30 Fun & Incredible Things to do in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a wonderful city full of beautiful views and delicious foods. From the moment you land at CPH airport and take the metro to the city center, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous scenery, rich with Danish history.

This city is rumored to be the happiest city on the face of the planet. It would be a shame if you missed out on the opportunity to see if the rumor is true.

Check out our list of 30 incredible things to do in Copenhagen. These sites and activities are what make this city such a happy place!

The Best Ways to Spend Your Time in Copenhagen

Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, Copenhagen has so much to enjoy and appreciate. This city is bound to leave your heart full.

Aside from being known as the happiest city in the world, Copenhagen has a reputation of harboring hipsters and those who love a nice rustic scenery.

Let’s explore all that Copenhagen has to offer.

Plan your trip to Denmark today!

undefined

1. Live Freely in Freetown Christiania

Need a break from the cookie-cutter norms? Freetown Christiania is a community that encourages you to let go of all that you’re supposed to be.

This little neighborhood is full of crazily decorated homes and exciting venues. You can throw a rock and hit dozens of wonderful bars and restaurants.

When you visit Christiania, you have to visit ALIS Wonderland. This skatepark is one of the most famous in Denmark. This venue was created by locals and holds twenty years of Christiania history. Street artists and skaters are two types of people that you’ll find hanging around ALIS Wonderland, but everybody is welcome to join in the fun.

In addition to the cool spots throughout Christiania, this neighborhood is known for its relaxed attitude towards marijuana. Since this plant is still illegal or seen as taboo in many parts of the world, this is an attractive feature to many visitors.

2. Visit Denmark’s Royal Castles

The elaborately elegant castles of Denmark are not to be missed when visiting Copenhagen. From Fredensborg Palace to Kronborg Castle, you have to see the decadence that has survived the test of time.

Take a tour of these wonderful artifacts that are so rich in history. Visiting them with a tour guide ensures that you don’t miss a thing!

3. Snack Around Copenhagen

One of the greatest ways to get to know a city is through their cuisine. From pastries to fish to open face sandwiches, you’ll be blown away by the delicious food in Copenhagen.

Map out your snacking route around Copenhagen and reserve your tables!

Best Restaurants in Copenhagen

Høst: Høst is the restaurant for you if you’re looking for a delicious blend of Nordic flavors in a wonderful rustic environment.
Søllerød Kro: This Michelin starred restaurant offers a night of fine dining and an ever changing menu. You can dine here throughout the week for delicious lunch, dinner and an extensive wine collection, but their Sunday brunch is not to be missed!
Manfreds: Looking for a simple dinner with an emphasis on the wine? This farm-to-table style restaurant practices sustainable farming in order to give you the freshest food with the least impact on the earth.
Mirabelle: This bakery and restaurant is perfect no matter what time a day hunger strikes. If you go for breakfast or brunch, you have to try their famous croissants.

4. Travel Back to Your Childhood at the Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park

Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens offers fun for the family with its endless rides, beautiful gardens and delicious food and drink options. This amusement park is the perfect place to spend a splendid summer day.

Be sure to order your tickets before your arrival so that you can avoid the entrance lines. If you are spending an extended amount of time in Denmark, look into the Tivoli Gardens seasonal and annual passes.

5. Visit Danish Museums

Museums offer a great way for visitors to get to know the history and culture of a new place. Luckily, the museums in Copenhagen are a blast.

Check out some of the best museums that Copenhagen has to offer.

Best Museums in Copenhagen

6. View the City from the Round Tower

Looking for a bird’s eye view of the city? You’ve got it!

Stop by the Round Tower and climb to the top for the most phenomenal view of Copenhagen. This spot is included on tons of tours and is part of the Copenhagen City Card.

The view from the Round Tower, which is known as Rundetaarn in Danish, is definitely not a sight to be missed.

7. Stop by Den Blå Planet

Denmark’s National Aquarium is located in Copenhagen’s suburbs, and it is the perfect way to spend a free afternoon in this magical city. It is the largest aquarium in Northern Europe and is home to sea turtles, urchins and more.

At this aquarium, you’ll learn about life under sea and the importance of living a “green” lifestyle. It is a wonderful spot for kids of all ages.

8. Visit the Roskilde Cathedral

In the mood for a spookier way to spend your afternoon? Stop by the Roskilde Cathedral. This massive church is the resting place of almost two dozen Danish kings and nearly as many Danish queens.

If the solemn spirits aren’t convincing enough, you may be interested in the four ornate chapels. The chapels truly make the perfect place to pray and get away from the busy city.

9. Tour Copenhagen Canals by Boat

Touring Copenhagen by boat is an experience like no other. The perspective of the city from the canal allows you to see the city in a new light.

Hekla offers a hop-on/hop-off boat tour of Copenhagen that allows you to board the boat at seven unique spots at any time for 48 hours.

The canal tour takes you to Amaliehaven, Christiansborg Palace, National Bank of Denmark, the Little Mermaid statue, the Opera, Our Saviour’s Church and the Black Diamond. Jump off for photos as you go or an entire afternoon at your favorite spot.

10. Stop by Christiansborg Palace

Throughout history, the Christiansborg Palace was the primary residence of the royal family. Today it serves as more of a vacation home to the Danish royal family, but it is open to visitors when it is not in use.

From fine ballrooms to a magnificent kitchen, this palace drips in a decadence that is indicative of the royal family’s lavish lifestyle.

The most interesting part of this palace is that it’s foundation is built upon the 800 year old ruins of the original castle.

11. Amalienborg Castle – Home of the Royal Family

Amalienborg Castle is situated beautifully with the view to the Copenhagen harbour and the operahouse. Amalienborg was originally build for four noble families.

When Christiansborg Palace (which was the home of the royal family in former times) burned in 1794 the royal family bought Amalienborg and moved in.

Everyday at 10 am and 12 (noon) you can watch the changing of the guards.

12. Take a Ride on the City Train

Jump back in time by taking a ride on the Copenhagen’s City Train. Chug along through the city and see some of the most amazing spots in Copenhagen.

From the Round Tower to the Copenhagen Cathedral, you can experience it all in a 45 minute loop.

13. Shop and Snack at Torvehallerne Food Market

The Torvehallerne Food Market is a foodie’s wonderland. Hundreds of thousands of restaurant owners and consumers come to this market each week. From raw ingredients to delicious delicacies, you can buy loads of great snacks to fill you up.

This market originally opened up shop in 1889, but closed for the second half of the 20th century.

The cafe at Torvehallerne opens up at 8:00 AM on the weekdays, making it the perfect place to stop for coffee and baked goods before a busy day.

What makes the dishes at Torvehallerne so special is the inspiration that they’re created from. Many different cultures are represented in these delicious dishes. From France to Italy and beyond, you get a broad taste of Europe in this spunky food court.

14. Have a Peaceful Moment in Frederik’s Church

Frederik’s Church, which is also known as the Marble Church, is said to be one of the most fantastic places of worship in the city. People of all spiritual and religious backgrounds are encouraged to stop by this wonderful work of art.

Pray, meditate or simply step away from your busy day in Copenhagen for a moment of peace. With its magnificent dome and gorgeous artwork, this church is the perfect place to relax or praise the higher power that is meaningful to you.

Frederik’s Church was planned by King Frederik V in 1749 and today serves as a popular tourist destination and wedding venue. Admission is just around 4 euro.

15. Have a Brew at Carlsberg

If you’re down for what is “probably the best” pilsner in the world, you’ve got to stop by Carlsberg.

This brewery believes that their beer is only “probably the best” because they know that the science of brewing is ever changing and the future likely holds a better beer.

At Carlsberg, they believe that no matter how well a beer is brewed, the experience of drinking it only as great as you make it. They encourage their customers to drink responsibly.

We all know the best brew is one shared with friends. Bring your pals to Carlsberg and enjoy the famous pilsner.

16. Dine at Reffen Street Food

Street food? Food trucks? Vintage warehouses? Sounds like a good time!

Reffen Street food is the largest street food market in the nordics. You´ll find food from all over the world from more than 40 high quality stalls. It is not only a street food market. The locals also come here just to hang out.

There are sunchairs on the quay where you can sit and enjoy a coffee, a glas of wine, a gin a tonic or anything you want.
You can sit here and watch the life at the Copenhagen harbour or join one of the many events that takes place here as well.

17. Explore the City with the Copenhagen Card

The Copenhagen City Card unlocks 86 of Copenhagen’s most exciting tourist destinations. For a flat fee, you can enjoy all of the fun that this city has to offer.

Choose from a variety of packages that give you access to these amazing destinations for one, two, three or five days.

Top Attractions on the Copenhagen City Card

RAGNAROCK Museum
The Kronborg Castle
Gargantuan National Gallery of Denmark
Rosenborg Castle
Round Tower
Copenhagen Zoo

18. Tour Copenhagen by Bus

You can’t go wrong with a classic bus tour. Book a hop-on//hop-off bus tour to see Copenhagen at your own pace!

Hekla offers a wonderful 80 minute bus tour that stops at all of the hottest spots around town.

19. Overlook the City from the Church of Our Savior

Copenhagen’s Church of Our Savior is among the most famous in all of Copenhagen. It offers one of the most beautiful views of the city.

The serpentine spire allows guests to climb 400 steps to overlook the gorgeous Danish city. Bring a water bottle, because you’ll be breathless by the time you reach the top.

Be sure to check if the Church of Our Savior is open during your time in Copenhagen. The spire closes for most of December and all of January and February. If your travel dates are flexible, be sure to book a time when you can enjoy this phenomenal view.

20. Visit the Colorful Houses at the Iconic Nyhavn

The colorful row of houses along the canal at Nyhavn has served as an icon of Copenhagen for several centuries. Aside from the picture perfect scene that these houses create, they are known for something a bit more exciting.

The famous Danish writer, Hans Christian Andersen, lived in house number 20 when he created his fairytale, The Princess and the Pea, and a few other classics.

Nyhavn is said to be the most beautifully decorated at Christmas Time, so if you’re in Copenhagen in December, stop by to take a picture and marvel at the splendor of the colorful houses.

21. Cool Down at Reflections Ice Bar

Bundle up for the time of your life at the COOLest bar in Copenhagen. Reflections Ice Bar is located in the Generator Hostel and is decked out with decor made of actual ice.

You don’t have to worry about your beer getting warm when you’re kicking one back in this icebox of a bar.

22. Explore the Wonders of the National Gallery of Denmark

Statens Museum for Kunst, which is Danish for “the state museum of art,” is more commonly known as “The National Gallery of Denmark.” This museum is the mother of all Danish art museums.

At the National Gallery, you’ll find art that dates back to the 14th century, which paints a picture of over seven decades of history.

23. Explore Kastellet

Kastellet, or “the Citadel” in English, is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Copenhagen. This 17th century fortress has a phenomenal architecture and landscape.

Today it is used as an HQ for military operations, but guests are welcome no stroll around the property and admire the beauty.

24. Rosenborg Castle and The Royal Garden

Rosenborg castle was build by King Christian IV in the first half of 1600. It is situated in the center of Copenhagen and is surrounded by the royal garden.

The royal garden is a very popular park among the locals. They visit the park for picnics, to relax or just going for walks. Rosenborg is now the castle where you´ll find the crown jewells. It is also here the royal guards starts their walk through the streets of Copenhagen to end at Amalienborg castle where the royal family lives for changing of the guards.

Rosenborg is now a museum and inside you can see some well preserved interior.

25. Rent a Bike

Did you know that more people in Copenhagen travel on bikes than in cars?

This city is laced with kilometers and kilometers of bike paths, so there is no better way to travel around Copenhagen than like a local on a rented bicycle!

Donkey Republic is the bike rental shop in Copenhagen with the best reviews. Download their app to rent one of their bikes!

26. Take a Shopping Spree

When you land at the CPH airport, you’ll see that shopping is no joke in Copenhagen. The airport is more like a mall with a few planes flying in and out of it than a normal airport.

This high class shopping experience spills out into the city. While you’ll find your big international brand names, the Danish boutiques tucked in every corner of the city are the places to go!

You’ll leave Copenhagen dressed to the nines.

27. Enjoy Danish Music History at the RAGNAROCK Museum

Get in touch with your inner rebellious teen and rock out at RAGNAROCK music and pop culture museum.

The exhibits at RAGNAROCK rotate regularly to make sure that they are up to date with the latest trends. The main exhibit includes 11 different themes, ranging from the technical side of music to the fandoms that worship different musicians.

28. Take a Peek at the Little Mermaid Statue

While many people find Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid statue underwhelming, we believe that it should be a stop on your itinerary.

This statue that manifests an image straight out of a fairytale. This beautiful statue was inspired by the classic story by Hans Christian Andersen.

29. Connect with Nature at Jægersborg Dyrehave

Who would’ve thought that such a beautiful wildlife sanctuary was once used as a range to hunt these sacred animals.

Jægersborg Dyrehave, also known as the Deer Park, is an absolutely necessary stop on your itinerary. It is home to over 2000 wild deer.

This sanctuary, located on the northern side of Copenhagen, offers up-close-and-personal experiences with a variety of animals. Connecting with nature is always a grand time.

30. Stay at Urban House Copenhagen

Hostels are usually known as cheap places to crash when you’re traveling on a budget, but Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER shakes things up. This spunky accommodation prides itself on its modern decor and hipster vibes.

Whether you want a private room or you’d like to bunk in a dorm, there is an option for you. All of the accommodations are safe and clean.

This hostel is loaded with great amenities, such as social areas, a billiards lounge, continental breakfast, a snack bar, luggage lockers and a laundry room.

Urban House Copenhagen has been called a great place for couples to stay, but solo travelers enjoy their time here, as well.

31. Enjoy Nordic Culture at The North Atlantic House

The North Atlantic House, also known as Nordatlantens Brygge, is among the greatest museums in Copenhagen. It places an emphasis on North Atlantic culture and history through art.

While visitors can enjoy the standard admission to the North Atlantic House, this venue is open to bookings for conferences, weddings and other large events. Either way, this museum definitely has to be added to your itinerary!

Tour Copenhagen with Hekla

Did you know that Hekla has been touring Northern Europe for several decades? Our tours have been perfected over time, which makes us the best guides for your trip to Copenhagen!

Check out some of the amazing tours we have to offer:

Contact us for additional information about our amazing tours.

Explore Other Amazing Nordic Destinations

Hekla travels all over Northern Europe, and you can, too! Check out our guides to some of the hottest—well, coolest—destinations in Europe.

Things to do in Denmark
Reykjavik: The Ultimate City Guide
26 Best Things to do in Oslo
Top Tours in Iceland for Fun and Adventure
Best Places to Visit in Stockholm
30 Best Things to do in Norway
22 Amazing Things to do in Faroe Islands

Are you ready to book your flight and pack your bags? Adventure awaits!