Copenhagen Bike Tour – Self-Guided or With a Guided Tour? Tips & Reviews!

Thinking of doing a cycling tour in Copenhagen, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place!

Biking in Copenhagen couldn’t be easier. This is a super bike-friendly city, with miles upon miles of cycle lanes, meaning that a large selection of attractions in Copenhagen are well connected by pedal power.

If you’re looking for the best way to see the city, then you should definitely embark on a bike tour in Copenhagen.

In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about doing a Copenhagen bike tour, both a self-guided independent one or by joining a guided bike tour.

I have outlined the exact cycling route I followed on my last Copenhagen trip, complete with map and details of each stop, as well as overviews for the best guided cycling tours in Copenhagen.

That way you can choose whether to go cycling in Copenhagen independently, or to join a guided tour. Whatever option you choose, doing a bike tour in Copenhagen will be great fun!

So what are you waiting for, let’s dive in and discover the best cycling tours in Copenhagen!

Why do a bike tour in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is an extremely bike-friendly city. According to VisitCopenhagen.com, 44% of all trips to work or school in the Danish capital are made by bicycle.

Copenhagen rent a bike

If you’re joining an organised bike tour in Copenhagen, they will provide a bike for you to use. If you choose to do your own self-guided tour, you will have to rent a bike.

There are plenty of bike rentals in Copenhagen, it’s a very bike friendly city after all! You can find one option for bike rental here. 

Click here to rent your bike and explore Copenhagen independently!

Map of my Copenhagen self-guided bike tour

For those who want to do their own independent bike tour of Copenhagen, in this article I have outlined the exact route and stops that I followed on my last Copenhagen trip.

I have embedded a map below, so that you can see exactly where to go and how long it will take. I have designed an efficient bike route, so that you don’t find yourself cycling back and forth around the city.

This Copenhagen self-guided bike itinerary covers all the main attractions in the city, meaning you won’t miss a thing! As you can see from the embedded map below, the route only takes 40 minute or so to cycle.

That gives you plenty of time throughout the day to take your time with each stop, visiting the beauties of Copenhagen and taking coffee and food breaks along the way.

Copenhagen self-guided bike tour details

I always love a good map, but where exactly will you be going? I included a bit more information on each stop, and why you should be adding them to your Copenhagen itinerary.

Start in Tivoli – With its historic wooden roller coaster among many other attractions, this amusement park is world famous. It even inspired Walt Disney to create his own amusement park; Disneyworld.

Christiansborg Palace – Just a short cycle up the road is this Christiansborg Palace, which is the seat of the Danish parliament. It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in the entire city.

Borsen – Then it’s on to Borsen on your bike tour of Copenhagen. This 17th-century former stock exchange at the center of the city is also an important seat of government in the city.

Old Town (Indre By) – This colourful area is the most historic part of the city. Here’s where you’ll find many of Copenhagen’s sights, along with streets lined with charming old buildings.

There will be lots of pedestrians around, so make sure to be careful with your bike.

Nyhavn – An iconic part of Copenhagen. The 17th-century waterfront is renowned for its colourful townhouses that today play host to bars, cafes and restaurants.

Cycling along the canal, taking in the beautiful coloured houses and canal boats, is a unique experience that should feature on everyone’s Europe bucket list.

Here you’ll find also plenty of bars and restaurants with outdoors seating. You can take a break from the cycling, take a seat and enjoy some local Danish delicacies while enjoying the view.

Rosenborg Castle – Home to the Crown Jewels of the Danish Royal Family, Rosenborg Castle was built in the 17th century by King Christian IV.

It’s also surrounded by a beautiful park, so you can easily spend some time cycling around it either before or after visiting the castle.

Frederik’s Church – Known as the Marble Church, this impressive Baroque structure boasts the largest church dome in Northern Europe (you can get amazing views from up there, too!).

Amalienborg – The home of the Danish Royal Family, but it’s (partly) open to the public. You can visit and learn more about the history of the Danish Royal Family here.

Gefion Fountain – This landmark fountain, situated in Langelinie Park, is a really nice place to stop off for a spot of people watching.

Kastellet – Translating to “the Citadel”, this 17th-century fortress is a well-preserved star-shaped structure that still plays home to the Danish military to this day. Otherwise, it’s a tranquil place to hang out.

Little Mermaid – Nearby is arguably the most iconic sight in the whole city. You’ll find the statue of the Little Mermaid in human form, sitting on a rock gazing out to sea. 

Freetown Christiania – Next on your self-guided bike tour of Copenhagen, you can simply loop back to the boho district of Freetown Christiania and explore at your leisure.

The Freetown of Christiania is a unique neighbourhood, with an interesting history and lots of areas to explore. It’s a good place to end your bike tour, and spend some time relaxing.

Best Copenhagen bike tours – overviews & reviews

But if you don’t want to cycle by yourself, or you want more information about the city as you go, never fear: there are plenty of tours you can join. Here are a few of the best.

3-hour City Highlights Bike Tour

Take to the city streets on two wheels on this 3-hour guided bike tour. Your professional guide will meet you at 10 a.m. at Rosenborg Castle, before heading on to a long list of top sights in Copenhagen.

These include the Little Mermaid statue, Nyhavn, Our Saviour’s Church, and Christiansborg Palace.

Click here to book your 3-hour Copenhagen City Highlights Bike Tour!

3-Hour Guided Bike Tour in the Historical City

This well reviewed Copenhagen bike tour is a good option for you if you want to join only a small group tour. Book yourself a place, and you’ll be whizzing around the streets before you know it.

Your knowledgeable guide will take you around the city’s beautiful canals, taking in historical sites along the way, telling the tale of the history as you go.

Check out prices and availability for a 3-hour guided bike tour in Copenhagen historical city!

Copenhagen 1.5-hour City Highlights Bike Tour

If a 3-hour tour seems like too much, or if you just don’t have the time, then this one-and-a-half hour bike tour of Copenhagen is a good option. It provides a great introduction to the city for first time visitors.

The tour is fun, and the guide is friendly, and you’ll be treated to a fantastic array of knowledge at the many sights you stop off at during the course of the tour.

Some of the sights on this tour include Rosenborg Castle, St Alban’s Church, and the very delicious Torvehallerne food market (make sure you arrive hungry!).

Click here to see prices and availability for your Copenhagen 1.5 hour city highlights bike tour!

3-Hour Culinary Bike Tour

Speaking of hunger, if you’re looking for a Copenhagen cycling tour with a difference, then how about this one: a truly scrumptious combination of bicycles and food.

On this tour, you’ll be able to tuck into a mouthwatering array of delicious foods from Copenhagen’s most interesting neighbourhoods.

The tour includes the chance to sample dishes from six different venues, plus you’ll get to learn all about Danish gastronomy and Copenhagen’s food history as you go.

You’ll get to try Danish fish-meatballs, open sandwiches, and a particularly tasty dessert called Flodebolle; Danish pastries and locally brewed beer also feature on this culinary journey.

Check out prices and availability for your 3-hour culinary bike tour in Copenhagen!

Private City E-Bike History & Nature Tour

Just you and a guide will be heading off on this e-bike tour of Copenhagen – a great option for those who don’t want to pedal so much.

The city is full of history, so having a one-on-one, personal tour allows you to learn more and get a deeper insight into the local stories and culture of the city.

Not only that, but on this tour you’ll get to head out into some more natural green surroundings of Copenhagen, including Bispebjerg and Utterslev Mose.

The e-bike allows you to go further than a regular pedal bike, without as much physical effort.

Click here to book your private city e-bike tour in Copenhagen!

Should you join a bike tour or do it independently?

It ultimately depends on your travel style and preference, there isn’t a right or wrong way to do it. Since you’re going around a city with plenty of cycling lanes, you can easily do it alone.

It’s not like going mountain biking on a dangerous route where you could get lost and need a guide. That said, having a local guide is always an added plus.

If you join a tour you will have a local guide taking you to all the best spots in Copenhagen, both the famous and hidden ones, and telling you about their history as you go.

It will obviously be less independent, but you will learn more about Copenhagen, plus if you’re a solo travellers it’s a great way to meet other people.

Regardless of whether you choose to do it alone or join a tour, in this article I have listed everything you need to know for both. From the self-guided route to follow, to the best tours you can join, you have all the info!

Where to stay in Copenhagen for your bike tour

Since you’ll have a bike and will be moving easily around the city, it doesn’t really matter where you stay in Copenhagen. That said, I always recommend staying central, so you’re close to all the attractions.

I have listed below some cool accommodation options for every budget.

Budget – Kanalhuset: This place offers good value for money in a waterside location. Rooms at this fashionable hotel are spacious, though simple, and boast large beds and period features. 

Click here to book your stay at Kanahuset!

Mid-range – 25hours Hotel Indre By: This hotel is situated super close to a number of top sights. Plus, the rooms here are decorated with a mix of eclectic decor, with a cool, quirky vibe throughout the property. 

Check out prices and availability at 25hours Hotel Indre By!

Luxury – Hotel Sanders: If you want to treat yourself, this elegant hotel is the place to do so. Boasting a rooftop garden, rooms here are decked out with designer furnishings and chic design features.

Don’t miss out, book your stay at Hotel Sanders here!

What to pack for cycling in Copenhagen

Besides the usual travel essentials, there aren’t many specific items you need for a cycling tour in Copenhagen. After all, it’s a big city, and you can easily buy anything that you forget at home.

That said, here are some things I highly recommend packing.

Camera – Copenhagen is a beautiful city, make sure you have a way to capture its beauty!

Comfortable shoes – Especially if you’re cycling, you’ll need a pair of comfortable shoes to get around the city.

Refillable water bottle – Tap water is good to drink in Copenhagen, so bring your own bottle to save money and plastic!

Umbrella – The weather in Copenhagen can be quite variable, so don’t forget to bring an umbrella with you!

Rain jacket – The same goes for a light rain coat. Better safe than sorry!

Final thoughts on the best bicycle tour Copenhagen

There you have it, the ultimate Copenhagen bike tour guide! Have you been to Copenhagen before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Whether you choose to do it independently, or whether you choose to join a guided bike tour, in this article I have outlined everything you need to know about a cycling tour in Copenhagen.

If you choose to do it independently, I have included a map and stops explanation for the exact cycling route I followed on my last trip to Copenhagen. 

If cycling alone isn’t your thing, I have included the best and most highly rated Copenhagen bike tours that you can find online.

Whether you choose to of a self-guided bike tour or you choose to join a tour, I hope you found this Copenhagen bike tour guide useful! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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