27 Wonderful Copenhagen Activities You Can’t Skip: Best Things To See And Do
Looking for some unique activities for your Copenhagen trip? I've teamed up with James from The James Guide to bring you this special post where we share the wonderful things you can do in Copenhagen.
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Europe! What an extraordinary and exciting corner of the world. A place where dozens of cultures, histories, and languages meet, forming one of the most diverse travel destinations for all who are lucky enough to experience it. Newbies, seasoned pros, or part-time visitors will all agree it’s jam-packed full of some of the world’s most wondrous things.
Usually, names like Paris, London, Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Istanbul dominate the conversation, especially for first-timers, but don’t let that fool you. There are plenty of not-so-hidden gems within the continent you must check out! For the sake of brevity let’s focus on one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scandinavia. Copenhagen!
It’s a vibrant city that mixes the old with the new. Where you can walk over centuries-old streets and bridges, tour traditional and modern buildings, and wander through reinvented and rejuvenated public spaces. A city full of royal history, charming architecture, delicious food, and sustainable living. In other words, a traveler’s delight!
So if you plan on coming in the near or distant future, or just want to know about all the epic things this beautiful town has to offer, stick around and dive into the top 27 activities every guest must see or do! If you have only 24h in this beautiful capital, take a look at this blog post.
Where is Copenhagen?
Before getting into what the city has to offer, let’s quickly go over where you can find it. Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is located to the very west of the peninsula-shaped country. The city sits on two islands, Zealand (Sjælland) and Amager and If you’re travelling west, It’s the last municipality in Denmark you’ll hit before entering Malmö, Sweden.
Check out a map of it here!
What to know about Copenhagen
Copenhagen was founded in 1167 and was once the capital of Norway and Sweden during the Kalmar Union (14th-16th centuries). Later, the city rose to prominence through its abundant Herring fishing. The combination of this wealth, and the reign of King Christian 4th in the 17th century, grew the city to an important regional capital that has lasted to the modern day!
Some Basic Info
Size: 91 square kilometers (35 square miles)
Language: Danish is the official language but many Danes speak English extremely well, and some even German and French.
Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
Population: Roughly 600,000
Traditional Foods:
Smørrebrød - A famous Danish open-faced sandwich made with rye bread, butter, and layers of meat, vegetables, eggs, or other toppings. It was originally eaten by Danish farmers for lunch but is now served in many restaurants, including high-end ones. A Danish staple!
Frikadeller - This dish includes Danish meatballs made from minced meat and pork mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. They are often served with potatoes and pickled cucumbers or red cabbage. Yum!
Pølser - A gourmet Danish hot dog made with a red sausage, bun, and various toppings. Unlike American hot dogs, Danish hot dogs are always made with 100% pork and served on a homemade bun. A must-try!
How to get to Copenhagen?
Copenhagen is a main European travel hub that’s easily accessible from many locales throughout the world. There are dozens of direct flights from the U.S. alone, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago Boston and much more. If you’re afraid of flying, no worries since you can get there by bus, train, car, or ferry. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!
Plane: Most who come from abroad fly into the Copenhagen Airport which is located about 8 km from the city center. Once you land, there are plenty of options like the metro, train, or bus to get you where you need to go. It’s quite interconnected!
Bus: multiple coach operators offer routes to Copenhagen from all over Europe, including FlixBus, and Getbybus. Once you get into Denmark, download the DOT app or DSB app to easily find your way.
Train: You can take an overnight train to Copenhagen from a few different major cities like Paris, Hamburg, Stockholm, and Oslo but getting around Europe by rail is extremely easy, especially if you’re flexible. To plan your trip, go to Eurail and get lost in the options!
Car: Europe is quite vast so if you pick this option, know that distances are measured in kilometers and gas is sold by the liter.
Ferry: Some of the more interesting travel options are ferry and cruise services. Since Denmark is made up of many islands, it’s an essential way to get around. Major tour operators like Scandlines and Color Line offer ferries and cruises in and out of Denmark from other European ports. If you can, give it a go!
Tip. Copenhagen is quite walkable if you stay in the city centre, a 24-hour public transport pass may not even be necessary!
Best time to visit Copenhagen
Late spring and Summer. The most popular time to visit Copenhagen is during the long days and pleasant weather of Spring and Summer. This is when the outdoor activities are in full swing and events are plentiful. Music lovers will enjoy the Copenhagen Jazz and Opera Festivals, creative souls 3 Days of Design while fashionistas Fashion Week.
If you hate larger crowds then avoid June to August. This is the high tourist season but on the flip side has some of the best weather, especially during July (average temperatures of 18°C or 64.4°F).
April and October. You’ll likely encounter some light rain and fewer hours of sunshine during these “shoulder season” months but you’ll be blessed with the unique charm that Copenhagen is full of. During this time, the café culture is either ramping up or winding down, so be sure to savour the moment while you can with a hot cup of coffee in hand.
May to September. Danes love biking and if you do as well, now is the ideal time to explore the city on two wheels. Some consider Copenhagen the world’s most bicycle-friendly capital and for good reason. There are over 340 miles of dedicated bike paths, bicycle bridges, and cycle superhighways! No wonder about 50% of all Danes commute daily to work or school on their bike!
Winter. If wind or freezing temps don’t scare you then consider visiting during the winter months. However, compared to other Scandinavian countries such as Norway or Sweden, you will most likely not see any snow. At this time of the year, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkly lights, festive markets, candlelight concerts, and of course, Danish hygge (the feeling of contentment with life and its simpler pleasures). There’s a reason Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world!
The Best Things To Do
Alright enough fooling around, let’s get to the good stuff, shall we? What to do when you’re in the “City of Spires”. Some of you might want to spend your entire day outside while others could lean towards the luxuries of indoor entertainment. Maybe you fall somewhere in between. Either way, I’m sure you’ll find plenty of intriguing suggestions that can’t be ignored.
Quirky landscape of reffen after heavy morning rain. The place is most alive during warm summer evenings.
1. Take a Ride on the Yellow Harbour Bus & Visit Reffen
Start your trip with an aquatic adventure on one of the famous boat rides that navigates between the two islands of Copenhagen. The iconic yellow boats travel back and forth across the canal like city buses, stopping at 9 major points including The Royal Library and Islands Brygge. It’s a great way to see the major sights without breaking the bank (tickets are around 22 DKK / 3 Euros one way).
Some other points of interest along their routes are Nyhavn, where you can see the iconic colourful buildings that line the waterfront, Nordre Toldbod, home of the star-shaped fort Kastellet and Refshaleøen, where foodies will delight in sampling delicious eats at the Reffen, the largest street food market in the Nordics! However, please note that Reffen Street Food market is best experienced during the warm season.
Riding one of these public transports is a great introduction to the marine way of life that embodies the spirit of Copenhagen.
2. Stroll Through Some Main Attractions (Nyhavn, Botanical Gardens, Kongens Have, and Rosenborg Castle)
Speaking of Nyhavn, a leisurely walk through this historic district is an absolute must! It’s one of the most famous attractions in all of Copenhagen. Here you’ll find the brightly coloured townhouses that pop up in any “top spots” search as well as dozens of cafés, bars, restaurants, and aspiring artists. Fans of history will appreciate the ancient ships and famous residents that have called this neighbourhood home, most notably Hans Christian Andersen.
Next, the Botanical Gardens, a beautiful oasis located in the heart of the city. If you are a nature lover, spend an hour roaming through the 13,000 species of trees, shrubs, and herbs exhibited throughout the grounds and inside the 27 glass houses. All of which make up Denmark’s largest collection of living plants. Perfect after lunch in TorvehallerneKBH, the famous fresh food market in Copenhagen! Please, note, that Botanical Gardens are currently undergoing renovations, so some spaces are closed for the general public.
If you haven’t had your fill of nature, head over to Kongens Have (the King's Garden), for a relaxing walk through the city’s oldest and most visited park. You’ll feel like royalty as you wander around the manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and charming paths.
If you can, grab some tickets and tour the over 400-year-old Rosenborg Castle. The Renaissance-era residence houses an impressive collection of royal artifacts, including the Danish Crown Jewels and the Throne Chair of Denmark! Walking through this remarkable building is like stepping back into the Age of Enlightenment!
3. Take a Free Walking Tour
Continuing with the walking motif, consider taking one of the many free walking tours offered throughout the pedestrian-friendly streets. If you’re a history buff, the Grand Tour of Copenhagen was designed with you in mind. On it you’ll learn about the founding father of the city, details of how Copenhagen came to be, and even where to get the best smørrebrød in town!
Other options include foodie and pub crawls, harbour walks, and private engagements. There’s even a classical tour that shares tales of Copenhagen’s craziest king (Christian VII) and his insane parties! Stories you won’t soon forget!
4. See the City from Above
If you love breathtaking views and historic architecture, consider visiting a pair of the most prominent buildings in the city. First off, the Church of Our Saviour. An over 300-year-old church that is famous for its Saviour Tower, a winding spire that juts into the air in central Copenhagen.
If you dare climb this beautiful steeple, beware, the fear is real! You’ll be gripping the handrails tightly as you traverse the last 150 steps to the top in the open air. Don’t worry, the 85-meter-high (280 ft.) vantage point will be well worth the scare!
If the church is too busy, or too much to handle, another great option is the Round Tower or Rundetaarn. Originally designed as an observatory for the University of Copenhagen, today it still functions as a place for amateur astronomers to catch views of the amazing night skies. It’s not as tall as the Church of our Saviour, standing at 41.5 meters (136 ft.), but the sights from the top are equally impressive!
For those who want to see the city from above for free, head to Christiansborg Tower, which offers iconic views of Copenhagen from 44 meters up. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to sights like the Grand Square with Holmen’s Church and canal, Kongens Nytorv (square), the magnificent dome of the Marble Church, the Øresund straits with offshore wind turbines, and even Sweden on the horizon!
Glyptoteket’s winter garden is one of the top attractions in Copenhagen. If you’re visiting on one of the last Wednesdays of the month, you can get to the museum for free.
5. Explore Copenhagen’s Top Notch Museums
If the weather is being uncooperative and you need a nice indoor distraction, or if you love art in general and want to spend some time meandering through some of the finest works in Northern Europe, you have to step into The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and the Glyptoteket.
Both showcase impressive pieces that will leave you stunned. From Picasso to Van Gogh, there’s plenty to feast your hungry eyes on! Also, it’s good to know that every last Wednesday of every month, the entrance to Glyptoteket is free of charge — why not take advantage of it?
If you prefer archaeological museums with ancient artifacts and relics, then the National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) will be more up your alley. Inside you’ll find a comprehensive look at Danish history from the Stone Age to the Viking Era all the way up to modern times. Well worth the price of admission!
6. Visit the Charismatic Neighborhood of Christiania
If you’re more of a free-spirit who goes where the wind takes them, you’ll feel right at home in the communal neighbourhood of Christiania. The atmosphere there is akin to the 1960s hippy vibe, full of people who enjoy an alternative lifestyle that doesn’t quite conform to the norm.
It’s so independent, that the entire community operates semi-autonomously, away from the Danish government. The residents rely on a consensus democracy or grassroots governing style. Basically, each person has a voice!
Here you’ll find colourful street art, quirky handmade houses, galleries, workshops, music venues, and lush green spaces. The entire neighbourhood offers a captivating glimpse of a different side of Copenhagen.
7. Ski, Hike, or Climb at CopenHill
If you're a fan of unique urban spaces that mix practicality with innovation, CopenHill is a must-see! It’s a waste-to-energy treatment plant that has been converted into an outdoor recreational hot spot! Talk about efficiency!
When arriving, you’ll first notice the gigantic artificial green roof that slopes and wraps down from the top to the very bottom. The intended use? Skiing of course!
Strap on a pair of skis and test your luck down this incredible piece of engineering or lace up a good pair of trail running shoes and test your might on one of the many trail options that line the roof! If that’s not enough, try your athleticism up the world’s largest man-made rock climbing wall! Incredible!
A truly a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive, experience!
8. Read a Book inside the Black Diamond Library
More than just a library, the Black Diamond, or “Den Sorte Diamant”, is where the love of learning meets the thrill of discovery. If you love to read, this is your happy place!
It’s easy to lose yourself, and time, roaming the 8 floors and 35 million available resource materials. If that’s not enough, visitors can also catch a live concert, savour a tasty beverage, or simply soak in the panoramic views of the adjacent harbour through the massive glass window wall that splits the building in two, from floor to ceiling. A marvel of modern architecture!
I guarantee spending an hour or two here is the perfect afternoon getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
9. Hang Out in the Sprawling Urban Park of Superkilen
Think of a giant, colourful playground for both grown-ups and kids, and you get Superkilen! A vibrant and eccentric park that stretches through the Nørrebro district in north central Copenhagen.
What makes this urban outdoor space stand out, you ask? Well, let me tell you. It's the miscellaneous and unique installations from around the world that truly make this park unique. It’s like a giant melting pot of international flair! A total of 99 items were contributed by 59 countries, including neon signs from Russia, swings from Iraq, and benches from Brazil, that truly showcase what this space is all about, diversity!
It’s not just a park, it’s an interactive installation where every corner has a story to tell. Whether you're riding a bike along the iconic red bike lane, waiting your chance for a game of chess, or chilling at the Black Market's funky benches, Superkilen promises a fun and unforgettable day in the sun!
10. Grab a Cup of Joe on the Rooftop at Original Coffee
Talk about the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy a delicious cup of java! This comfy café chain is known for its relaxed atmosphere and delightful coffee, sourcing its beans from worldwide locations such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil. Stop by and grab a quick espresso before exploring the city or settle in and take your time with a latte and a pastry. No matter which you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
One of the more popular spots, and for good reason, is the rooftop at the Illum location. Here you can enjoy your coffee in style with a side of Copenhagen’s stunning scenery. For a more “at home” feeling, head to the Nordhavn location. It’s cosy and chic, perfect for a relaxing break.
All-in-all, every location is a must-visit for coffee lovers looking to experience Copenhagen’s chill café culture!
11. Marvel at and Inside Grundtvig's Church
If you want to be impressed by the sheer beauty and design the human mind can put out, head over and inside Grundtvig’s Church in northern Copenhagen. It’s a must-see for architecture buffs or anyone looking to be wowed by something a little magical.
This towering masterpiece, designed by Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint, looks like something straight out of a fairytale, especially when you head inside! The intricately bricked columns and soaring ceilings produce an eerie calm that’ll leave a lasting impression and a peaceful mood.
So snap some photos of the geometric exterior before soaking in the interior’s tranquil energy. It’s such a cool and unexpected gem that most visitors miss. Don’t be one of them!
12. Go Shopping in Fields
This is the place to scratch all of your money-spending itches! If you want it or need it, there’s a good chance you’ll find it at Field’s Shopping Center, one of the largest indoor malls in all of Scandinavia!
From outdoor gear and equipment to jewellery/ and high-end clothing, Fields is the one-stop shop for any shopaholic or casual spender. The place to be for a shopping spree. With a wide range of about 150 stores, cafés, restaurants, and even a cinema, Field’s will tick all the shopping boxes that need to be ticked!
Plus, it’s perfect for people-watching! You’ll be amazed at some of the interesting characters you’ll see wandering around Fields.
13. Play Minigolf at Camping in the Meatpacking District
If you want a super fun way to kill some time, either solo or with a group, try this quirky urban minigolf drink bar! It combines a cool industrial style with a colourful and creative course design that’s sure to entertain the seasoned putter or anybody looking to have a good laugh with friends.
The funky obstacles and sparkling lights will make every hole a blast! Since you’re in the heart of the trendy Meatpacking District, you’re surrounded by some of the city’s best street food, bars, and nightlife. After you’ve sunk your last putt, keep the party going at Jolene's’, Mesteren & Lærlingen, or Bakken. They’re all just a stone’s throw away from each other!
Whether you want to start your night out at “Camping”, stop in for a quick refreshment, or enjoy a playful break from the usual sightseeing, you’re going to leave a bit brighter than you were when you first arrived.
14. Play Boardgames in Bastard Cafe
Another competitive option for game lovers everywhere is playing a few rounds at the Bastard Café. It specialises in drinks, snacks, and you guessed it, board games! Pick one of the 5,800 options (yes, that many) to choose from, grab a drink or appetizer, and dive into an epic battle of strategy, luck, or pure fun!
The laid-back and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time as you get caught up in having a blast with friends or strangers. Even if you’re not a hardcore gamer, the endless options and friendly social climate will be more than enough to keep you smiling hour after hour.
Please note, that reserving a table is highly recommended, especially during weekends.
Fun fact. You can not only visit the Maersk Tower, but you can also get married there!
15. Visit the Mærsk Tower
The Mærsk Tower, specifically the 15th floor, is a great destination for those curious about cutting-edge science and research as well as providing a nice panoramic view of the city below. It’s all about health and well-being with this high-tech institution.
Inside you’ll find brilliant minds tackling big health issues like cancer and diabetes while simultaneously advancing the fields of neuroscience and pharmacology. If you’re lucky, you might be able to join one of the occasional events or exhibitions hosted by the university. Cross your fingers!
It’s only open on weekdays, 8:00 - 17:00hrs, so if you want the chance to rub elbows with the top academic minds Denmark has to offer, pencil in an early afternoon visit for an inspiring perspective that’ll bedazzle you in more ways than one.
16. Spend Some Time, and Money, at the Bip Bip Bar
Relive your childhood at this old-school hangout! Bip Bip Bar is “totally rad” for anyone who needs a scoop of nostalgia to accompany the nightlife’s main course. This groovy pub is packed with all the classics; arcade games, hand-held shooters, foosball tables, and pinball machines! So much so that it’ll transport you straight back to the '80s and '90s!
Grab a drink, buy some credits, and challenge your friends to a game of Pac-Man, Mario Kart, or Donkey Kong. The flashing lights and chaotic sounds make it a prime spot to pump up the energy and let the good times roll.
Even though the place is small, it’s packed with more fun than you can shake a stick at! Bip Bip Bar won’t leave you hanging for a bodaciously awesome night out in Copenhagen!
17. Visit Carlsberg City For a Tasty Beer
Home of the world-famous “Elephant Gate”, Carlsberg City is a historic district that’s been developed into a trendy and stylish neighborhood full of apartments, shops, and hip cafés. It’s a lovely place to meander around, soak up the local culture, and sip on an icy craft beer.
Speaking of beer, this section of town is named after the largest brewery in Copenhagen, Carlsberg Brewery. In fact, the entire district is built on the site of the old beer factory, which was founded by J.C. Jacobsen in 1847. If you have the time I highly recommend booking a tour within the 170-year-old walls! Inside you’ll find one of the largest unopened beer bottle collections in the world and 3 complimentary beers waiting for you at the end. Nice!
An excellent way to escape a hot summer’s day to be sure!
18. Take a Winter Dip and Have a Sauna!
If you’ll be traveling through Copenhagen during the colder months, you’ve got to try a winter dip and sauna! It's seriously one of the coolest (pun intended) and most refreshing things to do, particularly first thing in the morning!
Plunging into the icy cold waters and feeling that rush of adrenaline, only to warm up in a steamy sauna right after, is such an invigorating experience that it will leave your body feeling like new. Trust me, it's a thrilling way to wake up your senses and beat the winter blues!
Science on this is scarce, but locals swear that it boosts your mood, and gives you energy with an endorphin kick not easily shaken! I guess when the sun doesn’t come out for months at a time, you’re going to need something to put a smile on your face!
Choose from one of the many options like a winter bath club or a dip in the sea. Whatever you do, be careful and don’t stay in too long! Experts recommend newbies start with a few minutes, 3 at the most. Safety first!
It can be a little intimidating but I wager if you give it a go, you won't regret it!
19. Eat and Learn at ØsterGRO (Rooftop Farm)
Going green is a recurring theme in Copenhagen and nowhere else is this more apparent than in the city’s most well-known rooftop farm, ØsterGRO! The first of its kind in all of Denmark! Included within the 600 square meters are fields of organically grown vegetables, fruits, greens, herbs, and edible flowers, a greenhouse, a henhouse, and three bee hives! Wow!
There’s also a small restaurant that serves communal-style meals for up to 25 people at a time. All the ingredients are organic and locally sourced, reinforcing the eco-friendly ideals the farm is based on.
If you’re feeling generous, you can also volunteer every Tuesday from 10 - 17hrs during the growing season. In return, the farm will provide a vegetarian lunch, lasting memories, and a good time with like-minded people.
One afternoon here will give you a new perspective on city living and teach you how we can make improvements to better the course of our unsteady future.
20. Trip Out in The Tube Copenhagen
Remember when you were a kid and the yearly summer fair came into town? I certainly do. What do they all usually have in common? Besides the sketchy amusement rides and rigged games of chance, if you guessed a giant funhouse full of mirrors, optical illusions, and playful obstacles, ding ding, you win a prize!!
That’s exactly what you’ll find if you go to “The Tube”, but on a whole new level! This place isn’t your typical run-of-the-mill carnival attraction. No, it’s modern, sleek, and super fun! Complete with upbeat music, colorful lights, and lots of mini attractions suitable for the entire family, especially those with young children.
Start your journey with a twisting space tunnel that might get you dizzy if you stare too long at it and end with a honeycomb climb that feels bigger than it really is. Don’t worry about getting lost though since the entire space is well-lit and laid out with neon directional arrows.
It only takes about 45 mins to get through so fitting it into your busy schedule shouldn’t be much of a problem.
21. Go Ice Skating (Winter)
Another fun activity you have to try if you’re in Copenhagen when the temperature drops is ice skating. Each winter the city transforms into a winter wonderland that begs its occupants to exploit. You’ll feel like you’re a character from a romantic comedy as you glide across the ice, engulfed by the beautiful cityscape as your backdrop. It’s unreal and such a fun way to enjoy the chilly weather! The best places to skate are:
Frederiksberg Runddel: Each year the space before Frederiksberg Gardens is transformed into a free ice skating rink that anyone can enjoy. If you own a pair of skates or don’t mind renting some, this is going to be one of the better and cheaper options.
Tivoli Gardens: For a more festive vibe, head to Tivoli Gardens. The rink here is on the smaller side but surrounded by charming holiday decorations and lights to make up for it. Quite the enchanting experience and best during the Christmas season!
Broen’s Ice Rink: Here you can enjoy an epic view of Copenhagen’s harbour while you skate around on the city’s newest public ice rink. As a bonus, hungry skaters will love filling their bellies at one of the many delicious food stalls in Broens Street Kitchen. Ideal for “foodies” and skaters everywhere!
22. Rent a Boat (Summer)
No summer trip to Copenhagen is complete without renting a boat from GoBoat or FriendShips and exploring Copenhagen's picturesque canals, harbor, and coastline. You can go with a group or enjoy some "me time" and cruise around at your own pace. Either way, the feeling of the sun shining down on your bare skin and the gentle cool breeze through your hair will wash all your worries away!
Options include 7 passenger vessels up to boats that can fit 25 people! Bring some drinks and snacks or order a charcuterie board, juicy burgers, or simple picnic baskets and feast like a captain of the seven seas! As you boat around the city, take note of the charming buildings, lively waterfront cafes, and iconic landmarks like the Little Mermaid. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny day!
23. Step into the Cisternerne
Claustrophobics beware! The only above-ground experience you’ll have of this immersive art exhibit is the glass pyramid entrance. Once you’re through, tread carefully as you descend into a hidden pocket, full of excitement and intrigue, beneath the city.
You see the Cisternerne was once a fresh water reservoir relied upon by the residents of Copenhagen. Now, each year a contemporary artist is invited to transform the dingy dungeon into an enthralling exhibition specifically designed for the underground space. One that awakens the senses and invokes powerful emotions.
I promise stepping into this secret cavern will be both equally fascinating, and eerie. Consider adding it to your itinerary for an interesting twist that will be hard to match.
24. Enjoy a Walk Through the Evergreen Garden of Opera Parken
Looking for a nice place to relax and unwind between sightseeing adventures? I have you covered. Head on over to one of the nicer outdoor spaces around, Opera Parken. It comes loaded with amazing views, 6 diverse gardens, a cozy café, and even a greenhouse!
Designed with relaxation, recreation, and contemplation in mind, it’s a lovely place to stretch your legs and catch some rays. Speaking of gardens, each holds its little surprises like a beautiful fountain, a water lily pond, and a reflecting pool where drops of water bounce off the surface in a soothing rhythm.
In an otherwise densely built inner harbour, Opera Parken stands out as a green oasis. Relax with a beverage, have a picnic with friends, or simply add a touch of elegance to your day. I feel calmer just thinking about it!
25. Visit the Playground in Nordhavn, Konditaget Lüders
Sometimes it’s hard being a tourist with young children. They often need some form of entertainment or activity that burns them out, so to speak, so they don’t drive you crazy with their antics. Enter the Konditaget Lüders in Nordhavn. The ultimate play area, full of kid-friendly equipment and spectacular views!
This brightly colored rooftop rec area is perched high, on top of a multi-story car park. Unusual yes, but fun nonetheless. Let the red handrail lead you to the swings, trampolines, jungle gyms, CrossFit equipment, monkey bars, and more. It's a great spot to chill out, work out, or space out!
26. Stop and Smell the Roses inside the Small Botanical Garden “Landbohøjskolens Have”
If you want even more greenery in your life, discover the peaceful escape that is Landbohøjskolens Have or “The Horticultural Garden”. A small, yet delightful plot owned by the University of Copenhagen that’s kept pristine all year round.
Here you’ll notice the special calm that fills the the space. No dogs, no people throwing a ball back and forth, no bicycles. Not a sound in the world other than the quiet chatter from fellow visitors. It’s the ultimate hidden “fairy tale” environment where you can read, meditate, or simply enjoy nature.
It’s also a wonderful location for an impromptu photo shoot. The vivid colors and dreamy landscape create the “perfect storm” for photographers to flex their photogenic muscles.
No matter what you choose to do here, I guarantee you’ll leave feeling both refreshed and harmonious.
27. Book a Photoshoot with a Local Photographer
One fantastic way to capture your best Copenhagen memories is by hiring a local photographer or setting up a professional photoshoot. Since there are so many stunning locations it’s easy to get lost around every corner. Avoid searching for “the perfect spot”. Instead, hire a local pro and take advantage of their knowledge and expertise. This way you won’t waste valuable time finding the prime locales.
To get you ahead of the game, some popular captivating places for awesome photo-ops include the Tivoli Gardens, the Marble Bridge, Christiansborg Palace, or anywhere along the many, many kilometers of waterfront.
Booking one of these sessions is an outstanding way to capture those very special moments only a pro knows how to. Worth every penny!
To learn more, click here.
*Bonus* Explore the Bornholm / Faroe Islands
I know, I know, this isn’t Copenhagen. But hear me out. If you’ve come this far, maybe you’re open to travelling a little bit farther, especially if you want to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery this world has to offer.
First is Bornholm. A beautiful Danish island in the Baltic Sea. Here you’ll find a little slice of paradise, full of charming villages, and lush forests. Take action by exploring the ancient ruins of Hammershus Castle, or chill out and catch some rays on Dueodde Beach, one of the best beaches in all of Europe!
Bornholm is also famous for its delicious smoked herring, so if you love a tasty treat, don’t miss out on trying that! Coming here is the definitive getaway for anyone who loves nature, history, and a bit of island charm. You can reach Bornholm by taking a short flight from Copenhagen or else the train.
Finally, the Faroe Islands. Not exactly close to Denmark, but so worth the trip. These rugged islands provide an absolute dream for any self-proclaimed nature enthusiasts or adventure seekers! It’s all about the dramatic landscapes when you come here. Think towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and green valleys dotted with cute, colorful houses. It’s like going to another planet!
If you’re a hiker, you’ll fall in love with every breathtaking trail. Photographer? Get ready to never want to leave. These islands offer some of the most stunning views you’ll ever see. I promise, promise, promise you, the Faroe Islands are an unforgettable destination.
Final Thoughts
Whew, that’s it! Hopefully, by now, you’ve fallen absolutely in love with Copenhagen and are getting ready to book your next trip here as soon as you finish this article . I know I can’t wait to return to this wonderful city.
It doesn’t matter who you are or who you’ll come with. Any person who loves to try new things and experience new places will relish every second within these borders. From young student backpackers to established businessmen and women, those traveling alone or in a group and with families, this great metropolis has something for everyone.
You'll find that every moment in this city is filled with charm and wonder. I wish you the best of luck on this or any of your future trips, and as always, be safe out there!
Happy travels!
about the author:
James Ryan is a seasoned hiker, backpacker, and adventurer who loves to travel and experience new things. An extrovert and creative at heart, James is most definitely a "People Person". He started his blog - thejamesguide.com - in the hopes of sharing his knowledge and expertise. Look him up and give him a shout today!
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