Denmark is a fantastic country to explore, and its capital, Copenhagen, is no exception. This European city offers a bit of everything, from history and art to a vibrant nightlife. There’s no shortage of amazing things to do throughout the city.
When visiting, it can be tough to choose what to do, especially if you’re short on time. After several visits, I’ve accumulated some favorite spots. But remember, there’s no need to rush and see everything; exploring should be enjoyable, not stressful.
Here are a few of the best things to do in Copenhagen. It’s an amazing place and one of my top picks.
Right in the heart of Copenhagen, you’ll find Rosenborg Castle, a magnificent royal castle filled with centuries of history. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring its grounds. Be sure to check out the city’s oldest gardens, wander the castle’s rooms, and see the jewels kept below ground.
If you’re looking for accommodation, consider checking into the Kong Arthur, centrally located with a lovely spa area.
After the Paper Island food market closed, Reffen emerged as a delicious street food alternative. It’s situated in the Refshaleøen area and is best accessed by bike or bus. With a wide range of stalls offering tasty dishes from around the world, it’s a must-visit for food lovers.
For history buffs, climbing the Rundetaarn, Europe’s oldest observatory tower built in the 1600s, offers a fantastic view of the city. The spiral path to the top was reportedly designed so horses could reach the summit. Along the way, you might catch one of the art exhibitions hosted there.
Another historical gem is Frederik’s Church in the Frederiksstaden district. Known as the Marble Church, it’s the largest dome church in Scandinavia and reminds many visitors of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. During summer, you can even enjoy views from the dome.
Christiansborg Palace, used by the government and for royal events, is a must-see if you love palaces. Although the current castle is relatively new, the site has hosted fortifications for almost 1,000 years. You can buy a combined ticket to explore the royal rooms, ruins, kitchens, and stables, complete with a guided tour.
While the Little Mermaid is a famous Copenhagen statue, some visitors find it underwhelming. It might be a “tick-the-box” spot for some, but if interested, you can see it from one of the city’s many cruise boats.
Strøget is Europe’s longest pedestrian street, packed with shops, cafes, and more. It’s great for shopping, but can be busy with tourists. If you’re hungry, try Marv & Ben’s for fantastic local dishes, though reservations are recommended.
For fun in the city, Tivoli Gardens is a must-visit. It’s close to the central train station and filled with both old and new attractions. The park reportedly inspired Walt Disney’s creation of Disneyland. Be sure to ride the wooden Roller Coaster from 1914 and catch a show at the Pantomime Theatre.
The Danish royal family calls Amalienborg home. Built in the 1700s, it’s actually a set of four palaces. You can explore two of them, but visiting earlier is best as it closes in mid-afternoon.
Nyhavn, with its colorful houses and water-lined streets, is a renowned Copenhagen area. Perfect for a morning visit to avoid crowds, you can enjoy a coffee or cocktail and grab a bite along the main street.
The Old Stock Exchange, Børsen, dates back to the 1600s and features a striking dragon-tailed spire, though you can’t go inside. Nearby, the Meatpacking District offers more of an edge with independent eateries and bars, plus art exhibitions at the V1 Gallery.
Our Saviour’s Church is a baroque wonder with a famous serpentine spire, offering panoramic city views from the top. It requires climbing about 400 steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
In the Bispebjerg district, Grundtvig’s Church stands out with its expressionist architecture. It’s worth visiting both the inside and outside.
For a relaxing stroll, Churchill Park is a lovely public space that was once part of Kastellet. Explore the historic windmill and beautiful grounds while visiting the nearby Little Mermaid.
Finally, Torvehallerne is a fantastic market to satisfy your hunger, with over fifty food stalls to explore. The covered area is perfect for rainy days or winter visits. Don’t miss Ø12 Coffee for some of the city’s best brews.