Walk & Canal Tour: Copenhagen Highlights + Changing of the Guards
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the best of the city with a local host on this intermediate-level combined walking and canal tour by Go Like a Local. Discover top sights, hidden gems & enjoy a 25-minute harbor ferry ride, ending with the Changing of the Guards at the royal palace.
Note: This walking tour requires a steady pace and is not suitable for those with walking difficulties.
We begin with a 1-hour walk before boarding the electric harbor ferry, (if it´s not full). Your host shares stories, and tips as we glide through the city’s waterways.
After the ferry, we continue on foot, passing the 1600s fortress and the Little Mermaid. A short café stop offers time to rest before reaching Amalienborg Palace.
The 9:00 & 09:30 AM tours finish with the full Changing of the Guards at noon. Later departures include a smaller version of the ceremony.
If the ferry is full or out of service (rare, mostly weekends), we follow the scenic canal route on foot instead, covering the full itinerary with 2 extra km.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
Copenhagen Central Station – where our local adventure begins We meet inside Copenhagen Central Station, right in the middle of the main hall, beneath the large round analog clock next to the 7-Eleven. (There are two 7-Elevens, so look for the one by the clock.) It’s an easy and central spot — a classic Copenhagen meeting point that almost every Dane has used at some point in their life. Our small-group walking tour begins here, at the city’s historic and bustling transport hub. For more than a century, this grand station has connected locals, travelers, and stories from near and far — making it the perfect place to begin your journey through the city. Before we head out, your local guide will share the story behind this landmark and set the tone for your authentic Copenhagen experience, blending history, culture, and the everyday rhythm of local life.
Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens – where history, magic, and inspiration meet We’ll stop outside the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks, and a true cultural landmark in the heart of Copenhagen. Founded in 1843, Tivoli has captivated visitors for generations with its timeless charm, twinkling lights, and romantic atmosphere — a place where locals and travelers alike come to feel a touch of wonder. From the outside, you’ll get a glimpse of the historic entrance and ornate pavilions, and I’ll share the fascinating story of how Tivoli inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland after his visit here in the 1950s. Beyond the rides, Tivoli represents the very essence of Danish “hygge”, creativity, and design — a living symbol of how Copenhagen blends tradition, art, and joy into everyday life. A short stop, but one that captures the city’s playful soul and its enduring love for imagination.
Options
Shared Tour (English)
German Tour
Combo Canal + Highlights (Eng)
Two tours in one: Walk & Canal Tour 9:00–12:00, lunch break on your own, then the Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour 1:00–3:00 PM. Duration: 6 hours
Private Tour
Private Walk & Canal tour: Discover Copenhagen with your own host: hidden gems, a scenic harbor ferry ride, and the Royal Changing of the Guards
What‘s Included
Born-and-raised local host
Personal recommendations
Harbor ferry ride through the canals included
Premium small groups
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
956 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Thanks
denisehG7465IH,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jacob was a great tour guide on the walking tour
The Irish on tour
ruthetted,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Emelie was a very informative guide who took the time to explain the modern and historic relevance of all our surroundings and the various cultural habits of the Dane’s.
Lots of walking. Little information.
958ellenh,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00This was lots of walking with little information shared. The tour guide Bob walked ahead of our group (vaping while walking) and rarely turned and spoke with us. There was little description of the history or significance of buildings/culture or neighborhoods. The tour guide walked rapidly and did not stop to ensure that the group was keeping up or could hear. I had to read a guide book later at the hotel to find out where we had been. A hop on hop off tour bus with narration or self guided tour would have been preferable.
Great walking tour of...
Rebecca K,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great walking tour of Copenhagen. Our guide Martin was fantastic. Very informative and family friendly.
Great tour to learn basics of Copenhagen
gokcedal,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Martin took us through the city and he was very knowledgeable, kind and accommodating. This tour is highly recommended.
Great city tour
mayzey01,Jul 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very informative and enjoyable. The Jacob was very engaging and was a pleasure to be with
Excellent Tour
Scenic33090532177,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide was very knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights about the city’s history and landmarks throughout the journey. We used the Yellow Ferry 992 to see points of interest from the water. It was a relaxing and enjoyable way to see many of Copenhagen’s main attractions. Highly recommended!
Interesting tour
Lois D,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Tour was interesting and the tour guide Jacob added little known facts and has a vast knowledge about the culture, art, history and architecture of Copenhagen and Denmark. Eric who is training to be a guide was also very informative. I would strongly recommend the tour to others visiting the area.
Highly recommended
timhX730YL,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome tour! Highly recommended. Lots of stops and rich in history so much fun! Jacob was amazing!! Thanks so much for a great time
Great tour!
ericahD6665JA,Jul 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jacob was a great tour guide during this walk. A great tour that allowed a good review of a variety of sights throughout the city. Definitely would recommend.
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