Best Places To Visit In Copenhagen: One of the most enchanting cities in Europe, Copenhagen is home to a variety of fascinating attractions that draw millions of visitors every year. The capital of Denmark boasts a rich culture & history.
The city has everything from spell-binding natural attractions to world-class museums and lively entertainment and culinary scenes. Its impressive urban design has earned it the title of UNESCO World Capital of Architecture for 2023. It also has a rich past as it was one of the oldest habitats of Northern Europe.
Until the 1400s, it was a Viking fishing village. Many also believe it to be the birthplace of the Nordic food revolution. As a result, it now is home to many excellent restaurants, the most notable being the famous Noma. It also has a distinctly nautical vibe with Nyhavn’s colourful homes and majestic ships in the docks.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled holiday, this beautiful European city won’t disappoint.
To help you curate the perfect itinerary, we’ve created a list of 9 best places to visit in Copenhagen, Denmark:
Dive in!
Tivoli Gardens #1
Dating back to 1843, Tivoli Gardens is a world-famous amusement park and pleasure garden that inspired Walt Disney. From riding on a roller coaster to indulging in a scrumptious meal at the cafe and shopping, there are various fun activities to enjoy here. The impressive entrance at Vesterbrogade features an archway with columns. As you move inside, you’ll find a small village featuring charming shops and a lake lined with beautiful trees.
There are over 20 attractions here. Some of the most notable ones include roundabouts, halls of mirrors, open-air theatres, flower gardens, and a Moorish-styled concert hall. It is also home to ‘Rutschebanen’, the oldest roller coaster in the world. With so much to offer, it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Copenhagen.
National Museum of Denmark #2
Fascinated by Danish history and culture? Head to the National Museum of Denmark. It has a vast collection that will take you through 14,000 years of Danish history. You’ll find a wide variety of exhibitions covering the Stone Age, the Viking Age, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and modern Danish history.
Some of the notable attractions include runic stones, a sun chariot that is more than two centuries old, and collections of antiquities and coins. It also houses the Prince’s Palace, an 18th-century Rococo building inspired by French style. Kids will especially like the ethnographical collection where they’ll find a portrayal of life among the Eskimos. If you’re an art enthusiast, you can also visit the nearby Thorvaldsen’s Museum which houses stunning sculptures.
Nyhavn Harbor #3
The 17th-century merchants’ houses and colourful boats make this one of the most picturesque places in the city. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nyvahn used to be an infamous area with alehouses, busy sailors, and ladies of pleasure all around. But it has now developed into an upscale, charming area that draws locals and tourists alike.
From shopping for a souvenir from one of the many shops, to relishing your favourite delicacies and hot coffee from the charming cafes, there is plenty to do here. Visitors can also explore the numerous museum ships with the most notable being a lightship from the late 19th century. You can also pay your respects at the anchor at the end of the harbor which is dedicated to Danish sailors who sacrificed their lives in the second world war.
If you’re interested in exploring the canal further, go for a sightseeing boat tour.
Christiansborg Palace #4
Once the regal home of queens and kings, Christiansborg Palace is awe-inspiring in its beauty and grandeur. Located on the small island of Slotsholmen, it was constructed in the 18th century by King Christian XIII. There have been many renovations to the palace since then. It now houses the Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s Office. History buffs will love to explore the 800-year-old history of the place.
The Royal House still uses numerous parts of the palace but many are open for tours. You can see the site where the city’s earliest fortifications were built by Bishop Absalon in 1167. The ruins of the fortress and the bishop’s castle are there. Other notable areas include the Palace Chapel, Royal Reception Rooms, the Royal Kitchen, and Royal Stables. Make sure you check the timings in advance before planning your tour as the timings vary area-wise since they are still in use.
The Little Mermaid #5
Made by Edvard Eriksen in 1913, the Little Mermaid is emblematic of the city. It’s based on the famous fairy tale by H.C Anderson. The story depicts a mermaid who falls in love with a prince and comes out of the ocean. But unfortunately, the prince doesn’t reciprocate and she is forced to return to the sea.
The bronze statue beautifully depicts her plight with a sombre expression, making the fictional character come alive in the minds of the viewers. Sitting on the banks of Oresun, it makes for some great pictures. There are several boat tours that pass by this beautiful statue but visitors can catch a better view from the land.
The David Collection #6
This charming museum is a haven for art lovers. It houses an impressive collection of Islamic art & artefacts, and an exquisite selection of 18th-century European art, as well as early modern Danish artworks. Every visitor is given an iPad where they can gain in-depth knowledge of each artefact, ensuring an immersive experience. It can easily take you an entire day to explore the museum.
Den Bla Planet #7
Den Bla Planet is the largest aquarium in Northern Europe. Built to seem like a whirlpool, it features aluminium-covered walls that portray rolling sea waves. Several inner pathways flow like tributaries from the center. From hammerhead sharks to moray eels, alligators, and turtles, there is a wide variety of aquatic animals here.
There are almost 50 aquariums and installations. You can also touch an inhabitant in the tropical touch pool and watch otters play, there are many special experiences on offer here. When hunger strikes, head to the café for a treat.
Amalienborg Castle #8
This grand castle and its beautiful waterfront gardens draw many visitors to admire its beauty. It’s located close to Rosenborg in the Frederiksstaden quarter and takes its name from Queen Sophie Amalie. The four palaces that face the square offer a peek into the regal history of the city. Originally intended for nobility, they were occupied by the Royal Family.
Today, Queen Margrethe II and her family live in the upper story of Christian IX Palace. You can see the soldiers of the Royal Guard here in their impressive blue uniforms. It’s one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen.
Strøget Shopping Mile #9
This vibrant shopping area is chock full of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. There are numerous roads intersecting with one another, beginning from Town Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen) and ending at Kongens Nytorv. Strøget was a nickname given to the area in the 1800s. From high-end brands to relatively affordable ones, you’ll find them all here.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a nature lover, Copenhagen won’t disappoint.
So, start with the place that attracts you the most and get ready for an epic outing.
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FAQs:
Q. What are the top attractions to visit in Copenhagen?
Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Castle, Den Bla Planet, and Nyhavn Harbor are some of the top attractions to visit in Copenhagen.
Q. What are the most popular things to do in Copenhagen with children?
Exploring the various attractions in Tivoli Gardens, witnessing aquatic creatures at Den Bla Planet, and visiting the beautiful Rosenborg Castle are some of the most popular things to do in Copenhagen with children.