canal cruise copenhagen

The 5 Best Copenhagen Canal Tours [2024 Reviews]

Copenhagen sits on two islands and is served by an extensive canal network. This means that a canal tour is a great way of seeing most of the main attractions around the city.

Also, many of the iconic buildings are designed to be viewed from the water, making a canal tour the best way to see these impressive structures.

There are many canal cruises in Copenhagen, but I’ve selected out 5 top-rated tours I think you’ll love. Think about what you want to see and do in this fascinating city and then decide which of these 5 feature-packed tours would be best for you.

Best Canal Tours In Copenhagen

Quick answer: the 5 best rated canal tours in copenhagen for 2024.

• Best Sightseeing Tour: 2-Hour “Hidden Gems” Copenhagen Canal Tour
• Best Combination Tour: Copenhagen City Highlights & Canal Cruise Private Tour
• Best Budget Tour: 1-Hour Copenhagen Canal Cruise From Ved Stranden or Nyhaven
• Best Guided Tour: Shore Excursion: Panorama Sightseeing By Land and Canal Cruise
• Best Family Tour: Copenhagen Canal Tour & Skip-The-Line Tivoli Ticket

We have reviewed the top Copenhagen canal cruises providing overviews and highlighting the details of each.

Copenhagen Canal Tour Reviews

1. best sightseeing tour: copenhagen 2-hour “hidden gems” canal tour.

• Departure Point : Kvæsthusbroen 1, Copenhagen
• Departure Time: 12:50 PM
• Duration : 2 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, 2-hour canal cruise, and a complimentary drink

Are you an inquisitive person who likes to explore the hidden corners of your holiday destination and discover how the local people live away from the airbrushed tourist areas?

This voyage of discovery explores some of Copenhagen’s less-visited locations.

Enjoy your complimentary drink and chat with your neighbors on this intimate canal tour. The boat will transport you away from the city center and into the North or South Harbor.

Sailing past developing areas, your knowledgeable guide will explain the rich history of the city and how ecological and economic concerns are shaping the buildings of the future.

See how former industrial buildings are being transformed into modern homes and offices. Don’t worry if it rains. This little, cozy boat has a rain hood that can be pulled up to protect you from the elements.

And if it’s sunny, the hood is tucked away so that you can enjoy uninterrupted, panoramic views.

This is a great opportunity to see the real Copenhagen. Don’t miss the opportunity to ask your guide all the questions you want about everyday life in modern Denmark.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. best combination tour: copenhagen city highlights & canal cruise private tour.

• Departure Point : City Hall Square
• Departure Time: 10:00 AM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Experienced guide, 3-hour guided walking tour, 1-hour canal cruise, and a complimentary drink

To truly understand the character of a city, it’s best to walk its streets yourself. If you want to benefit from in-depth cultural and historical commentary, this combined walking tour and cruise is best for you.

After meeting your guide in City Hall Square, you’ll set out to explore the city by foot. Because most of the attractions are so close together, you won’t find this comprehensive walking tour too demanding.

Your guide will guide you to many cultural and historical attractions, such as Christiansborg Castle, the Amalienborg Palace, and the square of Kongens Nytov.

On foot, you’ll be so close to the history that you can touch it as your knowledgeable guide brings it to life with facts, figures, and stories.

After admiring the colorful buildings of Nyhavn, you’ll transfer into an open-top boat for a 1-hour canal cruise. Now you’ll view the city from a fresh perspective.

One highlight is the new Circle Bridge, a unique structure completed in 2015 and designed to resemble a series of yachts floating across the canal.

The Royal Theater looks wonderful from the water. As you’re passing The Little Mermaid , enjoy your complimentary drink.

Once you’ve completed this tour, you’ll be an expert on the history of the world’s oldest royal family. Take along a good camera, because you’ll see many interesting structures that you’ll want to share with friends back home.

3. Best Budget Tour: Copenhagen 1-Hour Canal Cruise From Ved Stranden or Nyhaven

• Departure Point : Nyhavn or Ved Stranden
• Departure Times : 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Duration : 1 hour
• Includes : Expert guide, 1-hour cruise, route map, and use of poncho in the event of rain

This is a great tour if you just want to see the main sights visible from the water. The cruise takes you around the main harbor and adjoining canals.

You’ll want to keep your camera ready as you cruise past Nyhavn waterfront.  The colorful houses you’ll recognize from postcards will put a smile on your face.

You’ll love the Amalienborg Palace, home to the royal family, and Christiansborg Palace, where the Danish parliament meets.

You may recognize the neighboring Børsen building—the former stock exchange which is admired by visitors for its distinctive dragon-tail spire.

However, the true highlight of the tour must be The Little Mermaid statue you’ll see in Langelinie.

Don’t worry if it rains because a poncho will be provided to protect you from the elements. You’ll be handed a handy map to help you keep track during the tour and to take away as a souvenir.

4. Best Guided Tour: Shore Excursion Panorama Sightseeing By Land and Canal Cruise

• Departure Point : Oceankaj Cruise Terminal, Oceankaj, København
• Departure Time: Contact tour operator
• Duration : 3½ hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, 2½-hour bus tour, and 1-hour canal cruise

If you want a comprehensive tour that enables you to view all the main attractions of Copenhagen from land and water, you’ll love this one.

First, you’ll be driven around the city for 2½ hours in a modern, air-conditioned bus specially designed to provide you with a panoramic view. The tour is timed so that you arrive at the palace in time to see the Changing of the Royal Guards.

During the bus tour, you’ll also see the Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, the Copenhagen Opera House, and, most importantly, The Little Mermaid statue.

There will be two planned stops to take photographs at key locations: The Little Mermaid , and The Copenhagen Opera House.

Then you’ll transfer into a luxury boat for a 1-hour canal cruise. During the cruise, you’ll see some of the same attractions from a different perspective.

It’s fascinating how the Danish architects designed many of their iconic buildings to present a specific image when viewed from the water.

5. Best Family Tour:  Copenhagen Canal Tour & Skip-The-Line Tivoli Ticket

• Departure Times: 9:30 AM – 3 PM
• Includes : Experienced guide, 1-hour cruise, and skip-the-line entrance ticket to Tivoli Gardens

If you’re planning to visit Tivoli Gardens while visiting Copenhagen, you’ll love this deal. Not only do you get a guided cruise around the harbor, but you also get a skip-the-line entrance ticket to Tivoli Gardens.

The boat passes many of Copenhagen’s tourist hotspots, such as the Copenhagen Opera House.

Live commentary is provided by the knowledgeable guide, who will teach you about the beautiful houses, castles, and other important public buildings visible from the harbor and canals.

Once you’ve completed your 1-hour tour around the capital, you’re free to skip the queue to enter Tivoli Gardens for an enjoyable afternoon of fun.

Copenhagen Travel Guide

There are many reasons why Copenhagen was ranked 1 st among Lonely Planet ’s top 10 cities to visit in 2019. It’s a city filled with historic and cultural attractions as well as gastronomic delights. You can visit the home of the Danish royal family, spend a day in one of the world’s best-loved amusement parks, or take part in one of their popular organized festivals.

What you decide to do in this fascinating city is entirely your choice. However, because I want you to have a wonderful time, I’ve put together this brief travel guide to help you prepare for your visit.

Airports & Entry

Traveling to Copenhagen is simple because Denmark has a well-developed transport infrastructure. You can take a train from cities in Central Europe and Sweden or a ferry from Oslo. But most visitors arrive by airplane. Copenhagen Kastrup Airport is the largest airport in Scandinavia, handling 30 million passengers a year.

Copenhagen Kastrup has 2 terminals: Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. The 2 terminals share a single airside passenger concourse. Note that most of the many stores and food outlets inside the airport are located airside. If you must spend some time in the airport, there are 4 first-class lounges airside and 1 landside, which you may pay to use. If you want to be really pampered, there’s even a spa at the Hilton Hotel, connected to Terminal 3.

You’ll find all the usual facilities at Copenhagen Kastrup , including multiple fast food outlets, duty frees stores, ATMs, currency exchange, mobile charging, and free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. The information desk is near the Transfer Center in the center hall. The food outlets open long hours, with Burger King landside and Mikkeller airside both open 24 hours.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be pleased to discover Copenhagen Kastrup is child-friendly. Stroller rentals can be found in the International Departures Hall. There’s a Children’s Play Area for children up to 10-years-old in Terminal 2 airside. And the restrooms in the same area provide baby care facilities, like a changing table and microwave for heating Baby’s bottle.

As I said, Denmark has a fantastic transport infrastructure, so getting into the city from the airport is simple. The railway station in Terminal 3 runs services to the city center every 10 minutes. Just outside level 2 of the same terminal, the Metro runs services every 4-6 minutes. Taxis are found at ranks outside the Arrivals area of both terminals.

If you prefer your independence, you’ll find 6 car rental companies in Terminal 3. But, given the great public transport system within the capital, I’d recommend you make use of the city’s buses and Metro.

Planning Tips

Although Copenhagen is relatively small for a capital city, there’s lots to see and do. To ensure you have a great time, here are 5 tips to help you plan your visit.

Tip #1: Think about what you want to see and do in Copenhagen before deciding when to visit

The best time to visit Copenhagen depends upon what you want to do when you get there. If you love music festivals and street carnivals, you’ll find lots to do between June and August. However, the rain is heavier in the summer, too. If you prefer fewer crowds and more affordable hotel rooms, then March through May is a great time to visit. October through February, except for December, you’ll find the city extremely quiet.

Tip #2: Get yourself a Copenhagen Card

A great budget choice is the Copenhagen Card. This card not only provides free and unlimited use of the bus, Metro, and S-tog services, but it also grants free entry to 73 city attractions as well as significant discounts on others. Copenhagen Cards come in 24, 48, 72, and 120-hour varieties.

Tip #3: Take your time to enjoy all the attractions of Copenhagen

You may be planning to visit Copenhagen specifically to see the historical sites or admire the architecture, but there are many more interesting things to do and see in this beautiful city. Check out the information provided below for ideas.

Tip #4: Book in advance

Copenhagen is an increasingly popular tourist destination, so hotel rooms and tours can get fully booked early. You’ll find most things fully-booked from June through August and during the month of December. Many tours offer free refunds within a reasonable time frame, so you’re not taking a risk when you book.

Tip #5: Take comfortable walking shoes

Don’t be tempted to buy new, smart shoes for your visit to Copenhagen. The chances are you’ll do a lot of walking because it’s the easiest way to get around the city center and main attractions. You can’t drive around Tivoli Gardens! What you need are comfortable walking shoes, preferably ones you’ve worn-in and that won’t chafe your feet.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Copenhagen has more restaurants per capita than most other cities in the world, so eating out won’t prove a problem. Not only does this city host many prestigious restaurants that boast Michelin Stars, but the rich ethnic diversity has led to a wealth of international food outlets.

In Copenhagen, you can eat any kind of food you want, from Italian pizza to Indian cuisine. But if you want a taste of traditional Danish food, there are several local dishes you should watch for.

Since Denmark has a vast coastline and a rich maritime history, of course, seafood is on the menu. Pickled and marinated herring have served as the Danes’ most popular meal since the Vikings. Often served with rye bread, you can find pickled herring in many traditional restaurants. But if you prefer fish that isn’t pickled, fiskefrikadeller are fish balls made from mixed white fish and onion.

If you want something that isn’t seafood-based, then frikadeller are meatballs fried in butter and served with boiled potatoes. And around the holiday season, Fl æskesteg is Danish roast pork prepared with cloves, bay leaves, and spices that’s especially popular during Christmas dinner.

For food on the go, the Danes have their own version of the sandwich using a single slice of rye bread with toppings. Sm ørrebr ød are found everywhere, with toppings like smoked salmon and boiled eggs. Restaurant Schønnemann has offered 110 different varieties of smørrebrød since 1877, including 21 with herring!

If you prefer the white variety of bread more popular outside of Scandinavia, you can always buy a hotdog. Hotdogs made using r ød p ølse (local recipe red sausages) are especially popular.

If you hunger for dessert, try hindbærsnitte. They look like a Pop-Tart—flat, short-crust pastries with a jam center—but taste so much better. And most bakeries sell this delicious treat freshly baked. And if you’re a dedicated foodie, you might like to know the last week in August every year features the Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival.

Nightlife & Entertainment

With so much of the wealth and culture in Copenhagen associated with the brewing industry, it’s little surprise to discover Danes love to drink. These modern-day Vikings know how to party, and the nightlife is lively. You’ll find that many bars stay open until 6 am or later.

You’ll find nightclubs all around the city, especially in Vesterbro, Nørrebro, Frederiksberg, and Indre By. Well-known clubs include Chateau Motel, At Delores, and ARCH. But for lively streets with live music venues, chilled out bars, and a buzzing atmosphere, check out Blågårdsgade, a street in the Nørrebro district.

Something Danes excel at is community festivals. Copenhagen hosts many popular festivals during the summer, including the Copenhagen Carnival , Copenhagen Distortion, Copenhell, and Copenhagen Pride.

The carnival takes place around the beginning of June and draws crowds of over 100,000. Copenhagen Distortion is similarly popular and celebrates dance music while Copenhall focuses on heavy metal music. Copenhagen Pride celebrates the LGBT community and human rights in August.

Getting Around

Copenhagen is not a huge city, and most of the popular attractions are within walking distance of one another. For that reason, it’s easy to walk wherever you want to go. But plan your sightseeing routes carefully so you go from place to place in a logical order, minimizing the overall distance walked.

In my opinion, the best way to get around Copenhagen is by bicycle. It is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in the world, with 250 miles of exclusive cycle paths. In fact, 36% of residents opt to cycle to work or school rather than use other forms of transportation.

If you’re comfortable cycling, you’ll love to hear there’s an affordable citywide bicycle sharing program called Bycyklen . This scheme provides access to over 2,000 bikes with built-in GPS systems for around $5 per hour. There are Bycyklen docking stations near all the attractions, main public buildings, and transport hubs.

Do note there are very strict laws that apply to cyclists within the capital, and fines will be issued for unsafe cycling. Most of the rules are common sense, like signaling when you turn, and include things like not cycling on pavements, not going through a red light, and not cycling the wrong way along a one-way street.

If you prefer to be driven around, Copenhagen has a great public transport system. There are comprehensive bus routes and two rapid transit systems—the S-tog and the Metro.

You can, of course, hire a car. However, I would strongly recommend that you don’t unless you plan to spend a lot of time exploring the countryside or visiting other cities. It is difficult to use a car within the main tourist areas of Copenhagen because many areas are pedestrianized, it’s difficult to park, and there are so many bicycles sharing the road. You’ll find public transport much more convenient.

The most expensive option is to take a taxi. They may get caught up in the city congestion, and be unable to enter pedestrianized areas, but at least they deliver you to the door.

And finally, the city is built on two islands riddled with canals. That means a great way to see the city is to take a canal cruise. This not only provides you with a different perspective on all the stunning buildings around Copenhagen but also allows you to look around without hurting your feet so much.

Accommodations

Over the past decade, Copenhagen has seen a huge increase in tourism. This means you’ll find a wide range of hotels and hostels that meet every budget, but you’ll have to book early to ensure a room.

Generally speaking, it doesn’t matter where in the city you base yourself because the transportation system is efficient and the attractions close together. However, each district of the city has its own flavor, which may influence where you prefer to stay.

The heart of Copenhagen is Indre By. Most of the historical attractions and the old city are found here, like Christiansborg Palace , Rosenborg Castle, and The Little Mermaid . If you want to step out of your hotel and be surrounded by history, this is where you need to be.

Indre By also boasts the main shopping street, the central railway station, and many of the top nightclubs. However, if you want to stay close to the center of everything, you must pay for the privilege.

If you prefer somewhere a little quieter and away from the city center, Nørrebro is a great place to stay. You’ll find high-end restaurants, antique stores, and theatres. And if you’re looking for the picture-postcard location, Nyhavn is the neighborhood with all those pastel-colored houses along a waterfront you see in many tourist brochures. Nyhaven has a reputation for being very family-friendly.

Vesterbro is historically Copenhagen’s meatpacking and red-light district. Strangely, it’s now more like the Village in Manhattan—a magnet for creative people, like photographers, filmmakers, artists, and designers. Here you’ll find the avant-garde restaurants and bars such a Bohemian crowd attracts.

If you’re counting your pennies, you’ll find affordable accommodation in the Latin Quarter. This is the original university area, so there are plenty of affordable options for students and budget travelers. You’ll also find the trendy bars and food outlets you’d expect where young people congregate.

Copenhagen experiences a considerable difference in day length from summer to winter, with a whole 17½ hours of daylight on midsummer’s day but a short 7 hours during the winter solstice. This is reflected in the temperature range, from an average daily high of 38 0 F and low of 30½ 0 F in January to a high of 72 0 F and low of 57½ 0 F in July.

Thankfully, due to its Oceanic climate, Copenhagen doesn’t experience especially extreme high and low temperatures. The city also benefits from moderate rainfall, though it receives markedly higher rainfall during the warmer months of July through September.

The sunniest month is June, which may be why so many of the major citywide festivals fall around that month. Conversely, February sees the least sunshine, but at least it’s also the driest month.

Whenever you go to Copenhagen, pack some warm clothes to protect you from the cold winds that occasionally sweep across from the Baltic. In winter, you’ll need a thick coat, hat, and gloves. In spite of the relatively mild temperatures compared to some countries, you’re still in Scandinavia. And in summer, bring an umbrella!

Attractions

Copenhagen boasts a rich history dating back to 1043, and there are many fascinating attractions around the city. You’ll be happy to know that most of these are within walking distance of one another.

The most visited, photographed, and loved attraction is The Little Mermaid . Edvard Eriksen’s 4-feet high bronze statue is displayed upon a granite boulder beside the water at Langelinje Pier. You can’t visit Copenhagen and not see this iconic statue.

Once visitors have paid their respects to the mermaid, there’s somewhere else most go to let their hair down. Ever wonder where Walt Disney found the inspiration to build Disney World? He visited Tivoli Gardens, the amusement park in the heart of Copenhagen.

Tivoli Gardens was founded in 1843, but it hasn’t fallen behind the times. In fact, it’s modern adrenaline seeker’s ride The Vertigo was voted Europe’s Best Ride in 2014. The park boasts an eclectic mix of entertainments, from one of the world’s oldest rollercoasters, built in 1914, to the Tik Tak, a high-gravity spinner ride built in 2018.

But Tivoli Gardens isn’t only about high adrenaline rides. There are children’s rides and activities, theaters, cultural events, and beautiful gardens. Within the gardens, you’ll find lots of interesting buildings, like the Chinese Tower and the Glass Hall Theater. And when the sun goes down, thousands of fairy lights transform the gardens into a magical realm.

If history ticks your boxes, then you’ll love Copenhagen’s two palaces. Amalienborg Palace is the current royal residence in Copenhagen. Not only is this historical building easy on the eyes, but outside you can watch a Changing the Guards ceremony.

Christiansborg Palace is the older royal residence and currently houses the Danish parliament. The present building is relatively new due to repeated fires at this location that burned down the previous structures. History lovers can visit the excavated ruins of the older palaces beneath Christiansborg, dating back to Absalon’s Castle built in 1167.

If you’re a huge fan of literature, you must take the time to travel 30 miles north to Kronborg Castle. Not only is Kronborg a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the reputation of being one of Europe’s best Renaissance castles, but it is also the setting for Shakespeare’s longest play, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark .

If you visit Copenhagen in June, July, and August, you can Hamlet performed live in the castle. Every August, a Shakespeare Festival is held inside the castle.

Tour Guides

The 2-hour “Hidden Gems” is our Editor's Choice for the best Copenhagen canal tour with its sites seen, tour guide and value.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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The Netto Boats

Large group boat tour with multilingual commentary.

See the city from the water in a guided tour around its historic harbourfront landmarks with Netto Boat, setting sail from Holmens Canal or Nyhavn. Multilingual guides speak Danish, English and German.

The tour starts at Holmens Church . You will pass the old Stock Exchange and sail through a canal called "Børsgraven". You can also join a tour in Nyhavn , the picturesque canal with many old houses and sail ships. Nyhavn is one of the oldest parts of the Copenhagen harbor and dates back to 1673. 

A history and culture-packed tour of Copenhagen

From there the boat approaches the area of Holmen, the naval base of Copenhagen for more than 300 years. You will sail past some of the 250-year-old bastions or powder magazines, one of which – Frederiks Bastion – has been restored and converted into a small art gallery. 

From Holmen you can see Nyholm, where there is still a naval college. You’ll also pass the Mast Crane from 1748, previously a well-known landmark at the entrance to the Copenhagen harbor. 

No harbour tour of Copenhagen is complete without a visit to the iconic statue The Little Mermaid , the royal residence of Amalienborg Palace or picturesque Christianshavn’s Canal with the Church of our Savior with the famous, twisted spire in full view.

Tickets can be bought at the visitors' counter or on the boat.

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9 Best Canal Tours in Copenhagen

By Jenna Scatena

There are many avenues for exploring the best of Copenhagen—by foot along the scenic promenades or bicycling through quaint neighborhoods—but almost nothing is as classic as cruising its historic and fascinating canals by boat. Whether you’re traveling by motorboat, schooner, or kayak , on your own or with a guide, these wide waterways are rich with beautiful sites and compelling stories.

United Sailing Ships Arrow

Explore the canals and the coast on a traditional Danish sailboat with United Sailing Ships’ Harbor Cruise, which takes place on a sleek turn-of-the-century wooden schooner. Ships depart from the Admiral Quay in front of the Copenhagen Admiral Hotel; the trip lasts about two hours. The main highlight is the ship itself, not to mention seeing famous landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Opera House, and the Royal Playhouse from a coveted vessel. You'll venture farther than most standard tours—all the way to South Harbour.

Show Me Copenhagen Arrow

Show Me Copenhagen hosts high-end customizable canal tours for private groups that have a particular trip in mind. Providing a private sleek boat with a captain, guide, and food, the tour allows participants to customize the route within Copenhagen’s waterways. The crew caters to each guest’s needs, whether you’re looking for a sail down the main canal or a low-key cruise to quieter waterways.

FriendShips Arrow

FriendShips' sleek black-and-white electric boats are an easy way to choose your own adventure on Copenhagen’s waterways. After a brief introduction, you'll receive a curated map—then you’re off on your own with a group of up to eight. If you’re unsure of where to go, the on-the-ground crew can help you plan your itinerary before you set sail. A steering wheel lets you navigate the city's scenic canals, and the company's own Christianshavn dock (pictured) is centrally located near a bunch of scenic attractions.

Gondoltur Arrow

Gondoltur, a boutique tour, channels Venetian romance—in Copenhagen. Riding Stephania , a single restored gondola imported from Italy, is a romantic way for couples to take in the charm of Copenhagen’s narrower, more intimate canals. The one-hour customizable excursion starts near Freetown Christiania; one of the most popular routes leads across the Christianshavns Canal, passing by the Black Diamond, into Frederiksholm Canal, and by the Royal Stables. A bottle of Prosecco and some salted almonds make the journey even better.

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

GoBoat Copenhagen Arrow

Thirty small, simple pale-blue boats comprise GoBoat’s fleet, which is designed for a self-guided aquatic adventure. With a central table surrounded by bench seating, the vessels are ideal for a picnic on the water with friends. One, two, or three-hour rentals are available from morning until sunset; all boats depart from the Islands Brygge neighborhood. The company is run by a young, jovial crew that will help get you settled, but you'll need to appoint someone from your own crew to steer the boat—no experience required.

Hey Captain Arrow

HeyCaptain's guides feel more like hosts, and they set a lively tone for the 12-person ride in sleek convertible boats, offering great info as well as insider recommendations for things to do and see after the cruise is over. On the 60-minute public tour, you’ll sail through the Old City while whizzing past 17th-century historic buildings, the Christianshavn canal, the Circle Bridge, and the stunning Black Diamond, a library made of black polished granite. If you opt for the two-hour private tour, you’ll see the Trekroner Sea Fortress, the city’s former fortification, and you can customize the route to your liking.

Kayak Republic – Nordic Food Tour Arrow

Kicking back in a boat and letting someone else do all the work has its perks, but chartering a kayak means getting access to the narrowest of Copenhagen’s canals. Kayak Republic’s charming waterside station houses a trove of kayaks for guided tours and rentals, as well as a laid-back sailor-style bar with beer and local seafood for an après-cruise bite.

Netto-Bådene Arrow

Netto-Bådene runs a series of budget-friendly open-top tours in three languages. The large blue classic boats with plastic seats depart regularly from Holmens Church and Nyhavn and take about an hour, making this an easy activity to squeeze into a packed itinerary. The route balances stunning Danish architecture with historic sites and famous landmarks. You’ll catch a glimpse of Copenhagen’s military heritage while sailing through Holmen and Nyholm and passing by former naval bases, Amalienborg Palace, and Our Saviour’s Church.

Strömma Arrow

Travelers short on time will love Stromma’s tours, which offer a quick hit of Copenhagen’s top canal highlights. There are large open-top boats departing regularly from Nyhavn and Ved Stranden, and you can choose between the classic one-hour Grand Tour or opt for a 48-hour Hop-On, Hop-Off ticket that combines sightseeing and transportation. This fast and informative overview of the canals makes for an ideal orientation to the Danish capital—book it on your first day to familiarize yourself with the city’s layout and history.

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The best canal tours and boat trips in Copenhagen

With the word harbour (havn) incorporated into its Danish name (København) , Copenhagen naturally has a strong connection with its waterways. 

Many of these lead right past some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, including postcard-perfect Nyhavn and the famous Little Mermaid statue.

There are loads of guided canal tours and boat trips to enjoy, and you can even rent your own boat for a bit of self-guided exploration.

Seeing the city from the water can help you find your bearings before diving into the maze of historic streets on foot.

Options for boat trips in Copenhagen range wildly, from solar-powered picnic boats and classic canal cruises to sailing ship adventures and solo kayak trips.

Use this guide to choose the one that will leave you in ‘oar’ of the Danish capital!

Quick take: our top three Copenhagen boat tours

If you’re short of time, we recommend the classic boat trip from Nyhaven that takes in all the main sites in a comfortable boat with large glass windows.

We also really like this smaller electric boat trip that seats just seven people for a more personal, intimate experience – and it’s eco-friendly too. 

And for a chilled, relaxing trip, you can’t beat this tour of scenic Furesøen Lake on a lovely antique wooden boat.

Where do the boat tours depart from?

Copenhagen’s most popular type of boat tour is a trip along the canals. Most of these tours leave from the touristy Nyhavn area and from Gammel Strand, near Christiansborg Castle.

Others run from Ofelia Plads near Amalienborg Palace (it’s just around the corner from Nyhavn).

Havnebussen boats, which are part of the city’s public transport system, can be boarded at several stops between Refshaleøen and Teglholmen, giving you a cheap alternative to the organised tours.

Just bear in mind that these are very much ‘local’ boat services – you won’t get any info on what you’re sailing past.

Do the boat trips run all year?

Boat trips are popular and get booked up quickly, so it’s wise to book tickets online in advance, though some tours can also be booked on the spot. 

The Havnebussen (Harbour bus) public boats don’t need to be booked in advance, but you will need to have a ticket, travel card  or a  Copenhagen Card: Discover  to use them. You can also buy tickets onboard, but only with cash.

Tips for taking a Copenhagen boat tour

• Check the weather forecast and always bring an extra layer – it can get chilly here, even in the summer.
• Add sunscreen and a hat if you’re hitting the water during the summer months.
• Consider renting your own boat for a bit more freedom – you can safely rent certain types of boats in Copenhagen, even if you have no previous experience.
• Don’t forget to book in advance – especially in high season.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on the water. Several of the tours we’ve listed below allow you to bring your own drinks and food.

What’s new for 2024?

Increasingly small electric boats are gaining popularity, such as this one .

They provide a more intimate experience as well as personal interaction with the captain. So you can ask questions on the way and really enjoy what you’re seeing.

There will always be a place for the large glass-windowed tour boats, where you can walk around the boat – and they do you great views of the city.

But increasingly people are opting for smaller, more personal electric boat trips that limit their impact on the environment.

Guided canal and harbour tours

Touring Copenhagen’s canals is so popular that a whole industry has built up around it, with several different providers offering a multitude of tours, each aimed at taking visitors to see different parts of the city. These are some of the best.

The classic harbour tour

This budget-friendly one-hour tour  takes you around the canals and the harbour to see the city’s best bits.

Guides speak Danish and English (other languages are also available on specific departures) and provide a bit of background about the city as you sail past famous landmarks.

Tours start from Nyhavn, and will take you past highlights like Christiansborg Palace, the opera house, the Little Mermaid statue and majestic Amalienborg Palace.

The tours run all year round and ponchos are included, just in case it rains!

The extended harbour tour

If you want a longer trip that takes in a few lesser-known sites, such as the up-and-coming area of area of Nordhavn, this extended harbour is a good bet.

The trip leaves from Ved Stranden and takes in all the main sites too, plus some of the newer trendy regenerated areas to the north and south of the centre.

It lasts one hour, 45 minutes and runs from June to mid-September.

The eco-friendly harbour tour

This electric boat trip leaves from Ved Stranden and takes in the city’s main sights on a small boat.

The boat seats just seven people, so it’s a more personal experience – and has heated seats and blankets for colder days.

The knowledgeable skipper gets top marks for the witty and fun commentary, plus the interesting facts about the sites you pass and their history.

Hey Captain boat trips

Putting the focus firmly on good-old Danish  hygge (you’ll get warm drinks and blankets to keep you cosy), this is a much more intimate boat tour with room for just 12 guests at a time.

It’s a sociable boat trip where you’re encourage to chat to fellow passengers and the captain, so ideal for solo travellers.

Running from mid-March to mid-December, this two-hour boat trip sets out from Ofelia Plads near Amalienborg Palace, sailing past all the harbour highlights, plus some hidden gems too.

It takes in all the harbour highlights, as well as some up-and-coming areas and a few hidden gems too.

Havnebussen

Havnebussen, or ‘the Harbour Bus’ is part of Copenhagen’s public transport system, just like the regular buses on land. This means you can travel with the same kind of tickets you’d use on ordinary buses.

Riding the harbour bus isn’t really the same as a guided tour, but it does offer a cheap, alternative way to get from A to B around the harbour, while still enjoying some of its attractions along the way.

The best routes for sightseers are #991 and #992. They run in opposite directions, but both pass the opera house and Nyhavn.

Boat tour of Bagsværd Lake

Escape the city for a trip on the wooden Baadfarten boats, which sail along the scenic Bagsværd Lake, just outside Copenhagen (May to August).

The hour-long tour of the lake takes in lush lakeside scenery, including parkland, woods and fields.

Your ticket also allows you to stop off en-route, so you can spend as long as you like at the art exhibitions at Sophienholm, and continue your trip on a later boat.

Wooden sailing ship tours

Looking to explore the harbour in style? Then be sure to visit Copenhagen in high season (late June to the beginning of August), when you can book a harbour tour aboard a real wooden sailing ship.

Harbour bridges will open to let the tall ship pass as you sail through the harbour.  Or you can opt for a full two-hour sailing cruise aboard the beautiful wooden ship.

These tours aren’t cheap (expect to pay around 420 DKK per adult) and you’ll need to book in advance – check the   United Sailing Ships website for exact sailing times.

Lake tours on a wooden boat

And if you fancy cruising some of the waterways out of the city, this lovely wooden boat dating from the 1890s tours round Denmark’s deepest lake. 

The boat makes the two-hour journey round Furesøen Lake several times a day, stopping at the lake beach at Furesøbad, the castle of Næsseslottet and the Old Mill en route.

So you can hop-off when you want to explore the sights along the way, then catch the next boat onwards.

The boats leave from Holte Havn, 20 minutes outside of the city, and run from early may to mid-September.

Boats for rent in Copenhagen

If you don’t like the idea of setting sail with other tourists and would rather hit the water on your own, renting a boat is a great option.

There are a few different low-powered boats that you can captain yourself, and although there are age limits in place, no prior experience is necessary.

You can also rent a private boat with a captain from Refshaleøen, or jump in a kayak instead.

Some of the most popular boat rentals in Copenhagen are GoBoats . These dinky, solar-powered boats, based at Islands Brygge, let you go wherever you fancy along Copenhagen’s system of canals, with no experience or special licence needed.

You’ll be shown how to drive the boats before you set off and provided with life jackets and blankets (in case it’s cold out on the water!)

There’s a little bench table in the middle of these boats, and you’re free to bring along your own food and drink. So, pack a picnic basket for an enjoyable day on the water.

The boats hold up to 8 people and cost the same whether there are two of you or 8 (from 549 DKK) – so the larger the group the cheaper the cost per person.

Duffy boats

If you’re travelling with a group of friends or your family, then you might want hire your own boat and captain to take you comfortably around the harbour.

The eco-friendly, electric Duffy boats take up to 11 guests at a time, and are a great option if you want a bit more space and the freedom to explore a little more.

They run year-round with heaters in the winter, plus comfy sofas and tables so you can relax and enjoy the view.

The boats cost from 190 DKK for a one-hour trip, including the captain.

FriendShips

A good alternative to GoBoats (see above), FriendShips electric boats can be rented from Christianshavn, so you’re just around the corner from Christiania and the opera house.

Renting for two hours (around 900 DKK) will give you enough time to take in a few of the capital’s big sights while sailing quietly through the water.

Kayak Republic

Wanna keep those biceps in shape during your city break? Then you should consider skipping the boats altogether and jumping in a kayak.

Kayak Republic has stable, easy-to-use kayaks to rent for 195 DKK an hour, or 295 DKK for a double kayak (May to September).

Alternatively, you can join a two-hour city tour around the canals of Copenhagen, or an evening tour to watch the sunset (around 395 DKK).

Top tips for saving money on boat trips in Copenhagen

• Kayak for free. Green Kayak has double sit-on kayaks that you can use for free. All you need to do is to pick up litter from the harbour while you paddle, weigh it and share it on social media!
• Buy a Copenhagen Card. The Copenhagen Card: Discover includes unlimited use of the harbour buses, a classic harbour tour and the Baadfarten boat tours. So if you’re planning a lot of watery trips, it could save you a fortune. Check our guide to see if a Copenhagen Card could save you money.
• Go with a group of friends. With trips like GoBoats, you pay for the boat no matter how many people are on it. So if you can take 7 other people, you’ll pay as little as £8 each for an hour’s trip.

Are Copenhagen boat trips environment-friendly?

Most boat trips have a negative effect on the environment, however in recent years boat companies in Copenhagen have made big efforts to reduce their environmental impact.

The old diesel Havnebussen, for example, have been replaced with electric boats, and all the harbour buses are now nitrogen oxide- and particle-neutral.

Both FriendShips and the Duffy Boats are electric, while the silent GoBoats are solar-powered. However, the most environmentally-friendly way to take to the water is, of course, is by kayak!

Are Copenhagen boat trips safe?

Yes, boat trips round Copenhagen Harbour are safe. All boat trips provide life jackets for passengers, though there’s no obligation to wear them.

Make sure you stay seated while the boat is moving, and be aware of the safety procedures and where the emergency exits are.

Are Copenhagen boat trips accessible?

Most boat trips are problematic for those with limited mobility, and the boats that do the classic Copenhagen harbour tours are not suitable for wheelchair users. 

The harbour buses, however, are wheelchair-accessible, with flat landing stages and ramp access to the boat. They can get very crowded though, and there’s limited space on board for wheelchairs. 

Can I get food and drink on board the boats?

There are no facilities for buying food and drink on board the classic harbour boats, but there’s no problem with taking your own.

Many of the tours start and end at Nyhavn, where there’s no shortage of places to eat and drink before or after your tour. For ideas on where to eat in Copenhagen on a budget, click here .

See also:  Where to go swimming in Copenhagen 50 free things to do in Copenhagen The best guided tours in Copenhagen Is the Copenhagen card worth buying?

Shopping in Copenhagen: the quirky shops you shouldn’t miss

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Classic Boat Tours 

Experience the iconic Copenhagen canals in a beautiful wooden boat  from 1964 

Pickup location: havnegade 14, 1058, copenhagen.  .

Private Tour

2 hours - 4500 kr. , for up to 8 guests .

A Private Tour includes a complementary glass of wine and light snacks.

Classic Boat Tours

Experience Copenhagen like they did in the 1960's

Our goal is to provide all our guests with a unique boating experience in the Copenhagen canals.

You will cruise in style in a beautiful mahogany wooden boat from 1964 built in the famous Swedish shipyard "Storebro". It's up to you how long the cruise will take, and we will gladly arrange any extras you might require such as luxury snacks, flowers, champagne etc. We will do our best to accommodate any wishes you might have. 

Our adventures will always have a certified captain on board. 

We can't wait to welcome you on board. 

Best regards,

Mads & Christian 

Opening Hours

09:00-21:00.

April 1st - November 1st 2021

Get in Touch

Classic Boat Tours is committed to exceeding your needs. Questions, comments or special requests? We’d love to hear from you, so don’t hesitate to reach out today.

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Statue of the Little Mermaid

Copenhagen during beautiful sunset

Copenhagen panoramic view

Waterfront city buildings along the canal

Copenhagen landscape

Copenhagen canal view

Old Town Copenhagen street view

Town Hall in Copenhagen

Amalienborg Palace & Royal Guards

CPH-002 - Copenhagen Private Walking Tour & Canal Cruise

Discover the Viking heritage of modern day Copenhagen on a traditional walking tour along with a stunning canal cruise tour.

Tour price per adult:

Tour includes

• 3.5h private guide services
• Copenhagen walking tour
• 1h join-in canal boat tour

Tour excludes

• Gratuities to the guide is not included in the tour price.
• 00:00 – 02:30 Meet & greet in the city center/hotel followed by private guided walking tour of Copenhagen
• 02:30 – 03:30 Copenhagen Canal Boat Tour

Additional information

Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.

Please note, this tour can start from a centrally located hotel, Central Copenhagen is in public transportation Zone 1. Additional charge of 65 Eur/ grp applies for a guided pick-up outside this area.

• King´s New Square/Kongens Nytorv
• Nyhavn old harbor district
• Amalienborg Palace
• Opera House
• The Marble Church
• The Little Mermaid statue
• Christiansborg Palace
• Stroget Walking Street
• Copenhagen Town Hall & Town Hall Square
• Tivoli Gardens & Amusement Park

The largest city in Scandinavia is small enough to capture the charm of the  majestic architecture ,  striking waterfront views  and sites of  Denmark’s royal history  all comfortably on foot.

We will start our stroll from the very center of the medieval legends and revel in the discoveries of hidden alleyways and courtyards along the cobbled streets of old town Copenhagen.

The animated setting of  world’s longest walking street  begins on the  Town Hall Square . This has often been described as a walk on the backbone of the city and is located just next door to the fairy-tale inspired  Tivoli Gardens . After yards of celebrated  Danish design  and souvenirs imaginable, you will arrive on the  Højbro  Square . A fantastic area located in the center of the street, also an ideal venue for a coffee break and browsing the shops nearby.

We are now only a few steps from our next stop at the  Christiansborg Castle,  a remarkable site you will find out housing the  Danish Parliament, Prime Ministers Offices  and  The Supreme Court  all in one. Further down the street, arriving on  Kongens Nytorv , the “ King´s New Square”, the architect of the finest square in Copenhagen himself is there to greet you. The equestrian statue of  King Christian V  is admiring his work of the centrally located landmark at the end of the  Strøget shopping street.

Strolling towards  Nyhavn , the “New Harbor”, you will find has just as colorful of a past as the flamboyantly painted  500-year-old gabled  houses you will meet. The area was once a home of the great  Danish fabler H.C. Andersen  himself and the source of many irresistible sailor legends from days, when this dock that the  heart of the city’s red-light district . The elegant  white swans and vintage boats  gliding on the canals today have turned Nyhavn into an  irresistibly charming area  filled with cafes and restaurants. Whether you decide to upgrade your stroll with a local meal, coffee or people watching, this is the atmosphere to enjoy it to the fullest.

From here we will continue our sightseeing tour on a canal tour. As a home of the world’s oldest monarchy, one of our stops greets us with an impressive view of four identical palaces that form a magnificent square.  Amalienborg Palace  is the residence of the  Danish Royal Family  as well as the inviting scene of  changing of the guards  at noon daily.

Numerous must have sights are found just a few hundred yards from the palace and next on our journey of discovering Copenhagen.  The Marble Church,  a gorgeous Baroque dome as well as the  Opera House  across the canal.

However the true symbol of the city,  The Little Mermaid  is nestled in her rocky home on the water’s edge. This lovely bathing beauty, statue born from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy-tale has watched over Copenhagen’s harbor for already one-hundred years.

After the guided tour ends, you are free to fill the rest of your afternoon as you desire. Every imaginable local treat is within your reach from inviting artist´s galleries to irresistible displays of the  traditional Danish open-top sandwiches .

There is no secret to the fact, that the fascinatingly inviting city of Copenhagen is a site most people wish to experience over and over again. The essence of  local life, humor  and history  is best found with a help of your  private tour guide sharing thoughts and ideas along the way.

Let us give you a brilliant taster full of  proud heritage  and captivating stories !

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Destination Daydreamer

8 Unique Canal Tours in Copenhagen You Need to Book

Since my family and I live just three hours from Copenhagen, we’ve made our fair share of trips to the city. We live in a small town called Billund (aka the home of LEGO) where we spend a lot of time exploring The LEGO House and LEGOland with all of the tourists visiting our town.

But when we are looking for a weekend getaway and want to eat some yummy food in Copenhagen , we head to the city, spend the night in one of our favorite Copenhagen hotels and explore for a day or two.

RELATED POST: The Only Itinerary You Need for One Day in Copenhagen

*There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

One of our favorite experiences is to book one of the awesome canal tours in Copenhagen that wind through the colorful canals, tuck under ornate bridges, and cruise in the large open harbor. Whenever we have visitors, we are sure to take them on a canal tour in Copenhagen and it’s often one of their favorite experiences!

This post is to help you learn about each canal cruise in Copenhagen and hopefully help you choose the best one for you and your group! If you plan on purchasing a Copenhagen Card , you’ll be able to get free tickets to two of these canal cruises (more on that later).

Map of Copenhagens Canal Tours

*Use this interactive map to see the starting point of these 8 Copenhagen canal tours to help choose which one is best for you!*

This map will help you get acquainted with where you can board each of these Copenhagen boat tours. You will find two of the tours right next to each other in the colorful Nyhavn harbor and the six other tours dotted throughout the city along the harbor and canals.

One nice thing about Copenhagen is that while it’s a large city, it’s still quite manageable to walk, bike or take short trips on public transit to reach where you want to go. This means you will never be too far away from hopping onto a boat to cruise in the adorable canals of Copenhagen.

How to choose the best Copenhagen canal tour for you:

As you’ll see, there are many different types of boat tours in Copenhagen to choose from. However, one common denominator is they all pretty much cruise/can cruise in the same general areas. Since they all follow similar routes, this means that you won’t miss out on any cute, colorful canals or top sights just by choosing the wrong canal boat tour in Copenhagen😆.

I’m sure you heard of the Little Mermaid statue along the harbor in Copenhagen. Honestly, it’s just a small statue that probably no one would notice if it wasn’t so crazy popular for some reason. But, all of these tours do ride past the Little Mermaid so it’s a good way to see it and realize it may not be worth the hype 😅 (or maybe you’ll love it).

The main differences between each canal tour will be the size of the boat, the number of passengers, whether it is a guided tour with a narrator vs a self-guided tour, or if it’s a tour with a unique twist like it has a picnic table, is on a kayak (or get this… is a floating hot tub!).

We have personally taken three of these canal tours in Copenhagen: the Stromma canal tour , the Netto Bådene canal tour, and a GoBoat rental where you get to captain your own boat through the canals. I have great things to say about each of them (really, they were all awesome) and I look forward to taking a ride on the other boat tours in Copenhagen that we haven’t been able to yet (I’m looking at you floating hot tub).

1. Stromma canal tours in Copenhagen

• Live narration on most tours
• $15 per person
• Included in the Copenhagen Card

I would say the Stromma canal tour is probably the most well-known canal tour in Copenhagen as it’s located at the end of Nyhavn (pronounced ‘new-hown’) which is a very popular area to visit. This makes it the boat tour you’re most likely to stumble upon without doing any advance planning (which is neither a good or bad thing).

The Stromma canal tour is 1-hour boat ride on a large boat with multiple sailings every day. The Stromma boat tour usually includes a guided tour with a live narrator, but this does change depending on the season. If this is important to you, you’ll want to check in advance.

Stromma is also a very budget-friendly canal tour in Copenhagen with tickets only about $15 per person! The only less expensive option is the Stromma Canal Tours neighbor, Netto Bådene (more on them in the next point).

Our Stromma tour in June included a live narrator pointing out important landmarks along the route and we definitely learned a bit about Copenhagen. We saw Nyhavn along with colorful Christianshavn, modern landmarks, and even learned some history along the way.

We’ve taken both a Stromma Tour and a Netto Badene tour which are both very similar tour experiences. Stromma does cost slightly more than Netto and even though they were very similar, we did like our experience with Stromma slightly more and I’d say it was worth the little bit extra we paid.

However, if narration is important to you, be sure to check if they will have live narration on your tour with Stromma as it can differ. And remember, this boat tour is included for free with the Copenhagen Card !

2. Netto Badene Boat Tour

• Live narration
• $8 per person

The Netto Bådene tour is very similar to the above-mentioned Stromma tour but if you are on a tight budget it’s an even better option because it’s half the price at only $8 per person! Plus, don’t forget, both of these cruises are included for free with the Copenhagen Card .

The Netto cruises always include live narration which the Stromma tours don’t always offer on every cruise. The Netto Bådene tour was the first boat ride in Copenhagen that we took and we had a great time.

Again, we saw Nyhavn along with colorful Christianshavn, and modern buildings, plus learned a bit about everything along the way.

It’s crazy to me that tickets only cost $8 per person and kids are even cheaper at $3 per person (or free with the Copenhagen Card )! In my opinion, the experience is worth way more than that.

3. GoBoat Boat Rental

• 1-6 hour boat rentals
• $67 per boat/one hour
• Be your own captain with a map of the harbor and canals
• Picnic table on board

If you’re looking for a unique experience and want to join in on an activity full of hygge that the locals enjoy then check out GoBoat . GoBoat is a boat rental company where you rent a small boat and get to captain yourself through Copenhagen’s beautiful canals! We’ve personally booked a GoBoat and it’s one of our favorite memories in Copenhagen.

GoBoats are small, electric boats that can hold up to 8 passengers and you get to be the captain. Not only do you get to take the boat where you want to go, but the boat also has a picnic table in the middle so you can bring food and drinks and picnic on the water! How cool is that?

We saw locals with GoBoat rentals watching a Danish soccer match projected on a big screen near the water’s edge and I totally wanted in on the experience.

You can book a GoBoat for anywhere from one to six hours depending on how much water you want to explore and how long you want to sit on the water and relax.

My husband, toddler, and I booked a GoBoat one evening right around dusk and it was the perfect way to end the day. It was awesome to see the sun going down over the city lighting up the buildings and making everything golden.

One hour was the perfect amount of time for our toddler to enjoy the ride without getting fussy. Plus, it’s the perfect amount of time to hit the main highlights of the Copenhagen canals and harbor (like Nyhavn, Christianhavn, and the modern buildings along the harbor).

We were given a map of the harbor including where we were allowed to go and not go and the employee gave us a suggested route for how much time we had (which really was the perfect route).

4. FriendShips Boat Rental

• $65 per boat/one hour

If you are thinking that FriendShips sounds a lot like the above-mentioned GoBoat rentals then you’d be right. We have not experienced booking a FriendShips boat rental, but that’s only because we went with a GoBoats when we booked our picnic boat in Copenhagen. However, I don’t think you can go wrong with either boat rental company.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by FriendShips Boat Rental (@friendshipscph)

Similar to GoBoat , FriendShips is a small boat that can carry up to eight passengers, it has a picnic table in the center of the boat and you get to be your own captain! The prices are almost exactly similar to GoBoat as well.

The main difference I can see is that GoBoat and FriendShips are located in very different locations within the city meaning one may have a location that is more preferential for you and where you will be staying or exploring that day.

5. Hey Captain Boat Tour

• 1 hour, 2 hour or 5-hour guided tours
• $58 per person
• Narrated tour on a small boat of 12 passengers

Hey Captain is like if you took one of the large Stromma or Netto Bådene boat tours and combined it with a boat rental like GoBoat or FriendShips. It’s a guided/narrated boat tour on a small boat of 12 passengers and a picnic table.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hey Captain (@heycaptaincph)

A Hey Captain boat tour is a perfect slower-paced tour in a more intimate setting than the large less expensive boat tours like Stromma or Netto. This is perfect if you love the idea of GoBoat or FriendShips but you don’t want to captain your own boat.

Since this boat cruise in Copenhagen is so much smaller than its rival boat tours, you’ll be sure to receive a more personalized experience and be able to ask questions and chat with the guide which isn’t really possible with the larger tours.

6. Kayak Republic Kayak Tour/Rentals

• 2-hour guided tour or rentals by the hour
• $60 per person for a 2-hour guided tour or $25 per person/per hour rental
• Guided tour paddling at a comfortable pace through the harbor and canals

A guided canal tour of Copenhagen via Kayak Republic is perfect for you if you want a more adventurous day out on the water. Kayak Republic offers slow-paced guided tours in small groups hitting all of the highlights that you’d expect on any guided canal tour in Copenhagen.

If you’d prefer to explore the harbor and canals without a guide you can book just a kayak rental for about half the price of a guided tour.

One fun thing about renting via Kayak Republic is they are connected to the Kayak Bar which is a chill, waterside restaurant and bar with good food and live music throughout the week. I haven’t been able to visit the Kayak Bar yet but it’s definitely on my list of things to experience in the city.

If you happen to be visiting Copenhagen at Christmastime, check for the dates of the Lucia kayak parade where kayaks lit up with Christmas lights paddle through the canals in a colorful display of lights. It’s usually held about mid-December.

7. Copenhot Speedboat and Hot TUb ExperiencE

• 2.5 hour experience including a speed boat ride followed by relaxing in a hot tub by the harbor
• Group price of $1,100 for up to 12 people
• One of the most unique experiences in Copenhagen

Copenhot is a gem of a place that oozes all-things-hygge and provides one of the most unique experiences in Copenhagen. The main attractions at Copenhot are their hot tubs and saunas along the harbor, however, they also have an agreement with a nearby speedboat company to offer an exhilarating speedboat tour followed by relaxing for an hour in a hot tub by the harbor.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CopenHot (@copenhot)

You may find information elsewhere about Copenhot offering sailing hot tubs, however, that seemed to be a thing of the past as they have changed their location and business concept. But if we are lucky, they may bring back the sailing hot tubs.

if the boat ride/hot tub experience isn’t in your price range (it’s definitely not in ours), the waterfront hot tubs and saunas can be booked on their own for a MUCH more affordable price (starting at about $35 per person).

Copenhot is a perfect thing to do on a cold, dreary day in the city (and bonus points if it’s drizzling or snowing).

8. United Sailing Ships Harbor Cruise

• 2-hour narrated harbor cruise
• Sail on a wooden schooner from the early 1900s
• $53 per person
• Option to help hoist the sails
• Fruit and drinks included

With United Sailing Ships , you can hop on a classic, wooden schooner with huge, white sails from the early 1900s for a relaxing 2-hour cruise in the Copenhagen harbor. When else can you get a chance like that?

On one of the United Sailing Ships harbor cruises, you’ll see the main Copenhagen harbor sights that the other cruises pass but just not get to go down the small, colorful canals (for obvious reasons). However, you will get the amazing, unique experience of sailing on a traditional schooner on the water and relaxing without the noise of an engine once the sails are hoisted.

You can choose between a sailing cruise (where you can help with the sails) or the harbor cruise (where you get to see the bridges lift). Plus, you’ll get fruit and drinks while on your cruise as a nice added bonus.

Are any of these canal tours in Copenhagen included in the Copenhagen Card?

Yes! If you haven’t heard, the Copenhagen Card is a great way to save money on experiences in Copenhagen if you plan to visit multiple attractions. You can purchase a card valid for one day or multiple-day increments to receive free entrance to 89 attractions and ride for free on public transit!

And the great news is, with the Copenhagen Card , you can take a ride on both the Stromma canal cruise AND the Netto Bådene canal cruise.

Which tour is the best canal tour in Copenhagen?

All of these canal tours are great in their own unique way! Choose a canal tour based on what is important to you. For example, do you want a narrated tour or a self-guided tour? Which tour fits your budget? Do you have a lot of time or just a short amount of time?

And if you aren’t sure if you want to take a tour or not, if you have the Copenhagen Card you can always decide to hop on one for free at the last minute.

Are Copenhagen canal tours kid-friendly?

Definitely! We have taken our toddler on all three of the boat tours we have taken in Copenhagen. Just be sure to check the specific tour’s website before you book in case you have any questions.

For example, you must be 18 years old for the floating hot tub and there may a minimum age for the kayak tour.

Are any of these a Nyhavn boat tour?

Nyhavn is famous for being an idyllic canal lined with colorful buildings and old sailboats so I’m sure you’re wondering if you’ll get to see Nyhavn on your boat tour (rightly so). And the answer is yes!

Two of the tours’ loading docks ( Stromma and Netto Bådene) are located directly in Nyhavn harbor (so obviously you’ll ride through Nyhavn) and the other tours will all pass by Nyhavn even if they don’t go directly down the canal.

Nyhavn is a very short offshoot of the main harbor canal so even if you don’t load your boat in the canal, you’ll be able to pass by and see it. Plus, Nyhavn isn’t the only colorful, cute area lining the canals in Copenhagen. Christianshavn is just as cute but less crowded, lined with even more boats, and another awesome stop on these canal tour routes.

Can I take a canal cruise in Copenhagen if it’s raining?

Let’s be honest, it rains a lot in Copenhagen… like, a lot. So it’s very possible you may run into rain during your canal cruise. But no worries, in the winter months when you are most likely to run into drizzly weather (October-March) the two large canal tours ( Stromma and Netto Bådene) provide covered boats with windows to help keep you warm and out of the rain.

Even the smaller and more intimate boat tour, Hey Captain , provides a convertible roof and blankets to help keep you cozy and warm. However, if you are booking a boat rental via GoBoat , or a kayak tour via Kayak Republic , it will be more up to you to keep dry during your time on the water.

Just be sure to check the website of the canal tour you decide to book to know what to expect in case of inclement weather.

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

• The Ultimate Cheaps Eats Copenhagen Food Guide
• 24 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Copenhagen Denmark

The Only Itinerary You Need for One Day in Copenhagen

How to visit islands brygge harbour bath in copenhagen (havnebadet islands brygge).

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And those are the 8 unique canal cruises in Copenhagen that I recommend! Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions about Copenhagen or Denmark as we are residents here and I’d love to help you out.

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Copenhagen Boat and Canal Tours

This post covers the best boat tours, cruises, and canal tours available in Copenhagen.

You’ll find details about when they are available, how long they run, and how to save money on the activity.

• Canal Cruises

Lake Cruises

• Hop-on Hop-off
• Deals and Discounts
• Tips From Locals and Travelers
• Free Copenhagen Walking Tours

Copenhagen Canal Cruises

There are currently a few different canal cruises available in Copenhagen, and they are each very reasonably priced at around €10-€15 per person.

Most of them provide free cancellation and full refund services.

The cost might decrease if you buy tickets in a group or use some discount cards discussed later in this post.

These outings are a great way to get a look at the most notable sites of Copenhagen from the water, offering a unique perspective on the many landmarks surrounding the canals.

You can typically expect to see at least a few of the following attractions on these boat tours:

• Amalienborg Palace
• Christiansborg Palace
• Little Mermaid Statue
• Nyhavn Waterfront

If you’re interested in seeing these landmarks, consider one of the following cruises on Copenhagen's canals.

Most Copenhagen Canal Tours last for approximately an hour, but some are as long as 2 hours.

The canal boats in Copenhagen don't go more than 6 knots, so the speed is safe for all the riders.

For more information or advice from people who have actually taken these cruises, make sure to read our section covering tips from locals and travelers .

This is one of the most well-known tour companies in Denmark, and they currently offer one of the best canal cruises in Copenhagen.

Running for approximately 1 hour, this cruise departs from Nyhavn and takes you along the main harbor to see some of the most beautiful houses, ancient castles, and historic and beautiful churches in the city.

This is a round-trip cruise, so you will return to the same dock at Nyhavn once it is complete. They even provide ponchos in the event of rain!

• €17.50/Adults | €8.75/Youth (6-15)
• Hours: 9 am - 6 pm
• Duration: 1 hour
• Availability: Returning in February.
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 , it’s safe to say that most tourists enjoyed this canal cruise).

They also have a cruise from Ved Stranden which is actually a bit cheaper, as prices start at just €14.50 .

Many travelers report that their tour guide or live guide is very helpful and informative, and they actually provide the tour in English.

Several reviewers felt this was a great way to experience Copenhagen sightseeing, some even going so far as to say this was the best part of their trip.

Hey Captain

If you’re looking for a canal cruise adventure that lasts a bit longer, this 2-hour outing is an excellent option. 

In addition to all the major sites, this boat tour also goes off the beaten track to see other notable locations in Copenhagen.

While on this tour, you can expect to learn about some of the best places to grab a cup of coffee or a glass of beer. You’ll also see sites in the north or south harbor.

• €53.65 per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Availability: (Almost) Daily at 1 pm

Although this canal cruise comes with a higher ticket price than its competition, they have still received an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars .

Most guests felt that the tour guides were beneficial and informative, some even indicating they were given blankets on a cold day so they could keep warm.

Even those who took the boat tour on a rainy day were impressed with their experience and appreciated the opportunity to see sights of interest that were off the beaten path.

There are a lot of lakes near Copenhagen, and if you’re interested in making a trip out to these beautiful areas of Denmark, you can usually enjoy a cruise or boat trip on these bodies of water as well.

This section covers some of the best lake cruises in and around Copenhagen.

Stromma/Baadfarten

In addition to their Copenhagen canal cruises, this company also offers boat trips to a variety of lakes just outside of the city.

They’re currently working with a company known as Baadfarten to provide this service.

If you plan to visit these areas of Denmark, you might want to consider one of the following services.

Each of these services is hop-on hop-off, which means your ticket for the boat will be active for an entire day, and you can hop on or off at your own discretion to explore multiple stops.

If you choose to stay on the boat, the entire trip takes between 1-2 hours.

Boat Trip on Furesøen Lake

• €11.97/Adults | €5.98/Youth (6-15)
• Duration: 1 day
• Availability: Sunday

Boat Ride on Bagsværd Lake

• Availability: Tuesday - Sunday

Boat Trip on Lyngby Lake and Millstream

• Availability: Tuesday - Sunday.

These cruises will start operating from May 2024.

All of these services are pretty well reviewed, receiving a rating of 4.7 out of 5 or better.

Most guests really enjoy these lake cruises, some noting that the opportunity to see beautiful natural Denish sights is an excellent idea.

Reviewers indicate that their tour guides are nice and helpful and the boat trips offer excellent value for the money.

Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tours

In addition to all the other boat tours and canal cruises in Copenhagen, there are also hop-on hop-off boat services.

Unfortunately, these boat tours are not being offered in 2024.

That said, when they do start to offer these outings again, you’ll find that most of them are likely to be included at no extra cost with a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

In addition to their standard 1-hour canal cruise, this company also offers a hop-on hop-off boat tour around Copenhagen with multiple stops throughout the city.

Much like a hop-on hop-off bus tour, your ticket will last for 2 days, and you’ll have the opportunity to get on the boat at any designated stop and jump off wherever you want.

The overall tour takes approximately 90 minutes to complete, and you can expect to see a variety of sites such as Christiansborg Palace, the Little Mermaid, the Opera, the National Bank of Denmark, and more.

• €14.65 per person
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Winter Hours: 9:30 am - 3 pm
• Summer Hours: 9:45 am - 5:15 pm
• Availability: Daily (when the tour is running)

NOTE: This tour is currently not available as of March 2024.

TIP: This service is often included at no additional cost with Stromma’s hop-on hop-off bus tour .

As with their other canal cruises, Stromma typically receives great reviews for their hop-on hop-off boat tours, and they currently enjoy an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars .

Some guests described the outing as convenient and relaxing, but others felt it was merely an average experience.

Whether it’s the best Copenhagen boat tour or not, this is an excellent way to get around the city and see some of the most notable and historic landmarks from the water.

An exciting way to see the main sights and learn more about the history of Copenhagen!

There are a variety of different ways to save money on Copenhagen boat tours and canal cruises.

This section will cover the best deals and discounts on this activity, including tourist passes and combo deals.

Copenhagen Tourist Passes

There are multiple tourist passes available in Copenhagen that include canal boat tours at no additional cost.

If you’re planning to enjoy a number of activities and Copenhagen's best sights while you’re here, these services could help you save 50% or more on tickets.

Here are the boat tours and cruises currently offered with Copenhagen tourist passes:

Copenhagen Card

• Also on the Copenhagen City Pass
• Furesøen Lake
• Bagsværd Lake
• Lyngby Lake and Millstream

Copenhagen City Pass

• Stromma Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour

These tourist passes also include access to a lot of other popular activities including the following:

• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
• Copenhagen Zoo
• CopenHill Ski Slope
• Experimentarium
• Kronborg Castle
• National Museum
• Tivoli Gardens

If you’re interested in any of the following tours or attractions, make sure to read more about these services in our post covering Copenhagen tourist passes .

Combo Packages

One of the most popular combo deals in Copenhagen includes both a hop-on hop-off bus and boat tour for one low price.

While this package usually includes a hop-on hop-off boat tour, at the moment they are only offering a 1-hour canal cruise.

This service is only available during the spring and summer.

When hop-on hop-off boat tours return in 2024, chances are they will once again begin offering this option instead.

• 24 Hour Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour
• 1 Hour Copenhagen Canal Cruise
• €24.50/Adults | €15.00/Kids

Tips From Travelers and Locals

There are several great Facebook Groups where both travelers and locals will share their suggestions for fun activities like these canal tours.

The Wonderful Copenhagen group is one of the best for travelers visiting this city, and there are several helpful tips for those interested in a cruise down the canals.

This user notes that the public ferry in Copenhagen is a much more affordable option, and it covers much of the same ground.

You can use the ferry by getting a 24 hour ticket, which is good on all of their public transportation.

Even after you ride the ferry, you'll still be able to ride the bus, train, and metro as well!

Although public ferries might be more affordable, this group member insists that the tour is better, because your guide will teach you various facts about the city along the way.

Another user notes that if you are using the Copenhagen Card to save money on this activity, you'll have to catch the boat at Ved Stranden.

If you're currently in Nyhavn and interested in taking the canal tour, this could be inconvenient.

While many will want to consider the public ferries instead of an official canal tour, some group members still find the more expensive services are worth the price thanks to their much more comfortable boats.

For even more helpful advice, don't forget to check the Wonderful Copenhagen group on Facebook!

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About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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Enjoy tapas in the canals

Rent a canal boat for your private tour and invite your guests on a tapas cruise. Spice up your conference, your kick-off, your party, or event - add a canal tour and enjoy your dinner while cruising the canals of Copenhagen.

Tapas is suitable both for lunch and dinner. The surroundings guarantee an unforgettable experience around Copenhagen's beautiful canals and harbor and with a delicious meal made from the best Italian ingredients delivered by Supermarco, you will have a successful event. Read more about our restaurant boats here .

The event is yours, so you decide departure point, time, and route. We will of course be at your service to help plan the best canal tour.

If you have any particular requests, we will do our best comply with these. Please feel free to contact our booking department on +45 32 96 30 00 if you have any questions.

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