Copenhagen has a vibrant atmosphere that blends historic charm with intricate architecture. With a variety of cafés, restaurants, bars, and attractions, the city provides a feast for the eyes and the senses. So which venues must be on your bucket list? Whether you are here for a short impromptu trip or planning to stay longer, you will appreciate these ten attractions every visitor to Copenhagen can’t miss.
Nyhavn
The 17th-century harbor is the city’s most iconic, lined with wooden ships, modern boats, and vibrantly colored townhouses and restaurants. Nyhavn has transitioned from an old port to a remarkable spot for locals to savour a cold beer on a hot summer’s day. Nyhavn attracts a crowd all year round, but summer is its prime season. Packed with visiting sailors, tourists, and locals, the restaurants and pubs serve a range of cold drafts and traditional Danish open sandwiches with smoked eel, herring, and other seafood delicacies. Nestled among the colourful old Danish houses, Hans Christian Andersen, a famous Danish author, lived at No 20. Wherever you walk down Nyhavn, you are guaranteed to walk in his footsteps as you are greeted by summer revelers enjoying the relaxed atmosphere along the canal.
Tivoli
When you enter Tivoli, you are transported to an enchanting world of fairytale-inspired architecture, manicured gardens, and adrenaline-pumping rides. Founded in 1843, Tivoli is a national treasure. It is the world’s second oldest amusement park, undoubtedly inspiring the likes of Hans Christian Andersen and Walt Disney. Combining nostalgic rides and thrill-seeking escapades, the amusement park has a quirky and charming atmosphere. At night thousands of twinkling lights make the park look like a scene from a fairytale. The park’s summer music program includes a variety of performances at its many stages, with an action-packed agenda of local and international performers to entertain its ever-growing crowd.
The Little Mermaid
The classic fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen has captivated the young and old alike. That’s why Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen decided to commission a sculpture in her honour after watching a ballet performance based on the famed fairytale. The statue, which graces the quiet Langelinie harbour was officially unveiled on August 23, 1913. Unarguably one of Copenhagen’s most iconic attractions, the Little Mermaid continues to make headlines after repeated vandalism attacks. The statue’s head was initially modeled after the ballet performer Ellen Price, but the sculptor’s wife, Eline Eriksen, modeled for it instead.
Amalienborg Palace
Royal fans can peek into the ancient and modern royal life at the Amalienborg Palace Museum. Located in the city’s heart, it is just a short walk from the Little Mermaid. Famous for its Royal Guards, every day at noon, the changing of the guards takes place as the guards’ march from their barracks through the streets of Copenhagen, often accompanied by music. Comprised of four identical buildings, the Danish Royal family still uses the palace. Visiting the palace’s museum gives you a glimpse of former kings, queens, and their descendants. Each room reflects insight into the monarchy, with plenty of opportunities to explore opulent rooms like the Gala Hall and the Royal reception rooms still used by the royal family for representation.
Rosenborg Castle
Located just outside Copenhagen in the park area called “The King’s Garden,” Rosenborg Castle is home to Denmark’s crown jewels. The crown jewels are kept in unique vaults and consist of all the delicate and glittering crowns of the Danish kings and queens. As you step into the castle’s interior, you are greeted by lavishly decorated rooms with huge paintings and tapestries that commemorate the battles between Denmark and Sweden. Taking you back on a journey in time, you can step into the stomping grounds of royals to view the king’s private writing cabinet, along with an exquisite collection of Flora Danica, one of the world’s finest Venetian glass collections.
Stroget
More than just a busy street, Stroget is a car-free zone and shopping district that stretches across the heart of Copenhagen. There are plenty of things to see and do in Stroget. However, shopping is by all means the most popular attraction. Here you will come across designer stores like Boss, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and many other big names. One of Stroget’s most visited stores is the iconic Royal Copenhagen porcelain store and factory, which sells unique dinnerware and china. As you stroll through Stroget, you will come across Helligandskirk Church, where Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary were married. You can also check out the Stork Fountain, and City Hall Tower, along with a variety of restaurants, pubs, and sidewalk cafes.
Christianshavn
If you love street art and murals, you should stop by Christianshavn, one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque districts. Comprised of a small group of islands, the quiet neighbourhood is best explored by bike or on foot along the quays of its canals. The group of islands that make up this area is called Christiania. Once there, you can also explore the Baroque Church known for its unique spiral staircase that will lead you to breathtaking views of the city. Make sure to visit the impressive ancient and modern masterpieces of art and historical artifacts at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek.
Royal Danish Theatre
Gracing Kongens Nytorv since 1784, the Royal Danish Theatre hosts several performances, including classical ballet, opera, and staged plays. Being one of the oldest theatres in Copenhagen, the theatre was host to many famous Danish personalities like Soren Kierkegaard, a popular Danish philosopher who frequently watched theatrical performances like Mozart’s opera. Danish fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen was also a member of the Royal Danish Opera and frequently watched opera, ballet, and plays. The Royal Danish Theatre has undergone several renovations to expand its space and improve the acoustics. After all, the building is an architectural marvel with a unique historical significance that impacts the Danish art and culture scene.
Karen Blixen Museum
Since opening its doors in 1991, the Karen Blixen Museum has welcomed over a million visitors. The childhood home of the famous writer best known for her novel Out of Africa, is located near Rungsted harbour. The home features a trove of exhibits showcasing books, letters, and art by Denmark’s greatest author. A stroll across the house leads you to beautiful rooms with impressive bouquets, chests, and dressers. Blixen’s own unique flower arrangements inspire many of the flower bouquets. The museum has a documentary about Blixen’s life, with a gallery featuring many of her paintings and artwork.
Islands Brygge
Copenhagen’s former industrial harbour has come a long way. With a unique and vibrant life, Islands Brygge offers various outdoor activities. The harbour bath is popular among many locals for a swim on a hot summer’s day. The huge lawn along the waterfront hosts summer barbeques and picnics. Islands Brygge has become an iconic spot for summer revelers and families to swim in the city’s center. On hot days, locals frequently pass by to take the plunge on their way home from work. After all, it is only a stone’s throw from the center of Copenhagen and the Metro to the airport.
