Jewish Walking Tour of Copenhagen and Danish Jewish Museum

If you’re considering exploring Copenhagen’s Jewish heritage, this tour offers a structured way to dive into the city’s past, from its historic Jewish community to WWII heroic efforts. While the experience gets solid marks, especially for its knowledgeable guides and interesting stops, it’s also worth noting some limitations before booking.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are how it combines a walking exploration of Copenhagen’s landmarks with a visit to the Danish Jewish Museum — giving a well-rounded picture of Jewish life here. Plus, the group size is kept small, which means you can ask questions and get more personal attention. On the flip side, the price is on the higher side for what’s included, especially if you opt for the shorter version. This tour suits history buffs, culture vultures, or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Denmark’s Jewish community, especially if you’re interested in WWII stories.

Key Points

• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with detailed insights about Jewish history and local landmarks.
• Two options let you choose between a shorter city tour or a more comprehensive visit including the museum.
• Skip-the-line tickets allow for more time exploring the Danish Jewish Museum, especially valuable during busy periods.
• Landmarks like Nyhavn, the Round Tower, and the Great Synagogue help visualize Copenhagen’s Jewish cultural footprint.
• Price point is relatively high, especially for the 2-hour version, so consider what’s most important for your visit.
• Group size is limited to 23 guests, ensuring you won’t feel lost in the crowd or miss out on commentary.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point at Hotel D’Angleterre

Your journey begins at the elegant Hotel D’Angleterre, in front of Kongens Nytorv. It’s a convenient meeting spot near public transportation, but note, you won’t be entering the hotel — just gathering outside before setting off. From there, the guide will start unfolding Copenhagen’s Jewish story.

Nyhavn and WWII Rescue

The first significant stop is Nyhavn, the picturesque harbor famous for its colorful buildings and historic vibe. Here, your guide will tell the story of how Danes helped their Jewish neighbors escape Nazi deportation, a remarkable act of resistance. You’ll see the Memorial Anchor, a WWII sailor memorial, which adds a poignant touch to the story.

This part of the tour highlights Denmark’s compassionate response during a dark period, and you might find the discussion both moving and eye-opening. It sets a historical tone that continues throughout the tour.

The Round Tower and Cultural Landmarks

Next, you’ll pass the Danish Collection, founded by C.H. David, a Jewish-Danish philanthropist, and take in the Round Tower. This observatory, still in operation today, is a symbol of Copenhagen’s scientific heritage. The guide will share stories about its history and significance, connecting the city’s cultural and scientific contributions with Jewish history.

Expect a quick walk past university buildings and the city’s cathedral, giving a sense of the city’s vibrant life beyond the Jewish focus. This mix of landmarks helps paint a broader picture of Copenhagen’s diverse history.

Københavns Synagoge

The next major stop is the Great Synagogue, the core of the Jewish community. While entry isn’t included, seeing the synagogue from the outside and learning about its role today provides a tangible link to the local Jewish population. The guide will point out nearby attractions like the University and other hidden gems that reveal Copenhagen’s layered history.

The Danish Jewish Museum

The highlight for many is the visit to the Danish Jewish Museum, especially if you opt for the 3-hour tour. With skip-the-line tickets included, you’ll skip the long queues and have more time to explore exhibits about Jewish rituals, traditions, and Denmark’s Jewish history during modern times.

The museum offers insights into concepts like Mitzvah and showcases how Jewish life has persisted and adapted over generations. Based on reviews, guides tend to make the visit engaging, providing context and highlighting stories that help bring the exhibits to life.

Tour Duration and Group Experience

The 2-hour option offers a brisk overview of key sites, suitable if time is tight or if you’re more interested in city highlights with a Jewish twist. The longer, 3-hour version is better if you want a deeper dive, especially into museum exhibits and stories of Jewish resilience.

With a group limit of 23 participants per guide, the tour remains intimate enough for questions, though larger groups can be accommodated with extra guides.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Priced at $247 per person, the tour is definitely on the pricier side. The value depends on what you’re looking for: If you’re keen on learning about Copenhagen’s Jewish community, WWII rescue efforts, and enjoy museum visits, it offers a comprehensive experience. The skip-the-line tickets are a plus for those who want to maximize their museum time.

However, one reviewer pointed out that the shorter, 2-hour tour isn’t very focused on Jewish history specifically, and therefore might feel a bit expensive for what it offers. Still, many find the guides’ knowledge and the storytelling to be well worth the price.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Guides are consistently praised for their expertise, making the tour engaging and informative. As one reviewer shared, “Our tour guide had excellent information. We all were happy with the tour and would recommend it.” On the other hand, a guest noted that the tour’s price felt steep compared to other city explorations, especially if the focus on Jewish history isn’t as deep in the shorter version.

The flexibility of skipping the line at the museum and the small group size add value, helping you get more out of your experience without feeling rushed or overlooked.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to gather your thoughts before the tour begins.
• Check your email the day before for important updates—especially if you’ve booked the 3-hour museum-inclusive option.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as it’s a walking tour with several stops.
• If you’re interested in the museum, consider the longer tour for better value.
• Remember that entry to the synagogue isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you wish to visit inside.
• The group size is capped at 23, but larger groups can be arranged if needed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those interested in WWII stories. If you’re particularly fascinated by Jewish culture or want an overview of Copenhagen’s Jewish community, this tour provides a well-organized, insightful look.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and don’t mind a moderately priced, structured experience. It might not be perfect if you’re seeking a very in-depth or niche Jewish history tour, or if you’re on a tight budget.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a guided walk that combines the sights of Copenhagen with meaningful stories about its Jewish community and WWII rescue efforts, this tour hits the mark. You’ll come away with a clearer picture of how Jewish life has shaped and been shaped by the city’s history.

The guides’ knowledge makes the experience stand out, and the museum visit adds depth for those interested in the cultural aspects. While the price might seem high for the shorter version, many travelers value the curated insights and skip-the-line benefits, especially on the longer tour.

This is a solid choice if you want a balanced, informative introduction to Jewish history in Copenhagen—particularly if you’re willing to pay a bit extra for a more comprehensive experience.

FAQ

Is the entry to the Great Synagogue included in this tour?
No, entry to the synagogue itself is not included, but you will see the exterior and learn about its significance.

Can I visit the Danish Jewish Museum without a guide?
Yes, but purchasing skip-the-line tickets as part of the tour means you’ll have a reserved slot. You might still need to wait for security checks.

How long does the museum visit take?
If you choose the 3-hour tour, the museum visit is included and allows for a more relaxed exploration of exhibits.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is designed for general travelers; families with older children interested in history will likely find it engaging. However, it’s not specifically aimed at children.

What is the group size?
The tour limits groups to 23 guests per guide, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are tips included in the price?
Tips are not included but are generally appreciated if you enjoyed the guide’s storytelling.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring various outdoor and indoor sites.