20 top Attractions in Copenhagen: explore the vibrant and exciting capital city of Denmark (Updated 2023)

Copenhagen, the vibrant capital city of Denmark, is a fascinating destination filled with a diverse array of cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks. From stunning royal palaces and picturesque canals to trendy neighborhoods and world-class museums, Copenhagen offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 20 top attractions in Copenhagen to help you make the most of your trip. I love visiting this enchanting city and discover why it’s one of Europe’s most popular destinations and here the best places to explore in the city.

It’s late afternoon along the waterfront at Nyhavn, one of the busiest and popular tourist attractions in Copenhagen’s harbor area. But surprisingly it feels very festive and genuine – even the locals are coming down to enjoy the sun and do some people watching along the boardwalk. But they are smarter, bringing their own beverages and sitting along the docks or open spaces at a fraction of what it would cost to sit and drink one beer at any of the bars and cafes lining Nyhavn’s colorful waterfront area.  I find out that those few perfect sunny days in Copenhagen are to really treasured times for locals,  everyone comes out to celebrate with friends and savor the moment, blue skies and great company. There are many places to visit in Copenhagen that are touristy but also authentic and many off the beaten path and fun to discover below. Put these 20 top places to visit in Copenhagen on your bucket list of places to visit in the city when you are planning a trip to beautiful Copenhagen.

You’ll love visiting these cool places to visit in Copenhagen with historic appeal, fun and funky neighborhoods and amazing cuisine to experience. If you’re wondering what to see in Copenhagen in one day or longer, check out all these popular and local activities around the city to enjoy and discover on your own.

20 top places to visit in Copenhagen (historic landmarks, cool neighborhoods and fantastic places to eat)

Copenhagen places to visit – colorful Nyhaven district

When to visit these Copenhagen attractions in Denmark?

A bustling, colorful and fun city that is always changing with cool neighborhoods to explore, cutting edge dining scenes, historic treasures to explore and quirky places to visit around the city, Copenhagen is vibrant and wonderful to explore. Copenhagen is lively and fun to visit in the summer to early fall months when everyone wants to be outdoors and exploring the Copenhagen attractions, fun parks, neighborhoods and cool hang out spots in the city.

You’ll enjoy visiting all the Copenhagen sites in the capitol city with its’ unique attractions and neighborhoods to explore. There are so many unique and fun places to visit in Copenhagen’s many districts that really give you a sense of place and the food to try here in the city is international with a bent towards fresh and farm to table ingredients that are sourced locally and enjoyed by everyone.

The Weather in Copenhagen and what’s the best time to visit

Weather in Copenhagen: Copenhagen experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cold winters. The city is known for its changeable weather, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.

Summer (June to August): During summer, Copenhagen experiences relatively mild temperatures with average highs ranging from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F). It’s the peak tourist season, and you can expect longer daylight hours, making it a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoy various festivals and events.

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to October): Spring and autumn bring mild to cool temperatures with average highs ranging from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F). These shoulder seasons are also a good time to visit Copenhagen, as the weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

Winter (November to February): Winter in Copenhagen is cold, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). While the city can be quite charming during the holiday season with its festive decorations and markets, it’s not the best time for outdoor activities due to the colder weather.

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen: The best time to visit Copenhagen largely depends on your preferences. If you enjoy milder weather and want to experience the city when it’s most vibrant, consider visiting during the summer months (June to August). However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so accommodations and attractions may be more crowded.

How to get around Copenhagen

Navigating Copenhagen is a relatively easy various transportation options. In the heart of the city most of the attractions and neighborhoods are easy to get to by walking. Here’s your guide on how to get around the Danish capital:

Biking: Copenhagen is renowned as one of the most bike-friendly cities globally, with dedicated lanes and a bike-sharing system. Rent a bike and explore the city at your own pace. Don’t miss the chance to ride along the picturesque waterfront.

Public Transport: The city boasts an efficient public transport network, including buses, trains, and the metro. Purchase a Rejsekort (travel card) for convenience, or buy individual tickets. The metro is especially handy for reaching neighborhoods like Vesterbro and Nørrebro quickly.

Walking: Copenhagen is a pedestrian-friendly city with well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a pleasant way to explore.

Boat Tours: Given its coastal location, Copenhagen offers scenic boat tours. Hop on a harbor cruise or canal tour to see the city from a different perspective. You can even use water buses for a unique commute.

Taxi and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive. Consider using rideshare apps like Uber for a more cost-effective option.

Electric Scooters: Copenhagen has electric scooter rental services that are perfect for short trips within the city. Keep an eye out for designated parking zones.

Trains to Nearby Cities: If you’re planning day trips or visiting nearby cities like Malmö in Sweden, the train network is convenient and offers a seamless travel experience.

Copenhagen Card: Consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card, which provides unlimited public transport and access to many attractions for a fixed period.

Airport Transportation: The Copenhagen Airport is well-connected to the city center via the metro and trains, ensuring a smooth transition from your flight to your accommodation.

Remember that Copenhagen is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and green transportation, so take advantage of eco-friendly options like biking and public transit to fully immerse yourself in the city’s culture while minimizing your environmental impact. Enjoy your journey through this charming Scandinavian capital!

Here are the best 20 things to see around the capital city of Copenhagen 

Copenhagen’s attractions are easy city to explore and even walk around the main attractions around the center of town which are clustered around Slotsholmen, and just outside into the new sections of the city at Christian Town. Within the island of Slotsholmen are many historic treasures, palaces, museums and the Danish Parliament. And just across the canal are many landmarks that are easy to find along the main promenade you’ll find Copenhagen’s main attractions: the Stroget, Nyhavn, Old town hall, Round tower, just to name a few. It’s easy to cover many of the monuments and attractions in one full day, but Copenhagen is a city to be savored slowly, and enjoy the busy and quiet places at a leisurely pace. 

Checking out the Historic central district of Copenhagen

The historic central district of Copenhagen, also known as Indre By, is the heart of the city and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Denmark’s capital. This charming area is filled with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. From grand royal palaces to cozy cafes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a picturesque stroll, the historic central district of Copenhagen is sure to captivate you with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.

Copenhagen at the Stroget - 20 top attractions and cool hangout spots in Copenhagen

Copenhagen at the Stroget

1. Strøget shopping street

One of the top sites of Copenhagen to visit is Stroget street. Copenhagen’s largest outdoor shopping street in the central district is called Stroget,  a popular shopping venue with pedestrian only promenades filled with popular stores.  The main square around Stroget is called the Amagertorv with an ornate stork fountain done in Dutch renaissance style. Located in the center of the square, the fountain was built to celebrate the silver wedding anniversary of King Frederik VIII to Queen Louise – the fountain was given to them by the city council and commemorated in 1894.  Stroget has many of the world’s international fashion and product brands including: H&M, Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and many well known designers. One of the fun things to do in Copenhagen is explore the main promenade which feature many local design shops and specialty Danish stores including: Mads Nørgaard design, Birger Christensen, the Hay house,  Trollbeads and Sand which features Danish designs for men’s and women’s wear.

For a comprehensive list of Danish designs and other cool shops to check out at Stroget, visit Visit Copenhagen’s site here.

Let’s do a shopping tour experience here below

Copenhagen City Hall Square - Fantasy dragon at city hall square - A first impression of Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen City Hall Square – Fantasy dragon at city hall square – A first impression of Copenhagen, Denmark

2. Town hall square, Rådhuspladsen

 

One of the most frequented and top Copenhagen sights is the town hall or Radhuspladsen. The main square of Copenhagen is simply called Copenhagen town hall square or Rådhuspladsen.  It is fashioned in an Italian Renaissance style with Danish influence that was popular during the timeframe of its build.  On the main tower of the town hall is a large ornate world clock created by Jens Olsen, one of the pre-eminent clock markers who created one of the most accurate, large scale devices in the world. The façade of the main town hall is ornate with beautiful detailed craftsmanship created by local designers and craftsmen

**You can sign up for a guided tour of the Copenhagen City Hall here for more information and entry.

Façade of the old town hall at Raduspladsen, Copenhagen

Façade of the old town hall at Raduspladsen, Copenhagen

The Raduspladsen is a wonderful place to be in the moment, capture some photographs or just sit in a café on the square to enjoy the views and people watching. The square is a popular gathering spot for political, social and large entertainment events in the city.  When you visit this Copenhagen sightseeing venue, make sure to check out all the fantastical details around this famous Copenhagen attraction. In the middle is a wonderful fantasy dragon fountain made with three large dragons around a bronze basin in different poses, offering a wonderful and creative look at Danish artistry and design during the early 1920’s.

There’s always fun events happening at the main City Hall Square in Radhuspladsen below

Tivoli gardens in Copenhagen

Copenhagen top attractions- Tivoli gardens at night

3. Tivoli Gardens

Of all the places to visit in Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens is one of the most popular attractions. This iconic Copenhagen attraction combines a fun adventure park with gardens and other fun local activities and colorful places to hang out in the historic district. This popular amusement park and local attractions is open all day into late at night when many locals and visitors come for entertainment. The amusement park located next to Copenhagen’s main train station was started in 1843 and quickly became the city’s fun pleasure garden for crazy rides, shows and attractive food venues. The park has evolved with current tastes to include more off the wall amusement rides, beautiful gardens, light shows and events to make this a fun attraction during the day time or late at night when the entire park is magically illuminated.  The park draws in over 4 million visitors annually and is the most popular theme park in all of Scandinavia. For more information on events and activities in the park, you can visit the Tivoli website here

**Get your  entry to the Tivoli Gardens in advanced here to avoid the lines from this attraction

Entry to the Tivoli Gardens at night

One of the best things to do in Copenhagen at night, visiting the Tivoli Gardens and seeing all the attractions and venues lit up creates this magical experience to explore and enjoy the entire amusement park. It’s fun to hang out, grab a bite to eat, enjoy some of the amusement rides and of course enjoy the many brew gardens in the park in this iconic Copenhagen tourist attraction.

Tivoli Gardens in central Copenhagen

Tivoli Gardens in central Copenhagen

Check out the fun around Tivoli Gardens below

4. Carlsberg 

One of the cool and satisifying Copenhagen attractions is a visit to Carlsberg. For beer lovers, a visit to the Carlsberg breweries is a must at the town of Valby, which is close to the city center. Valby is the location of the first Carlsberg brewery in Denmark. Outside of the main brewery, there are many warehouses and beautiful brick buildings that are being repurposed into mixed used places for locals and eventually tourists to visit. The old brewery is open to visitors to tour the historical facility and buildings, art collections and stable grounds. With the entry price, there are free guided tours with an overview of the history, brew making story and architecture at Carlsberg.

The brewery is famous for its beautiful brick buildings constructed in the early 19th and 20th centuries with gorgeous facades and ornamentation and details. The brewery also has two gardens, stables, villas and an art museum worth visiting. You can also sample some of their famous beers at Jacobsen Brewhouse & Bar. For more information about visiting the brewery and a calendar of events, you can check out the Carlsberg website here.

One of the top attractions in Copenhagen, a visit to Carlsberg is a must for beer enthusiasts and drinkers.

Here’s a quick video of the old brewery interiors and the Carlsberg stables below shared by gatorpics09  to give you a look around the area.

Visit the cultural treasures around Copenhagen

The Glyptotek in Copenhagen

The Glyptotek in Copenhagen

5. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

 A fun cultural Copenhagen tourist attraction is the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek which is Copenhagen’s signature art museum. Named for the iconic Carlsberg benefactor, the museum is mostly a personal collection of Carl Jacobson who created the museum and donated it to the city. Even for non museum goers, this is a must see place because of the stunning exterior and interior details, including the spectacular views from the rooftop deck. The Glyptotek museum exhibits rotating shows along with their permanent collections of mostly ancient antiquities of mostly Egypt, Rome and Greece. There is also a collection of modern art with French Impressionist and Post Impressionist masterpieces, works by Rodin and a collection of paintings of the Danish Golden age. A popular place to visit during bad weather outside, the museum is one of the top places to visit at winter time in Copenhagen. The museum is a beautiful refuge to enjoy art and collections in a beautiful space away from the elements and changing conditions in the city.

A replica of a roman villa with antiquities at the Carlsberg Glyptotek

A replica of a roman villa with antiquities at the Carlsberg Glyptotek

 Once you enter the museum, you approach this airy and magnificently ornate greenhouse with gorgeous statues and tropical plants. It feels like you are being transported into a different world filled with imagination and antiquities that draw you into another world and time. It’s almost worth seeing this space and admiring it on its own without even having to see the incredible artwork and collections of the Glyptotek. But don’t stop there, the many galleries are also well designed and easy to walk through and enjoy the beautiful presentation and artwork.

To plan your visit or check out the latest exhibits at the museum, you can check out the Glyptotek website here.

Here’s a cool tour of the Glypotek below

Christiansborg Palace tower views of Copenhagen

Christiansborg Palace tower views of Copenhagen

6. Christiansborg Palace tower

Sight seeing Copenhagen from above gives you a fantastic vantage point of the city and all the Copenhagen attractions. One of the fun Copenhagen tourist attractions with the best views can be found from the top of the Christiansborg Palace tower. The tallest tower in Copenhagen which also happens to be a free attraction, is a must visit attraction to see magnificent views of the entire city and harbor area. The tower, owned by the Danish parliament was created by Parliament members for free public viewing to visitors and visitors to the city.  You can take an elevator ride up to the observation areas and the views from the Christiansborg tower offers a stunning 360 degree view of the entire city and outlying areas.

Tip: best times to visit to avoid the crowds are early when tower opens or even late in the afternoon for the twilight hour and evening views of the city. Also, there is a restaurant in the tower called the Tarnet for more refined and modern Danish cuisine.  For more information about the tower visit and hours, you can check out their website here.

**You can sign up for a guided tour of the Christianborg Palace here for more information and entry.

Christiansborg Palace at Slotsholmen, Copenhagen

Christiansborg Palace at Slotsholmen, Copenhagen

7. Christiansborg Palace

The main palace at Christiansborg is open for the public to view many of the public and administrative halls in the palace. The seat of imperial Denmark, the palace retains many of its splendid royal halls which the queen still uses for many state dinners and events. With the price of admission you can also visit the royal stables, the underground ruins of earlier medieval castles, the palace chapel and the court theater. Inside the palace are beautiful collections of porcelain, tapestries, artwork and statues, chandeliers and other richly decorated ornaments.

The palace is also a working government building housing all three branches of the Danish government including: the executive, legislative and judicial powers of the country. Since the early 15th century the palace has been the base of central administration and now the current day parliament of Denmark. It is the only government building in the world that houses all of its government branches within one impressive building.

For more information on tours and hours, you can visit the Christiansborg palace website here.

Slotsholmen in the old town of Copenhagen

Slotsholmen in the old town of Copenhagen

You can tour the palace and also take an elevator to the top of this palace below

8. Slotsholmen

The central core island in Copenhagen’s main harbor was formed into the city’s ruling power and eventually expanded to Christian Town and other outlying areas which eventually formed the city center. Recognized as the center of Denmark’s government, Slotsholmen has been the active ruling seat since the middle ages and into modern times. The historic island is filled with historical monuments and important architectural buildings including: Christiansborg Slot, Denmark’s parliament (Folketing), the royal residence (Christiansborg Palace), the Supreme Court, national archives and the prime minister’s office all one confined area.

You can easily spend days just visiting the many museums on the island.  This includes magnificent buildings that house the following: the Danish Jewish Museum, the royal stables at Christianborg Palace, the Theater Museum, ruins at Christianborg Palace, the Royal Arsenal Museum, Thorvaldsen Museum. For more information and a comprehensive list of  museums, hours and what’s happening, you can check out Visit Copenhagen’s Museum link here.

 For fun activities and tours in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

Enjoy the hip and fun neighborhoods around Copenhagen

Vesterbro and Meatpacking District in Copenhagen

Vesterbro and Meatpacking District in Copenhagen

 

9. Vesterbro and Meatpacking District

One of the cool and new Copenhagen’s sights to hang out in is the Meat packing district at Vesterbro. One of the fun and new hipster thing to do in Copenhagen is to visit the meatpacking district called Vesterbro which is located next to the main train station. The area is now considered Copenhagen’s ‘Red light district’ but with more yuppie appeal and bustling with hip cafes, clubs and the occasional strip show venue. The new hipster zone is a fun spot to visit the many design galleries and stores, interesting old architecture or just walking through and enjoying the street life. Of course, if your main interest is mostly the club scene and red-light appeal, then nighttime at Vesterbro is definitely the best time to explore the area. For a list of interesting places to visit and cool attractions, you can check some of the activities around Vesterbro here

Multi - purpose complex at Vesterbro, Copenhagen

Multi – purpose complex at Vesterbro, Copenhagen

Check out why Vesterbro is so cool below

10. Christiania

An unusual and fun Copenhagen sightseeing attraction is a visit to Christiania. Originally Copenhagen’s hippy hangout, Christiania is one of the most exciting and fun thing to do in Copenhagen. Originally the neighborhood was an abandoned military base founded by squatters and artists moved in and developed the area into a social experiment known as a ‘free town’, or basically a hippy commune.

The area has now evolved into a vibrant community with a gritty edge. There’s a lot of street art, galleries, cafes and night clubs to hang out and even buy weed or other soft drunks available for sale in many of these establishments.  There are also unusual museums, community centers and music venues to explore around the community. The alternate lifestyle and vibe of the area resonates with the younger, liberal and open attitudes of the community, so if you are looking for something different and more on Copenhagen’s cutting edge scene, you definitely need to check out Christiania.  For more information and safety guidelines  visiting the community, check out this website.

Also, I’m including a quick video tour of the area – video credit to Ultimate Copenhagen below

Nyhaven or the new harbor of Copenhagen

Nyhavn or the new harbor of Copenhagen

11. Nyhavn

One of the top sights in Copenhagen to visit and hang out in the many restaurants and bars is at Nyhavn. The new harbor of Copenhagen is the perfect place to end the day along the waterfront area which is filled with cafes, bars and the enjoying the beautiful canal. The colorful facades and canal make Nyhavn a postcard perfect venue all day to late at night. Taking a boat ride starting at Nyhavn is a popular way of seeing the waterfront and canal areas of Copenhagen’s busy waterfront and popular hangout spots in the city including the canals around Christian town.

There’s so much more to do in Copenhagen in summertime and visiting Nyhavn and hanging out at the bars, restaurants or even the docks is a fun pastime here to enjoy being outdoors in the waterfront district.

**Consider this easy one hour cruise through the harbor area and the major sites including: Amalienborg Castle, the Little Mermaid, Opera House, Christianshavn and Copenhagen’s canals.

Main canal at Nyhaven, Copenhagen

Sightseeing Copenhagen- Main canal at Nyhavn, Copenhagen

Nyhavn and Slotsholmen

Canal views of Nyhaven and Slotsholmen, central Copenhagen

Canal views of Nyhavn and Slotsholmen, central Copenhagen

Here’s a quick video tour exploring the area below

Views across to Christianshavn or Christiana town in Copenhagen

Views across to Christianshavn or Christiana town in Copenhagen

12. Christianshavn or Christiantown

The waterfront community of canals and old warehouse district of Copenhagen which has transformed into a gentrified and expensive housing community. A canal cruise is the preferred way to visit the canals and restored warehouses that have been converted to living and working buildings and enjoy the views from a water vantage point. Or you can take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood to soak in the slower pace and details of daily life around this vibrant area.

For accommodations in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

Here’s a quick look visiting Christianshavn below

Ørstedparken in central Copenhagen

Ørstedparken in central Copenhagen

13. Ørstedparken

One of the most popular public parks in Central Copenhagen is Orstedparken which is located along the old fortification ruins of the city. The moat is still left over with large ponds in the middle of the park with trails, flower gardens and grassy hills. Some of the hilly areas contain an old bastion and rampart with wonderful views to the surrounding areas and city center. During the summer time, the park  is filled with colorful flower gardens like the garden beds below. Its a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to have a nice picnic or just take a long afternoon nap. It’s a perfect respite from the crowded urban crawl around the historic center of the city.

For accommodations in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

 Annual flower beds at Orstedparken

Lounging amid the flower beds at Ørstedparken in central Copenhagen

Lounging amid the flower beds at Ørstedparken in central Copenhagen

Here’s a quick visit around Ostedsparken park below

Little Copenhagen in central historic area

Little Copenhagen in central historic area

14. Torvehallerne outdoor flea market

A cool new hangout spot and hipster place to visit in Copenhagen is right next door to the Torvehallerne and Orstedparken, is on the cutting edge, made with shipping containers repurposed into street food, beer stations and public entertainment venues all in one setting.  The area has an edgy vibe with cool DJs spinning, live bands and performances, dances and the weekend outdoor craft fares happening all around the park like setting.

If you are looking for a trendy and fun area to hang out with the locals, then go to Little Copenhagen from Thursday to Sunday evenings and enjoy all the entertainment and delicious street food. You’ll enjoy visiting this very local Copenhagen attraction on the weekends to see and live the vibe of this fun neighborhood in town.

For accommodations in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

Arts and crafts displays at Little Copenhagen

Arts and crafts displays at Little Copenhagen

15. Rosenborg Castle 

Set in the King’s garden in central Copenhagen, Rosenborg castle was built in the Dutch Renaissance style which was a predominant Danish style popular during this timeframe.  The tall and ornate brickwork and sandstone with tall towers capped in copper details. The royal palace originally the summer residence until the 1710 is now mostly used as a royal museum which features the royal treasures and crowns of the monarchy along with a rich collection of artwork, paintings, parade regalia and other fine collections. The royal chambers, assembly halls and administrative offices are open for the public to visit along with the public gardens around the palace.

For opening hours, tours and ticket prices for the Rosenborg Castle, you can visit their website here. Below is a video tour of Rosenborg castle – video credit courtesy of Rick Steves Europe.

Torvehallerne specialty food market, Copenhagen

Torvehallerne specialty food market, Copenhagen

 

16. Torvehallerne  

A food paradise and Copenhagan attraction for foodies that love local foods and specialty foods. Across the street from Little Copenhagen is Torvehallerne, an upscale food hall and specialty food court which caters to both local crowds and visitors. The market is housed in twin greenhouses with outdoor seating and shops sprinkled around the dining areas. It’s a very festive and color area with many food shops specializing in prepared foods, local meats, cheeses, breads and pastries, imported goods and everything delicious and foodie focused.  The best thing is to come hungry and just explore the stalls to see what appeals to you and you just may visit Torvehallerne a second or third time.

Torvehallerne in Copenhagen

Torvehallerne in Copenhagen

Let’s explore the delicious Torvehllerne below

Iris and water views at Copenhagen Botanical garden

Iris and water views at Copenhagen Botanical garden

 

17. Copenhagen Botanical garden

The Copenhagen botanical gardens are full of beautiful garden rooms, water features and lakes with sweeping lawns and pastoral views.  The garden also have unusual round Victorian glasshouses housing tropical and Mediterranean to desert botanical plants and species. As part of the Natural history museum, the botanical garden houses the largest collection of living plants and botanical species in Denmark. For a nice quiet and relaxing visit away from the busy urban areas of Copenhagen, the botanical garden is is a nice respite with well maintained garden rooms, glasshouses and open space to enjoy and worth a visit. If you want to be outdoors and exploring one of the beautiful outdoor places to visit in Copenhagen, then head out for a fun morning or afternoon walk around the botanical garden.

The gardens are free and open to the public and for more information and history about the gardens, you can visit their website here.

You can walk through these stunning gardens here for more inspiration

Flea market shopping at Nørrebro district, Copenhagen

Flea market shopping at Nørrebro district, Copenhagen

18. Nørrebro district

For those interested in Danish design, antiques and galleries, then the Norrebro district and the right place to explore the many shops that specialize in antiquities, imported and Danish works. The area off Ravnsborggade street has many quirky, cool shops and antique stores worth visiting and hopefully finding some treasures to take home.  The area also has a very cool vibe with trendy stores, cafes, retro shops and design studios and weekends include an antique market that’s fun to dig through for something interesting or a souvenir. There are flea markets that happen on the streets around the Norrebro district, check out the details to visiting these outdoor markets here for time frames.

To check out some of the unique store, click on Visit Copenhagen’s website here.

For accommodations in this district check out these discounts and reviews here for the latest updates and prices.

A cool design shop at Nørrebro district, Copenhagen

A cool design shop at Nørrebro district, Copenhagen

Check these cool place to explore around Norrebro district below

19. National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is a free museum worth visiting in Copenhagen. It houses the entire range of important ancient Danish history, events, artifacts and artwork in the 3 floors of galleries and exhibit halls. Outside of Danish cultural exhibits and history, the National Museum of Denmark also contains exhibits and national interests in areas: of natural sciences, archaeology, ethnology, conservation, communication and religion.  It terms of historical value, the museum collections represent 14,000 years of Danish history ranging from the ice age and Viking time frame to the middle ages and on to modern Danish economy, contemporary lifestyle and culture.

**You can sign up for a guided tour of the National Museum of Denmark here for more information and entry.

Check out this tour of this fantastic museum below

To plan your visit and find out more about current exhibits, you can visit the National Museum website here

Peblinge Lake in central Copenhagen

Best places to visit in Copenhagen- Peblinge Lake in central Copenhagen

20. Peblinge Lake

Another popular green belt and lake area in central Copenhagen, Peblinge lake is a series of three rectangular lakes that formed originally from a stream and converted into dammed lakes as fortification for the historic central district in the early 1700s.  Now the lakes and green belts are used for recreational purposes and offer beautiful skyline views on the city center.

 Swans at Peblinge lake looking for handouts

Peblinge Lake and swans in central Copenhagen

What to visit in Copenhagen- Peblinge Lake and swans in central Copenhagen

Here’s a fun visit to “The Lakes” in Copenhagen below

Where and what to eat in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is definitely an expensive foodie city with gorgeous food specialty markets like Torvehallerne market, fantastic local food choices and fantastic fine dining experiences around the city. Here are some recommended foods and places to eat around this wonderful city of amazing food choices.

Copenhagen offers a delightful array of local and street food options that reflect the city’s diverse culinary scene. When visiting Copenhagen, be sure to try these delicious local treats:

Smørrebrød: A traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, smørrebrød consists of rye bread topped with various ingredients such as herring, roast beef, liver pâté, shrimp, and more. It’s a flavorful and visually appealing dish that you can find in many cafes and delis across the city.

Pølsevogn (Hot Dog Stands): Hot dogs are a popular street food in Copenhagen. Look out for pølsevogn (hot dog stands) that serve delicious sausages with a variety of toppings, including remoulade (a creamy sauce), pickles, crispy onions, and mustard.

Frikadeller: These Danish meatballs are often made with a combination of pork and veal, seasoned with herbs and spices. Frikadeller are typically served with potatoes and gravy, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Stegt Flæsk med Persillesovs: This traditional Danish dish consists of crispy fried pork belly served with a parsley sauce and boiled potatoes. It’s a beloved comfort food in Denmark and a must-try for pork lovers.

Æbleskiver: These delightful round pancake-like pastries are a popular Danish treat, especially during the Christmas season. They are served with powdered sugar and often accompanied by jam for dipping.

Kanelsnegle (Cinnamon Snails): Kanelsnegle are delicious cinnamon rolls with a soft and flaky texture. You can find them in bakeries and cafes throughout Copenhagen.

Gammeldags is (Old-fashioned ice cream): Copenhagen boasts some excellent ice cream parlors offering traditional Danish ice cream flavors. Indulge in flavors like flødebolle (chocolate-covered marshmallow), lakrids (licorice), or friskost (a fresh cheese flavor).

Danish Pastries (Wienerbrød): Copenhagen is famous for its scrumptious Danish pastries. Try classics like the cinnamon-filled snegl or the fruit-filled spandauer for a delightful sweet treat.

Grød: If you’re a fan of porridge or oatmeal, head to one of Copenhagen’s Grød cafés. They offer a variety of sweet and savory porridge dishes, using different grains and toppings for a wholesome and delicious meal.

While exploring Copenhagen, keep an eye out for food markets like Torvehallerne and Reffen Street Food Market, which offer a diverse selection of local and international street food. These markets are great places to sample various dishes and enjoy the vibrant food scene of the city.

Take a food tour introduction to Danish cuisine

With so many food choices to choose from a food tour would be an ideal experience to try some of the local specialties in the city and region. You’ll love this food tour experience which will show you what Danish cuisine is all about by walking and eating your way through the city. From specialty delicatessens, open face smorrebrod to artisanal cheeses, this tour will give you an excellent overview of Danish food at its best.

Enjoy these street foods of Copenhagen

Here’s a video on what types of foods to eat in Copenhagen

Experience Noma – the best restaurant nominated 4 times as the New Nordic Cuisine in the World

More tips on Visiting Copenhagen city

Copenhagen is a compact city and very walkable but if you get tired, its easy to catch public transportation, metro or even Uber. The city is very bike friendly and you can easily rent a bike share to get around the city and see more outlying spots around the city.

If you’re into all the busy activity shopping and dining then the middle of town is an extensive pedestrian area with tons of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues open day and night.

We didn’t mention the Little Mermaid as a tourist attraction, but please do if you want to take a picture of this iconic mermaid.

If you are into iconic Copenhagen street food think about the Danish hot dog, open face sandwiches, Danish pastry and of course Danish meatballs with onions, potatoes and gravy.

Over 86 percent of the Danish population speaks English so go ahead and ask for directions or any help.

Danish street ware is very smart but practical, dress in layers for changing weather patterns throughout your stay and day tripping.

Danish currency is the Krone and the plural term is kroner

Other cool attractions and activities in Copenhagen

If you are looking for more fun things to do and other comprehensive tours around the city, check out these fun and unique tours or activities worth doing in the city.

City bus and boat Hop on Hop off for 48 hours – easy access to the city’s main attractions and an added feature to explore the city’s landmarks on the water.

Copenhagen city card – free entrance to over 73 museums and attractions and local transportation around the city. Also discounts to restaurants, stores and other tourist activities.

A Copenhagen food tour – a tour around the city’s historic center and stops at some of the traditional food venues and newer establishments to taste some of the best foods of the city.

Copenhagen bike tour – Explore the city like a local and through their favorite means of transportation – by bicycle and touring popular attractions all around the city.

Check out all these other fun excursions and tours around Copenhagen here offering unique experiences around the city.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Since this is a walking city it is so easy to be based anywhere close to the historic center. Here are some unique and beautiful properties to consider for your stay in Copenhagen. Or you can consider some of the best Airbnb stays in Copenhagen as an alternative here.

Radisson Blue Royal Hotel Copenhagen – a signature Radisson property in a central location, modern and comfortable rooms with excellent breakfast service

Skt. Petri – Centrally located this modern style hotel has comfortable and clean rooms recently renovated and close to the metro system. Good breakfast service and efficient front desk service.

First Hotel Mayfair – only a three minute walk to the main train station, this classic and elegant hotel with inviting bedroom décor and comfortable rooms. Excellent buffet breakfast and customer service.

Avenue Hotel Copenhagen – Good location and value, classic hotel with modern interiors and comfortable rooms with soft beds. Extensive breakfast buffet and a wide range of services and tours offered by the front desk.

For more reviews and hotel prices check these hotels from Trip Advisor here for more details.

Consider these cool and fun Copenhagen guided tours

If you’re heading to Copenhagen, opting for a guided tour can greatly enhance your experience. A knowledgeable guide can help you uncover lesser-known attractions and offer captivating stories and insights about the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture. With a wide range of tours to choose from, you can select one that caters to your specific interests, whether it’s exploring the charming historic district, indulging in the city’s culinary scene, or immersing yourself in its bustling nightlife. Guided tours can also take care of practicalities like transportation and entrance fees, freeing you up to relax and fully enjoy the excursion. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, a guided tour is an ideal way to elevate your Copenhagen experience and create lasting memories.

Bike tour around Copenhagen

Explore Bike crazy Copenhagen by bike on this three hour tour passing popular attractions like The Little Mermaid, Christiana, Rosenborg Castle, the cool neighborhoods of the city and a stop at stop at Torvehallerne, a sleek food hall, for a snack or coffee.

Check out the details of this tour here for more prices and booking information

Møns klint and Forest tower – A day tour from Copenhagen

Explore this scenic area and nature experience at the Møns Klint chalk cliffs have been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Forest Tower Camp Adventure. Dating back 70,000 years, you’ll get to explore this stunning area and climb one of Denmark’s highest points on this guided tour.

Check out the details of this tour here for more prices and booking information

Two Hour Segway Tour of Copenhagen

Experience visiting the city on this two hour Segway tour and seeing the main highlights including Nyhaven, Little Mermaid, harbor area, Royal Palace, Danish Parliament and many more sites on this fun tour.

Check out the details of this tour here for more prices and booking information.

Check out these other things to do in Copenhagen

Free things to do in Copenhagen

A visit to the Glyptotek Museum in Copenhagen

A first impression of Copenhagen

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Conclusion to 20 top attractions in Copenhagen 

To sum up, Copenhagen is a city that caters to every traveler’s desires. With its incredible history, breathtaking architecture, lively culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, this enchanting destination is guaranteed to leave an indelible mark on anyone who visits. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Nyhavn, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, or discovering the hidden gems of the historic central district, Copenhagen offers an array of experiences that are truly unforgettable. It’s no wonder why Copenhagen consistently ranks among the most livable cities in the world. So why not start planning your trip today and experience the magic of this captivating city for yourself? We assure you that you won’t be disappointed!

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