Why The Best Way To Explore Copenhagen Is By Boat

There are many ways to explore Copenhagen’s attractions including by bike, on feet, or by using the means of public transportation; however, many travellers choose to explore Copenhagen from the water simply because it’s the funniest and easiest way. Whether tourists choose to book a place on a sightseeing boat or rent their own, floating in the city’s scenic canals will be a unique experience.

København: The Merchant’s Harbour

Copenhagen has always been considered one of the most important harbor cities in the north. Well, the fact that København (Copenhagen in Danish) consists of two words with the latter meaning harbour—the original name was Køpmannæhafn, which translates to ‘merchant’s harbour’. It is said that what attracted the first people to settle in Copenhagen back in the 11th century was the harbour and the large quantity of herring in the area. The fishing and herring trades were the main occupations of the citizens and the reason Køpmannæhafn developed rapidly and became one of the richest cities in the region.

Locals’ water-front activities

Scenic canals, artificial lakes, the Amager Beach, and the historic Nyhavn are some of locals’ favourite hangouts and some of the places to see while visiting Copenhagen. Water is everywhere in Copenhagen, and that’s one of the things that makes it one of the most beautiful Scandinavian cities. Those travelling to Copenhagen during summer can see locals hanging out at the wooden platforms by the canals and at the area around The Lakes (Søerne) while others take a dive in the outdoor pools or practice their paddling skills in the harbour. Follow their example and do the same while exploring the city’s attractions. There are several choices and all of them are fun.

The Lakes (Søerne), Copenhagen, Denmark

Lay back, soak up some sun and see Copenhagen’s most noteworthy attractions

Grab a sightseeing boat if possible and explore some of the most known touristic attractions. There are plenty of boats departing every day and some of the places to explore by the waterfront include the Little Mermaid, the Opera House, Amalienborg Palace, the Black Diamond, the Old Stock Exchange, and other modern architectural masterpieces and historic buildings. A live guide will narrate in English each building’s history. In one hour, riders will have seen some of the most significant monuments without even breaking a sweat. It’s also the ideal way for those with layovers or who are only visiting for a short time to explore the city.

Hold a picnic on the water

If joining large groups of tourists during a holiday is cringe-worthy, those who prefer to go off the beaten path and create their own route rent their own boat. Locals do it all the time, and it doesn’t require a driving license. It’s much more expensive than sightseeing tours, but it could be worth spending more for those who want to be their own captain. The rented boats usually have a small table in their centre, so buy some snacks and beverages before climbing on board.

For those who don’t want to break the bank

Want to take a boat tour without breaking the budget? Worry not. The harbour buses cost as much as a normal bus ticket (24 DKK; €3.22; $3.81) and pass by the Little Mermaid, the Opera House, Nyhavn, and the Royal Library. Moreover, it isn’t as crowded as the touristic boats so, introverts should look for lines 991, 992, and 993.

Sweat it out in the water

Fitness enthusiasts, grab some paddles and start floating in Copenhagen’s canals. It’s a great way to explore the city, have fun, and keep fit while travelling. Kayak Republic organizes two-hour city tours, architecture tours, and a Nordic food tour. After kayaking and sightseeing, make sure to grab an ice-cold cocktail at Kayak Bar and enjoy the wooden platforms by the waterfront, beach chairs, sand, and cool music.

Kayak Bar, Børskaj 12, Copenhaven, Denmark, +45 30 49 00 13

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.