The Day the Soldiers Came: A Self Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour

Denmark’s World War II story began in darkness, with an invasion that caught a nation asleep. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll follow the dramatic events of April 9, 1940 – the day Nazi Germany seized Copenhagen in a lightning-fast operation that unfolded in just a few hours. From the first German troops disembarking silently at the harbour to the final stand at the King’s palace, you’ll experience this pivotal moment in Danish history as it happened, location by location. This tour starts at the memorial to Danish civilian sailors who died in World War I. You’ll trace the steps of German soldiers as they advanced in the dark from Langelinie quay to capture the historic Citadel fortress. Walking through Churchill Park, you’ll hear how Danish defenders were at first taken completely by surprise but quickly rallied to stage a dramatic fight back. At the same time you’ll find out how tragic this moment was for Denmark.