Exploring Copenhagen on a Bike: The Little Mermaid & Hidden Gems
If you’re considering seeing Copenhagen beyond its well-trodden tourist spots, this bike tour offers an engaging way to experience the city’s lesser-known treasures alongside its famous landmarks. Although we haven’t personally pedaled through it, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, authentic adventure that immerses you in the city’s local charm.
What we love about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life, and the stunning views you get while cycling along scenic bridges and through tranquil gardens. On the flip side, a possible consideration might be the weather-dependent nature of outdoor cycling—so dressing accordingly is key.
This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy active outings, want a deep dive into Copenhagen’s neighborhoods, and value expert storytelling. It suits those with a moderate level of cycling comfort and curiosity for both history and local life.
Key Points
- Balanced mix of famous landmarks and hidden gems
- Expert guides enrich the experience with stories and insights
- Ideal for all skill levels thanks to flat terrain and dedicated bike lanes
- 3-hour duration offers a thorough yet relaxed exploration
- Focus on authentic neighborhoods away from tourist crowds
- Weather-ready attire ensures comfort regardless of conditions
An Authentic Way to See Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a city that loves bikes almost as much as it loves pastry shops and cozy cafés. Its extensive network of dedicated bike lanes makes exploring on two wheels both safe and enjoyable. This guided tour takes full advantage of that infrastructure, allowing you to glide smoothly through vibrant neighborhoods and along scenic waterways.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on hidden gems—those small, quiet places that most travelers miss. It’s a chance to see secret gardens, tranquil courtyards, and offbeat churches, giving a more personal view of the city’s cultural fabric. The mix of famous sights like the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace with these lesser-known spots creates a satisfying balance of recognition and discovery.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Copenhagen.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins at Nørre Voldgade 11, conveniently located next to Nørreport station, making it easy for most travelers to access. Once suited up with bikes and safety equipment, you’ll set out with your guide.
The first focus is to explore hidden gardens and secret courtyards. While these peaceful spots are often overlooked by visitors rushing from one major attraction to another, they reveal Copenhagen’s quiet, intimate side. These tranquil spaces are perfect for photos and quiet reflection, contrasting sharply with the busy city streets.
Next, you’ll head toward scenic bridges and backstreets, which introduce you to local neighborhoods brimming with Danish charm. These areas are rich in local art, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, offering insight into daily Copenhagen life. As you cycle, your guide shares fascinating stories—from the city’s architectural evolution to quirky legends—making every stop both educational and entertaining.
The famous landmarks come into view along the way, including the Little Mermaid, perhaps Copenhagen’s most iconic statue. While it can be crowded, viewing it from a bike offers a different perspective—less about the photo op and more about appreciating its place in the city’s cultural landscape.
Another highlight is Amalienborg Palace, where you might catch the Changing of the Guard, depending on timing. The Round Tower is also on the route, providing a chance to appreciate Copenhagen’s historic architecture and sweeping city views from a distance.
The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a solid mental map and newfound appreciation for the city’s balancing act between history, modernity, and hidden local treasures.
What Makes the Guides Stand Out
Based on reviews, the guides truly elevate the experience. Diana and Morgan, mentioned in feedback, are praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness. They tailor routes to traveler interests, making the tour feel personalized rather than cookie-cutter.
One traveler noted, “Along with notable sights and local trivia, she also shared lots of interesting info about everyday life in Copenhagen, the educational, economic, and political systems, along with Danish cultural norms.” This indicates that guides don’t just point out sights but offer a deeper cultural context, enriching your understanding of Denmark’s capital.
Value and Practical Considerations
For around three hours, the tour covers a lot of ground, blending sightseeing with active exploration. The price seems reasonable when considering that guided tours include a knowledgeable guide, bike rental, and safety equipment. Plus, with flexible cancellation policies, booking is low-risk—especially if weather turns sour or plans change.
Cycling through Copenhagen is remarkably easy thanks to flat terrain and well-maintained bike lanes, making this tour suitable for most fitness levels. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but for others, it’s a relaxed, enjoyable ride. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so packing a rain jacket (and suitable shoes) is wise.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Experiences and Local Insights
What sets this tour apart is the combination of famous sights with quiet, secret corners. We loved the way the guide’s stories brought Copenhagen’s history and culture alive in a way that photographs alone can’t capture. The inclusion of local neighborhoods also offers a sense of real life here, beyond the tourist hotspots.
One reviewer mentioned feeling “perfectly safe” riding without helmets despite being accustomed to helmet use in the US. Helmets are optional but offered, illustrating Copenhagen’s safety standards and bike-friendly attitude.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour
If you’re someone who enjoys active sightseeing, appreciates authentic local neighborhoods, and wants a deeper understanding of Copenhagen’s culture, this tour is a winner. It’s ideal for travelers who like engaging guides who share stories and facts, making the experience both fun and educational.
Because it’s accessible thanks to Copenhagen’s flat terrain, even casual cyclists will find this a manageable and enjoyable way to spend a few hours. It’s especially suited for those who want to see both the iconic and the hidden sides of the city, with a flexible and relaxed pace.
Final Thoughts
This bike tour of Copenhagen offers an excellent balance between famous landmarks and quiet treasures. Its knowledgeable guides and scenic routes make it a memorable way to discover the city’s layers of history and modern life. If you’re looking for an authentic, active, and fun exploration that provides a local perspective, this experience is hard to beat.
The tour’s relatively short duration makes it perfect for those wanting a taste of Copenhagen without committing to full-day excursions. Its emphasis on hidden gardens, backstreets, and cultural insights means you’ll leave not only with photos but with stories to tell and a richer appreciation for the city.
Whether you’ve been to Copenhagen before or it’s your first visit, this bike tour will give you a fresh perspective that’s both educational and enjoyable—plus, the stunning views and friendly guides make it a value-packed outing.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels thanks to Copenhagen’s flat terrain and bike-friendly infrastructure.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, dress appropriately for the weather, and consider packing a rain jacket. Comfortable cycling shoes are recommended.
Does the tour include museum visits?
No, the tour does not include museum visits. It focuses on neighborhoods, landmarks, and hidden spots around Copenhagen.
What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Nørre Voldgade 11, next to Nørreport station, at the bike shop “Nørreport Bikes”. Arrive about 5 minutes early.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute bookings are subject to availability.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, covering a mix of sightseeing and local exploration.
Are helmets provided?
Helmets are optional but offered by the guides. You can choose to wear one or not based on your comfort and preference.
In the end, this Copenhagen bike tour offers a practical, fun, and insightful way to discover both the city’s well-known sights and its hidden corners. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to explore with a local’s eye and learn stories that bring Copenhagen to life.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Cycling Tours in Copenhagen
More Tours in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen: The Opera House Guided Tour
- Urban Design and Livability E-bike Tour
- Copenhagen: Private Canal Tour in Vintage Wood Boat w/ Guide
- Copenhagen: Guided tour of the canals by electric boat in French
- Copenhagen Bucket List Tour 8K Run (Tuesday & Saturday)
- Copenhagen: Roskilde, the Viking City Tour in English
More Tour Reviews in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen: The Opera House Guided Tour
- Copenhagen: Cooking Class (Smørrebrød) in private home
- Urban Design and Livability E-bike Tour
- Copenhagen: Private Photoshoot with a Local Photographer
- Copenhagen: Private Canal Tour in Vintage Wood Boat w/ Guide
- Copenhagen: Guided tour of the canals by electric boat in French
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Copenhagen we have reviewed
- Copenhagen: The Opera House Guided Tour
- Copenhagen: Cooking Class (Smørrebrød) in private home
- Urban Design and Livability E-bike Tour
- Copenhagen: Private Photoshoot with a Local Photographer
- Copenhagen: Private Canal Tour in Vintage Wood Boat w/ Guide
- Copenhagen: Guided tour of the canals by electric boat in French
- Copenhagen Bucket List Tour 8K Run (Tuesday & Saturday)
- Copenhagen: Roskilde, the Viking City Tour in English
- Skip-the-line Amalienborg Palace Copenhagen Nyhavn Tour
- The waterfront – Guided tour of Copenhagen along the waterfront in French
- Feel The Danish Hygge – Walk, Coffee & Local Treats
- Copenhagen: Sip & Sail Canal Cruise