HOW TO EXPERIENCE COPENHAGEN LIKE A LOCAL
Copenhagen is a city best experienced by combining iconic landmarks with personal, local experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a city break, a weekend getaway, or a business trip, there are excursions that let you experience the very best of the city — without stress or wasted time.
Here are 5 excursions in Copenhagen that I highly recommend if you want to experience the city in a more exclusive and memorable way.
1. Tivoli – classic, atmospheric and timeless
A visit to Tivoli is almost a must — and for good reason. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, this is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, where beautiful gardens, rides, restaurants and concerts come together in a truly special atmosphere.
Tivoli is perfect both during the day and in the evening and suits couples, friends and solo travelers alike. It’s not just an amusement park, but a sensory experience that offers a unique glimpse into Danish culture and hygge.
Good for: First-time visitors, romantic evenings and short stays
Tip: Combine your entrance ticket with dinner or a concert for the full experience
🔗 Book Tivoli tickets here
To avoid queues and plan your visit in advance, you can book tickets online. It’s easy and gives you more time to enjoy the experience.
👉 See current tickets and opening hours here
2. Guided tour of Copenhagen with lunch
If you want to get to know Copenhagen in a short amount of time, a guided city tour with lunch is an ideal choice. You’ll learn about the city’s history, see the main sights and hear local stories — all while enjoying a great meal along the way.
This type of tour is perfect if you want to skip planning and simply sit back and have everything arranged for you in one seamless experience.
Good for: First-time visits, business travelers and short city breaks
Benefit: An efficient, informative and relaxed way to experience the city
🔗 Book a guided tour with lunch in Copenhagen
This guided tour is perfect if you want to experience the city’s highlights without planning the route yourself. Ideal for both short stays and first-time visitors.
👉 See guided tours with lunch here
3. Rent a boat in Copenhagen – GoBoat, no license required
Experiencing Copenhagen from the water is truly something special. With GoBoat, you can sail through the city’s canals yourself — no boating license required — and enjoy the city at your own pace.
It’s a relaxed and social experience where you can bring snacks and drinks on board and enjoy front-row views of Copenhagen’s architecture.
Good for: Friends, couples and casual experiences
Highlight: Freedom, calm and a completely new perspective on the city
🔗 Rent a GoBoat and experience Copenhagen from the water
Explore the city at your own pace with GoBoat — no license required. One of the most relaxing and popular experiences in Copenhagen.
4. Private food walking tour – taste your way through Copenhagen
A private food walking tour is for those who want to experience Copenhagen through its food. You’ll be guided to carefully selected spots where you’ll taste both classic and modern Danish specialties — often in places you wouldn’t discover on your own.
The private format allows for questions, flexibility and personal customization, making the experience both intimate and exclusive.
Good for: Food lovers, couples and small groups
Bonus: Local insight and authentic tasting experiences
🔗 Book a private food tour in Copenhagen
A private food tour gives you access to local flavors and insider knowledge. Perfect if you want to experience Copenhagen through food and culture.
5. Private bike tour in Copenhagen – like a local
Copenhagen is one of the world’s best cycling cities, and a private bike tour is a fantastic way to experience it. With a local guide, you’ll explore both well-known landmarks and hidden gems — without ever feeling like a tourist.
The pace is tailored to you, giving you a relaxed yet informative experience of the city.
Good for: Active sightseeing and authentic experiences
Perfect for: Those who want to experience Copenhagen the way locals do
🔗 Book a private bike tour with a local guide
Experience Copenhagen like a local — by bike. With a private guide, you get flexibility, insight and access to the city’s hidden gems.
👉 Find private bike tours in Copenhagen here
Experience Copenhagen – without missing what matters most
These five excursions offer a well-balanced mix of culture, food, nature and city life. Whether you’re in Copenhagen for work or leisure, these are experiences that create lasting memories and help you make the most of your time in the city.
💡 Tip: Book your experiences in advance, especially during high season, to secure availability and enjoy a stress-free trip.
Ad / Affiliate disclosure:
This post contains affiliate links. If you book through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are based on personal experience and research.