Copenhagen has a way of capturing hearts. This Danish capital blends fairy tale charm with modern sophistication, creating a city where colorful canals meet cutting-edge design, and centuries-old castles stand alongside innovative architecture.
Whether you’re cycling along canal-side bike lanes, exploring royal palaces, savoring world-class cuisine, or simply soaking up the famous Danish hygge in a cozy cafe, Copenhagen delivers unforgettable experiences at every corner.
Whether you’re cycling along canal-side bike lanes, exploring royal palaces, savoring world-class cuisine, or simply soaking up the famous Danish hygge in a cozy cafe, Copenhagen delivers unforgettable experiences at every corner.
Planning what to do in Copenhagen can feel overwhelming with so many incredible attractions competing for your attention. From iconic landmarks to hidden neighborhoods, from cultural treasures to outdoor adventures, this city offers something for every type of traveler.
This comprehensive guide features 50 amazing things to do in Copenhagen Denmark, carefully curated to help you experience the very best of this magical city. We’ve included everything from must-see attractions to local favorites that most tourists miss.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending a week exploring, whether traveling solo, with your partner, with friends, or bringing the whole family, this guide will help you create the perfect Copenhagen itinerary.
Let’s dive into the best experiences that make Copenhagen one of Europe’s most beloved destinations.
All My Copenhagen Guides. Delivered
Copenhagen attractions, is remarkably compact and easy to navigate. Most major attractions sit within a few kilometers of each other, connected by excellent bike lanes, efficient public transport, and pleasant walking paths.
This accessibility means you can pack incredible experiences into each day without feeling rushed or exhausted. The city’s efficient layout lets you explore historic sites in the morning, enjoy lunch by the harbor, cycle through trendy neighborhoods in the afternoon, and still have energy for evening entertainment.
Copenhagen consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, and visitors immediately feel the benefits. Clean streets, friendly locals, safe neighborhoods, and a genuine sense of contentment create an atmosphere that makes exploring feel effortless and enjoyable.
The Danish concept of hygge permeates everything you’ll experience here. While difficult to translate precisely, hygge embodies coziness, contentment, and cherishing simple pleasures. You’ll feel it in candlelit cafes, waterfront parks, and intimate restaurants throughout your visit.
Understanding Copenhagen’s neighborhoods helps you plan effectively. The historic center (Indre By) contains many major attractions, while surrounding districts like Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Christianshavn each offer distinct personalities worth exploring.
Copenhagen’s things commitment to sustainability enhances your visit. The extensive bike lane network makes cycling the easiest way to get around. Clean harbor water invites swimming in designated areas. Green spaces provide peaceful retreats throughout the urban landscape.
Useful Information
Getting Around Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s public transportation system ranks among Europe’s best. The Metro operates 24/7, with trains arriving every 2-4 minutes during peak hours and every 15-20 minutes during off-peak times.
Four Metro lines currently serve the city, connecting the airport, city center, and major neighborhoods seamlessly. The system is clean, safe, and incredibly easy to navigate even if you don’t speak Danish.
Buses complement the Metro by reaching areas without rail service. Over 60 bus lines crisscross Copenhagen, with digital displays at every stop showing real-time arrival information.
S-trains extend Copenhagen’s reach to suburbs and nearby cities. These regional trains connect to destinations like Helsingør, Roskilde, and coastal areas within an hour’s journey.
Harbor buses offer a unique way to travel. These yellow boats operate as public transport along the waterfront, with stops at key locations. Standard transport tickets work on harbor buses.
Bikes provide the most authentic Copenhagen experience. Nearly half of all residents cycle to work or school daily, and the infrastructure reflects this commitment with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
The Copenhagen Card
The Copenhagen Card grants free entry to over 80 attractions plus unlimited public transportation. It’s available in 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour versions.
This card makes financial sense if you plan to visit multiple major attractions. Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, the National Museum, and canal tours all have significant admission fees that add up quickly.
The free public transportation alone provides substantial value. Instead of buying individual tickets or day passes, you simply flash your Copenhagen Card when boarding.
Calculate your planned activities before purchasing. Add up individual admission prices plus transport costs. If the total exceeds the card price, it’s worth buying.
The card activates when you first use it, not when you purchase it. This flexibility lets you buy in advance without worrying about timing.
Money Matters
Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK), not the Euro. While some tourist businesses accept Euros, they’ll give you a poor exchange rate and change in Kroner anyway.
Cards dominate payment in Copenhagen. Credit and debit cards work everywhere, including small purchases. Many places are completely cashless, especially since the pandemic.
Contactless payments make transactions easy. Apple Pay, Google Pay, and similar services work seamlessly throughout the city.
Tipping isn’t expected in Denmark. Service charges are included in restaurant bills, and staff receive fair wages. Round up for exceptional service, but don’t feel obligated.
Language
Danish is the official language, but English is widely spoken. Most Danes speak excellent English, especially in Copenhagen, and you’ll have no trouble communicating at hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Learning a few Danish phrases shows respect. “Tak” (thank you), “Hej” (hello), and “Undskyld” (excuse me) go a long way.
Free WiFi is available throughout Copenhagen. Hotels, cafes, and many public spaces offer internet access, making it easy to stay connected.
Explore Popular Experiences
1. Rent a Bike and Explore Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s cycling culture is world-famous, and experiencing it yourself is essential. With dedicated bike lanes separating cyclists from both cars and pedestrians, exploring by bike is safe, efficient, and incredibly rewarding.
Renting a bike is straightforward. Many hotels offer bike rentals, sometimes included in your room rate. Apps like Donkey Republic let you unlock bikes throughout the city.
Pretty much everywhere in Copenhagen is within 30 minutes by bike. You can cover tremendous ground in just a few days, seeing far more than you would on foot or public transport.
Before cycling, understand the basic rules. Cycle in the same direction as traffic, never on sidewalks. Signal when turning by extending your arm. Hold up your hand when stopping to alert cyclists behind you.
My recommendation is to aimlessly bike around and explore Copenhagen at your own pace. The freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye makes cycling the perfect way to discover hidden gems.
2. Enjoy Copenhagen’s Many Great Views
Copenhagen offers several excellent viewpoints where you can see across the city. Christiansborg Palace tower provides the highest public viewpoint and it’s completely free to visit.
The Church of Our Savior in Christianshavn features a spectacular spiraling external staircase. You’ll get the best view over the city, though it can get quite claustrophobic and isn’t suitable for those afraid of heights.
The Round Tower offers a more comfortable experience. Unlike the Church of Our Savior, which closes during high winds or wet weather, the Round Tower is open year-round. The climb is also significantly less strenuous, using a spiral ramp instead of stairs.
3. Walk the Havneringen (Harbor Ring)
The Harbor Ring is 13 kilometers long and covers the inner harbor. You can walk or cycle this route, and both options are fantastic.
On this walk, you’ll see lots of interesting architecture, including iconic structures like the Black Diamond library. The route starts close to Nyhavn and goes down to revitalized Sydhavn before coming back up.
This walk is great year-round, though it gets quite windy in winter. It’s an excellent way to explore Copenhagen outside the historic center, which is something everyone should do.
4. Visit Kastellet
Kastellet is one of Copenhagen’s most peaceful places for an evening stroll. This star-shaped citadel dates back to the 17th century and has been an important part of Danish defense for centuries.
Though the military is still present here, you can walk around and enjoy the grounds for free. The fortress takes around an hour to walk around.
You’ll find a small museum here that’s quite interesting. The green ramparts and old military buildings create a unique atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy city center.
5. Relax at Amager Strand Beach
Amager Strand is Copenhagen’s most popular beach, where locals flock during summer months. On clear days, you can see Sweden’s Turning Torso building from the shore.
The beach is great for running and cycling, with paths extending for several kilometers. You’ll find changing rooms, showers, and places to fill your water bottle.
If you walk down the beach, you’ll eventually reach Kastrup Søbad, a bathing area with an iconic spiraling pier that’s become a Copenhagen landmark.
Take the Metro to Amager Strand station to get there easily.
6. Take a Boat Tour Around Copenhagen
Exploring Copenhagen from the water offers a completely different perspective on the city. You’ll see architecture and landmarks from angles impossible to experience on land.
While you can take the yellow Harbor Bus (included in public transport passes), booking an actual tour provides more value. You’ll see more waterways and learn about Copenhagen’s maritime history from knowledgeable guides.
Stromma and Nettobådene are the two main operators. Tours typically last one hour and depart from Nyhavn and other central locations.
Most tours pass the Little Mermaid, Christiansborg Palace, the Opera House, and through Christianshavn’s charming canals.
7. Wander Along Nyhavn
Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s most iconic location. The colorful 17th-century townhouses lining the canal create the city’s most photographed scene.
Historic wooden ships moored in the harbor add authentic maritime character. Hans Christian Andersen lived here at three different addresses and wrote many of his famous fairy tales in these buildings.
Visit first thing in the morning for the best experience. Nyhavn gets extremely crowded during the day, but early morning offers peaceful atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
The restaurants along Nyhavn are quite expensive and the food is average. I recommend going elsewhere for meals and just enjoying drinks by the water instead.
8. Discover Christianshavn
Once you’ve checked out Nyhavn, walk over the bridge to Christianshavn. This neighborhood is one of Copenhagen’s smallest and most beautiful.
Christianshavn has been part of Copenhagen since 1675, but it was an independent town before that. It maintains that bohemian spirit today.
The main canal (Christianshavns Kanal) is absolutely worth checking out. You’ll find nice cafes and bodegas throughout the area. HANS Coffee is particularly excellent.
Take the Metro to Christianshavn Station to get there easily.
9. Have a Picnic in Kongens Have
Kongens Have (The King’s Garden) is one of Copenhagen’s nicest parks. You’ll find beautiful Rosenborg Castle here, and during summer it’s a popular spot for picnics.
Having a picnic is one of the best ways to enjoy Copenhagen on a budget. Grab snacks from a nearby grocery store and enjoy them in the gardens.
If you visit outside spring or summer, the park is still a lovely place for a walk. The formal garden layout and mature trees are beautiful year-round.
10. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace
Amalienborg is Denmark’s royal residence, and you can watch the changing of the guard for free around noon daily.
The parade starts at 11:27 each day from the barracks close to Rosenborg Castle. The guards march down Gothersgade before arriving at Amalienborg Palace around noon.
It’s quite a spectacle worth seeing if you’re in the area. You can also buy tickets to explore Amalienborg’s interior if you want to learn more about Danish royal history.
11. Visit Sydhavnstippen
Sydhavnstippen is a hidden gem that most tourists never discover. This nature area in South Harbor offers a small beach and is home to sheep and sometimes alpacas.
It’s a wonderful place to escape the city without actually leaving Copenhagen. The Metro expansion in 2024 made getting here even easier.
Take the M4 line to Mozarts Plads, then it’s a 15-20 minute walk. You can also easily reach it by bike. Consider checking out nearby Valbyparken while you’re in the area.
12. Explore Dyrehaven
Dyrehaven is a vast deer park just north of Copenhagen. It’s perfect for spending an afternoon when you want a break from urban exploration.
You’ll find plenty of deer roaming freely, along with a nice cafe. The area is great for both walking and biking.
Each November, you can attend the Hubertusjagt horse race, a traditional event that’s been happening for decades.
Take the S-train from Copenhagen Central Station to Klampenborg. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
13. Rent Your Own Boat
If you like exploring from the water but don’t want to be on a tour with strangers, rent your own boat instead.
GoBoat is the main boat rental service in Copenhagen. You pick up your boat from Islands Brygge and can rent for 1, 2, or 3 hours depending on your preferences.
Bring snacks and drinks, and enjoy seeing Copenhagen’s landmarks from the water at your own pace. It’s especially wonderful during warm months.
14. Visit Christiansborg Palace and Slotsholmen
Christiansborg Palace houses Denmark’s government. The observation tower is completely free and offers Copenhagen’s highest public viewpoint.
Wandering around Slotsholmen outside the palace is also free and quite beautiful. Marmorbroen (The Marble Bridge) offers fantastic photo opportunities.
There’s a hidden garden close to the War Museum that’s worth finding. The palace courtyard sometimes has horses, adding to the royal atmosphere.
Take the Metro to Gammel Strand to get there. You’ll see Christiansborg Palace immediately when you leave the station.
15. Walk Around The Lakes
The Lakes are my favorite running spot in Copenhagen. These three artificial lakes used to form part of the city’s defense system but now serve as the city’s most popular recreational area.
You can easily branch off into multiple neighborhoods from The Lakes. There are plenty of cafes along the shores where you can stop for coffee or lunch.
During summer, you can rent swan-shaped pedal boats from close to Dronning Louises Bro. The Lakes occasionally freeze in winter, though they’re rarely thick enough to walk on safely.
16. Eat and Drink in Kødbyen
Kødbyen (The Meatpacking District) is one of my favorite places in Copenhagen. This former industrial area now houses some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.
Warpigs is my personal favorite, serving excellent barbecue and craft beer. You’ll also find a cool mini-golf bar and plenty of nightlife options.
Kødbyen is very close to Copenhagen Central Station, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the city.
17. Discover Nordhavn
Nordhavn has undergone incredible regeneration and is worth exploring. It’s a great place to swim or relax on a summer evening.
You can explore the Forgotten Giants art installation located here. The harbor views are spectacular, especially during sunset.
For food, Andersen & Maillard serves excellent pastries, while John & Woo is great for brunch.
18. Explore Frederiksberg
Frederiksberg is technically its own municipality but feels seamlessly connected to Copenhagen. It’s one of the most desirable areas with wide streets and beautiful architecture.
Frederiksberg Have (Frederiksberg Gardens) is definitely worth visiting. You’ll find several excellent cafes and restaurants in the area, including Forno a Legna for pizza.
The architecture in Frederiksberg looks different from other parts of Copenhagen, giving the area a distinct character.
19. Visit Assistens Cemetery
Assistens Cemetery is the burial ground for many famous Danes, including Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard.
Even without visiting specific graves, the cemetery is a beautiful place for a walk. Locals use it as a peaceful park, which might seem unusual but reflects Danish attitudes toward death and remembrance.
Take the Metro to Nørrebros Runddel. The cemetery is almost directly outside the station.
20. Go Swimming in the Harbor
Copenhagen’s harbor water is clean enough to swim in, which is quite remarkable for a capital city. You’ll find several bathing zones throughout the city.
Islands Brygge and Kalvebod Brygge are two popular locations. Sydhavn offers a less crowded alternative.
Many Copenhageners swim year-round, including during winter. If you want to unleash your inner Viking, try winter bathing for an unforgettable experience.
21. Try a Sauna Session
Copenhagen’s sauna culture has grown significantly in recent years. CopenHot is one of the best sauna spots, offering traditional sauna experiences.
La Banchina is another excellent option. This restaurant and wine bar also has a popular sauna that you can book in advance.
The combination of sauna and harbor swimming is increasingly popular among both locals and visitors.
22. Explore Holmen and Refshaleøen
These are Copenhagen’s two most underrated neighborhoods. Originally important for shipping and military purposes, they’ve been repurposed into dynamic districts.
Refshaleøen is home to Reffen, Copenhagen’s best street food market. Visit during summer for the full experience.
You’ll also find Lille Bakery here, which serves some of the city’s best pastries and bread.
The military area in Holmen allows daytime visitors. It’s quite picturesque and worth exploring. Take the 2A bus to reach Refshaleøen easily.
23. Visit the Design Museum
Danish design has influenced the world, and the Design Museum is the best place to learn about this heritage.
The museum has several exhibitions, including Danish Modern, which showcases iconic furniture and objects that defined Scandinavian design.
The museum also has a nice garden area. Even if you’re not particularly interested in design, the exhibitions are engaging and beautifully presented.
24. Explore Copenhagen Contemporary
Copenhagen Contemporary is a modern art museum located in Refshaleøen. It moved from its original location opposite Nyhavn to this more spacious industrial setting.
The exhibitions change regularly, showcasing both Danish and international contemporary artists. The museum hosts events throughout the year worth checking out.
The industrial space itself adds to the experience, with high ceilings and raw concrete creating the perfect backdrop for contemporary art.
25. Experience Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, opening in 1843. It’s great for both kids and adults, offering something for everyone.
Even if you only buy admission without ride tickets, Tivoli is worth visiting. The gardens are beautiful, and there’s plenty of entertainment, food, and atmosphere to enjoy.
The park opens at distinct times throughout the year. Check the schedule before planning your visit to ensure it’s open.
Tivoli transforms for different seasons. Halloween brings spooky decorations, while Christmas creates magical festive atmosphere with markets and lights.
26. Check Out Carlsberg Byen
Carlsberg Byen is an up-and-coming district that’s undergone significant renovation. New houses, cafes, and restaurants have transformed this former industrial area.
Cadence Bakery is worth visiting for excellent bread and pastries. Aurora Ismageri serves fantastic ice cream.
You can also visit the Carlsberg Experience to learn about “probably the greatest beer in the world.”
Take the train to Carlsberg station, or cycle there easily from Vesterbro and the city center.
27. Hike in Kalvebod Fælled
Kalvebod Fælled is a huge nature park that feels miles away from the city despite being easily accessible. It’s wonderful for hiking year-round.
The Amarminoen trail going to Dragør is particularly beautiful. This walk takes several hours but rewards you with nature, wildlife, and coastal views.
There are shelters where you can stay overnight if you want a true nature experience. The paths can be rocky, so appropriate footwear is important.
28. Go Bakery Hopping
Copenhagen has incredible bakeries, and exploring them is a delicious way to spend time. Juno and Meyers are classics, especially for cinnamon buns.
HART, BRØD, Sankt Peders Bageri, and Andersen Bakery all serve outstanding pastries and bread. Each has its own specialties worth trying.
Emmerys makes the best hindbærsnitter (raspberry shortbread) in Copenhagen. Don’t leave without trying Danish pastries, which Danes actually call wienerbrød.
29. Have Brunch at Mad & Kaffe
Mad & Kaffe stands out even in a city known for excellent brunch. You choose 3 or 5 small dishes from the menu, creating your own combination.
Portions are reasonably sized, so you won’t leave hungry. The food quality is consistently excellent across all locations.
Book a table in advance because it gets very busy. Mad & Kaffe is popular with both tourists and locals for good reason.
30. Enjoy Communal Dinner at Absalon
Absalon captures Vesterbro’s community spirit perfectly. Every evening, you can enjoy an affordable communal dinner served buffet-style.
Both locals and tourists come here, creating a wonderful mix of people. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
Book at least a few weeks in advance because this place fills up quickly. The bar serves reasonably priced drinks to accompany your meal.
31. Sample Copenhagen’s Craft Beers
Copenhagen’s craft beer scene rivals any city in the world. Mikkeller is the most famous brand, with bars throughout the city.
BRUS serves beers from To Øl brewery and has excellent food. Too Old to Die Young offers beers from numerous brands in a great atmosphere.
ÅBEN is another brewery with locations in Kødbyen, Carlsberg Byen, and other parts of Copenhagen. The beer quality across these breweries is consistently high.
32. Visit BaneGaarden
BaneGaarden is a hidden gem in Sydhavn that most tourists never discover. This nice courtyard hosts shops, drinking establishments, and outdoor seating areas.
It’s quite small but perfect for experiencing authentic Copenhagen atmosphere away from tourist crowds. Several events happen throughout the year.
Take the S-train to Sydhavn station, or cycle there for the best experience.
33. Explore Freetown Christiania
Freetown Christiania is a fascinating social experiment that’s been operating since 1971. This former military base was taken over by squatters and declared autonomous.
Christiania has its own flag and operates independently in many ways. The area features unique architecture, art, and pleasant nature.
Photography isn’t allowed in some places, particularly on Pusher Street. Respect these rules to avoid problems.
Beyond the controversial aspects, Christiania is beautiful and worth exploring. Consider booking a guided tour for proper context and understanding.
34. Admire Modern Architecture
Copenhagen’s modern architecture deserves attention alongside the cute old houses. The Black Diamond library and Opera House are particularly impressive.
The Cirkelbroen bridge is one of my favorites, offering both function and artistic value. The Royal Danish Playhouse is also worth seeing.
While Ørestad isn’t very interesting overall, the 8-TALLET building is quite cool and worth checking out if you’re interested in modern architecture.
35. Discover Nyboder’s Old Houses
Nyboder feels like an independent village within Copenhagen. These yellow townhouse rows create charming streets worth wandering.
A small museum opens on Sundays from 11:00 to 14:00, costing just 20 DKK. The museum shows how sailors and their families lived in these houses historically.
Take the train or Metro to Østerport to reach Nyboder easily.
36. Visit the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden offers several species of plants and beautiful green spaces. The greenhouse requires an admission ticket, but you can walk the external areas for free.
The garden is close to Nørreport Station, making it very accessible. Dogs aren’t allowed, and you can’t cycle through the grounds.
It’s a peaceful escape from the city without leaving the center.
37. See the Little Mermaid (or Skip It)
The Little Mermaid is Copenhagen’s most famous statue, but honestly, it’s quite underwhelming. The statue is very small and usually surrounded by crowds.
If you want to see it, combine it with walking Langelinie, which is actually quite nice. But don’t make a special trip just for the statue.
The walk from the city center takes about 30 minutes, which is a long way for such a small statue.
38. Skip Lagkagehuset Bakery
While I’ve mentioned great bakeries, Lagkagehuset is one to skip. It’s a generic chain that you can find in the UK and US (called Ole & Steen there).
Besides their fastelavnsboller and strawberry tarts, most items are quite mediocre. You’re better off visiting Juno, Meyers, or the other excellent bakeries mentioned earlier.
39. Avoid Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours
Hop-on, hop-off buses work well in some cities, but not Copenhagen. The city is terrible for driving, and you’ll spend lots of time stuck in traffic.
Copenhagen is made for walking and cycling. Rent a bike, take a canal tour, or join a walking tour instead for a much better experience.
40. Skip the Instagram Spot at Superkilen
The Superkilen park itself is actually cool, but that Instagram spot with squiggly lines is painfully overrated.
The lines aren’t particularly photogenic, and you’ll be fighting crowds trying to get the same shot as everyone else. Visit the park for skating or to explore Nørrebro, but skip the Instagram chase.
41. Avoid Strøget Unless Shopping
Strøget is Copenhagen’s main shopping street, and unless you’re actually shopping, there’s no reason to spend time here.
It’s always crowded with tourists and lacks the charm of other Copenhagen neighborhoods. Go literally anywhere else instead.
42. Skip Istedgade Near Central Station
The part of Istedgade closest to Copenhagen Central Station is one of the city’s seediest areas. It’s not dangerous but definitely not pleasant.
Don’t let this be your first impression of Copenhagen. The city is much better than this one unfortunate street.
The part of Istedgade by Enghave Plads is actually really nice, so the street improves dramatically as you move away from the station.
43. Visit the National Gallery (SMK)
The National Gallery houses Denmark’s leading art collection. Works by Rembrandt, Mantegna, Rubens, and many other masters fill the galleries.
The collections span 700 years of art history. You could easily spend hours exploring paintings, sculptures, and installations.
The museum is close to Østerport Station and easy to combine with visiting Rosenborg Castle or the Botanical Garden.
44. Explore the Marble Church
Frederiks Kirke, known as the Marble Church, sits between Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid. The beautiful dome is Scandinavia’s largest.
The church is from the 18th century and hosts regular services and concerts. You can visit during open hours to admire the impressive interior.
The Marmorkirken Metro station sits directly below the church, making access incredibly easy.
45. Experience CopenHill
CopenHill is a ski slope built on top of a waste-to-energy plant. Only in Copenhagen would they create such an innovative combination.
It’s free to hike to the top and enjoy the view of Copenhagen. The bar at the top serves drinks with fantastic views.
To actually ski, you need to buy a pass and possibly rent equipment. But even just visiting for the view is worthwhile.
46. Climb Rundetårn (The Round Tower)
The Round Tower offers 360-degree views of Copenhagen from a unique vantage point. Built in 1642, it’s one of the city’s most interesting historic structures.
Instead of stairs, a spiral ramp leads to the top, which originally allowed horses to carry equipment up. The climb isn’t strenuous and takes about 10 minutes.
Entry costs only 40 DKK, making it excellent value. The view from the top is magnificent, especially around sunset.
The Copenhagen Card includes free entry to the Round Tower.
47. See Rosenborg Castle and Crown Jewels
Rosenborg Castle houses the Danish Crown Jewels in secure basement vaults. These priceless treasures include coronation crowns and royal regalia.
The castle itself dates to the early 1600s and showcases royal life across centuries. Each room contains original furnishings and decorations.
Kongens Have surrounds the castle. This beautiful park is perfect for relaxing before or after your castle visit.
The Copenhagen Card includes entry to Rosenborg Castle.
48. Visit Frederiksberg Gardens
Frederiksberg Gardens is my favorite park in Copenhagen. It’s located away from main attractions, so most tourists miss it entirely.
This is where locals chill during summer and where I go when I need to clear my head. The beautiful nature and peaceful atmosphere are perfect for relaxing.
You can reach it quickly by Metro from Nørreport. Next to the park are traditional Danish restaurants serving smørrebrød.
49. Try The Tube Copenhagen
The Tube Copenhagen is a unique attraction inside Copenhagen Central Station. Eight artists created 17 immersive rooms that play with perspectives and illusions.
It’s not your typical museum. Each room tells a different story, challenging your perception and encouraging creativity.
If you want something unusual and artistic, The Tube should be on your list.
50. Enjoy a Traditional Danish Lunch
Don’t leave Copenhagen without trying traditional Danish food, especially smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches on dark rye bread).
These aren’t ordinary sandwiches. They’re carefully composed dishes with specific traditional combinations, often including pickled herring, roast beef, or other Danish specialties.
Restaurant Schønnemann has served smørrebrød since 1877. Other excellent options include restaurants in Torvehallerne and traditional lunch spots throughout the city.
Try flæskesteg (roast pork), frikadeller (Danish meatballs), and don’t forget Danish pastries for dessert.
Must-Do Experiences in Copenhagen
Planning Your Copenhagen Adventure
With 50 incredible things to do in Copenhagen Denmark, planning becomes crucial. Not everything will fit into one trip, and that’s okay. Prioritize based on your interests and travel style.
First-time visitors should focus on iconic experiences. Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, canal tours, and major palaces capture Copenhagen’s essence. These classic attractions earned their popularity for good reason.
Return visitors can dig deeper. Explore neighborhoods like Refshaleøen, Sydhavn, and Frederiksberg. Visit specialized museums, try restaurants beyond the tourist areas, and experience Copenhagen like a local.
Seasonal considerations affect what’s available. Reffen street food market only operates spring through autumn. Tivoli opens at specific times throughout the year. Harbor swimming makes most sense during warmer months.
Balance famous attractions with hidden gems. Spending every day at major tourist sites becomes exhausting. Mix popular spots with quieter neighborhoods, parks, and local experiences.
Best Ways to Experience Copenhagen
Cycling transforms how you experience Copenhagen. The freedom to explore at your own pace, stop whenever something catches your eye, and cover significant ground makes bikes ideal for discovery.
Walking works perfectly for specific neighborhoods. Spend a morning exploring Christianshavn on foot, an afternoon wandering Nørrebro’s streets, or an evening strolling along the harbor.
Public transport fills gaps efficiently. The Metro reaches areas too far for comfortable walking, while buses connect neighborhoods that cycling might miss.
Canal tours provide unique perspectives impossible from land. Seeing Copenhagen from the water reveals architecture and urban planning in ways that walking and cycling cannot.
Food experiences deserve dedicated time. Whether trying traditional smørrebrød, exploring Torvehallerne market, or experiencing New Nordic cuisine, Copenhagen’s food scene rewards attention.
Creating Your Copenhagen Itinerary
Three days allows hitting major highlights. Day one could cover the historic center including Nyhavn, Christiansborg, and the Round Tower. Day two might focus on Christianshavn, canal tours, and harbor swimming. Day three could explore Vesterbro, Kødbyen, and Tivoli Gardens.
Five days provides comfortable exploration. Add day trips to Kronborg Castle or Louisiana Museum. Dedicate time to neighborhoods like Frederiksberg and Nørrebro. Try more restaurants and cafes without rushing.
A week lets you truly understand Copenhagen. Explore every neighborhood mentioned, take multiple day trips, revisit favorite spots, and adopt a more relaxed pace that mirrors how locals experience their city.
Weekend trips require focus. Choose three or four major attractions, one neighborhood to explore thoroughly, and leave time for spontaneous discovery. Don’t try cramming everything in.
When to Visit Copenhagen
Summer brings long days and warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. From June through August, you can pack experiences from morning until late evening when sunset finally arrives.
The downside is crowds and higher prices. Popular attractions fill up, hotels charge premium rates, and booking ahead becomes essential for restaurants and activities.
Spring and fall offer sweet spots. April, May, September, and October provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds. You’ll still enjoy comfortable temperatures while sharing the city with fewer tourists.
Winter has unique appeal despite cold and darkness. Christmas markets, Tivoli’s winter season, cozy cafes, and the genuine hygge atmosphere create magical experiences. Just pack appropriately and embrace the season.
Practical Tips for Copenhagen
Book accommodation early, especially for summer visits. Copenhagen’s popularity means hotels fill quickly, and prices rise with demand.
Buy the Copenhagen Card if visiting multiple attractions. Calculate carefully, but most visitors save money while gaining convenience.
Rent bikes for maximum flexibility. Even if you’re not a regular cyclist, Copenhagen’s infrastructure makes riding safe and enjoyable.
Learn basic cycling rules before hitting the streets. Understanding proper behavior prevents accidents and angry locals.
Pack layers regardless of season. Copenhagen’s weather changes quickly, and being prepared keeps you comfortable.
Try food beyond tourist areas. The best restaurants and cafes often sit in residential neighborhoods away from obvious tourist zones.
Embrace spontaneity within your plan. Leave room for discoveries, recommendations from locals, and experiences you didn’t anticipate.
Respect local customs and spaces. Christiania’s photography rules, cycling etiquette, and general consideration for residents ensures positive
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