Copenhagen, Denmark: 25 Best Things to Do and See

When it comes to planning a holiday, Copenhagen might not immediately come to mind, especially if you lean toward sunnier destinations. However, as soon as you arrive in Denmark’s capital, you’ll be captivated by the city’s unique blend of charm, culture, and an unmistakable sense of “hygge.” But what is hygge? It’s a concept that embodies coziness, contentment, and well-being—essential to the Danish way of life, and one reason Danes are often considered among the happiest people on earth.

Copenhagen is full of experiences that showcase its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant canals. Here, you can delve into the enchanting legacy of Hans Christian Andersen, stroll along scenic waterfronts, and immerse yourself in a city that effortlessly combines tradition with a modern, eco-conscious outlook.

Whether you’re exploring historical sites, savoring Scandinavian cuisine, or simply soaking in the ambiance, Copenhagen offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen

The best time to visit Copenhagen is from May to September, with July and August being the warmest months. These summer months also attract the highest number of visitors, thanks to pleasant weather and longer daylight hours.

Copenhagen’s weather can be quite unpredictable in the autumn, and winter tends to be cold and damp, with December, January, and February being the chilliest months.

I visited Copenhagen in late October, drawn in by cheap flights, and was still lucky enough to enjoy some sunny autumn days. Just be sure to bring a warm coat if you plan to visit during this time!

Best Hotels in Copenhagen

Most hotels and hostels in Copenhagen are centrally located, making it easy to find accommodations in a convenient area. However, budget considerations are essential, as Copenhagen is known for being on the pricier side.

For budget-conscious travelers, especially students, I recommend Wakeup Copenhagen, which is close to the city center and the metro. The rooms are compact with a modern, almost space-station-style bathroom, but they’re clean, and the beds are comfortable 😊 Generator Copenhagen and Motel One Copenhagen are also good choices, offering affordable rates in prime locations.

How to get from the airport to Copenhagen city centre

There are several ways to travel from Copenhagen Airport to the city center, including by bus, train, or metro. The fare is the same for each option; the only difference is the travel time.

For a direct trip to the city center, I recommend taking the metro, conveniently located right next to the airport. It’s the fastest option, operates 24 hours a day, and takes about 15 minutes to reach downtown.

A ticket costs DKK 30 (around 99 crowns). Ticket machines are easy to find in the airport concourse, and tickets are valid immediately upon purchase—no need to validate them.

How to get around Copenhagen

Copenhagen is very walkable, with all the main attractions situated relatively close to each other, so exploring on foot is easy and enjoyable.

By walking, you’ll save on transportation costs—a plus in a city known for its high prices—while benefiting your health. Along the way, you’ll also discover charming spots, including cozy cafes where you can enjoy the excellent coffee Danes love.

If you want to experience Copenhagen like a local, consider cycling. With more cyclists than drivers, the city is exceptionally bike-friendly, with flat terrain making it accessible for all. You can easily rent a bike through the Donkey Republic app, with daily rentals around DKK 180 (approx. 600 CZK).

For reaching places farther afield, Copenhagen’s integrated public transport system offers a convenient mix of buses, trains, metro, and even water ferries. Fares vary by the number of zones:

• 60 minutes (within the city center, 2 zones): DKK 24 (approx. 80 CZK)
• 24 hours (zones 1-4): DKK 80 (approx. 250 CZK)
• 48 hours (zones 1-4): DKK 150 (approx. 495 CZK)
• 72 hours (zones 1-4): DKK 200 (approx. 660 CZK)

Public transport tickets are often more economical than a day’s bike rental, making them a practical choice for extended sightseeing.

How to save in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, so finding ways to save can make a big difference. If you plan to use public transport and visit multiple attractions, museums, and sights in a short timeframe, consider getting the Copenhagen Card – Discover. This card provides access to over 80 attractions and includes unlimited public transport, making it a convenient and cost-effective option. You can easily purchase it through GetYourGuide.

25 Best Things to Do and See in Copenhagen

If you’re planning a trip to beautiful Copenhagen, you’re in for a treat—this city has so much to offer. Here’s a curated list of 25 must-see sights and activities to help you make the most of your visit to Copenhagen.

Nyhavn Old Harbour

Copenhagen’s iconic old harbor, Nyhavn, is known for its vibrant, colorful buildings that line the picturesque waterfront—scenes you’ve likely seen on postcards and souvenirs. Located in the heart of the city, Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions.

In the summer, this area is bustling with tourists, but when I visited in October, I practically had the harbor to myself.

Originally established in the 17th century as a bustling hub for maritime trade, Nyhavn is now home to charming shops, restaurants, and pubs. You can even hop on a boat tour from here to explore Copenhagen from the water.

Little Mermaid

One of Copenhagen’s most iconic spots, often packed with tourists, is the statue of The Little Mermaid, crafted by sculptor Edvard Eriksen and inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous tale.

To enjoy a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-peak months or early in the morning or evening.

You’ll find The Little Mermaid gazing out to sea from her perch on the Langelinie promenade (note: she’s surprisingly small 😄).

An interesting detail about the statue’s creation: Eriksen originally based it on a Copenhagen ballerina, but since she declined to pose nude, only the head is modeled after her. The body was inspired by Eriksen’s wife.

A walk around the Nørrebro district

Copenhagen is ideal for exploring on foot, with its many unique neighborhoods. One standout is the Nørrebro district, known for its multicultural vibe. Here, you’ll find a rich mix of global cuisine, cozy cafes and bars, vibrant street art, and locals showcasing their skateboarding skills.

Tivoli Amusement Park

Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest and most famous amusement parks in the world, dating back to 1843. It offers a fantastic range of attractions, from thrilling roller coasters and carousels to enchanting mazes, water rides, theater performances, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

I highly recommend planning your visit to Tivoli Gardens to include time after dark, when the park lights up with illuminated attractions and dazzling decorations—a truly magical experience.

While admission can be pricey, the themed decorations, especially during events like Halloween, make it worthwhile. (If you’re not up for spending those hard-earned Danish crowns, you can still enjoy a peek at the lights from outside the fence! 😄) To skip the lines, purchase your tickets in advance through GetYourGuide.

A weekly entry to Tivoli Gardens costs DKK 155 (approx. CZK 512) for adults and DKK 70 (CZK 230) for children under 7. On weekends, adult admission is slightly higher at DKK 165 (approx. CZK 545). Keep in mind, though, that this price covers entry only—attractions inside have additional fees.

A city within a city: Free City of Christiania

A unique and intriguing spot in Copenhagen is Christiania, located in the Christianshavn district. Established in the 1970s by a hippie community that settled in an abandoned military barracks, Christiania is now a semi-autonomous anarchist commune.

Attracting half a million tourists annually, Christiania’s mystique lies in its mix of controversy and mystery. This area is known for its alternative shops, cafes, restaurants, markets, and frequent festivals and concerts.

With around 850 residents, Christiania has its own currency and more relaxed laws around soft drugs. Adding to its mystique is a ban on photography in most of the area (though I managed to snap a few pictures 😄). Christiania is a fascinating, somewhat unconventional place—I left with more questions than answers, but it’s absolutely worth a visit.

Fun fact: Lukas Graham’s frontman grew up in Christiania.

Shopping on Strøget Avenue

Right in the heart of Copenhagen lies Europe’s longest shopping street, stretching over a kilometer. Lined with a variety of shops, boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and cafes, this bustling avenue offers something for every taste and style.

Christiansborg

Christiansborg Palace is a significant landmark in Copenhagen, serving as the seat of the Danish Parliament, government, and the royal family. This impressive complex stands out for its blend of architectural styles, reflecting its rich history and multifaceted role in Denmark’s political and royal life.

Rådhuspladsen

The main square in central Copenhagen, Rådhuspladsen, is dominated by the grand Copenhagen City Hall. Here, you’ll find numerous stalls selling the city’s famous hotdogs.

Amalienborg and the changing of the guard

Amalienborg is a stunning complex of four palaces that serves as the residence of the Danish royal family. A highlight of any visit here is witnessing the changing of the guard, a daily tradition held at noon since 1794.

Rosenborg Castle and Castle Gardens

Rosenborg Castle is one of Copenhagen’s most remarkable castles. Once a royal residence, it now functions as a museum. The surrounding castle gardens are also a must-see, offering a beautiful backdrop to this historic site.

Admire the flowers in the botanical garden

Copenhagen is also home to an exceptional botanical garden, featuring Denmark’s largest collection of plants. Part of the Natural History Museum, this lush haven offers free admission to visitors.

Toss a coin into the Gefion Fountain

As you make your way to The Little Mermaid statue, you’ll come across the Gefion Fountain in Langelinie Park. This beautiful fountain depicts the Norse goddess Gefion, guiding a team of animals.

Tip: According to legend, tossing a coin into the fountain will grant any wish you make!

Frederik Kirke

Just a short walk from the Amalienborg Palace lies Frederik’s Church (Frederiks Kirke), an impressive baroque structure built between the 18th and 19th centuries. Inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, this church is a notable landmark in Copenhagen.

Building Børsen

Another architectural gem to visit is Børsen, the historic Stock Exchange building, famous for its tall, spiral tower that stands out in the Copenhagen skyline.

Kastellet Fortress and Windmill

On your way from The Little Mermaid statue, you can explore Kastellet, a 17th-century fortress that is one of Europe’s best-preserved star fortresses. Visitors can walk through the grounds, encircled by large walls and a picturesque moat, entirely free of charge. While exploring, you’ll also come across a charming old windmill nestled within the grounds.

Rundetaarn Viewpoint

Rundetaarn is a round tower in the city center that offers stunning panoramic views over Copenhagen. You can climb to the top for a scenic overlook, or simply admire its historic architecture from below. Originally, the tower served as an astronomical observatory.

Go to the opera (or just admire the building)

Copenhagen’s Opera House is a modern architectural marvel, completed in 2005. This state-of-the-art venue hosts opera, ballet, and drama performances. Even if you’re not attending a show, the building itself is worth a visit for its striking design.

Admire the yellow houses of sailors

The Nyboder district is a historic neighborhood near Kastellet Fortress, originally built to house members of the Royal Navy. Known for its distinctive yellow terraced houses, Nyboder has a unique charm and rich history.

Fun fact: The houses were originally painted red and white. The iconic yellow color was introduced during renovations in the 19th century.

Taste Carlsberg Beer

The expression “drink like a Dane” likely owes its origins to Denmark’s famous Carlsberg brewery. Naturally, you’ll find the Carlsberg brewery’s museum in Copenhagen, where a tour wouldn’t be complete without a beer tasting.

Visit the National Museum

Copenhagen is also home to Denmark’s largest historical and cultural museum, the National Museum. Here, you can explore a vast collection of archaeological artifacts, ethnographic treasures, artworks, and antiques that bring Danish culture and history to life.

A walk through the Christianshavn district

Head to Copenhagen’s eastern edge for a walk through Christianshavn, often called the “Venice of Copenhagen.” This vibrant district is lined with scenic canals and colorful houses, creating a lively and picturesque atmosphere.

Admire Art at the Glyptoteket Museum

For art enthusiasts, a visit to Glyptoteket Museum in Copenhagen is a must. This museum boasts an outstanding collection of both ancient and modern art. Not only is the artwork remarkable, but the building itself is an architectural masterpiece, as are many of Copenhagen’s landmarks.

Bring the Kids to Copenhagen Zoo

If you’re traveling with children, Copenhagen Zoo is an ideal stop. As the oldest zoo in Europe, it offers a fascinating range of animals, including some endangered species. To save time, you can conveniently purchase tickets in advance through GetYourGuide.

Explore the Underwater World at the National Aquarium

Denmark’s National Aquarium, Den Blå Planet (The Blue Planet), is located on Amager Island near Kastrup Airport. Here, you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater world with its impressive marine exhibits.

Have a Picnic at Amager Strand Beach

Amager Island also features Amager Strand, a park with a beautiful beach that’s popular among locals and tourists. It’s an ideal spot for picnics, barbecues, cycling, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Tips for Excursions and Experiences in Copenhagen

For unique tours and memorable experiences in Copenhagen, take a look at options available on the popular GetYourGuide portal.

Take a Canal Cruise

A canal cruise is one of the top experiences in Copenhagen, offering a fresh perspective on the city’s landmarks. If you’re a fan of boats, as I am, this is a must-do activity that lets you enjoy Copenhagen from the water.

What to Taste in Copenhagen

Danish cuisine may not be world-famous, but it has plenty of delicious options to try. Danish chefs excel in preparing fish and seafood dishes, and during your visit, you can sample some local favorites:

• Danish Hot Dog: Copenhagen is known for its hot dog stands, which offer a range of toppings. A classic Danish hot dog typically includes mustard, ketchup, mayo, onions, and pickles.
• Grød: A hearty breakfast porridge topped with nuts and fruit, perfect for starting your day.
• Smørrebrød: Open-faced sandwiches made with Danish dark rye bread, topped with ingredients like beef, smoked salmon, cheese, eggs, and vegetables, often garnished with fresh herbs.
• Frikadeller: These Danish meatballs, popularized worldwide by IKEA, are made from beef or pork and traditionally served with potato salad, red cabbage, or cranberry jam.
• Kanelsnegle: Known as a “cinnamon snail,” this Scandinavian delicacy is a sweet, cinnamon-filled yeast pastry that’s simply irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions