Copenhagen: Guided Culinary Walking Tour with Food Tastings

Getting a taste of Copenhagen’s vibrant food scene through a guided walking tour offers a perfect blend of local culture, history, and, of course, delicious bites. This 4-hour culinary adventure by CphFoodTours has earned a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 from hundreds of satisfied visitors, thanks to its well-curated stops, expert guides, and generous tastings. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s authentic flavors while learning about Danish traditions and modern gastronomy.

One of the standout features of this tour is its behind-the-scenes access to places like Arla Unika—a cheese producer developed with Michelin-starred chefs—and Café & Ølhalle 1892, Denmark’s oldest preserved workers’ restaurant. Plus, the tour hits a great balance between structured tastings and enough flexibility to enjoy each bite in a relaxed manner.

A potential downside? With so much delicious food packed into just four hours, you might find yourself quite full—so it’s wise not to eat a big breakfast beforehand! This tour suits food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone keen to explore Copenhagen’s culinary heartbeat, all while making the most of a manageable walking pace and local insights.

Key Points

• Authentic Danish Cuisine: Savor iconic smørrebrød, gourmet cheeses, and organic hot dogs.
• Insider Access: Experience behind-the-scenes visits to unique establishments like Arla Unika.
• Variety of Tastes: From rich cheeses to sweet treats, there’s food for every palate.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, personable guides enrich the experience with local stories and history.
• Generous Portions: Expect plentiful tastings that sometimes feel more like a meal.
• Great Value: At $141, the tour offers a comprehensive culinary experience with multiple stops and insights.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off just outside the Italian restaurant Un Mercato, conveniently located near Nørreport Station—Copenhagen’s bustling transport hub. Meeting here makes it easy for travelers to join without extra travel plans. We loved how close it is to the city’s central area, setting a great tone for a day of discovery.

From the outset, the guide—often someone like Katrine or Simon, who reviews praise for their friendliness and expertise—creates a welcoming atmosphere. They introduce the tour’s flow, emphasizing the variety of foods, historical tidbits, and insider access to come.

Cheese and Market Exploration

The first stop involves a cheese tasting at Arla Unika, an exclusive producer working with Michelin-starred chefs. Reviewers highlight that these cheeses are only available on this tour, making it a real highlight. It’s a perfect way to start with something rich, creamy, and uniquely Danish.

Next, a visit to a vibrant food market (likely the Torvehallerne) offers a glimpse into local produce and artisanal vendors. The 20-minute stop allows us to mingle with vendors and see Danish ingredients in their natural environment. The guide shares insights about Danish dairy and cheese traditions, adding depth to the tastings.

Danish Pastry and Smørrebrød

A classic Danish pastry at Riviera Bakery follows—flaky, warm, and freshly baked. It’s the kind of treat you’ll want to savor slowly. The tour then moves to Aamanns Deli or Café & Ølhalle 1892 for a gourmet take on smørrebrød, Denmark’s beloved open-faced sandwich. Reviewers love the high-quality ingredients, noting that these versions elevate the traditional dish into a lunch-level experience.

One guest mentioned, “Enjoyed all of the different variety of food we tasted / tried,” emphasizing how each stop offers something memorable. The guide’s stories about the history of smørrebrød and its role in Danish culture add value beyond just eating.

Beer, Hot Dogs, and Local Snacks

Next, a lively stop at SKAAL, a local craft beer bar, offers a toast with Danish beer or apple wine. The atmosphere here is upbeat, making it a fun social moment. Many reviewers appreciated the pairing of food and drinks, with one noting, “The hot dog stand (DØP) is the city’s most beloved organic hot dog stand, where you can choose pork, beef, or vegetarian options served from a repurposed oak barrel near the Round Tower.”

The hot dogs are more than just street food—they’re a gourmet experience with organic ingredients, and the creative serving methods impress.

Sweets, Licorice, and Royal Candy

The tour’s sweet stops are often highlighted as the most indulgent parts. Lakrids A by Johan Bülow serves licorice coated in chocolate—famous enough to be served in Emirates Business Class—adding a touch of luxury. Another treat at Sømods Bolcher, which supplies the Royal Court, is handmade rock candy dating back to 1891. Reviewers note the high quality and craftsmanship, making this a genuine taste of Danish confectionery heritage.

The finale at Summerbird, Denmark’s most exclusive organic chocolatier, features a flødebolle—a marshmallow treat coated in rich chocolate. Guests rave about ending on such a sweet, satisfying note.

Final Sightseeing and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a stroll past Copenhagen’s Round Tower, giving you a chance to admire the iconic structure while digesting your bounty of flavors. The last 30-minute segment offers an overview of the city’s sights, tying the culinary experience back to Copenhagen’s historic core.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

From reviews, we see that guides like Gita, Cassandra, and Miguel consistently earn praise for their knowledge and personable approach. Many mention that guides shared historical facts alongside food stories, enriching the experience. One reviewer said, “Miguel was a lovely and insightful guide to both food and some history,” highlighting how the tour isn’t just about eating but understanding the culture.

The generous portions—often described as more than tasters—mean you’ll likely feel full by the end. Some reviewers mention that they didn’t need to eat breakfast beforehand, which speaks to the value packed into these food stops.

Practical Details and Value

At $141 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Danish cuisine, expertly curated to include both street favorites and gourmet offerings. The inclusion of 8 tastings and a drink makes it a good value for those wanting a full experience in a manageable timeframe.

The duration of 4 hours is paced well, with enough walking to work up an appetite but not so much that it becomes tiring. The group size tends to be small to medium, ensuring personalized attention and lively conversation.

It’s worth noting that this tour operates rain or shine—so dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes. Since it’s not wheelchair accessible, travelers with mobility issues might want to consider that.

This food adventure is ideal for culinary enthusiasts, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore Copenhagen’s authentic flavors. It’s also perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with tasting, as the stops blend cultural insights with delicious bites.

If you enjoy local cheeses, gourmet smørrebrød, and sweet Danish confections—and you appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable hosts—this tour often exceeds expectations. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and expertise, making each stop feel personal and informative.

However, if you’re looking for a very leisurely experience or have specific dietary restrictions, it’s best to communicate those in advance. While the tour offers a variety of options, some stops feature rich, traditional foods that may not suit all diets.

The Copenhagen Guided Culinary Walking Tour offers a delightful, well-balanced taste of Danish cuisine, history, and local culture. The generous tastings, insider access, and engaging guides make it a standout experience for anyone wanting to dive beneath the surface of Copenhagen’s food scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides valuable insights and mouthwatering memories.

It’s priced reasonably considering the quality and variety of food, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to explore Copenhagen’s historic streets while satisfying your palate. Expect to leave full, enlightened, and perhaps a little more in love with Danish culinary traditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 can join for free; for ages 3 to 12, there is a child’s ticket. Kids might enjoy the tasting stops, especially the sweets, but should be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, it starts and ends at the meeting point outside Un Mercato near Nørreport Station.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, which is enough to enjoy multiple tastings and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
You should communicate any dietary restrictions in advance. The tour offers a variety of foods, but options may be limited depending on your needs.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it operates rain or shine. Dress appropriately for the weather and comfortable walking shoes.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a guide, cheese tasting, Danish pastry, gourmet smørrebrød, organic hot dog, licorice, handmade candy, flødebolle, and a glass of craft beer or Danish apple wine.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility if your travel plans are up in the air.

Is this a small-group tour?
While sizes vary, reviews suggest a small to medium group, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

In summary, if you’re looking for a tasty, culturally rich exploration of Copenhagen, this guided food tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a practical, fun way to get to know the city’s culinary traditions while enjoying the company of knowledgeable guides and local flavors that leave a lasting impression.