Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale

The Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale offers a compact yet immersive way to explore the Danish capital in just about 3 hours. Priced at $62.96 per person, this tour is ideal for those who want an active, varied experience combining walking, scenic ferry rides, and key sights with a friendly small group of no more than 12 travelers. The guide, Michael, who boasts over 20 years of guiding experience, ensures a lively and informative journey through Copenhagen’s most recognizable landmarks and hidden corners.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance between on-foot exploration of major sites and the water-based perspective offered by the included electric harbor ferry. The ferry ride alone provides notable views of the city’s canals, including the Royal Danish Opera House and Nyhavn, making it a memorable part of the experience. A key highlight is the full Changing of the Guards at Amalienborg Palace, a classic Copenhagen moment that occurs at 12:00 PM if you join the morning tour.

While the tour is fast-paced, it offers a well-rounded introduction to Copenhagen’s landmarks, history, and culture. The small group size allows for personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want to see the city’s essential sights without feeling rushed. A slight drawback is that on weekends or in rare cases, the ferry might be full or canceled, in which case the route is adapted to be entirely on land, covering all key highlights.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $62.96 and lasts around 3 hours.
• Includes Ferry Ride: A scenic 25-minute ferry through Copenhagen’s historic canals.
• Highlights & Stops: Major landmarks like Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, Little Mermaid, Kastellet, and Amalienborg Palace.
• Guide Quality: Led by Michael, with over 20 years of experience and praised for his knowledge and friendly style.
• Full Changing of the Guards: Witness the ceremonial guard change at 12:00 PM if taking the morning tour.
• Flexible Route: In rare cases when the ferry is unavailable, the route shifts to land, still covering all main sights.

Starting Point at Copenhagen Central Station

The tour begins at Copenhagen Central Station, a bustling hub and iconic historic site. Here, the guide introduces Copenhagen’s layout and sets the stage for the exploration ahead. This spot is perfect for travelers arriving by train or public transportation, ensuring easy access to the start of the adventure.

Visiting Tivoli Gardens Outside the Entrance

A quick stop outside Tivoli Gardens allows for a glance at one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. The history of Tivoli fascinates many, especially its influence on Walt Disney’s inspiration. The tour doesn’t include entry, but the outside view hints at the playful atmosphere and historical charm within.

Admiring Glyptoteket’s Grand Façade and Tropical Garden

Next, the guide points out Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an architectural jewel founded by Carl Jacobsen, a brewery founder. Its impressive exterior features a grand façade and the glass dome of the tropical winter garden inside. This stop offers a taste of culture and elegance without an entry fee, providing an excellent photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate artistic architecture.

Exploring Christiansborg Slot and Its Political Significance

A walk along Christiansborg Palace reveals its role as Denmark’s seat of democracy. The guide shares stories of kings and queens, connecting history to the present day. This site underscores Copenhagen’s political and royal heritage, making it a stop with both historical depth and modern relevance.

Scenic Ride on Copenhagen’s Electric Harbor Ferry

The included 25-minute ferry ride is a highlight, offering views of the city’s canals and landmarks like the Old Stock Exchange (Børsen), which suffered damage from a 2024 fire but is under restoration. During the cruise, travelers see the Royal Danish Opera House and get photo-worthy shots of Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid.

The ferry is a public vessel, so seats are not reservable. On weekends or during full capacity, it may be canceled or crowded, but the guide adapts by taking a scenic walking route that covers the same key sights along the canal.

Iconic Landmarks from the Water: Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid

The cruise passes by Nyhavn, with its colorful historic townhouses and lively atmosphere, and the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale. These stops are brief but offer great photo opportunities and stories about their cultural significance.

Architectural Marvel: Copenhagen Opera House

A quick vista of the Opera House from the water reveals Henning Larsen’s modern design, recognized as one of the most costly and iconic opera venues. This moment highlights Copenhagen’s blend of historic and contemporary architecture.

Walking Tour of Kastellet and Gefionspringvandet

The star-shaped fortress Kastellet is a highlight, still an active military site and a peaceful green space. The guide walks you through its historic ramparts, windmill, and barracks, offering panoramic views and a touch of military history. Nearby, Gefionspringvandet, the Norse goddess Gefion driving oxen, provides a mythological and artistic stop, perfect for photos and storytelling.

Exploring Churchillparken and the Marble Church

The tour takes a relaxing pause at Churchillparken, dedicated to Danish resistance fighters and featuring monuments and statues including that of Winston Churchill. From there, the Marble Church (Frederiks Kirke) impresses with its large dome and Romanesque architecture, offering stunning views of Amalienborg Palace.

Royal Residence and the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg

The tour concludes at Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family. If joining the morning tour, visitors arrive just in time for the full Changing of the Guards at 12:00 PM, an event with marching guards and sometimes music. The afternoon tour features a smaller, more relaxed guard change.

This final stop offers insight into royal traditions and Danish monarchy, closing the experience on a noteworthy cultural note.

Final Thoughts on the Copenhagen Highlights Tour

This 3-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Copenhagen’s top sights with friendly expert guidance. The combination of walking, ferry rides, and iconic landmarks makes for a dynamic experience that appeals to first-time visitors or those with limited time. The small group size enhances the personalized feel, and the full schedule is praised for coverage and storytelling.

A notable benefit is the ferry ride, which provides unique water views and the chance to see multiple key sites from the canal. The changing of the guards at Amalienborg Palace remains a captivating tradition that many visitors find memorable.

While ferry availability on weekends can be a minor limitation, the adapting route still ensures you see all the main sights. The knowledgeable guide, value for money, and well-paced itinerary make this tour a strong choice for exploring Copenhagen in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ferry ride included in the tour price?
Yes, the 25-minute ferry ride is part of the tour package included in the $62.96 price.

What happens if the ferry is full or canceled?
In rare cases when the ferry is unavailable or full, the guide takes a scenic walking route along the canal that covers all main highlights.

Where does the tour end?
The tour finalizes at Amalienborg Palace, near Kongens Nytorv and Nyhavn, perfect for further exploration or transportation.

Can I see the Changing of the Guards if I join the afternoon tour?
Yes, the afternoon tour ends with a smaller version of the Changing of the Guards, offering an authentic, less crowded experience.

How long in advance should I book?
The tour is often booked around 57 days in advance and is highly rated, with a 5.0/5 from 152 reviews.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness to comfortably keep pace with the walking and standing involved.

Are the stops accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most stops are on paved paths or public areas, but the tour’s small group style allows some flexibility; specific access needs should be discussed beforehand.

What are the reviews saying about this tour?
Excellent ratings highlight the knowledgeable guides, scenic ferry ride, and efficient coverage of Copenhagen’s key sites. Some note the tour’s value for money and personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The unique combination of walking, ferry, and royal tradition makes this tour a balanced, engaging, and comprehensive introduction to Copenhagen.