Introduction to Copenhagen
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is often ranked among the most bike-friendly cities in the world. With its mix of historic landmarks, innovative design, cozy cafés, and vibrant neighborhoods, the city has something for every type of traveler. Whether you are visiting Copenhagen for a weekend or staying longer, you will find countless attractions, hidden gems, and unique experiences waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 20 things to do in Copenhagen, from world-famous sights like Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue to more off-the-beaten-path places such as the Carlsberg Brewery and Islands Brygge.
Planning Your Trip to Copenhagen
Best time to visit: Spring and summer are perfect for exploring by bike or boat tour, thanks to long daylight hours and mild weather. Winter, although cold, offers magical Christmas markets, light displays at Tivoli Gardens, and a cozy atmosphere known as hygge.
How to get around: Public transport is reliable, but most tourists prefer renting bikes or using Donkey Republic, a popular bike-sharing service.
Where to stay: From boutique hotels in the city center to budget-friendly hostels, accommodation is plentiful. Staying near Copenhagen Central Station ensures walking distance to many main attractions.
Must-See Attractions
1. Tivoli Gardens
One of Copenhagen’s most famous sights, Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park with a lively atmosphere, seasonal events, and beautiful gardens. It’s perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to experience a mix of fun rides, concerts, and delicious food stalls. Opened in 1843, it is one of the world's oldest operating amusement parks and famously inspired Walt Disney.
2. The Little Mermaid Statue
No trip is complete without visiting the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale. While the statue itself is small, the surrounding Langelinie promenade is ideal for a few hours of walking. The bronze statue, placed in 1913, often draws crowds, making an early morning visit ideal for the perfect photo opportunity.
3. Amalienborg Palace and Changing of the Guard
Home of the Danish royal family, Amalienborg Palace is a highlight for history lovers. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place daily at noon. The palace consists of four identical classical buildings surrounding a beautiful octagonal courtyard, offering a glimpse into Denmark’s deep royal traditions.
4. Rosenborg Castle and the King’s Garden
This Renaissance castle houses the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia. The surrounding King’s Garden is a peaceful escape and one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
5. Christiansborg Palace
Located in the city centre, Christiansborg Palace is where the Danish Parliament and Prime Minister’s Office are located. Guided tours allow visitors to explore royal reception rooms, the ruins under the palace, and even climb the tower for panoramic views.
Museums and Galleries
6. National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum is one of Copenhagen’s main tourist attractions, showcasing everything from Viking history to modern culture with interactive exhibits. Its extensive collection of Viking artifacts and the Egtved Girl's burial find provide fascinating insights into Denmark's ancient past.
7. National Gallery of Denmark (SMK)
Art lovers should visit the National Gallery,featuring works by Rembrandt, Mantegna, and major Danish artists. The museum is home to the world's most comprehensive collection of Danish Golden Age art, beautifully housed in a building that blends historical and modern architecture.
8. Design Museum Denmark
Denmark is world-famous for design, and the Design Museum highlights furniture, architecture, and brands like HAY and Arne Jacobsen. The museum offers a deep dive into functionalism, showcasing how Danish design principles emphasize simplicity, functionality, and elegance.
9. Copenhagen Contemporary
For modern and experimental art, Copenhagen Contemporary is a must-see. Located in a former industrial space, it features dynamic exhibitions and installations. Its massive former welding hall allows the museum to host large-scale, thought-provoking installations that engage visitors physically and visually.
Hidden Gems and Peaceful Escapes
10. The Botanical Garden
A short walk from Nørreport Station, the Botanical Garden is home to thousands of plant species and a spectacular glasshouse. The historic glasshouse, built in 1874, is particularly famous for its winding staircase and the tropical and rare plants housed within its beautiful iron framework.
11. Marble Church (Frederik’s Church)
With its massive green dome, the Marble Church is one of the city’s architectural masterpieces. Entry is free, and it’s located near Amalienborg. Modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, its impressive dome is one of the largest in Scandinavia, dominating the skyline of the Frederiksstaden district.
12. Islands Brygge
During summer, Islands Brygge becomes a lively swimming and picnic spot. Locals gather by the water, making it a great place to experience authentic Copenhagen. This waterfront area is famous for the city's first harbor bath (Havnebadet), which provides clean, safe swimming right in the heart of the city.
13. Carlsberg Brewery
Beer lovers should not miss the Carlsberg Brewery, where you can learn about Danish brewing traditions and taste fresh craft beer. While the historic brewery site offers a great museum experience, don't forget to visit the unique stable complex where the famous Carlsberg horses are housed.
14. Christiania
The alternative neighborhood of Freetown Christianiais unlike anywhere else in Europe, with street art, cafés, and a unique community spirit. As a self-proclaimed autonomous Freetown, it operates under its own rules; visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid photography in certain areas, particularly Pusher Street.
Food and Drink Experiences
15. Reffen Street Food Market
For international cuisine and local favorites, Reffen offers food stalls, craft beer stands, and live music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with views of the harbor. Located on the Refshaleøen peninsula, Reffen is known for its strong focus on sustainability, aiming to reduce food waste and promote organic produce.
16. Torvehallerne Market
Located near Nørreport, Torvehallerne is an indoor food market selling everything from Danish pastries to gourmet street food. This glass-covered market is a foodie paradise, allowing you to sample high-quality Danish seafood, cheeses, and world-class coffee all under one roof.
17. Fine Dining and Nordic Cuisine
Copenhagen is home to world-class restaurants like Barr and Vækst, offering innovative takes on Nordic dishes. If you want something truly memorable, book ahead for a table at Noma or Geranium.
Activities and Tours
18. Canal Tour and Boat Rental
A canal cruise is one of the best ways to see Copenhagen. You can take a guided boat tour or rent your own boat for a more personal experience. Tours typically highlight the colorful harbor houses of Nyhavn, the Opera House, and the Black Diamond Library, offering a unique perspective of the city's architecture.
19. Cycling the City
Known as one of the most bike-friendly cities, cycling in Copenhagen is a must. Rent a bike from Donkey Republic and explore neighborhoods like Vesterbro and Østerbro at your own pace.
20. Day Trips from Copenhagen
Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød: a stunning Renaissance palace surrounded by lakes and gardens.
Dragør: a small fishing village with colorful houses and a peaceful atmosphere.
Malmö, Sweden: just a short train ride across the Øresund Bridge.
Stay Connected in Copenhagen with Firsty
Exploring Copenhagen is much easier when you stay online throughout your trip. From checking Google Maps to navigate narrow streets in the city center, booking tickets for Tivoli Gardens, or uploading photos from Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid statue, reliable internet makes your trip smoother.
Public Wi-Fi in Copenhagen exists in cafés, hotels, and some public areas, but it’s often slow or requires registration. Roaming with your local provider can quickly become expensive, especially if you plan to share photos or use navigation apps often.
With Firsty eSIM, you can stay connected across Copenhagen and the rest of Europe without worrying about roaming charges or SIM card shops. Installation takes just a few minutes, and you can start browsing as soon as you land.
Firsty offers flexible plans for every type of traveler:
Firsty Free: Stay online at basic speed by watching ads, perfect for messaging and checking opening times.
Comfort+ (€1/day): Enjoy high-speed browsing, navigation, and social media while exploring attractions like Rosenborg Castle and the Botanical Garden.
First Class (€2/day): Unlock premium high-speed data for video streaming, hotspot usage, and uploading travel content instantly.
By using Firsty in Copenhagen, you’ll enjoy seamless connectivity from Tivoli Gardens to the trendy streets of Vesterbro. It’s the simplest way to stay connected and enjoy your trip without interruptions.
👉 Learn more about how Firsty works in Europe and start your journey connected.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Copenhagen offers something for every taste:
Opera House: elegant performances in a world-class venue.
Vega Club: known for live music and intimate concerts.
Copenhagen Jazzhouse: perfect for jazz lovers.
Shopping in Copenhagen
Strøget: one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, filled with international brands and boutique shops.
Boutique hotels and design stores: perfect for window shopping and exploring Danish design.
Copenhagen bucket list souvenirs: wooden toys, glass ornaments, and handmade crafts.
Safety, Budget, and Practical Tips
Budgeting: Copenhagen can be expensive, but you can save money by staying in hostels, eating at street food markets, and using public transport.
Weather: Be prepared for cold weather in winter, but enjoy cozy cafés and Christmas markets.
Safety: The city is very safe, though pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas.
Google Maps and walking: Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore without stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Copenhagen
Q: Is Copenhagen expensive to visit in 2025?
A: Yes, Copenhagen is generally considered one of Europe’s more expensive capital cities. However, you can manage your budget by choosing budget-friendly accommodations, relying on street food markets like Reffen for meals, and enjoying the many free attractions such as the Botanical Garden and the Marble Church. Cycling is also a cheap way to explore the city.
Q: How many days are needed to see the main attractions in Copenhagen?
A: To comfortably cover the top 20 things to do in Copenhagen, including Tivoli Gardens, the main palaces, and a day trip, we recommend planning for 3 to 4 full days. This gives you enough time to enjoy the hygge atmosphere without rushing between sights.
Q: Is Copenhagen a safe city for tourists?
A: Absolutely. Copenhagen consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. While you should always be mindful of your belongings in crowded tourist areas like Strøget and Tivoli Gardens, you can generally feel very secure walking and cycling around the city, even at night.
Conclusion
Copenhagen is a fantastic city that blends history, culture, design, and modern attractions. From world-famous sights like Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue to hidden gems like the Botanical Garden and Islands Brygge, there is always something new to explore.
Whether you’re staying for a few hours on a layover or several days on a perfect trip, Copenhagen offers endless experiences. With bike-friendly streets, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere, it’s no wonder that the Danish capital is one of Europe’s most popular destinations.
If you’re planning to extend your trip, consider exploring some of the best Eurail routes in Europe for a seamless journey across multiple countries. And if your favourite season is fall, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the best fall festivals of 2025, perfect for food, music, and family fun across Europe.
