Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark with a population of nearly 800,000 and the largest city in the Baltic states.
More than 1,000 years ago, the land on which the metropolis now stands is little more than a fishing and trading village.
Many of these original sites still attract tourists from all over the world, many years later.
Ironically, Copenhagen is one of the most modern cities in the region, with a wealth of culinary, cultural, artistic and historical attractions that are known to keep visitors busy for days on end.
Here are the 15 best tours in Copenhagen, Denmark.
1. 1 hour canal cruise
Copenhagen’s canals are the perfect way to explore for those interested in seeing this historic city from a unique perspective.
You don’t have to worry about popping a Dramamine tablet or throwing up in front of horrified tourists because the canal is blocked by the wind, which usually means a smooth ride.
The 1-hour tour departs from Ved Stranden or Nyhavn and passes popular sights such as the Copenhagen Stock Exchange, Christiansborg Palace and the famous Little Mermaid statue.
Excursions are a great way for new visitors to learn about the sights and layout of the city before exploring on their own.
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2. Segway Guided Tour
While they may seem to defy the laws of physics, Segways are a fun and safe form of transportation, perfect for short city trips.
Before setting off, visitors will get an overview of how to use their machines, put on helmets with wireless headphones, and a brief rundown of what they’ll be seeing.
Headphones will allow guests to hear their guide speak along the way so they will also understand what they are seeing.
There will be plenty of time to stop and take photos along the way, and after the tour, guests will enjoy refreshments and a parting gift from the event organizer.
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3. Inner city day trip
The city of Copenhagen has a variety of attractions for almost all ages and interests.
It’s relatively easy to tour on your own, but for a truly in-depth experience, it may be wise to connect with a local guide or two while in the area.
This downtown day trip is great for small groups and allows guests to see many sights in a relatively short amount of time.
The tour includes the services of a local English-speaking guide, as well as transportation by bus and canal boat.
Attractions to visit include the Danish Parliament, Christiansborg Palace and Copenhagen Opera House.
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4. 3-Hour Alternative Tour
Most tourist destinations like Copenhagen have attractions that can be classified as alternative or slightly out-of-the-way.
For many visitors, it’s these that offer the most interesting and unique glimpses into the region’s culture and history.
This 3-hour tour includes stops in multiple neighborhoods and focuses on quirky sights that highlight the city’s diversity and eclectic mix.
Often referred to as green light districts and red light districts, they show visitors a creative and dirty side of the city that most tourists will never get to see.
Tours include stories about the city’s poor, sex workers and drug culture.
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5. Copenhagen Food Experience Tour
With its vibrant and trendy food scene, Copenhagen is just as important to many visitors as the city’s other major attractions.
In just four hours, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of the city’s foodie hotspots and learn a lot about its history and culture along the way.
Tour tastings include meat and cheese, beer, wine and spirits, as well as traditional baked goods, as well as other sweets such as chocolate and toffee.
Tour guests often find neighborhoods and restaurants they want to explore on their own later, and drink with other like-minded participants at the official end of the tour.
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6. Hidden Gems 2-Hour Canal Tour
Due to its proximity to the Baltic Sea, Copenhagen has always been a commercial city by sea, and its extensive canal system is the perfect way to experience it from the water without venturing into rough seas.
Depending on the season and your guide’s judgment, tours may include parts of Northport or Southport; either way, you’ll see many rare and hidden gems that go unnoticed on many larger tours.
Guests appreciate the city’s impressive architecture, unique blend of old and new worlds, and rich historical, cultural and culinary attractions.
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7. 2 ½ hour Copenhagen Food Tour
In an age of cheap global travel and lightning-fast digital communications, it’s no surprise that Danish cuisine has experienced a bit of a renaissance in recent years.
Now, the capital is full of international chefs and fusion dishes that incorporate local ingredients and techniques not commonly used in the Baltic region.
This means a truly unique experience for foodies traveling around the world, and this 2.5-hour tour is a great way to get a quick taste of Danish food.
Tours include multiple beer tastings, light fare such as traditional meatballs and hot dogs, and an engaging cultural narrative between five stops.
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8. Copenhagen Pub Crawl
For young people, pub crawls are a popular way to experience city life without spending countless hours cramming into a minivan with hordes of pocket-sized seniors.
This Copenhagen pub tour, which includes stops at chic nightclubs and more low-key bars, is often one of the biggest highlights of many tourist trips.
It’s common to meet crazy young revellers from all over the world and chat, drink and dance to your heart’s content.
Participants must be at least 18 years old and encouraged to drink alcohol at least semi-responsibly.
Tours start at 8:30 and officially end at 11:30, although they often continue unofficially until the early hours of the morning.
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9. The Little Mermaid Quest Game
The premise of this Little Mermaid mission is that you and your traveling companions are new arrivals in Copenhagen, and they’re going to track down their long-lost grandma.
It might not sound as exhilarating as killing zombies or finding the Holy Grail, but previous guests often list it as a surprisingly engaging activity.
You’ll need to use your smartphone to follow clues and solve puzzles that will bring you closer to your final goal. Along the way, you’ll see many of the city’s most impressive sights.
The game can be played solo, but it’s more fun to play with multiple people.
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10. Copenhagen Small Group Walking Tour
Small group tours are a great option for those who would rather spend their time for a more intimate experience than a larger tour.
This three-hour walking tour gives participants a chance to stretch their legs, visit many of the city’s most popular attractions, and learn from knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guides along the way.
Copenhagen is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in continental Europe. It’s also very green and pedestrian friendly.
Tour highlights include Christiansborg Palace, colorful and picturesque townhouses built along impressive canals, and idyllic city parks near the city center.
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11. Danish National Aquarium
The National Aquarium of Denmark is one of the city’s most popular destinations, and it really doesn’t need expensive and chatty guided tours.
Most aquariums include tanks towering above visitors, giving the impression of being submerged.
It’s a particularly big hit for those traveling with kids, and it’s a great escape destination when the weather isn’t conducive to outdoor activities.
The aquarium features birds, marine mammals and fish from around the world, with sharks, rays and arapaima being perennial favorites.
A day pass is nice so you can see things at your own pace.
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12. Tivoli Gardens Fast Track Ticket and Optional Rides
Tivoli Gardens is a Copenhagen landmark, built in the mid-19th century and one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
It’s often overcrowded during the peak summer months – to say the least, but savvy travelers can buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long waits.
The park is full of roller coasters and other exhilarating rides for most ages. It also features peaceful gardens, many dining options and live entertainment.
Don’t worry about the guide; you don’t need one for this fast-track ticket with the individual ride option.
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13. 3.5-hour ‘Hygge’ experience with a local
According to recent research, residents of Denmark and Copenhagen are among the happiest and most contented people in the world.
In fact, they have their own way of saying it – “hygge”.
While eternal serenity isn’t a guaranteed outcome after taking this 3.5-hour tour, it definitely won’t make you less happy.
With your guide, you’ll wander the quaint streets and visit the garden library, coffee shop and bakery serving delicious pastries.
Along the way, you may gain unique insights into what makes this city so liveable. At the very least, you’ll spend some time educating and entertaining with like-minded searchers.
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14. Journey to the Untold Story
With so much to see and do in the Danish capital, many tidbits of local history and culture can get lost in the shuffle.
It’s a shame because they’re usually just as unique and charming.
This 2.5-hour tour does include tourist attractions like The Little Mermaid and Rosenborg Castle, but it also delves into lesser-known and relatively obscure aspects of history.
For those who like to experience more things on the street, this is a great way to spend a few hours.
Many of the stories you’ll hear relate to the dark days of World War II, when Denmark was largely under Nazi control.
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15. Denmark Christmas Walking and Wine Tasting Tour
Christmas is a magical time of year in Denmark, with holidays expected for most of the year.
From October to January, the local community transforms itself into a brightly decorated Christmas village that recalls times long ago.
This Christmas walking and tasting tour starts at 3:00pm and runs until 6:00pm, which means guests will be visiting the city after the winter sun sets.
Copenhagen at night is a festival of lights that must be seen to be believed.
If it’s not downright cold, plan for brisk weather and wear comfortable waterproof shoes if you have one.
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