walking tour – Copenhagen and Christiansborg 3 hours

If you’re planning a trip to Copenhagen and want a solid overview of the city’s highlights, this 3-hour walking tour combined with a guided inside visit to Christiansborg Palace could be just what you need. While it’s not the longest or most in-depth tour out there, it offers a friendly introduction to the Danish capital’s main sights and history.

What we really like about this experience is how it helps you get your bearings in Copenhagen. Walking through the city’s most prominent squares and neighborhoods with a knowledgeable guide means you won’t waste time wandering aimlessly, and the inside visit to Christiansborg adds a memorable touch. But, on the flip side, some guests have mentioned that the background info can feel a bit brief, and guides may not all be locals.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a compact overview without spending an entire day or breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet informative introduction, especially for first-time visitors, this could be a good fit. Now, let’s look closer at what this tour entails and whether it’s worth your time.

Key Points

• Highlights include a guided walk through Copenhagen’s main squares and landmarks
• Includes an inside visit to Christiansborg Palace with access to the Royal Reception Rooms and Banquet Hall
• Duration is approximately 3 hours, making it a quick but rundown
• Price at around $86.25, giving good value for the included entrance and expert guidance
• The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a more personal experience
• Some reviews highlight that guides may not always be locals, and background info can be limited

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Copenhagen Central Station at 9:00 am. From there, you’ll head out on foot with your guide, exploring the city’s lively heart. The walk isn’t too strenuous, and you’ll cover a variety of sights in about three hours, making it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity.

The First Stops: From Amusement Parks to City Squares

One of the first landmarks is a 175-year-old amusement park, which has its own story and adds a fun, nostalgic vibe to your walk. Then, you’ll visit Radhuspladsen (City Hall Square), a bustling hub where locals gather. It’s a free stop, and your guide will share insights about the square’s significance.

Next, you’ll explore Nytorv and Gammeltorv, the oldest parts of the city, which have mostly been rebuilt after the 1795 fire. These squares are surrounded by elegant Neoclassical buildings, and you’ll see the Caritas Well, dating back to 1610. Nytorv also features the Copenhagen Court House, which has historically served as the City Hall.

The Church of Our Lady

The next stop is Copenhagen Cathedral, Denmark’s main church. Built in Neo-Classicist style and designed by C.F. Hansen, it has hosted many crucial events—including royal marriages and Kierkegaard’s funeral. The church’s foundation dates back to the 1200s, but the current building was completed in 1829. It’s free to enter, and your guide will give you a quick overview of its historical significance.

Hoejbro Plads: A Medieval Heart

From there, you’ll visit Hoejbro Plads, a lively square with colorful 18th and 19th-century houses and a canal. It’s a great spot to feel the city’s medieval roots and see how history and modern life blend in Copenhagen. Inaugurated in 1901, the square also commemorates the legendary warrior-bishop who is credited as Copenhagen’s founder.

The Highlight: Christiansborg Palace

The final, and most anticipated part of the tour, is the inside visit to Christiansborg Palace. Built on the site of former royal residences, this grand building is the current seat of Danish Parliament and the Royal Reception Rooms. You’ll get to see the Banquet Hall and other royal rooms—an experience that many find memorable.

The entrance fee is included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs. Expect to spend around an hour exploring, and don’t forget to check out the gift shop before you leave.

What We Think About the Tour

Value-wise, at roughly $86.25 per person, you’re paying for a guided experience that covers quite a bit in a short amount of time. The inclusion of the Christiansborg Palace visit makes it a good way to see some of Copenhagen’s most iconic sights without having to plan each step yourself.

Guides can make or break a walking tour, and some reviews note that guides aren’t always locals, which may influence the depth of historical anecdotes. One reviewer even said, “There was not a lot of background information, just enough,” which hints at a somewhat basic narration. If you’re someone who loves detailed historical stories, this might feel a bit thin. But if your goal is a broad overview and inside access to the palace, this tour does the job.

Timing and group size are also convenient; a 3-hour window fits well into most itineraries, and small groups ensure you won’t be lost in a crowd. Plus, the tour is accessible for most travelers, as it starts near public transportation and isn’t physically demanding.

One thing to note is the mention of a guide who was not a local, which may slightly impact the authenticity of the stories or local flavor you might hope for. Still, the guides are described as knowledgeable, and their main aim is to give you a safe, enjoyable walk through the city.

The Itinerary in Detail

The First Landmarks

Starting at the amusement park’s main entrance, you get a quick glimpse into Copenhagen’s entertainment history. Moving on to City Hall Square, you’ll see the impressive Neoclassical architecture and learn about the square’s evolution from medieval market to civic center.

Nytorv and Gammeltorv are the next stops, where you’ll appreciate how these old markets have been reimagined as modern pedestrian spaces. Here, your guide might talk about the fire of 1795 and how the buildings were reconstructed afterward.

The Church of Our Lady

This historic church isn’t just a pretty building—it’s been part of Copenhagen’s fabric for centuries. Its Neo-Classicist design and royal connections make it an important site. You might find the stories about royal weddings or Kierkegaard’s funeral particularly interesting, as they add personal touches to the place.

Hoejbro Plads

Walking through Hoejbro Plads, you’ll get a sense of medieval Copenhagen, with its colorful houses and the canal. It’s a lively square that’s been around for over a century and offers a real feel for local life.

Christiansborg Palace

The crown jewel of the tour is inside Christiansborg. You’ll see the rooms where Denmark’s political decisions are made and enjoy views of royal history. Many visitors find the Banquet Hall especially impressive, and the fact that you get inside access makes this tour stand out from simple city walks.

Practical Tips and Final Thoughts

While this tour is a good introduction, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. The background info may be somewhat limited, and guides aren’t always local. Still, the access to Christiansborg and the walk through Copenhagen’s historic squares** are definite highlights.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of the city with a dash of royal history, this tour can make a great first step. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who prefer guided experiences that cover a lot but don’t want to spend all day on sightseeing.

Cost-wise, it offers fair value for its price, especially considering the included palace visit. However, if you’re a history buff or crave more detailed storytelling, you might find it a bit shallow and consider supplementing with extra reading or other tours later.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s generally accessible for most travelers, but consider your group’s pace and interest in walking. The inside palace visit might be more engaging for older children or teens.

Can I join this tour if I arrive late?
The starting point is at Copenhagen Central Station at 9:00 am, so punctuality is best to catch the full experience. It’s best to arrive on time.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided walking tour and entrance to Christiansborg Palace, including the Royal Reception Rooms and Banquet Hall.

How long is the inside visit?
Expect about an hour inside the palace, giving you plenty of time to explore without rushing.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Most reviews suggest guides are knowledgeable, although not all are locals. Some visitors wished for more background information.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour. Be prepared for weather changes—bring an umbrella or jacket if needed.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it generally does, as it’s outdoors and walking-based. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this experience good for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. It’s a quick and efficient way to familiarize yourself with Copenhagen’s key sights and history.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a friendly, guided overview of Copenhagen with a special inside peek into Christiansborg Palace, this tour offers a good mix of landmarks and history. It’s not overly long or expensive, making it a practical choice for first-timers or those with limited time.

While the background info may be basic and guides aren’t always locals, the experience’s highlights—especially the palace visit—make it worth considering. Just keep in mind that if you’re looking for a deep dive into Danish history or more personalized storytelling, you might want to explore other options later on.

This tour provides a practical, engaging way to get your bearings in Copenhagen and kick off your exploration of Danish culture and history.