18 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen

Gepubliceerd op 5 sep 2026 · 10 min lezen · 18 dingen om te doen

Copenhagen is a seamless blend of historic charm, Nordic design, and modern maritime culture, making it one of Scandinavia's most rewarding capital cities. Whether you are adding Denmark to a wider European journey alongside destinations like Andorra, Albania, or the Åland Islands, or visiting on a dedicated city break, this guide highlights the essential sights. Use this curated list to balance famous historic landmarks with vibrant local neighbourhoods, royal castles, and culinary hubs.

1. 1. Nyhavn Harbour

   Nyhavn is Copenhagen's iconic 17th-century waterfront canal lined with brightly painted townhouses, historic wooden ships, and lively outdoor cafes. Visitors can stroll along the cobbled quayside, admire the architecture once home to Hans Christian Andersen, or stop for traditional Danish open sandwiches. It serves as both a historic landmark and the main departure point for city canal tours.

   Waarom hierheen: It is the classic Copenhagen postcard view and an ideal spot to absorb the city's maritime atmosphere.

   Tip: Visit early in the morning to capture photos without the crowds, or come at dusk when the restaurant lanterns light up the water.

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2. 2. Tivoli Gardens

   Opened in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the world, located right in the heart of Copenhagen. The park features a nostalgic mix of wooden roller coasters, lush landscaped gardens, historic pavilions, and evening illumination shows. It offers a fairytale atmosphere that appeals equally to thrill-seekers, families, and evening diners.

   Waarom hierheen: It offers a charming blend of historic heritage, botanical gardens, and entertainment suitable for all ages.

   Tip: Buy your admission ticket online in advance to skip the main entrance lines, especially during seasonal Halloween and Christmas openings.

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3. 3. The Little Mermaid Statue

   Perched on a rock at Langelinie pier, this small bronze statue created by Edvard Eriksen in 1913 pays homage to Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairytale. Walking along the waterfront promenade to reach the statue takes you past historic harbour fortifications and scenic parkland. While modest in size, it remains one of Denmark's most recognisable national symbols.

   Waarom hierheen: It is an essential quick stop for first-time visitors seeking to see Copenhagen's most famous literary tribute.

   Tip: Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent Kastellet fortress to make the most of the trip north of the city centre.

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4. 4. Rosenborg Castle and the King's Garden

   Built in the early 17th century by King Christian IV, Rosenborg Castle is a striking Dutch Renaissance palace set within Copenhagen's oldest royal park. Inside, visitors can explore well-preserved royal chambers, historical portraits, and the glittering Danish Crown Jewels housed in the basement treasury. Surrounding the castle, the King's Garden is a popular green space where locals relax among rose beds and shady avenues.

   Waarom hierheen: It houses centuries of royal history and the Crown Jewels inside a stunningly preserved Renaissance castle.

   Tip: Book a timed entry ticket online for the castle interior, then spend time enjoying a picnic in the surrounding gardens.

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5. 5. Christiansborg Palace

   Located on the islet of Slotsholmen, Christiansborg Palace is the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court. Parts of the palace are still used by the Royal Family for official receptions and functions. Visitors can tour the opulent Royal Reception Rooms, the Great Hall with its famous modern tapestries, the historic Royal Stables, and the subterranean ruins of earlier castles.

   Waarom hierheen: It offers a comprehensive look at both Denmark's royal heritage and its modern political heart.

   Tip: Access to the palace tower is free and provides one of the highest panoramic viewpoints over Copenhagen's rooftops.

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6. 6. Amalienborg Palace

   Amalienborg is the winter residence of the Danish Royal Family, consisting of four identical classical palace facades surrounding an octagonal courtyard. At the centre stands an equestrian statue of King Frederick V, facing the monumental Frederik's Church across the road. Visitors can watch the Royal Guard daily changing of the guard ceremony and visit the Amalienborg Museum inside Christian VIII's Palace.

   Waarom hierheen: It provides a rare chance to experience an active royal residence and witness traditional military pageantry.

   Tip: Time your arrival for midday to catch the daily changing of the guard ceremony in the main square.

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7. 7. The Round Tower (Rundetårn)

   Constructed in the 17th century as an astronomical observatory, the Round Tower is famous for its unique spiral ramp rather than stairs. The smooth, paved incline winds seven and a half times around the hollow core, leading up to an observation platform that overlooks the historic Latin Quarter. Halfway up, the spacious Library Hall hosts rotating art and history exhibitions.

   Waarom hierheen: It provides a gentle climb and rewarding panoramic views across the tiled roofs of central Copenhagen.

   Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the cobbled spiral incline can feel steep toward the top.

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8. 8. Torvehallerne Food Market

   Located near Nørreport Station, Torvehallerne consists of two glass marketplace halls housing over 80 food stalls. Visitors can sample high-quality Danish culinary specialties, including fresh smørrebrød (open-faced rye bread sandwiches), gourmet cheeses, fresh seafood, pastries, and artisan coffee. It is a vibrant gathering place for both locals buying groceries and travellers seeking a relaxed lunch.

   Waarom hierheen: It is the best central spot to sample authentic Danish gastronomy and artisanal food products under one roof.

   Tip: Arrive slightly before the main lunchtime rush to secure seating at the popular smørrebrød counters.

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9. 9. Reffen Street Food Market

   Situated in the industrial Refshaleøen district, Reffen is a vast outdoor street food market built from repurposed shipping containers. It features dozens of independent food vendors serving global cuisines alongside craft beer bars and local design workshops. Located right along the harbourfront, it offers a relaxed, creative atmosphere with deckchairs and outdoor fire pits.

   Waarom hierheen: It offers a lively waterfront dining experience showcasing global street food and Copenhagen's urban culture.

   Tip: Take the harbour bus ferry directly to Refshaleøen for a scenic and convenient journey across the water.

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10. 10. Copenhagen Canal Cruise

    A guided boat tour through Copenhagen's harbour and canals provides a fresh perspective on the city's architecture and maritime history. Cruises navigate past major landmarks such as the Opera House, the Black Diamond library, Christianshavn's historic quays, and the Little Mermaid. Guided commentary highlights how historic warehouses now sit alongside modern sustainable urban planning.

    Waarom hierheen: It is an efficient and restful way to orient yourself and see key sights from the water.

    Tip: Opt for a tour departing from Ved Stranden or Nyhavn, and pick an open-top boat on clear days.

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11. 11. Freetown Christiania

    Established in 1971 in an abandoned military barracks in Christianshavn, Christiania is an autonomous, self-governing commune known for its alternative lifestyle. Visitors can walk along leafy canal paths, view colourful murals, explore hand-built eco-houses, and visit local craft workshops and cafes. It offers a stark cultural contrast to the rest of the polished capital.

    Waarom hierheen: It provides a fascinating look into a unique social experiment and artistic community within the city.

    Tip: Respect local community rules, particularly regarding photography restrictions around Pusher Street.

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12. 12. Designmuseum Denmark

    Housed in a former 18th-century hospital building, Designmuseum Denmark celebrates Scandinavian decorative art, crafts, and industrial design. The collection covers legendary Danish furniture designers like Arne Jacobsen and Hans Wegner, alongside fashion, ceramics, and graphic arts. Interactive displays examine the functionalist philosophy that made Danish design famous worldwide.

    Waarom hierheen: It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Nordic interior design, modern aesthetics, and craft heritage.

    Tip: Allow extra time to enjoy the tranquil inner courtyard garden and museum café after visiting the galleries.

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13. 13. Vesterbro and the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen)

    Once a working-class industrial area, Vesterbro is now one of Copenhagen's trendiest neighbourhoods, centred around the Meatpacking District. White tiled industrial buildings have been converted into modern art galleries, craft breweries, seafood restaurants, and nightlife venues. By day it is a relaxed spot for coffee and design shops, transforming into a bustling nightlife hub after dark.

    Waarom hierheen: It showcases Copenhagen's contemporary urban regeneration, dining culture, and evening nightlife.

    Tip: Visit on a weekend evening to experience the vibrant atmosphere when the outdoor dining plazas fill up.

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14. 14. National Museum of Denmark

    Situated near Christiansborg Palace, the National Museum is Denmark's primary cultural history museum, spanning prehistoric times to the modern era. Highlights include Viking runestones and weapons, the Bronze Age Sun Chariot, medieval church artifacts, and an impressive collection of ethnography. The museum also features a dedicated Children's Museum with hands-on historical exhibits.

    Waarom hierheen: It offers the most complete overview of Danish history, Viking heritage, and Scandinavian culture.

    Tip: Focus on the Viking section and the Sun Chariot display if you are short on time.

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15. 15. Botanical Garden and Palm House

    Spanning ten hectares in central Copenhagen, the Botanical Garden is home to thousands of plant species, peaceful walking paths, and historic glasshouses. The star attraction is the Victorian-era Palm House, built in 1874, which features a tropical climate and a spiral staircase leading to a canopy walk. It provides a warm, verdant escape in any season.

    Waarom hierheen: It offers a tranquil green sanctuary with impressive historic glasshouse architecture.

    Tip: The outdoor botanical garden grounds are free to enter, though the Palm House requires an admission ticket.

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16. 16. CopenHill

    CopenHill is an innovative waste-to-energy plant topped with an artificial dry ski slope, hiking trails, and a rooftop cafe. Designed by architect Bjarke Ingels, the building combines urban utility with outdoor recreation, allowing visitors to ski, trek, or take in views across Copenhagen and the Øresund strait. It stands as a symbol of Denmark's commitment to sustainable design.

    Waarom hierheen: It showcases cutting-edge architecture and offers unique outdoor activities with views over the city harbour.

    Tip: Even if you do not plan to ski, you can walk or take the elevator up to the rooftop viewing platform for free.

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17. 17. Strøget Shopping Street

    Strøget is one of Europe's longest pedestrian streets, connecting City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv. The car-free thoroughfare is lined with international flagship stores, Danish fashion boutiques, historic department stores, and street performers. Walking its length takes you through the heart of the city's historic shopping district.

    Waarom hierheen: It is a central pedestrian hub for shopping, people-watching, and strolling between major plazas.

    Tip: Explore the smaller side streets off Strøget for independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and quieter courtyards.

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18. 18. Glyptoteket (Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek)

    Founded by brewer Carl Jacobsen, Glyptoteket is an art museum renowned for its collection of ancient Mediterranean sculptures and French Impressionist paintings. The museum's centerpiece is a lush glass-domed Winter Garden filled with palm trees and sculptures, connecting the historic exhibition wings. The galleries feature works by Rodin, Monet, Degas, and van Gogh.

    Waarom hierheen: It combines classical antiquity and fine art inside a stunning architectural building with a tropical conservatory.

    Tip: Check museum schedules ahead of time, as admission is occasionally discounted on designated weekdays.

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