Copenhagen, Denmark: 9 Top Things To Do

Revised July 14, 2026

With its colorful waterfront, world-class museums, royal palaces, and bicycle-friendly streets, Copenhagen is one of Europe’s most inviting capital cities. The Danish capital effortlessly blends centuries of history with innovative design, sustainable living, and a relaxed Scandinavian lifestyle that encourages visitors to slow down and savor the experience. Whether you’re strolling along the iconic Nyhavn harbor, exploring fairy-tale castles, or enjoying a canal cruise, Copenhagen offers something for every traveler.

Why Visit Copenhagen?

Copenhagen combines the charm of a historic European city with the innovation of a modern capital. Visitors can explore royal palaces, admire colorful 17th-century buildings along Nyhavn, tour fascinating museums, and relax in beautiful parks and gardens—all within a compact, walkable city. Add outstanding restaurants, excellent public transportation, and a welcoming atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Copenhagen is one of Scandinavia’s most popular destinations.

This guide highlights my favorite things to do in Copenhagen, from must-see landmarks and historic neighborhoods to beautiful gardens and cultural attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or using the city as a gateway to Scandinavia, these experiences will help you discover why Copenhagen consistently ranks among the world’s best cities to visit.

Here are my 9 top things to do in charming, compelling, and captivating Copenhagen.

The Copenhagen Card

If you want to save money and make the most of what you see and do in Copenhagen, you must buy the Copenhagen Card. Its slogan? “See More. Pay Less.” The price is based on the number of days you plan to use the card for single- or multi-day segments: 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours. You also have to remember that the clock starts ticking as soon as you “activate” the card.

I purchased the Copenhagen Card online, so I could use it as soon as my EasyJet flight landed at Copenhagen Airport. Since free transportation is a perk, I wanted to ride the metro from the airport to my hotel for free.

During my ride on the metro, I began researching which museums and venues I could visit for free. The list seems endless.

Stromma Canal Tour

I highly recommend starting your first day at 10 am on board a Stromma Canal Tour. It is free with the Copenhagen Card. You acquire your ticket at Ved Stranden. The original boat tour dates back to 1904.

Gliding down the canals, you will get introduced to the city’s most famous buildings, including The Opera House, Our Savior’s Church, and Amalienborg Palace. There is a live guide who describes the city’s churches, castles, historic houses, and new buildings of architectural interest, such as The Black Diamond.

My favorite part was the silent stretch where we sailed past the Danish who lived on houseboats. The friendly dwellers waved at us while we wished that we could board their “houses on water.”

Danish Design Museum

Copenhagen is equally recognized as a global design capital as well as architecture capital . . . and nowhere is this clearer than the Danish Design Museum.

Located in Amalienborg, you pass two columns at a gated entrance, proceed down a cobblestone courtyard, and then enter the museum designed in Rococo architecture. Follow the twisting paths through rooms to study special exhibitions for glass, ceramics, fashion, textiles, and posters.

My favorite part was a timeline exhibition showcasing major design works for Finn Juhl, Arne Jacobsen, Paul Kjaerholm, Verner Panton, and Hans Wegner.

End your day in the bucolic gardens, sipping a glass of wine or frosty beer at the café. Your feet will need a rest after galloping around Copenhagen for the last eight hours.

Tivoli Gardens

I saved Denmark’s oldest amusement park until after the museums closed. Since it is located in the city center, Tivoli Gardens is the perfect place for evening entertainment. The Copenhagen Card only covers the entrance fee. You must purchase individual ride tickets or an unlimited ride ticket.

Founded in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is considered a national treasure. Such luminaries as Hans Christian Anderson and Walt Disney visited the park. The wooden Roller Coaster opened in 1914. It is still the oldest and most popular ride. “It is only one of the seven roller coasters in the world still featuring a man in one of the carts controlling the brakes manually,” according to Tivoli Gardens.

From the moment you walk through the gates, you will see beautifully designed gardens, iconic buildings, and stately architecture. Summer activities include concerts, fireworks, and festivals.

The Botanical Garden

I set my alarm for an early wake-up call to make the most of my second full day of sightseeing in Copenhagen. Since most museums don’t open until 10 am, I chose to take the metro to visit the Botanical Garden.

Considered a green oasis in the middle of the city, the gardens are free of charge. But if you want to visit the iconic Palm House, you will need to purchase a ticket. (Admission is free with the Copenhagen Card.)

Opened in 1874, this glass palace is modeled after the Crystal Palace in London. Architect Peter Christian Bonecke designed the Victorian building in glass and cast iron.

Gardeners will revel in room after room filled with exotic plants. Meander down rows of plants and flowers. But leave plenty of time to thrill to the soft flapping of delicate wings in the Butterfly House. You will feel your heart flutter as they gracefully dance in the air around the orchids.

Rosenborg Castle

Just down the street lies the Rosenborg Castle. Head straight to the ticket booth to get your timed entry ticket. You can explore the King’s Garden while you wait.

Christian IV built this castle in the early 17^th century. It was his favorite castle. The Great Hall is home to three life-sized silver lions. You can also view the coronation thrones. Tapestries line the walls. You’ll also see the king’s bedroom, bathroom, and writing chamber.

You will need to enter the castle’s basement to see the crowns of Danish kings and queens.

The “Crown Jewels” date back to Queen Sophie, who specified in her will that the jewels should always be “with the crown.” Three centuries later, HM Queen Margrethe still wears the crown jewels—consisting of a diamond set, a ruby set, a pearl set, and an emerald set—at royal events.

The Round Tower

If you want to see an eagle’s-eye view of Copenhagen, set aside time to climb the steps of The Round Tower.

“A living landmark of Copenhagen since 1642.”

Rundetaarn

Located in a bustling shopping district, this 17th-century tower and observatory is known as the Rundetaarn. Built by King Christian IV, the tower is Europe’s oldest functioning observatory. In addition, you can visit the old library hall.

If you are not afraid of heights, climb to the roof for 360-degree views of Copenhagen. You might feel a little queasy on the ascent and descent. The hardest part is walking up the spiral ramp.

Museum of Copenhagen

I would suggest visiting the Museum of Copenhagen on your first day in the city. You can learn so much about the city’s growth from Viking stronghold to the UNESCO Architecture Capital of 2023. The museum is located right behind City Hall.

Survey the 600-year-old shipwreck. Pursue the bicycle, Copenhagen’s beloved means of transport. See a large-scale, interactive model of the city. Learn about the fires that almost destroyed the city. You can also book a private tour of the museum or a guided walk in the city.

See “The Making of Wonderful Copenhagen: Poster Artist Ib Antoni“ exhibition at the Museum of Copenhagen. Danish poster artist Ib Antoni Jensen created advertising campaigns in the 1960s that made America (and the world) fall in love with Denmark. Stroll through multiple rooms to see oversized posters and memorabilia featuring the Smiling Mermaid. This exhibit runs through October 31, 2023.

The Danish Architecture Center

I saved DAC for the last day of my trip as the museum is open on Mondays. I recommend saving at least two hours to walk through the museum. Located in the BLOX on Copenhagen’s waterfront, DAC hosts architecture buffs, festivals, guided tours, and exhibitions.

Study the timeline of Copenhagen’s architectural triumphs. The So Danish! permanent exhibition traces the historical development of Danish architecture, from the Vikings to modern times.

I learned a lot about Danish architectural masterminds such as Arne Jacobsen and major architectural studios, including Bjarke Ingels Group and Olafur Eliasson.

I wish I had visited the website in advance to participate in a DAC-guided tour from Nyhavn to the 8 House and the bicycle bridges to the harbor baths.

The Black Diamond

I ended my celebration of Copenhagen’s architectural triumphs with a visit to The Black Diamond. The home of the Royal Danish Library frankly defies words. Its sleek black form dominates the harbor and serves as a modern-day lighthouse for any sailor on a boat.

Cruise the gift shop, buy a coffee at the café, take the elevator to the historic library section, and finally end your visit on the bridge, looking down at all the library patrons below. You’ll also see the city through the lens of the enormous glass wall.

The treasures in the Royal Library include letters from famous Danes, diary journals by Hans Christian Andersen, and manuscripts by Karen Blixen.

I am reminded by Hans Christian Andersen’s quote, “When words fail, music speaks.” The symphony of Copenhagen’s architecture, design, and culture is still ringing in my ears.

FAQs

What is Copenhagen best known for?

Copenhagen is best known for its colorful Nyhavn waterfront, Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, royal palaces, and world-renowned Danish design. The city is also famous for its bicycle-friendly streets, innovative cuisine, and commitment to sustainability, making it one of Europe’s most livable capitals.

Is Copenhagen worth visiting?

Yes. Copenhagen offers the perfect mix of history, culture, architecture, and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re interested in touring castles, exploring museums, taking a canal cruise, or dining at world-class restaurants, the city has something for every traveler. Its compact size also makes it easy to explore in just a few days.

How many days should you spend in Copenhagen?

Plan to spend at least three days in Copenhagen. This gives you enough time to visit the city’s major attractions, stroll through historic neighborhoods, enjoy a canal tour, and experience the local food scene. If you’d like to take day trips to nearby castles or Sweden, consider staying four or five days.

What is the best time to visit Copenhagen?

The best time to visit Copenhagen is from May through September, when temperatures are mild, and the city comes alive with outdoor cafés, festivals, and long daylight hours. Summer is the busiest season, while spring and early fall offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Is Copenhagen a walkable city?

Yes. Copenhagen is one of Europe’s most walkable cities. Many of its top attractions, including Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, Rosenborg Castle, and Tivoli Gardens, are within walking or biking distance of one another. The city also has an excellent public transportation system if you want to travel farther.

Is Copenhagen expensive to visit?

Copenhagen is considered one of Europe’s more expensive destinations, particularly for hotels and dining. However, visitors can save money by purchasing a Copenhagen Card, using public transportation, enjoying free attractions and parks, and dining at local bakeries or casual cafés.

Final Thoughts

Copenhagen may be one of Europe’s more expensive cities, but it doesn’t have to break your travel budget. Save money by shopping at local grocery stores for breakfast, picnic lunches, or snacks instead of eating every meal at restaurants. If you plan to visit several major attractions, the Copenhagen Card can save you money by including admission to many museums and castles, along with unlimited public transportation.

To make the most of your visit, consider joining a free walking tour to learn about Copenhagen’s history, architecture, and neighborhoods from a knowledgeable local guide. Whether you’re admiring the colorful harbor at Nyhavn, exploring royal palaces, or simply enjoying the city’s relaxed Scandinavian lifestyle, Copenhagen is a destination that rewards travelers who slow down and take time to experience its unique charm.