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Top attractions in Copenhagen

Some sights and attractions are almost synonymous with Copenhagen. We've gathered them here. Most are within walking distance from the city centre and you are free to pick and choose between the Copenhagen classics. With a Copenhagen Card , you'll have access to more than 80 attractions.

Copenhagen Zoo

With more than 4,000 animals from all over the world, Copenhagen ZOO is one of Denmark's most visited attractions.

Den Blå Planet, National Aquarium Denmark

Is it better down where it's wetter? Find out at Denmark's National Aquarium.

SMK - The National Gallery of Denmark

Denmark's largest art gallery, SMK has an outstanding collection of Danish and international art.

Amalienborg Palace

Take a peek behind the scenes of the Danish Royal Family.

A unique mini theme park in the woods north of Copenhagen, Bakken is the oldest amusement park in the world. 

The National Museum

Denmark's showstopping national history museum.

The Round Tower

This 17th Century tower and observatory is one of Copenhagen's most iconic buildings.

Experimentarium

Forget any school memories you may have of boring science classes and dry textbooks. Denmark’s leading science centre has been capturing the imagination of adults and children alike for over thirty ye ...

Glyptoteket

Art and sculpture museum in central Copenhagen with a glorious winter garden.

Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen houses some of Denmark's greatest cultural treasures. The castle was built 1606-34 by Christian IV as a pleasure palace. In the basement you will find the Danish crown j ...

Christiansborg Palace

Experience 800 years of royal history at the awe-inspiring Christiansborg Palace.

Kronborg Castle - UNESCO World Heritage

Drama-packed Kronborg is one of Northern Europe’s finest Renaissance castles. 

Frilandsmuseet

The Open Air Museum, Frilandsmuseet, is one of the oldest and largest open air museums in the world.

Tivoli Gardens

Magical Tivoli Gardens is Copenhagen's central theme park. And one of the oldest in the world.

The Little Mermaid

Arguably one of Copenhagen's most iconic tourist attractions, the sculpture of The Little Mermaid was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s  famous fairy tale.

The Botanical Garden

Ten hectares of gardens with a butterfly house and a tropical palm house dating to 1874. 

[DELETED] Zoological Museum

Take a walk among mammoths, woolly-haired rhinos, steppe bison, and giant deer once native to Denmark.

Natural History Museum of Denmark

Natural History Museum of Denmark is the Danish national museum for nature and is beautifully located in the corner of the Botanical Garden close to Nørreport Station in the heart of Copenhagen. Marve ...

Planetarium

Discover the secrets of the universe at the Tycho Brahe Planetarium.

King's Garden

Denmark's oldest royal gardens.

Copenhagen's largest shopping area is centered around Strøget in the heart of the city.

The Marble Church

The city’s most impressive church, with views over the city from the top, the Marble Church is also known as Frederik's Church.

Skip the crowds and explore beyond the beaten track

We suggest you visit some of the neighbourhoods that makes Copenhagen special. It's a pocket-sized city, so you won't have to travel far. And see our editorial staff's handpicked tips for each month. 

Editor's choice - Our 5 tips for this month

Each month the editorial staff at VisitCopenhagen give you five of their personal recommendations on what to do in Copenhagen. 

The Copenhagen neighbourhood guide

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Copenhagen

Written by Andrew Birbeck Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, is by far the largest city in the country. Here, you'll find a multitude of tourist attractions to please even the pickiest of travelers. For instance, the Parliament (Folketing) at Christiansborg , familiar to many through the Danish smash-hit TV series Borgen , and the residence of the Royal Family at Amalienborg are unmissable.

Arguably Scandinavia's most relaxed capital city, Copenhagen has a distinctly European feel, a friendly street-life, and unique café culture that will make you want to return time and time again. The city is perfect for wandering through at your leisure, or alternatively, make like a local and hop on a bike, the preferred mode of transport for many.

Throughout the city, there's a nautical vibe reflected in the colorful shore-side homes of Nyhavn and tall ships docked along the quays. Remember, too, that this is where many would claim the much-vaunted Nordic food revolution began. As a consequence, Copenhagen is home to a great number of cutting-edge restaurants including world-renowned Noma, where tables must be booked months, if not years, in advance.

For ideas on the best places to visit in this magical city, read our list of the top attractions in Copenhagen.

1. Tivoli Gardens

2. christiansborg palace, 3. national museum of denmark, 4. the national gallery of denmark (statens museum for kunst), copenhagen, 5. nyhavn harbor, 6. den bla planet, 7. the round tower (rundetårn), 8. amalienborg castle, 9. strøget shopping mile, 10. rosenborg palace, 11. kastellet & the little mermaid, 12. town hall square, 13. christiania, 14. bakken: the world's oldest amusement park, 15. copenhagen zoo, where to stay in copenhagen for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to copenhagen, map of tourist attractions in copenhagen.

Walking from Town Hall Square and crossing H.C. Andersens Boulevard brings you to the inspiration behind the Disney theme parks: the famous Tivoli amusement park and pleasure gardens dating from 1843.

It's impossible to miss the grand entrance at Vesterbrogade. Here, visitors are welcomed through a dramatic archway flanked by columns. No matter what time of year you visit, Tivoli feels festive.

Inside the gardens, you'll wind your way through a village complete with cute shops and a lake adorned by well lit trees that are mirrored serenely in the water. That's likely the only serenity you'll find in this miniature theme park, which brings out the kid in every visitor.

Here, you'll also find more than 20 attractions, including a roller coaster; roundabouts; halls of mirrors; pantomime, puppet, and open-air theaters; a wealth of restaurants and cafés; flower gardens; and a Moorish-styled concert hall, which is particularly pleasing when lit up at night.

The park is famous worldwide and appears in many movies. Indeed, some might say it's the most famous attraction in Copenhagen. At Christmas, Tivoli becomes an extravagantly decorated wonderland.

Address: Vesterbrogade 3, Copenhagen

Official site: www.tivoli.dk/en

On the tiny island of Slotsholmen is the Danish seat of government and an attraction that should top any visitor's agenda. Christiansborg boasts more than 800 years of history and today, the palace is home to the Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court.

In addition, several parts are still used by the Royal House, although thankfully, much is open to the public. Occupying the site where Bishop Absalon built the earliest fortifications of the city in 1167, the ruins of the bishop's castle and the medieval fortress were discovered when the present palace was under construction and can now be toured.

Among other points of interest are the Royal Kitchen, Royal Reception Rooms, Royal Stables, and the Palace Chapel. Opening hours for each section of the palace can vary since they are in use, so be sure to check ahead if you are interested in a specific area.

Address: Christiansborg Slotsplads, Copenhagen

Official site: http://kongeligeslotte.dk/da/slotte-og-haver/christiansborg-slot.html

An easy 10-minute walk from Tivoli along Vestergade brings you to the National Museum (Nationalmuseet), a must-see attraction for anyone with an interest in Danish history and culture.

Some impressive runic stones are on display here, and the Danish history collection includes a sun chariot (cult object in the form of a cart) that is more than 2,000 years old, Romanesque and Gothic church fittings, Danish porcelain and silver, and collections of antiquities and coins.

The ethnographical collection, including items from Greenland, gives an excellent impression of life among the Eskimos. Inside, you'll also find collections from other interesting areas including, Asia, Africa and Oceania, as well as the culture of the Indians.

That's not all! Here, you'll also find the Prince's Palace (1744), a Rococo building influenced by the French style of the period. Around five-minutes' stroll from the National Museum, Thorvaldsen's Museum is also worth a visit to view spectacular works from this famous Danish sculptor.

Address: Ny Vestergade 10, Copenhagen

Official site: http://en.natmus.dk/

The National Gallery of Denmark displays the largest collection of Danish art from the 1700s to the present day, as well as impressive works from around the world.

Highlights include the Danish and Nordic art exhibition, which spans 150 years, as well as paintings by the Dutch Masters, Edvard Munch, and Picasso among others.

Natural light floods the upper floors giving the gallery a wonderful, airy ambience. Be sure to pick up a map before exploring all the collections, so you don't miss any of the impressive works.

Once you've finished appreciating the art, take a break at the on-site café. It is particularly pleasant and a great place to unwind and soak up the surroundings.

Address: Solvgade 48-50, Copenhagen

Official site: www.smk.dk

To the rear of Amalienborg lies Nyhavn (New Harbor), which is flanked by a street of the same name. This enchanting area is a hub of activity, especially during summer. Brightly painted gabled buildings line the canal, adding a splash of color to dreary days and enticing visitors to stop in for a peek at the wares for sale in the shops and a tasty bite in the restaurants and cafés that call this place home.

At the end of the harbor, an anchor serves as a memorial to Danish sailors who lost their lives in World War II. Nyhavn was once a disreputable quarter of the city, but now, with its majestic feel, it is a particularly charming part of Copenhagen that features in countless images of the city.

Idyllic museum ships lie at anchor, including a lightship (Fyrskib) dating from 1885. From Nyhavn, hydrofoil and catamaran services operate to Sweden, as well as sightseeing trips around the harbor and along the canal.

Although you won't likely notice this from the ground, Den Bla Planet (a.k.a. the National Aquarium Denmark ) was built to resemble a whirlpool. Think that's cool? Head inside where the aquarium's wow factor is even more impressive!

The largest aquarium in Northern Europe, Den Bla Planet is one of the best attractions in Copenhagen. The building's aluminum-covered walls evoke rolling ocean waves while the aquarium's inner pathways flow like tributaries from the central core through eight sections.

These paths are lined by close to 50 aquariums and installations that house everything from eagle rays to turtles to hammerhead sharks to seahorses to moray eels to alligators. There is no shortage of creatures to see here.

Whether you're hoping to spot ocean animals up close or are interested in the marine life that call tropical rivers and lakes home, you're sure to find something inspiring in this venue. Watch the otters play, touch a creature in the tropical touch pool, or visit the café for a treat.

Address: 2770 Kastrup, Copenhagen

On Købmagergade is the Round Tower (Rundetårn), a 36-meter-high structure built as an observatory in 1642. It now also houses a small collection connected with the famous Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe.

A particular treat is the platform, reached by a wide spiral ramp. From the top are magnificent panoramic views over the city. A new attraction is the glass floor hovering 25 meters above the ground where you can peer down into the castle's core.

Fans of Hans Christian Andersen will be interested to know that the tower features in his well-known story The Tinderbox - "eyes as big as the Round Tower."

After taking in the views and getting your breath back, why not continue on with a short walk around the Old Town? Wander by way of Skindergade and Kejsergade to Gråbrødretorv , one of Copenhagen's most charming squares with its brightly colored old houses.

Address: Købmagergade 52A, Copenhagen

Official site: www.rundetaarn.dk

Less than one and a half kilometers from Rosenborg in the Frederiksstaden quarter, you'll find Rosenborg's sister palace, Amalienborg, along with its serene waterfront gardens.

The four palaces facing onto the square were originally built as homes for the nobility, but were taken over by the Royal Family after a fire at Christiansborg in 1794. The palace takes its name from Queen Sophie Amalie who had a sumptuous summer retreat on the site, which also burned down in 1689.

The area was designed to be a model society with the King as focal point and the aristocracy (the four palaces) surrounding him. Today, Queen Margrethe II and her family occupy the upper story of Christian IX Palace , and the Moltke Palace is used for official purposes. The soldiers of the Royal Guard with their bearskins and blue (on festive occasions red, white, and blue) uniforms are a unique symbol of the city.

Address: Amalienborg Slotsplads, Copenhagen

A stroll of around five minutes from Christiansborg takes you to the bustling shopping area of Strøget where you'll find a wealth of boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.

Strøget, a nickname from the 1800s, consists of several roads crisscrossing one another, beginning at Town Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen) and ending at Kongens Nytorv. Some adjoining streets on the north have also been pedestrianized.

International brand-name stores such as Max Mara, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès tend to be at the end of the street facing the direction of Kongens Nytorv. Follow Strøget towards City Hall Square for more affordable shopping at H&M, Weekday, and Zara.

Less than 10-minutes' walk from the Round Tower and now home to some of Denmark's greatest cultural treasures, this castle was originally built by Christian IV as a pleasure palace.

Inhabited by the royal family until 1720 and after that used as a summer retreat, the castle and contents became a museum in 1838. In the basement are the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia.

Of particular interest are the Marble Room, a Baroque reception room, and the Knights' Hall with the Coronation Throne (used between 1871 to 1940), as well as the famous Rosenborg Tapestries, which have adorned the walls since 1693. Exquisite porcelain is also on exhibit, including the famous Flora Danica service.

Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, Copenhagen

Let's face it: You can't visit the Danish capital without seeing the Little Mermaid , so head along the waterfront from Nyhavn to Kastellet (less than two kilometers) and take in the iconic statue and surroundings. Many boat tours also pass by the mermaid, but seeing it on land offers a much better vantage point.

Kastellet is the former Citadel of Frederikshavn, the oldest parts of which date from 1625. The Citadel buildings are well maintained and well worth exploring. The Little Mermaid (Den lille Havfrue), which you'll see from the shore, is the official emblem of Copenhagen.

The bronze sculpture, created by Edvard Eriksen in 1913, is based on a theme from one of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales, which tells the tale of a mermaid who once came up out of the depths of the sea because she'd fallen in love with a prince. Sadly, as the prince didn't reciprocate, she was forced to leave the human world and return once more to the sea.

You won't be able to get right up to the mermaid herself, perched on rocks just offshore, but there are plenty of perfect spots to pose in front of this famous statue.

Address: Langelinie, Copenhagen

Busy Town Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen) is dominated by Copenhagen Town Hall (built between 1892 and 1905), which is based on a mix of Italian Renaissance and medieval Danish architecture.

For marvelous views, you can climb the tower; at 106 meters high, it is the tallest in the city. The building itself is richly adorned with sculptures and paintings.

Above the main entrance is a figure of Bishop Absalon in gilded copper, and in the Great Hall are busts of Danish notables such as Martin Nyrop (1849-1921), the architect who designed the building, the sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen (1770-1840), Hans Christian Andersen (1805-76), and the physicist Niels Bohr (1885-1962).

The World Clock at the main entrance was designed and constructed by Jens Olsen in 1955 and shows not only the time and date, but also various astronomical constellations.

Address: Rådhuspladsen 1, Copenhagen

Official site: www.kk.dk

Starting out as a hippy settlement more than 40 years ago, this unique and controversial area was firstly designated as a social experiment and is now owned by the residents.

Christiania is one of Denmark's most loved tourist attractions, and each year, this "freetown" lures up to a million visitors. Admittedly, it may not be to everyone's taste, however, it is a functioning alternative society, a place where many accepted norms simply don't apply, and people live by their own rules.

Cars are banned, bicycles are the main mode of transport, and horses roam free. Highlights are the handmade houses and buildings and the large lake where children splash around with each other on hot summer days. The small shops and cafés use a special Christiania currency.

Address: Christiania Freetown, Copenhagen

Official site: www.christiania.org

About a 20-minute drive north of Copenhagen, Bakken amusement park is a folksy version of the Tivoli , with numerous restaurants, cafés, and fun things to do — especially for younger children.

Believe it or not, this has been a leisure facility since 1583. There are no less than six roller coasters and more than 30 different rides, including a ghost train. Entrance into the park itself is free, allowing those who just want to stroll about and take in the atmosphere to do so without paying a fee.

The surrounding wood and parkland is particularly pleasant, and there are excellent train and bus links from the city-center for those who aren't driving. Nearby, you'll find Klampenborg with prestigious villas and excellent bathing.

Address: Dyrehavevej 62, Klampenborg

Official site: www.bakken.dk

To the west of Copenhagen, a little more than three kilometers from the city center, lies the Zoological Garden (Zoologisk Have), founded in 1859 and one of the oldest and largest zoos in Europe.

The enclosures imitate the animals' natural surroundings as closely as possible. Here, you can watch polar bears, seals, lions, and other animals being fed. At the entrance, there's an observation tower.

Favorite exhibits are the bird lake with storks and pelicans, reptile house, monkey house, and lion's den among others. Of particular interest is the Norman-Foster-designed elephant enclosure.

Address: Roskildevej 32, Frederiksberg

The best place to stay in Copenhagen is near the Old Town, where many of the major attractions are concentrated. The center of the Old Town is the Kongens Nytorv public square, with its statues, historical buildings, and cobblestone streets.

Major sights in the surrounding area include the famous Stroget pedestrian shopping mall and the Nyhavn Canal. More moderately priced accommodation can be found in the trendy Vesterbro area, also known as the Meatpacking District.

Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• In a wonderful location overlooking the Tivoli Gardens, just a short stroll from the Town Hall, the boutique Nimb Hotel offers luxurious, individually designed rooms and suites.
• The modern Copenhagen Marriott Hotel occupies a prominent waterfront location on the city's harbor, a short stroll from the Tivoli Gardens and a couple of kilometers away from the Kongens Nytorv area.
• In the up-and-coming Orestad area and adjacent to Scandinavia's largest mall, the Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers is a unique property, designed using sustainable principles and offering spacious rooms with expansive views. The Metro stop is right outside the hotel and the Old Town is a 10-minute ride away.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the hip Vesterbro neighborhood is the Andersen Boutique Hotel . Rather than a specific check-in and check-out time, this hotel offers a 24-hour rental known as CONCEPT24, which includes breakfast and begins at the time you arrive (just be sure to book it directly through the hotel).
• Also in the same area is the Axel Guldsmeden hotel, with a Balinese-inspired décor and a wonderful courtyard with comfortable seating.
• Conveniently located next to the main train station is the modern 161-room Absalon Hotel , with a variety of spacious rooms.

Budget Hotels:

• The affordable boutique Rye115 Hotel was fully remodeled and updated in 2019, furnished with vintage Nordic furniture and décor. It is located in the Østerbro neighborhood next to the Trianglen St. Metro station and Fælledparken, a large park with a small lake.
• With two-bedroom suites, perfect for families, the Wakeup Copenhagen is a block from the waterfront and a 10-minute walk to Tivoli Gardens.
• For basic, low-cost rooms in a central location try the Hotel City Nebo , a short stroll from the train station.

Sightseeing :

• If you're short on time and want to see as many sights as possible, the Copenhagen Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Bus and Boat is a convenient option. Accompanied by an informative commentary, this flexible tour allows you to combine four interconnected sightseeing routes, on land and water, stopping to spend time at your favorite attractions and hopping back on to continue the tour. The tickets are valid for 48 hours.
• If you have even less time but still want to see Copenhagen's top sights, the Copenhagen 3-hour City Highlights Bike Tour includes bicycles and a professional guide. The tour includes 10 to 15 minutes at each stop for photographs and exploring; the route includes Rosenborg Castle, the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn street, Christiana, Christiansborg Slot, and several other attractions.
• For those who want a tour with a different perspective, the two-hour Copenhagen Canal Tour is an excellent option. This small-group tour is adjusted to the interests of each group, so that you get the most out of your trip. The canal boat typically sails past around two dozen major landmarks including Frederiks Kirke, Christiansborg Slot, the Royal Danish Library, Copenhagen Opera House, and Nyhavn Harbour.

Save Money :

• If you plan on visiting several of the city's attractions and want to save money, consider pre-purchasing a Copenhagen Card . This great-value card gives you free entry into 74 Copenhagen attractions (including Tivoli Gardens); free, unlimited use of the city's public transport networks; and discounts for certain tours, museums, and restaurants.

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9 must-sees in Copenhagen

All capitals have their classic sights - the things you just have to see and do - and Copenhagen is no different. We will guide you to some of Copenhagen's most iconic attractions and experiences, from Nyhavn to Tivoli, Strøget and Amalienborg, so you can tick them off on your list.

Tivoli Gardens: A worldclass amusement park

Tivoli is the most popular attraction in all of Denmark for a reason. Over 4 million visit the park every year and it is not surprising considering how much Tivoli has to offer. Come for the wonderful atmosphere, the wild rides, the restaurants and the concerts. Tivoli is also open during Halloween and autumn holidays, Christmas and New Year and their new winter season in February.

Nyhavn: A Danish Classic

The name Copenhagen comes from the words for "Merchant Harbor" for a reason. Nyhavn used to be one of the hubs for the ship merchants of yesteryear. With its colorful facades, Nyhavn is a compulsory stop on the classic list. Although it may be busy with tourists from all corners of the world, finding a place on one of the many outdoor dining venues is usually easy. Sit down and enjoy a sandwich and a cold beer and indulge in some primo people-watching. Christmas time opens with a cozy Christmas market in Nyhavn, the epitome of hygge.

Amalienborg: The Queen's palace

Amalienborg Palace is the Queen's residence in Copenhagen. The palace consists of four separate rococo palaces around a square, two of which are open to the public. One houses a museum where you can view almost 400 years of royal history in the form of paintings and other objects, and in the second you can get a close look at what the Danish royal residence is like on the inside. Do not miss the changing of the guard that happens every day at 12 noon.

Strøget: Copenhagen's shopping street

Strøget is the central pedestrian street at the center of Copenhagen's major shopping area. There's everything you could want nearby, from budget options and small independent shops to some of the world's most exclusive brands. The stretches and the many small side streets are full of shops, cafes and restaurants with something for all tastes. If you want to shop for classic Danish design, you can visit Georg Jensen, Royal Copenhagen or Illums Bolighus.

Canal tour: See the city from the water

When the weather is nice, a canal tour is a great way to see iconic sights around Copenhagen. Jump on at Nyhavn or near Christiansborg and follow a tour that takes you past the Opera House, The Black Diamond library and The Little Mermaid sitting on its rock. You continue through Christianshavn's cozy canals, full of houseboats and lined with charming old buildings. 

The Round Tower: Copenhagen's historic vantage point

The Round Tower, built in the 17th century, is Europe's oldest functioning observatory and is used extensively by amateur astronomers. Once you get to the top via the spiral ramp, you'll see a striking view of Copenhagen from a viewing platform running around the tower. Horses used to drag carts loaded with books up to the university library at the top, hence the spiral ramp instead of stairs.

Rosenborg Castle: A Renaissance gem in the middle of town

Rosenborg Castle is a 400-year-old Renaissance castle located in the center of Copenhagen. In addition to the beautiful exterior and the royal palace park, there is a lot to discover inside the castle. Inside, you can see three life-size silver lions keeping watch, and do not miss the Danish crown jewels that can only be worn by the Queen and only when they are within the borders of the country.

Christiania: Copenhagen's free town

Christiania is a colorful and controversial area in Copenhagen that is definitely worth a visit. The sanctuary was started as a social experiment in the 70's but has survived and is today a popular excursion destination for both tourists and Copenhageners. There are several good cafes and restaurants where you hang for a while and look at the people's life after a walk among the hilarious and odd houses of Christiania.

Please note that some visitors may find Christiania, particularly the area around Pusher Street, to be rough. For your own safety, we recommend that follow the Do's and Don'ts signs up at the entrances and refrain yourself from taking any photos or videos.

Smørrebrød: Classic Danish Food

We finish this list with a dish that is as iconic as Tivoli or The Little Mermaid, namely the smørrebrød (sounds kind of like "smuurreh-bruuldt"). Try this delicious open-faced sandwich at one of Copenhagen's restaurants for the perfect end to your trip. The hardest part might be choosing where to eat, like the popular Aamanns or at Schønnemanns, one of Copenhagen's oldest restaurants.

Add these to your Copenhagen reading list:

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15 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen

By Mary Holland and Jenna Scatena

Whether you’ve spent months designing a carefully crafted itinerary or just arrived on an impromptu trip, you’ll find plenty to convince you to stay in Copenhagen just a little longer. From immersive, local-led canal tours to lush urban gardens, and even floating hot tubs that sail the city's famed canals, there's no shortage of entertainment in here. We did the hard part for you, and crafted a list of our favorite things to do in the capital. Whether you want to spend all day outside, or cozy up indoors, read on for our picks for what to do the next time you're in Copenhagen.

Click the link to read our complete Copenhagen city guide .

Rosenborg Castle Arrow

This castle dates to 1606 when it was built as a royal summer house by one of the most famous Scandinavian kings, Christian IV. Now it offers a glimpse into Copenhagen’s regal history, like a time capsule filled with treasures and works of art. Spend an hour or two here, walking the halls as Danish royalty once did. Don't miss the Knights' Hall with its coronation thrones. You'll also find the king’s private writing cabinet, living areas, and bathroom. There's also an impressive Venetian glass collection. 

CopenHot Arrow

CopenHot is an al fresco spa ... sort of. There aren’t any massages here, but what it lacks in pampering it makes up for in coolness. Perched right on the water in the industrial-hip Nordhavn neighborhood, a cluster of wooden hot tubs and saunas overlook the water. Tubs can be rented for a group, or you can come to one of their open days. To warm up and chill out, you have several options. Barrel-wood hot tubs are filled with clean, mineral-rich saltwater and heated from below by a fire (note the dude chopping firewood on-site). The coveted sailing spas fit five people in a floating hot tub that navigate the canals. And panoramic saunas overlook the harbor.

Alchemist Arrow

The Alchemist, a bucket-list dining destination, gears its menu around some 47 intricate, creative courses. While you may not like all of them—how could you?—you will either be challenged or pleasantly surprised. As such, this isn't the kind of place for a casual meal with the kids. On the contrary, it's where you come when you've saved up for months so you can celebrate a truly special occasion.

CopenHill Arrow

Designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, CopenHill is a multi-use waste-to-energy plant. Why would anyone possibly want to visit a waste-to-energy plant? Well, the building—a real architectural marvel that's worth seeing—has a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. Even if you have no interest in skiing down the 1,300-foot slope, you'll certainly be interested in seeing the action. At the very least, swing by the cafe for an apres-ski beer.

Shannon McMahon

Mark Ellwood

Chris Schalkx

Emily Saladino

National Museum of Denmark Arrow

Denmark’s largest museum is a stunning display of cultural history, both Danish and foreign. Located in the 18th-century Prince’s Palace, exhibits stretch back in time to the Stone Age and Viking Age, and up through modern Danish history. People from across Denmark and around the globe visit this world-class museum. Prepare for thick crowds, especially during high season. Tip: Get there early, and go on a weekday, if you can.

Refshaleøen Arrow

Refshaleøen has some of the best restaurants in the city ([Noma](https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/copenhagen/noma), the [Alchemist](https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/copenhagen/alchemist), [Amass](https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/copenhagen/amass)) as well as some lesser-known favorites (Lille Bakery, La Banchina). For those who aren't that into food, the island is also home to CopenHill , where you can try your hand at skiing. The area is fairly spread out, but once you get to the island, there's a bus that lolls around, making it a no-brainer for anyone looking to try some of Copenhagen's best food.

Hey Captain Arrow

A canal boat might sound like a generic tourist activity, but Hey Captain offers a fun, intimate look at the city and a window into daily Danish life. That's especially the case in summer, when locals laze on the docks and dive into the refreshing harbor water. Each boat has one guide and 12 guests, max, keeping the experience intimate and personal. The guides have extensive knowledge on the city, its history, and its architecture. They're also hired for their personalities—the mood is light and enjoyable.

Botanical Garden Arrow

Copenhagen’s botanical gardens are a green oasis in the center of Denmark’s capital. It's got the largest Danish collection of living flora, including more than 13,000 plant species spread over ten hectares and housed in a complex of historic 19th-century greenhouses. The best way to approach a visit here is to prioritize what is in season. While you’re there, be sure to swing past the SMK (National Gallery of Denmark), the country’s largest art museum.

Cisternerne Arrow

As an extension of Copenhagen’s Frederiksberg Museums, the Cisternerne operates as a venue for exhibitions and events—but it’s the space itself that is the permanent exhibit and primary attraction. Once a subterranean reservoir filled with 16 million liters of water, the cistern has been filled by an unconventional museum. The cryptic underground cave—the only dripstone cave in Denmark—is a gloomy labyrinth filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Tivoli Gardens Arrow

This famous amusement park combines manicured gardens and roller coasters in central Copenhagen, and has been attracting visitors since the 19th century, making it the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. Visit at night when thousands of twinkling lights make it feel pulled from a fairytale. And not surprisingly it inspired the likes of Hans Christian Andersen and Walt Disney, who both visited. Be sure to grab lunch or dinner at the restaurant Gemyse, where plant-forward dishes are served inside a greenhouse and a large, lofty dining room.

Nyhavn Arrow

Nyhavn, a 17th-century harbor, is easily the most iconic landmark in Copenhagen. Lined with wooden ships, modern boats, multicolored townhouses, and seafood restaurants, this port is a must-see, and its storied quay is perpetually bustling with locals and visitors. This landmark a public space, so it’s easy to come and go as you please. Nyhavn attracts a crowd as diverse as its history. Over the bridge in the neighboring hood of Christianshavn, you’ll also find some of the oldest houses in Copenhagen. Stop for a coffee and pastry at 108 before exploring one of the oldest parts of the city.

Bike on Copenhagen's New Bridges Arrow

Copenhagen is a marvelous city to see by bike. Grab a coffee from Prolog before heading south along the Cykelslangen (bike snake), which leads to the other side of the harbor. Bike onto Olafur Eliasson’s Circle Bridge, then ride back over the harbor on the new Lille Langebro bridge. Continue along the water to Nyhavn before riding back over the harbor along the Inderhavnsbroen, AKA the Kissing Bridge. In Christianshavn, you'll bike past the old Noma space and Restaurant 108—grab a pastry on the way—and over the Butterfly Bridge.

Jægersborggade Arrow

Jaegersborggade, a cobbled street fringed with colorful buildings, has a slew of great restaurants, bars, and shops. Even though the stretch isn't terribly long, it's the type of place where you easily could spend an entire day. Have a pastry at Meyers Bageri, a coffee at Coffee Collective, lunch at Manfreds, a beer at Mikkeller & Friends, and dinner at Relae. Or, just spend $5 on a coffee and enjoy the browsing, strolling, and people-watching.

Assistens Cemetery Arrow

This famous cemetery is smack in the middle of Copenhagen’s hip Nørrebro district and doubles as a public park that people actually hang out at—and even sunbathe in. Pathways meander through gardens, meadows, and woods punctuated with tombstones of famous Danes. It’s very Nordic noir. Wander the grounds looking for familiar names on headstones, or simply appreciate the park for its lush natural beauty, peaceful gardens, and art sculptures.

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35 BEST Things to do in Copenhagen (Written by locals)

Living in Copenhagen has given us plenty of time to discover all the best things to do in the city!

It’s so wonderful to be able to walk out of our front door, jump on the bike, and be in the city in no time. And luckily for us, there is always something new to explore in Copenhagen whether it’s a new food market or a fun event – you can always find something worth doing in Denmark’s capital.

In this blog post, we’ll list some of the most popular things-, free things-, and most unique things to do in beautiful Copenhagen. So whether it’s your first time or not in the city, you can hopefully find inspiration for your next trip to Copenhagen in this guide.

We hope you’ll enjoy our wonderful city!

Please note:  Dear Reader, this blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read more about it here:  Affiliate Disclaimer .

Best things to do in Copenhagen

No need to drag things out – let’s get straight to the point. Here are the best things to do in Copenhagen listed in no particular order.

1. Visit the Little Mermaid

Copenhagen’s most iconic landmark is definitely the Little Mermaid Statue, and it’s without a doubt a must see attraction for any first-time visitor.

While it’s not as powerful as the Statue of Liberty or as grand as Christ the Redeemer, it’s still a beautiful statue that deserves a visit. You can either visit it yourself or join this 2-hour walking tour in Copenhagen where you’ll also visit the Little Mermaid.

The Little Mermaid Statue is more than 100 years old and it has a great history behind it. The statue is inspired by the famous fairytale “The Little Mermaid” written by Danish writer and poet H. C. Andersen in 1837. The fairytale has since then been reinterpreted in movies, ballets, and musicals.

In 1909, Carl Jacobsen (son of the founder of Carlsberg) saw the “Little Mermaid”-ballet in the Danish Royal Theater, and he liked it so much that he decided to order a statue of the mermaid. The statue was modeled after 2 women: The Danish ballerina Ellen Price (who played the Little Mermaid) and the sculptor Edvard Eriksen’s wife. In 1913, it was finally revealed to the public and has since then been sitting on a rock in the ocean, welcoming the new visitors to Copenhagen.

Related blog post: Visit the Little Mermaid Statue in Copenhagen

2. Enjoy the view at the Round Tower

Another popular thing to do in Copenhagen is to see the view from the Round Tower.

The Round Tower is an old historical building in the city centre of Copenhagen, which used to house the University Library and is currently Europe’s oldest functioning observatory.

We think it’s such a great building with its funny spiral ramp, its significant history, and its magnificent views over Copenhagen. The Round Tower is so unique and it’s a really good place to begin your exploration of Copenhagen because you get a full 360 view over the city from the viewing platform.

The entrance fee is only 40 kr. per adult or it’s free with the Copenhagen Card .

Related blog post: Visiting the Round Tower in Copenhagen

3. Have fun in Tivoli Gardens

One of the top things to do in Copenhagen is to visit Tivoli Gardens! It’s rare to find an amusement park located right in the city centre of a capital city, but here we are! Tivoli opened in 1843 and remains the third oldest functioning amusement park in the world – you can read more about Tivoli’s history here .

There are several roller coasters and many other rides you can do in Tivoli. The most eerie one is probably “Det Gyldne Tårn”/”The Golden Tower”, which takes you 63 meters up high for a great view over Copenhagen only to drop you at a high speed… It should be really beautiful, but it’s a big NO for me (I’m afraid of heights).

Want more adrenaline? Try the roller coaster “Dæmonen”/”The Demon”.

Prefer to take it slow and experience something magical? Try “Den Flyvende Kuffert”/”The Flying Suitcase” and learn about H. C. Andersen’s fairytales.

Even if you’re not into rides and roller coasters, Tivoli Gardens is still a great place to visit because of its beauty – Notice how the buildings and flower gardens were inspired by the Orient. It’s a little beautiful oasis in the middle of a big city.

Tivoli is open during 3 seasons: Summer, Halloween, and Christmas – all seasons are great and the decorations in the last 2 are just incredible! Buy you entrance tickets with unlimited rides here and start exploring this magical place in Copenhagen!

Related blog post: The Ultimate Guide to Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen 2023

4. See the colorful buildings at Nyhavn

Looking for all the other tourists in Copenhagen? Head to Nyhavn. This is where you’ll find the colorful, old buildings you see in any picture about Copenhagen. While it may seem very touristic, the area is actually full of history, so going here is a nice thing to do for any first-time visitor in Copenhagen.

Nyhavn dates back to the 17th century, when the Danish King decided to make a canal that led from the sea and into Kongens Nytorv (King’s Square next to Nyhavn). That way it was easier to drop off fish and other cargo directly into the city.

The houses in Nyhavn were mostly owned by fishermen, and the area became notorious for pubs and prostitutes. Today you won’t find any prostitutes at Nyhavn but you can still find a lot of historical ships located in the canal and a ton of restaurants serving fish and other classic Danish dishes.

Visiting Nyhavn is definitely one of the top things to do if it’s your first time in Copenhagen, but just beware of your belongings as it’s also the most touristic place in the city. I once stopped a thief from stealing someone’s camera (Superhero-badge to me!) and the owner didn’t even notice it got stolen!

Related blog post: What to See at Iconic Nyhavn in Copenhagen

5. Go on a canal tour

One of the best ways to experience Copenhagen is from the canals!

Whether it’s your first time in Copenhagen or whether you’ve been here a million times before, a canal tour is always fun. There is just something about getting on a boat and watching the city pass by.

You can find several canal tours in Copenhagen. Some tours are for big tourist groups, but they’re cheap (check out “Nettobådene” or “Stromma Canal Tours” which are both located in Nyhavn), or you can find a private tour, which will be more intimate but also more expensive.

Don’t know which one to choose? Then just go for the popular Grand Canal Tour from Nyhavn .

Related blog post: What to expect on a Canal Tour in Copenhagen

6. Rent a boat

Want to be your own captain? Then go rent a boat!

One of the best and most fun things to do in Copenhagen is definitely to rent your own boat and sail around the canals. There are several companies that you can rent a boat from.

We’ve only tried to rent a boat through “GoBoat”. With this company you can rent electric boats, so they don’t pollute the ocean and they’re super easy to sail. You can rent a GoBoat from 1 hour and up to 6 hours, and the price depends on the amount of time you choose. There can be a maximum of 8 people in each boat.

Riding around the canals of Copenhagen with your friends is a really fun way to explore the city and see it from a different angle, so we can only recommend you to do this!

7. Visit Christiania

One of the most unique places to visit in Copenhagen is Freetown Christiania.

The freetown was created back in 1971 when a group of people occupied an old military base and moved into the area. A new neighborhood in Copenhagen was formed with a strong focus on freedom, creativity, and community.

Today, Christiania has about 1000 citizens and is known for its interesting houses that are built by the Christianites themselves. It’s a cultural centre where you’ll find a lot of art, there are several live music venues to attend, and the area is located by the beautiful nature of Christianshavn’s Vold.

There is so much to see and do in Freetown Christiania, yet the area is mostly known among tourists for its open cannabis trade, which is both illegal to sell and buy in Denmark. But don’t let this intimidate you, it’s perfectly safe to visit the Freetown, so don’t skip out on this unique place in Copenhagen!

8. Eat your way through the Streetfood Markets

There are so many great things your tastebuds can discover on your trip to Copenhagen! The city is a thriving food capital where you can both find high-end restaurants and a lot of streetfood markets.

And we absolutely love the streetfood markets in Copenhagen!

However, it’s not really cheap like streetfood in Southeast Asia, but instead it’s often something hip and exotic you can get here. And when I say exotic, I mean everything but Danish… So if you love international foods like Italian pasta, American cheeseburgers, Mexican Burritos, or Greek Gyros – then this is the place for you!

The most popular streetfood markets in Copenhagen are Reffen, Broens Gadekøkken, Torvehallerne, and Tivoli Food Hall. If you want to stay in the city center, then I recommend you to try out “Broens Gadekøkken”, which is only a stone’s throw away from Nyhavn. Try Lola Impact’s Burrito and Nachos combo for 155 kr. It’s absolutely delicious!

9. Try Danish Smørrebrød

If you’re not really into streetfood markets and instead prefer to try something very Danish, then go for the “Smørrebrød”.

People call it an open sandwich, but in my opinion that’s a huge misconception as it has nothing to do with a sandwich. Smørrebrød is a piece of Danish ryebread, which is covered with all kinds of god stuff like fish, eggs, and various cold cuts.

There are so many different combinations of Danish Smørrebrød and some of them even have funny names like: “Dyrlægens Natmad”, which means “The veterinarian’s late night snack” or “Sol over Gudhjem”, which means “Sun above Gudhjem”

One of the easiest places to find Smørrebrød in Copenhagen is at Nyhavn – most of the restaurants serve it. And if you really want to go full-on Danish, then try it with a Danish Snaps. Snaps is a liquor that Danes sometimes drink to Smørrebrød as a palate cleanser – absolutely horrible (in my opinion).

Not sure where to start your exploration of Danish food? Then check out this Culinary Experience Tour where you’ll get to try some Danish delights – Smørrebrød included.

10. Visit the Queen at Amalienborg Castle

Another one of the most popular things to do in Copenhagen is to visit Amalienborg Castle – also known as the residence of the Queen of Denmark.

Amalienborg Castle was built in the 1750’s and is actually 4 identical palaces combined, which were originally made for the nobility. However, after the fire at Christiansborg Palace, the royal family moved into one of the palaces. Since then, many Danish kings and queens have lived here.

You can freely walk around in the square between all the palaces. However, chances are you won’t see the queen unless it’s her birthday.

You’ll also notice the Royal Guard are placed at each palace to protect the Danish monarch. You can take pictures of them, but please don’t go too close and do show some respect.

It’s also possible to visit the Amalienborg Museum, which you’ll find in one of the 4 palaces. The entrance fee will set you back 120 kr. or you can visit the museum for free with your Copenhagen Card .

11. Get to know Denmark at the National Museum

Are you curious about Denmark’s history and cultural heritage? Then you should visit the National Museum of Denmark, which is located in the middle of Copenhagen.

You’ll experience life as a viking, see how Denmark got on during the Middle Ages, and you’ll even learn about Danish modern times. Basically, you get to know Denmark’s history from the prehistorical times, and you’ll finish the tour in the now.

There is so much to see in the museum, and it will take you a long time to get through all the different exhibitions. So make sure to either set aside a full day to visit the museum or just chose the time periods you find interesting. We really loved the Prehistoric Period! Check out the other historical themes on National Museum of Denmark’s website .

The National Museum of Denmark is honestly one of the best things to do in Copenhagen if you really want to get to know the country you’re in! You can easily buy your ticket here if you want to plan ahead.

12. Experience Copenhagen’s Michelin Restaurants

If you’re into fine dining and creative, high-quality cooking, then check out one of the many Michelin Restaurants in Copenhagen.

There are a total of 24 Michelin Stars handed out to 14 different restaurants in Copenhagen. Even the two restaurants “Geranium” and “Noma” have managed to reach 3 stars, which is the highest possible! So it’s safe to say that you can get some incredible food experiences in Copenhagen.

Since fine dining is often expensive, Glenn and I don’t have any experiences to share with you in this area. But go check out the Michelin Guide to Copenhagen – you may get tempted!

13. Go shopping at Strøget

Do you love to shop? Well you’re in luck because you’ll (supposedly) find the World’s longest pedestrian shopping street named “Strøget” in Copenhagen. I write “supposedly” because there are only a few sources confirming this, and I haven’t been out with my measuring tape myself.

Anyways, Copenhagen as a hip fashion city in Europe. Scandinavian design generally has a strong focus on minimalism, sustainability, and high quality. So the style in Copenhagen is often low-key, clean-cut, yet bold. If that makes sense?

There are several malls located all around Copenhagen, but the two most famous department stores in the city centre are Illum and Magasin du Nord. I personally love Magasin Du Nord – here you’ll also get 10% discount on your purchase if you’re a foreigner (just show your passport).

Going shopping in the city center of Copenhagen is certainly one of the best things to do if you want to bring some of the latest Scandinavian trends home with you.

14. Visit Rosenborg Castle and see the crown jewels

Denmark is one of the oldest kingdoms in the world, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find many castles around the country. Luckily for us, there is actually a classic Renaissance castle placed right in the middle of Copenhagen – this is Rosenborg Castle.

Rosenborg Castle was built around 400 years ago for King Christian IV. It was meant to be a pleasure palace to hold venues in the summer, but it quickly became one of the King’s favorite places to stay.

The castle is located in the middle of King’s Garden – a great hangout spot for local Copenhageners and tourists alike. You can easily visit the castle with your Copenhagen Card or pay the entry fee of 130 kr. Included in the price is both access to the castle and to the crown jewels.

I’ve been inside Rosenborg Castle on many occasions, and I still find it one of the best things to do in Copenhagen if you want to experience some Danish royal history.

15. Drink beer in Carlsberg City

Do you like beer? Then the best thing to do is visiting Carlsberg City in Copenhagen. Carlsberg city is a new neighborhood that’s located in the former brewery site of Carlsberg.

Carlsberg was founded in 1847 by Jacob Christian Jacobsen, and up until 2008, the Carlsberg brewery was located at Valby Bakke in Copenhagen. This means that Carlsberg was actually brewed in Copenhagen for 160 years! During these years, Carlsberg was an enclosed industrial area, but after the move, Carlsberg opened their doors to the public.

Today you can visit the old brewery site, explore the new neighborhood, and go on a beer tasting tour!

So if you like beer and want to go on a tour around the old brewery site, then you should definitely check out Carlsberg on your trip to Copenhagen. NOTE: Carlsberg Tours are closed until the summer of 2023 due to renovation.

16. Get the best view at the Tower of Our Saviour’s Church

One of the greatest things to do in Copenhagen is to visit the golden, spiral tower at Our Saviour’s Church and get the best views over the city!

Our Saviour’s Church was finished in the 1690’s, and just a little over 50 years later, the beautiful tower was added. Visiting this incredible tower has become one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Copenhagen.

Walk the 400 steps up to the top of the 90-meter tall tower, and enjoy the 360-view of Copenhagen, which only gets better and better when you ascend the spiral staircase. It’s absolutely eerie and uncomfortable for people with fear of heights (like myself), but the views are just breathtaking!

Visiting the Tower of Our Saviour’s Church will set you back 69 kr. or you can visit it for free with your Copenhagen Card . The Spiral Tower is open every day from 9 AM – 8 PM, but last ascend is it 7:30 PM.

Related blog post: How to Visit Our Saviour’s Church Tower in Copenhagen

17. Eat your way through all the good stuff in the bakeries

Are you into bread, pastries, and other baked goods? Then you’re in luck! Because Copenhagen has some incredible bakeries. In my opinion, you’ll find the best baked goods in the world here – but I’m also biased being a Dane myself.

You can get the typical baked goods like bread and cake, but if you really want to try something Danish, then go for “Wienerbrød”. Wienerbrød is the name of a category of Danish, classic pastries. Try the Kanelsnegl, Rosenbrød, Tebirkes, Frøsnapper, or go for a classic Chocolate Croissant. All these are things we sometimes eat in the morning with a cup of coffee.

If you instead want to try a classic Danish cake, then go for Jordbærtærte, Christianshavnertærte, or Kajkage – all of which you can often find in the bakeries.

The baked goods that you find in Danish bakeries are of very high quality, which can often be seen in the price. But it’s oh-so-good!

You can either try the classic bakery chains like Meyers, Lagkagehuset, Reinh Van Hauen, and Emmerys – or you can go check out something more artisanal like Andersen & Maillard. Either way, trying out the bakeries is a great way to start your day in Copenhagen!

18. Visit Copenhagen’s Zoo

Are you fascinated by animals? Then go check out the Zoo in Copenhagen.

The Zoo is located in Frederiksberg, only a metro ride out of the city center, and you know you’ve reached your destination when you spot the famous Zoo Tower. Everyone in Copenhagen knows the Zoo Tower, which is a 43 meter tall observation tower that has some great views over the park and of Copenhagen in general. You can actually spot the Zoo Tower from the Round Tower if you look closely!

Anyways, you can find many animals in the Zoo such as elephants, pandas, and baboons – just to name a few. You’ll also find several restaurants and café options in the park. The entry ticket for a 12+ years old adult is 209 kr. and for a child below 12 years old is only 119 kr. You can either buy your zoo entrance in advance here or enter for free with your Copenhagen Card .

While we’re personally not the biggest fan of watching caged animals, we do know that the Copenhagen Zoo is also actively contributing to preservation of animal species and nature – and we’ll gladly support that.

19. Explore Copenhagen’s parks & Gardens

One of the best things about living in Copenhagen is to visit the many parks and gardens – it’s also one of the best free things to do in the city.

Most of the parks in Copenhagen have something to offer. For example, you can watch the Zoo elephants from Frederiksberg Garden, or you can enjoy the view of Rosenborg Castle from King’s Garden, or why not take a walk in Copenhagen’s Botanical Garden?

There are so many incredible green areas in Copenhagen, and they’re used all-year-round. Even during winter, you’ll see stubborn locals walking around the parks trying while to warm their frozen hands on a take-away coffee.

So make sure to check out some of the great parks in Copenhagen if you need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Related blog post: 10 Best Green Areas & Parks in Copenhagen

20. Go swimming in the ocean of Copenhagen

Did you know that there are several designated swim areas throughout the city of Copenhagen? It’s not that many capital cities where you can just jump in the ocean and cool off like that!

So one of the best things to do in Copenhagen during the summer months is definitely to go swimming and sunbathing with your friends. But you can actually spot people jumping in all-year-round because some are into winter-bathing. It’s a big NO from me, but don’t let me stop you if you visit Copenhagen during winter.

You can find designated swim areas called “Harbor Baths” at Island’s Brygge, Nordhavn, Kalvebod Brygge, Refshaleøen, and Fisketorvet. Please use the designated areas when you go swimming since it’s not legal to just jump in wherever you want. There are many boats in Copenhagen’s canals and you could easily create a dangerous situation.

If you prefer to go to the beach, then you can also find two beaches in Copenhagen named Svanemøllen Beach and Amager Beach. We absolutely love to spend time here during the summer!

21. Enjoy the heat in the Palm House

One of the things I love to do during winter in Copenhagen is to enter the Palm House in the Botanical Garden. The humidity is so high in here that it feels like visiting Southeast Asia.

The Palm House is basically a massive greenhouse that was built between 1872-1874 and is inspired by the former Crystal Palace in London. Today the Palm House is home to many exotic, tropical plants – including a ton of palms as you may have guessed by now. You can also walk up the spiral stairs and see the Palm House from above.

When you’re done visiting the Palm House, then make sure to enjoy the view at the front of the greenhouse where you can see the Botanical Garden with Copenhagen’s rooftops behind it.

The entrance fee to the Palm House is 60 kr. and a visit to the Butterfly House is included in the price.

22. Be adventurous at Copenhill

Visiting Copenhill is without a doubt one of the most unique things you can do in the city. Copenhill is Copenhagen’s center of urban mountain sport where you can ski, sledge, hike, run, and climb.

Copenhill is such a unique project – the building is actually a waste plant that burns trash and creates energy from it! But on the building’s “roof”, Copenhill and all its sport activities was born, which makes the building a multifunctional project.

Walking up Copenhill is one of the best free things you can do in the city, and you’re rewarded with a nice view at the top. However, if you want to ski down the hill, then you (of course) need to pay for it. There is also an afterski bar at the top of the hill.

Related blog post: Best viewpoints in Copenhagen

23. Visit Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace is without a doubt one of Copenhagen’s most important and iconic buildings. The Palace was built in 1740 and used to be the resident of the Danish royalty.

However, about 50 years later (in 1794), the palace burned down and wasn’t completely rebuilt until 1828. But the palace didn’t last for long as it unfortunately went up in smoke again in 1884. After it was rebuilt again in 1928, the Danish King decided to stay at Amalienborg Palace where the Queen of Denmark also lives today.

Christiansborg Palace instead became the office of the Parliament of Denmark. This means that all the politicians and the Danish Prime minister have their daily routines and offices in a royal palace. I mean, that’s not a bad work environment, am I right?

Even though a lot of history went up in smoke with the 2 fires, you can still visit Christiansborg’s royal reception rooms, royal stables, royal kitchen, Palace chapel and even the ancient ruins of the castle on which Christiansborg Palace was built. It will cost you 175 kr. to see it all or you can enter for free with your Copenhagen Card .

24. Get on a bike

One of the most Copenhagen-like things you can do is to go and explore the city on two wheels.

Copenhagen is one of the biggest bicycle cities in the world. The locals always bike from A to B, so the bike lanes are really good, and the cars are used to looking out for bikes. I honestly feel pretty safe biking around in Copenhagen.

That being said, it can be pretty intimidating for someone who’s never really been bicycling before because of the amount of bicycles in the city. I mean, there are 5 times more bicycles than cars in the city, so you have to share the lane with a ton of other bicycles and give them space.

If you’re used to biking and you feel comfortable enough, then we urge you to go and rent your own bike. If you’re not so comfortable on a bicycle or if you want to combine a bike ride with a sightseeing tour, then you can easily go on a guided bike tour around Copenhagen .

Either way, I hope you get on two wheels because it really is the best and most fun way to see the city.

25. Visit the largest aquarium in Northern Europe

If you love to explore the ocean and everything that lives in it, then one of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to visit Denmark’s National Aquarium named “Den Blå Planet” – literally translated into “The Blue Planet”.

Den Blå Planet is the largest aquarium in Northern Europe with a total of 7 million liters of water and several sea creatures and animals. You can spot sea otters, sharks, stingrays, and even an electric eel!

The aquarium is easy to get to with public transportation . Just take the Metro to “Kastrup”, which is the stop before Copenhagen Airport. From here you just follow the signs to the aquarium – the walk only takes about 5 minutes.

The ticket price ranges between 185-195 kr. for an adult ticket depending on what time of year you visit. Order your tickets online and see the prices for children at Den Blå Planet’s website .

26. Pay your respect at Assistens Cemetery

In the middle of the Nørrebro neighborhood, you’ll find a yellow wall that is several 100 meters long – you won’t miss it. Behind this wall is Copenhagen’s most famous cemetery named “Assistens Kirkegård”.

But it’s not an ordinary cemetery. Within the yellow wall, you’ll find a unique, green space where locals go on walks and enjoy the peace and quiet that you rarely find in a city.

Buried in the cemetery, you’ll find several famous Danish people. Most well-known are the writer and poet H.C. Andersen and the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. But you’ll also find the graves of physicists Niels Bohr and H.C. Ørsted. And you’ll find the grave of beloved, Danish singer Natasja Saad.

A lot of great Danish people were buried in this cemetery – and are still being buried here today. Yet, the cemetery doesn’t have a gloomy feel to it, on the contrary, it’s quite a peaceful and magical place to go for a walk in Copenhagen – it definitely deserved a spot on this list of best things to do.

27. See the art collection at Glyptoteket

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (or “Glyptoteket”) is housing one of Denmark’s most interesting art collections. Here you’ll find pieces that go back thousands of years in history – such as marble statues, paintings, and even mummies!

Glyptoteket came to life when Carl Jacobsen (the founder of Carlsberg Brewery) wanted to share his art collection with the public. He was a passionate art collector and loved to collect pieces that made an impact – art that spoke directly to you.

So in 1897, Carl Jacobsen opened the monumental building “Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek” to the public and displayed his art collection inside. The building and art collection as a whole is very grand and beautiful – and it’s definitely a place that’s recommended a visit.

The building is easy to find. It’s located in the city centre right next to Tivoli. The entrance fee is 125 kr. per adult or it’s free with the Copenhagen Card .

28. Visit the magnificent Marble Church

Right next to Amalienborg Palace, you’ll find a beautiful church – this is Frederik’s Church, also known as “Marmorkirken”, which directly translates into the “Marble Church”.

The church is one of the grandest and most iconic religious buildings in Copenhagen – its big, beautiful copper-green dome can be spotted from many places in the city. In addition to its grandeur, Frederik’s Church also has an interesting history.

King Frederik V laid down the first foundation stone of the church in October 1749. But it would take 145 years until the church was finally finished!

For many years, there was a dispute about the design of the church. Then the main architect died in 1754 before the church was finished. And the King (the man behind the project) passed away shortly after in 1766, so the project eventually came to a complete stop in 1770. Thus, the half-built church was left to become ruins.

However, in 1874, the project was sold to Danish financier and industrialist named Carl Frederik Tietgen, who continued building the church. Some changes in the design was made – and the church was eventually not built in marble. Yet, it’s still named the “Marble Church”.

Frederik’s Church finally opened in 1894, and it’s still open to the public today. So make sure to go by the church when you’re out exploring the best things to do in Copenhagen. It’s free to go inside during its opening hours, although you’ll experience the real beauty of the church by watching it from the outside.

29. Get lost in Copenhagen

One of my absolute favorite things to do in any city is to go get lost – same goes for Copenhagen! So what do I mean with getting lost? I mean that you should just follow your feet and see where they take you. Getting lost is not about not being able to find your way back to the hotel…

There aren’t any unsafe areas to avoid, so it’s really just about going in any direction you feel like.

Some of the best places to visit in Copenhagen are in fact a little bit hidden away from the main tourist spots in the city. For example, walk in the opposite direction of the the main city centre from Nørreport Station and you’ll find the beautiful lakes of Copenhagen. Or, walk away from the city centre and towards Christianshavn and you’ll find the most charming canal in the city.

There are so many opportunities to get off the main tourist trail in Copenhagen! Even in the city centre, you’ll sometimes find a hidden passage, living area or a square that few other tourists are visiting – like Gråbrødre Torv or Nyboder.

30. Watch the sun go down at the lakes

One of the best things to do in Copenhagen during the late hours of the day is to visit the lakes – also known as “Søerne”.

There are 3 lakes located in Copenhagen, which are divided into 5 basins. They stretch from Østerbro Neighborhood all the way to Vesterbro Neighborhood. The lakes are without a doubt one of the most used places in Copenhagen – you’ll always find locals who are out running, walking their babies in strollers, sitting on the benches with a Café Latte or reading a book. This goes on all-year-round.

The lakes are very popular with locals, yet a lot of tourists never make it here.

The best time to visit the lakes are just before sunset when the colors of the sky reflect into the lakes. The sight is so beautiful and peaceful that you forget you’re in a capital city. Glenn and I live close to “Sortedams Sø” – one of the lakes. We absolutely love to go out for an evening walk here, and we really recommend it for any tourist who wants to experience a different side of Copenhagen.

31. Visit the National Gallery of Denmark

An absolute must-do for any art enthusiast is to visit the National Gallery of Denmark.

The National Gallery of Denmark is only located a stone’s throw away from Rosenborg Castle and the Botanical Garden. So make sure to stop by here if you’re already in the area.

In the gallery, you’ll find several permanent exhibitions of Danish and European Art from different time periods such as the Middle Ages, the Enlightenment, and the Modern Times. So it’s safe to say that there is something for everyone in the National Gallery of Denmark.

The gallery is open every day except for Mondays, and an entry ticket costs 120 kr. per adult – or it’s free with the Copenhagen Card .

32. Rent a kayak

One of the most fun things to do in Copenhagen is to rent a kayak and sail around the canals of the city!

You can either go to Kayak Bar in the city center and rent a kayak for about 295 kr. per hour for 2 people, or you can go to Green Kayak, and get yourself a kayak for free if you contribute to collecting waste in the canals of Copenhagen – I absolutely love this initiative!

While Glenn and I haven’t had the chance yet to rent a kayak, it really does look like a lot of fun! And I think it’s a great way to see the city from the canals if you’re not comfortable with a boat or you prefer the thrill of being closer to the ocean.

33. Experience Copenhagen’s nightlife

Are you here for the parties? Copenhagen has an excellent nightlife scene with a big variety in different clubs and bars.

If you want to go clubbing or find a karaoke bar, then you should definitely stay in the city center. There are some streets in particular, which is where you’ll find most bars and clubs. Check out Vestergade and Gothersgade if you’re into the more rowdy places or want to go on a pub crawl.

Go to Nørrebro Neighborhood or the Meatpacking District in Vesterbro if you’re looking for a bit more of a low-key, hipster-type crowd.

Personally, I prefer to just go to a nice bar with a good vibe and spend the evening here. There are many great bars located all over the city, so just go out and try your luck! Or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, then why not join a bar crawl ?

34. Explore Copenhagen’s different Neighborhoods

Copenhagen is so much more than just the city center! Did you for example hear of Østerbro, Nørrebro, Vesterbro, Frederiksberg, Christianshavn, Amager, Ørestad, and Nordhavn? – All different neighborhoods in Copenhagen.

If you really want to experience Copenhagen to the fullest, then one of the best things to do is to visit some of the many different neighborhoods in the city. Here are some examples:

Nørrebro is a popular neighborhood in Copenhagen and it’s known for serving the best kebabs in the city, for its vintage shops and hipster vibes, great food experiences, and of course the beautiful Assistens Cemetery.

Whereas Nordhavn is the complete opposite of Nørrebro – it’s a whole new part of the city by the ocean. In Nordhavn you’ll find new apartment blocks, new restaurants and coffee bars, and it’s one of the most popular places to hang out and go swimming during the summer.

Christianshavn is a really old neighborhood that dates back to 1618 and is named after King Christian IV. Today you’ll find Copenhagen’s coziest canals here, the famous Christiania area, and the best view in Copenhagen from the tower of Our Saviour’s Church.

And that’s just covering 3 neighborhoods. Go check out the rest!

35. Visit the World’s Oldest Amusement Park & Deer Park

While this activity technically isn’t located inside of Copenhagen, I still think it somehow deserves a spot on this list of best things to do in the city.

Less than 20 minutes away with train from Copenhagen, you’ll find “Dyrehaven”. Dyrehaven is basically a forest – but it’s what’s inside of it that counts! In this forest you’ll find the oldest functioning amusement park in the world! The amusement park is named “Bakken” and it’s full of fun rides, rollercoasters, and other activities that belongs in a traditional carnival.

On top of that, the forest surrounding the amusement park is full of deer!

So if you want to experience this unique place just North of Copenhagen, then we urge you to hop on the S-train from Nørreport Station, get off at Klampenborg Station, go for a walk in the forest, and visit the oldest amusement park in the world.

Our top 3 favorite things to do in Copenhagen

Before rounding up this blog post, I want to share our top 3 favorite things to do in Copenhagen. So here they are in no particular order:

• The Tower of Our Saviour for the best view: We absolutely love this place in Copenhagen! From this tower you can without a doubt get the most spectacular view over the city, yet the tower is also historical, beautiful, and quite adventurous to visit.
• Tivoli Gardens during all seasons: Tivoli is one of the most popular places to visit in Copenhagen for both tourists and Danes alike. But there is a good reason for this! Tivoli is both a fun attraction, it’s a historical attraction, it’s really unique, and there is always something happening in here! Tivoli is especially incredible to visit during Christmas and Halloween when the whole place is beautifully decorated.
• Copenhagen by bike: I think that one of our favorite things to do in Copenhagen will always be to just hop on our bikes and get going! We absolutely love to discover the city on our bikes and it’s a great way to quickly get around and explore new neighborhoods. So we really recommend you to get on a bike if you’re comfortable enough with it.

There are still so many places we haven’t discovered yet in Copenhagen, and I cannot wait for this list of best-things-to-do to grow bigger over the years!

Have you visited Copenhagen? If yes, then we’d love to hear your favorite things to see and do here – let us know in the comment section below.

If you haven’t visited Copenhagen yet, then we hope that this blog post gave you some inspiration of what there is to do in this lovely city. See you around in Copenhagen – happy exploring!

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19 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark

Although you won't hear about Copenhagen as often compared to cities like Paris or London , the Danish capital is full of wonderful sights and experiences to treasure. Beyond the traditional tourist sights   –   Tivoli Gardens ,  The Little Mermaid and

• All Things To Do

Nyhavn Nyhavn free

Situated in the central Indre By neighborhood, this bustling area once served as Copenhagen's commercial port. Today, the region features a variety of eateries inside its restored homes, some of which were built in the late 1600s. In fact, a few famous artists and writers formerly lived in Nyhavn, including Heinrich Gustav Ferdinand Holm (a painter and engraver best known for his Copenhagen depictions) and Hans Christian Andersen (who penned fairy tales like "The Little Mermaid" and "The Ugly Duckling").

Previous visitors loved grabbing a drink or bite to eat in Nyhavn, although some cautioned that prices here are high and that it was touristy. Additionally, several raved about the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, which takes place in Nyhavn every July. Many past travelers also recommended signing up for one of the area's canal tours with Stromma Denmark or Netto-Badene . Both operators' tours are available in English, last about an hour and depart daily from Nyhavn. Stromma Danmark's tours cost 129 Danish kroner (roughly $19) for adults and 60 kroner (approximately $9) for kids ages 6 to 15, while Netto-Badene's tours will set you back 8 euros (about $10) per adult and 3 euros (less than $4) for each child.

Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot) Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab a bite at the neighboring Elsinore Street Food Market, where you can enjoy Moroccan tagine, Mexican tacos, Argentinian empanadas and more. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Though you'll have to trek 30 miles north of Copenhagen to reach Kronborg Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed structure in Helsingør can't be missed. Built in 1574, this Renaissance-style castle played a strategic role in Danish politics and commerce thanks to its location by the Sound Dues. The property also famously served as the setting for Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Unique features you'll find here include a 197-foot-long ballroom, a collection of 16th-century tapestries and the casemates, underground passages once used to protect soldiers and horses during wars.

Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot) Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)

Located on Castle Island in Copenhagen's Indre By neighborhood, Christiansborg Palace houses offices for Denmark's queen, Parliament and prime minister. Rebuilt in 1928 after the two former palaces burned down, the current structure sits atop ruins from the original palace. Rooms inside the present-day palace include the Royal Stables, a 19th-century chapel, the Throne Room and a dining hall.

Visitors praise this palace's interesting exhibits and stunning architecture, adding that the property's tower offers breathtaking city vistas. To make the most of your visit, travelers recommend getting a ticket that allows access to all four entry points: the castle, ruins, Royal Kitchen and stables.

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Vesterbro Vesterbro free

U.S. News Insider Tip: When the weather permits, take a swim at Islands Brygge Harbour Bath. This open air swimming spot is popular with both locals and visitors. It's just over the canal from Vesterbro, easily accessible by foot or cycle. - Sarah Lempa

Hip and happening Vesterbro was formerly known as Copenhagen's red light district. Today, visitors can enjoy an eclectic mix of a classy restaurant scene, unique boutiques, buzzy nightlife venues – and a few lingering adult shops and strip bars. Vesterbro's Meatpacking District is notorious for throwing a good party, a place where you'll find everything from chill breweries to thumping clubs, plus a range of cuisine from food stands to fancy eateries with impressively designed dishes. It's a place to see and be seen, where the event calendar is full and the socialites frequent. If you're in the mood to stay out until sunrise, this is the place for you.

Rosenborg Castle Rosenborg Castle

Located west of Frederiksstaden, Rosenborg Castle was constructed during the Dutch Renaissance and completed in 1633 by King Christian IV. Today, visitors can see how the royal lived during that time, including the speaking tubes (the medieval version of intercom systems), the dining halls and the chamber where the king died in 1648. 

A favorite of past visitors was the castle's collection of Danish crown jewels. Many also raved about the property's superb architecture, though some wished there was more information displayed in each exhibit. Others suggested saving time for relaxing in the on-site garden. 

Amalienborg Palace Amalienborg Palace

Right in the heart of Copenhagen lies Amalienborg Palace: a rich piece of Danish history where you can explore the royal grounds and learn about past decades in the on-site Amalienborg Museum. Every day, visitors can witness the changing of the royal guards at noon as they return from the barracks near Rosenborg Castle back to the palace. It's a sight to see, and so is the actual palace. Four ornately designed buildings – Christian VII's Palace, Frederik VIII's Palace, Christian IX's Palace, and Christian VIII's Palace – make up the grounds. In Christian VIII's Palace, you'll find the Amalienborg Museum which allows you to view the interior, more private rooms of the palace.

Amalienborg Palace remains the official residence for Denmark's royal family to this day, which makes it quite an interesting visit – a place where both centuries past and present moment collide. History buffs will particularly adore this attraction, not to mention everyone else who will more than likely enjoy a stroll around the stately grounds. Recent visitors had positive things to say about the changing of the guards, along with the architecture and overall palace presentation.

Copenhagen Walking Tours Copenhagen Walking Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If your legs tire, rent a GoBoat and become the captain of your own canal cruise. I'd highly recommend packing a picnic for the ride with a few friends.– Sarah Lempa

Copenhagen's relatively small size and concentration of noteworthy sights in the central Indre By district make it easy to explore on foot. Available walking tours range from food-focused experiences with tastings to traditional walks that delve into the city's history.

National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet)

The National Museum of Denmark is considered one of Europe's best museums. It presents the broad spectrum of the country's history – from the days of the Vikings to the Danish Renaissance to the welfare state of the late 20th century. The museum's immense collection also includes artifacts from Danish pre-history, Egyptian mummies and coin exhibits from ancient Greece and Rome. It also features a separate children's museum that offers interactive exhibits for little ones, plus other sites throughout Denmark, including the Museum of Danish Resistance, located just north of Amalienborg Palace .

Past travelers described this museum as well-organized and informative, with an impressive amount of artifacts from around the globe. They found it to be well-maintained and easy to navigate.

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Tivoli Gardens Tivoli Gardens

Located just inside Indre By's southwestern boundary – a short walk from  Strøget  – is Tivoli Gardens. First opened in 1843, this property is now one of Europe's most visited theme parks, featuring an assortment of restaurants, theaters and dance halls. Younger children will enjoy the rides, games and shows in Rasmus Klumps World, but there are plenty more attractions for kids of all ages, including a restored roller coaster that was originally built in 1914. When you're not getting your thrills on the rides, stroll through a Chinese-inspired bamboo forest or the Nimb water fountains to admire the marine animals in the aquarium and more. The property also hosts ballets, concerts and other live performances.

Recent visitors said the rides and light installations (which are available every winter) are not to be missed, but some were disappointed with the high prices (rides require extra fees). Others noted that if you plan to visit in winter, do so during Christmastime, as the park and rides close from January to March.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

If you're a fan of art and archaeology, then you'll love perusing Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek's exhibits. Founded in 1888, this museum and research institute houses more than 10,000 pieces, including portrait heads from ancient Greece and 19th-century French sculptures. Famous artists represented here range from post-impressionist painter Paul Gauguin to sculptor Auguste Rodin.

According to past visitors, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek offers an impressive collection that you can easily spend hours viewing. Previous museumgoers also enjoyed grabbing a coffee or bite to eat at the on-site cafe, citing its charming location by the property's Winter Garden as one of the main reasons to return.

Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) free

One of Denmark's most iconic religious sites is the Church of Our Saviour in Christianshavn. Built in the 1680s and opened in 1696, this Palladian-style church was designed by Danish architect Lambert van Haven. Inside, you'll find a carillon with 48 bells, an organ built in 1698 and an altar that depicts a scene from the New Testament. But the church's standout detail is its oak spire. Created by Danish architect Lauritz de Thurah, the impressive spire features an outdoor spiral staircase, gilded iron rails and a gilded statue of Christ on a globe.

Travelers rave about the Church of Our Saviour's architecture, with many saying that the property's biggest draw is the view from its spire. If you want to climb the spire's staircase, time your visit on a calm, sunny day between late February and mid-December, since the spire closes every winter and on windy, snowy or rainy days. Visitors also suggest arriving early to enjoy more elbow room during your climb.

Round Tower (Rundetaarn) Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

Located a few blocks north of  Strøget  in downtown Copenhagen, the Round Tower, completed in 1642, is one of the city's many landmarks built during King Christian IV's reign in the 17th century. Designed as an astronomy observatory, the tower still serves that function in some capacity but is best known for its spectacular city views. The building also features the Library Hall, an exhibition space and event venue.

Visitors say this tower is an architectural marvel, adding that its sunset panoramas are especially breathtaking. But if you're out of shape, some caution that the climb to the top might be a little strenuous.

Botanical Garden - University of Copenhagen Botanical Garden - University of Copenhagen free

Relaxing and well-kept, the Botanical Garden at the University of Copenhagen is a welcoming place of respite in the heart of the city. As a part of the Natural History Museum, it holds the largest collection of living plants in all of Denmark. The Palm House, a Victorian-style building in the center of the garden, houses subtropical and tropical plants. There's also the Butterfly House within Palm House, which lives up to its namesake with butterflies of all types from chrysalis to flying in the air.

The winding paths of the gardens make it a formidable place to take a walk, read a book, or just hang out in the quiet. Well-shaded and lined with plant life of all types, there's always something new to stop and take a look at. Recent viewers praised the calming atmosphere of the garden, urging fellow travelers to take a break from the city life to enjoy some greenery. They raved about visiting on a sunny summer's day, but also encouraged year-round visits to take in the indoor plant life that stays vibrant even in the winter.

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For more than a century, Refshaleøen was merely a shipyard. Nowadays, the former industrial zone is a trendy area home to creative arts, cuisine of all backgrounds, and leisure areas to enjoy the outdoors. Makeover is an understatement – this district has now become a major social area, drawing both locals and travelers. The landmass of Refshaleøen is actually an island just northeast of Copenhagen's city center, jutting out onto the water across from the Langelinie pier.

Stop by Reffen , a well-loved street food market with plenty of options ranging from Danish to Nepalese, Greek, Mexican, and more. Art lovers will delight in Copenhagen Contemporary , a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits. And for the adventurous souls: Copenhagen Cable Park offers an opportunity to try water sports in a safe environment.

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U.S. News Insider Tip: When you're ready for a break from the touristy areas, hang out in Superkilen , a creatively designed park in Nørrebro. With a concrete hill decorated by wavy white lines and plenty of space to hang out, it's worth a visit. - Sarah Lempa

Situated in Indre By between H. C. Andersens Boulevard and King's New Square (to the west and east, respectively), Strøget is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and Copenhagen's largest shopping area. It contains a series of interconnected streets that are lined with numerous boutiques and cafes. You'll find upscale brands like Burberry, Gucci and Louis Vuitton here, so make sure to bring your credit card.

The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) free

One of Copenhagen's most iconic, yet petite, attractions is its Little Mermaid statue. Located just south of Langelinie pier in Østerbro, the statue is based on the fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen. It is made of bronze and granite, and has been a fixture on Copenhagen's waterfront since 1913.

Although some visitors say this statue is a bit underwhelming to see, others recommend making the trek to it, citing its harbor view as its best feature. Tourists regularly flock here, so if you're hoping for a photo op, consider arriving early or late in the day.

ARKEN Museum of Modern Art ARKEN Museum of Modern Art

The ARKEN Museum of Modern Art sits right on the Køge Bay waterfront. This museum is surrounded by shorelines, and offers a tranquil break from the sidewalks and cycling paths of central Copenhagen. Not only is it full of unique exhibitions from both Danish and international artists, the building itself is a work of art. It was designed to mimic a ship, which is fitting considering Ishøj Beach is just steps away. The art exhibitions range from immersive installations to sculpture, video and digital art. Plus, rotating exhibits means there's always something new here.

Travelers loved the combination between modern art and nature, plus the on-site cafe and overall atmosphere of the museum. Many described it as a must-see when in Copenhagen, especially since it's quite easy to get to.

Freetown Christiania Freetown Christiania free

Ever-so intriguing, Freetown Christiania is actually a controversial part of Copenhagen due to its completely different set of rules – resulting from the fact that it's completely independent of the Danish government. Within the hippie community that calls Christiania home, cannabis trade is abundant and accepted. You'll find a list of rules near the district's main entrance on Pusher Street, one of which is a zero-tolerance policy for violence.

The area was formerly a military base, which was abandoned, leading to it sitting empty for many years. In the early 1970s, people began squatting there – resulting in an entire community of around 1,000 with their own rules and regulations separate from the Danish government. Within Christiania's walls, you'll find plenty of creativity, art, community social gatherings, cafes, and restaurants. The buildings are colorful, often adorned with murals and other artwork.

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Kastellet Kastellet free

Copenhagen's citadel, Kastellet, is one of the better preserved fortresses in the northern part of Europe. This star-shaped landmass is easy to spot on the map, commonly inducing curiosity of most who see it online before visiting in person. This 17th century fortress is accompanied by barracks, a church, plus a museum – although walking around the grounds feels like an entire museum visit in and of itself. Between the architecture and the waterfront location, exploring the grounds by foot is the best way to experience Kastellet.

Visitors described Kastellet as even better in person, a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in Copenhagen. On the shoreline, you can also see the famous Den Lille Havfrue – The Little Mermaid sculpture created by Edvard Eriksen.  Just south lies Langelinieparken, an open grassy area right on the waterfront.

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• 20 Unmissable Attractions In Copenhagen

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Copenhagen

Drenched in history and culture, Copenhagen is a striking city with world-class institutions, renowned restaurants and must-visit historic landmarks. Uncover the beauty of this Nordic city with a list of the 20 must-visit attractions in Copenhagen.

1. copenhagen zoo.

Polar bears roaming, lions roaring and chimpanzees swinging – that’s just some of the sights that await you at the Copenhagen Zoo. Home to over 4,000 animals and 264 species, the zoo is also recognised for having the world’s best elephant facilities. Experience Denmark’s largest wildlife sanctuary where you’ll also find an artificial rainforest, African plains, and an icy Arctic enclosure. Great for travellers, you can roam around the zoo without losing much time by using fast track tickets that allows you to skip the queue.

2. Tivoli Gardens

Amusement Park, Park

3. The Black Diamond

Situated in central Copenhagen, the Black Diamond is the extension of the Royal Danish Library. With its imposing exterior that reflects its surrounding landscape, it’s hard to miss this cultural gem designed by the Danish architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen. The Black Diamond has its finger on the pulse as the cultural platform for local and international leaders in their creative fields.

Historical Landmark

Created between 1670 and 1675 as a gateway from the sea to the inner city, Nyhavn was notorious for beer, sailors and prostitution, gaining a reputation as the city’s entertainment district. Now a popular tourist area, it has transformed into a lively space full of restaurants and shops. If you are looking for somewhere to sit back and people-watch during the summer, this is the place. Stop by Bo-Bi Bar just around the corner for a classic bodega vibe, where sailors, politicians and journalists would all rub shoulders in this smoky (and infamous) joint.

6. The Little Mermaid

7. National Museum of Denmark

Museum, School

The 17th-century stock exchange building, Børsen, is located in Christiansborg Palace on the island of Slotsholmen. With its majestic Dutch Renaissance architecture, it’s a recommended stop for architecture and history buffs looking to soak up Danish design. Now the home of the Danish Chamber of Commerce, the building is a prime example of the celebration of Danish design within the commercial and economical Danish landscape.

9. Kastellet

Archaeological site, Museum

With its famous formation in the shape of a Pentagon with bastions at its corners, Kastellet is an example of a fortress at its finest. One of the most celebrated examples in all of Northern Europe, it was once part of the ramparts built to protect the city. These days its a public park that’s popular with families on the weekends.

10. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

The Glyptotek is home to an incredible selection of art and artefacts dating back 6,000 years. Funded by Carlsberg founder J. C. Jacobsen, he also donated his personal art collection to the museum. A prime institution in Denmark, Glyptoteket is an independent institution that has become an important landmark in Copenhagen.

11. Christiansborg Palace

12. Copenhagen Opera House

Opera House, Church

13. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Museum, Park

If there is one must-visit place in Copenhagen, it’s Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, the home of modern Danish and international artworks. Located 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of Copenhagen, the institution is home to over 3,500 pieces of art, including a permanent collection by the likes of Calder and Giacometti. The museum is also home to a sculpture park that features 60 different sculptures.

14. Tycho Brahe Planetarium

15. Blue Planet

With over 400 species living within 7 million litres of water, the Blue Planet offers an exciting underwater experience in Northern Europe’s largest aquarium. Home to the brown-banded bamboo shark, the Atlantic goliath grouper and the redbelly yellowtail fusilier, the aquarium is a great place to visit if you’re looking to encounter unique sea creatures. While there, you’ll get to meet the big five: sea otters, hammerhead sharks, arapaima, giant Pacific octopuses and stingrays; watch the animals get fed and learn about the ocean.

16. The Round Tower

Designed to continue the pioneering research of the astronomer Tycho Brahe, the Round Tower offers stunning views of Copenhagen. If your knees are in good shape, walk up its notable 200 metres spiral ramp that takes you to the top. The 17th-century observation tower was completed in 1642 and has become one of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions.

17. Amalienborg Palace

18. Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden

Located off the busy streets of central Copenhagen, the Botanical Gardens oozes with serenity. Twenty-seven glasshouses can be found here, one being the 16-metre-tall (50-foot-tall) Palm House, which houses more than 13,000 species, with 600 of them being of Danish origin.

19. Rosenborg Castle

20. Copenhagen City Hall

If you have 30 minutes to spare, look no further than the City Hall tour that gives you insight into Danish history, including the story behind the Lord Mayor and council’s headquarters. If history isn’t your bag, at least enjoy the incredible views of Tivoli Gardens and see Jens Olsen’s World Clock – an advanced astronomical design.

This article is an updated version of a story created by Aliki Seferou .

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Home » Europe » Denmark » Copenhagen

16 BEST Places to Visit in Copenhagen (2024)

As soon as you step foot in Copenhagen, you’ll see immediately why it’s considered the happiest city in the world.

Maybe it’s the plethora of outdoor spaces where people can soak in the fresh air and spend time in the lakes, mountains, and parks. Perhaps it’s the historical landmarks, like the royal castles and stone fortresses that give character to the tree-lined city streets. Or, it’s merely the laid-back atmosphere and sense of contentment that you see on faces of the locals.

Whatever it is, Copenhagen is doing it right. Danes are some of the happiest people in the world – and why would they not be? They live in a city that is overflowing with activities day and night while also remaining peaceful and cozy. And if you’re planning a trip to Copenhagen, you’re making a smart decision! During your visit to this prosperous city, you too can experience life in Copenhagen like a local.

With our curated list of places to visit in Copenhagen, you can explore what the Danish lifestyle is all about. Wander through thousands of years of history, shop for the trendiest souvenirs, and dine on some of the best dishes in Northern Europe. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or staying for the whole summer, you’ll love spending time here in Copenhagen!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Copenhagen:

These are the best places to visit in copenhagen, faq on the best places to visit in copenhagen.

Indre By is the historic centre of Copenhagen. The Danish capital’s “Inner City,” Indre By is home to a maze of cobblestone streets, charming squares and wonderful museums.

• Shop until you drop on Strøget, a lively pedestrian street that’s home to everything from high-end designers to high street fashions.
• Explore the country’s rich history at the National Museum of Denmark.
• Dine on creative and delicious Copenhagen cuisine at Restaurant Krebsegaarden.

Before you take a tour down this list and soak up all the happy chemicals this city has to offer, check out where to stay in Copenhagen first. That way, you’ll have a place to stay and relax at the end of your days exploring all lined up next to your favourite attractions.

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#1 – Tivoli Gardens – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Copenhagen!

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• Tivoli gardens is the second oldest theme park in the world
• Rides, events, and shows make it one of the top attractions in Copenhagen
• Fun for kids and adults of all ages
• Tivoli gardens was the inspiration for Disneyland

Why it’s awesome: Filled with excitement and adventure around every corner, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens is thrilling amusement for the whole family. Built in 1843, it’s the world’s second-oldest amusement park. And with 4.6 million visitors each year, Tivoli Gardens is the go-to destination in Europe for rides, concerts, games, and good old fashion fair food. It even served as the inspiration and model for Walt Disney’s Disneyland!

What to do there: We hope you’re ready for an action-packed day, because there are plenty of activities to do in Tivoli Gardens. There are dozens of rides for adults and kids, but nothing as thrilling as Rutschebanen, and the 1914 wooden roller coaster. But besides rides, visitors can also watch free pantomime shows, listen to live music and wander through the on-site aquarium.

Tivoli Gardens also hosts a variety of events and concerts, including ballet shows, jazz festivals, and even marching band performances.

Some of Copenhagen’s loveliest Airbnbs are located close by to Tivoli Gardens too!

#2 – Strøget

• One of the longest and most influential pedestrian shopping malls
• Shops, boutiques, and stores galore in the heart of Old Town.
• Tons of restaurants and cafes in old town hall square.
• Central to Copenhagen’s main attractions

Why it’s awesome: Copenhagen’s most popular shopping destination runs down Strøget. Running over 1.1km through the city centre, it’s one of the largest pedestrianised malls around! Here, you’ll find a wealth of shops, especially high-end luxury brands. But most impressively, Strøget’s pedestrianisation in 1962 was influential to Copenhagen’s culture and led to further pedestrian-only access around the Old Town. This concept spread beyond Copenhagen! Pedestrian and bicycle-only access is an approach that has been adopted around the world.

What to do there: If you’re on a budget as Copenhagen can be expensive , then you’re best to window shop in this area. If you have deep pockets, you’ll have plenty of options to spend that money on; from international clothing brands to Danish design pop-ups, but that’s not all! There are tons of restaurants, bars, and cafes where you need a quick bite to eat. It’s right in the heart of central Copenhagen so it’s easy to visit.

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#3 – Nyhavn – A beautiful and scenic place to see in Copenhagen!

• 17th-century neighbourhood in the heart of Old Town.
• Vibrant, colourful homes and antique wooden boats in central Copenhagen.
• Somewhere you’ve got to see when you visit Copenhagen
• See the home of Hans Christian Andersen

Why it’s awesome: You’ll feel as if you’ve transported back to the 17th century when you stroll through the waterfront district of Nyhavn. Lined with brightly coloured houses and shops, Nyhavn is a laid-back destination for an afternoon visit and one of the top things to do in Copenhagen . It’s one of the city’s iconic sights for a reason and a real focal point for visitors.

You can still spot the old wooden ships bobbing in the harbour, many of which were built between the 1800s and 1900s. Whether you’re coming to walk the canal promenade, or stopping by after visiting the Veteran Ship Museum, you’ll enjoy a few hours in the quaint Nyhavn neighbourhood!

What to do there: Grab a cup of coffee or a mid-morning brunch at one of the charming cafes in the area. You might be able to snag a window seat with harbour views! But if you can’t, you should still stroll through the waterfront admiring the old wooden ships that still float in the canal. It’s a real highlight of any Copenhagen sightseeing trip! You can even take a canal tour if you like!

Don’t forget to stop by the houses marked 18, 20 and 67. There were the different residences of author Hans Christian Andersen from 1845 and 1864. Try to visit early as it’s one of the top attractions in Copenhagen and get busy!

#4 – Nationalmuseet (National Museum of Denmark)

• Located near Strøget street
• Explore 14,000 years of Danish History
• Exhibits on international archeology and art as well
• Learn about Viking history

Why it’s awesome: Filled with artefacts, items, and documents, the National Museum of Denmark will take you through centuries of Danish history. Fourteen thousand years of history to be exact! Dedicated to the natural science, conservation, and archaeology of the country, you could easily spend an entire day wandering through these fascinating exhibitions and rooms.

What to do there: Explore ancient relics from the Viking and Ice Age, admire religious artwork from the middle ages, and learn about the Danish daily life of today. But Danish history isn’t the only thing on display in the museum.

There is also an extensive collection of Greek, Italian, Egyptian, and Near East objects. The highlight of the museum is the Golden Horns, where are reconstructed sculptures modelled after the 400AD Iron Age horns that were excavated. And don’t miss the Chariot of the Sun, a bronze-age disc that depicts the sun being pulled across the sky by a chariot horse.

#5 – Copenhagen Botanical Garden – One of the nicer places in Copenhagen to site see!

• Over 13,000 species of plants
• 27 glasshouses – some are from the mid-1800s
• orchids, cacti, medicinal, and rose plants
• Visit the on-site seed bank

Why it’s awesome: Covering 10 hectares, the Copenhagen Botanical Garden is a blissful escape from the bustling metropolis of the city. Maybe you’re a fan of botany, or perhaps you simply like to walk around a blooming garden. But either way, you’ll love admiring the lush, vibrant in the Copenhagen Botanical Garden. And besides flowers, the garden is known for its historical glasshouses, many of which date back almost 200 years! And best of all, the garden is entirely free to enter and visit.

What to do there: With over 13,000 species of plants, flowers, and trees, the Copenhagen Botanical Garden has something blooming around every corner. The garden is divided into different sections and includes exhibits on Danish plants, perennial plants, and annual plants. But besides the plants, the garden is also home to 27 gorgeous glasshouses.

Visit the Palm House, which at 3,000 square meters large, contains a variety of exotic plants. And, don’t miss visits to the air-conditioned glasshouse, which re-creates a suitable temperature for arctic species, and the cacti and succulent glasshouse.

#6 – Rosenborg Castle

• 17th-century Renaissance castle
• Built by Christian IV
• See royal artefacts like thrones, gemstones, and silver
• Walk the beautiful outdoor gardens

Why it’s awesome: For a taste of luxury, stop by Rosenborg Castle, one of the most famous places to visit in Copenhagen. Built-in the 1600s as Christian IV’s summer palace, the castle is now a stunning example of Dutch Renaissance architecture. While the stone exterior of the building is a sight to see on its own, it’s what lies inside that is truly memorising.

What to do there: As you tour the castle, there are several distinct places that you cannot miss. First is the long hall, which was initially used as a ballroom and royal reception room. At the end of the hall is the regal, coronation chair, where many of the country’s kings and queens would sit and reign. A visit to the castle also includes entrance to the Rosenborg Collections, a museum of artefacts and objects from Danish royal history.

Many of the items belonged to the kings and queens themselves, including 17th-century Venetian glass, dinnerware, and even the crown jewels! Afterwards, you can rest in the Rosenborg Castle Gardens, Denmark’s largest and oldest garden. Even though the Danish royal family no longer live here, you’ll still feel the stately vibes from this popular tourist attraction.

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#7 – Superkilen Park – Quite the quirky place in Copenhagen!

• Urban park development
• Ethnically and culturally diverse park
• Walk a brightly paved pink path!
• Have a BBQ or meet with friends in the Black Market

Why it’s awesome: Step inside a world of urban, artistic development by visiting Superkilen Park in the diverse Nørrebro neighbourhood. Spanning 30,000 square meters, Superkilen is comprised of three different areas, each one representing a different theme and colour. But besides the large-scale designs, the park is filled with foreign influence. The benches, street lamps, fountains, and even signs have been collected from over 50 different countries.

What to do there: Depending on what outdoor activities spark your interest, there are a ton of things to do in the artistic centre of Superkilen. First, you have the red square, most notable for its shockingly neon pink public walkway. Next is The Green Park, a lush park filled with rolling hills and picnic areas. Finally, there is the Black Market, an area made with dark, black asphalt and most commonly used as the public gathering centre of Superkilen.

And while you walk through the three colourful regions, you’ll be able to pick out the different artefacts that were curated from dozens of different countries. Try and find the English trash bins, the Moroccan water fountains, and the French utility hole covers!

#8 – Freetown Christiania

• Liberal and progressive lifestyle
• Yoga and meditation studios
• Open Marijuana shops
• One of the most unique places!

Why it’s awesome: For one of the most unusual things to put on your Copenhagen itinerary , venture over to the small commune of Freetown Christiania. Created within a deserted 1970s military zone, Freetown Christiania is now home to around 850 residents and is a symbol of a progressive and liberal Danish lifestyle. Meditation, farming, and yoga are just a few of Freetown Christiania’s favourite activities. The locals have even created their own set of rules (separate from the federal governments)!

What to do there: One of the main attractions for tourists in Freetown Christiania is Pusher Street. Here, hash and marijuana are sold from many shop stalls and stands. And while weed is not technically legal, marijuana sales have been openly allowed by the Danish Government for the past 15 years. As the fourth most popular attraction in Copenhagen, Freetown Christiania is a slice of alternative, liberal, and laid-back paradise that cannot be found anywhere else in the world! This is a must for backpacking Copenhagen .

#9 – Bakken Amusement Park – Awesome place to visit in Copenhagen with kids!

• The oldest amusement park in the entire world!
• Started as a destination for clean water in the 1500s
• Dozens of rides and roller coasters
• Completely free to enter.

Why it’s awesome: Often overlooked for the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, Bakken Amusement Park is still overflowing with thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and mouth-watering snacks. And at 550 years old, it’s the oldest amusement park in the entire world! Back then, the grounds were discovered and made famous for their fresh spring water source. Inevitably, this attracted large crowds and soon, entertainers and shopkeepers. And over time, Bakken became a popular spot for cabaret shows, circuses, and theme park rides. Now, it’s a bustling attraction that is entirely free to enter!

What to do there: If you’re looking for an exciting day of fun, then Bakken Amusement Park is for you! There are six large-scale roller coasters, several dozen carnival rides, and a handful of live shows. But don’t skip a ride on the Rutschebanen, a 1932 wooden rollercoaster that’s guaranteed to make your heart race! And when you get hungry, you’ll have a variety of dining choices, from classic street food stalls to upscale buffets and gourmet restaurants.

#10 – Rundetårn (Round Tower)

• 17th century observation tower in town hall square.
• Built without stairs – only a winding ramp to the top
• Sweeping views from the observation deck
• On-site observatory in a central location

Why it’s awesome: Have you ever climbed all the way to the top of a tall tower…without using the stairs? Well, you can during your visit to the historic Rundetårn! Directly translated to the round tower, the Rundetårn was built by Christian IV in the 17th-century and remained one of Copenhagen’s most unusual landmarks.

Standing 34-meters high, the top of the Rundetårn can be reached by a long spiral ramp that winds through the centre of the tower. While stairs may seem like the more practical option, the choice for a ramp is relatively straightforward. It made bringing heavy and fragile equipment to the top of the tower easier! It’s a really unique and interesting place to see when you visit Copenhagen.

What to do there: If you’re willing to walk the 210-meter spiralling ramp to the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city from the observation deck. The deck sits high above the rooftops of the city, which means you’ll have unparalleled views of Rosenborg Castle, the Marble Church, Christiansborg Palace, and Copenhagen City Hall and town hall square. You may even be able to spot the hostel you are staying in !

The Rundetårn is also the site of an observatory, where budding astronomers and general visitors can gaze into the bright, starry night sky. It’s one of the top attractions in Copenhagen for views.

#11 – Church of our Saviour – One of Copenhagen’s coolest historical sites!

• Winding gold and black spire
• A stunning, ornate altarpiece
• 1920s concert Carillion
• Voted best views in all of Copenhagen!

Why it’s awesome: With its golden spire and singing bell tower, the Church of our Saviour is an impressive Dutch Baroque church from the 16th and 17th-centuries. Marked by its vibrant, red and yellow tiles and towering helix spire, it’s one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the entire city. And most importantly, the views from the top of the spire are outstanding, and were even voted the best views in all of Copenhagen by local residents!

What to do there: Admiring the church and spire from the outside is a must. The external, winding staircase that leads to 90-meters to the top is ornately decorated in a black and gold coat of paint. The church is also known for its Carillion, or bell towers, which is the most extensive system in all of Northern Europe. And on the inside, the altarpiece is also a beautiful masterpiece. The rose, gold, and blue curves depict a scene from the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus is being comforted by several, large marble angels.

#12 – Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

• Sculpture art museum
• Antique and modern exhibits
• Come to a classical concert day!
• Thousands of paintings as well

Why it’s awesome: Art lovers will enjoy a relaxing visit to Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum with some of the most impressive sculptures and statues in the country. With over 10,000 works of art, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek contains Egyptian, Greek, Roman, French, and Danish sculpture exhibits. And if you happen to visit during an event day, you’ll have the opportunity to see the auditorium, which is often used for classical concerts and performances.

What to do there: As you explore the gardens and rooms in the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, you can’t miss the following fan favourites. The Hall of Roman figures depicts larger than life Roman gods and emperors. The Egyptian collection contains 2,000 pieces of ancient artefacts, like mummies! And while the main focus of the museum is on the sculptures, there is also an extensive painting collection. You’ll find French Impressionist, Danish Golden Age, and Post-Impressionist pieces in the museum.

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#13 – Amager Strandpark – One of the most underrated places to see in Copenhagen!

• Located on the artificial Amager Island
• Outdoor activities for the whole family
• Kayaking, swimming, picnicking, skateboarding
• On-site swimming pool

Why it’s awesome: When you need a break from the city centre, head to Amager Strandpark, Copenhagen’s blissful beach! Located on the artificial island of Amager, this 2-kilometre long beach park is full of fun, outdoor activities. One side of the island is scattered with white, sandy dunes, and is the perfect spot for relaxing or sunbathing. The other side is a shallow lagoon, where you’ll find plenty of families and leisurely swimmings enjoying the warm waters. Just be prepared for the water to be a little chilly. After all, you are in Denmark!

What to do there: There are tons of fun activities to participate in on Amager Strandpark. It’s the perfect destination for running and walking, as several trails lead around the island. You’ll also find kitesurfers and kayakers in the water, cruising around the lagoons in the early spring and summer. And when the heat sets in, you can take a dip in the water. The shallow pools and waves make it an ideal spot for families and swimmers!

Wonder how to spend your weekend in Copenhagen? Head over to our insider’s Weekend in Copenhagen guide!

#14 – Carlsberg Brewery – Cool place to see in Copenhagen with friends!

• Headquarters for Carlsberg beer
• Take a guided tour or eat at the restaurant
• Visit the beautiful sculpture garden
• Try Carlsberg beer, straight from the tap!

Why it’s awesome: While Copenhagen might not be known for its beer, the city is still home to one of the most popular breweries in the world. At Carlsberg Brewery, you can explore the headquarters and first location of this detectible Danish brewing company. Founded in 1847, the brewery produces the classic pilsner, a special brew strong lager, and even an Elephant beer! If you’re a beer fanatic, or simply craving something refreshing during your trip to Copenhagen, don’t forget to visit the Carlsberg Brewery!

What to do there: To really see the workings of a real brewery, try to score tickets with a guided tour. Here, you can learn about the history of the beer and even enjoy a few samples at the end! The brewery is also home to the largest unopened beer collection in the world, with 22,000 bottles stacked from floor to ceiling. And when you feel like venturing outside, you can walk through the on-site sculpture garden, which displays some of .C. Jacobson’s (Carlberg’s founder) private art collection, and the stable, home to several furry and friendly Carlsberg horses!

#15 – Torvehallerne Market – A must-see for foodies!

• Dozens of delicious food stalls and booths
• Try local Danish dishes
• Shop for culinary souvenirs
• Sample fresh produce and locally sourced ingredients

Why it’s awesome: No vacation would be complete without sampling some of the local and delicious delicacies! At Torvehallerne Market, you can find all sorts of Danish and international specialities. Situated inside two large, glass halls, the market is the perfect destination for a late-morning breakfast or brunch. There are over 60 different stalls serving everything from fresh produce and aromatic spices to juicy meats and gourmet desserts.

What to do there: Come hungry, because you’ll want to eat, eat, eat at Torvehallerne Market! For those who are eager to sample some Danish cuisine, try an open-faced smørrebrød sandwich with your favourite deli toppings. Or, taste the fresh and crispy fried fiskefrikadelle, or fish cake. And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, you can pick it up at Tovehallerne Market. They sell packable chocolates, teas, wines, and spices to take back home!

#16 – Copenhagen Opera House

• National opera house of Denmark
• Located opposite the main castle Amalienborg
• Buy tickets for an upcoming concert
• Explore the surrounding areas

Why it’s awesome: Nestled right on the banks of Holmen Island, the Copenhagen Opera House is one of the most famous places to see in Copenhagen. Not only is the modern architecture equipped with the latest theatrical advancements, but it’s also one of the most expensive theatres in the world, costing over $500 million to build. With one main stage and five smaller auditoriums, it can seat up to 1,700 guests and aims to provide world-class views from every angle in the house.

What to do there: The best way to see the opera house is by watching a performance or show from the audience. Whether you’re listening to a symphonic concert or watching a live ballet performance, you’ll be able to see the magic of the theatre how they were meant to be seen. But if you are in Copenhagen during the off-season, don’t worry! You can still book a tour of the auditoriums and even the backstage rooms of the opera house!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Copenhagen

What is Copenhagen best known for?

Copenhagen is known for its canals and being home to Hans C. Andersen. It’s also one of the happiest cities in the world and looks like a fairytale town.

What places to visit in Copenhagen should you not miss?

Tivoli Gardens, Nationalmuseet and Rosenborg Castle are three places you should defintely make sure you visit in Copenhagen.

Is two days enough time to see Copenhagen?

Because Copenhagen is a small walking city, I would say that two days is enough to see all the main attractions. However, you could easily spend more time there and not get bored.

Is Copenhagen worth visiting?

Copenhagen is not a big city but it is cute and unique, which is why I would consider it worth a visit.

We hope this list gives you an overview of what amazing things there are to see and do in Copenhagen. From the second you hop off the plane, you’ll have a variety of activities and experiences at your fingertips! Although Copenhagen is safe (and you follow additional safety guidelines recommended for travellers !) there is a danger of overspending here. We want you to be aware that the city isn’t the cheapest, especially if you don’t plan ahead and set up the right travel budget.

History and architecture buffs can explore the historic landmarks and even a Royal Palace or two scattered throughout the city. Art lovers will enjoy the vast variety of museums, from ancient paintings to contemporary sculptures. And outdoor enthusiasts will love the lush, green parks and gardens where they can escape the bustle of city life.

But most of all, we hope you get the opportunity to live a bit more like the locals in Denmark when you’re exploring the amazing Copenhagen sights. With a passion for culture, and thirst for travel, and a friendly, open mind, you too can be as happy as the people of Denmark!

Christina Grayt

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Home » Destinations » Europe » Denmark » Copenhagen Attractions: Our 19 Favourite Things to Do and See

Copenhagen Attractions: Our 19 Favourite Things to Do and See

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These Are Some Of The Best Copenhagen Attractions!

Oh, Copenhagen – a city that will forever hold a place in our hearts! The Danish capital is a fantastic city to explore regardless of what you are interested in seeing. 

There are plenty of things to do in Copenhagen regardless of the season or your budget – day or night! Yes, you can find great things to do in Copenhagen even in winter! 

Of course, we may have a slight positive bias. Eric originally visited Copenhagen in the winter and still had a great time.

Lisa lived in Copenhagen for 3 years during her time in university. Between the two of us, we’ve covered most of the free attractions in Copenhagen and even some of the paid ones.

In all seriousness, Copenhagen is an energetic city alive with locals and tourists alike. What other city has mermaids and the very real reality that you might get run over by a bicycle? Not many.

From the well-known attractions like Nyhavn Harbour and Tivoli Gardens to the lesser-known and unique things to do in Copenhagen like visiting Christiania, here are some of the best attractions in Copenhagen!

Table of Contents

Top Copenhagen Attractions

Okay, so here’s the piece you’ve been waiting for – the top attractions in Copenhagen. These are in no particular order – but we did put Nyhavn at the top!

If you know what things to do you are looking for, you might even get started for with booking line skip tickets to Tivoli Gardens or your flat boat cruise tickets below since the summer season can be busy!

⇒ Copenhagen: 1-Hour Canal Cruise – See the City from the Classic Flat Boat (Eric loved this!) ⇒ Copenhagen City Card (including Transportation) – Visit Top Attractions + Navigate the City for Cheaper! ⇒ Copenhagen Tivoli Gardens 1-Day Unlimited Rides Ticket – Enjoy Tivoli Gardens – and all the Best Rides!

Nyhavn Harbour

Yes, we decided to start with the heavy hitter and get it out of the way first. Nyhavn is one of the main tourist attractions in Copenhagen – and for good reason!

The harbour was finished in 1673 and believe it or not, it was originally a strictly commercial port. The colourful houses that we see today were only built in the 18th and 19th century. As such, there’s a ton of history surrounding the harbour.

Hans Christian Andersen, a famous Danish author we will talk about in the next section, actually lived in some of the houses.

For today’s visitors, there are lots of cafés and restaurants but they tend to be a tad pricey. Our advice is to just enjoy a drink and the hustle and bustle of the harbour.

Address: Nyhavn, København, Denmark

⇒ Explore Copenhagen and Learn About the City on a 2-Hour Copenhagen Local Walking Tour

The Little Mermaid

If you’ve spoken to anyone who has visited Copenhagen, they will probably tell you to go and see the Little Mermaid.

Of course, they are referring to the famous statue that sits along Copenhagen Harbour to commemorate the character once written about by Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen.

This bronze and granite statue is perched on a rock on the west bank a little walk north of Nyhavn Harbour. You can usually find her by looking for the crowd of people standing on a sidewalk seeming to peer into the harbour at nothing!

Get closer and you’ll see her sitting there. Be sure to grab a photo – she’s over 100 years old!

Address: Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark

Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is located on the corner of Konges Have (“King’s Garden”) which we’ll mention again further down.

The castle was built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century (1606), but the original intention was that it was to serve as a summer house.

Today, visitors can buy a ticket and go inside – just make sure to check the opening times beforehand! Inside the Castle, you’ll find Denmark’s crown jewels.

Another highlight is the Knights’ Hall in which you can see the coronation thrones and three silver lions that are standing guard. Did we mention that these lions are life-sized?! Here’s more information about Rosenborg Castle .

Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København, Denmark

Read Next – The Best Nordic Capital to Visit (+ Activities)

Strøget Shopping Street

As one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, Strøget is a great way to see the heart and soul of Copenhagen lifestyle.

The street is over 1.1 kilometres – and lined with lots of different shops that range from the cheaper chain stores to the really expensive brand you’d expect to see. There are even a few local additions that are worth checking out!

For orientation, you can find the Copenhagen City Hall at the south end and the Kogens Nytorv Square with the Royal Danish Theatre and Nyhavn Harbour at the North end.

Address: Strøget, København, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park

Under the whimsical lights, this amusement park is very famous to the Danes and all Copenhagen visitors. Tivoli first opened on August 15, 1843 – making it really, really old.

It’s like walking into a time capsule! Fun Fact: Tivoli is the second oldest operating amusement park in the world. Thanks for taking the crown away, Bakken!

In Tivoli, you can ride the wooden roller coaster from 1914. It’s one of only seven roller coasters in the world that still has a brakeman on board! Because of the rich history, Tivoli is the most-visited theme park in all of Scandinavia.

We recommend visiting in the evening as the park is all lit up from the lights in the trees and on the rides. It’s like another world.

To learn more about Tivoli, you can check out the website . When you want to visit Tivoli during the main tourist season, definitely  consider getting a Tivoli line skip ticket .

Address: Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V, Denmark

Frederiks Kirken – The Marble Church

The green dome makes this landmark hard to miss! Frederiks Kirken, or “The Marble Church” is located to the west of Amalienborg Palace.

The church counts as one of the most impressive churches in Copenhagen and we can absolutely understand why: it’s beautiful inside!

While the foundation stone was laid in 1749, the church wasn’t officially inaugurated until 1894! For today’s visitors, the church is open to the public every day and the dome can be visited at 1 pm and 3 pm every day during the summer months (and at the same hours on the weekend during the winter).

To learn more about visiting times, check out this post from Visit Copenhagen .

Address: Frederiksgade 4, 1265 København, Denmark

Built back in the 17th century, the “Round Tower”, as it’s called in English is definitely a sight to see – and climb! After you pay admission, you’ll walk upward on a spiral ramp up and up and up until you reach the top.

Exit the door and you’ll be greeted by 360-degree views of Copenhagen from well within the city. Don’t worry, the edge of the observation deck is surrounded by a strong iron fence that will keep you safe to take your photos and enjoy the view!

You can also choose to visit the observatory – which is the oldest functioning observatory dome in Europe.

They have added a new glass floor so visitors can see the core structure of the tower. Pretty neat if you ask us! To read about opening hours and prices, you can check out the official website here .

Address: Købmagergade 52A, 1150 København, Denmark

Kongens Have

Welcome to the oldest and most visited park in central Copenhagen! Kongens Have or “The King’s Garden” is the beautiful grassy area closer to Nørreport Station. We mentioned Rosenborg Castle above in this post, which is situated within the park.

The park is a great place to walk through, or grab a blanket and enjoy a picnic. On a very sunny day, you’ll find locals sharing food, playing games, having drinks, you name it!

We once bought a whole pizza and had drinks under the sun and it was the best afternoon EVER. It’s no wonder Denmark is considered one of the (if not the) Happiest Countries on the Planet.

If you want to learn about “hygge”, a term used to describe the Danish culture of “togetherness” – then take a tour to experience Danish culture with a local and see for yourself!

Christiansborg Palace

Technically located on the tiny island of Slotsholmen (it doesn’t feel like an island), Christiansborg Palace is where the Royal Danish family carries out official duties.

The Palace is also a multi-function place – containing the Danish Parliament Folketinget, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State.

The grounds are huge and you can buy tickets for tours of different royal areas. The highlight for us is the tower which offers 360-degree views of Copenhagen. You can even see Malmö, Sweden from up there!

The tower entrance is free – however, the can often be a line up to head up to the viewing tower as the elevator is quite small.

There’s also a restaurant up there which you can make a reservation for. We’ve seen many beautiful sunsets from up there. To learn more about the Palace, check out the official website .

Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København, Denmark

Amalienborg Palace + The Guard Change

As the official residence of the Royal Family, Amalienborg Palace consists of four identical buildings and a large courtyard that features the equestrian statue of Amalienborg’s founder, King Frederik V.

Inside the Palace, history buffs can visit the museum that showcases centuries of Danish history.

Amalienborg is probably best known to visitors for the daily “changing of the guard”. Each day at 12:00 noon, the Danish Royal Guards (called Den Kongelige Livgarde) march from the barracks near Rosenborg Castle all the way to the courtyard.

To learn more about visiting hours and logistics, visit the website !

Address: Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 København K, Denmark

The Castell (Kastellet)

Did you want to see one of the best-preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe? Oh good, because Copenhagen has that, too.

These days, the Kastellet serves as a park and historical site. Back in the day, however, the Kastellet was a key piece of the fortification of the Danish Capital.

The grounds are free to roam and offer visitors sights like the church, windmill, and smaller historic military buildings. We’ve explored the grounds and walked up on top of the high outer perimeter.

You get quite the perspective from up there! Go check out the citadel – you won’t be disappointed! Learn more about it here .

Address: Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, 2100 København, Denmark

Copenhagen City Hall + Square

Completed in 1905, Copenhagen City Hall is the official seat of the Lord Mayor of Copenhagen. It was done in a Romantic style and was actually made to resemble the city hall in Siena, Italy (which Eric has seen in person and honestly – he can see the resemblance)!

While you can tour the historic city hall freely during opening hours, the top attraction for visitors to Copenhagen is the tower!

City Hall Tower – standing at over 105 metres – is among the tallest towers in the whole of Copenhagen. You do need to be taken up there by a guide so it’s best to plan ahead.

There are about 300 steps to the top for great views of the inner city of Copenhagen. Here’s more information about guided tours and visiting City Hall Tower !

As for the square in front, City Hall Square i s popular  for exhibits, public gatherings, and it’s the start/end of the famous shopping street Strøget.

At night, it’s a beautiful place to wander through to see the lights to get a sense of the city at night.

Address: Rådhuspladsen 1, 1599 København, Denmark

The Copenhagen Food Markets

One of the things Copenhagen is known for is its cuisine. The Danes have a few classics like smørrebrød – which is the open-faced sandwich topped with various meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads.

While there are great places to eat all over the city, the food markets are definitely worth seeing. To our knowledge, there’s three you should check out:

Torvehallerne – located behind Nørreport Station, this food market is encased in glass and looks beautiful from the inside and out!

Inside, you’ll find shops and stalls selling fresh fish and meats, to cheeses, gourmet sliders, fresh bread, etc. If you’re looking for lunch or looking for groceries, you’ll find them here.

Address: Frederiksborggade 21, 1362 København, Denmark

Reffen –  a massive indoor/outdoor food market on another small island and warehouse complex (the same spot where Papirøen was located in the past). You will definitely find us there when we are back in Copenhagen. You can read more about Reffen here.

Address of Reffen: Refshalevej 167A, 1432 København K

And if you want to learn more about (and eat!) amazing Danish food, you can go on a  guided food tour around Copenhagen !

The National Museum of Denmark

If you’re into museums, you can visit the National Museum of Denmark. Home to the exhibit of Danish cultural history. Open Tuesdays to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the museum offers visitors a wide range of Danish exhibits from the Bronze Age until today.

The Museum also has exhibits from other timelines and regions around the globe. There’s even a restaurant if you get hungry looking at all that history! Find out more about the National Museum of Denmark here .

Address: Prince’s Mansion, Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 København K, Denmark

Vor Frelsers Kirke

Located in the east end of the city centre in the Christianshavn district of Copenhagen, you’ll find a spiral tower rising up from the buildings below. Go climb it!

The baroque-style church of Vor Frelsers Kirke serves as an active parish for over 8,000 people. The oak spiral tower on top is what draws many visitors!

While the church was built in the 1680s, the spiral spire wasn’t completed until at least 50 years later.

The view is one of the best from within the city – but the climb up in the strong winds can be a little scary! To check out the church, visit their website .

Address: Sankt Annæ Gade 29, 1416 København, Denmark

Dyrehavsbakken

Want to visit the oldest amusement park in the world? You can do exactly that if you’re in Copenhagen! Dyrehavsbakken, also known as “Bakken” is a fantastic wooded park area and amusement park north of the Copenhagen City Centre. Just take the S-train towards Klampenborg.

As we mentioned above, Bakken is old. How old? Well, the park was officially opened in 1583 making it the oldest operational park in the world.

They feature dozens of attractions – including a wooden roller coaster that was built in 1932. Bakken is good fun for the whole family and makes a great day or half-day trip from the city centre. Here’s all the information you’d need to visit Bakken !

Address: Dyrehavevej 62, 2930 Klampenborg, Denmark

A Harbour Tour on a Flat Boat

Since Copenhagen is a port city, the water plays a huge part in the city’s vibe. This means that you should go explore the city from the water’s perspective!

There are many companies and boats you can take to tour the canals and the harbour. Some of the larger flat bottom boats are completely open air while some have a glass covered dome for the winter time.

Eric visited in February but was too excited to sit under the glass and so he sat in the uncovered section of the glass boat. There’s a reason Copenhagen is one of our favourite European cities to see in the winter !

He says it was worth every second to take in the cold sea air! You can book the popular Canal cruise here .

Remember that the flat boats can leave from two different places: Nyhavn Harbour (shown in first photo) and the canal right in front of Christiansborg Palace (shown in second photo).

Copenhagen Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is located in the middle of Copenhagen very close to Nørreport Station. The gardens cover an area of over 10 hectares and have 27 glasshouses which can be visited. The gardens were first established in 1600 but have been moved twice to the current location in 1870.

The coolest glasshouse is definitely the old Palm House. Built in 1874, the highest point is 16 metres tall and has a cast-iron staircase leading up to the walkway at the top.

The gardens have over 13,000 plant species and two cafés – in case all the plant life makes you thirsty. Definitely check out the Botanical Gardens – visit the official website .

Address: Gothersgade 128, 1123 København, Denmark

Freetown Christiania

There’s one part of Copenhagen that attracts many curious visitors year after year, In fact, it’s not even part of Copenhagen. Founded in 1971 by a group of hippies, Christiania is truly a “free state” – an area ruling autonomously to Copenhagen and the Danish Government.

You can visit Christiania which has plenty of markets, organic eateries, galleries and artisan shops, and more. There are signs about what to do and what not to do when you enter – you should follow these rules carefully and you won’t have any problems.

The main one: be careful what you photograph since the dealing of hash is a well-known industry in Christiania (although it’s still technically illegal).

Things to Know Before Visiting Copenhagen

Before you travel to explore the Danish capital, here are a few things you should consider! We’ve covered getting around, when to visit, and where to stay in brief below!

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen

As for the best time to visit Copenhagen, this would greatly depend on what activities you are planning to do! The warmer months are obviously more popular – with June through August bringing the summer heat but also the crowds.

The summer is generally more expensive for accommodations, etc. The spring months or even June are good as the weather warms up. Same goes for the fall – cooler temperatures are still pleasant to wander the city.

If you wanted to see Tivoli all lit up at Christmas time, you can visit Copenhagen in the winter time. Eric first visited in February and had a great time exploring the city. Just bundle up, find great cafes, and mix up the indoor/outdoor activities.

Copenhagen has a great mix of things to do in all seasons so you aren’t completely screwed in any season, honestly. You can check out our packing list for Europe if you need help with packing.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Getting around Copenhagen is pretty easy and you’ve got a few great options to choose from. The city is pretty spread out but flat so walking is definitely an easy option. The exercise is good and the neighbourhoods are very pretty to wander in and out of.

The public transit system is excellent and consists of the metro and buses. The metro runs 24/7 because there’s no driver… which is pretty awesome.

There are also S-trains which are used for longer distances – but you likely wouldn’t use them if you stay in the centre unless you were heading on a half day trip to Bakken (see below).

To plan routes and learn about fares,  here’s a link to the  Copenhagen transit website . It’s a great system with a Rejsekort  – just load up the card and tap on and tap off the bus, train, or metro to “close” your journey. Simple!

If you wanted to feel like a local Dane, you could always take a bike around Copenhagen. It’s been said that in 2016 – for the first time in the city’s history – the number of bicycles outnumbered the number of cars on the road. This is a testament to how bike-friendly Copenhagen is. 

The biking lanes/infrastructure are among the world’s best so you will have no worries about biking in a new city. For visitors, it’s important to remember that the bike lanes are just as serious as the car lanes – so don’t walk in them! 

Bike rentals are also relatively inexpensive if you use it to get around the whole city for a day or more. Plus, you save on transit passes and/or parking fees. If you wanted to ride a bike but don’t want to do it on your own, you can do a guided Copenhagen bike tour ! 

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

If you are coming to Copenhagen for a few days, you will need a place to sleep. Lucky for you, we have actually written a whole guide on this: where to stay in Copenhagen without spending too much.

That said, there are lots of places to stay (even in the city centre) that are affordable. You just have to know where to look!

If you are in a hurry, you can just check now for accommodation in Copenhagen . If you are looking for a hotel, check out  Hotel Nora Copenhagen  and have a look at Copenhagen Generator for a great hostel (located in the city centre).

Eric loved his stay in Copenhagen Generator – it even made our list of great hostels in Europe we’ve stayed at!

So, there you go! 19 things to do and see while you’re visiting Copenhagen. We could have gone on forever, but frankly, our fingers kinda hurt from typing! What do you think? Did we cover all your favourites or did we miss anything?

If you travel to Copenhagen, be sure to refer to our guide and come back here to tell us what you enjoyed! We’re happy to hear about Copenhagen.

As always, Happy Mermaid Waddlin’, -L&E

Related Articles

If you’re sticking around the Danish capital, be sure to grab your Copenhagen Card and these posts to help you plan your Copenhagen trip:

• Where To Stay In Copenhagen Without Going Broke
• How to Spend One Perfect Day in Copenhagen

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Copenhagen’s top attractions

Copenhagen is perfect for sightseeing. The lovely Danish capital has lots to see and do for everyone! In fact, if you want to take it all in, you’ll be in for a very busy time. Meeting the people of Copenhagen is one of the best ways to experience the city, and there are so many great places to get acquainted!

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Copenhagen

1. Meet The Danes

Long known for their convivial lifestyle of “hygge”, the Danes are a people who welcome visitors and tourists and like to share good times throughout the city’s many beautiful parks, streets, and open spaces.

Hop on a bike and explore Copenhagen’s charming nooks and crannies for yourself—you’re bound to find your own favourite spot.

Or dive into history with a guided tour at The National Museum of Denmark , where you’ll discover how the Danes have come to be the people they are today.

2. Explore Christiansborg Palace

A must for all fans of magnificent sights, stately Christiansborg Palace is Denmark’s national centre of power.  Visit Parliament or the Queen's work place at Christiansborg Palace . All perform their official functions within the palace’s historic walls.

3. Guided tour of the Victorian Home

Close to The National Museum of Denmark, this charming and cosy residence from a bygone time features the finest materials and craftsmanship of the late nineteenth century.

4. The National Museum of Denmark

The nation’s largest and most comprehensive cultural and historical museum offers a dazzling spectrum of fascinating things to see. Virtually like entering a time-machine you can encounter Vikings, Egyptian mummies, and an old hash stall from Christiania.

5. The Sun Chariot - a Bronze Age Treasure

The prehistoric Sun Chariot , the only object of its kind in the world, was unearthed in 1902 when the former bog Trundholm Mose in northwestern Zealand was ploughed for the first time. The elegant spiral ornamentation that graces the golden sun disc reveals its ancient Nordic origins. Take a closer look at this prized piece of Danish history at The National Museum .

7. Visit naval icons from the Cold War

Right on the waterfront, close to the Opera House in Copenhagen Harbour, you’ll get close to history on board three naval icons from the Cold War: the submarine Saelen, the guided missile boat Sehested, and the frigate Peder Skram. These vessels, which look as if they’d just been taken out of service, are open to visitors during the summer and on autumn holidays.

9. The Danish War Museum (formerly The Royal Arsenal Museum)

This acclaimed museum of military history  is located Christian IV's solid weaponry from 1604 right in the centre of power of Denmark's capital. Enter a Danish military camp from the war in Afghanistan, hear about life in the Danish Navy, and get an insight into Denmark's wars since the 1500's.

6. Travel back to Danish Prehistory

Travel back in time to a Denmark before history began and gain new insights into our ancestors of long ago. At The National Museum of Denmark, you’ll experience exciting national treasures like the Egtved girl’s grave, the Gundestrup cauldron, the Hoby tomb, and much more.

8. A Children’s museum that’s fun

Take the family on a voyage in a Viking ship. Become a schoolchild of the 1930s and find out what your great-grandparents were learning. Make a snack in the ancient medieval kitchen. Get the castle ready for an enemy attack. The Children’s Museum at the National Museum invites kids to touch everything in sight!

10. Old Denmark – one of the largest outdoor museums in the world

Just a short trip outside the city is Old Denmark - Open Air Museum . It’s a wondrous place where you enter a totally different world—the delightful countryside of a bygone Denmark.

Also worth a visit: The Danish Music Museum

Whether or not you have a musical bent, you’ll be singing the praises of The Danish Music Museum , founded in 1898. Wide-ranging exhibits trace the history of musical instruments from Europe, Asia, and Africa from the sixteenth century to today.

20 top attractions in Copenhagen

by Noel | | Denmark , Top Attractions , Urban travel | 37 comments

20 top Attractions in Copenhagen: explore the vibrant and exciting capital city of Denmark (Updated 2023)

Copenhagen, the vibrant capital city of Denmark, is a fascinating destination filled with a diverse array of cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks. From stunning royal palaces and picturesque canals to trendy neighborhoods and world-class museums, Copenhagen offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 20 top attractions in Copenhagen to help you make the most of your trip. I love visiting this enchanting city and discover why it’s one of Europe’s most popular destinations and here the best places to explore in the city.

It’s late afternoon along the waterfront at Nyhavn , one of the busiest and popular tourist attractions in Copenhagen’s harbor area. But surprisingly it feels very festive and genuine – even the locals are coming down to enjoy the sun and do some people watching along the boardwalk. But they are smarter, bringing their own beverages and sitting along the docks or open spaces at a fraction of what it would cost to sit and drink one beer at any of the bars and cafes lining Nyhavn’s colorful waterfront area.  I find out that those few perfect sunny days in Copenhagen are to really treasured times for locals,  everyone comes out to celebrate with friends and savor the moment, blue skies and great company. There are many places to visit in Copenhagen that are touristy but also authentic and many off the beaten path and fun to discover below. Put these 20 top places to visit in Copenhagen on your bucket list of places to visit in the city when you are planning a trip to beautiful Copenhagen.

You’ll love visiting these cool places to visit in Copenhagen with historic appeal, fun and funky neighborhoods and amazing cuisine to experience. If you’re wondering what to see in Copenhagen in one day or longer, check out all these popular and local activities around the city to enjoy and discover on your own.

Copenhagen places to visit – colorful Nyhaven district

When to visit these Copenhagen attractions in Denmark?

A bustling, colorful and fun city that is always changing with cool neighborhoods to explore, cutting edge dining scenes, historic treasures to explore and quirky places to visit around the city, Copenhagen is vibrant and wonderful to explore. Copenhagen is lively and fun to visit in the summer to early fall months when everyone wants to be outdoors and exploring the Copenhagen attractions, fun parks, neighborhoods and cool hang out spots in the city.

You’ll enjoy visiting all the Copenhagen sites in the capitol city with its’ unique attractions and neighborhoods to explore. There are so many unique and fun places to visit in Copenhagen’s many districts that really give you a sense of place and the food to try here in the city is international with a bent towards fresh and farm to table ingredients that are sourced locally and enjoyed by everyone.

The Weather in Copenhagen and what’s the best time to visit

Weather in Copenhagen: Copenhagen experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cold winters. The city is known for its changeable weather, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.

Summer (June to August): During summer, Copenhagen experiences relatively mild temperatures with average highs ranging from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F). It’s the peak tourist season, and you can expect longer daylight hours, making it a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoy various festivals and events.

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to October): Spring and autumn bring mild to cool temperatures with average highs ranging from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F). These shoulder seasons are also a good time to visit Copenhagen, as the weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

Winter (November to February): Winter in Copenhagen is cold, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). While the city can be quite charming during the holiday season with its festive decorations and markets, it’s not the best time for outdoor activities due to the colder weather.

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen: The best time to visit Copenhagen largely depends on your preferences. If you enjoy milder weather and want to experience the city when it’s most vibrant, consider visiting during the summer months (June to August). However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so accommodations and attractions may be more crowded.

How to get around Copenhagen

Navigating Copenhagen is a relatively easy various transportation options. In the heart of the city most of the attractions and neighborhoods are easy to get to by walking. Here’s your guide on how to get around the Danish capital:

Biking : Copenhagen is renowned as one of the most bike-friendly cities globally, with dedicated lanes and a bike-sharing system. Rent a bike and explore the city at your own pace. Don’t miss the chance to ride along the picturesque waterfront.

Public Transport : The city boasts an efficient public transport network, including buses, trains, and the metro. Purchase a Rejsekort (travel card) for convenience, or buy individual tickets. The metro is especially handy for reaching neighborhoods like Vesterbro and Nørrebro quickly.

Walking : Copenhagen is a pedestrian-friendly city with well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a pleasant way to explore.

Boat Tours : Given its coastal location, Copenhagen offers scenic boat tours. Hop on a harbor cruise or canal tour to see the city from a different perspective. You can even use water buses for a unique commute.

Taxi and Rideshares : Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive. Consider using rideshare apps like Uber for a more cost-effective option.

Electric Scooters : Copenhagen has electric scooter rental services that are perfect for short trips within the city. Keep an eye out for designated parking zones.

Trains to Nearby Cities : If you’re planning day trips or visiting nearby cities like Malmö in Sweden, the train network is convenient and offers a seamless travel experience.

Copenhagen Card : Consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card, which provides unlimited public transport and access to many attractions for a fixed period.

Airport Transportation : The Copenhagen Airport is well-connected to the city center via the metro and trains, ensuring a smooth transition from your flight to your accommodation.

Remember that Copenhagen is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and green transportation, so take advantage of eco-friendly options like biking and public transit to fully immerse yourself in the city’s culture while minimizing your environmental impact. Enjoy your journey through this charming Scandinavian capital!

Here are the best 20 things to see around the capital city of Copenhagen 

Copenhagen’s attractions are easy city to explore and even walk around the main attractions around the center of town which are clustered around Slotsholmen, and just outside into the new sections of the city at Christian Town. Within the island of Slotsholmen are many historic treasures, palaces, museums and the Danish Parliament. And just across the canal are many landmarks that are easy to find along the main promenade you’ll find Copenhagen’s main attractions: the Stroget, Nyhavn, Old town hall, Round tower, just to name a few. It’s easy to cover many of the monuments and attractions in one full day, but Copenhagen is a city to be savored slowly, and enjoy the busy and quiet places at a leisurely pace.  

Checking out the Historic central district of Copenhagen

The historic central district of Copenhagen, also known as Indre By, is the heart of the city and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Denmark’s capital. This charming area is filled with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. From grand royal palaces to cozy cafes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a picturesque stroll, the historic central district of Copenhagen is sure to captivate you with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

Copenhagen at the Stroget

1. Strøget shopping street

One of the top sites of Copenhagen to visit is Stroget street. Copenhagen’s largest outdoor shopping street in the central district is called Stroget,  a popular shopping venue with pedestrian only promenades filled with popular stores.  The main square around Stroget is called the Amagertorv with an ornate stork fountain done in Dutch renaissance style. Located in the center of the square, the fountain was built to celebrate the silver wedding anniversary of King Frederik VIII to Queen Louise – the fountain was given to them by the city council and commemorated in 1894.  Stroget has many of the world’s international fashion and product brands including: H&M, Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and many well known designers. One of the fun things to do in Copenhagen is explore the main promenade which feature many local design shops and specialty Danish stores including: Mads Nørgaard design, Birger Christensen, the Hay house,  Trollbeads and Sand which features Danish designs for men’s and women’s wear.

For a comprehensive list of Danish designs and other cool shops to check out at Stroget, visit  Visit Copenhagen’s site here .

Let’s do a shopping tour experience here below

Copenhagen City Hall Square – Fantasy dragon at city hall square – A first impression of Copenhagen, Denmark

2. Town hall square, Rådhuspladsen

One of the most frequented and top Copenhagen sights is the town hall or Radhuspladsen. The main square of Copenhagen is simply called Copenhagen town hall square or Rådhuspladsen.  It is fashioned in an Italian Renaissance style with Danish influence that was popular during the timeframe of its build.    On the main tower of the town hall is a large ornate world clock created by Jens Olsen, one of the pre-eminent clock markers who created one of the most accurate, large scale devices in the world. The façade of the main town hall is ornate with beautiful detailed craftsmanship created by local designers and craftsmen

**You can sign up for a guided tour of the Copenhagen City Hall here for more information and entry.

Façade of the old town hall at Raduspladsen, Copenhagen

The Raduspladsen is a wonderful place to be in the moment, capture some photographs or just sit in a café on the square to enjoy the views and people watching. The square is a popular gathering spot for political, social and large entertainment events in the city.  When you visit this Copenhagen sightseeing venue, make sure to check out all the fantastical details around this famous Copenhagen attraction. In the middle is a wonderful fantasy dragon fountain made with three large dragons around a bronze basin in different poses, offering a wonderful and creative look at Danish artistry and design during the early 1920’s.

There’s always fun events happening at the main City Hall Square in Radhuspladsen below

Copenhagen top attractions- Tivoli gardens at night

3. Tivoli Gardens

Of all the places to visit in Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens is one of the most popular attractions. This iconic Copenhagen attraction combines a fun adventure park with gardens and other fun local activities and colorful places to hang out in the historic district. This popular amusement park and local attractions is open all day into late at night when many locals and visitors come for entertainment. The amusement park located next to Copenhagen’s main train station was started in 1843 and quickly became the city’s fun pleasure garden for crazy rides, shows and attractive food venues. The park has evolved with current tastes to include more off the wall amusement rides, beautiful gardens, light shows and events to make this a fun attraction during the day time or late at night when the entire park is magically illuminated.  The park draws in over 4 million visitors annually and is the most popular theme park in all of Scandinavia. For more information on events and activities in the park, you can visit the Tivoli website here . 

**Get your  entry to the  Tivoli Gardens in advanced here to avoid the lines from this attraction

Entry to the Tivoli Gardens at night

One of the best things to do in Copenhagen at night, visiting the Tivoli Gardens and seeing all the attractions and venues lit up creates this magical experience to explore and enjoy the entire amusement park. It’s fun to hang out, grab a bite to eat, enjoy some of the amusement rides and of course enjoy the many brew gardens in the park in this iconic Copenhagen tourist attraction.

Tivoli Gardens in central Copenhagen

Check out the fun around Tivoli Gardens below

4. Carlsberg 

One of the cool and satisifying Copenhagen attractions is a visit to Carlsberg. For beer lovers, a visit to the Carlsberg breweries is a must at the town of Valby, which is close to the city center. Valby is the location of the first Carlsberg brewery in Denmark. Outside of the main brewery, there are many warehouses and beautiful brick buildings that are being repurposed into mixed used places for locals and eventually tourists to visit. The old brewery is open to visitors to tour the historical facility and buildings, art collections and stable grounds. With the entry price, there are free guided tours with an overview of the history, brew making story and architecture at Carlsberg.

The brewery is famous for its beautiful brick buildings constructed in the early 19th and 20th centuries with gorgeous facades and ornamentation and details. The brewery also has two gardens, stables, villas and an art museum worth visiting. You can also sample some of their famous beers at Jacobsen Brewhouse & Bar. For more information about visiting the brewery and a calendar of events, you can check out the Carlsberg website here .

One of the top attractions in Copenhagen, a visit to Carlsberg is a must for beer enthusiasts and drinkers.

Visit the cultural treasures around Copenhagen

The Glyptotek in Copenhagen

5. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

 A fun cultural Copenhagen tourist attraction is the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek which is Copenhagen’s signature art museum. Named for the iconic Carlsberg benefactor, the museum is mostly a personal collection of Carl Jacobson who created the museum and donated it to the city. Even for non museum goers, this is a must see place because of the stunning exterior and interior details, including the spectacular views from the rooftop deck. The Glyptotek museum exhibits rotating shows along with their permanent collections of mostly ancient antiquities of mostly Egypt, Rome and Greece. There is also a collection of modern art with French Impressionist and Post Impressionist masterpieces, works by Rodin and a collection of paintings of the Danish Golden age. A popular place to visit during bad weather outside, the museum is one of the top places to visit at winter time in Copenhagen. The museum is a beautiful refuge to enjoy art and collections in a beautiful space away from the elements and changing conditions in the city.

A replica of a roman villa with antiquities at the Carlsberg Glyptotek

 Once you enter the museum, you approach this airy and magnificently ornate greenhouse with gorgeous statues and tropical plants. It feels like you are being transported into a different world filled with imagination and antiquities that draw you into another world and time. It’s almost worth seeing this space and admiring it on its own without even having to see the incredible artwork and collections of the Glyptotek. But don’t stop there, the many galleries are also well designed and easy to walk through and enjoy the beautiful presentation and artwork.

To plan your visit or check out the latest exhibits at the museum, you can check out the Glyptotek website here .

Here’s a cool tour of the Glypotek below

Christiansborg Palace tower views of Copenhagen

6. Christiansborg Palace tower

Sight seeing Copenhagen from above gives you a fantastic vantage point of the city and all the Copenhagen attractions. One of the fun Copenhagen tourist attractions with the best views can be found from the top of the Christiansborg Palace tower. The tallest tower in Copenhagen which also happens to be a free attraction, is a must visit attraction to see magnificent views of the entire city and harbor area. The tower, owned by the Danish parliament was created by Parliament members for free public viewing to visitors and visitors to the city.  You can take an elevator ride up to the observation areas and the views from the Christiansborg tower offers a stunning 360 degree view of the entire city and outlying areas.

Tip: best times to visit to avoid the crowds are early when tower opens or even late in the afternoon for the twilight hour and evening views of the city. Also, there is a restaurant in the tower called the Tarnet for more refined and modern Danish cuisine.  For more information about the tower visit and hours, you can check out their website here .

**You can sign up for a guided tour of the Christianborg Palace here f or more information and entry.

Christiansborg Palace at Slotsholmen, Copenhagen

7. Christiansborg Palace

The main palace at Christiansborg is open for the public to view many of the public and administrative halls in the palace. The seat of imperial Denmark, the palace retains many of its splendid royal halls which the queen still uses for many state dinners and events. With the price of admission you can also visit the royal stables, the underground ruins of earlier medieval castles, the palace chapel and the court theater. Inside the palace are beautiful collections of porcelain, tapestries, artwork and statues, chandeliers and other richly decorated ornaments.

The palace is also a working government building housing all three branches of the Danish government including: the executive, legislative and judicial powers of the country. Since the early 15th century the palace has been the base of central administration and now the current day parliament of Denmark. It is the only government building in the world that houses all of its government branches within one impressive building.

For more information on tours and hours, you can visit the Christiansborg palace website here .

Slotsholmen in the old town of Copenhagen

You can tour the palace and also take an elevator to the top of this palace below

8. Slotsholmen

The central core island in Copenhagen’s main harbor was formed into the city’s ruling power and eventually expanded to Christian Town and other outlying areas which eventually formed the city center. Recognized as the center of Denmark’s government, Slotsholmen has been the active ruling seat since the middle ages and into modern times. The historic island is filled with historical monuments and important architectural buildings including: Christiansborg Slot, Denmark’s parliament (Folketing), the royal residence ( Christiansborg Palace ), the Supreme Court, national archives and the prime minister’s office all one confined area.

You can easily spend days just visiting the many museums on the island.  This includes magnificent buildings that house the following: the Danish Jewish Museum, the royal stables at Christianborg Palace, the Theater Museum, ruins at Christianborg Palace, the Royal Arsenal Museum, Thorvaldsen Museum. For more information and a comprehensive list of  museums, hours and what’s happening, you can check out Visit Copenhagen’s Museum link here .

 For fun activities and tours  in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

Enjoy the hip and fun neighborhoods around Copenhagen

Vesterbro and Meatpacking District in Copenhagen

9. Vesterbro and Meatpacking District

One of the cool and new Copenhagen’s sights to hang out in is the Meat packing district at Vesterbro. One of the fun and new hipster thing to do in Copenhagen is to visit the meatpacking district called Vesterbro which is located next to the main train station. The area is now considered Copenhagen’s ‘Red light district’ but with more yuppie appeal and bustling with hip cafes, clubs and the occasional strip show venue. The new hipster zone is a fun spot to visit the many design galleries and stores, interesting old architecture or just walking through and enjoying the street life. Of course, if your main interest is mostly the club scene and red-light appeal, then nighttime at Vesterbro is definitely the best time to explore the area. For a list of interesting places to visit and cool attractions, you can check some of the activities around Vesterbro here

Multi – purpose complex at Vesterbro, Copenhagen

Check out why Vesterbro is so cool below

10.  Christiania

An unusual and fun Copenhagen sightseeing attraction is a visit to Christiania. Originally Copenhagen’s hippy hangout, Christiania is one of the most exciting and fun thing to do in Copenhagen. Originally the neighborhood was an abandoned military base founded by squatters and artists moved in and developed the area into a social experiment known as a ‘free town’, or basically a hippy commune.

The area has now evolved into a vibrant community with a gritty edge. There’s a lot of street art, galleries, cafes and night clubs to hang out and even buy weed or other soft drunks available for sale in many of these establishments.  There are also unusual museums, community centers and music venues to explore around the community. The alternate lifestyle and vibe of the area resonates with the younger, liberal and open attitudes of the community, so if you are looking for something different and more on Copenhagen’s cutting edge scene, you definitely need to check out Christiania.  For more information and safety guidelines  visiting the community, check out this website .

Nyhavn or the new harbor of Copenhagen

One of the top sights in Copenhagen to visit and hang out in the many restaurants and bars is at Nyhavn. The new harbor of Copenhagen is the perfect place to end the day along the waterfront area which is filled with cafes, bars and the enjoying the beautiful canal. The colorful facades and canal make Nyhavn a postcard perfect venue all day to late at night. Taking a boat ride starting at Nyhavn is a popular way of seeing the waterfront and canal areas of Copenhagen’s busy waterfront and popular hangout spots in the city including the canals around Christian town.

There’s so much more to do in Copenhagen in summertime and visiting Nyhavn and hanging out at the bars, restaurants or even the docks is a fun pastime here to enjoy being outdoors in the waterfront district.

**Consider this easy one hour cruise through the harbor area and the major sites including: Amalienborg Castle, the Little Mermaid, Opera House, Christianshavn and Copenhagen’s canals.

Sightseeing Copenhagen- Main canal at Nyhavn, Copenhagen

Nyhavn and Slotsholmen

Canal views of Nyhavn and Slotsholmen, central Copenhagen

Here’s a quick video tour exploring the area below

Views across to Christianshavn or Christiana town in Copenhagen

12. Christianshavn or Christiantown

The waterfront community of canals and old warehouse district of Copenhagen which has transformed into a gentrified and expensive housing community. A canal cruise is the preferred way to visit the canals and restored warehouses that have been converted to living and working buildings and enjoy the views from a water vantage point. Or you can take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood to soak in the slower pace and details of daily life around this vibrant area.

For accommodations in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

Here’s a quick look visiting Christianshavn below

Ørstedparken in central Copenhagen

13. Ørstedparken

One of the most popular public parks in Central Copenhagen is Orstedparken which is located along the old fortification ruins of the city. The moat is still left over with large ponds in the middle of the park with trails, flower gardens and grassy hills. Some of the hilly areas contain an old bastion and rampart with wonderful views to the surrounding areas and city center. During the summer time, the park  is filled with colorful flower gardens like the garden beds below. Its a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to have a nice picnic or just take a long afternoon nap. It’s a perfect respite from the crowded urban crawl around the historic center of the city.

  Annual flower beds at Orstedparken

Lounging amid the flower beds at Ørstedparken in central Copenhagen

Here’s a quick visit around Ostedsparken park below

Little Copenhagen in central historic area

14. Torvehallerne outdoor flea market

A cool new hangout spot and hipster place to visit in Copenhagen is right next door to the Torvehallerne and Orstedparken, is on the cutting edge, made with shipping containers repurposed into street food, beer stations and public entertainment venues all in one setting.  The area has an edgy vibe with cool DJs spinning, live bands and performances, dances and the weekend outdoor craft fares happening all around the park like setting.

If you are looking for a trendy and fun area to hang out with the locals, then go to Little Copenhagen from Thursday to Sunday evenings and enjoy all the entertainment and delicious street food. You’ll enjoy visiting this very local Copenhagen attraction on the weekends to see and live the vibe of this fun neighborhood in town.

Arts and crafts displays at Little Copenhagen

15. Rosenborg Castle 

Set in the King’s garden in central Copenhagen, Rosenborg castle was built in the Dutch Renaissance style which was a predominant Danish style popular during this timeframe.  The tall and ornate brickwork and sandstone with tall towers capped in copper details. The royal palace originally the summer residence until the 1710 is now mostly used as a royal museum which features the royal treasures and crowns of the monarchy along with a rich collection of artwork, paintings, parade regalia and other fine collections. The royal chambers, assembly halls and administrative offices are open for the public to visit along with the public gardens around the palace.

Torvehallerne specialty food market, Copenhagen

16. Torvehallerne   

A food paradise and Copenhagan attraction for foodies that love local foods and specialty foods. Across the street from Little Copenhagen is Torvehallerne, an upscale food hall and specialty food court which caters to both local crowds and visitors. The market is housed in twin greenhouses with outdoor seating and shops sprinkled around the dining areas. It’s a very festive and color area with many food shops specializing in prepared foods, local meats, cheeses, breads and pastries, imported goods and everything delicious and foodie focused.  The best thing is to come hungry and just explore the stalls to see what appeals to you and you just may visit Torvehallerne a second or third time.

Torvehallerne in Copenhagen

Let’s explore the delicious Torvehllerne below

Iris and water views at Copenhagen Botanical garden

17. Copenhagen Botanical garden

The Copenhagen botanical gardens are full of beautiful garden rooms, water features and lakes with sweeping lawns and pastoral views.  The garden also have unusual round Victorian glasshouses housing tropical and Mediterranean to desert botanical plants and species. As part of the Natural history museum, the botanical garden houses the largest collection of living plants and botanical species in Denmark. For a nice quiet and relaxing visit away from the busy urban areas of Copenhagen, the botanical garden is is a nice respite with well maintained garden rooms, glasshouses and open space to enjoy and worth a visit. If you want to be outdoors and exploring one of the beautiful outdoor places to visit in Copenhagen, then head out for a fun morning or afternoon walk around the botanical garden.

The gardens are free and open to the public and for more information and history about the gardens, you can visit their website here .

You can walk through these stunning gardens here for more inspiration

Flea market shopping at Nørrebro district, Copenhagen

18. Nørrebro district

For those interested in Danish design, antiques and galleries, then the Norrebro district and the right place to explore the many shops that specialize in antiquities, imported and Danish works. The area off Ravnsborggade street has many quirky, cool shops and antique stores worth visiting and hopefully finding some treasures to take home.  The area also has a very cool vibe with trendy stores, cafes, retro shops and design studios and weekends include an antique market that’s fun to dig through for something interesting or a souvenir. There are flea markets that happen on the streets around the Norrebro district, check out the details to visiting these outdoor markets here for time frames.

To check out some of the unique store, click on Visit Copenhagen’s website here .

A cool design shop at Nørrebro district, Copenhagen

Check these cool place to explore around Norrebro district below

19. National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is a free museum worth visiting in Copenhagen. It houses the entire range of important ancient Danish history, events, artifacts and artwork in the 3 floors of galleries and exhibit halls. Outside of Danish cultural exhibits and history, the National Museum of Denmark also contains exhibits and national interests in areas: of natural sciences, archaeology, ethnology, conservation, communication and religion.  It terms of historical value, the museum collections represent 14,000 years of Danish history ranging from the ice age and Viking time frame to the middle ages and on to modern Danish economy, contemporary lifestyle and culture.

**You can sign up for a guided tour of the National Museum of Denmark here for more information and entry.

Check out this tour of this fantastic museum below

To plan your visit and find out more about current exhibits, you can visit the National Museum website here

Best places to visit in Copenhagen- Peblinge Lake in central Copenhagen

20. Peblinge Lake

Another popular green belt and lake area in central Copenhagen, Peblinge lake is a series of three rectangular lakes that formed originally from a stream and converted into dammed lakes as fortification for the historic central district in the early 1700s.  Now the lakes and green belts are used for recreational purposes and offer beautiful skyline views on the city center.

  Swans at Peblinge lake looking for handouts

What to visit in Copenhagen- Peblinge Lake and swans in central Copenhagen

Here’s a fun visit to “The Lakes” in Copenhagen below

Where and what to eat in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is definitely an expensive foodie city with gorgeous food specialty markets like Torvehallerne market, fantastic local food choices and fantastic fine dining experiences around the city. Here are some recommended foods and places to eat around this wonderful city of amazing food choices.

Copenhagen offers a delightful array of local and street food options that reflect the city’s diverse culinary scene. When visiting Copenhagen, be sure to try these delicious local treats:

Smørrebrød : A traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, smørrebrød consists of rye bread topped with various ingredients such as herring, roast beef, liver pâté, shrimp, and more. It’s a flavorful and visually appealing dish that you can find in many cafes and delis across the city.

Pølsevogn (Hot Dog Stands) : Hot dogs are a popular street food in Copenhagen. Look out for pølsevogn (hot dog stands) that serve delicious sausages with a variety of toppings, including remoulade (a creamy sauce), pickles, crispy onions, and mustard.

Frikadeller : These Danish meatballs are often made with a combination of pork and veal, seasoned with herbs and spices. Frikadeller are typically served with potatoes and gravy, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Stegt Flæsk med Persillesovs : This traditional Danish dish consists of crispy fried pork belly served with a parsley sauce and boiled potatoes. It’s a beloved comfort food in Denmark and a must-try for pork lovers.

Æbleskiver : These delightful round pancake-like pastries are a popular Danish treat, especially during the Christmas season. They are served with powdered sugar and often accompanied by jam for dipping.

Kanelsnegle (Cinnamon Snails) : Kanelsnegle are delicious cinnamon rolls with a soft and flaky texture. You can find them in bakeries and cafes throughout Copenhagen.

Gammeldags is (Old-fashioned ice cream) : Copenhagen boasts some excellent ice cream parlors offering traditional Danish ice cream flavors. Indulge in flavors like flødebolle (chocolate-covered marshmallow), lakrids (licorice), or friskost (a fresh cheese flavor).

Danish Pastries (Wienerbrød) : Copenhagen is famous for its scrumptious Danish pastries. Try classics like the cinnamon-filled snegl or the fruit-filled spandauer for a delightful sweet treat.

Grød : If you’re a fan of porridge or oatmeal, head to one of Copenhagen’s Grød cafés. They offer a variety of sweet and savory porridge dishes, using different grains and toppings for a wholesome and delicious meal.

While exploring Copenhagen, keep an eye out for food markets like Torvehallerne and Reffen Street Food Market, which offer a diverse selection of local and international street food. These markets are great places to sample various dishes and enjoy the vibrant food scene of the city.

Take a food tour introduction to Danish cuisine

With so many food choices to choose from a food tour would be an ideal experience to try some of the local specialties in the city and region. You’ll love this food tour experience which will show you what Danish cuisine is all about by walking and eating your way through the city. From specialty delicatessens, open face smorrebrod to artisanal cheeses, this tour will give you an excellent overview of Danish food at its best.

Enjoy these street foods of Copenhagen

Here’s a video on what types of foods to eat in Copenhagen

Experience Noma – the best restaurant nominated 4 times as the New Nordic Cuisine in the World

More tips on Visiting Copenhagen city

Copenhagen is a compact city and very walkable but if you get tired, its easy to catch public transportation, metro or even Uber. The city is very bike friendly and you can easily rent a bike share to get around the city and see more outlying spots around the city.

If you’re into all the busy activity shopping and dining then the middle of town is an extensive pedestrian area with tons of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues open day and night.

We didn’t mention the Little Mermaid as a tourist attraction, but please do if you want to take a picture of this iconic mermaid.

If you are into iconic Copenhagen street food think about the Danish hot dog, open face sandwiches, Danish pastry and of course Danish meatballs with onions, potatoes and gravy.

Over 86 percent of the Danish population speaks English so go ahead and ask for directions or any help.

Danish street ware is very smart but practical, dress in layers for changing weather patterns throughout your stay and day tripping.

Danish currency is the Krone and the plural term is kroner

Other cool attractions and activities in Copenhagen

If you are looking for more fun things to do and other comprehensive tours around the city, check out these fun and unique tours or activities worth doing in the city.

City bus and boat Hop on Hop off for 48 hours – easy access to the city’s main attractions and an added feature to explore the city’s landmarks on the water.

Copenhagen city card – free entrance to over 73 museums and attractions and local transportation around the city. Also discounts to restaurants, stores and other tourist activities.

A Copenhagen food tour – a tour around the city’s historic center and stops at some of the traditional food venues and newer establishments to taste some of the best foods of the city.

Copenhagen bike tour – Explore the city like a local and through their favorite means of transportation – by bicycle and touring popular attractions all around the city.

Check out all these other fun excursions and tours around Copenhagen here offering unique experiences around the city.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Since this is a walking city it is so easy to be based anywhere close to the historic center. Here are some unique and beautiful properties to consider for your stay in Copenhagen. Or you can consider some of the best Airbnb stays in Copenhagen as an alternative here.

Radisson Blue Royal Hotel Copenhagen – a signature Radisson property in a central location, modern and comfortable rooms with excellent breakfast service

Skt. Petri – Centrally located this modern style hotel has comfortable and clean rooms recently renovated and close to the metro system. Good breakfast service and efficient front desk service.

First Hotel Mayfair – only a three minute walk to the main train station, this classic and elegant hotel with inviting bedroom décor and comfortable rooms. Excellent buffet breakfast and customer service.

Avenue Hotel Copenhagen – Good location and value, classic hotel with modern interiors and comfortable rooms with soft beds. Extensive breakfast buffet and a wide range of services and tours offered by the front desk.

For more reviews and hotel prices check these hotels from Trip Advisor here for more details.

Consider these cool and fun Copenhagen guided tours

If you’re heading to Copenhagen, opting for a guided tour can greatly enhance your experience. A knowledgeable guide can help you uncover lesser-known attractions and offer captivating stories and insights about the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture. With a wide range of tours to choose from, you can select one that caters to your specific interests, whether it’s exploring the charming historic district, indulging in the city’s culinary scene, or immersing yourself in its bustling nightlife. Guided tours can also take care of practicalities like transportation and entrance fees, freeing you up to relax and fully enjoy the excursion. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, a guided tour is an ideal way to elevate your Copenhagen experience and create lasting memories.

Bike tour around Copenhagen

Explore Bike crazy Copenhagen by bike on this three hour tour passing popular attractions like The Little Mermaid, Christiana, Rosenborg Castle, the cool neighborhoods of the city and a stop at stop at Torvehallerne, a sleek food hall, for a snack or coffee.

Check out the details of this tour here for more prices and booking information

Møns klint and Forest tower – A day tour from Copenhagen

Explore this scenic area and nature experience at the Møns Klint chalk cliffs have been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Forest Tower Camp Adventure. Dating back 70,000 years, you’ll get to explore this stunning area and climb one of Denmark’s highest points on this guided tour.

Check out the details of this tour here f or more prices and booking information

Two Hour Segway Tour of Copenhagen

Experience visiting the city on this two hour Segway tour and seeing the main highlights including Nyhaven, Little Mermaid, harbor area, Royal Palace, Danish Parliament and many more sites on this fun tour.

Check out the details of this tour here for more prices and booking information.

Check out these other things to do in Copenhagen

Free things to do in Copenhagen

A visit to the Glyptotek Museum in Copenhagen

A first impression of Copenhagen

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Conclusion to 20 top attractions in Copenhagen  

To sum up, Copenhagen is a city that caters to every traveler’s desires. With its incredible history, breathtaking architecture, lively culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, this enchanting destination is guaranteed to leave an indelible mark on anyone who visits. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Nyhavn, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, or discovering the hidden gems of the historic central district, Copenhagen offers an array of experiences that are truly unforgettable. It’s no wonder why Copenhagen consistently ranks among the most livable cities in the world. So why not start planning your trip today and experience the magic of this captivating city for yourself? We assure you that you won’t be disappointed!

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37 Comments

Great list! I’m planning to visit Copenhagen soon and this will definitely help me plan my itinerary. Thanks for sharing!

I just realised how much I missed when I visited Copenhagen, though I did think it was a beautiful city. I walked a lot around the harbour area and saw the beautiful colourful buildings and walked up to the statue of the little mermaid. I also visited Rosenborg Castle and had a walk through Christiania. I really enjoyed my time in Denmark and would love to go back and see more.

Yes Copenhagen is a fabulous city to explore with all these cool attractions to visit

Ooooh. I love Copenhagen. It is one of the first few cities I did a solo trip to. Christianborg Palace, its tower, Nyhavn are all the best. Too bad I didn’t manage to visit Tivoli Gardens in the night, but that’s a good excuse to plan another trip to Copenhagen. I’ve heard a lot of Christiania, and I’m yet to visit here too.

I know, there’s so many fun and cool places and attractions to see in Copenhagen, it’s worth coming back to visit again.

Wow! I did not realize there are so many things to see and do in Copenhagen. My husband loves beer so, we definitely won’t miss Carlsberg should we get a chance to visit. I would love to explore the Glyptotek museum too.

Copenhagen has so many cool attractions to visit and explore from culture to fun neighborhoods

While reading your post it was so nostalgic. It reminded of our own trip couple of years back. We loved Copenhagen and still regret we did not spend an additional day there. Also our day trip to Malmo over Oresund Bridge was a wonderful experience as well. Nyhavn Habor was our favorite place and we spent quite a lot of time there. Next time we would love to visit the Botanical Garden as we missed it last time.

Malmo is nice and Copenhagen is large but still easy to get around with many cool attractions and places to visit.

I have been to Copenhaven a few years ago and I have seen quite of a few of these attractions. I remember my first beer in the main square, which cost me almost 10 euros haha. I loved Nyhavn, even in the rain it looked so pretty and charming. I also spent one evening in Christiania and that was, let’s just say, interesting.

Copenhagen’s attractions and landmarks are colorful, historic and yes fun to explore

Copenhagen is one of my favorite cities in Europe and I have visited it numerous times. I think I have been to all the places you mentioned in your post! One of the things I would also recommend is a city tour by kajak! It is such a unique way to see the city.

Ah that sounds I’ll have to check it out, glad you have seen all these attractions of Copenhagen

Great post! I have been to Copenhagen and it is simply a must-see city – not only for city attractions but also day trips outside the city. Tivoli gardens, Nyhavn and Rosenburg castle are my favorites. I missed the flea market. You can easily spend a week in this city. Stunning images! 🙂

Yes these top attractions in Copenhagen are the best things to do in the city

I have been myself in in Copenhagen but I did not get to do even half of what you list here. These places seem so interesting to be added to my list if I decide to visit again. The Vesterbro and Meatpacking district, the Copenhagen “red light district” seems like a vey interesting thing to do for someone like me who has spent many years in Amsterdam. Nørrebro distric with all its antique shop seems like the perfect place to go shopping. And that Noma restaurant looks irresistible.

There is so much to see with all these attractions in Copenhagen, fantastic that you have visited a few of these places.

Copenhagen is high on my list! This is an excellent list of ideas, and I’ll be sure to keep them in mind. The Old Town Hall and Tivoli Gardens would be my first choices. The Torvehallerne outdoor flea market also looks like a must with the entertainment and shopping options!

There’s so much to see with all these top attractions in Copenhagen, you’ll really want to do all of these, lol.

Oh my goodness! It looks like there are so many amazing things to do there. I love that you can visit the gardens at night. I’d also do a bit of shopping, visit the castle, and walk in the parks. What a lovely city!

There is a lot of cool things and attractions to visit around Copenhagen, thanks for commenting

hi very good article.

Really amazing blog about top attraction in Copenhagen! I did not know much about Copenhagen. You have shared your info a great. I really enjoyed to read. Thanks for all good resources.

There are many layers to this city and a lot to see. I would really recommend to take a guided tour while there. The tours have different focuses, some are more historical than others.

We were just in Copenhagen for the first time last month and loved it, but you’ve reminded me that we only had time to see a small part of the city. It’s so big and packed with great things to do.

I would love to visit Copenhagen. It looks like an amazing city. I love the WW2 history of this city. I marked this for use when I go.

Great photos! I’ve heard great things about Copenhagen as proved by your blog. The meatpacking district sounds interesting.

Looks like there’s A LOT to do in Copenhagen! We’re planning to live in Germany for a next starting next summer so I’ll have to put Copenhagen on my “weekend destination” list. But with all that stuff to do I might have to go twice or extend my visit to a week

Lovely photography! Copenhagen is such a vibrant city and I can’t imagine a bad photo ever being taken but you have a wonderful eye. This city is on my travel list and probably crept up a bit more once I let the hubby watch Pitch Perfect 2, lol! Great insight to all the wonderful things to do and see. I’ll be saving this one for later.

wow, so much great stuff to do in copenhagen! I had no idea and hope to get there someday to visit! I had heard of that hippy enclave though, sounds interesting!

What great photos and such a detailed post! I love how you mixed in some videos, too! The waterfront vibe of Nyhavn looks relaxing and so fun! Exploring the underground ruins at Christiansborg Palace sounds very interesting as well. I’ve been so curious about Copenhagen and now I’m thinking about when I can get there! Thanks!

Fabulous list – my favorite spot in Copenhagen is Nyhavn Habor – so many amazing resturants and the scene just feels alive every single time. I would also add the Little Mermaid to your list of attractions – I know she’s super touristy and it only takes 10 minutes, but she is Denmark’s most leading lady after all 😀

Fantastic photos. Copenhagen through yours eyes is just stunning.

Wow! Stunning photos. I love the one of Tivoli Gardens the most. Great colors. Denmark has been on my list for more than a decade. I think I’ll need to put it on my 2016 list to make sure it is a reality.

Your first picture of Copenhagen took my breath away, Noel. I never visited this beautiful town, but your post convinced me. I’ll bookmark this page for future use. I am less crazy about museums when I travel, but castles, botanical gardens or simply walking the streets are a great attraction for me.

As always, Noel, incredible photos!

Thanks so much Tam

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• 7 Days In Denmark (Best Denmark Itinerary + Hotels + Ultimate Things To Do) – Travel With Me 24 X 7 - […] the top attractions in Copenhagen, like the Nyhavn Harbor, Amalienborg Palace, and the Little Mermaid […]
• What is Denmark Famous For? Unique Things to Know - […] Gardens, one of the many attractions in Copenhagen, is an amusement park that has captivated visitors since its establishment…
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• Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark: A Quick Guide of Copenhagen Sights - Television of Nomads - […] Christiansborg Palace is the virtually the Danish equivalent of the White House. One of the top attractions in Copenhagen,…
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Hi, I'm Noel, a writer and photographer based in San Francisco and Hawaii. I write about delicious food and wine indulgences, thoughtful luxury, and adventure travel. I share camera tips and techniques while exploring new and unusual places around the world. My site explores culture and history, art and architecture, world heritage sites, exotic locals, along with nature tours and natural landscapes worldwide. Quite a mixed bag of curiosities and quirky interests, just like myself.

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28 Best Things To Do in Copenhagen – Local Favourites & Hidden Gems 🇩🇰

I'm danish and live in the capital, so i know the best things to do in copenhagen. i'll share the top things to do in this guide and hidden gems..

If you are going on holiday to Copenhagen soon, you can already look forward to experiencing a fantastic city with lots of epic things to do.

I have included 28 things to do in Copenhagen in this guide, but this is just a fraction of everything you can experience.

Planning a last minute trip to Copenhagen? I'm a Danish travel blogger who lives in Copenhagen . Here are a few of my top tips for the Danish Capital. 🇩🇰 Top Activities & Tours : 1. Tivoli Gardens + Unlimited Rides Ticket (skip-the-line tickets are essential in high-season!) 2. Canal Cruise from Nyhavn (awesome way to see the city and The Little Mermaid) 3. Rent a GoBoat and cruise the harbour (my favourite thing to do in Summer) 4. The Round Tower (free entrance with the Copenhagen Card ) 5. Guided Tour to Malmö, Lund and Hamlet's Castle in Elsinore 🛌 Places to Stay : 1. Manon Les Suites (luxury hotel with indoor pool & Bali-vibes) 2. Copenhagen Strand (mid-range hotel near Nyhavn) 3. Next House Copenhagen (best cheap hotel in the city centre) 🚇 The Copenhagen Card is honestly a no-brainer: every tourist should get this for easy access to public transport & huge discounts on a lot of activities in Copenhagen.

You’re also more than welcome to comment below with any Copenhagen-related questions you may have, as mentioned in the beginning: I live here, so I know a thing or two about the city 😉

Let’s get started with the guide: what to do in Copenhagen?

1. Rent a boat and sail the harbour

2. tivoli gardens, 3. amalienborg castle, 4. christiansborg, 5. kronborg castle (day trip from copenhagen), 6. canal tour, 7. the little mermaid, 8. the citadel (kastellet), 9. experience copenhagen nightlife on a bar crawl, 10. beer tastings in copenhagen, 11. walking tour, 12. food tour, 13. freetown christiania, 14. the meat packing district (kødbyen), 15. copenhagen zoo, 16. bakken (free amusement park), 17. national aquarium of denmark (den blå planet), 18. copenhagen street food (reffen), 20. the national museum, 21. go to malmö, sweden, 22. national gallery of denmark (smk), 23. the marble church, 24. copenhill.

• 25. Rundetårn (The Round Tower)

26. Rosenborg Castle & The Crown Jewels

27. frederiksberg gardens, 28. the tube copenhagen, what is copenhagen best known for, what is the one thing you recommend doing in copenhagen, what are the best free things to do in copenhagen, what time of year is best to visit copenhagen, what is a must eat in copenhagen.

This is my absolute favourite thing to do in Copenhagen.

It is surprising how much fun it is to sail around and be able to control where you are going.

The boats sail pretty slowly, so there is never any danger, but at the same time it also means that you do not reach very much in 1 hour so I’d recommend booking the boat for at least 2 hours.

There are many different providers of boats, but GoBoat is the best known.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Copenhagen among locals, so make sure you book your boat online well in advance.

If you don’t feel like steering the boat yourself, you can also relatively cheaply book a small boat with your own captain , who will take care of sailing you around to the most famous sights and the hidden gems you wouldn’t usually know about.

In addition, the captain tells you about everything you see from the boat, so if you want to get total value and see some of the city’s best sights from the canal in your own boat, it makes good sense to rent this boat.

See more and book online here .

If you are going to Copenhagen, you must visit Tivoli .

It is always worth the time and the money to visit the beautiful garden and amusement park in the heart of Copenhagen.

If you want to make it easier for yourself to visit Tivoli, you can book your tickets from home.

You decide for yourself whether you want to settle for an entrance ticket so you can walk around and enjoy the garden or whether you also want a tour pass so you can come up and try the many rides.

Both tickets can be bought online.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars and street-food options in Tivoli, so I got to warn you: once you go in, you might end up spending longer than you think 😀

Tivoli is one of the main tourist attractions in Copenhagen, but it’s also close to every Danes’ heart as we’ve all got so many fond memories of coming here as children.

So this is truly one of the top things to do in Copenhagen.

Get tickets to Tivoli here and skip the queue .

Especially in the summer, there can be long queues, so getting a skip-the-line ticket is a good idea.

If you’ve bought the Copenhagen Card , your entry to Tivoli Gardens is covered.

If you are interested in the Danish royal family, you should make your way past Amalienborg Castle. This is where Denmark’s monarch lives, which means Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II at the time of writing.

You will find Amalienborg Castle close to several other attractions in the centre of Copenhagen, which are also worth visiting if you pass by.

If you pass by Amalienborg Castle, you can time it to experience the changing of the guard of the Queen’s Guards, which takes place at 12.

It’s not as spectacular as in London , but it’s worth seeing.

The castle square is surrounded by the four royal mansions forming Amalienborg Castle together. These are Christian VII, Christian VIII, Christian IX, and Frederik VIII.

In the latter, you will find the Amalienborg Museum, where you can step directly into history and see royal life from the inside.

The Copenhagen Card gives access to Amalienborg Castle.

Have you booked your hotel in Copenhagen yet? I’d recommend you check out my extensive guide on where to stay in Copenhagen .

When you have visited where the Danish regent resides, you should almost also make your way past Christiansborg Castle, or just Christiansborg as it is colloquially referred to.

You can visit Denmark’s most important workplace, Folketinget – the parliament.

One of the unique things about Christiansborg’s history must be that the castle burned down twice, so the building was built over three stages. The last time it burned was on 3 October 1884, and it was not until 1928 that the castle was considered to have been finally rebuilt.

Today, the castle is divided into two, with the Folketinget housed in one wing, while the Royal House represents the other.

It is possible to get guided tours of both the Parliament and the royal chambers, but you must be aware that the two bodies are divided, and you must therefore book tickets for both places if you want to see both parts of the palace.

By now, you’ve probably guessed what grants you access to Christiansborg?

Yep, the Copenhagen Card .

The next castle on the list is Kronborg Castle in Elsinore, one of Denmark’s most important and beautiful castles. However, I would only recommend visiting it if you have several days to do well in Copenhagen.

The tour can quickly take a few hours out of your day, so if you are short on time and want to see as much as possible, you should focus on everything you can see inside Copenhagen itself. But if you have time, Kronborg in Elsinore is a great experience.

Here you can follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, where Kronborg, or Elsinore, plays a central role. The castle was given precisely that location because of its location, right where Øresund is narrowest.

It was a strategically important location for Denmark to have a fortress because it was the only way to the baltic sea.

Since 1938, Kronborg has been open to the public, and you have the opportunity, among other things, to visit Holger Danske ( Ogier the Dane ), who sits in the casemates under the castle – ready to wake up if Denmark is in danger!

Book a day trip to Kronborg, Roskilde and Frederiksborg here (the tour gets fantastic reviews).

You could also take the train from Copenhagen Central Station to Elsinore which takes 45 minutes and then walk to the Castle in just about 15 mins.

And yes – the Copenhagen Card covers the entrance to Kronborg as well.

One of the best experiences and things to do in Copenhagen is a tour of the canals .

On a canal cruise, you will be sailed past some of the city’s most important monuments and buildings, and along the way, you will be told lively stories about the Copenhagen sights you pass along the way.

The guide will speak Danish and English, which is understandable for everyone.

Your canal cruise can start from Nyhavn, for example.

The trip around Copenhagen’s beautiful canals usually takes an hour, so there is plenty of room in the schedule to experience many other things in Copenhagen on the same day.

On the trip around the canals, you will, among other things, pass monuments and buildings such as:

• The Little Mermaid
• Christiansborg
• Amalienborg Castle
• The National Bank
• The Opera House

You can find tickets for canal cruises online here (including Hop On Hop Off sightseeing busses as well).

Yes, I need to include The Little Mermaid in my guide to things to do in Copenhagen. Why? Because it is one of the city’s best-known sights and something many tourists want to see.

If you ask me about my honest opinion on The Little Mermaid, I would say that you shouldn’t go out of your way and see the little statue only for the experience – you should do it only if you fancy the walk from Nyhavn.

Here’s my video where I’m showing The Little Mermaid and what to do instead:

There’s a standing joke here in Denmark – and I’m not sure if it’s true – that once a tourist asked a tour guide if it was possible to get to “the top of the little mermaid”.

She was devastated when she learned that The Little Mermaid is, in fact – very little…

Okay, so I’ve mentioned her – no more about The Little Mermaid (Copenhagen’s most overrated thing to do) in this guide 😀

On the other hand, I would like to mention her neighbour, Kastellet.

Right next to The Little Mermaid is one of Copenhagen’s old defences, Kastellet .

Denmark’s military still uses the Citadel, but it is open to us ordinary citizens, and you can have a nice walk on the ramparts.

From here you can actually also look over to The Little Mermaid – if you can spot her (she truly is tiny) 😅

From Kastellet, you should also make your way past the beautiful Gefion Fountain and St Alban’s Church .

If you want to get out and experience the nightlife in Copenhagen, it might be an idea to book a place on a genuine bar crawl.

You, and the rest of the evening’s group, will be guided around by a knowledgeable guide on the trip.

You will pass many different bars and clubs, and you can look forward to skipping the queue as part of the pub crawl group. Along the way, there will be free shots, drinks, access and wardrobe, and you will get special offers on drinks at the places you pass.

Please note that you must be over 18 to participate in a bar crawl, as under 18’s can’t legally buy alcohol in bars in Denmark.

These pub crawls bring together people from all over the world, so it’s the perfect opportunity to meet lots of new and exciting people.

Read more about the next bar crawl here and meet lots of new people.

Denmark has some of the world’s best breweries. And I am not talking about Carlsberg, which, unfortunately, probably takes the prize for being the best-known Danish beer.

No, we have many exciting microbreweries, and the best-known in craft beer is probably Mikkeller .

Mikkeller has many bars around Copenhagen, and at several of these, you can go to beer tastings, where you can taste a variety of their best beers.

I’d recommend looking at places like Fermentoren , Warpigs , ÅBEN , People Like Us Nørrebro (my friend works here, so if you’re served by a guy called Mathias, say hi from Kris 😀 ), Himmeriget and BRUS for some fantastic craft beer in Copenhagen.

See the best-rated beer tastings in Copenhagen here .

If you are pushed for time and want to experience as much of the city as possible, a guided walking tour in Copenhagen is perfect.

The tour takes two hours, and along the way, you will pass as many of Copenhagen’s historical and cultural sights and buildings as possible.

In this way, you also avoid having to plan your trip around the city yourself. It has been taken care of for you, and you have a guide with you throughout the tour to explain and discuss the things and places you pass.

Along the way, you will pass by places such as Christiansborg, Amalienborg Castle, Strøget and Nyhavn.

If there are any of the places you would like to experience close by, you can always go back there yourself when the city walk is over.

The tour is the perfect starting point to form an overview of the city, which can be good to have during the rest of your stay in Copenhagen.

Read more about the two-hour walking tour .

If you want to experience the best of Copenhagen’s food scene, you should go on a dedicated food tour with a guide who will take you past the city’s tastiest eateries.

There are several different tours, but a safe choice is CPH Foodtours . They have many years of experience and therefore know exactly how to organise the perfect food tour in Copenhagen.

On this food tour, you’ll start in Torvehallerne, which is Copenhagen’s best-known food market and past several places with everything from custard buns to smørrebrød (the famous Danish open-faced sandwiches ), so if you want to experience the best Copenhagen’s culinary scene has to offer, it’s an excellent choice – and your guide will take you under their wing, so you get lots of exciting information.

See more about the tour and book online here .

If there is one area that is a must to experience when you are in Copenhagen, it is, of course, Christiania .

The area has become Denmark’s answer and symbol of free spirit and, not least, freedom. At Christiania, creative and alternative initiatives and measures abound.

You will find, for example, venues, galleries, restaurants, cafes, workshops and a lot of other exciting and interesting places in the area. You will find many gift ideas and good craftsmanship in the small shops.

All kinds of people live in Christiania, but unfortunately, a small fraction helps to give Christiania a tarnished reputation in the media.

The area is much more than just Pusher Street . It is beautiful nature, happy people, music, colours, originality and ingenuity.

If you come to Copenhagen and have never been to Christiania, you should go out and experience it yourself.

Consider booking a private guided tour for the full experience.

As the name suggests, the Meat Packing District – or Kødbyen in Danish – is Copenhagen’s old Meat Packing District, which 20-30 years ago was anything but a thing to do in Copenhagen.

However, a lot has happened, and Kødbyen in the Vesterbro area is now one of the trendiest places to visit a restaurant or bar.

I love the beer bars Warpigs and ÅBEN, while you can also eat everything from burgers at Tommis Burger Joint to pizza at Mother and seafood at Kødbyens Fiskebar.

A perfect place to stop by if you want to experience Copenhagen nightlife.

Whether you are travelling to Copenhagen with children or not, it is also recommended to take a trip past Copenhagen Zoo, which, together with the parks and gardens in the city, acts as a breather from the rest of Copenhagen’s hustle and bustle.

You can easily spend many hours in the Zoo, so if you need something to do one day, it is an obvious destination.

The Zoo here is open every day all year round, so regardless of when you come to Copenhagen, you also have the opportunity to go to the Zoo.

In the garden, you can greet hundreds of animal species, such as the newly arrived pandas, polar bears, hippos, chimpanzees, sea lions, flamingos, and many more.

You will also find several eating places in the Zoo, where you can have a hearty lunch before heading out to see the other half of the garden.

The entrance is included with your Copenhagen Card .

There is another amusement park in the capital area in addition to Tivoli – called Bakken .

Bakken is a beautiful destination for a fun day trip for the whole family. Here, young and old can have a fun and experiential day speeding across the field.

You can easily take the S-train to Klampenborg St, which is a few hundred metres from the main entrance.

You will find many rides, restaurants, stalls, cafes and candy shops on Bakken. It costs nothing to enter, so if you don’t want to try the rides, you can quickly go to Bakken and enjoy the atmosphere and surroundings for free.

Otherwise, you can buy a tour pass if you dare to try the slides and carousels.

Bakken is open from April to September, and there is a sea of ​​events and activities you can choose to participate in every year.

The most visited attractions in Copenhagen are Tivoli, followed by Bakken and Copenhagen Zoo. Not far from these mastodons, which have existed for almost many years, we find a fascinating attraction which has only recently opened its doors.

I am talking about the National Aquarium of Denmark, which we call Den Blå Planet (The Blue Planet), and you will find it in Kastrup on Amager – easy to get to with the metro line towards the Airport .

Over 600,000 people visit Den Blå Planet , Northern Europe’s largest exhibition aquarium, every year. Here you and the family can meet and greet over 450 different species and nothing less than over 20,000 sea animals.

At Den Blå Planet , you can try everything from diving with sharks and getting up close to the mighty sea turtles, or how about going behind the scenes and getting a guided tour of the vast aquarium?

Read more and get tickets here .

If you want a different and exciting taste experience out of the ordinary, you should also stop by Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food.

It is nothing less than Northern Europe’s largest street food market, where food stalls from as many as 17 different nationalities are gathered with one purpose – to serve delicious new and exotic dishes to both the locals and the tourists in the city.

However, the reef is only open seasonally, so the area is closed during winter.

At Reffen, you are guaranteed to find something for every taste, and you can already look forward to sinking your teeth into the many tasty delicacies.

You will find everything from appetisers to main courses and desserts, and next to that, you will also find a large selection of drinks, including cocktails, wine, water and beer.

If you doubt where to enjoy dinner, you should head for Reffen. There are so many stalls and specialities that you can go there many evenings without trying it all.

I have mentioned Nyhavn a few times in this article, but the harbour quarter also deserves a point of its own.

Hundreds of thousands of Danes and tourists drop by Nyhavn every year, and there is probably nothing more beautiful or charming than a warm sunny day in Nyhavn.

Whether you sit down at one of the many cafes or restaurants to enjoy a traditional Danish lunch or go for a walk along the water and soak up the good atmosphere, there is probably no cosier place in Copenhagen than Nyhavn.

For many years, the area has been one of the city’s iconic neighbourhoods. Although in the first many years, it housed taverns for the city’s many sailors, today it has taken on a much more positive appearance and now the image of Nyhavn is a much nicer and more peaceful one of a kind.

Between Tivoli and Christiansborg, you will find the National Museum , housed in the beautiful Prinsens Palæ , where it has been since its opening in 1849, as the Danish state took over the buildings.

If you want to get under the skin of Denmark’s entire history, the National Museum is the right place to visit. Here you can see treasures that are all significant relics from the shared Danish past.

A trip to the National Museum is the ideal thing to do in Copenhagen for the whole family, as even the smallest can join in.

Visit the National Museum and step directly into Danish and world history.

The museum also contains a café and a restaurant, where you can conveniently enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal on top of your museum visit.

Get tickets online here or simply use your Copenhagen Card .

You can also kill two birds with one stone in Copenhagen and experience two countries on the same trip. Because Copenhagen is a short drive to Sweden , it is obvious to take a quick trip across the strait if you are in the capital.

For example, you can take a full-day trip across the Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen . On the trip, you will experience both Lund and Malmø, right on the other side of the water.

The trip lasts around six hours, and it is a unique opportunity to experience Swedish culture and history now that you are so close to our neighbouring country.

Here at the end of the guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen, we will also include a trip to the National Gallery of Denmark called Statens Museum for Kunst .

Close by; you will also find the Geological Museum and the State Museum of Natural History, which it is obvious to visit in the same vein.

The National Gallery, or SMK as it is also called, is Denmark’s leading art museum. Over a quarter of a million people come here every year. With the museum’s extensive and long-standing collection considered, it is not difficult to understand why it is so famous.

SMK has many Danish and international works of art, including works by artists like Rembrandt, Mantegna and Rubens. The museum’s collections span the last 700 years, so there is plenty to discover when you enter through the doors at SMK.

One of Copenhagen’s most beautiful churches is between Nyhavn and The Little Mermaid. The church is called Frederiks Kirke but is known as the Marble Church – and that is also the name of the metro station ( Marmorkirken ) just below the church, so it is probably okay to call it that.

The church is from the 18th century, and the beautiful dome is the largest in Scandinavia.

You can come inside for services, and there are often concerts in the church.

Follow the church’s website here .

Admittedly, it gets freezing in Copenhagen in the winter, so we could probably have a ski slope or a ski area as we know it in Sweden or Norway. The problem is that Copenhagen and the rest of Denmark are almost as flat as a pancake.

So what do you do?

You build a ski area on an old waste plant in the middle of Copenhagen – welcome to Copenhill .

I don’t ski, but I have been out on Copenhill several times, which is free if you want to experience the view of Copenhagen – and I can recommend it.

You can either hike to the top (it’s steep but only takes a few minutes) or take the lift up to the top, where the ski slope starts, but where there’s also a large viewing area and a bar.

To ski, you must buy a Ski Pass or a combined Pass with rental equipment .

25. Rundetårn ( The Round Tower )

Rundetårn is, as the name suggests – it means The Round Tower in Danish, a round tower, and with its location right in the centre of Copenhagen, this is undoubtedly the best place to get a 360-degree rooftop view of the entire Danish capital.

Rundetårn is located in the city centre on one of the pedestrian streets, and I must admit that I think this is one of Copenhagen’s best things to do.

And it’s value for money – it only costs DKK 40 to get up to Rundetårn. But then you also have to walk all the way, so for those with walking difficulties and the elderly, it is not the best attraction.

The view from the top is magnificent. In the pictures here, I was up in the tower in December, right around sunset, and it was lovely!

I showed some English friends around Copenhagen, and they also loved Rundetårn, so foreign tourists approve it 😀

You buy tickets at the entrance, but if you have purchased the Copenhagen Card , the Round Tower is also included – just like so many other attractions and experiences in Copenhagen.

Yes, another castle! But this one’s in the city centre, so I recommend dropping by Rosenborg Castle .

Rosenborg Castle is an absolute gem! Tucked away in the city centre, this Renaissance beauty is brimming with history and charm. It’s like stepping back in time, with royal treasures and the exquisite Danish Crown Jewels on display.

And if that’s not enough, the surrounding King’s Garden is a tranquil haven, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.

Frederiksberg Gardens is my favourite park in Copenhagen and it might even be considered a bit of a hidden gem for most tourists.

This park is located a bit away from Copenhagen’s main attractions, so most tourists don’t consider it, but you can reach it by metro extremely quickly from Nørreport.

This is where locals will chill out in the summertime and where I go for a walk if I need to clear my head and be surrounded by beautiful nature.

So if you’re looking for a free thing to do in Copenhagen and you’ve already been to the main attractions in the city centre, I recommend going to Frederiksberg Gardens.

Next to the park are a couple of traditional Danish restaurants where you can get smørrebrød and other conventional Danish dishes.

The Tube Copenhagen is a one-of-a-kind attraction within the Copenhagen Central Station, offering an escape into a realm crafted by eight ingenious artists.

As you step into its 17 immersive rooms, prepare to be whisked away on a whimsical journey through time, tales, and a shot at instant stardom.

The Tube is not your typical walk-through exhibit; it’s a playground of disordered perspectives, bewitching illusions, and reflective wonders that challenge the ordinary at every corner. Your senses will dance with delight as each room unfolds a new narrative, urging your imagination to roam free.

So, if you’re keen to flirt with the extraordinary and dip into a world where art meets adventure, The Tube Copenhagen should sit high on your Danish to-do list.

I hope you found my guide on the best things to do in Copenhagen helpful.

If you’ve any questions about my city, please comment below, and I’ll try my best to help you get a great trip to Denmark.

Read all travel blog posts about Copenhagen .

Copenhagen, our lovely capital, has so much to offer! We’re famous for our charming, colourful Nyhavn harbour, with its lively atmosphere and historic townhouses. And who could forget the enchanting Tivoli Gardens , a true fairy tale amusement park in the city’s heart?

We’re also proud of our sustainable living, bike-friendly streets and plenty of green spaces. And don’t even get me started on our fantastic food scene and cosy cafes. Copenhagen has a little of everything, to be honest.

In this guide, I’ve shared some of my favourite things to do and some hidden gems.

This is a good question that depends significantly on what you are for. I love boat tours in the inner harbour and Christianshavn’s Canal. You can see the city from the seaside and see many exciting things you wouldn’t notice when walking around the city.

There are many good, free things to do in our capital. I recommend lacing up a pair of good shoes and walking around the city centre, where you can make your way past Strøget , Christiansborg (you can go up the tower for free), Nyhavn, The Little Mermaid and many other exciting sights. This guide talks about several free things to do in KBH.

Now I live here, and it is best in summer. Winter is dark and cold, but in summer, Copenhagen is one of the best cities in the world.

Oh, you absolutely cannot visit Copenhagen without trying our beloved smørrebrød . These open-faced sandwiches are a Danish classic, made with a slice of dense, dark rye bread topped with various delicious ingredients – my favourite is the roast pork called flæskesteg . Check out my guide to the best smørrebrød in Copenhagen .

Websites I use to book my trips 👇 • Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay • GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation • Omio is my go-to booking platform for trains in Europe • Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?

Hi Kris! I love reading lists of things to do from locals themselves!

This is such an amazing list and has made me want to go back and explore more!

Thank you so much for sharing your insight to your amazing city!

Thank you very much for your kind words.

Copenhagen is always a good idea 🇩🇰 😀

Am leaving for Copenhagen in a week’s time and havent done any research. this article is like a gift from heaven. thanks a lot!

p/s: also watched the video on how to get to CPH central from the airport. again, its saves me the stress.

Thank you so much, Adam 🙌

Hi! That was really helpful. Thanks a lot, Kris! It’s a shame that the National Aquarium of Denmark (The Blue Planet) is not included in the Copenhagen Card though 🙂 that would be lovely.

Thanks for the kind words 🙏🏻

Yes, I agree! I think it used to be included, so fingers crossed it will return.

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