Best 20 things to do in Copenhagen, Denmark
Welcome to the ultimate guide to the exquisite wonders of Copenhagen, where biking reigns supreme and you'll find more pastries than you can shake a cinnamon stick at! Prepare yourself, intrepid traveler, for an adventure through the city that oozes charm, armed with this definitive list of the top 20 things to do. From snapping envy-inducing pictures at the iconic Nyhavn to embracing your inner princess at the whimsical Tivoli Gardens, this article will leave you itching to join the delightful madness in Denmark's capital.
Save destination1. Discover the Christiansborg Palace
Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København, Denmark
Welcome to the Christiansborg Palace, or as we like to call it, the Danish royal hideout! This grand palace in Copenhagen is like a real-life version of "Where's Waldo," because it's been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. But fear not, it's currently standing tall and ready to charm you with its fancy architecture, historical artifacts, and of course, more rooms than you can count on your fingers and toes! Prepare to feel like a kid in a candy store as you explore the countless chambers of this massive palace. From the Royal Reception Rooms, where you can pretend to be the king or queen for a day (crown not included), to the Great Hall, where you'll half-expect a royal feast to magically appear before your eyes. And don't forget to take a peek at the Quedens Garden, a perfectly manicured oasis where you can frolic around pretending to be Marie Antoinette, minus the whole beheading thing. But wait, that's not all! The Christiansborg Palace also houses the ruins of previous castles, which sort of makes it a historical onion with many delicious layers. Explore the underground ruins while imagining the dramatic scenes that may have unfolded here in centuries past. It's like being on the set of a Game of Thrones episode, minus the sword fights and dragons (sorry to disappoint). So, grab your adventurous spirit and unleash your inner royalty as you embark on a visit to Christiansborg Palace. Just don't try to conquer any neighboring countries on your way out; we hear that's frowned upon these days.
Learn more2. Visit the National Gallery of Denmark
Sølvgade 48-50, 1307 København K, Denmark
Welcome to the National Gallery of Denmark, where you can easily spend a whole day pretending to know everything about art. This enchanting museum houses an extensive collection of masterpieces that will either make you truly appreciate the wonders of human creativity or just make you question why on earth someone painted a potato. Get ready for an art-filled adventure, and don't be surprised if you accidentally mistake a famous painting for a map to the nearest restroom!
Learn more3. Admire the Frederiksberg Palace
Roskildevej 28 A, 2000 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
Welcome to the majestic Frederiksberg Palace in Copenhagen, where fairy tales come to life and your inner prince or princess can roam freely! This stunning gem, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, will make even the most cynical traveler believe in magic. Get ready to be awestruck by the palace's opulent architecture, as it proudly stands as a reminder that money can indeed buy happiness (or at least really nice buildings).
Learn more4. Visit the Little Mermaid
Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
Welcome to the enchanting city of Copenhagen, where even the iconic Little Mermaid statue takes her coffee with a splash of hygge! This petite lady of the sea, perched graciously on a rock, enjoys a front-row seat to the daily dramas of tourists seeking the perfect selfie. Prepare yourself for the inevitable "Is that all?!" moment, as this mermaid may seem a tad underwhelming when you realize she's no Ariel from Disney, just a dainty statue that's yet to win a singing contest.
Learn more5. Explore the Designmuseum Danmark
Bredgade 68, 1260 København, Denmark
Welcome to the Designmuseum Danmark, where the world's quirkiest design artifacts come together like a family of mismatched socks. Step into a symphony of aesthetic chaos, where the walls bloom with vibrant colors and, somehow, a statue of a talking toaster demands your attention. Prepare to be amused, amazed, and slightly perplexed as you wander through this whimsical wonderland of Danish design.
Learn more6. Visit the Nyhavn Harbor
K, Nyhavn, 1051 København, Denmark
Welcome to Nyhavn Harbor, the Disneyland for adults in Copenhagen! Prepare yourself for a picturesque waterfront extravaganza that will make you feel like a kid in a candy store, except instead of candy, you'll be surrounded by colorful historic buildings, trendy bars, and delightful boats. Hop on a "hyggelig" canal tour, a.k.a. the Viking version of a lazy river ride, and soak in the sights while pretending you're a Danish explorer (don't forget your imaginary helmet). Don't forget to raise your glass at one of the lively pubs, where you can fulfill your dreams of becoming a sailor, or at least pretend to be one while sipping on your well-deserved pint.
Learn more7. Admire the Rosenborg Castle
Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København, Denmark
Welcome to Copenhagen, where fairy tales come to life! Step into the enchanting world of the Rosenborg Castle, nestled in the heart of the city. Trust me, it's not your typical castle – it's more like a gingerbread house straight out of a magical land! Prepare to be awestruck by its extravagant Renaissance architecture. With its elegant towers, lavish interiors, and enough gold to make a leprechaun drool, this castle is fit for a king – literally! Keep an eye out for the Crown Jewels while you meander through the opulent rooms, just make sure you don't accidentally become the next royal – those crowns look heavy!
Learn more8. Explore the National Museum of Denmark
Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 København K, Denmark
Welcome to the National Museum of Denmark, or as the locals fondly call it, the nation's treasure chest of quirky wonders! Brace yourself for a jolly good time as you embark on a historical journey that will have your brain doing somersaults. From Stone Age tools to Viking ships and their peculiar obsession with horned helmets, this museum guarantees a delightful blend of "huh" and "aha" moments. So, grab your map and prepare to be amazed by the weird and wonderful tales that Denmark has to offer. Don't forget to leave your monocle at home; this is a place where you might just giggle louder than the exhibits!
Learn more9. Wander through the Freetown Christiania
Bådsmandsstræde 43, 1407 København K, Denmark
Welcome to Freetown Christiania, where the phrase "expect the unexpected" takes on a whole new meaning! As you wander through this unconventional district in Copenhagen, be prepared to have your senses tantalized with a mix of vibrant street art, quirky cafes, and an atmosphere that blends bohemian charm with a sense of rebellion. So, grab your adventurous spirit, leave your preconceptions at the door, and embark on a journey where rules are optional, creativity thrives, and the motto is simple: "Do as you please, as long as you don't harm anyone... and maybe leave your suit and tie at home!"
Learn more10. Explore the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
Dantes Plads 7, 1556 København, Denmark
Nestled in the charming streets of Copenhagen lies the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, a haven for art enthusiasts and seekers of cultured experiences. As you step inside this magnificent abode, prepare to be entranced by an impressive collection of Egyptian mummies and statues, while contemplating the mysteries of life, death, and the ancient art of embalming (don't worry, no zombie outbreaks reported yet!). Oh, and if you're feeling fancy, why not sip on a refreshing Carlsberg beer, because nothing screams "culture meets hops" like a tipsy stroll through Renaissance masterpieces!
Learn more11. Take a canal tour in Nyhavn
Nyhavn 3, 1051 København, Denmark
Welcome, adventurer, to Nyhavn in Copenhagen, where canal tours await to enchant you with their watery delights! Hop aboard a boat and prepare for a journey that combines a delightful history lesson with a splash of silliness. As you glide through the picturesque canals, admire the vibrant facades of the charming houses like a colorblind artist trying to match socks – it’s a sight that will make even the most dour faces crack a smile. So, grab a windbreaker and let the waters of Nyhavn tickle your funny bone while you savor the canal cruise of a lifetime.
Learn more12. Wander around Christiania
Welcome to Christiania, a unique and slightly eccentric neighborhood in the heart of Copenhagen. Prepare to have your senses tickled as you wander through this self-proclaimed free town, where creativity and nonconformity reign supreme. As you saunter along Pusher Street, don't be surprised if you stumble upon quirky art installations, organic eateries, and perhaps even a random chicken crossing the road without any intention of reaching the other side. Christiania might just leave you wondering if you've accidentally stepped into a parallel universe where imagination knows no bounds.
13. Stroll through Kongens Have (King's Garden)
Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København, Denmark
Welcome to Kongens Have, the King's Garden in Copenhagen - where the locals come to brawl with geese for the prime picnic spots! Marvel at the statues that seem to depict royals in their most dramatic moments, like the time King Christian IV dropped his ice cream cone and cursed the heavens. And don't forget to take a stroll through the impressive rose garden, unless you have an aversion to roses or an uncontrollable sneezing habit - in which case, bring a handkerchief and your sense of humor!
Learn more14. Take a bike ride along the city's cycle lanes
Embark on a two-wheeled adventure through the charming streets of Copenhagen, where bikes reign like undisputed monarchs! Pedal along the city's cycle lanes, feeling like the coolest kid in town as you maneuver past locals who make bike-riding look effortless (while you try not to wobble like a newborn giraffe). Soak in the sights of beautiful architecture and the occasional narrow lanes, making sure to give a wide berth to any overly optimistic pigeons who might mistake your bicycle for their next landing spot!
15. Discover the Amalienborg Palace
Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 København K, Denmark
Welcome to the Amalienborg Palace, the poshest spot in Copenhagen where the royal fam likes to hang. Prepare to feel like a real-life commoner as you drool over their majestic digs. With its grandiose architecture and stunning gardens, this place screams, "I am royalty, and I don't do average." Sit on the benches, people-watch, and pretend you're one of them. But watch out, one false wave and you might find yourself standing guard on a rainy day!
Learn more16. Explore Tivoli Gardens
Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V, Denmark
Welcome to Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, the amusement park that proves fairy tales are not just for children but also for adults who never quite grew up! Get ready to unleash your inner child as you explore this magical wonderland, where roller coasters and whimsical gardens collide. Indulge in thrilling rides that are sure to leave you screaming "I regret my lunch choice!" while marveling at the stunning horticultural displays that will make you ponder if this is, indeed, a secret garden of enchanted vegetables.
Learn more17. Explore the Botanical Garden
Gothersgade 128, 1123 København K, Denmark
Welcome to the Botanical Garden in Copenhagen, where flowers bloom like they're on steroids and plants grow taller than most of the tourists! Get ready to embark on a green adventure, where you can witness trees having a mid-life crisis and a cactus collection that would make even the most prickly personalities blush. Oh, and don't be surprised if a squirrel or two try to photobomb your selfies – they're the real divas of this floral wonderland!
Learn more18. Visit the Round Tower
Købmagergade 52A, 1150 København, Denmark
Welcome to the Round Tower in Copenhagen, where you can experience the sublime joy of spiraling your way to the sky like a Danish version of Rapunzel! Marvel as you climb the delightfully helter-skelter ramp that wraps around the tower, giving you panoramic views of the city - and a solid workout for those calf muscles. Just don't try to slide down the ramp on your way back, unless you're a thrill-seeking acrobat with a penchant for embarrassment... and splinters.
Learn more19. Enjoy the views from Church of Our Saviour
Sankt Annæ Gade 29, 1416 København, Denmark
Welcome to the Church of Our Saviour in Copenhagen, where you can feast your eyes on some truly spectacular views that will make you question whether gravity got lost on its way here! Get ready to ascend the winding staircase of this Danish masterpiece, a workout that will leave your thighs begging for mercy, just so you can reach the ultimate reward at the top. Prepare to be swept off your feet by the panoramic vistas of Copenhagen, and if you're lucky, maybe even by a gust of wind that will give your hair that oh-so-chic windswept look.
Learn more20. Visit the Copenhagen Zoo
Roskildevej 32, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark
Welcome to the Copenhagen Zoo, where you can witness a captivating clash between animals and the occasional confused tourist. Marvel at the majestic lions, who confidently roam their enclosure acting as if they own the place, because they probably do. Be careful not to mistake the peacocks for the zoo's official greeters, it seems they are quite esteemed and tend to strut around with an air of superiority.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Copenhagen, Denmark by plane is to fly into Copenhagen Airport (CPH). There are direct flights from major cities all around the world including New York, London, Paris, and Frankfurt.
Car
The best way to get to Copenhagen by car is to drive across the bridge from Sweden. The Øresund Bridge connects Malmö in Sweden to Copenhagen in Denmark. The journey takes around 40 minutes and the toll is approximately 43 EUR.
Train
There are no direct train services to Copenhagen from other European cities, but you can take the train to Hamburg or Berlin and then catch a connecting train to Copenhagen. The train station in Copenhagen is called 'København H'.
Boat
While there are no direct ferry services to Copenhagen, you can take a ferry from Germany to the nearby city of Gedser and then continue the journey to Copenhagen by train or bus.
Bus
If you're traveling from other parts of Europe, Flixbus is a popular and affordable option. The bus station in Copenhagen is called 'Ingerslevsgade'.