Copenhagen Free Tour: Changing of the Guard & City Highlights
- 5· 2,649 reviews
- 2 hours
- Dragon Fountain at City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen)
- English
Pay what you want
Tips-based
- Start from
- Dragon Fountain at City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen)
- End at
- Amalienborg Palace Square (In time for the Changing of the Guard!)
- Type tour
- Free Tour
- Cancelation type
- Free cancellation until it starts
- Language
- English
Tour highlights
- Free Tour of Copenhagen's Old Town: A 2-hour guided introduction in English.
- Meet at City Hall Square: Your starting point for exploring the Danish capital.
- Iconic Landmarks: See Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn, and Amalienborg Palace.
- Historic Charm: Discover medieval squares like Nytorv and Gammeltorv.
- Architectural Highlights: Admire St. Nicholas Church and the Marble Church.
- Royal Tradition: Witness the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace (10:30 am tour).
About the tour
Discover the heart of Copenhagen through the eyes of a local! Skip the crowded, impersonal groups and explore the city's iconic landmarks and hidden medieval courtyards at a relaxed, engaging pace. From royal palaces and colorful 17th-century harbors to the secrets of Danish hygge, our passionate local guides bring 1,000 years of Nordic history to life through fun storytelling and insider secrets.
Whether it’s your first morning in the Danish capital or a return visit, this 2-hour walk is the ultimate orientation tour to fall in love with Copenhagen—complete with our exclusive digital map of local recommendations!
Itinerary
- 1
City Hall Square
Meet your guide beside City Hall Square for a short introduction to Copenhagen and the route ahead — plus the story behind Hans Christian Andersen’s statue gazing towards Tivoli Gardens.
WalkShow on map - 2
Nytorv and Gammeltorv
Walk through the medieval market squares while the guide explains how the old civic center shaped daily life in Copenhagen — and discover the dark secrets of ancient public trials.
Walk - 3
Christiansborg Palace
Pause at the seat of the Danish Parliament to connect royal history, state ceremonies, and the political life of modern Denmark — including the secret of how Denmark became the world's happiest country.
Walk - 4
Kongens Nytorv and the Royal Theatre
Explore the grand square and its elegant surroundings while hearing stories about culture, trade, and city life — and get a tip on the best traditional pastry shop in the area.
Walk - 5
Nyhavn
Take in the colorful harbor, wooden ships, and postcard views while learning how the waterfront evolved from a busy port to a city icon — and learn where locals go for the best craft beer away from the tourist traps.
Walk - 6
Marble Church
Stop beneath the imposing Scandinavian dome to marvel at Copenhagen's monumental architecture — and learn why this magnificent church stood unfinished for over a century.
Walk - 7
Amalienborg Palace
Finish in the royal square, where your guide introduces the palace complex and the Changing of the Guard tradition (for the 10:30 AM departure). Plus, you’ll unlock our Free Digital Recommendation Map with our favorite smørrebrød spots, coffee shops, and budget-friendly eats!
What is included
Included
- A 2-hour, story-filled walking tour in English with an official local guide.
- Exclusive access to our curated local map with the best smørrebrød, coffee shops, craft beer spots, and budget-friendly eats.
- Full orientation covering the city’s top highlights, hidden medieval alleyways, and history.
- Changing of the Guard ceremony (10:30 AM departure only)
Not included
- This is a tip-based tour (guests usually tip around €15 / 100 DKK per person based on their experience).
- We view landmark exteriors and square courtyards; indoor palace admissions are not included.
- Personal expenses, meals, or snacks along the route.
- Walking is the best way to explore! No bus or boat tickets are included.
- Changing of the Guard ceremony on afternoon tours (14:00 / 16:00)
Before you go
The questions travellers ask before booking.
- How does the Free Walking Tour work?
Our tour is tip-based, meaning you decide the value of the experience. Reserving online is 100% free with no upfront deposit. At the end of the tour, you are free to tip your guide based on your enjoyment (guests usually tip around €15 per person). Cash (EUR/DKK) and digital payments are accepted.
- What if it rains or snows?
We walk rain, snow, or shine! Copenhagen’s weather is part of its charm. Just make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella or rain jacket.
- Are children, strollers, and wheelchairs welcome?
Absolutely! Children and strollers are very welcome. Please keep in mind that we walk through the medieval Historic Center, so there are cobblestone streets along the route. The pace is engaging and steady, making it suitable for families used to city walking.
- What is the minimum number of participants for the tour to run?
Our tour requires a minimum of 6 adult participants to operate. In the rare event that we do not reach this minimum, we will contact you in advance to offer alternative options, such as rescheduling to another time, joining a different tour, or arranging a private experience.
- How do I get to the meeting point?
Our tour starts right beside the Dragon Fountain (Dragespringvandet) in City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen). You can easily reach us via Metro lines M3 or M4 (get off at Rådhuspladsen St.) or by taking a short 5-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station (København H). Look for our guide holding the RED Walk and Tour umbrella!
Another question? Write to us
What travelers say2,649 reviews
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