Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale

Exploring Copenhagen in just a few hours might sound ambitious, but this guided tour manages to pack in a surprising amount of the city’s character and key sights. Starting at Copenhagen Central Station, your guide leads you past landmarks like Tivoli Gardens, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, and Christiansborg Palace, weaving in stories and tidbits along the way. Midway, a scenic 25-minute ferry ride through the city’s historic canals offers a refreshing break and spectacular water views. The tour wraps up with a walk past Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid, and the impressive Kastellet fortress, ending with a ceremonial Changing of the Guards at Amalienborg Palace—an iconic Danish tradition.

What I love about this experience is the blend of walking and water-based sightseeing. The small group size keeps things intimate and allows for personal interaction, while the guide, Michael, is praised for his wealth of local knowledge and friendly demeanor. The inclusion of a ferry ride adds a special touch, giving you a different perspective of the city and a chance to relax amidst the walking. Plus, the tour is well-paced for those with moderate physical fitness, covering about 5 km, but with options for adjustments if the ferry is full or experiences cancellations.

One potential consideration is weather—this tour relies on smooth water travel and outdoor walking, so rain or cold can make parts less comfortable. Also, on weekends, the ferry might be full or canceled, though the guides have a scenic walking alternative ready, ensuring you don’t miss out on the full experience. At just under $63, the tour offers solid value, especially given the variety of sights, stories, and the unique water component.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small group size: Limited to 12 travelers, so you get personalized attention and room to ask questions.
• Diverse itinerary: Combines major sights, hidden gems, water views, and royal traditions.
• Expert guide: Michael’s 20 years of guiding experience and local stories make the experience engaging.
• Water views: The ferry ride is a highlight, offering different perspectives and photo opportunities.
• Flexibility: If the ferry is unavailable, the tour still covers all the main sights, just with a slight walking adjustment.
• Authentic experience: The tour finishes with the Changing of the Guards, one of Copenhagen’s most iconic royal traditions.

A Detailed Look at Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards

Starting Point: Copenhagen Central Station

The tour kicks off in the bustling heart of the city, with Copenhagen Central Station setting the tone—an historic hub full of life. Your guide, Andres or Michael, sets the scene with stories about the station’s history and its role in connecting Copenhagen to Denmark and beyond. It’s a fitting start that grounds you in the city’s vibrant pulse.

Tivoli Gardens: A Fairy Tale Beginning

Just outside Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, you’ll learn how this enchanting spot inspired Walt Disney and shaped amusement park design. While admission isn’t included, the quick stop offers a glimpse into Copenhagen’s playful spirit and historic charm.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek: Art and Architecture

From outside, the Glyptoteket impresses with its grand façade and striking glass dome. Built by Carlsberg’s founder, Carl Jacobsen, it’s a peaceful oasis of sculpture and painting. Though not included in the ticket price, it’s a quick but memorable visual highlight, blending culture and elegance in a single stop.

Christiansborg Slot: Heart of Danish Democracy

A walk past Christiansborg Palace reveals its importance as Denmark’s seat of government. Your guide shares tales of kings, queens, and political history—giving context to this impressive building. It’s a living monument to Denmark’s royal and political legacy.

The Black Diamond: Modern Cultural Landmark

The tour continues at the Black Diamond, the Royal Library’s modern extension. Its sleek glass architecture stands out along the water, perfectly symbolizing Copenhagen’s blend of tradition and innovation.

Scenic Ride on Copenhagen’s Electric Harbor Ferry

The ferry ride is a genuine high point—about 25 minutes of cruising through the city’s historic canals. Many reviews highlight the waterway views, with mentions of iconic sights like the Old Stock Exchange building, which, despite recent fire damage, remains a testament to Copenhagen’s resilience. On weekdays, the ferry often feels like your private boat, but weekends can see full boats or cancellations. When that happens, the guides have a scenic walking route ready, ensuring you still enjoy Copenhagen from the water and along the water.

Exploring the Waterfront: Nyhavn, Opera House, and Little Mermaid

Once on land again, the tour passes Nyhavn with its colorful townhouses—a photographer’s dream—and the Royal Danish Opera House, a striking modern design. The guide shares stories of Hans Christian Andersen and the origins of The Little Mermaid statue, which is often a highlight for visitors. The statue’s story is woven into your guide’s narration, making this iconic figure even more meaningful.

Kastellet Fortress and Mythical Gefionspringvandet

Next, you’ll walk through Kastellet—a star-shaped fortress still in use today—offering both history and green space. Nearby, Gefionspringvandet depicts the Norse goddess Gefion driving oxen, symbolizing Zealand’s creation. Both stops combine mythology, history, and natural beauty, perfect for photos and reflection.

Marveling at Frederiks Kirke (Marmorkirken) and Royal Residences

The tour then takes you to the breathtaking Marble Church, famous for its enormous dome. Its construction took over 150 years, and stories of its challenges make it all the more impressive. From here, you’ll have views of Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family. If your tour includes the full noon Changing of the Guard, you’ll witness a ceremony filled with regal pomp—a popular and memorable event that many reviews praise.

The Royal Realm at Amalienborg

The last stop at Amalienborg Palace offers a peek into royal life. You’ll learn about the history of Danish royalty and see the elegant courtyard. Depending on the tour time—9:00 AM or 1:00 PM—you’ll witness either the full or a smaller version of the Guard change, adding a ceremonial touch to your Copenhagen experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenic water views without overextending themselves. It suits those who appreciate small group settings and knowledgeable guides who weave stories into the sights. If you’re on a layover or short trip but want a rundown, this is a great choice. It’s especially good for first-timers who want to see the main highlights and get a feel for Copenhagen’s unique charm.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

If you’re more focused on deep historical or art exploration, or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit fast. Also, if weather is poor, parts of the water-based experience may be less enjoyable, though the scenic walking route compensates well.

Price and Logistics

At just under $63, this tour offers good value, considering it includes a mix of walking, water, and iconic sights. The small group size and expert guiding elevate the experience, making it feel personalized. The tour’s timing—around three hours—makes it manageable even for busy itineraries. Plus, the option for an early start to catch the Changing of the Guards at noon is a bonus, giving you a classic Copenhagen moment.

Final Thoughts

This guided walk and ferry combo is a solid choice for travelers looking for a comprehensive, engaging, and authentic introduction to Copenhagen. The blend of major sights, hidden corners, and scenic waterways makes it a memorable way to experience the city’s essence. The knowledgeable guide, Michael, receives consistent praise, and the inclusion of water-based travel offers a distinctive perspective you won’t find on all tours.

If you want a tour that balances storytelling, scenery, and history, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those who want value for money and a chance to see Copenhagen from multiple angles—on foot and from the water.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours, including the ferry ride, with some flexibility if the ferry is full or canceled.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided walking and water tour, including the ferry ride and all stops mentioned in the itinerary. Admission to specific sites like Tivoli Gardens or Amalienborg Palace is not included.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves walking about 5 km, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. It’s manageable for most people with reasonable mobility.

What happens if the ferry is full or out of service?
The guide will substitute the ferry with an extended scenic walk along the canals, covering the main sights from the water route.

When does the tour end?
It concludes at Amalienborg Palace, either in time for the full Changing of the Guards at noon (if you start early) or with a smaller guard change in the afternoon.

Can I join the tour if I only have a few hours in Copenhagen?
Yes, it’s designed to fit into a half-day, offering a rundown suited for travelers on a tight schedule.

Are there any special tips for making the most of the tour?
Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for weather—bring layers and rain gear if needed. The small group means you can ask plenty of questions and get personalized insights.

This tour offers an excellent mix of Copenhagen’s highlights, water views, and royal traditions, making it a memorable window into Denmark’s storied capital.