What is the best time to see the Changing of the Guard in Copenhagen?

The Changing of the Guard takes place daily at 12:00 PM at Amalienborg Palace. The guards march from Rosenborg Castle at 11:30 AM to arrive at the palace on time.

Is the Royal Copenhagen walk suitable for seniors?

Yes, this is an easy-flat walk with plenty of benches and cafes for breaks. The terrain is mostly paved, though there are some historic cobblestone sections.

Can I enter the palaces mentioned in this self-guided walk?

Yes, parts of Christiansborg Palace and the Amalienborg Museum are open to the public for a fee. However, the private royal residences at Amalienborg are closed to visitors.

Is this walking route in Copenhagen family-friendly?

Absolutely. Children often enjoy seeing the Royal Life Guards with their tall bearskin hats and exploring the large open squares like Kongens Nytorv.

Where does the Royal Copenhagen walk start and end?

The walk starts at Christiansborg Palace on the island of Slotsholmen and ends at Amalienborg Palace near the waterfront. Both are close to metro stations.

Are there public toilets along this walking route?

Yes, public toilets are located at Christiansborg Palace, near the Royal Theatre at Kongens Nytorv, and in several department stores like Magasin du Nord.

Is it worth visiting the Marble Church?

Yes, Frederik's Church (the Marble Church) is free to enter and features a stunning dome and interior. It is one of the most iconic pieces of architecture in Denmark.

What should I wear for a walking tour in Copenhagen?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the cobblestones. Copenhagen weather can be unpredictable, so bringing a light waterproof layer is recommended.

Can I see the Danish Parliament during this walk?

Yes, the Danish Parliament (Folketinget) is located inside Christiansborg Palace. You can view the exterior from the courtyard or join a public tour of the interior separately.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the regal heart of the Danish capital with this self-guided walk through Copenhagen's Indre By. This walking route invites you to explore the evolution of power, from the medieval foundations of the city to the living residence of the world's oldest monarchy. Your journey begins at Slotsholmen, the 'Island of Power,' where the massive Christiansborg Palace stands as a testament to Danish resilience, having been rebuilt three times over the centuries. As you wander, you will encounter the architectural legacy of King Christian IV, the 'Builder King,' whose vision shaped the city's skyline with copper-clad spires and Dutch Renaissance facades. The route takes you past the iconic Old Stock Exchange, where dragons twist their tails toward the sky, and along the historic canal-side Church of Holmen. Moving toward the grand square of Kongens Nytorv, you will experience the transition from fortress-city to a cosmopolitan European capital. The walk culminates in the Frederiksstaden district, an 18th-century masterpiece of urban planning. Here, the massive copper dome of the Marble Church dominates the horizon, leading you to the elegant octagonal courtyard of Amalienborg Palace. This neighborhood stroll is more than just a history lesson; it is a chance to see how the Danish people and their royals interact in a city where tradition and modern democracy live side-by-side. Whether you are a fan of intricate architecture, royal scandals, or simply want to discover the most iconic landmarks of the city at your own pace, this independent exploration offers a deep dive into the soul of Copenhagen. This royal-themed route provides the flexibility to stop for a coffee in a historic square or spend extra time photographing the Royal Life Guards without being tied to a rigid schedule.

Highlights

Explore Christiansborg Palace, the only building in the world housing all three branches of government

Admire the legendary Dragon Spire of Børsen, the historic 17th-century Stock Exchange

Visit the Church of Holmen, a stunning example of Dutch Renaissance architecture

Walk across Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen's largest and most elegant square

See the massive copper dome of Frederik's Church, inspired by St. Peter's Basilica

Witness the Royal Life Guards at Amalienborg Palace, the Queen's winter residence

Tour Stops (6)

Christiansborg Palace

Welcome to Slotsholmen, the island where Copenhagen was founded. Standing before you is Christiansborg Palace, a unique site that houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister's Office. It is the only building in the world to host all three branches of government. The current neo-baroque palace was completed in 1928, but the site has been home to castles since 1167. Look closely at the granite facade; it was constructed using stones gathered from hundreds of different parishes across Denmark. While the royals no longer live here full-time, they still use the Royal Reception Rooms for gala dinners and official ceremonies. If you have time, the palace tower offers one of the highest viewpoints in the city.

Church of Holmen

Just a short stroll from the palace is the Church of Holmen. Originally built as an anchor forge in 1563, King Christian IV converted it into a naval church in the early 1600s. It is famous for being the site of the royal wedding between Queen Margrethe II and Prince Henrik in 1967. The interior is a masterpiece of Renaissance woodcarving, though its humble brick exterior reflects its industrial origins. The church also serves as a mausoleum for Danish naval heroes, most notably Niels Juel and Tordenskjold. The canal-side location makes it one of the most photographed religious sites in the city, perfectly blending maritime history with royal tradition.

Børsen

Across the water stands Børsen, the 17th-century Old Stock Exchange. This is one of the oldest buildings in Copenhagen and a prime example of the Dutch Renaissance style. Its most striking feature is the Dragon Spire, which consists of four dragons with their tails intertwined, reaching a height of 56 meters. Legend says the dragons protect the building from fire and enemies. Interestingly, the building was used as a marketplace for luxury goods long before it became a financial hub. Though it recently suffered damage in a fire, its historic significance as a symbol of Copenhagen's commercial power remains a vital part of the city's architectural identity.

Kongens Nytorv

Welcome to the 'King's New Square,' the largest and most prestigious square in Copenhagen. Established in 1670 by King Christian V, it was designed to move the city's center away from the old medieval quarters toward the new, grander districts. In the center stands an equestrian statue of Christian V, the oldest of its kind in the city. Surrounding you are some of the capital's most important institutions: the Royal Danish Theatre, the Charlottenborg Palace (now an art gallery), and the iconic Hotel d'Angleterre. This square serves as the gateway to Nyhavn and the luxury shopping street Strøget, acting as the beating heart of Copenhagen's social and cultural life.

Frederik's Church

Commonly known as the Marble Church, this massive structure boasts the largest church dome in Scandinavia. The foundation stone was laid in 1749, but due to budget cuts and the death of the architect, the building stood as an unfinished ruin for over 100 years. It was finally completed in 1894. The dome is inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and is surrounded by statues of great theologians and historical figures from Danish church history. The interior is just as breathtaking as the exterior, with a height that creates a sense of immense space and light. It serves as the focal point of the Frederiksstaden district, perfectly aligned with the palace and the opera house.

Amalienborg Palace

Your royal journey concludes here at Amalienborg, the winter residence of the Danish Royal Family. The palace consists of four identical rococo buildings arranged around an octagonal courtyard. In the center stands the equestrian statue of King Frederik V, the founder of this district. This isn't just a museum; it is a living palace. When the Royal Standard flag is flying, it means the Monarch is in residence. Every day at noon, the Royal Life Guards perform the Changing of the Guard, marching from their barracks through the city to this square. It is a rare opportunity to see royal ceremony up close in a public space, symbolizing the openness of the Danish monarchy.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk typically takes 90 to 120 minutes depending on your pace. The distance is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) through the flat city center.