There are a lot of things to do in Copenhagen.
After all, the Danish capital is one of the best cities in Northern Europe.
It has a beautiful city hall square. (You can’t miss Copenhagen City hall) right outside the central station.
We know the city for its food, happiness, and architecture. And there is always something worth doing and seeing.
Here are the top things to do in Copenhagen in 2023.
Tivoli Garden
Tivoli Gardens ranks first in most articles about “things to do in Copenhagen”. And with good reason!
Tivoli Gardens is the second oldest theme park in the world and the most iconic site in Copenhagen. Started in 1843, this theme park, which has an old romantic representation of the Orient, houses lush gardens, and exotic buildings. Plus, thousands of colorful lights. All of which come together to create an otherworldly ambiance.
The park’s perfect for kids of all ages, has a cemented place in history, and offers a unique experience. Basically, Tivoli Gardens is a must-visit when traveling in Copenhagen.
Those who love the thrill of roller coasters and heart-pounding theme park rides will have a blast. On rides like Aquila, the Astronomer, the Golden Tower, and the Demon.
Walt Disney, who took inspiration from the park to create Disney Land, visited this theme park many times. Connect with your inner child at one of the world’s oldest theme parks.
Biking Around the City
It wouldn’t surprise me if about now you were asking yourself, “Why is biking one of the best things to do in Copenhagen?”.
From the first moment you step off the Eurail Train, you’ll notice hundreds (if not thousands of bikes) outside the central station. Biking and Copenhagen are as synonymous with pasta and Italy. It’s part of their culture and a key component of many people’s lives in the city.
There are miles of world-class bike lanes and roads around the city. And while getting on a bike for the first time might seem intimidating, you soon find that’s easy to navigate the city. (And it’s also the fastest way to get around). If you want a little practice before hitting the busy roads, then the morning and evening rush hours. After you gained some confidence, try biking the Harbour Ring; This 13 km trail takes you on an epic journey to some of the biggest sites in the city.
Nyhavn
Are you an intrepid traveler who wants to avoid other tourists at all costs? Then Nyhavn, ISN’T the place for you.
Nyhavn, translated as Harbour in English, could easily sit at the number one spot for things to do in Copenhagen. And one of the most scenic areas of the city. There’s a good chance that a majority of the pictures of Copenhagen you’ve seen are photos of Nyhavn.
This historic waterfront’s the most famous neighborhood in the city. In Nyhavn, old wooden tall ships still line the canals, walkways are flanked on either side by large, and colorful buildings. And the stony streets are lined with charming shops and restaurants. Nyhavn’s an enticing neighborhood and one that captures the charm and atmosphere of Copenhagen.
If you’re traveling to Copenhagen during peak season, don’t let the sizeable crowds discourage you. Nyhavn maintains its beauty even with large groups of other travelers.
For my fellow book lovers and historians, it also has some notable landmarks. Notably, there are three former houses of Hans Christian Andersen can be found at homes 18, 20, and 67.
Little Mermaid
Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish author, has left an enormous mark on Copenhagen – as well as the rest of the world. Arguably, the renowned author’s most famous fairy tale is the Little Mermaid. Another famous Dane and artist, Edvard Eriksen, wanted to pay tribute to Anderson and this tale by constructing a statue along the coast.
Eriksen’s statue, made in 1913, depicts a woman (maybe a mermaid) looking out to sea. While the statue’s small, it’s a great place to get away from the city center, take in the beauty of northern Copenhagen, and grab some splendid pictures. This a small, and perhaps overrated, thing to do in Copenhagen. The Little Mermaid Statue lies in the northeast part of the city, near where the cruise ships come to port. Based on the story by Danish legend HC Andersen.
One of the best ways to get a cool view of the statue is via a canal tour.
Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle’s probably the most recognizable building in the city – right up there with Christiansborg Palace. Rosenborg Castle (Or Rosenborg Slot) is a must for those interested in history and architecture. But nature lovers will also appreciate the gardens. Rosenborg Castle gardens maintain the title of the most visited park in Copenhagen, just one of the fun Denmark facts travelers should know. They are also the oldest park in the city, dating back to the 17th century.
Rosenborg Castle inside is ornate, to put it mildly. To this day, the rooms stand elaborately decorated. However, there’s a good chance that the King’s Gardens will find the most impressive. Today, the castle lingers as a symbol of the Dutch renaissance. Rosenborg Castle is just one of the many attractions you can visit for free using your Copenhagen card.
Eat At Some of the Best Restaurants in the World.
This may come as a shock – brace yourself people – but Copenhagen has busted onto the food scene with a smoldering intensity. (It came as a shock to me when I first found out.)
Over the last decade has become one of the best cities to eat in the world.
They have awarded 23 Michelin stars to 16 restaurants across Copenhagen. And no restaurant is more famous than Noma. Restaurant magazine has ranked as the best restaurant in the world in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014 Noma. And in those years it didn’t win first, it often took 2nd place.
If you’re a foodie – and money isn’t an issue, then eating is hands down one of the best things to do in Copenhagen.
Torvehallerne Market
While Noma is a foodie’s dream, it might not be in our price range (The tasting menu starts at almost $300 a person). For those of us with more modest budgets, we can steer clear of the Michelin-star restaurants and head to Torvehallerne Market.
They packed these buzzing markets to the brim with food stalls – many of them giving you a massive bang for your buck. There’s everything from fresh fish vendors to strange cocktails to sip on. As you wander the stalls and halls (did I just rhythm), you can sample a range of inspired and new dishes without breaking your budget.
Strøget
Strøget’s famous in Copenhagen. It’s also one of the most touristy parts of the city. Strøget’s a pedestrian street that stretches across downtown. (It’s one of the longest pedestrian streets in the whole of Europe.) Lining the street are high-end shops, fancy restaurants, one of the biggest malls in the world, and a handful of independent shops.
Frederiksberggade marks Strøget’s starting point. From there, the street runs through both the new and old squares to Kongens Nytorv where it ends. From the central station, it is under a ten-minute walk to Frederiksberggade.
Strøget’s great for shopping (window shopping included). And enjoying Copenhagen’s atmosphere, and people-watching.
Strøget Copenhagen Opening Hours. Most of the stores are open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. And Saturday, many stores open at 9 a.m. but shut their doors: at 3 p.m. Sunday most stores are closed.
Pro tip: Strøget pronunciation – “stroy-it.”
Alternative Walking Tour
Copenhagen’s a very diverse and unique city. Alternative walking tours aim to show you the hidden corners of the capital, where most travelers never venture. Saunter through Copenhagen’s hippest neighborhoods like the up-and-coming Vesterbro. The “green” loving free state of Christiana, and even the lesser-known red-light district.
More than that, many tours explain the city’s unusual perspective on art, theatre, homelessness, and government.
Carlsberg
The Carlsberg Group has held a spot in the top 5 biggest breweries in the world for as long as I can remember. The Carlsberg Brewery offers an exciting tour of the very first brewery in the city.
Along the tour, visitors uncover a handful of epic things to do in Copenhagen. Like the largest collection of beer bottles in the world. And the elephant gate (both of which we’ll talk about later). The tour takes you up close to the original machines that helped put the company on the map. And of course, what brewery tour doesn’t give you some free beer?
The Carlsberg brewery gives you a peek into what makes this brand the most established all over the world. A tour shows the intertwined history of beer and Copenhagen. And will ignite your passion for Danish beer. Right now, the brewery’s closed for restoration, but usually, you’re granted free entry to this site with the Copenhagen Card.
King’s Garden
The Kings Garden (Also referred to as Rosenborg Castle Gardens) maintains the dual title of the most visited park in Copenhagen. And the oldest park in the city – dating back to the 17th century. Built during the rule of Christian IV. While walking the gardens, your mind quickly wanders to picturing danish royalty walking along the same paths. During the summer, the park has a puppet theatre with two performances a day (except Mondays).
These spectacular gardens have huge flowerbeds (depending on the time of year). Much attention has been drawn to the fact that these gardens are the lushest place in Copenhagen. And they continue to attract over 2.5 million visitors annually.
Inside the park, you’ll find the renowned Hans Christian Andersen statue. As well as the Hercules Pavilion, and the sculptor-heavy herbaceous rose garden, which also has a cafe and adventure playground.
Events, concerts, and ballets are often hosted in the park, so you never know what you might find.
Bakken Amusement Park
Welcome to the oldest amusement park in the world. This amusement park has been sitting in this spot since 1583….1583! And while not as famous as Tivoli, Bakken Amusement Park’s still worth a visit to experience the games, rides, entertainment, and food. The park doesn’t just cater to kids but offers a blend of attractions that appeal to everyone in the family. And – in the typical Danish fashion – there are a couple of pubs in bars in the park.
Visiting Bakken Amusement Park’s like traveling back in time. Most of the rides are dated and old compared to today’s standards. But there’s a deep sense of nostalgia drenches every inch of the park. Bakken’s an icon of Denmark, and to think of the impact that this park has had on the world from Tivoli Gardens to Disney World and Universal, and great thing to do in Copenhagen for those traveling as a family.
The park is a 10-minute drive north of Copenhagen, in the Dyrehaven Woods. There are 32 rides for people of all ages, and 78 other fun attractions. Oh yeah, and did I forget to mention that the park has a free entrance?
Design Museum Danmark
Everything inside and outside of the Design Museum, Danmark represents an exquisite work of art. The museum simultaneously pays homage to the legacy of Denmark’s design influence. Even the old baroque buildings dates back to the 18th century.
Time flies by as visitors spend 2 -3 hours enjoying moving between the different contemporary danish designs. The Design Museum Danmark also has arts and crafts and everything from glass to textiles to fashion. In the summer, there’s a beautiful garden to relax in and a cafe to get a caffeine boost.
If you even have the slightest interest in design, then this is a must-stop when planning your list of things to do in Copenhagen. They also have free tours on Sunday afternoons. From the national museum of Denmark to the Musical Instruments Museum, there is no shortage of exhibits to see in Copenhagen. However, this museum’s one not-to-miss.
The museum’s found in the historic Copenhagen area, Frederiksstaden
Addres: Bredgade 68, Copenhagen 1260 Denmark
Jægersborggade
Once a dodgy part of town, Jægersborggade has had a renaissance, and been reborn as one of the coolest, safest, and most visited streets in the city. The change started with Christian Puglisi, a famed chef in the city, who opened a restaurant on this street. Soon after opening, the restaurant earned a Michelin Star.
As more people flocked to Jægersborggade to eat at the restaurant, crime and drug activity when down. Soon, other quaint bakeries, cafes, galleries, and shops were opening. Now Jægersborggade’s a buzzing street in the city with some of Copenhagen’s best restaurants, wine bars, cafes, and organic markets and shops.
Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen
In the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark is a unique community known as Freetown Christiania – one of the things that Denmark is known for. A group of hippies who squatted on abandoned military land created this self-proclaimed “free town” in 1971.
Today, Christiania is a thriving community of artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs. Who enjoys a high level of autonomy from the Danish government.
One of the major attractions of Christiania is its relaxed attitude towards drug use. While cannabis is technically illegal in Denmark, it is openly consumed and sold in Christiania.
This has led to some friction with local authorities, who have unsuccessfully tried to shut down the community frequently. Despite its controversies, Christiania remains one of Europe’s most interesting. And vibrant neighborhoods.
Visitors can explore its narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively markets. While enjoying a genuine sense of freedom and creativity.
Kronborg Castle
Kronborg Castle is a fortress in Helsingør, Denmark. King Eric of Pomerania originally built it in the late 15th century. The castle has been used as a royal residence, a prison, and a military stronghold over the years. Today, it is open to the public as a museum. Kronborg Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Denmark.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and halls, including its grand hall and chapel. There are also exhibits on Danish history and culture, as well as displays of armor and weapons from the Middle Ages.
The castle is located close to Copenhagen, making it easy for visitors to explore both Kronborg and the city itself. Besides its historical significance, Kronborg Castle is also known for its beautiful architecture. And stunning views of the sea. And easy to reach from Copenhagen Central Station.
Gefion Fountain Copenhagen
The Gefion Fountain is a Copenhagen landmark in the city’s harbor. It was designed by Danish sculptor Anders Bundgaard and was inaugurated in 1908. The fountain features a statue of the Norse goddess Gefion. Who is said to have created Zealand, one of Denmark’s largest islands, by plowing it with four oxen? Gefion Fountain is one of Copenhagen’s most popular tourist attractions. And its ornate Art nouveau design makes it a favorite subject for photographers.
Frederiksborg Castle
Frederiksborg Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Copenhagen, Denmark. It is an enormous castle on the small island of Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen. The castle was built by King Christian IV in the 17th century and was originally called the Royal Palace. It is now the official residence of the Danish monarch. A beautiful park with old trees and a wide variety of flowers surrounds the castle. This beautiful palace is a great place to visit for those who enjoy European history, architecture, and gardens.
Christianborg Palace
The Christiansborg Palace is a large, beautiful brick building on the islet of Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen. It is home to the Danish Parliament, the Danish Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court of Denmark. They also used the palace for royal receptions and official dinners. And state banquets; it is frequently used for other official occasions as well. And Christiansborg Palace and one of the best things to do in Copenhagen.
Amalienborg Palace
The Amalienborg Palace is home to the living quarters of Denmark’s royal family.
The Amalienborg Palace is a Rococo structure with a symmetrical design. It is comprising four identical classical palace facades with rococo interiors. The beautiful octagonal courtyard has a fountain at its center and is the only part of the palace open to the public. And Amalienborg castle is one of the most stunning buildings in Copenhagen.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
The NY Carlsberg Glyptotek is one of my favorite museums in the world. The collection is gorgeous, and the museum itself is such a beautiful, peaceful place to spend some time. It was the private art collection of Carl Jacobsen. You can wander the large, open-air rooms, surrounded by sculptures and fountains, on your own or with a knowledgeable guide. It’s free admission on Tuesdays, which makes it inexpensive. But an incredible cultural experience in a city that’s already friendly to tourists. I love this place. And a must-see on your Copenhagen Itinerary.
Copenhagen Opera House
The Copenhagen Opera House has been referred to as one of the best examples of a new opera house design. The complex integrates with its surroundings. Blending into the existing cityscape at street level. But rising dramatically over the city above. Its unique shape resembles two giant waves on either side of a central performance space that is crowned by an “island” stage. A platform set off from its surroundings by steeply raked seating and an overhead canopy that floats above it like a cloud.
The National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum)
The Statens Museum or the National Gallery of Denmark is the country’s largest art museum, housing over 5,000 works. The collection spans over seven centuries of international art. And includes a wide variety of pieces. From traditional paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs to installations and new media.
The Round Tower
While the Old Town of Copenhagen has most of the city’s tourist attractions. And is certainly worth a visit, it’s worth venturing out into the rest of the city to see some of its other attractions. One such sight that you shouldn’t miss is Round Tower.
The Round Tower of Copenhagen was built in 1642 as an astronomical observatory. The unusual name comes from its cylindrical design.
The Louisiana Museum in Copenhagen
Louisiana Museum in Copenhagen is a Museum of Modern Art with a focus on the art and design of Louisiana. The museum is in the heart of Copenhagen and has a permanent collection of over 300 works of art. The museum also has a collection of temporary exhibitions, which include a wide variety of works from artists.
Such as Picasso, Miro, and Warhol. And the museum is also a great place to visit for those who are interested in learning more about the art and design of Louisiana.
Copenhagen are one of the best places to visit in Scandinavia. So learn the best time to visit Copenhagen. And these are the best places to see, and things to do in Copenhagen.