Things to do in Copenhagen

Planning a trip to Copenhagen? Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, Denmark's capital is full of classic sights and coastal charm. Here are 7 great things to do in Copenhagen to make your stay extra special.

Noerrebro

Step into magic at Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the world and a charming oasis right in the center of the city. Beyond the rides, you can walk through beautifully lit gardens, admire the historic architecture, or join locals for evening concerts. 

Explore the city by bike

Copenhagen is famous for its cycling culture, and getting around on two wheels is the easiest way to see the city. You can easily rent a bike, or borrow one directly at hotels like Scandic Palace Hotel in the city center. Hop on and join the local flow on dedicated cycle paths to move between neighborhoods like Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and the harbor.

Cruise the canals and harbor

Seeing Copenhagen from the water is one of the best ways to experience the city. You can hop on a traditional canal boat tour departing right near the famous townhouses and hotels near Nyhavn, or rent a boat with GoBoat to explore the cozy canals at your own pace. Their solar-powered picnic boats come with a center table, making it easy to bring your own food or order a picnic in advance to share with family and friends.
GoBoat Copenhagen

Stroll along the shopping streets of Strøget

Danish design is known all around the world for simplicity and comfort. Take a stroll along Strøget, the central pedestrian street, to browse classic porcelain, modern furniture, lamps, and local fashion brands.

  • Royal Copenhagen: Beautiful and exclusive hand-painted porcelain. The flagship store is on the main shopping street Strøget in the heart of Copenhagen.
  • Illums Bolighus: Flagship destination for Scandinavian design. Browse furniture, lighting, glassware, and home accessories across several floors.
  • Local fashion: Explore brands like Mads Nørgaard, Baum und Pferdgarten, Munthe, and Malene Birger.
If you want to stay within easy walking distance of the shopping streets of Strøget, Scandic Copenhagen is located just a short walk away.

Experience Freetown Christiania

As one of Copenhagen's most visited spots, drawing around half a million people every year, Freetown Christiania is a unique spot to experience local Copenhagen culture. It's a car-free neighborhood filled with handmade eco-homes, vibrant street art, small artisan shops, and open-air venues. Whether you go to walk along the water or enjoy live music on a warm afternoon, it's a neighborhood unlike anywhere else in the city.

Discover the historic Carlsberg City District

Copenhagen is home to Carlsberg beer, which was brewed here from 1847 until 2008. Today, the historic brewery grounds have turned into a lively meeting spot filled with events, venues, and popular Friday pop-up bars during the summer.

Highlights in the district include:

  • Tours & beer tastings: Explore the brewery grounds and sample local brews.
  • Horse carriage rides: Take a nostalgic tour around the area.
  • Carlsberg Garden: Walk through a peaceful green oasis.
Staying nearby at Scandic Sydhavnen puts all of it right on your doorstep.
Carlsberg Copenhagen

Take a dip at Copenhagen's harbor baths

Copenhagen's clean harbor waters make open-air swimming a favorite local activity. Right in the city center, Islands Brygge offers five pools, diving towers, and green lawns just a short bike ride from Scandic Webers. You can also head to Havnebadet Fisketorvet in Vesterbro for dedicated swimming, diving, and kids' pools, or travel 15–20 minutes outside the center to The Coral Bath and Kastrup Sea Bath for striking modern wooden architecture and diving platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What other classic attractions should I see in Copenhagen?

    Beyond the highlights in this guide, top classic attractions include Rosenborg Castle, Kongens Nytorv, Amalienborg Palace, and The Little Mermaid statue.

  • What is the best way to get around Copenhagen?

    Renting a bike is the local way to explore the city. Alternatively, the metro, buses, and harbor ferries offer fast transport across all neighborhoods.

  • When is the best time to visit Copenhagen?

    May to August offers warm weather, long days, and outdoor life along the harbor. However, November and December are also popular for cozy Christmas markets.