making it the perfect place to begin your journey through the city.Before we head out, your local guide will share the story behind this landmark and set the tone for your authentic Copenhagen experience, blending history, culture, and the everyday rhythm of local life.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens – where history, magic, and inspiration meetWe’ll stop outside the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks, and a true cultural landmark in the heart of Copenhagen. Founded in 1843, Tivoli has captivated visitors for generations with its timeless charm, twinkling lights, and romantic atmosphere — a place where locals and travelers alike come to feel a touch of wonder.From the outside, you’ll get a glimpse of the historic entrance and ornate pavilions, and I’ll share the fascinating story of how Tivoli inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland after his visit here in the 1950s. Beyond the rides, Tivoli represents the very essence of Danish “hygge”, creativity, and design — a living symbol of how Copenhagen blends tradition, art, and joy into everyday life.A short stop, but one that captures the city’s playful soul and its enduring love for imagination.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Glyptoteket – art, architecture, and elegance in the heart of CopenhagenWe’ll pause outside the magnificent Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, one of Copenhagen’s most stunning landmarks. Founded by Carl Jacobsen, the visionary behind Carlsberg, this museum is celebrated not only for its world-class art collection but also for its impressive architecture and iconic glass dome.From the outside, you’ll admire the building’s elegant façade, rich details, and the lush tropical winter garden visible beneath the dome, a perfect blend of culture, history, and beauty right in the city center.A short stop, but one that captures the grandeur and creative spirit of Copenhagen.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Christiansborg Slot

Christiansborg Palace – power, politics, and royal historyTogether, we’ll explore the fascinating story of Christiansborg Palace, a place that has shaped Denmark for more than 800 years. Built on the ruins of the city’s first castle, this site has been home to kings, queens, and politicians, and today it houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Royal Reception Rooms.Standing here, you’re quite literally at the heart of Danish democracy. I’ll share how the palace has burned down three times, each time rebuilt to reflect the spirit of its era, from royal grandeur to modern politics. You’ll hear about royal ceremonies, power struggles, and the everyday workings of a monarchy that learned to share power with the people.A stop that perfectly blends royal history, architecture, and modern-day democracy, showing how Copenhagen’s past and present coexist in one remarkable place.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Det Kgl. Bibliotek

The Black Diamond – where culture meets the waterfrontWe’ll conclude this part of our walk at the Black Diamond, one of Copenhagen’s most striking pieces of modern architecture. With its sleek black granite façade reflecting the harbor, the building stands as both a cultural landmark and the home of the Royal Danish Library – a meeting point for art, literature, and local life.Here, history meets innovation. Locals come to study, attend concerts, and enjoy the waterfront cafés, while the building itself mirrors the city’s blend of tradition and modern design.From here, we’ll continue with a scenic canal and harbor tour, boarding the electric harbor bus for a relaxed ride along the city’s waterways. This part of the journey offers unique views of Copenhagen from the water – from the Opera House and Amalienborg Palace to colorful houseboats and hidden corners of the canals that most visitors never see.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Havnebussen

Copenhagen Canal Experience – scenic, local, and sustainableThe experience includes a relaxing canal tour on Copenhagen’s electric harbor ferry, a sustainable and authentic way to explore the city from the water. As we glide through the canals, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Opera House, Amalienborg Palace, and colorful Nyhavn, highlights that make this one of the best short canal experiences in Copenhagen.On weekdays, we often have the ferry to ourselves, making it a peaceful and local experience. Since it’s part of the public harbor and canal network, seats can’t be reserved, and on weekends it may be full or canceled.If that happens, we simply walk the scenic route, passing the same beautiful waterfront areas. With a total walking distance of about 6–7 km instead of 5.

25 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Børsen (pass by)

The Old Stock Exchange – history, tragedy, and resilienceAs we cruise through the canals on our Copenhagen canal tour, we’ll pass the Old Stock Exchange (Børsen) – one of the city’s most historic and distinctive landmarks. Built in the early 1600s, it’s famous for its dragon-spire roof, where four intertwined dragon tails spiral toward the sky.In April 2024, a devastating fire severely damaged the building, but restoration work is already underway to bring this architectural gem back to life, a powerful symbol of Copenhagen’s resilience and deep respect for its history.

Copenhagen Opera House

The Royal Danish Opera House, modern elegance by the waterAs we cruise through Copenhagen’s scenic canals on our Copenhagen canal tour, you’ll enjoy a fantastic view of the Royal Danish Opera House, a striking masterpiece of modern Danish architecture rising gracefully from the harborfront.Designed by Henning Larsen, one of Denmark’s most celebrated architects, the Opera House is among the most expensive ever built and a proud symbol of the nation’s commitment to art, design, and innovation.Seen from the water, its sweeping roof and clean lines reflect both Scandinavian minimalism and the city’s deep connection to the sea, a perfect example of Copenhagen’s blend of culture and craftsmanship.

1 minute • Admission Ticket Free

Nyhavn

As we cruise through the canals on our Copenhagen canal tour, we’ll make a brief but beautiful Pass by at Nyhavn, the city’s most iconic harbor. Once a busy trade port filled with merchants and sailors, Nyhavn is now one of Copenhagen’s most beloved gathering places, lined with colorful 17th-century houses, historic wooden ships, and vibrant cafés spilling onto the waterfront.From the water, you’ll see why this place has inspired artists, poets, and travelers for centuries. The reflections of the painted façades dance across the canal, creating one of the most photographed views in Denmark.It’s the kind of spot that feels both lively and timeless, and the perfect place to return to after the tour for a drink, a meal, or simply to enjoy the atmosphere by the harbor.

1 minute • Admission Ticket Free

The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid – Copenhagen’s timeless fairy taleAfter our harbor and canal tour, we’ll visit one of Copenhagen’s most beloved landmarks, The Little Mermaid. Here, you’ll hear the story behind Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale and how this modest bronze statue became a symbol of Copenhagen and of Denmark itself.Quietly watching over the harbor since 1913, she remains a reminder of the city’s creative soul and its deep connection to art, storytelling, and the sea.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Gefionspringvandet

Gefion Fountain – where Nordic myth meets the Copenhagen waterfrontAfter getting off the harbor ferry, we’ll take a short walk to the Gefion Fountain, one of Copenhagen’s most impressive landmarks. Beautifully placed between the harbor, Kastellet Fortress, and the promenade leading to the Little Mermaid, this spectacular monument brings Nordic mythology to life.Here, I’ll share the story of Gefion, the Norse goddess who, according to legend, plowed the island of Zealand from Sweden using her four mighty oxen. With its cascading water, dramatic bronze figures, and scenic location by the water, the fountain perfectly blends mythology, history, and art — a highlight that beautifully connects ancient legend with modern Copenhagen.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kastellet

Kastellet – history, nature, and everyday life inside the fortressAs part of our walk, we’ll explore Kastellet, one of the best-preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe. Built in the 1600s to defend Copenhagen, this impressive site is still an active military area, yet it remains one of the city’s most peaceful green spaces.As we stroll along the grassy ramparts and cobbled paths, you’ll see the iconic windmill, charming red-brick barracks, and perhaps even spot the resident swans gliding in the moat. It’s a beautiful blend of history, nature, and everyday Danish life, showing how the past and present coexist in the heart of Copenhagen.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Churchillparken

Churchill Park – remembrance and reflection in the heart of CopenhagenChurchill Park is a quiet green oasis beside Kastellet Fortress and near The Little Mermaid, dedicated to the Danish resistance fighters of World War II. The park honors those who fought for Denmark’s freedom through memorials, sculptures, and a statue of Winston Churchill overlooking the harbor.During our Copenhagen walking tour, it’s a peaceful and meaningful stop where history and nature meet, a place to pause, reflect, and appreciate the courage that helped shape modern Denmark.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kastelsmøllen

Kastellet, one of Europe’s best-preserved star fortresses, is a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Built in the 17th century, this historic military site offers a peaceful escape with its grassy ramparts and scenic surroundings.On this stop, we’ll walk along the fortress walls, taking in panoramic views of the area and enjoying the serene atmosphere. As we stroll, we’ll see Kastelmøllen, a charming old windmill that stands as a reminder of the fortress’s utilitarian past.Kastellet is more than just a historical site – it’s a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, where the past meets the present in one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque settings.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Frederiks Kirke (Marmorkirken)

The Marble Church – royal views and timeless architectureMarvel at the breathtaking Marble Church, officially known as Frederik’s Church, one of Copenhagen’s most beautiful architectural landmarks. Completed in 1894 after more than 150 years of construction, this masterpiece features one of the largest domes in Europe, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.As part of our Copenhagen walking tour, we’ll pause here to explore its fascinating story, from the ambitious 18th-century vision that nearly bankrupted the project to its eventual rebirth as a symbol of both royal pride and national faith.From this spot, you’ll also enjoy stunning views of Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family, perfectly aligned with the church’s grand dome, one of the most striking sights in the city.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Amalienborg Palace Museum

Step into the heart of Danish royalty at Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family since 1794. This stunning complex consists of four identical Rococo-style palaces surrounding an elegant octagonal courtyard, with the equestrian statue of King Frederik V as its centerpiece.As we explore the area, you’ll learn about the history of the monarchy, the daily routines of the royal family, and the significance of the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, which takes place here every day at 12.00. From the courtyard, enjoy beautiful views of the Marble Church and the waterfront, showcasing Copenhagen's blend of history and charm.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Changing of her Majesty's guard at Amalienborg Castle

End Point: Amalienborg Palace – Changing of the GuardsOur tour concludes at Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family and one of Copenhagen’s most elegant squares.If you join the 09:00 AM or =9.30 AM tour, we’ll arrive just in time for the full Changing of the Guards at 12:00 PM, the grand daily ceremony where the soldiers march into the square, often accompanied by the Royal Danish Band. You’ll have the perfect vantage point to experience this classic royal tradition up close.For those joining the 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM tours, we end at the same location, where you’ll witness a smaller, quieter guard change as the new shift relieves the old. Though less ceremonial, it offers a more authentic glimpse into the rhythm of royal life at Amalienborg, an intimate ending to your Copenhagen experience.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Show 16 more stops

Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: Will I get seasick on Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5547220P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.92

994 reviews

Average 4.92 out of 5 stars based on 994 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars

939

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Similar Tours & Activities

Private Glamping at Forest Tower with transportation from CPH

The glamping tents are part of the vision to create Scandinavia's leading nature attraction. The tents are inspired by traditional yurts from the plains of...

2 days • Hotel pickup offered

from
$1,406.68

4.5 (28)

Copenhagen: Little Mermaid Fairy Tale Quest

A mysterious voice calls your name through Copenhagen. Follow it from the Royal Danish Theatre through Nyhavn's canal houses to the Little Mermaid statue at...

2 to 3 hours • Free Cancellation

4.5 (28)

from
$8.10

5.0 (2)

3 hour Copenhagen Combined Food and Guided E-Bike Tour

Copenhagen E-Bike Food Tour: Discover the City’s Sights and Bites! Tour Duration: 3 Hours Food Stops: 3 (includes tastings and small meals) Embark on an...

3 hours 15 minutes • Free Cancellation

5.0 (2)

from
$155.62

4.9 (24)

E-Scooter "Stand Up Kick Bike" 2 Hour Guided Copenhagen Tour

Bike Copenhagen & Copenhagen Segway have 15 years of experience with well educated guides and staff. You´ll discover 90% of the highlights of Copenhagen with...

2 hours 15 minutes • Free Cancellation

4.9 (24)

from
$66.29

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

4.9 (525)

Segway Tours Copenhagen w. Guide & Concierge Service. 2 Hours+

Explore Copenhagen on a fun 2-hour-long Segway tour. After getting your necessary equipment and Segway, you will depart with your guide, who will provide live...

2 hours 15 minutes • Free Cancellation

4.9 (525)

from
$81.88

4.8 (2,313)

Hamlet and Sweden Tour - Two Countries in one day!

Join us in a full day's tour to Hamlet's Castle, where we travel up the coast road, Strandvejen and arrive in the charming old town...

8 to 9 hours • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation

4.8 (2,313)

from
$122.43

4.6 (958)

Copenhagen Card - DISCOVER 80+ attractions and public transport

Make the most of Denmark’s vibrant capital with a money-saving COPENHAGEN CARD - DISCOVER. Get unlimited pubic transport in the entire capital region and free...

1 to 5 days • Free Cancellation

4.6 (958)

from
$92.06

5.0 (106)

1 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour

Discover Copenhagen the fast, fun, and eco-friendly way—by Segway! Picture yourself cruising effortlessly through the Copenhagen, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. This tour...

1 hour 15 minutes • Free Cancellation

5.0 (106)

from
$65.51

Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards

from $46.85 per person

Overview

What's Included

Meeting Location

What To Expect

Additional Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Cancellation Policy

Still have questions?

Traveler Photos

Reviews

Similar Tours & Activities

Private Glamping at Forest Tower with transportation from CPH

Copenhagen: Little Mermaid Fairy Tale Quest

3 hour Copenhagen Combined Food and Guided E-Bike Tour

E-Scooter "Stand Up Kick Bike" 2 Hour Guided Copenhagen Tour

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Segway Tours Copenhagen w. Guide & Concierge Service. 2 Hours+

Hamlet and Sweden Tour - Two Countries in one day!

Copenhagen Card - DISCOVER 80+ attractions and public transport

1 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour

Last Minute Availability

Popular Copenhagen Searches

Accessible Copenhagen Tours & Activities

Popular Copenhagen Attractions

Places Nearby Copenhagen

Popular Cities

Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards

from $46.85 per person

Overview

What's Included

Meeting Location

What To Expect

Additional Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Cancellation Policy

Still have questions?

Traveler Photos

Reviews

Additional Info

Similar Tours & Activities

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Last Minute Availability

Popular Copenhagen Searches

Accessible Copenhagen Tours & Activities

Popular Copenhagen Attractions

Places Nearby Copenhagen

Popular Cities

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

What's Included

Additional Info

Protecting you

Report Product Issue

Site Settings

Currency

Lowest Price Guarantee

We Make It Easy!

Refund Terms & Conditions

Free Cancellation

Sorting, ranking, and search results

Cool Support

Choose an option

Cool Rewards Terms & Conditions