Ultimate One-Day Walking Tour of Copenhagen: Historic Sights, Shopping, and Sunset at Reffen

Day 1: Comprehensive Copenhagen Exploration

Copenhagen, Denmark on May 24, 2025

11:00am

Arrival and Start at Amalienborg Palace

Arrive and begin your day at Amalienborg Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard at 12:00pm. The palace is the residence of the Danish royal family and it's a must-see for its grandeur and culture.
FREE, 1h

12:00pm

Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace

Enjoy the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, an iconic Danish tradition happening every day at noon, featuring soldiers, horse guards, and royal music.
FREE, 30m

12:30pm

Visit Frederik's Church (The Marble Church)

Walk a short distance to Frederik's Church known for its striking rococo architecture and impressive dome. The church is very close to Amalienborg Palace.
FREE, 30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Esplanaden

Enjoy a cozy Danish lunch near Kastellet at Café Esplanaden, offering traditional Danish smørrebrød and fresh salads, open from 11am–4pm.
DKK150 approx., 1h

2:00pm

Walk through Kastellet and see Little Mermaid Monument

Stroll through the historic Kastellet fortress and then head to the famous Little Mermaid statue, a Copenhagen icon situated on the waterfront.
FREE, 1h

3:00pm

Botanical Garden Visit

Next, walk to the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis showcasing thousands of plant species and impressive glasshouses. It’s open until 6pm.
FREE, 1h

4:00pm

Rosenborg Castle and King's Garden

Explore Rosenborg Castle with its royal treasures and enjoy the surrounding King's Garden, perfect for a calm stroll. The castle closes at 5pm.
DKK120, 1h

5:00pm

Round Tower and Old Library

Walk to the Round Tower, an iconic 17th-century observatory, walk up to enjoy panoramic views. The adjacent Old Library displays historical literary artifacts.
DKK40, 45m

5:45pm

Royal Library (The Black Diamond)

Visit The Black Diamond, the modern extension of the Royal Library, admired for its architecture and waterfront views. Open until 6pm.
FREE, 30m

6:15pm

Dinner at Nyhavn Harbour

Dine along the colorful Nyhavn waterfront at one of the lively restaurants like Nyhavns Færgekro, serving excellent Danish and international cuisine. Open till late.
DKK200 approx., 1h

7:30pm

Visit Christiansborg Palace and Tower

Explore Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament with its royal reception rooms, and climb the tower for stunning city views. Open until 5pm, but exterior and tower accessible slightly later if timed well.
DKK160, 45m

8:15pm

Chill at Gammel Strand

Relax along the scenic canal-side area of Gammel Strand, known for its picturesque atmosphere and cafes.
FREE, 30m

8:45pm

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Art Museum

If time permits (open until 9pm), visit the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek to see fine art collections and beautiful winter gardens.
DKK115, 45m

9:30pm

Head to Reffen for Sunset and Evening Drinks

Take a short Uber ride (reasonable split cost) to Reffen, the vibrant street food market by the water, perfect for enjoying the sunset atmosphere and drinks.
FREE entry, drinks pay as you go, 1h

10:30pm

Cocktails at Delphine

Cap off the night with expertly crafted cocktails at Delphine, a trendy cocktail bar in Copenhagen city center, open late until 2am.
DKK120 per cocktail, 45m

11:15pm

Departure to Malmö

Head to the train or bus station for your journey to Malmö, aiming for departure around 11 - 11:30pm.
Varies by ticket, Until 12am