walking tour – Copenhagen and Christiansborg 3 hours

Discover Copenhagen with a 3-Hour Walking Tour and Inside Christiansborg Palace

For those seeking a well-organized overview of Copenhagen’s top sights, this 3-hour walking tour offers the perfect introduction. Priced at $86.25 per person, it combines a guided stroll through the city’s historic neighborhoods with an exclusive inside visit to Christiansborg Palace. The tour departs from Copenhagen Central Station and ends at the palace, making it convenient for travelers planning their day.

What sets this tour apart is its inclusion of entry inside Christiansborg, allowing visitors to see the Royal Reception Rooms and Banquet Hall—a rare opportunity to explore a working palace. Guided by a local guide, participants get a solid grounding in Copenhagen’s history and culture, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a structured sightseeing experience.

While the tour offers a rundown, it’s worth noting that the guide may not be a local—a point mentioned in a less enthusiastic review—and the background information provided might be limited for some visitors. Still, the main landmarks and inside access make this tour a valuable addition to any Copenhagen itinerary.

Key Points

• Includes entrance to Christiansborg Palace and its Royal Reception Rooms
• Guided walk through Copenhagen’s most iconic neighborhoods and squares
• Stops at main landmarks such as City Hall Square and Copenhagen Cathedral
• Duration of about 3 hours, perfect for a quick yet enriching overview
• Small group size with a maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personalized experience
• Priced at $86.25, with booking made 34 days in advance on average

Starting Point at Copenhagen Central Station

This tour begins at Copenhagen Central Station at 9:00 am, a central and accessible meeting point ideal for travelers arriving by train or public transport. The starting location makes it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. The tour concludes at Christiansborg Palace, specifically at the castle shop exits, making it convenient for those planning to continue exploring the area afterward.

Exploring the Main Entrance and History of the Amusement Park

The tour kicks off with a visit to the main entrance of the amusement park, which has been operating for 175 years. The guide shares the park’s history, setting an engaging tone for the walk ahead. This stop offers insight into Copenhagen’s entertainment past and how it fits into the city’s broader history.

Visiting Radhuspladsen (City Hall Square)

Next, the tour visits City Hall Square (Radhuspladsen), where the iconic City Hall stands. This free stop provides a quick overview of one of Copenhagen’s most celebrated squares, giving visitors the chance to appreciate its neoclassical architecture. The square’s history dates back to the 12th century, with many buildings reconstructed after the Great Fire of 1795.

Exploring Old Market Square and Nytorv

A highlight is the visit to Old Market Square (Gammeltorv), which, along with Nytorv, forms a lively pedestrian space along Strøget, Copenhagen’s main shopping street. The area features the Caritas Well, a renaissance fountain from 1610, and the Copenhagen Court House, which also served as the City Hall from 1815-1905. These sites offer a glimpse into the city’s architectural evolution and social history.

Visiting Copenhagen Cathedral (Church of Our Lady)

The tour stops at the Copenhagen Cathedral, designed in Neo-Classicist style by C.F. Hansen. Founded on a site with religious significance since around 1200, the church has hosted many historic events, including the wedding of Margrethe I in 1363 and the funeral of Søren Kierkegaard in 1855. The free entry makes this a meaningful stop for those interested in Danish religious architecture and history.

Discovering Hoejbro Plads and the Christianborg Area

At Hoejbro Plads, the guide explains the square’s history, including its connection to medieval tournaments and its role as a contemporary dynamic square facing Christianborg Palace. The colorful 18th and 19th-century houses lining the square add charm to this central location. The square’s history and architecture deepen understanding of Copenhagen’s urban development.

Inside Christiansborg Palace: Royal Reception Rooms and Banquet Hall

The tour’s highlight is the inside visit to Christiansborg Palace, where the guide leads guests through the Royal Reception Rooms and Banquet Hall. This part of the tour lasts around an hour and includes entry tickets. Visitors get a rare opportunity to see the official residence of the Danish royal family and explore areas not usually open to the public.

Practicalities and Group Size

This small-group tour, capped at 20 participants, offers a more personalized experience. The mobile ticket system ensures smooth entry, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking. The tour does not include gratuities or refreshments but offers inside access to a significant historical site, making the price reasonable.

Limitations and Considerations

A review mentions that the guide was not a local and that the background information might be limited, which could affect those seeking deeply detailed storytelling. Plus, the duration at each stop is brief, so visitors looking for extensive historical narratives might find it somewhat superficial. The overall value lies in the combination of walking, key landmark visits, and the inside tour of Christiansborg Palace.

The Sum Up: A Solid Intro to Copenhagen’s Highlights

This 3-hour walking tour is well-suited for visitors wanting a structured overview of Copenhagen, with the bonus of inside access to Christiansborg Palace. The tour’s combination of outdoor landmarks and interior exploration provides a memorable glimpse into the city’s history and royal heritage.

While the guide’s background may not satisfy those craving in-depth local storytelling, the efficient itinerary, small group size, and notable landmarks make this tour a practical choice for those with limited time or first-time visitors. It offers good value for the price and a reliable way to get oriented before exploring independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include any transportation?
No, this is a walk-only tour starting from Copenhagen Central Station and ending at Christiansborg Palace.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, entry to Christiansborg Palace and its Royal Reception Rooms is included in the tour price.

How long is the inside tour of Christiansborg Palace?
The inside visit lasts approximately an hour.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
While specific accessibility details are not provided, the tour is designed to be about 3 hours of walking, so some mobility considerations may apply.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is there a guide available in multiple languages?
The data does not specify language options, but the guide is described as local, and the tour is operated by Scandinavian Guides.

What is the timing of the tour?
The tour departs daily at 9:00 am.

Is there a recommended age or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but specific physical or age restrictions are not detailed.

What else can I see if I join this tour?
Besides the main landmarks, you’ll see City Hall Square, Old Market and Nytorv, Copenhagen Cathedral, Hoejbro Plads, and the exterior of Christiansborg Palace before the inside visit.