10 Must-See Places in Copenhagen, Denmark
So you’ve found yourself in the capital of one of the happiest countries on earth, Copenhagen! But what to do? Here are a few must-see spots in “The City of Spires”.
When I arrived in Copenhagen for the first time, I was visiting virtually sight unseen since I went for a study abroad program and wasn’t sure how much time I’d have to do self-exploration. However, I couldn’t have been more surprised by the city - in the best ways possible! With a cozy town-like atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and amazing people, Copenhagen quickly became one of my favorite places, all while still being the capital of Denmark with vibrant city life.
With a seemingly never-ending list of things to see and do, from waterfront activities and parks to festivals and amazing street food, there’s something for everyone in Copenhagen!
1). Christiansborg Palace
Once the royal palace, Christiansborg today serves as the seat of the Danish parliament located on the islet of Slotsholmen. Just walking around the grounds itself is breathtaking, however, there’s a host of different activities you can do here! For a fee (DKK 175 or around USD 24.75 as of 2023), you can tour the royal reception room, royal kitchen, the ruins, and the royal stables with the “combination ticket”, or if you prefer to only visit one of those spots you can just purchase a single ticket.
However, for those looking for free activities around the city, you’re in luck! Strolling around the grounds themselves is a must-see, especially the Garden of the Royal Library which today acts as a public green space with pathways, benches, and a shallow pond. After a busy day in the city, or even for a quiet spot to read or eat, the library gardens are the perfect spot.
Another free activity people don’t always know about? The Tower! Standing at 106 meters (~ 348 feet), the viewing platform at Christiansborg Palace is the tallest lookout point in Copenhagen and offers amazing, panoramic views of the city in addition to history lessons on the construction of the palace itself and other notable buildings across the city. Make a note though if you’re planning on visiting, the tower is open every day except for Mondays.
Tip: For some great views of the city, try to go to the tower on an overcast day. I thought it made all the colors of the city “pop” more and I didn’t have to worry about the angle of the sun in any of my photos.
2). Frederik's Church
Frederik’s Church, also known as the Marble Church - although not made from marble - features the largest dome in Scandinavia and equally stunning rococo architecture, potentially inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica. On the outside, the building features a prominent copper dome encircled by statues of famous theologians and intricate gold ornamentation.
Also in line with Amalienborg Palace, Amalienhaven, and the Copenhagen Opera House, the church is home to some of the best views throughout the city, and not a far walk away from many other famous landmarks. For those wanting to visit, the church is open every day of the week and since it’s a popular wedding spot, listen for wedding bells on/near the weekends.
Tip: After visiting if you’re in the mood to see more of Copenhagen’s various churches, head over to the Alexander Nevsky Church only 95 meters (~ 312 feet) away, which is the only Russian Orthodox church in Copenhagen, having been built in the late 1800s after the marriage of the Danish princess to Tsar Alexander III.
3). Nyhavn
A must-see list of Copenhagen wouldn’t be complete without the iconic colorful houses of Nyhavn that are so often linked with the city and Denmark in general. Built in the 17th century, the waterfront buildings served as an international, commercial port, however today the area has been revitalized as a lively area with canal-front shops and restaurants. Walking along the canal you experience the area's seafaring history, jazz music, and relaxed atmosphere, all while within a stone’s throw of great food.
Be sure to also be on the lookout for townhouse No. 9, which is the oldest house along the canal (dated from 1681) in addition to townhouses no. 18, 20, and 67, where famed writer Hans Christian Andersen lived for a time and even wrote some of his fairy tales.
Tip: If you just want to go to take photos or stroll along the canal early in the morning is probably the best time since not too many people are out. Afternoons and evenings are much busier with tourist groups and locals alike enjoying the sites and food spots.
4). Kastellet
One of the best-preserved fortresses in Northern Europe, Kastellet is a must-see for anyone visiting Copenhagen. Originally constructed in the 1600s, the citadel is still being used today with active military barracks and offices. Since the area is free to the public from 6 am - 10 pm, many locals use the walkways and star-shaped ramparts for recreation. Strolling through the citadel, which is accessed by bridges over the moat on the northern and southern sides of the fortress, the area features a church, red-brick buildings, cannons, and a windmill.
Tip: While at Kastellet, make sure to stop by St. Alban’s Church and the Gefion Fountain (Gefionspringvandet), located less than 300 m (~985 ft) away. The church was built in a Gothic Revival style while the fountain features a large depiction of the Norse goddess Gefjon on a plow pulled by oxen, depicting the mythical story of the creation of Zealand, the island on which Copenhagen is primarily located.
5). Rosenborg Castle
Built initially in the 17th century as a summer residence for the royal family by one of Denmark’s most famous kings, Christian IV, Rosenborg Castle now stands in the heart of the city. As if it appeared right off the pages of a fairy tale, the castle features a moat, red bricks, and turrets and is surrounded by Kongens Have (The King’s Garden).
Walking around the grounds, sculptures dot the area along with a rose garden, green spaces for people to lounge, and pavilions. For those wanting to get a more in-depth look at the palace, you can purchase a ticket (for DKK 130 or around $18.60 as of 2023) to see Denmark’s crown jewels, royal portraits, royal suites, and tapestries, however, keep in mind the hours it is open vary seasonally.
Tip: If you want to make an afternoon of the grounds, pack a picnic to eat in the King’s Garden like a local!
6). Tivoli Gardens
Opened in 1843, Tivoli is the world’s third-oldest amusement park and is certainly not to be missed. The tickets are a little more on the pricy side, however, you can just purchase an entrance ticket (for DKK 155 or about USD 22.18), or the Tivoli package (for DKK 439 or about USD 62.83) which includes your entrance fee in addition to an unlimited ride ticket.
With rides, games, cuisine, and architecture from around the world, it’s easy to see how Walt Disney was inspired by his visit in 1950 to design his parks. For those looking for rollercoaster rides, The Milky Way Express, is a fun option with a galactic theme, while The Roller Coaster is one of the world’s oldest running wooden rollercoasters. The Ferris Wheel is also a great way to get a bird’s eye view over the parks as well as the city in general. For a ride with more of a Danish twist, head over to The Flying Trunk, which shows - in an It’s a Small World fashion - 32 different fairy tale scenes from Hans Christian Andersen’s famous tales.
While it’s a vibrant and lively amusement park by day, Tivoli transforms into a fairytale-like setting by night with all the gentle lights that illuminate the walkways and rides, which in my opinion is worth visiting the park in itself. Whether it be for thrill-seekers or just those that enjoy artful landscaping and architecture, Tivoli Gardens has something for everyone!
Tip: If you’re visiting over the summer make sure to check out the fireworks show! Typically running from June to September, Tivoli Gardens creates a unique firework show every Saturday night, which can be enjoyed inside or outside the park.
7). Freetown Christiania
Possibly one of the most unique spots in Copenhagen, Freetown Christiania was originally founded in 1971 as an autonomous squatters community and today has about 1,000 residents where those in the community set the rules. While there are not any necessary “specific tourist attractions”, the whimsical community features art stalls, eateries, and bicycle shops - where the famous Christiania cargo bikes are sold. It’s also worth a wander to see the self-built houses, colorful murals, and waterfront setting that’s found on the easternmost canal that’s crisscrossed by wooden bridges and great views. However, an important note to keep in mind is to follow the community guidelines, which predominantly include not taking photos unless specified otherwise by signs.
Tip: While in Christiania, stop by Green George, a large troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo. In his collection of trolls made from recycled wood and materials, Dambo’s constructed a multitude of these troll sculptures all across the world! (Check out his map here to see where the closest one is to you.)
8). The Little Mermaid
No list to Copenhagen would be complete without the Little Mermaid sculpture or Den Lille Havfrue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen. While it may seem unassuming, this bronze and granite sculpture has become synonymous with the city and possibly one of its most visited attractions. Unveiled in 1913, the sculpture sits atop some rocks by the waterside just next to Langelinie Park, a green space and promenade, and was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, the son of the founder of Carlsberg, after he was inspired by the ballet at the Copenhagen Royal Theater.
While the statue may seem smaller in size when surrounded by a bunch of tourists, try to stop by early in the morning to beat the crowds. Having heard that it could be an underwhelming tourist stop I had expected the sculpture to be much smaller, however, enjoyed exploring the area with no crowds.
Tip: The Little Mermaid sculpture isn’t the only mermaid statue that can be found in Copenhagen. The city also hosts The Black Diamond Mermaid Statue, The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid, The Big Granite Mermaid, Agnete and the Mermen, and possibly more!
9). Amalienborg Palace
In the heart of Copenhagen lies Amalienborg Palace, the large complex that serves as one of the Danish royal family’s residences. Set in an octagon plaza, four buildings encircle Rytterstatuen (the equestrian sculpture), which faces toward Frederik’s Church. Depending on when you visit, make sure to look for the royal flags being raised, which means some of the royal family are currently there!
For a fee, you can experience two of the four palaces by booking a ticket (DKK 120 or around USD 17.31 as of 2023) to see the museum which features select interiors of previous Danish monarchs as well as an exhibit on the current monarchy today. If you’re looking for more free activities to do, check out the changing of the guards' ceremony, which happens every day at noon. But make sure to get there a bit before 12 pm if this is on your itinerary since it generally gets crowded with people and tour groups stopping for the event.
Tip: Continue from Amalienborg towards the waterfront to the southeast of the plaza, which will land you in Amaliehaven, a small park that features manicured hedges, sculptures, and a large fountain. Whether for some photos or a peaceful stroll, Amaliehaven is a great place to check out!
10). Børsen
As one of the oldest buildings in Copenhagen, Børsen, is also one of the most unique in terms of architectural design. Previously serving as the Old Stock Exchange, the building was constructed in 1640 and was - at one point - the financial center of Denmark with merchants and sailors docking to do business there.
The roof, now topped in copper with a spire shaped like dragons with entwined tails is said to have been designed to protect the building from fires. While there’s no definitive proof of this, it is interesting to know that the Old Stock Exchange was one of the only buildings in the area to have not been destroyed by a fire. At the top of the spire, the building is topped with three crowns to symbolize the relationship between the three Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Denmark, and Norway). Even though the building is not open to the public, it’s still a fascinating space to stop, enjoy the architecture and take some photos.
Tip: If you want to learn more about the specifics of various buildings throughout Copenhagen, hop on one of the local canal cruises that you can board at various points across the city. The guides are extremely well-versed in the history of the city and buildings and give amazing insight. Even better? If you’re at Børsen, there’s a boarding point for Stromma Canal Tours at Ved Stranden about 350 meters (~ 1,150 ft) away that will pass by the various spires and into the main canal (Københavns Havn) to hit all the other notable points of the city.
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