The Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Copenhagen: Wanderlust in Denmark

Copenhagen is one of those cities that feels like a fairy tale—but with better coffee and bicycles. So, welcome to your ultimate self-guided walking tour of Copenhagen! Once a humble fishing village on the island of Amager, Copenhagen blossomed into the capital of Denmark in the 15th century under King Christian IV (the same king who seemed to have a knack for building basically everything still standing today). Its name comes from Køpmannahafn—“merchant’s harbor”—a nod to its origins as a bustling trade hub.

Through the centuries, the city has faced fires, plagues, wars, and bombardments, yet Copenhagen has always rebuilt itself with a blend of resilience and creativity. What we see today is a capital that balances old-world charm—cobblestone streets, royal palaces, colorful harbors—with modern Scandinavian design, world-class gastronomy, and an unrivaled cycling culture.

Today, Copenhagen isn’t just Denmark’s political and cultural capital; it’s a city celebrated for its sustainability, innovation, and livability. In fact, you’ll quickly notice how seamlessly history and modern life blend here: medieval spires rise over minimalist architecture, and centuries-old bakeries stand next to sleek coffee shops where everyone looks like they stepped out of a design magazine.

Ready to lace up your walking shoes? Let’s dive into a self-guided walking tour that gives you the perfect introduction to Copenhagen—hitting the highlights while letting you soak in the atmosphere that makes this city so unforgettable.

Welcome to Your Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of Copenhagen:

1. City Hall (Rådhuset)

Why You Should Stop:
Copenhagen’s City Hall isn’t just a government building—it’s a work of art. Built in the early 1900s, the red-brick façade blends Nordic romanticism with Renaissance flair. Inside, you’ll find marble murals, a bust of four celebrated locals: fairy-tale writer Hans Christian Anderson, sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, Physicist Niels Bohr, and the building’s architect Martin Nyrop, statues, and Denmark’s world-famous Jens Olsen’s World Clock, a masterpiece of engineering. For a sweeping city view, climb the City Hall Tower.

Best Time to Visit:
Morning or early afternoon when it’s less crowded. If you love views, plan your tower visit on a clear day.

Tip: The main hall is free to enter, whereas to go up the tower you’ll have to pay a small fee. There are escorted groups at 11 am, 12:30 pm, and 2 pm on weekdays and 12 pm on Saturday

Address:
Rådhuspladsen 1, 1550 København

2. City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen)

Why You Should Stop:
This is the buzzing heart of Copenhagen, where locals, tourists, and cyclists crisscross daily. With its statues, fountains, and proximity to Tivoli and Strøget, it’s the perfect place to orient yourself in the city. Don’t miss the Hans Christian Andersen statue keeping a watchful eye on passersby. Among the artistic highlights in the square is the Dragon Fountain that was installed in 1904, depicting a mythical battle between a bull and a dragon.

Best Time to Visit:
Midday to soak in the hustle and bustle, or evening when the square lights up.

Address:
Rådhuspladsen, 1550 København

3. Tivoli Gardens

Why You Should Stop:
Opened in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks—and what inspired Walt Disney for Disneyland. Beyond the rides, it’s pure magic with lantern-lit gardens, lake views, and a calendar full of concerts and performances. This park is friendly for both kids and adults. Tivoli is actually the second-oldest, still in operation, amusement park, built in 1914. It was a wonderful park to experience with my daughter and you definitely have to check out the food hall too!

Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into the evening. That way you’ll see the gardens by day and the sparkling lanterns by night. It’s especially enchanting during summer and at Christmas.

Address:
Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V

4. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Art Museum

Why You Should Stop:
This museum is a cultural gem, housing ancient Roman sculptures, French Impressionists, and Danish Golden Age art. But the real surprise is the Winter Garden—a glass-domed oasis filled with palm trees and fountains that feels like stepping into another world.

Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for fewer crowds. On Tuesdays, admission is free, making it a budget-friendly stop.

Address:
Dantes Plads 7, 1556 København V

5. National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet)

Why You Should Stop:
If you want to understand Denmark’s story, this is the place. From Viking treasures and medieval artifacts to ethnographic collections and interactive children’s exhibits, the museum is like time-traveling through Danish history. It is the largest institution that is dedicated to the country’s cultural history. Including expanding from Greenland to South America, with historial items from 1560 to 2000.

Best Time to Visit:
Morning or early afternoon, especially if you’re traveling with kids who will love the hands-on exhibits.

Address:
Prinsens Palæ, Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 København K

6. Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)

Why You Should Stop:
This is the powerhouse of Danish politics, home to Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s office. But it’s also a palace you can explore—from royal reception rooms to the underground ruins of earlier castles. Don’t miss the free tower climb for unbeatable city views. Often called the “Castle of Realms” the Christiansborg is also used by the Danish Monarchy as well. Used for hosting dignitaries, lavish ceremonies, royal receptions and the Chapel is also used for ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to early afternoon. Try to time it around parliamentary recess for a quieter experience.

Tip: Check out the free English one-hour tours that is included if you purchase the Copenhagen Card

Address:
Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København K

7. Old Stock Exchange (Børsen)

Why You Should Stop:
One of Copenhagen’s most distinctive landmarks, the 17th-century Old Stock Exchange is famous for its “Dragon Spire,” formed by the intertwined tails of four dragons. It’s one of King Christian IV’s architectural legacies and a symbol of Denmark’s mercantile history. It’s long waterfront facade acted like a large “welcome mat” for sailing merchants.

Best Time to Visit:
Daytime for photos—the spire looks especially striking against a blue sky.

Address:
Slotsholmsgade 8, 1471 København K

8. Stork Fountain (Storkespringvandet)

Why You Should Stop:
This elegant fountain, unveiled in 1894, sits at a lively junction on Strøget. It’s a popular meeting point and gathering place for celebrations. The design features three storks caught mid-flap a if about to deliver some babies to the world…if you believe in Hans Christian Anderson’s iconic tale written in 1838.

Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons when the area is buzzing with life. Street performers and musicians are usually performing around the fountain. It is also a great spot to enjoy a gelato!

Address:
Amagertorv, 1160 København K

9. Strøget Pedestrian Street

Why You Should Stop:
Strøget is one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, running nearly 1.1 km through the city center. This street was initally known for Ruten until the 19th Century. It’s the ultimate mix: international brands, Danish design shops, cozy cafés, and plenty of people-watching. Street performers keep things lively, making it a must for soaking up the city vibe.

Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to afternoon for shopping, or evenings for a relaxed stroll when it’s quieter.

Address:
Strøget runs from Rådhuspladsen to Kongens Nytorv

10. King’s New Square (Kongens Nytorv)

Why You Should Stop:
This grand square has been Copenhagen’s showpiece since the 17th century. Surrounded by elegant buildings like the Royal Danish Theater, Hotel d’Angleterre, and Magasin du Nord department store, it’s where history meets luxury. The central equestrian statue of King Christian V anchors the square.

Best Time to Visit:
Evening, when the theater is lit up and the atmosphere feels regal.

Address:
Kongens Nytorv, 1050 København K

11. New Harbor (Nyhavn)

Why You Should Stop:
The postcard-perfect face of Copenhagen. Once a bustling 17th-century sailor’s quarter, Nyhavn is now lined with brightly painted houses, wooden ships, and lively restaurants. It’s where Hans Christian Andersen once lived and wrote, making it as historic as it is beautiful.

Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or golden hour for the best photos. In summer, it’s lively well into the evening; in winter, it sparkles with Christmas markets.

Tip: Taking a boat tour of the city is a wonderful way to see the highlights of the city in a whole new way! Click here for your tickets

Address:
Nyhavn, 1051 København K

Practical Tips for Your Walking Tour

• Length & Time: The full loop is about 5–6 miles (8–9 km), doable in a leisurely day with plenty of stops for coffee, pastries, and photo breaks.
• Best Starting Point: Rådhuspladsen (easy to reach by metro).
• Best Season: Spring to early autumn when the weather is mild, though Copenhagen is charming in every season.
• What to Eat Along the Way: Try a smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) at Torvehallerne food market, or grab a kanelsnegl (cinnamon roll) from one of the city’s many bakeries for a pick-me-up.