Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale

If you’re looking for a way to see Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks without feeling rushed, this Walk & Ferry: Copenhagen Highlights + Change of Guards Finale offers a balanced and engaging experience. It’s a guided tour that combines walking through the city’s historic streets with a scenic boat ride through its canals, ending with the ever-memorable Changing of the Guards at Amalienborg Palace.

What we love about this tour is how it packs a wide variety of sights into just three hours, making it ideal for travelers who want a compact yet authentic glimpse of Denmark’s capital. Plus, the small-group format means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention and local stories from your guide, which adds a layer of depth many large tours can’t match.

A small caveat: the ferry, while usually reliable and nearly always available on weekdays, can occasionally fill up on weekends or be canceled. If that happens, the tour seamlessly switches to a scenic walking route along the canal, so you still get most of the experience—just a little more walking.

This tour is perfect for first-timers eager to hit the highlights, those with a limited schedule but a desire for an authentic, lively introduction to Copenhagen, or anyone who appreciates a mix of history, architecture, and local legends in a fun, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of walking and ferry offers both scenic water views and in-depth exploration on foot.
• Small-group size (max 12) means more personalized storytelling and attention.
• Includes iconic sights like Nyhavn, Little Mermaid, and Amalienborg Palace, along with hidden gems like Kastellet and Gefionspringvandet.
• Flexible plan: If the ferry’s unavailable, the route adjusts but still covers major highlights.
• Excellent value for money at just under $63, considering the combination of sights, transport, and expert guidance.
• Ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting an efficient, engaging introduction to Copenhagen’s essence.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: Copenhagen Central Station

Our journey begins at Copenhagen Central Station, a hub bustling with energy and history. Your guide will quickly set the tone, sharing interesting snippets about the city’s layout and the station’s role in connecting Copenhagen to Denmark and beyond. It’s a logical starting point, easy to find and close to many hotels.

Outside Tivoli Gardens

Just a quick stop outside Tivoli Gardens, this is no ordinary amusement park. Open since 1843, Tivoli inspired Walt Disney and continues to charm visitors with its vintage rides and lush gardens. The short stop allows us to admire its timeless architecture and imagine the joy it has brought to generations. It’s worth noting that ticket prices are not included, but even a quick glance at the gates reveals why this place remains a Copenhagen icon.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

From there, we pause at the Glyptoteket, a striking building founded by the Carlsberg brewery’s owner, Carl Jacobsen. Outside, the grandeur of its classical façade hints at the treasures inside—an impressive art collection, beautiful sculptures, and a stunning glass dome winter garden. It’s a taste of cultural elegance that hints at Denmark’s appreciation for art and architecture, even if you only catch a glimpse from the outside on this tour.

Christiansborg Slot

Next, we explore Christiansborg Palace, the seat of Danish government and a symbol of democracy. Your guide will weave stories of kings and queens with modern politics, offering insight into how this historic building plays a vital role in Danish life today. The 10-minute stop provides a meaningful look at power, history, and royal influence.

The Black Diamond

We then hop aboard the harbor bus, a modern electric ferry that whisks us through Copenhagen’s waterways. From the iconic Black Diamond—the striking modern extension of the Royal Danish Library—you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city from the water. This part of the tour is a highlight for many; it’s both relaxing and revealing, giving a different perspective of Copenhagen’s historic and contemporary architecture.

Scenic Canal Ride

On the ferry, you’ll pass by Børsen, the Old Stock Exchange with its distinctive dragon spire—although note it was damaged by fire in April 2024, with restoration underway. Then, the boat glides past the Royal Danish Opera House, a sleek, contemporary structure that highlights Denmark’s modern design ethos.

We also make a quick stop at Nyhavn, the colorful harbor famous for its lively atmosphere and 17th-century townhouses. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a mental note to return later for a leisurely visit.

The Little Mermaid & Gefionspringvandet

The boat cruise continues past The Little Mermaid, Hans Christian Andersen’s poetic statue. Its story and symbolism are well-known, and as you listen to the tales, you get a sense of Copenhagen’s literary pride. Nearby, Gefionspringvandet depicts Norse mythology, bringing history and myth into a beautiful fountain that’s great for photos and storytelling alike.

Kastellet Fortress

Next, we walk through Kastellet, one of Europe’s best-preserved star-shaped fortresses. Its peaceful grounds and historic structures, including a windmill, offer a peaceful escape within the city. The combination of history and natural beauty makes it a favorite among travelers, especially those interested in military architecture and scenic walks.

Cultural & Religious Landmarks

We pause at Frederik’s Church (“Marble Church”) with its impressive dome, and enjoy views of Amalienborg Palace, home to Denmark’s royal family. The guard change here—either a full ceremony at noon or a smaller shift later—provides a classic royal experience, appreciated by many for its tradition and pageantry.

The Royal Residences

Finally, the tour culminates at Amalienborg Palace, where visitors can observe the changing of the guards—an iconic Copenhagen sight. The 09:00 AM tour ends just in time for the full ceremony at noon, but the 1:00 PM variant offers a smaller, more intimate guard change, perfect for those seeking a quieter moment.

The Experience in Practice

Most travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides who blend storytelling with local insights, making each stop more meaningful. Reviewers mention how the guide’s enthusiasm and personal touches – like sharing fun facts about Danish design or Hans Christian Andersen – elevate the experience. One reviewer states, “Great guide! Knowledgeable and great English. We saw so much in a quick 3-hour tour!”

The scenic ferry ride often steals the show. It’s a chance to see the city from a different angle, passing iconic landmarks like Nyhavn, Opera House, and Gefionspringvandet. Many describe it as a relaxing break in a busy sightseeing schedule, with “wonderful views” and “interesting discussions about Danish designers and literature.” However, some mention that on weekends, the ferry can fill up or be canceled, which is good to keep in mind.

A significant plus is the value for money—at around $63, you get a well-organized, small-group tour, covering many highlights, and including transport that would cost extra if booked separately. It’s a comprehensive sampler of Copenhagen’s best, but with enough flexibility to adapt if the ferry isn’t available.

What You Get for the Price

• A guided walk through major landmarks and lesser-known corners
• Scenic 25-minute ferry ride through the city’s canals
• Cultural insights into Danish history, architecture, and mythology
• Opportunities to see the Royal Palace and Changing of the Guard
• Knowledgeable guide with storytelling and local tips
• Small group for more personalized attention

Considerations

The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness—most stops involve walking, sometimes over uneven terrain or cobblestones. Also, if you’re visiting on a weekend, be prepared for the possibility of ferry cancellations or full capacity, although the tour has a contingency plan for this.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see a broad swath of Copenhagen’s highlights in a short time. It’s perfect for first-timers, those on a layover, or anyone looking for an engaging, relaxed way to introduce themselves to the city. The mix of history, architecture, and water views appeals to a wide range of interests, especially if you appreciate storytelling and local lore.

The Sum Up

This Walk & Ferry tour offers a well-rounded, engaging introduction to Copenhagen, blending scenic water routes with the city’s top sights and stories. The combination of a small-group format, expert guides, and the scenic ferry ride makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their limited time without sacrificing depth or authenticity. The inclusion of iconic sights like Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid, alongside lesser-known treasures like Kastellet and Gefionspringvandet, ensures you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of what makes Copenhagen special.

Most travelers find the price justified for the rich experience, memorable views, and expert storytelling. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone with just a few hours to spare, this tour provides a satisfying and authentic taste of Denmark’s capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately three hours, including walking and a scenic ferry ride.

What’s included in the price?
Guided walking tour, ferry ride, and small-group experience. Entrance fees to specific sites are not included.

What happens if the ferry is full or not available?
The tour switches to a scenic walking route along the canal, covering most of the same highlights but with about 2 extra kilometers of walking.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for people with moderate physical fitness. It’s family-friendly but involves some walking over uneven surfaces.

How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What time does the tour start and end?
Begins at 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM, ending at Amalienborg Palace. The 09:00 AM tour coincides with the full Changing of the Guards at noon.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the ferry ride is part of the tour, providing a scenic waterway experience.

Are there restroom or refreshment stops?
There’s a short café stop near Amalienborg for rest and chat, but no extensive refreshment stops are included.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many stops and water views are perfect for photos, and the guide often shares tips for capturing the best shots.

Whether you’re cruising along the canals or marveling at royal guards, this tour showcases Copenhagen’s charm in a way that’s practical, memorable, and fun. It’s a wonderful way to get a true feel for the city—small in scale but big on character.