Ultimate Copenhagen Walking Tour: Palaces, Gardens, Iconic Spots & Nightlife

Day 1: Copenhagen Highlights

Copenhagen, Denmark on May 24, 2025

11:00am

Arrival & Start Walking Tour

Arrive at Copenhagen Central Station and begin your walking tour heading northeast to Rosenborg Castle, viewing the grounds and gardens for photos without entry. Nearby sits the Botanical Garden, perfect for a serene walk through diverse flora. Both places are open from 10:00am so your timing is perfect.
0 DKK, 1h30m

12:30pm

Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace

Walk or take a short Uber ride east to Amalienborg Palace to witness the traditional changing of the guard at 12:00pm (it actually starts at noon and lasts 30 minutes). Enjoy photos of the palace exterior and square, which is free to the public.
0 DKK, 45m

1:15pm

Lunch at Nyhavn

Stroll about 15 minutes south from Amalienborg to colorful Nyhavn harbor. Enjoy a classic Danish lunch of smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) at Nyhavn 17, open until 4:00pm, giving you local charm and waterside views.
150 DKK approx, 1h

2:15pm

Round Tower and Old Royal Library

Head southwest to Round Tower (Rundetårn), open until 6:00pm, to climb the spiral ramp for panoramic city views. Then visit the adjacent Old Royal Library (Det Kongelige Bibliotek), Europe's oldest royal library with free entry, to admire historic architecture.
40 DKK for Round Tower, 0 DKK Library, 1h30m

3:45pm

Frederik's Church (The Marble Church)

Walk east to Frederik's Church, open to visitors during the day with no entry fee, for stunning rococo architecture and the grand dome.
0 DKK, 30m

4:15pm

Christiansborg Palace and Tower

Short walk to Christiansborg Palace grounds and tower. While the interior requires a ticket, you can explore the palace courtyard and climb the tower for free panoramic views. Tower closes around 5:00pm, so time your visit accordingly.
0 DKK, 45m

5:00pm

Gammel Strand Relaxation

Walk to nearby Gammel Strand, a charming historic waterfront area to relax and people watch for about 30 minutes.
0 DKK, 30m

5:30pm

Visit Shops: Flying Tiger, Normal, IVAN Alexis, Hay House

Walk to the shopping areas near Strøget and City Hall to check out popular stores Flying Tiger (open till 7pm), Normal (till 6pm), IVAN Alexis, and Hay House. Great chance for souvenirs and trendy Danish design.
Variable, 1h

6:30pm

Hard Rock Café and LEGO Store Visit

Head towards Tivoli Gardens area to see the LEGO flagship store (open until 7pm). Nearby visit Hard Rock Café for a quick look or dinner option if desired.
Free to enter LEGO store; meal extra if eating, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Palads Cinema Area

Dine near Palads cinema district with many restaurants. Try Palæo restaurant or the cinema cafés for a reasonable dinner before heading out for your evening plans.
200 DKK approx, 1h

8:00pm

Church of Our Saviour

Evening visit to Church of Our Saviour, open until 8:30pm on Saturdays and possibly Sundays (check ahead), with its famous spiral tower climb offering excellent city views before sunset. If closed, enjoy the exterior and nearby harbor walk.
40 DKK, 45m

8:45pm

Christiania Tour & Kastellet Walk

Walk to nearby unique district Christiania to experience alternative lifestyle vibes and colorful street art. Then stroll through Kastellet, the star-shaped fortress park, open until dusk.
0 DKK, 1h

9:45pm

Sunset at Reffen

Uber (cost split 4 ways) about 15 minutes to Reffen, the street food market and harbor area, to catch sunset over Copenhagen’s harbor with a lively atmosphere and food stalls. Great spot to relax and enjoy drinks.
0 DKK (food/drinks extra), 1h15m

11:00pm

Cocktails at Delphine

Head back to central Copenhagen for cocktails at Delphine bar, open until midnight, known for stylish ambiance and great drinks.
150 DKK approx, 45m

11:45pm

Departure to Malmö

Make your way (walking or Uber) to Central Station to catch your train or bus to Malmö, aiming for departure around 11:11pm or 11:30pm.
Train/bus ticket cost extra, 30m
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