Why Copenhagen is Best Seen from the Water
Copenhagen is a city built around water, and exploring it by boat reveals hidden sides of its history, charm, and local life. Whether you’re gliding through the canals of Christianshavn or paddling in a peaceful lake outside the city, a water-based adventure is a must.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, a day trip across the Øresund Strait to the Swedish island of Hven is the perfect bonus to your Copenhagen itinerary.
1. Classic Canal Tours: A Must for First-Timers
Most visitors start their aquatic journey with a guided canal cruise from Nyhavn or Ved Stranden. These one-hour tours give you a stunning overview of the city’s key landmarks:
- The Little Mermaid
- Amalienborg Palace
- The Royal Opera House
- Christianshavn’s charming canals
- Black Diamond Royal Library
✨ Local Tip: Try to sit near the front or sides of the boat for the best photo angles, especially when entering the harbor.
💰 Price: Approx. €10–€15
🕒 Duration: 1 hour
🎧 Languages: Multilingual audio guides or live guides in English
2. Explore Christianshavn by Boat
If you only do one boat tour, make it the one that includes Christianshavn. This picturesque area feels like a small town tucked inside the city. Locals love it for its character, canals, and laid-back vibes.
🚤 From the water, you’ll pass houseboats, cozy bars, hidden courtyards, and old merchant houses with colorful façades.
📍 Only one metro stop from the city center, but feels like a world away.
3. GoBoat: Captain Your Own Tour
For a relaxed and private experience, rent a GoBoat—a small, solar-powered boat that you can steer yourself around the harbor.
🥪 Pack a picnic, bring some drinks, and cruise at your own pace.
👨👩👧👦 Ideal for: Families, couples, or small groups
💰 From €60/hour (fits up to 8 people)
📍 Departure: Islands Brygge
4. Kayaking and Canoeing Outside the City
Looking for something off the beaten path? Head to Mølleå and Bagsværd Sø, just outside of Copenhagen.
🚆 Take the S-train to Sorgenfri Station, then walk or bike to the lake. Kayak and canoe rentals are available along the waterway.
🌿 The scenery here is serene, natural, and far less crowded than the city canals. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the bustle and connect with nature.
5. Bonus: A Day Trip to Hven, Sweden (From Nyhavn)
Did you know you can take a ferry from Copenhagen to a Swedish island in under two hours?
🛳️ The 1.5-hour ferry from Nyhavn to Hven is a hidden gem. This tiny island is known for:
- Biking around the coast
- Astronomer Tycho Brahe’s observatory
- Stunning views of both Sweden and Denmark
Bring your passport, rent a bike when you arrive, and explore the quiet Swedish countryside for a perfect day trip.
Tips from Locals (and a Bit of Etiquette)
Copenhageners love their city—but tourists often make a few missteps. Here’s how to blend in and stay respectful:
- 💬 English is widely spoken, but don’t assume everyone understands your native language—speak clearly and politely.
- 👥 Large tour groups can be overwhelming. If you’re in one, be mindful of local traffic, bike lanes, and public spaces.
- ⚠️ Follow boat safety rules, especially on self-driven rentals. Don’t block harbor traffic, and avoid reckless behavior.
- ♻️ Respect the waterways—don’t litter, and be aware of noise pollution.
Conclusion: The City of Spires and Canals
From the vibrant canals of Christianshavn to peaceful paddles outside the city, and even a ferry ride to Sweden, Copenhagen offers one of the most diverse water experiences in Europe. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, make time for a boat tour—you’ll see why locals and travelers alike fall in love with Copenhagen from the water.
