Denmark is an amazing country to explore, especially its capital, Copenhagen. The city is a delightful mix of history, culture, art, and nightlife, offering an array of attractions for everyone to enjoy.
With so many sites to visit and places to eat, choosing the best things to do in Copenhagen can be overwhelming, especially with limited time. After a few trips there, I’m excited to share some of my favorite spots. Remember, you don’t have to pack everything into your itinerary—exploring a new city should be enjoyable, not stressful.
Here are some must-see attractions in Copenhagen for your next adventure. It’s a fantastic city and certainly one of my top picks.
Rosenborg Castle, located in central Copenhagen, is a gorgeous royal castle steeped in centuries of history. You can easily spend a few hours exploring its beautiful gardens and fascinating rooms, including a look at the hidden jewels.
For accommodations, consider staying at Kong Arthur in the city center. We had a great experience there, enjoying its lovely spa area.
Since the closure of the Paper Island food market, Reffen has emerged as a fantastic alternative for street food in the Refshaleøen area. Whether you bike or take a bus from the city center, the trip is worth it for the diverse and delicious food from around the world.
The Rundetaarn, built in the 1600s, is a great place to explore if you’re interested in the city’s history. It’s Europe’s oldest observatory tower, and the climb up offers stunning views of Copenhagen.
Frederik’s Church, or the Marble Church, is another historical highlight in the Frederiksstaden district. Known for its impressive dome, the largest in Scandinavia, it’s reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. In the summer, you can even enjoy the views from the dome itself.
If you’re into palaces, Christianborg Palace is a must-visit. Although the current building is about 100 years old, the site’s history as a fortified location goes back nearly a thousand years. A combined ticket lets you tour the royal reception rooms, kitchens, and more, with a guided tour included.
The Little Mermaid statue is famous, but I have found it somewhat underwhelming. Still, it’s worth seeing, perhaps from a cruise boat.
Strøget is Europe’s longest pedestrian street filled with shops and cafes. If you enjoy shopping and don’t mind tourists, it’s a nice place to wander. For food, try Marv & Ben’s, known for their delicious lamb dishes.
Tivoli Gardens, adjacent to the central train station, is a must for fun. It inspired Walt Disney, and you can enjoy historic and modern attractions. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid crowds.
Amalienborg, the residence of the Danish royal family, is a stunning palace complex from the 1700s. Explore the accessible parts early in the day, as it closes by 3-4 pm.
Nyhavn, with its colorful houses and bustling waterfront, is iconic. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a coffee, or a bite to eat.
Built in the 1600s, Børsen is recognizable by its dragon-tailed spire. While you can’t tour the inside, it’s right next to Christiansborg Palace, making it easy to include in your itinerary.
The Meatpacking District, like London’s Shoreditch, offers edgy vibes with trendy restaurants, bars, and clubs. Places like WarPigs for beer and Kødbyens Fiskebar for dinner are notable stops.
Our Saviour’s Church, with its famous spire, is not to be missed. Climbing the 400 steps rewards you with fantastic city views.
Grundtvig’s Church in the Bispebjerg district stands out with its unique expressionist architecture. It’s reminiscent of Reykjavik’s church and worth visiting both inside and out.
For a peaceful walk, Churchill Park offers lovely grounds and historical sites like Kastellet and its windmill. It’s also a nice detour on your way to the Little Mermaid.
Lastly, Torvehallerne is the go-to place if you’re hungry in Copenhagen. Offering over fifty food stalls, it’s perfect for a winter day or when it’s raining. Don’t miss a coffee at Ø12 Coffee for some of the best brews in the city.