Copenhagen is the perfect destination for those who want to experience everything Denmark has to offer. From its beautiful architecture and historical sights to its trendy restaurants and lively nightlife, there are many wonderful things to do in Copenhagen.
Some of the top things to do in Copenhagen include visiting the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, exploring Rosenborg Castle, taking a boat tour around the city, and indulging in the local ale.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do in Copenhagen that will make your trip unforgettable.
Wondering how to spend your time in this Scandinavian destination?
We have a list of our top 10 things to do!
Top 10 Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark
1. Christiansborg Palace
This former palace was the home of many Danish monarchs throughout centuries.
Now, it is the place where Queen Margrethe II & the Prince consort hosts dignitaries and where the Danish Parliament meets.
What makes the formal palace remarkable is that it has an amazing history that dates back to the 12th century.
Your tour ticket will allow you to see various Royal Rooms at Christiansborg Palace, the Queen’s Tapestries, and the Royal Jewels.
If you want to see a beautiful view of Copenhagen, you can climb the Tower in Christiansborg which is the tallest in Copenhagen!
Entry is FREE with Copenhagen Card
2. Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle was originally built as a country summerhouse for King Christian IV. Now, it is a Royal museum containing historical artifacts and the Royal collections.
A tour of Rosenborg Castle will give you a glimpse at what life was like for the Royal family who lived here.
While you will see ordinary items, like desks, clocks, and china, you will also get to see some of the more unique pieces like the ornately decorated coronation chairs that are guarded by three silver lions.
See the Full Tour of Rosenborg Castle.
3. Hans Christian Andersen Experience
Known throughout the world for his fairytales, you can learn about his childhood, how Copenhagen shaped his life, and where he got his inspiration for his stories.
The exhibitions showcase his most famous works with light and sound effects to make the fairytales come to life.
Admission is FREE with Copenhagen Card
4. Little Mermaid Statue
One of the top things to do in Copenhagen is to see The Little Mermaid statue by Edvard Eriksen.
Inspired by the Fairytale of Hans Christian Andersen, this statue is one of the most photographed in all of Scandinavia.
You will be able to view it from the Canal boat tour, but it is more impressive if you see it from land. The Statue is near Langelinje Pier.
5. Tivoli Gardens
If you are travelling with kids to Copenhagen, one place you should visit is Tivoli Gardens. It is the amusement park that inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland.
You will find all different types of rides and attractions that everyone from kids to teens will enjoy.
The Copenhagen Card will give you entry to Tivoli Gardens, but ride tickets must be purchased separately.
Free with Copenhagen Card
6. National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark is located in the Prince’s Palace which dates back to the 18th century.
You’ll find exhibits & artifacts from the Stone Age, Vikings, Middle Ages, & Renaissance as well as modern Danish history.
If you are traveling with kids to Copenhagen, you will also appreciate the children’s museum section where kids can do hands-on learning!
Entry is FREE with Copenhagen Card
7. Carlsburg Museum
If you like beer, you should take the time to tour the Carlsberg Museum.
There is a free shuttle bus that will take you to the museum from the Copenhagen city center.
There you can take a guided tour and sample Carlsberg Beer.
If you have the Copenhagen Card, you get a free beer (or soda). The last tour & tasting is a 4pm and it closes at 6pm.
8. Roskilde Viking Ship Museum
The Viking history in Denmark is pretty amazing. One place where you can learn about Copenhagen’s Viking history is the Roskilde Viking Museum.
It showcases both REAL Viking ships and artifacts from when Vikings actually lived in Denmark and recreated ships based on how the Vikings would have made them during their time.
See more on the Roskilde Viking Museum
Admission is FREE with Copenhagen Card
9. Roskilde Cathedral
This 12th-century cathedral is Scandinavia’s first Gothic cathedral to be built of brick and it encouraged the spread of this style throughout northern Europe.
Because of this, it has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site.
More than 40 kings and queens of Denmark are buried inside the church.
10. Canal Tour
One of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to take a canal boat tour.
You will get to see popular Copenhagen landmarks like Amalienborg Palace, The Old Stock Exchange, Christianshavn, Our Saviours Church, The Sixtus Battery, The Black Diamond, ‘BLOX’, and the Little Mermaid Statue.
Canal Boat Ride is free with Copenhagen Card
How to Get Around in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is pedestrian-friendly. This means that you will find it easy to walk to most of the places you’ll want to explore.
It is also cycle-friendly, with plenty of bike paths throughout the city.
There is also an extensive transit system and if you get the Copenhagen Card, it will be included.
When is the best time to visit Copenhagen?
Copenhagen is beautiful most of the year, but we think that the perfect time to visit Copenhagen is in the early summer.
Summers in Copenhagen are mild (64-75 degrees Fahrenheit /18-24 degrees Celsius) which allows you to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about being cold.
You can enjoy a meal outside at Reffen (an organic street food market) or stroll Strøget (Copenhagen’s main shopping street).
Later in the summer months, you will find people swimming in the canals (they are actually quite clean) and sunbathing in the park.
Why You Should Get The Copenhagen Card
Copenhagen is an expensive city to visit and the Copenhagen card will save you some money and allow you to save time by not having to stand in so many lines.
- Free admission to many popular museums and attractions
- Free public transportation by bus, train and Metro
- Discounts on restaurants, attractions and entertainment
- Cards for up to 2 children under 10 are free
The Copenhagen Card is available as a 24, 48, 72, or 120-hour card both for adults and children.
Guides to Copenhagen
If you are making the trip to Copenhagen, we have perfect Itineraries along with guides to going to Copenhagen with kids!
Have you traveled to Copenhagen? What were your favorite things to do?