Copenhagen is one of the most visitor-friendly cities in Europe, with clean, reliable public transport, a compact, traffic-free centre that’s easy to explore on foot, landmark buildings, interesting museums and great food. It’s proud of its heritage but unafraid to embrace the present and look positively to the future.
Take a trip back in time to the 12th-century origins of the city through chronological displays in the City Museum, and trace the history of the warmongering Vikings who put Denmark firmly on the world map at the National Museum of Denmark. Visit Amalienborg Palace, present home of the Danish royal family, then admire the crown jewels and other royal memorabilia in their former residence, Rosenborg Castle, set in a beautiful royal park.
Climb the vertiginous corkscrew spire of the Church of Our Saviour to get your bearings from the topmost point you can see right across this well-laid-out city to the harbour and the ultramodern Copenhagen Opera House, built with no expense spared at the turn of the 21st century and set on its own island.
During the harsh winters, many outdoor attractions are closed or have restricted opening hours. In the summer months, however, the long, light nights and pleasant climate are perfect for open-air concerts, alfresco dining and picnics in the parks. The Tivoli Gardens have been welcoming pleasure-seekers since 1842 and have lost none of their historic charm in the intervening decades. Families will enjoy watching the animals being fed at Copenhagen Zoo or climbing the steps to the top of the palm house at the Botanical Gardens, which boasts the largest collection of plants in Denmark.
No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without taking a walk along the waterfront to see the Little Mermaid, who sits on a rock overlooking the harbour lamenting her lost prince. Inspired by the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, this modest sculpture has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Copenhagen
Where to stay in Copenhagen
Copenhagen City Centre
Known for its beautiful gardens, captivating waterfront views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Copenhagen City Centre. Top attractions like Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Christmas Market are major draws. Catch the metro at Kongens Nytorv Station or Gammel Strand Station to see more of the city.
København V
If you're spending time in København V, check out sights like Tivoli Gardens or Wallmans Circus Building and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Copenhagen Vesterport Station or Rådhuspladsen Station.
Vesterbro
Vesterbro is a destination travellers like for its restaurants, and you might hop aboard the metro at Enghave Plads Station or Copenhagen Dybbolsbro Station to explore sights like Vega.
Østerbro
The restaurants and waterfront are just a few things visitors like about Østerbro. Parken Stadium and Svanemølle Strand are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Poul Henningsens Plads Station or Copenhagen Svanemollen Station to get around the larger area.
Nørrebro
Nørrebro is well liked for its restaurants and live music. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, Natural History Museum of Denmark and Superkilen Park are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Skjolds Plads Station or Nørrebros Runddel Station to get around.
Amager Vest
If you're spending time in Amager Vest, check out sights like Field's Shopping Centre or Royal Arena and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Bella Center Station or Sundby Station.
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Popular places to visit
Tivoli Gardens
This historic amusement park is where the famously cool Danes come to let their hair down.
Nyhavn
Copenhagen’s dilapidated old harbour district has been revitalised with a string of lively bars and stylish restaurants.
Copenhagen Zoo
This historic zoo is a leader in wildlife conservation as well as one of the city’s most popular visitor attractions.
Little Mermaid
Copenhagen’s famous sculpture has been one of the city’s must-see landmarks for a hundred years.
City Hall Square
You can learn about the history of Copenhagen when you stop by City Hall Square. Amble around this trendy area's waterfront or seek out the cycling trails.
Bakken Amusement Park
Bring the family to Bakken Amusement Park and enjoy this exciting theme park in Klampenborg. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this trendy area.
Things to do
Copenhagen: Tivoli Gardens Entry Ticket
The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour
Copenhagen: Tivoli Gardens Unlimited Rides Pass
Guided Canal Tour in Copenhagen by Electric Boat
Malmö & Lund Tour, Crossing the Øresund Bridge to Sweden
Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Reviews of Copenhagen
4/5 - Good
Copenhagen was a lovely for a 3 day trip, some very pretty sights to see! The people are very polite and welcoming and overall had a great time!
4/5 - Good
Sadly the Tivoli gardens were not open which I would have liked to see
5/5 - Excellent
Loved our visit. It was a bit cold as March but had warm clothes. The food was wonderful and also a few locally brewed beers. Everyone was very friendly. We only had 3 days so didn’t get to see all we wanted but will return.
4/5 - Good
One thing to bare in mind very few places except cash. Card only.
4/5 - Good
Had a very nice atmosphere and my favourite city I've visited
5/5 - Excellent
Good walking town...easy to navigate. Feels safe and very orderly