History & Highlights

The Little Mermaid & Port of Copenhagen Free Tour

Denmark's most famous statue and the harbor that built an empire

9.4/10(511) · Bookable via Civitatis

Quick answer

Yes, it is free: no ticket, you tip the guide at the end. The Little Mermaid & Port of Copenhagen Free Tour meets at Amaliegade 14, lasts about 2h30 and is guided in English; rated 9.4/10 from 511 reviews on Civitatis.

Start times vary by date and are confirmed when you book.

Copenhagen's harbor made the city rich long before anyone had heard of Hans Christian Andersen, and this tour walks the waterfront where that history is still visible. It ends at the Little Mermaid, the small bronze statue unveiled in 1913 and inspired by Andersen's fairy tale — smaller and more modest in person than any postcard suggests, and all the more interesting for it.

Getting there takes you past Kastellet, a star-shaped 17th-century fortress that still functions as a military base and public park in one, and along stretches of harbor once controlled by the Danish East India and Asiatic Companies. Your guide separates the myths around the mermaid statue from what's actually documented, including the vandalism it has survived over the decades — a detail most visitors never learn.

Tour highlights

The Little Mermaid statue
Kastellet fortress
Gefion Fountain
Amalienborg Palace
Copenhagen Harbour promenade

Meeting point

Amaliegade 14

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After the tour

Kronborg Castle, Lund & Malmö Day Trip8.7/10(822 reviews)from€124

Copenhagen Canal Cruise8.4/10(732 reviews)from€23

See all activities in Copenhagen

This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.

Frequently asked questions

Is the The Little Mermaid & Port of Copenhagen Free Tour really free?

Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.

Where does the The Little Mermaid & Port of Copenhagen Free Tour start?

The tour meets at Amaliegade 14 ( Amaliegade 14). The exact meeting point and how to spot your guide are confirmed in your Civitatis booking.

How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?

It lasts around 2h30 and is guided in English. One booking covers up to 6 people; larger parties need a private tour. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.