Copenhagen – Denmark’s capital of cool – is where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic charm, and bicycles outnumber cars. Whether you’re sipping a craft coffee by the canal or exploring castles that look like they jumped out of a fairytale, Copenhagen delivers a beautiful mix of old and new.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Copenhagen for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. From must-see sights to local-only experiences, this post will help you plan your perfect itinerary.
1. Visit Nyhavn: Copenhagen’s Most Iconic Harbor
If Copenhagen had a postcard, it’d be Nyhavn. With its colorful 17th-century townhouses, bobbing boats, and bustling cafés, Nyhavn is the city’s most Instagrammed spot. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
What to do:
Snap photos by the harbor
Grab a Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) at Nyhavns Færgekro
Take a canal tour from here (highly recommended!)
Tip: Go early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the biggest crowds.
2. Explore Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli isn’t just an amusement park – it’s a Copenhagen institution. Opened in 1843, it inspired Walt Disney himself. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Highlights:
Classic wooden roller coasters
Evening light shows
Live music & performances
Magical Christmas markets (if visiting in winter)
Don’t Miss: Try a Danish hot dog and take a ride on the 100-year-old wooden coaster, Rutschebanen.
3. Climb the Tower at Church of Our Saviour
Feel like earning your panoramic view? Climb the 400 steps of this baroque beauty in Christianshavn for one of the best views in Copenhagen. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
What makes it special: The last 150 steps spiral around the outside of the spire. Not for the faint of heart—but 100% worth it.
4. Discover Freetown Christiania
Christiania is Copenhagen’s alternative neighborhood: part hippie commune, part street art museum, part social experiment. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Things to see:
Colorful murals and buildings
Handmade houses and green spaces
Organic cafés and music venues
Important Note: Photography is restricted in parts of Christiania, especially on Pusher Street. Be respectful of local rules.
5. Explore Rosenborg Castle & the Crown Jewels
Step into royal Denmark at Rosenborg Castle, nestled in the King’s Garden. This Renaissance-era castle is packed with royal history and glittering treasures. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Highlights:
The Danish Crown Jewels
Christian IV’s private chambers
Beautiful manicured gardens outside
Opening Hours: Rosenborg Castle and the Crown Jewels are generally open to the public from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months.
6. Take a Stroll in The Latin Quarter
This is Copenhagen’s bohemian heart — filled with indie boutiques, vinyl shops, bookstores, and budget-friendly bites. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
What to do:
Have brunch at Paludan Book Café
Shop for unique souvenirs
Walk the cobbled streets between Larsbjørnsstræde & Studiestræde
7. Marvel at The Little Mermaid Statue
Sure, it’s small. But no trip to Copenhagen is complete without seeing this tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s iconic fairy tale. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the tour buses. Combine it with a coastal walk toward Kastellet fortress.
8. Rent a Bike & Ride Like a Local
Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities. With dedicated bike lanes, it’s safe, fast, and the most fun way to explore. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Where to rent:
Donkey Republic (app-based)
Bycyklen (electric bikes with GPS)
Suggested routes:
- From Nyhavn to The Lakes
- Fælledparken loop
- Christianshavn canals
9. Eat Your Way Through Torvehallerne Food Market
If you love food (who doesn’t?), Torvehallerne is a dream. This gourmet food hall is a local favorite for fresh produce, Danish specialties, and world bites. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Don’t Miss:
Smørrebrød at Hallernes Smørrebrød
Fresh pastries from Laura’s Bakery
Coffee from The Coffee Collective
10. Day Trip to Kronborg Castle (Hamlet’s Castle)
Shakespeare fans, this one’s for you! Just a 45-minute train ride from Copenhagen, Kronborg Castle in Helsingør is the real-life setting of Hamlet. (Best Things to Do in Copenhagen)
Things to see:
The royal halls
The spooky casemates (underground dungeons!)
The seaside views
Bonus Ideas (If You’ve Got More Time)
- Glyptoteket Museum – Classical sculptures meets tropical winter garden
- CopenHot – Outdoor hot tub boats in the harbor 😍
- Reffen Street Food – Trendy street food by the sea
- Amager Beach Park – Urban beach just 15 min from the city
Copenhagen Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: May to September (sunny, long days), or December for Christmas vibes
- Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
- Language: Danish (but English is widely spoken)
- Getting around: Public transport is great, but biking is better
- City passes: Consider the Copenhagen Card for free transport + attractions
Final Thoughts
Copenhagen is effortlessly cool, endlessly walkable (or bikeable), and full of surprises. From the elegant royal palaces to quirky counterculture zones, it’s a city that welcomes both the curious and the chill. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a week, the best things to do in Copenhagen offer a perfect mix of culture, food, and fun.
Ready to plan your trip?
Let us know in the comments what you’re most excited about—or if you’ve been before, what did you love most about Copenhagen?
📍 Visit Denmark Tourism Website for more information.
- 10 Best Cafes in Copenhagen (2025 Edition): A Coffee Lover’s Guide to Hygge
- 10 Best Sightseeing in Sabah You Can’t Miss (With Insider Tips!)
- 12 Best Hotels in Copenhagen for Every Budget (Luxury to Affordable Gems)
- Keretapi Sarong 2025: A Celebration of Culture, Unity & Fun on the Train
- Best Hotels in Penang (2025 Guide) – 11 Places to Stay for Every Budget
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you
[Travel to Denmark – Copenhagen Travel Blog – Roman and Fizah – Travel to Copenhagen – Denmark Travel Blog]
