What is the best walking tour in Copenhagen for history lovers?

A self-guided walk through Indre By is ideal for history enthusiasts. This route covers the medieval foundations, 18th-century reconstruction after fires, and the 19th-century academic expansion near the university.

Is the Round Tower worth visiting on a self-guided walk?

Yes, the Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is a highlight of the city. It offers a unique spiral ramp instead of stairs and provides panoramic views of the Old Town's copper spires and red-tiled roofs.

Can I see the oldest street in Copenhagen on this route?

Yes, Magstræde is included as the first stop. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, with buildings dating back to the mid-17th century that survived major city fires.

Is Copenhagen Old Town accessible for strollers?

The route is flat and generally stroller-friendly, though the historic cobblestones in Magstræde and Gråbrødretorv can be quite uneven. Most major sidewalks are paved with smoother stones.

What is the best time to explore the Indre By neighborhood?

Morning is the best time to avoid the shopping crowds on the nearby Strøget. Afternoon provides beautiful warm lighting on the colorful facades of Gråbrødretorv and Magstræde.

Are there public restrooms along the walking route?

Yes, there are automated public toilets at Højbro Plads and near Nørreport Station. Many cafes in the Gråbrødretorv area also provide facilities for customers.

Is the Church of Our Lady free to enter?

Entry to the Church of Our Lady (Copenhagen Cathedral) is free for the public. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid wandering during active religious services or concerts.

How do I get to the start of the Old Town walk?

The walk starts at Magstræde. The easiest way to get there is via the Metro to Gammel Strand Station, which is less than a 5-minute walk from the starting point.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the heart of Copenhagen's Indre By for a self-guided walk that blends the city's world-famous 'hygge' with its deep-rooted history. This neighborhood stroll takes you through the winding, cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where medieval layouts meet colorful 18th-century architecture. Unlike a typical guided tour Copenhagen might offer, this independent route allows you to linger in the quiet squares and narrow alleys that define the Danish capital’s unique charm at your own pace. You will begin in the oldest part of the city, where the fire-ravaged history of Copenhagen is still visible in the timber-framed houses. From there, the route winds past bustling squares and royal statues toward the intellectual and spiritual heart of the city. Along the way, you will discover why Copenhagen is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. Key landmarks like the Round Tower and the Church of Our Lady provide a grand backdrop to the more intimate, hidden gems like Gråbrødretorv. Whether you are interested in the academic history of Northern Europe's oldest universities or simply want to find the most 'Instagram-worthy' streets in Denmark, this walking route offers a comprehensive look at the city's evolution. It is a perfect introduction for those seeking a walking tour Copenhagen experience without the constraints of a group schedule. By the end of this self-guided adventure, you will have a deeper understanding of how Copenhagen transitioned from a small fishing village to a sophisticated European capital while maintaining its cozy, small-town soul.

Highlights

Wander through Magstræde, one of the oldest and most colorful streets in the city

See the equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon at Højbro Plads

Relax in the colorful and peaceful square of Gråbrødretorv

Admire the unique 17th-century architecture of the Round Tower

Explore the historic grounds of Copenhagen University

View the masterful sculptures by Bertel Thorvaldsen in the Church of Our Lady

Tour Stops (6)

Magstræde

Welcome to Magstræde, one of the few streets in Copenhagen that still retains its original 18th-century charm. While much of the city was destroyed in the Great Fires of 1728 and 1795, these colorful houses survived. Look at the irregular facades and the ancient cobblestones under your feet. This street represents the 'old' Copenhagen, a time when the city was a maze of timber-framed buildings and narrow passages. Today, it is arguably the most photographed street in the city, perfectly encapsulating the Danish concept of hygge—a sense of coziness and contentment. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant hues of ochre and crimson that have made this spot a favorite for locals and travelers alike.

Højbro Plads

Arriving at Højbro Plads, you are standing in a square that serves as a bridge between the shopping district and the seat of government. The dominant feature here is the equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, the legendary founder of Copenhagen. Depicted as a warrior-cleric, he looks out toward Slotsholmen, where the first fortifications were built. The square was created after the fire of 1795 to serve as a firebreak, which explains its spacious, airy feel compared to the cramped medieval streets you just left. From here, you can see the canals and the spire of Christiansborg Palace, the center of Danish power for over 800 years.

Gråbrødretorv

Tucked away from the main shopping thoroughfares is Gråbrødretorv, or Grey Friars Square. This peaceful plaza is named after a Franciscan friary that stood here until the Reformation. Today, it is famous for its towering plane tree and the brightly painted houses that line its perimeter. During the summer, the square is filled with outdoor seating, making it one of the city's most beloved spots for a coffee or a meal. The architecture here is a classic example of the 'fire houses' built after 1728—sturdy, colorful, and designed to maximize space in a growing city. It is a perfect example of a hidden gem hidden in plain sight.

The Round Tower

Standing before you is Rundetaarn, or the Round Tower, built by King Christian IV in the 17th century. This is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe. What makes it truly unique is its internal structure: instead of stairs, a wide spiral ramp leads to the top. Legend says the Russian Tsar Peter the Great once rode his horse up this ramp. The tower was built to serve the university's astronomers, and it remains a symbol of the Danish Golden Age of science. While the view from the top is spectacular, the building itself is a masterpiece of Dutch Renaissance style, featuring the king's own gilded rebus on the facade.

Copenhagen University

Just a short walk from the tower is the main building of Copenhagen University. Founded in 1479, it is the oldest university in Denmark and the second-oldest in Scandinavia. The current main building was constructed in the 19th century in a style that reflects the importance of academic pursuit. If you look up at the entrance, you'll see a lead eagle, symbolizing the search for knowledge. This area, known as the Latin Quarter, was historically where students and professors spoke Latin to one another. Even today, the surrounding streets are filled with bookstores and quiet cafes, maintaining an intellectual atmosphere that has persisted for centuries.

Church of Our Lady

Our final stop is the Church of Our Lady, the Cathedral of Copenhagen. This neoclassical building may look simple from the outside, but the interior is a sanctuary of art. After the British bombardment in 1807 destroyed the previous church, architect C.F. Hansen designed this serene space. Inside, you will find the world-famous statues of Christ and the twelve apostles, sculpted by the renowned Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen. The figures are known for their calm, human expressions, departing from the dramatic style of earlier eras. It is a place of profound quiet and beauty, marking a fitting end to our journey through the history and culture of the Old Town.

Frequently Asked Questions

This specific route takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. The total walking distance is about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), allowing plenty of time for photos and exploring the stops.