7 Best Canal Tours in Copenhagen | Unique Sightseeing Options

If you’re wondering about the best way to check out Copenhagen, let me tell you—grabbing a canal tour is a good start.

I’ve been living here for 10 solid years, and honestly, taking a boat ride through the city’s canals is what we locals do for a bit of fun in the sun, a different spin on work hangouts, or to add some extra sparkle to special days like a friends bachelorette or treating your mum.

I’ve pretty much tried all the canal tours in town and let me be the first to say, it never gets old. It’s like you’re chilling on a floating couch with the city unfolding around you.

So, I’m here to give you the lowdown on the top spots for a canal cruise that’ll show you the best of Denmark from a whole new angle.

I just want to quickly add, that many tours in Copenhagen are included in the Copenhagen City Card. So I can recommend you get one if you plan on doing a few different activities!

Let’s dive into where you can kick back, relax, and sail through the best parts of the city. Ready to find out which boat to hop on?

Just keep reading below.

What is the Best Canal Tour in Copenhagen?

Alright, let’s ease into the juicy part.

So you’re strapped in and ready to glide through Copenhagen’s waterways, but you’re probably wondering, “What’s the best canal tour out there?”

Here’s the scoop: the top tours should not only swing by all the must-see spots but also be easy to get to because, let’s be honest, no one wants to spend their day figuring out a map when there’s so much to see.

The best picks are the ones that take you past the famous Little Mermaid statue, under the kiss of the sun at Nyhavn, and give you those postcard-perfect views of colorful townhouses and ancient castles.

Convenience is key; you want to hop on, chill out, and soak up the sights without a hassle.

So, let’s take a look at the tours that tick all these boxes and more.

The Classic Canal Tour

Jumping into the heart of Copenhagen’s beauty has never been easier than with the Classic Canal Tour.

In just an hour, you’ll be whisked away on a journey through the city’s most scenic waterways, catching sight of famous landmarks like the Little Mermaid, the regal Amalienborg Palace, and the modern marvel that is the Copenhagen Opera House.

Imagine this: you’re comfortably seated with a live guide sharing fascinating facts and stories, so you’re not just seeing Copenhagen, you’re getting to know it—no reading required, no risk of seasickness from looking down at your phone or guidebook.

Finally, this tour is covered by the Copenhagen City Card.

Here’s why this tour is a traveler’s dream:

Netto Bådene Boat Canal Tour

If you’re nodding along to the perks of the Classic Canal Tour above but are on the lookout for something with a tad more old-school charm and a friendlier price tag, the Netto Bådene Boat Tour is your match.

It’s the original canal tour that set the scene for all others in Copenhagen, offering a similar route with a sprinkle of nostalgia.

Much like its counterpart, this 60-minute tour sails you by the city’s highlights while you kick back and listen to tales of yore.

The bonus?

A guide chatters away in Danish, English, and German, meaning you’ll get the lowdown in the language you’re most comfy with.

And let’s be real—having a live person spinning the city’s stories beats reading from a screen, especially when you’re trying to actually sightsee.

Hey Captain Canal Tours

For those looking to get up close and personal with Copenhagen from its waters, Hey Captain Tours is like the cool friend who knows just the right spots.

This guided tour isn’t your standard large group tour; it’s an intimate get-together with just 12 people on board, where the sailor turns tour guide and shapes the journey around what you and your new mates want to see and know.

Sure, this tour is a bit pricier, but hey, you’re paying for an experience that’s tailored, intimate, and heaps more social than your standard fare.

If you’re someone who enjoys the finer things and doesn’t mind paying a little extra for a premium guided canal tour, Hey Captain is your go-to for exploring the canals.

Here’s the deal with this exclusive little adventure:

GoBoat Rental

GoBoat sailing in Copenhagen is the ultimate DIY adventure on the water.

Picture this: you, your friends, or colleagues, all together, taking in the city from the cozy confines of your very own picnic boat.

It’s an intimate setup where you’re the skipper, steering through the canals at your own pace, creating that special Danish “hygge” on the waves.

Whether you’re a local looking for a unique day out or a visitor wanting to see the city through a different lens, this is as personal and laid-back as canal tours get.

It’s a bit like the Hey Captain tours, but here you’re in charge, charting your own adventure.

Just remember, while you’re savoring the cityscape and the company, keep the swimming for the shore and the drinks for the dock.

Wooden Sailing Ship Tours

For those with a taste for the traditional and a love for the maritime and Baltic sea, the Sejlture i København offers an enchanting sail through Copenhagen’s harbor aboard one of De Forenede Sejlskibes’s stunning schooners.

This tour isn’t just a trip; it’s a step into Denmark’s rich nautical heritage, perfect for families or anyone looking to switch up the pace and soak in the city’s vistas from a classic wooden ship.

Sejlture i København is for the sea romantics, the history buffs, and those looking to experience the charm of the Danish capital in the most timeless way possible.

Yes, it’s a bit pricier and takes a chunk of your day, but for those drawn to the creak of wood and the billow of sails, this is more than a tour—it’s a vivid page of history coming alive beneath your feet.

If you’re ready to slow down and have a unique experience, this is your call to sail.

Kayak Republic

Kayak Republic offers a fresh, active twist to sightseeing with their Copenhagen Kayak Tours.

Perfect for team-building or just a lively day out with friends, this tour has you paddling through the heart of Copenhagen, meshing adventure with iconic sights.

With two tours to choose from, the Copenhagen Tour offers a traditional sightseeing experience, while the Clean Up Tour adds an eco-conscious angle, allowing you to contribute to the city’s cleanliness and learn about its sustainable initiatives.

Both end with the option to chill at the Kayak Bar, sharing stories under palm trees.

So grab your sportswear, a towel, and your sense of adventure, and prepare to explore Copenhagen on a kayak tour.

Just remember, you’ve got to be sober, swim-ready, and set for some fun on the water.

Copenhot Sailing Hot Tubs

Imagine drifting through Copenhagen’s harbor, warm and bubbly in a hot tub, with the city’s skyline as your backdrop.

That’s what Copenhot brings to the table—an unparalleled sailing experience where you can soak in a hot tub while floating by the city’s sights.

This 2-hour guided sailing adventure isn’t just unique; it’s the definition of indulgence, Danish style.

Copenhot’s sailing hot tubs offer a slice of “hygge” that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Whether it’s a chill day or the skies are gracing you with snowflakes, there’s no cozier way to sail.

And if the hot tub boat tour is a stretch for your wallet, Copenhot’s still got you covered with their more wallet-friendly waterfront tubs and saunas.

It’s an experience designed for those special days when you want to treat yourself to a luxurious and different canal tour!

How Does a Canal Tour in Copenhagen Benefit You?

You might be wondering if doing a canal tour is worth it. I get it. For some, it might even sound a bit boring. But it is a great way to see the city. Here is how it benefits you as a traveler:

Cultural Immersion: Glide past centuries-old buildings and hear stories that textbooks can’t tell, providing a deeper connection to Copenhagen’s history.

Time Efficiency: With a comprehensive route, you cover more ground (or water) in less time, seeing the best of the city without foot fatigue.

Relaxation: There’s a soothing quality to being on the water. It’s a calm interlude in the hustle of travel, offering a moment to breathe and just be.

Social Interaction: Tours offer a chance to meet fellow travelers and locals, sharing experiences and recommendations.

Where do the Boat Tours Depart from?

Navigating your way to a canal tour in Copenhagen is as breezy as a Danish summer day.

While each canal tour has its unique charm, they all conveniently depart from central spots in the city.

To make it even simpler for you, I’ve whipped up a handy map that pinpoints exactly where you need to be for your maritime adventure.

Just scroll down a tad, and you’ll find a clear layout showing you where to embark on your chosen canal tour.

Map of Canal Tours Copenhagen

How to Choose the Best Copenhagen Canal Tour for You

Choosing the best Copenhagen canal tour is all about matching the experience to your vibe.

Want a classic, no-fuss tour? Go for a guided boat tour with a live narrator.

Fancy being your own pilot? A GoBoat might be your style.

If history’s your thing, opt for a traditional schooner.

For something more active, kayak your way through the idyllic canals.

And for sheer luxury, why not a hot tub boat?

Consider your group size, interests, and budget, and you’ll find the perfect fit.

Are the Canal Tours in Copenhagen Included in the Copenhagen Card?

Yes, some of the claasic canal tours in Copenhagen are indeed covered by the Copenhagen City Card. It’s a great perk that allows you to enjoy certain tours at no extra cost.

However, be sure to check the latest details on the Copenhagen Card’s official site or inquire when purchasing, as offerings can change.

This way, you can plan your sightseeing smoothly and maybe even save some Danish Krone for a delightful post-tour treat!

Buyers Guide: How I Conducted My Research

When it comes to selecting the best tours in Copenhagen, I’ve poured over the details with a fine-tooth comb to bring you recommendations you can trust.

Here’s how I did it:

Insider Knowledge: Living in Copenhagen has its perks, including a deep understanding of the city’s pulse. This insider’s view guided my assessment of the tours’ entertainment value and authenticity.

Value Analysis: I scrutinized the costs, comparing them against the local standard to ensure you get the most bang for your buck without compromising quality.

Route Scrutiny: With a mental map of Copenhagen’s landmarks, I dissected the tour routes, targeting those that balance iconic sights with hidden corners of the city.

Unique Selling Points: Every tour has its gems—I highlighted what sets each apart, from exclusive paths to the expertise of the guides.

Drawbacks: Transparency is key, so I’ve also pointed out where tours may fall short, whether it’s in comprehensive coverage, price, or tour length.

Customer Assurance: I considered the level of support these tours offer, from responsive customer service to fair refund policies, for peace of mind when booking.

Conclusion

So there you have it!

Whether you’re a history buff, a luxury seeker, an eco-warrior, or simply in for some good old-fashioned “hygge,” Copenhagen boat tours offer something for everyone.

Additionally, each tour has its unique flair and provides a different lens through which to view the city’s beauty and charm, making it a must for anyone spending a few days in Copenhagen.

So pick the canal tour that floats your boat, and get ready to see Copenhagen from its best angle—the water.

And don’t stop here; for more great things to do in and around this vibrant city, make sure to read my comprehensive city guide.

//Josephine

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