Copenhagen is known for its picturesque canals and waterfront areas. Taking a boat tour is a great way to explore the city from a different perspective and it's one of my favorite activities on my trip. Here's a quick guide on what to see when you go on a canal tour and how to book it.
What to See on a Copenhagen Canal Tour
Nyhavn
This iconic and colorful harbor is a must-see in Copenhagen. The 17th-century waterfront, lined with brightly colored buildings, is a picturesque setting with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. You'll also find historic wooden ships docked here.
Holmen
This area is home to the Royal Danish Navy and has a mix of historic and modern architecture. Some boat tours pass by this naval area, providing a glimpse of the naval history of Denmark. Also on the island of Holmen, you'll see the Opera House, which is an impressive modern building designed by Henning Larsen. It looks stunning from the water, and some boat tours pass by it.
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| the Danish Opera House |
Christianshavn
This neighborhood is known for its canals, historic buildings, and the famous Christiania, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood with a unique atmosphere. Boat tours often navigate through the canals of Christianshavn.
The Inner Harbor
Cruise through the inner harbor to enjoy the cityscape and see landmarks like the Royal Palace of Amalienborg and the Marble Church, also known as Frederik's Church.
Modern Architecture and Unique Bridges
Some canal tours might take you to see modern architectural gems, including the Royal Playhouse and Black Diamond, also known as the Royal Danish Library. The tour that I joined took us to a residential waterfront area with lots of interesting-looking modern buildings where locals actually live.
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| the Circle Bridge with the Black Diamond behind it |
In addition, the city is connected by several bridges and each one has its own unique design. Some boat tours take you under these bridges, offering a different perspective of the city.
How to Book a Canal Tour
Booking a Copenhagen canal tour is a straightforward process, and there are various companies offering boat tours in the city. Some well-known companies include Hey Captain, Netto-Bådene, and Canal Tours Copenhagen.
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| a modern-looking building in a residential area |
For spontaneous travelers, you can often find ticket booths near popular tourist areas or directly at the departure points. This allows you to book on the spot. If you purchased the Copenhagen Card, then it already includes a free canal tour via a tour company called Stromma. You just have to go to the departure point and choose a time slot.
If you're visiting Copenhagen, then joining a canal tour is a must-do activity. Different canal tours may cover different areas, so it's always a good idea to check the specific itinerary of the tour you're interested in to ensure it covers the sights you want to see.
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