Copenhagen from a Cruise Ship: Best 37 Shore Excursions from Ocean Quay and Langelinie Cruise Port Terminals
Are you exploring Copenhagen, Denmark from a cruise ship?
As a former first-time visitor to this beautiful city, I know exactly how exciting and overwhelming it can be. Let me help you plan your day in Copenhagen with the ultimate guide to shore excursions from Ocean Quay and Langelinie Cruise Port Terminals when visiting Copenhagen from a Cruise Ship.
This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make your cruise ship visit to Copenhagen an unforgettable experience!
From must-see attractions like Rosenborg Castle and Nyhavn to mouthwatering local cuisine and vibrant street life, I’ve got all the tips and tricks to maximize your time in this stunning city based on our recent cruise stop there. Let the adventure begin!
Book the Best Tours in Copenhagen, Denmark
Experience the enchanting blend of history, culture, and Scandinavian charm by booking a captivating tour in Copenhagen. Discover the magic of Copenhagen through guided tours that promise unforgettable memories and a deep connection to Danish history and modern life.
What to do when visiting Copenhagen from a Cruise Ship?
When visiting Copenhagen from a cruise ship, there are plenty of exciting things to do and places to explore! Wander through the old cobblestone streets of Gamle Byen (Old Town) and admire the iconic, colorful buildings.
Marvel at the majestic Rosenborg Castle and Garden or take in the magical sights of The Little Mermaid. Cycle along picturesque canals in Nyhavn or explore the bustling markets of Torvehallerne. For even more adventure, take a ferry trip to explore the nearby islands of Denmark’s South Coast.
🛳️ Book Your Cruise to Copenhagen 🛳️
Best Cruise Ships that Visit Copenhagen
Visitors to Copenhagen can choose from a variety of cruise lines that offer excursions and shoreside experiences. Popular cruise lines include Royal Caribbean, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Cruises, and Princess Cruises. All of these brands provide luxurious amenities and stunning views as you sail to the Danish capital.
Cruise Lines and Ships that Visit Copenhagen
Copenhagen, Denmark, is a destination that attracts ships from various cruise lines.
- Royal Caribbean – Serenade of the Seas
- Holland America Line – Nieuw Statendam
- Norwegian Cruise Line – Dawn, Getaway, Sun, Star
- MSC Cruises – Poesia, Euribia, Preziosa
- Costa Cruises – Firenze
- Celebrity Cruises – Apex, Silhouette
- Carnival Cruise Line – Legend
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Navigator, Voyager, Mariner
- Princess Cruises – Sky Princess, Caribbean Princess, Island Princess, Coral Princess
- Viking Cruises – Venus, Sky, Neptune
Ocean Quay and Langelinie Cruise Port: Where do cruise ships dock in Copenhagen?
The two main cruise ports in Copenhagen are Ocean Quay and Langelinie Cruise Port Terminals.
Ocean Quay, or Oceankaj, is located on Amager Island, just a short distance from the city center, and is the port where the larger cruise ships dock. The port features new and modern facilities with plenty of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
The Langelinie Cruise Port Terminal is located in the heart of Copenhagen, right on the waterfront, and the smaller commercial cruise ships dock here. This terminal is also modern and well-equipped, boasting a variety of amenities and services for travelers. The port offers direct access to many popular tourist attractions such as Nyhavn and Amalienborg Palace.
Nordre Toldbod is a smaller cruise port that is located at the entrance to Copenhagen’s inner harbor. This terminal mainly serves ferries from Sweden and other Baltic cities. The Nordre Toldbod Cruise Port Terminal offers basic amenities, and travelers will need to make their own way into the city center.
37 Things to Do When Visiting Copenhagen, Denmark from a Cruise Ship
Visiting Copenhagen from a cruise ship is an exciting experience that offers many opportunities to explore the city and its surrounding areas. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery, Copenhagen is the perfect place to spend a day or two while on vacation.
Here are 37 things to do when visiting Copenhagen from a cruise ship.
1. Hop On Hop Off Bus
The Hop On Hop Off Bus is an excellent way to explore Copenhagen from a cruise ship. These buses are conveniently located at the cruise terminal, making it easy to start your tour as soon as you arrive. Enjoy sightseeing while traveling in a comfortable and air-conditioned bus, with audio guides available in multiple languages.
👉 Book Your Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
2. Hop On Hop Off Boat
The Hop On Hop Off Boat is a great way to explore the city of Copenhagen from the water. There are two stops along the route: Nyhavn and Gammel Strand, both located within easy walking distance from popular attractions such as Amalienborg Palace, The Little Mermaid statue, and Tivoli Gardens. This is a great way to explore the city in a unique way!
👉 Book Your Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
3. Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens features classic attractions such as roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly shows. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. The gardens are open year-round, making them the perfect way to entertain both adults and kids
👉 Get your Admission Tickets to Tivoli Gardens (skip the line for tickets)
4. Dragon Fisherman’s Village
Dragon Fisherman’s Village is located on the small island of Refshaleøen, which lies just off the coast of Copenhagen. Here, you can find three major attractions: The Dragon Fountain, an old fishing village with its traditional boats and buildings, and a modern art district where street artists have left their mark. Visitors can take a ferry from Nyhavn to the island or take a guided kayak tour.
5. Food & Beverage Scene
The food and beverage scene in Copenhagen is full of variety, and you can find everything from street food vendors to traditional Danish restaurants. From the harbor, visitors can easily find delicious seafood dishes like herring, salmon, mussels, shrimp, and lobster. There are also plenty of cafes, bars, and pubs that offer traditional Danish snacks such as smørrebrød (open sandwiches) and æbleskiver (apple fritters).
👉 Book Your Copenhagen Food and Drink Tour
6. Cathedral of Copenhagen – Church of Our Lady
The Church of Our Lady (Vor Frelsers Kirke) is the iconic and impressive cathedral located in the heart of Copenhagen. It is easy to reach the church from the cruise port on foot or by bike, and it offers stunning views of the city and harbor.
👉 Book Your Tour that includes the Cathedral of Copenhagen
7. City Hall Square
The City Hall Square, or Rådhuspladsen, is the main public square in Copenhagen. Here you can get a glimpse of the city’s history, as it has been used for everything from royal coronations to political protests.
Here you can admire its historic architecture and wander around its charming cobblestone streets lined with cafés and shops. Don’t miss out on stopping by the famous statue of Hans Christian Andersen, located in the middle of the square!
👉 Book Your Tour that includes City Hall Square
8. Christiania – Hippie Haven
Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood in Copenhagen known for its hippie culture and vibrant street art. Visitors can take the city bus towards Christiania, where they can explore an alternative lifestyle, visit art galleries, or enjoy some of the local beer gardens.
👉 Book your tour that includes Christiania
9. Christianshavn
Christianshavn is a beautiful area of Copenhagen located on the banks of the canals. Here, visitors can take in the city’s charming architecture, explore cozy cafes and bars, or take a boat ride along the harbor to get a unique view of some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
👉 Book a private walking tour of Christianshavn
10. Amager Beach Park
Amager Beach Park is one of the most popular spots in Copenhagen for relaxation. Located only a few metro stops away from the cruise port, visitors can enjoy an afternoon lounging on its sandy beaches or take part in outdoor activities such as beach soccer and volleyball. The park also offers a variety of restaurants and bars, so you don’t have to go far to grab something to eat.
11. Nytorv (New Square)
Nytorv, or “New Square” or King’s New Square, is a historic marketplace in Copenhagen. Located near the city center, it’s easy to reach Nytorv from the cruise port by taking bus 5A towards Gammel Strand and getting off at Kongens Nytorv. Here, visitors can explore old buildings such as the Royal Theatre and the Royal Library, as well as admire beautiful sculptures.
👉 Book Your Private Walking Tour including Nytorv
12. Nyhavn – The Iconic Waterway
Nyhavn is an iconic waterfront area in Copenhagen known for its colorful buildings and boats. It’s easy to get there from the cruise port by taking bus 26 towards Skt Annæ Plads and getting off at Nyhavn. Here, visitors can stroll along the canal, admire iconic sights such as old wooden ships, and enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the waterfront.
👉 Book a Walking Tour that includes Nyhavn Canals
13. Copenhagen Bike Tour
No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a bike tour of the city! Here, visitors can rent a bike and explore some of the most iconic sights in Copenhagen, including The Little Mermaid, Tivoli Gardens, and the Royal Palace. This is also a great way to get around quickly and see more of the city in a short space of time.
👉 Book Your Copenhagen Bike Tour
14. Shopping on Stroeget Street
Strøget is one of the best places to go shopping in Copenhagen. Visitors will discover a mix of high-end fashion outlets, charming boutiques, and quaint souvenir shops along this bustling pedestrian street. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, it’s easily accessible from the cruise port. Just a short stroll away, you can wander the cobblestone streets and uncover your favorite stores.
👉 Book a walking tour that goes to Stroeget Street
15. Visit Carlsberg Brewery
Discover one of Copenhagen’s most famous exports – beer! Visitors can take a tour of the Carlsberg Brewery, located in Vesterbro. This brewery has been producing beer for over 150 years and takes visitors on an educational journey of the brewing process. Here, guests can also sample some of their favorite beers and learn more about the history of beer-making in Copenhagen.
16. Gammeltorv (Old Square)
For an authentic taste of Copenhagen, visit Gammeltorv (Old Square). This is one of the oldest parts of the city, with narrow cobbled streets and winding alleys. From the cruise port, take a walk along Amaliegade and follow it until you arrive at the square.
Here, visitors can find traditional Danish cafes, small shops, and galleries that offer a unique insight into Danish culture and history. Enjoy exploring this area of old-world charm, with its charming storefronts and lively atmosphere.
👉 Book a Tour that includes Gammeltorv
17. City Court of Copenhagen
The City Court of Copenhagen is located in the old city center and is a great place to experience the grandeur of Danish architecture. The building dates back to 1671 and is an impressive example of the decorative Baroque style. A visit here promises stunning facades, courtyards, and gardens that are sure to impress!
18. The Well of Caritas
The Well of Caritas is one of the oldest and most interesting parts of Copenhagen. Located near Amaliegade, it’s a short walk from the cruise port. This well has been around since 1639, with an interesting legend behind it; reportedly, those who drink from it will find love! Take some time to explore its history and soak up the atmosphere of this magical spot.
19. Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, located in the center of Copenhagen. From the cruise port, take a walk along Amaliegade and follow it until you arrive at Rosenborg Castle.
These grand castle grounds offer visitors an impressive view and insight into Danish culture and history. It includes four wings with royal apartments, living quarters, beautiful gardens and courtyards, galleries, and a treasury.
👉Book a Private tour to Rosenborg Castle
20. Rosenborg Castle Gardens
For a taste of old-world grandeur, take a stroll around the gardens outside Rosenborg Castle. Located just off Kongens Nytorv Square, these gardens are filled with lush greenery and beautiful sculptures. Visitors can admire the castle’s stunning facade, explore the manicured lawns, and get lost in the many winding paths.
👉 Book a Private tour to Rosenborg Castle
21. Take a Water Taxi
Copenhagen’s canals offer an unforgettable experience for visitors. Taking a water taxi is the perfect way to explore the city from the riverside. Enjoy taking in views of old churches, industrial buildings, and colorful wooden houses as you cruise through the picturesque canals.
22. Christiansborg Palace
Take a trip to Christiansborg Palace, located in the heart of Copenhagen, for a glimpse at Denmark’s rich history and culture. Easily accessible from the cruise port via bus or taxi, this majestic castle is home to the National Museum of Denmark and several other royal treasures.
Enjoy exploring its grand architecture and beautiful gardens as you soak up the history that surrounds you.
👉 Book Private Tour to Christiansborg Castle
23. Amalienborg Royal Palace
Amalienborg Palace is a must-see for any visitor to Copenhagen. Located near the waterfront, it’s conveniently accessible from the cruise port and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Inside this grand palace, visitors can explore its four palaces filled with royal apartments and museums.
Be sure to check out the throne room and marble hall before you leave!
👉 Book a Tour that includes Amalienborg Royal Palace
24. Marble Church
The Marble Church or Frederik’s Church in Copenhagen is a stunning example of baroque architecture. Easily accessible from the cruise port, visitors can admire its large dome and impressive facade while taking in views of the city’s harbor. The church also has an interior worth exploring, with intricate statues, marble pillars, and a breathtaking ceiling.
👉 Book Your Walking Tour that includes the Marble Church
25. New Carlsberg Glyptoteque
The New Carlsberg Glyptoteque is a must-see for art lovers visiting Copenhagen. You can get there easily from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi to this stunning museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient sculptures and artifacts. Be sure to take some time to explore its extensive galleries and archives!
26. The National Museum
The National Museum in Copenhagen is a great spot for those interested in history and art. Visitors can easily get there from the cruise port by taking a bus or a taxi ride. Inside, they’ll find an extensive collection of artifacts and artwork spanning centuries of Danish culture. Don’t miss out on seeing the museum’s impressive exhibition halls.
👉 Included with the Copenhagen Card HOP
27. Old Stock Exchange
The Old Stock Exchange in Copenhagen is a great spot to explore for those interested in the city’s history. It’s easily accessible from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi ride. Inside, visitors can admire its grand 19th-century facade and learn more about the building’s past as an old trading hall.
👉 Book your Tour that includes the Old Stock Exchange
28. Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid is one of the most iconic symbols of Copenhagen and can be easily accessed from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi. The magical statue of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved character is an often-visited spot for tourists, who come to admire its beauty and take in the wonderful views of the city’s harbor. Many walking tours go by the Little Mermaid as well.
👉 Book your Hygge Cheese Picnic and Little Mermaid Tour
29. Holmens Church
Holmens Church in Copenhagen is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and can be easily reached from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi. Admire its ornate facade and spend some time strolling around its peaceful gardens for a truly memorable experience.
30. Gammel Stand
Gammel Strand in Copenhagen is a popular spot for visitors, as it boasts one of the city’s oldest and most well-preserved squares. It’s easily reachable from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi ride. Don’t miss out on exploring its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings!
👉 Book your tours that include Gammel Stand
31. Danish Parliament
The Danish Parliament in Copenhagen is a sight to behold and can be accessed from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi ride. Visitors can admire its impressive Neoclassical architecture and learn more about Denmark’s history and political system.
32. Oresund Bridge
The Oresund Bridge is a marvel of modern engineering and connects Denmark with Sweden. It can be easily accessed from the cruise port by taking a bus or taxi ride. Don’t miss out on admiring this stunning piece of infrastructure, which offers incredible views over both countries!
👉 Book your tour that crosses the Oresund Bridge from Denmark to Sweden
33. Royal Danish Naval Museum
For those interested in maritime history, the Royal Danish Naval Museum is a must-visit. Located near the cruise port, visitors can easily take a bus or taxi to get there. Explore its vast collection of artifacts and learn more about Denmark’s past and present naval history!
34. Frederiksborg Castle
Located just north of Copenhagen, Frederiksborg Castle is a must-visit for anyone interested in Danish history. Don’t miss out on exploring its grand halls and immersing yourself in its historic atmosphere!
👉 Book Your Private Tour to Kronborg and Frederiksberg Castles
35. Fredensborg Palace
Fredensborg Palace is an impressive royal residence in Copenhagen. It’s a great spot to learn more about Danish royalty and culture, as well as admire its beautiful gardens and architecture!
👉 Book Your Tour including the Fredensborg Palace
36. Kronborg Castle
Kronborg Castle, also known as Elsinore in Hamlet or Hamlet Castle by some, is a stunning castle located on the coast of Denmark. Visitors can easily enjoy its fantastic views over the Oresund Strait. It’s one of the most important castles in all of Scandinavia, and visitors won’t want to miss out on exploring its rich history and culture!
👉 Book Your Private Tour to Kronborg and Frederiksberg Castles
37. Exploring the Canals of Copenhagen
The canals of Copenhagen are outstanding for taking a relaxing stroll or just admiring the city from afar. From the cruise port, visitors can take a bus or taxi ride to get to them and enjoy their picturesque scenery. Don’t miss out on exploring the canals and enjoying some of Copenhagen’s best views!
Cruise Ship Shore Excursions
Most ships offer shore excursions that you can book on board. Click on the cruise line below to see the excursions currently offered.
- Royal Caribbean
- Holland America Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
- Costa Cruises
- Celebrity Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Viking Cruises
🛳️ Book Your Cruise to Copenhagen 🛳️
What is Copenhagen known for?
Copenhagen is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture. It’s the capital of Denmark and a bustling metropolis with sights such as the iconic Little Mermaid statue, Tivoli Gardens, the colorful Nyhavn district, Amalienborg Palace, and Rosenborg Castle.
Is Copenhagen worth visiting?
Copenhagen also has plenty of museums, theaters, and art galleries to explore, as well as a vibrant nightlife. No matter what you’re looking for, Copenhagen has something to offer everyone!
Absolutely! Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the incredible culture of Scandinavia. From its picturesque canals and buildings to its bustling nightlife, Copenhagen offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history and culture or just want to relax and enjoy some great food, you won’t regret visiting this vibrant city. If you can, be sure to take a cruise and explore the sights from the water – there’s nothing quite like it!
Can I walk to the city center from the cruise port?
Unfortunately, it is not recommended to walk from the cruise port to the city center. The two ports are located in an industrial area of Copenhagen and are quite far away from the city’s main attractions. If you do choose to walk, make sure you have a map and know where exactly you’re going.
For those who want to visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, the closest port is Nyhavn, which is located close to the statue. From here, you can walk to other city attractions or take a water taxi to get around Copenhagen quickly and easily.
🛳️ Book Your Cruise to Copenhagen 🛳️
How far is the port from the beach?
The port is approximately 6 miles away from the closest beach, Øresund Beach. However, it can be reached easily with public transportation. To get to the beach, you should take a train from Central Station to either Østerport or Klampenborg stations.
From here, you can either catch a bus that will take you directly to the beach or take a short walk and enjoy the scenery along the way. Whichever option you choose, it should only take around 30 minutes to get there.
Transportation in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is well-connected with public transportation, making it easy and convenient to explore the city. The main modes of transportation are buses, trains, and metros, which are all interconnected and can be used with a single ticket. There are also bike-sharing services available throughout the city if you’re looking for an eco-friendly mode of transport.
Additionally, there are ferries and water buses that can take you along Copenhagen’s picturesque canals. Taxis are also available as another option for getting around the city, but ridesharing services such as Uber are not available in Copenhagen.
Hop on Hop Off buses were in the port as soon as we were allowed off and started the tour from Ocean Quay port, but then provided shuttles back from stop 12.
Taxies were also available outside Ocean Quay when we got off the ship.
Is Uber available in Copenhagen?
No, Taxis are, but no ridesharing companies are available.
👉 Get a Copenhagen Card Hop including 80 attractions and a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Where to stay in Copenhagen before or after the cruise?
Copenhagen, a city brimming with charm and convenience for cruise departures, beckons with its diverse neighborhoods, each exuding its own distinctive vibe. Curious about the best areas to stay in this dynamic city? Dive into this blog post Where to Stay in Copenhagen to discover the perfect spot that aligns with your travel style and itinerary!
The following three hotels are highly recommended for their quality and location:
These hotels offer modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and 24-hour room service. They are also conveniently located in the heart of Copenhagen, close to main attractions such as Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Copenhagen from a Cruise Ship
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about cruising to this stunning city from a cruise ship.
The currency in Copenhagen is the Danish Krone, and most places accept Euros. Some also accept American Dollars, Norwegian, and Swedish Kroner, but at a lower exchange rate.
Yes, it is customary to tip in Copenhagen. Most restaurants will include a service charge on the bill (usually around 10-15%), but it is polite to leave an additional 5-10% for good service. Taxi drivers do not expect tips; however, small gratuities can be given at your discretion.
Yes, you can drink tap water in Copenhagen. The city’s tap water is of high quality and regularly tested to ensure safety. Tap water has a pleasant taste and is very refreshing when served cold from the refrigerator. In addition, it is much more environmentally friendly than buying bottled water due to its lower carbon footprint.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Copenhagen depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. The most popular months are June, July, and August due to the long days and warm weather. December is also a popular time of year for its festive atmosphere, with Christmas markets open throughout the city.
Copenhagen is famous for a range of traditional Danish dishes, such as smørrebrød (an open-faced sandwich made with rye bread, pickled herring, and other toppings), frikadeller (meatballs), and flæskesteg (roast pork). Denmark is also known for its pastries, particularly wienerbrød and kanelsnegle (cinnamon buns).
Most citizens of European countries or the USA do not need a visa to enter Denmark. However, citizens from non-EU countries may require a valid passport and a valid visa in order to enter the country. For more information on visas, contact your nearest Danish embassy or consulate.
How Close to the Cruise Port
The distance between Copenhagen Airport and the cruise ship terminal is approximately 18 km (11.2 miles). It takes around 30 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic. The public transport journey is slightly longer and is best done via train, taking around 45 minutes or more, depending on connections.
Taxis are available from outside the airport to take you directly to the cruise ship terminal.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to view the Little Mermaid statue from the cruise ship. The statue is located at Langelinie Promenade and can be viewed during a shore excursion or on your own when you arrive in port. It’s definitely worth seeing!
🛳️ Book Your Cruise to Copenhagen 🛳️
The Wrap-Up: Copenhagen from a Cruise Ship
In conclusion, visiting Copenhagen, Denmark, from a cruise ship is an unforgettable experience that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and Scandinavian charm. From the picturesque canals to the iconic Nyhavn waterfront, there are endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Whether you choose to stroll through the beautiful Tivoli Gardens, visit the fascinating Amalienborg Palace, or indulge in some delicious Danish pastries at a local café, Copenhagen has something for everyone.
So next time you find yourself on a cruise ship heading towards Northern Europe, don’t miss the chance to disembark in Copenhagen and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your shore excursion today and get ready to discover all that this captivating city has to offer!
