The 20 Best Things To Do In Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital city, is honestly one of our favourite places in Europe. Famous for its royal heritage, incredible architecture, and waterfront location, this destination absolutely blew us away!

There are so many fantastic things to do in Copenhagen, ranging from cultural attractions to outdoor activities. The capital also has an amazing food scene, so it honestly has something for everyone. Thanks to the city’s location, there are plenty of awesome day trips on offer too.

In this travel guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit in Copenhagen along with other information, such as where to stay, how to get around, and some top tours.

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The Best Things To Do In Copenhagen, Denmark

1. Visit Nyhavn

The charming area of Nyhavn is undoubtedly one of our favourite places in Copenhagen! This iconic place is famous for its brightly coloured houses, lovely waterfront, and charming restaurants.

Nyhavn also has an interesting history as it was originally a commercial port in the late 1600s. During this time, sailors would flock to the area and visit the local pubs and alehouses.

This area is one of Copenhagen’s best photo spots and has a lively atmosphere, especially as there’s often live music playing. Not to mention, there are often some beautiful ships here. During the evening, the area is lit up with twinkling lights so is especially beautiful.

While exploring this old harbour, we highly recommend heading to Vaffelbageren. This place serves the most delicious ice cream and the portion sizes are huge. Plus you get to enjoy your ice cream with an amazing view!

2. Head to Reffen Street Food Market

Visiting Reffen is one of the top things to do in Copenhagen. It’s the largest street food market in the Nordics and boasts several bars along with over 30 different food stalls.

Gosht was one of our favourite stalls, which focuses on delicious Kurdish cuisine. Ramsløg is another fan favourite, serving tasty parmesan fries and wraps. Honestly, there are so many different cuisines to choose from, including Nepalese, Greek, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, Italian, and traditional Afghan dishes (among others).

Another highlight of visiting Reffen is its location as the market is located right along the waterfront. As such, you’ll get fantastic city views as you indulge in tasty dishes.

Reffen is open every day of the week throughout the season (typically March-September). During our visit, the food stalls were typically open from 11:30 am – 9:30 pm, with the bars staying open later.

3. Take a photograph of the Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Dating back to 1913, this iconic statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale about a mermaid, who falls in love with a handsome prince and gives up everything to be with him on land.

The Little Mermaid is considered one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen for free. However, it’s certainly overrated in our opinion. The statue is impressive enough (especially as it’s made from bronze and granite), but the crowds are absolutely crazy!

Unless you visit early in the morning, you can’t actually get near the statue due to the sheer amount of people. Throughout the day, tour buses are constantly rocking up and it’s just not a pleasant atmosphere.

The statue is located alongside Langelinie Pier, which is just a 15-minute walk from Amalienborg Palace. While in the area, we’d recommend heading to Kastellet, an impressive citadel.

4. Have fun at Tivoli Gardens

If you’re wondering what to do in Copenhagen, head to Tivoli Gardens. This popular amusement park dates back to 1843 and is famous for its variety of rides and amusements.

Rollercoasters include the Demon, the Milky Way Express, and ‘The Roller Coaster’, but there are plenty of other run rides to choose from. Those looking for a scare can head to Villa Vendetta or you can explore ‘The Mine’, which is guarded by a dragon. Traditional rides such as bumper cars and the carousel are also found here.

Various open-air stage shows are also held at this amusement park, and there are plenty of fun carnival games on offer too.

The Tivoli Gardens has four different seasons throughout the year; Summer, Halloween, Christmas, and Easter. Opening hours may vary depending on the season but in the summer, it’s open from 11 am – 11 pm/12 am.

You can purchase your entry ticket in advance online which includes skip-the-line entrance.

5. Wander around Freetown Christiania

Looking for unique things to do in Copenhagen? Make sure you head to Freetown Christiania. It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions and is often referred to as a ‘hippy commune’.

Freetown Christiania was established in 1971 when a group of individuals broke into the military barracks at Bådmandsgade. This area eventually became known as Pusher Street, where it was possible to buy hash and pot, and the locals had a very liberal attitude when it came to cannabis.

Unfortunately, there have been issues with violence and drug crime along Pusher Street, meaning this specific area is closed for the foreseeable. However, there are plenty of other sights to see in Freetown Christiania, especially as many of the original settlers still live here, so there’s a very 1970s vibe.

Guided tours of the area are available or you can explore independently. You’ll want to allow at least 1-2 hours for your visit.

6. Visit Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is another must for your Copenhagen itinerary. This castle was originally built between 1606-1607 and was ordered by Christian IV, one of Denmark’s most famous kings.

Not only is Rosenborg Castle beautiful, but this building is also home to royal treasures, including the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia. For the best experience, you’ll want to head inside, where you’ll get to see the Knights’ Hall. You’ll also get to see the king’s private writing cabinet.

Opening hours for this castle vary throughout the year. During the summer, it’s typically open 9 am – 5 pm, while hours are reduced (10 am – 4 pm) for the rest of the year.

The official Copenhagen City Card includes free admission to over 80 attractions, one of which is Rosenborg Castle. Other popular attractions covered by this pass include Tivoli Gardens, the National Museum of Denmark, and Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek.

7. Have a drink at the Proud Mary Pub

Those looking to have a drink in Copenhagen should head to the Proud Mary Pub. This pub is famous for its cosy atmosphere, live music, and funky decor, and is a great place to visit, especially during the evening.

There’s a variety of drinks to choose from, many of which are served in stein beer glasses. While at the Proud Mary Pub, you can also grab some food. There’s a variety of dishes on offer including burgers, fish ‘n’ chips, and pizza, as well as smaller bites.

We were lucky enough to visit during the Euros when Denmark were playing Slovenia. The atmosphere was electric and there were so many football fans singing and chanting – definitely an experience we won’t forget!

The Proud Mary Pub is open Monday to Sunday, from 11 am ’til early in the morning (between 2 am and 5 am).

Other popular pubs in Copenhagen include Hviids Vinstue, The Dubliner, and Fermentoren.

8. Go on a Canal Cruise

Copenhagen is a beautiful maritime city, with a charming waterfront and quaint old harbour. There’s also a fantastic canal system, where you can appreciate the beauty of this destination.

This popular canal cruise offers a unique way to experience the city. You’ll depart from Ved Stranden and will then head along some of Copenhagen’s waterways, taking in popular sights as you go. On this round-trip canal cruise, you’ll head past iconic attractions such as Amalienborg Palace and the Little Mermaid.

Alternatively, you can opt for this 1-hour sightseeing canal cruise. A bonus of choosing this tour is that there are lots of different start times, so you can easily fit this activity into your trip.

Those who are feeling a bit more adventurous can opt to explore Copenhagen’s canals by kayak. Electric boats are also available, allowing you to explore in a group.

9. Head up the Round Tower

The Round Tower is one of the most popular attractions in Copenhagen. This tower dates back to the early 17th century, making it Europe’s oldest functioning observatory, and it’s still used by amateur astronomers today.

To reach the Round Tower’s observatory, you’ll need to walk up its spiral staircase. From the top, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of Copenhagen. If it’s a clear day, you can see all the way over to Sweden!

The Round Tower is open from 10 am – 8 pm during the summer (April to September). During the winter (October to March), it’s open 10 am – 6 pm daily, apart from Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when it’s open 10 am – 9 pm.

Just be aware that this tower has a maximum capacity. Therefore, you may be required to queue during peak times, although the wait rarely takes longer than over 20 minutes.

10. Wander down Strøget

Strøget is the main shopping street in Copenhagen and one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. Here, you’ll find a wealth of shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants, so there’s something for everyone!

This street stretches for 1.1 km (0.7 miles) from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv. Collectively known as Strøget, it’s made up of several streets and squares including Frederiksberggade, Nygade, and Vimmelskaftet.

The main reason to visit Strøget is its shopping opportunities as you’ll find everything from budget chains to high-end fashion brands here. Popular designer brands include Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, while you’ve also got the likes of H&M, Zara, and the Lego Store.

As you wander along, you’ll likely encounter street performers which only heightens the atmosphere. Just be aware that this area gets busy. If you get fed up with the crowds, you can always head to one of the local pubs or bars!

11. Admire Amalienborg Palace

Visiting Amalienborg Palace is a must-do in Copenhagen. Located in the heart of the city, this palace is the official residence of the Danish Royal Family, one of the world’s oldest monarchies.

This palace is also famous for its Royal Guard (Den Kongelige Livgarde). Every day at noon, you can watch the changing of the guards which is a fantastic experience in itself.

There’s also the Amalienborg Museum, where you’ll get behind-the-scenes access. Here, you can visit the private interiors of recent kings and queens, as well as explore an exhibit about the monarchy.

The scope of the museum stretches back 150 years to Christian IX and Queen Louise, who were known as “the in-laws of Europe” because four of their children ascended to the thrones of England, Greece, Russia, and Denmark.

Opening hours for Amalienborg Palace vary throughout the year so check this in advance. This official Copenhagen City Card includes entrance to Amalienborg as well as 80+ attractions and museums.

12. Indulge at Torvehallerne Market

If you’re a big foodie like us then we’d highly recommend heading to Torvehallerne Market. Visiting this market is one of the top things to do in Copenhagen as there are so many delicious dishes to try!

There are two market halls to explore here, each one offering a variety of cuisines. Here, you can try a variety of foods, including fresh oysters, Spanish tapas, Danish sandwiches (Smørrebrød), and various sweet treats.

As well as offering high-quality (and organic) dishes, Torvehallerne has a variety of other stalls too selling everything from fresh flowers to kitchen/baking tools, so there’s something for everyone. You’ll even find stalls outside the main market halls.

Torvehallerne Market is open Monday to Friday (10 am – 7 pm) and Saturday to Sunday (10 am – 6 pm). There are also breakfast stalls which open at 7 am, so you can grab your morning coffee and a pastry.

13. Visit the National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is one of the city’s best cultural attractions. This museum covers everything from Egyptian mummies to Renaissance art and boasts a large ethnographical collection.

A highlight of this museum is the new Viking exhibition ‘The Viking Sorceress’. In this exhibit, you’ll explore the world of the Vikings and learn about their relationship with the present and future.

Other key exhibitions include ‘Danish Prehistory’, ‘Stories of Denmark’, and ‘Voices from the Colonies’. There’s also the on-site Children’s Museum which is great for families.

The National Museum of Denmark is open daily from April to October (10 am – 5 pm). During the winter (November to March), the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm.

Guided tours are available in English during the summer (July, August, and September), or you can explore the museum self-guided. Just make sure you take your time if visiting independently.

14. Enjoy a food tour

There are plenty of unique things to do in Copenhagen. Taking a food tour is one of the best activities in our opinion as they give you a great insight into the local cuisine and your guide will often take you to some hidden gems!

This Culinary Experience food tour lasts for 4 hours. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the city, where you’ll learn about the history of Danish cuisine while trying some traditional foods (including smørrebrød).

On this tour, you’ll visit some of the city’s best delicatessens and restaurants, as well as explore some of the city’s other sights, including Copenhagen Botanical Gardens.

Those who’d prefer not to walk can enjoy this culinary bike tour. Run by City Bike Adventures, this tour includes 6 food tastings at venues throughout the city. Along the way, you’ll learn about Denmark’s food culture.

15. Admire the views from the Church of Our Saviour

The Church of Our Saviour is one of the country’s most famous churches. It boasts plenty of history, as the church was consecrated back in 1696, and is one of the most recognisable buildings in Copenhagen.

The highlight of visiting this church is its impressive tower which was inaugurated in 1752. There are 400 steps which will take you to the top, as you can hike around the spiral.

Over 200,000 people visit this tower every year and it’s not hard to see why! Once you reach the top, you’ll get breathtaking views of Copenhagen, especially if it’s a clear day.

The church’s tower is typically open daily, from 9 am – 8 pm. Just be aware that the tower may close for safety reasons (due to strong winds and rain). Access is also limited during peak times as the stairs and pathways are very narrow!

16. Grab breakfast From one of the city’s bakeries

Denmark’s capital offers some fantastic food options. Whether you’re looking for a cosy restaurant or a fine dining establishment, there’s something for everyone!

We found that Copenhagen also had some incredible bakeries, which are perfect for picking up a pastry or two. Hart Bageri is one of the most popular bakeries in the capital and there are several locations throughout the city.

Juno the Bakery is another great option for sweet treats, where you can pick up freshly baked bread, croissants, and cakes (such as cream buns). Alternatively, you can head to the award-winning Andersen Bakery, which is located in the Islands Brygge neighbourhood.

However, we’d suggest heading to Emmerys, an organic bakery and coffee shop that has locations all over Copenhagen. This place serves the most delicious chocolate croissants and cinnamon rolls. Of course, there are plenty of hot drink options too, including coffees and hot chocolate.

17. Visit some of Copenhagen’s other museums

There are so many amazing things to do in Copenhagen, so you won’t be short of options. However, we highly recommend heading to one or more of the city’s museums (aside from The National Museum of Denmark).

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (also known as Glyptoteket) is an art and sculpture museum located in central Copenhagen. Famous for its marble sculptures and winter garden, this museum is a must-visit.

The Natural History Museum of Denmark is another excellent option. There are some fantastic exhibits here, including the Mineral Hall, Wild Wonderful World, and the Butterfly Garden.

There’s also Designmuseum Danmark, which boasts an impressive display of decorative art, crafts, and designs from Asia and the Western world (dating from the late Middle Ages to the present day).

Other popular museums in Copenhagen include the Thorvaldsens Museum, SMK, the Danish Architecture Centre, and the War Museum. Honestly, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

18. Walk around the Botanical Garden

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Copenhagen for couples, but there’s nothing more romantic than strolling around the city’s Botanical Garden.

Boasting ten hectares of gardens, Copenhagen’s Botanical Garden is home to the largest collection of living plants in Denmark (over 13,000 species). This free public garden dates back to 1874 and there are 27 glass houses in total, along with a beautiful Palm House and Butterfly House.

The Palm House is certainly a highlight with its spiral staircase and splendid views, while the Butterfly House offers you the chance to walk amongst colourful butterflies. Just be aware that you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to enter these two attractions!

The Botanical Garden is open from 8:30 am – 6 pm during the summer (1st April to 30th September) and 8:30 am – 4 pm during winter (1st October to 31st March). Opening hours are different for the Palm House and Butterfly House.

19. Find the Six Forgotten Giants

Those who don’t mind heading out of the city can search out Denmark’s ‘Six Forgotten Giants‘. These huge wooden sculptures are located in Copenhagen’s suburbs but you’ll need a car to travel around.

The Six Forgotten Giants were designed by Thomas Dambo, a fantastic sculpture artist. These giant trolls were made from recycled wood with the help of local volunteers and are set within nature. The sculptor picked these scenic locations to encourage people to get out and discover nature.

As the name suggests, there are six sculptures; Hilltop Trine, Little Tilde, Oscar Under the Bridge, Sleeping Louis, Teddy Friendly, and Thomas on the Hill.

Now, there are even more impressive trolls in and around Copenhagen (as well as further afield). You can find them by using the Trollmap! Another popular sculpture is Captain Nalle, which is located in the area of Nordhavn. For this one, you don’t even need to head out of the city.

20. Take a day trip to Malmö (Sweden)

Another bonus of visiting Denmark’s capital city is its proximity to Sweden (more specifically the city of Malmö). Malmö is one of the largest cities in Sweden and one of Scandinavia’s most eclectic destinations.

It’s a true melting pot of cultures and is known for its youthful population, epic food scene, and vibrant nightlife. Malmö is also an extremely bike-friendly city, so you can easily explore by hiring a bicycle.

Some of the city’s most popular attractions include Malmö Castle, the Turning Torso, Ribersborg Beach, and Pildammsparken. Malmö also has a fantastic food scene, with Malmö Saluhall, a popular food market being a great place to grab something to eat.

This 9-hour day tour allows you to visit two countries in one day. On this day trip, you’ll visit two Swedish cities (Malmö and Lund) and plenty of popular tourist attractions, including Hamlet’s Castle and the Lund Cathedral.

Helpful Information For Visiting Copenhagen

How to get to Copenhagen

The most popular way to reach Copenhagen is by air, as Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is the largest airport in Denmark. From here, there are several ways to reach the city centre.

We took the metro between the two and found the journey to be straightforward. Just be aware that there can be long queues for the airport ticket booths, but you can also book public transport on the DOT Tickets App.

Alternatively, you can take a bus, train, or taxi into the city centre. Those taking the train should know that there are two different platforms; one for Copenhagen and one for Malmö (Sweden). It’s also important to note that taxis from the airport are relatively expensive (unless you’re planning to split the cost).

It’s also possible to reach Copenhagen by travelling overland as Denmark borders both Sweden and Germany. Overnight ferries also run from Oslo, Norway’s capital city.

How to get around Copenhagen

Copenhagen is Denmark’s largest city and there’s a lot to see, so you’ll likely need to use public transport to get around. Luckily, there are plenty of different options!

First of all, Copenhagen has a great metro system. There are four metro lines in the city (M1, M2, M3 and M4) and these run 24/7. Departures are also very frequent so you won’t be waiting around.

You can also get around by using buses, trains, and harbour buses. Of course, many of the popular tourist attractions are located close together, so you can visit some locations on foot. Those who are planning to hire a bicycle should be cautious as the city can feel quite chaotic!

We found the zone tickets to be handy on the DOT Tickets App, where you could travel on any mode of transport for a certain amount of time (usually an hour). Alternatively, you can purchase the official Copenhagen City Card which offers free public transport and entrance to 80+ museums and attractions.

The best time to visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen is an amazing city that you can visit all year round. Whether you’re looking to relax in the summer or appreciate Denmark’s capital during the festive season, this place has something for everyone!

Spring and summer is considered the best time to visit Copenhagen. From May to August, you can appreciate long evenings, mild temperatures, and a variety of events and festivals.

We visited Copenhagen in June and had a fantastic time! We got a great deal on accommodation, even though we were here during the city’s peak season, and had plenty of time to explore thanks to the long daylight hours.

Alternatively, you can head to Copenhagen during the winter. As the sun sets early, you can enjoy the city’s cosy vibe and see a more authentic side to this destination. There are also some fantastic Christmas markets in Copenhagen if you’re looking to get in the festive spirit.

Visiting Copenhagen by tour

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Copenhagen, many of which can be done independently. However, there are some fantastic tour options too for those who are short of time, or who would like to learn more about the city.

Here are some popular tours in Copenhagen:

• Copenhagen Highlights 3-Hour Bike Tour: This popular bike tour will take you past many of the city’s most popular attractions, including Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn, and the Little Mermaid Statue.

• 3-Hour Walking Tour: Those who don’t want to cycle can opt for this walking tour. Your English-speaking guide will cover the best spots (especially for first-timers), such as Amalienborg Palace.

• 48-Hour Sightseeing Bus Ticket: This 48-hour pass allows you to explore the city at your own pace as there are three different lines. You’ll also have a complimentary 1-hour canal tour.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

There’s no shortage of things to see in Copenhagen so you’ll want the perfect base. Luckily, there’s a variety of accommodation options, ranging from hostels to luxury 5* hotels. Just be aware that accommodation here is pretty expensive so you’ll need to budget for that.

Here are some of our recommendations:

Budget: Next House Copenhagen

Next House Copenhagen is one of the more affordable accommodation options in the city. This quirky hostel offers both dorm beds and private rooms, and you’ll be just a short walk from Tivoli Gardens.

A highlight of staying at this hostel is its facilities, which include a rooftop garden, fitness centre, lounge area, bar, and on-site restaurant. Next House Copenhagen also offers an entertainment venue, games room, and mini golf.

Mid-range: Babette Guldsmeden

Babette Guldsmeden is one of the city’s most beautiful properties. Located in central Copenhagen, this hotel is just a short walk from Amalienborg Castle and is known for its charming rooms, many of which sleep 2 people.

Not only are the rooms beautifully decorated but they offer plenty of amenities including free WiFi. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant, rooftop spa, and garden area. Dogs are also allowed.

Luxury: NH Collection Copenhagen

Those after a luxurious getaway should check out NH Collection Copenhagen. This hotel is in a great location for exploring the city, as it’s located near Christiansborg Palace and the Church of Our Saviour.

This 5* hotel offers gorgeous rooms, many of which feature jaw-dropping city views. On-site facilities include a rooftop bar, fitness centre, lobby area, and restaurant. Private parking is also available.

Airbnb: Modern Apartment on Amerika Plads

This is where we stayed during our trip to Copenhagen. This 2-bedroom apartment sleeps four people and offers a spacious living room, balcony with outdoor furniture, fully-equipped kitchen, and a modern bathroom.

This apartment was in the perfect location (only a 15-minute walk from the Little Mermaid). In the surrounding area, there are various shops and restaurants, and you’ll have easy access to the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions About Copenhagen

How many days do I need in Copenhagen?

In our opinion, you want to spend at least 3 days in Copenhagen. This will give you enough time to visit the city’s main attractions, sample some of the food markets, and head on a tour (or two).

If you spend less time here, you may find yourself rushing around. For those who decide to stay longer in the city, there are some fantastic day trips from Copenhagen, including the city of Malmö (Sweden).

What is a good budget for Copenhagen?

We’d recommend a daily budget of at least £80-£120 per person. This will be enough for a hostel bed or cheap private room (if shared by two), affordable street food, and public transport, as well as an attraction or two.

Like many Scandinavian cities, you’ll have to watch your money here. Those who wish to stay in a spacious room or dine out every night will need a considerably higher budget so just keep that in mind.

Can you do Copenhagen in 3 Days?

You certainly can! We spent 3 days in Copenhagen and managed to see so much of the city. The best way to manage your time is by prioritising your ‘must-see’ attractions and then exploring some of the more hidden gems.

The great thing about Copenhagen is that many of the attractions are located relatively close together. It’s also a fantastic city to explore on foot (if you’re in the city centre), or you can easily get around quickly on the metro.

Is Copenhagen cheap or expensive?

We didn’t find Copenhagen to be hugely expensive (it was actually cheaper than Oslo). Of course, it’s more expensive than many European cities, but as we’re from the United Kingdom, prices weren’t that different.

Accommodation is one of the most expensive factors when planning a trip to Copenhagen. You’ll also find that there are plenty of fine-dining restaurants in the city, as well as costly coffee shops and attractions.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Copenhagen

Hopefully, this guide has given you a good idea of what to see in Copenhagen. Whether you’re looking to visit museums, relax along the waterfront, or try one of the city’s food markets, there’s something for everyone!

Those exploring Denmark’s capital should ensure they visit the city’s iconic landmarks, as well as some hidden gems. Just make sure you don’t rush your time here as there’s so much to do. You’ll also want to allow some downtime, as there are some fantastic bars and dining options in Copenhagen.

If you have any questions about things to do in Copenhagen, please contact us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

Here are some other Europe guides that you may find helpful:

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• How To Spend 3 Days In Stockholm
• Planning The Ultimate Oslo Fjord Day Trip