In Copenhagen and wondering what’s best to see and do? Here’s a list of 19 of the best things to do in Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Intro
Copenhagen is the charming and vibrant capital of Denmark full of a rich history and culture, with an endless amount of sights and attractions. You can find royal castles, significant cathedrals, cultural museums and uniquely-designed architectural buildings here. I’ve gathered 19 awesome things you can see and do in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Recommended Copenhagen Tours & Activities
Book unforgettable experiences and check out the below recommended Copenhagen tours, activities and attractions that are mentioned in this post:
- Central Copenhagen Bike Tour: Copenhagen 3-hour City Highlights Bike Tour
- Outside central Copenhagen Day Tour: Grand Day Trip around Copenhagen
Copenhagen Map
The above map shows all the points of interest mentioned in this Copenhagen itinerary. The points are color-coordinated as:
- Central Copenhagen Points of Interest → PURPLE
- Outside of central Copenhagen Points of Interest → DARK BLUE
HOW TO USE THE ABOVE COPENHAGEN MAP:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Click a Colored Point of Interest | Shows additional information and details of the selected Point of Interest |
| Click the Four-cornered Square at the Top Right | Opens the map in a Larger Map view in your personal Google Maps account |
| On Larger Map view, click the STAR ☆ under “Copenhagen, Denmark“ | Adds the Map to your personal Google Maps account to access anytime on Computer* or on Phone App** |
| * On Computer: In your Google Maps, Click “Saved” on left bar → Click “Maps” → Click “Copenhagen, Denmark“ | ** On Phone App: In your Google Maps app, Click “You” on bottom bar → Scroll to bottom → Click “Maps” → Click “Copenhagen, Denmark“ |
19 Things to Do in Copenhagen
There’s plenty to see and do in and around Copenhagen, so it can be hard to determine what you should fit into your itinerary. Below are the best things to do in Copenhagen that I found to be interesting, fun, or worthwhile.
Central Copenhagen
1. Rent a Bike or Take a Guided Bike Tour
(from City Bike Adventures Bike Shop)
City Bike Adventures Bike Shop is right next to Nyhavn where you can either rent a bike to explore central Copenhagen on your own, or you can take a guided bike tour. The bike tour includes a knowledgeable bike tour guide who will guide you through Copenhagen’s streets. The tour stops at notable landmarks/attractions and the guide provides valuable insight and information. And if any particular stop piqued your interest, then you can re-visit it and spend more time there (after the tour).
Book a Bike Tour by clicking here or click “Book Now” in the Widget below:
2. Nyhavn
When in Copenhagen, the vibrant street of Nyhavn is a must-visit! It is the most picturesque and lively waterfront of Copenhagen, and deserves a spot in your itinerary. Take some time here to admire and take photos of the colorful houses and the boats that frame them.
I loved this street and spent a ton of time here (and because my hotel was located here). Nyhavn has a lively atmosphere with a unique line of colorful buildings, charming sailboats floating in the canal, and endless restaurant outdoor seating. Eat, chill, people watch or just take it all in.
If you have a chance, visit Nyhavn in the early morning or in the evening. During these times, the canal boats will not be in operation, making the canal waters more calm. When the water is calm enough, then you’ll get the neat reflection of the buildings and boats against the water.
The Vibrant Street of Nyhavn! • photos by Jeanie A
3. Nyhavn Canal Cruise
There are multiple establishments along the canal where you can board a canal cruise. They will take you through the canals with a guide to explain the surrounding sights. This is a great way to get some amazing views of Copenhagen from the water. One cruise has a roof for shade and another was completely open-air. If you want unobstructed views during the cruise though then opt for the fully open-air boat.
Some Views from the Canal Cruise • photos by Jeanie A
4. The Little Mermaid & Gefion Fountain
When in Copenhagen, you must stop by The Little Mermaid statue, a symbol of Copenhagen! This statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, and also influenced Disney’s Ariel, The Little Mermaid.
Not far from The Little Mermaid statue is the Gefion Fountain. It is Copehagen’s largest monument with a sculpture of a Norse Goddess driving her oxen-drawn carriage.
The Little Mermaid Statue and the Gefion Fountain • photos by Jeanie A
5. Freetown Christiania
Freetown Christiania is a colorfully bohemian autonomous neighborhood. You can take a stroll through the streets where you’ll quickly notice the colorful street art, quirky architecture, and the eclectic vibe and atmosphere. Towards the center of Christiania, there is an outdoor eating area but behind the food vendors on the left-hand side, there is a little path up a small hill where you can walk up and see a nice view of a lake, a nice hidden gem.
Freetown Christiania • photos by Jeanie A
6. Our Savior’s Church
Our Savior’s Church has an iconic baroque spiral tower you can easily spot from anywhere in Copenhagen. You can climb up the steps to get an amazing panoramic view of Copenhagen.
7. Copenhagen Opera House
The Copenhagen Opera House has a unique modern architectural design that stands out in Copenhagen’s waters. Be sure to check out their website in case they have an event you want to catch while in town. They also have guided tours if you’re interested, but be sure to book the tour in your preferred language (either in English or Danish).
8. Black Diamond Library
The Black Diamond Library is another unique building with a modern architectural design. You can enjoy its library, cafe, shop and it also holds events. Be sure to check out their website in case they have an event you want to catch while in town. They also have a public guided tour if you’re interested but they’re only on Mondays at 3 PM. However, private tours are also available 5 days a week.
9. Circle Bridge (Cirkelbroen)
The iconic Circle Bridge is a modern and unique pedestrian bridge whose design was inspired by ship sails. This is a nice spot to soak in the view of the Kobenshavn river.
Right across the water is a full view of the Black Diamond library. If you visit on a nice clear day, the sun may perfectly shine on the water and reflect back onto the glass face of the Black Diamond library, where you might see the library shimmer and glisten.
Circle Bridge • photos by Jeanie A
10. Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)
Christiansborg Palace is home to Denmark’s Parliament and Supreme Court. This is the political heart of Denmark and also holds historical significance. You can explore the rooms of the palace, visit the Royal Stable, or even go up the Christiansborg Tower to get a great view of the city.
11. Amalienborg Palace
Amalienborg Palace is where the Danish royal family official residence is located. On one end of the square, you can see the elegant Frederik’s Church, and on the opposite end, the contemporary Copenhagen Opera House across the water. A great mix of traditional and modern structures.
12. King’s Garden & Rosenborg Castle
The Rosenborg Castle is in King’s Garden where you can admire the trees and greenery. You can picnic in the garden, or explore the castle’s elegant rooms full of royal treasures.
13. Round Tower (Rundetaarn)
The Round Tower is interestingly the oldest functioning observatory in Europe. Inside has a unique spiral walkway to the top. You can go to the top for amazing views of Copenhagen. And if you’re interested, they also have stargazing sessions here too.
14. Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke)
The Church of Our Lady is a magnificent cathedral with beautiful neoclassical architecture. You can enter and admire the interiors and the statue of Jesus Christ at the end of the church, just be sure to be quiet as there might be a service.
15. Nyboders Mindestuer
Nyboders Mindestuer is one of Copenhagen’s oldest neighborhoods. It is home of the yellow houses which were originally built for the Danish navy but now serve as residences.
Outside of Central Copenhagen
The below are located outside of central Copenhagen and are ordered from what I found most interesting to least (but still interesting lol).
16. Roskilde Cathedral (Roskilde Domkirke)
If you’re going to head out of central Copenhagen then I recommend visiting the Roskilde region with a stop at the Roskilde Cathedral. The Roskilde Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and holds many of Denmark’s monarch’s graves.
There are several rooms that have elaborate sarcophaguses and monuments of past Danish royalty. They are all adorned with elegant designs and sculptures. I found the sarcophagus of Queen Margrete I to be the most beautiful, with white ecclesiastical figures and a pretty deep blue color paired with gold. Don’t forget to check out the stunning neoclassical Greek-inspired architecture of “the white chapel” room. In this room, there’s a mirror on the ground to get a selfie picture with the ceiling too.
Stunning Sarcophagus Statues and Neoclassical Architecture in Roskilde Cathedral • photos by Jeanie A
17. Viking Ship Museum
The Viking Ship Museum is a must-visit when in Copenhagen. It is located right on the Roskilde fjord where you can spot replicated Viking ships sailing in these waters. Inside the museum, there are five original Viking ships that were recovered from the fjord and are now on display.
Here, you can get a fascinating and interactive look at Viking history and their way of life. Right outside the museum, you can also see Viking ship replicas parked in the harbor and visit the woodshop that builds them. Not only that, but you can even board a full-scale replica of a Viking ship too.
Viking Ship Replicas Outside the Viking Ship Museum • photos by Jeanie A
18. Frederiksborg Castle
Frederiksborg Castle is the largest castle in Scandinavia and is located on a beautiful lake along with its stunning garden. You can explore the lavish rooms, walk through the gardens, and don’t forget to stop by the chapel too! The chapel is one of the original rooms that did not perish in a past fire (and rebuilt) like most parts of the castle were. Plus the gold-grey gradient of the chapel makes it extra unique and beautiful.
Frederiksborg Castle and its original chapel • photos by Jeanie A
19. Kronborg Castle
The Kronborg Castle is located right on the Øresund Strait where you can see Sweden right across the water. Additionally, this castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage site with its symbol of Danish power and resilience. If you’re into Shakespeare, this castle has the small room where the fight in Shakespeare’s Hamlet is said to have taken place. The Great Hall here is also surprisingly the largest Hall in Northern Europe.
Kronborg Castle • photos by Jeanie A
Getting Around Copenhagen
Bike
Once you get into Copenhagen, you’ll immediately notice how bike-friendly the city is. They’re literally everywhere!! You can experience Copenhagen like a local and rent a bike to get around central Copenhagen. Some bike shops also offer a bike tour where you can go around the city with a guide who will provide information and interesting facts about the sights.
To book a bike tour or rent a bike, check out City Bike Adventures near Nyhavn! I opted to take their 3-hour City Highlights tour and I was extremely pleased with their service.
Copenhagen Card
The Copenhagen Card offers two card options – Discover and Hop – that includes transportation around Copenhagen that stops near all the major attractions. Check out the Copenhagen Card options here. You can purchase multi-day options to fit your itinerary.
If you don’t book the mentioned tours or rent a bike, then the “Hop Copenhagen Card” will cover stops in central Copenhagen, and the “Discover Copenhagen Card” will cover stops outside of central Copenhagen.
Rideshare
In Copenhagen, you can use a rideshare service to get around. The Viggo app works exactly like Uber or Lyft where you can call for a ride on-demand via the app, and pay for the ride service in app too. This might be a bit pricy but is also fast and convenient.
I used the Viggo app twice during my visit in Copenhagen, and the drivers were always quick to arrive, and brought me to my destination with ease and worry-free. This is certainly a viable option of transportation if you don’t want to deal with using other methods.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen
The most convenient area to stay in is in central Copenhagen and closer to Nyhavn. I stayed at 71 Nyhavn Hotel which was located in a convenient area where everything was nicely within walking distance.
Book the same stay by clicking here or add your dates and click “Search” for availability in the widget below:
Otherwise, search for your Copenhagen stay in the map below. Central Copenhagen (Day 1) points of interest mentioned in the itinerary are also marked for convenience:
Final Words
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Copenhagen by adding the best things to do to your itinerary. You can bike through its beautiful streets, cruise through its canals, and visit Denmark’s most iconic landmarks. I hope this post helps you plan your visit to the vibrant city of Copenhagen!
What was the highlight of your visit to Copenhagen?
Share your favorite part in the comments below!
(danish “thank you!”)
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