25 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, From Palace Visits to Waterfront Strolls

25 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, From Palace Visits to Waterfront Strolls

Explore Copenhagen's highlights! Discover royal history at Rosenborg Castle and Amalienborg Palace. Stroll along the iconic Nyhavn waterfront. Immerse yourself in art at Glyptoteket or experience the thrill of Tivoli Gardens. Enjoy the bohemian atmosphere of Christiania. Don't miss the Little Mermaid statue and explore diverse museums. Find local insights with our travel guide.

Must-See Historical Sites

Immerse yourself in Copenhagen's rich past by visiting these iconic landmarks:

  1. Amalienborg Palace: Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the winter residence of the Danish royal family.
  2. Rosenborg Castle: Explore this Renaissance castle, home to the Danish Crown Jewels and historical artifacts.
  3. Christiansborg Palace: Discover the seat of the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Prime Minister's Office.
  4. Kastellet: Stroll through this well-preserved star-shaped fortress, offering scenic views and historical insights.
  5. Kronborg Castle (Hamlet's Castle): Take a day trip to Helsingør and visit the famous castle immortalized by Shakespeare.

Iconic Landmarks and Attractions

No trip to Copenhagen is complete without seeing these famous sights:

  1. The Little Mermaid: Pay a visit to the iconic statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale.
  2. Nyhavn: Enjoy a picturesque walk along the colorful waterfront, lined with restaurants and cafes.
  3. Tivoli Gardens: Experience the magic of this historic amusement park, offering rides, gardens, and entertainment.
  4. The Round Tower: Climb the spiral ramp of this 17th-century observatory for panoramic city views.
  5. Christiania: Explore this unique "free town" known for its alternative lifestyle and street art.

Cultural Experiences

Delve into Copenhagen's vibrant cultural scene:

  1. National Museum of Denmark: Discover Danish history and culture through fascinating exhibits.
  2. Glyptoteket: Admire a collection of ancient and modern art in a beautiful museum setting.
  3. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: Take a short train ride to Humlebæk and experience world-class modern art with stunning sea views.
  4. The David Collection: Explore Islamic art and Danish Golden Age paintings in this elegant museum.
  5. Canal Tour: Take a boat tour to see Copenhagen from a different perspective.

Foodie Adventures

Indulge in Copenhagen's culinary delights:

  1. Torvehallerne Market: Sample a variety of local and international foods at this bustling market.
  2. Smørrebrød: Try traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches, a true culinary experience.
  3. Noma: If you can get a reservation, experience world-renowned New Nordic cuisine at this Michelin-starred restaurant (reservations required months in advance).
  4. Street Food at Reffen: Enjoy a diverse selection of street food vendors at this vibrant outdoor food market.
  5. Visit a Brewery: Copenhagen is home to several craft breweries offering tours and tastings.

Relaxation and Outdoor Activities

Escape the hustle and bustle with these relaxing activities:

  1. King's Garden (Kongens Have): Relax in this beautiful park surrounding Rosenborg Castle.
  2. Assistens Cemetery: Explore this peaceful cemetery, the final resting place of famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard.
  3. Frederiksberg Garden: Enjoy a scenic walk or picnic in this large park with lakes, canals, and a zoo.
  4. Rent a Bike: Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city, so explore the city on two wheels.
  5. Go for a Swim: Take a dip in the harbor baths, designed for swimming in the clean waters of Copenhagen's harbor.

Planning Your Trip: Essential Information

To help you organize your visit, here's a quick reference guide:

CategoryDetails
Best Time to VisitSpring (April-May) and Summer (June-August) offer pleasant weather. Shoulder seasons (September-October) can also be good with fewer crowds.
Getting AroundCopenhagen has an excellent public transportation system including metro, buses, and trains. Biking is also very popular.
CurrencyDanish Krone (DKK)
LanguageDanish, but English is widely spoken.
AccommodationChoose from a range of hotels, hostels, and Airbnb options to suit your budget. Consider staying in areas like Vesterbro, Nørrebro, or Indre By (city center).

Copenhagen offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and modern living. With this list of the 25 best things to do, you're well-equipped to create an unforgettable experience in this charming Scandinavian capital. Remember to prioritize the historical sites, embrace the foodie adventures, and relax with the various outdoor activities. Enjoy your trip to Copenhagen!

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