The 12 Best Things To Do in Copenhagen for Your Bucket List

If you’re looking for the top things to do in Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital city offers breathtaking architecture and iconic landmarks. Copenhagen is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, attracting over 10 million tourists annually with its charm and endless attractions. From the historic Nyhavn harbor to the futuristic architecture of the Black Diamond Library, there’s something for everyone.

Visit the Little Mermaid statue, a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairytale, and explore Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. For food lovers, Reffen’s street food market is a must-visit, showcasing Copenhagen’s modern culinary scene. These attractions highlight why Copenhagen is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the world.

I recently spent four days in Copenhagen and was amazed by how much there is to see and do in a short time. Based on my personal experiences and reviews from other travelers, I’ve compiled this list of the 12 best things to do in Copenhagen to help you prioritize your trip.

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Europe's Most Overrated Tourist Traps The Little Mermaid Statue (Copenhagen, Denmark)

Little Mermaid Statue 1/5

Top Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark Grab a Bite to Eat at Reffen

Reffen Street Food 2/5

Nyhavn Waterfront 3/5

Top Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark Admire the Breathtaking Beauty of Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle 4/5

Instagrammable Spots in European Cities Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens 5/5

Results

Little Mermaid Statue

2 11

Reffen Street Food

4 9

Nyhavn Waterfront

7 6

Rosenborg Castle

4 9

Tivoli Gardens

2 11

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Table of Contents

Top Hotels

Here are some of the best hotel recommendations in Copenhagen:

Luxury: NH Collection Copenhagen
Midrange: Motel One Copenhagen
Budget: CityHub Copenhagen

Must-do Activities

Here are the three top things to do in Copenhagen:

Visit the Little Mermaid Statue – The Little Mermaid Statue is one of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks.
Have fun at Tivoli Gardens – Tivoli Gardens offers fun for all the family.
Grab a Bite to Eat at Reffen, one of the best places in Copenhagen to eat and drink.

Visit the Little Mermaid Statue

The Little Mermaid statue, located on a rock by the water’s edge at Langelinie promenade, is one of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks. It’s also one of the busiest, so you should arrive early if you want to miss the large crowds. Unveiled in 1913, this beautiful bronze and granite statue depicts a mermaid becoming a woman.

You likely won’t be surprised to hear that it was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale, the Little Mermaid. Created by Edvard Eriksen, the statue stands at 4.1 feet (1.25 meters) tall. The Little Mermaid Statue was gifted to Copenhagen by Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen.

You can step down onto the rocks near the statue, so get a photograph next to it.

Get there early to avoid crowds: I arrived around 7 AM, and there were only a few people around. If you want a peaceful moment with the statue and a clear photo, this is the time to go.
Look for the best photo spot: The rocks near the statue are a great place to snap a pic, but watch your step—they can be slippery, especially near the water.
Consider a guided tour: If you want more history, I joined a walking tour that covered the Little Mermaid and other nearby sights like Amalienborg Palace. It was a great way to learn more about the area!

Have Fun at Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is Denmark’s most popular tourist attraction, never mind Copenhagen. Every year, approximately 4 million people visit the world-famous amusement park. First opened in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is an exciting attraction that offers something for everyone.

There are 30 rides for children to enjoy. Keen gamers can play at Astralis Nexus, a gaming world. Shopping enthusiasts can buy souvenirs from the many gift shops, and theatergoers can watch a performance at the Tivoli Garden Theater.

A food court also sells everything from French cuisine to local delights like Smørrebrød. If you visit in the winter, you can also enjoy the park’s Christmas market, festive shows, and ice rink.

Visit on a weekday: If you can, go during the week to avoid the weekend crowds. Tivoli is packed on Saturdays and Sundays, so visiting on a Tuesday or Thursday gives you a chance to explore without waiting in long lines.
Check out the Tivoli Concert Hall: If you love music, make sure to stop by the Tivoli Concert Hall. They often have classical concerts and special events. You can buy tickets in advance online, and it’s a great way to take a break from all the rides.
Book a Tivoli Gardens tour: Consider booking a guided tour of Tivoli Gardens. It’s a great way to learn about the park’s history, which dates back to 1843. The tours are usually available in English and can give you a deeper insight into the park’s famous attractions.

Grab a Bite To Eat at Reffen

Reffen quickly became my favorite place to eat in Copenhagen, and I have no doubt it will also become one of yours. Located in Refshalevej, Reffen is the largest street food market in the Nordic region. However, Reffen is so much more than just a street food market.

While the delicious street food is the main draw, the market also offers live entertainment, pulsating activities, and magnificent waterfront views. You’ll spend an evening or two eating excellent food, drinking wine, listening to live music, and watching the sunset. Skate on the ice rink when not indulging in cuisine and relaxing.

I highly recommend the food at Real Greek, Fuego, and Everest. They all serve incredible food at a reasonable price.

Go early for parking: Reffen can get crowded, especially in the evening. If you’re driving, arrive before 5 PM to grab a good parking spot. Parking near the market costs around 50 DKK per hour, but it’s worth it to avoid the hassle later.
Bring cash for quicker food orders: Many food stalls at Reffen prefer cash or mobile payments. Having cash on hand (around 100 DKK) speeds up ordering, especially during busy times when lines can get long.
Visit during a live event: Check out Reffen’s event schedule online before you go. They often host live music and themed nights, which makes the whole experience more fun and lively. You can find the event list on their website.

Admire the Breathtaking Beauty of Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is one of the most impressive landmarks in Copenhagen. Located in the middle of Kongens Have, Central Copenhagen, this breathtaking Renaissance Castle is not to be missed. Constructed in 1606, the castle was originally a summerhouse.

Today, it guards the entire Danish Treasury. The castle features red brick walls, tall towers, and sandstone ornamentation. It’s also surrounded by lush gardens.

Inside, visitors are treated to grand bedrooms, ornate halls, and the crown jewels. The castle also has a variety of exhibits that contain clothes, possessions, and sculptures. Walking around the castle gives you a fascinating insight into what life was like for Danish royalty.

Visit the Treasury Room first: The Danish Crown Jewels are in the Treasury Room, which can get crowded later in the day. I recommend heading there as soon as you arrive to avoid the crowds.
Take the guided tour: If you want a deeper understanding of the history, the guided tour is worth it. The guides share interesting details about the castle’s history and the royal family’s lifestyle that you won’t find in the exhibits.
Check out the gardens for free: The gardens around the castle are beautiful and free to explore. It’s a nice place to relax after touring the castle. They’re especially peaceful early in the morning.

Climb the Tower at the Church of Our Saviour

For the best views in Copenhagen, climb the tower at the Church of Our Saviour. This 17th-century baroque church in the heart of Copenhagen is best known for its tall spire. What makes this spire unique is the spiral staircase that winds around its exterior.

This staircase climbs to the top of the 295 feet (90 meters) tall tower, offering unparalleled city views. From the top, you can see most of Copenhagen. It’s certainly not somewhere you want to go without a camera.

To enjoy the views, you’ll have to conquer 150 steps and nerve-racking heights, but the effort is worth the rewards. Arrive early to avoid any queues to get up the tower.

Wear comfortable shoes: The spiral staircase to the top is steep and narrow, so make sure to wear shoes you can climb in. You’ll need a good grip for the climb.
Bring a bottle of water: The climb is tough, especially if it’s warm. A small water bottle will keep you refreshed while you tackle the steps. There’s no shop at the top, so it’s best to carry your own.

Explore Freetown Christiania

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Exploring Freetown Christiania is one of the most unique things to do in Copenhagen. This incredible location was founded in 1971 when settlers cut a hole in the fence to the military barracks in Bådmandsgade. It’s an independent community in the heart of the city center.

Quite remarkably, the people who live in the settlement have their own laws and flags. Many of the people residing in Christiania built their homes themselves. Within Freetown Christiania, you’ll find quirky market stalls selling handmade jewelry, souvenir shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

Everything about the area is wild. The area even has live entertainment venues and a small recycling center.

Respect the rules: Christiania has its own set of rules, so be aware of the no-photo policy in certain areas. I found it easy to respect, but it’s important to avoid taking pictures of the locals without asking.

Visit the National Museum of Denmark

If you love history, visiting the National Museum of Denmark is one of the must-do things in Copenhagen. This museum is Denmark’s largest museum of culture and history. It contains exhibitions dedicated to the history of Danish and other foreign cultures.

While most exhibitions are permanent, there are also a few everchanging displays. For example, at the time of writing, the museum is set to open a new Viking area. The Stories of Denmark is one of the most popular exhibitions in the museum.

This exhibit takes visitors on a journey through Danish history, starting in 1660 and ending in 2000. It includes over 5,000 objects and 37 rooms.

Allow at least 2 hours: The museum is huge, and there’s a lot to see. I recommend setting aside at least 2 hours to really explore the exhibitions, especially if you want to check out the Viking exhibit and Stories of Denmark.
Visit on a Wednesday for free entry: On Wednesdays, the National Museum offers free admission. This is a great way to save a bit of money while enjoying all the exhibits.
Check for temporary exhibits: The museum regularly updates its temporary exhibits, like the Viking one. It’s worth checking the website before your visit to see what’s on, so you don’t miss anything special.

Watch F.C. Copenhagen Play at Parken

Sports fans seeking their next soccer fix must watch F.C. Copenhagen play at Parken. Known locally as F.C. København, F.C. Copenhagen is Denmark’s biggest and most successful soccer team. They are also one of the most recognizable teams on the European soccer stage.

If you time your visit right, you could watch the team play at their home ground (Parken) in the Superliga or the European Conference League. Even if they aren’t playing during your visit, I recommend visiting the ground to see where they play.

Parken has a capacity of 38,065. When the team isn’t playing, visitors can enjoy a guided tour that takes them pitchside and into the dressing rooms.

Buy tickets in advance: F.C. Copenhagen games can sell out fast, especially for big matches. I recommend buying tickets online ahead of time to guarantee your spot. You can get them on the official F.C. Copenhagen website.
Take the metro to Parken: If you’re coming from the city center, the easiest way to get to Parken is by taking the M3 metro line. It’s quick and drops you off just a short walk from the stadium.
Visit the fan store: If you’re a soccer fan, don’t miss the F.C. Copenhagen fan store. They sell all kinds of team gear, and it’s a great place to grab a souvenir after the tour or game.

Enjoy a Canal Cruise

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One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Copenhagen is by cruise. Not only is it a relaxed way to see the city, you can also learn a lot from the tour guide. This Copenhagen Canal Cruise is one of the highest-rated cruises in the city.

The tour departs from Ved Stranden 26 before navigating the city’s waterways. During the boat ride, you’ll pass many iconic sights like Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid Statue, and Amalienborg Palace. However, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about some of the city’s lesser-visited attractions.

This tour also passes the Royal Library of Denmark, Slotsholmen, and the Copenhagen Stock Exchange. Since most boats are undercover, this could be an excellent wet-weather plan.

Book tickets online: The canal cruise can fill up quickly, especially in peak season. I recommend booking your tickets online in advance at the official website to secure your spot.
Arrive early for the best seats: If you want a good view, arrive a bit early to get a seat at the front or on the open deck. This is especially nice if the weather is clear.
Bring a jacket or sweater: Even though the boat has covers, it can get chilly on the water, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons. A light jacket will keep you comfortable during the ride.

See How the Royal Family Live at Amalienborg Palace

Fun Facts About Europe Denmark’s Monarchy Is the Oldest in Europe Amalienborg, Copenhagen — © Elroce / Adobe Stock

Visit Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish Royal Family, if you’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to live like a King or Queen. The palace was constructed in the 1750s by Danish architect Nicolai Eigtved. As you would expect from a royal palace, it has a rather grand appearance.

Initially, Amalienborg was built as four palaces for four noble families. However, the Danish Royal Family moved in when Christiansborg burned down in 1794. They’ve been living in the Rococo-style palaces ever since.

A walk around the Palace Square is enough to show you how spectacular Amalienborg is, but you can also go inside. Inside, you can explore the private chambers of former kings and queens, grandiose reception rooms, and beautiful halls.

Check the Changing of the Guard: If you’re there around noon, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony in the Palace Square. It’s a great chance to see the royal guards up close, and it adds to the royal experience.
Visit the Amalienborg Museum: If you’re curious about the royal family’s history, the Amalienborg Museum is a must. It’s located in one of the palace buildings and offers a look inside the royal family’s private rooms and personal artifacts.

Take Photographs of Nyhavn

Nyhavn is one of the most beautiful things to see in Copenhagen. If you have Instagram, there’s a good chance you’ve seen photographs of this vibrant 17th-century waterfront on the app. Stretching from Kongens Nytorv to the Inner Harbour, this breathtaking location is famed for its colorful townhouses, cafes, and restaurants.

The combination of the iconic buildings and picturesque canal creates a stunning setting that every traveler dreams of finding. You’ll have serious regrets if you don’t spend an hour or two walking along Nyhavn taking photographs.

Why not grab a beer in one of the restaurants or an ice cream while you’re there? The ice cream at Vaffelbageren is to die for, trust me!

Go early or late for fewer crowds: Nyhavn gets really busy, especially in the afternoon. If you can, visit early in the morning or later in the evening to take photos without the crowds. You’ll have a much better chance of snapping the perfect shot.

Have a Drink at the Proud Mary Pub

After a busy day of exploring, sit down for a refreshing beer at the Proud Mary Pub. The Proud Mary Pub is a vibrant establishment with a cozy atmosphere, fabulous decor, and live entertainment. Whether you want to kick back and relax, watch sports, or listen to live music, this pub has what you’re looking for.

When I was in Copenhagen, I visited the Proud Mary Pub twice and loved it both times. It offers an excellent variety of drinks, and the funky decor is very entertaining. If you’re hungry, you can also grab something tasty to eat. The pizza and nachos are delicious.

Check out the happy hour: The Proud Mary Pub has a great happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM. You can enjoy drinks at a discounted price, making it a perfect way to start your evening.
Try the local craft beer: Proud Mary offers a selection of Danish craft beers. Ask the staff for recommendations if you’re unsure where to start.

Copenhagen Has a Magical 19th-Century Amusement Park — and Its Waterfront Is a Design Lover’s Dream