As a traveler, you owe it to yourself to visit Copenhagen, Denmark’s picturesque capital city. Steeped in history yet brimming with modern energy, Copenhagen offers a perfect blend of stunning architecture, world-class museums, charming canals, and innovative cuisine. Whether you’re interested in design, history, food, or the arts, Copenhagen has something for everyone.
In this article, you’ll discover ten must-see attractions that should be at the top of your list for places to visit in Denmark Copenhagen in Copenhagen. From the storied halls of Christiansborg Palace to the colorful Nyhavn canal district, Copenhagen’s treasures await your discovery. Get ready to be enchanted by this Scandinavian gem.
10 Must-See Places to Visit in Denmark Copenhagen
Visit the Iconic Little Mermaid Statue
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without seeing the world-famous Little Mermaid statue. Sculpted by Edvard Eriksen and unveiled in 1913, this bronze statue depicts the mermaid character from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Little Mermaid.”
You can find the Little Mermaid perched on a rock in the waters of Copenhagen harbor at the Langelinie promenade. While quite small, standing at only 1.25 meters (4.1 feet) tall, the statue is an iconic symbol of Copenhagen and attracts over one million visitors each year. The best time to visit the mermaid is early morning when the area is less crowded. You can get right up close to the statue and take photos. For a unique perspective, see her from the water on a canal tour or hop-on hop-off boat.
The surrounding area where the statue sits is also worth exploring. The Kastellet, an old military fortress, is nearby as well as the Gefion Fountain and St. Alban’s Church. After visiting the mermaid, take a stroll along the promenade to soak in the atmosphere and views of the harbor. For art lovers, the Statens Museum for Kunst, Denmark’s national gallery, is only a 15-minute walk away.
A visit to the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen is highly recommended. While smaller in person than expected, she remains an important cultural icon in Denmark with an enchanting history behind her. Seeing this famed statue in her picturesque location by the harbor creates memories that will last long after leaving Copenhagen.
Wander Through Nyhavn’s Colorful Harbor
You must visit the picturesque Nyhavn harbor, one of Copenhagen’s most beloved attractions. This historic harbor lined with colorful townhouses and boats was once a busy Danish trade hub. Today, Nyhavn is a popular spot for dining al fresco, enjoying a drink while people watching, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.
As you meander down the cobblestone walkway, you’ll notice the harbor is anchored by old schooners and lined with restaurants featuring outdoor seating. Many of the townhouses have been well-preserved since the 17th century and now house cozy cafes at street level. This scenic waterfront area provides a glimpse into Copenhagen’s storied maritime history.
While exploring Nyhavn, stroll along the canal or book a sightseeing cruise to view the harbor from the water. Some of the townhouses are open for tours, like No. 9, once home to famous fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen. Many visitors recommend dining at one of the traditional Danish restaurants dotting the harbor like Cap Horn, Ida Davidsen, or Nyhavns Færgekro. Afterward, grab a drink at an open-air bar and listen to street musicians play jazz music.
A visit to Copenhagen is not complete without seeing the picturesque Nyhavn harbor. Meander, dine, drink and soak in the surroundings of this historic district, a symbol of Denmark’s seafaring past and present allure. Nyhavn harbor continues to enchant visitors with its postcard-perfect setting and old-world charm.
Explore the Grounds of Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle is a royal castle located in Copenhagen and is home to the Crown Jewels and Royal Collections. It was built in the 17th century and for centuries was used as a royal residence. Today, the castle is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the lives of Danish royals from the past.
Explore the Castle Grounds
The castle is situated within the lush King’s Garden, the oldest royal garden in Denmark. Take time to stroll through the well-manicured lawns and walkways while enjoying the seasonal flowers and foliage. Notice the Renaissance-style herb garden and the old lime tree alley planted in the 17th century.
Within the castle complex, you’ll find the castle itself, a Renaissance style palace, as well as the Castle Barracks, which now house a museum. The picturesque moat surrounding the castle adds to the ambiance of stepping back in time. For the best views, walk around the perimeter of the moat.
Tour the Royal Collections
Inside the castle, you’ll find many artifacts from royal Danish history, including an armory, treasury, and royal artworks. The Royal Collections contain centuries of accumulated treasures, like opulent crowns and scepters, gold and silverware, clocks, furniture, and other valuables. Some of the highlights include the Crown Jewels, the Throne Chair of King Christian IV, and an art chamber decorated in exquisite Renaissance style.
Allow at least half a day to fully explore the castle, its grounds, and the Royal Collections. The self-guided audio tours provide commentary on the history and significance of the many rooms and artifacts. For an in-depth experience, opt for a guided tour from a castle historian.
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without visiting the magnificent Rosenborg Castle. Its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and glimpse into royal history make it a must-see destination for any visitor interested in Denmark’s cultural heritage.
Stroll Through the King’s Garden
As the capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. One of the most popular spots is the King’s Garden (Kongens Have), the country’s oldest royal park. Established in the 17th century, the sprawling garden spans 35 hectares in the heart of the city center.
A leisurely stroll through the King’s Garden provides a peaceful respite from Copenhagen’s bustling streets. Pathways lined with majestic oak trees and ornate lampposts wind through manicured lawns and flower beds. You may spot the park’s resident red squirrels scampering about or birds chirping in the treetops.
In the summer, people flock to the King’s Garden to picnic on the grass, read books, and enjoy the sunshine. The park’s centerpiece is Rosenborg Castle, a renaissance castle that houses crown jewels and royal artifacts. Other highlights include an old-fashioned amusement park, a puppet theater, and the Botanical Garden.
Rosenborg Castle
No trip to the King’s Garden is complete without touring the grand Rosenborg Castle. Constructed in the early 1600s, Rosenborg served as a royal residence for many years. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s historic halls and chambers containing centuries-old furnishings, artworks, crown jewels, and other artifacts belonging to the Danish monarchy. The castle’s picturesque towers and spires create a fairy tale-like scene in the midst of a modern city.
Botanical Garden
Adjacent to the King’s Garden lies the University of Copenhagen’s Botanical Garden. Established in 1600, the botanical garden contains one of the oldest plant collections in Europe with over 13,000 species. Wander through the tropical palm house, cactus gardens, and arboretum featuring rare and exotic plants from around the world. The botanical garden is especially stunning when the flowers are in full bloom during the summer.
A visit to the King’s Garden and surrounding attractions offers a glimpse into Copenhagen’s rich history and natural beauty. No matter the season, the park charms visitors with its well-manicured lawns, vibrant blooms, and old-world ambiance in the heart of a stylish modern city.
Tour the Historic Buildings of Christiansborg Palace
As the official royal residence in Copenhagen, Christiansborg Palace is a must-see historic site. Construction of the palace began in the 12th century, and today it houses the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister’s office, and the Supreme Court. However, much of the palace is open for visitors to explore.
The Royal Reception Rooms
The Royal Reception Rooms on the first floor are used by the Royal Family for official events and audiences. When not in use, visitors can tour the lavish rooms, including The Great Hall, an opulent space used for banquets and balls. The Hall features marble floors, gilded pilasters, and ceiling frescoes depicting key moments in Danish history.
The Royal Stables
The Royal Stables house the royal horses and carriages still used today for ceremonial events. Visitors can see the Royal Mews, including historic gilded carriages, velvet riding tack, and other equestrian equipment. Guided tours provide insight into how the royal horses are selected, trained, and cared for.
The Royal Kitchen
The subterranean Royal Kitchen lies beneath the Great Hall. A guided tour offers a glimpse into how grand meals are prepared for events in the palace. Copper pots and pans lining the walls give a sense of the scope of the kitchen’s operations. A massive fireplace and ovens reveal how entire animals were roasted for lavish banquets.
The Ruins of Absalon’s Castle
Beneath Christiansborg Palace lie the ruins of Absalon’s Castle, an abbey built in 1167. The archeological site features remnants of the abbey church, including parts of the chancel, nave, and transept. A museum within the ruins displays artifacts like coins, pottery fragments, and tools uncovered during excavations. Descending into the crypt-like remains of the castle provides a glimpse into Copenhagen’s medieval origins.
Christiansborg Palace offers a comprehensive look into the history, culture, politics, and daily life in Denmark over nine centuries. From royal grandeur to medieval ruins, there is something for every interest at this iconic historic site. Visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring all Christiansborg Palace has to offer.
See the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace
One of the highlights of visiting Copenhagen is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Amalienborg Palace. As the official winter residence of the Danish royal family, Amalienborg Palace is an iconic landmark in Copenhagen. Daily at noon, crowds gather in the palace square to watch the changing of the guard, called Den Kongelige Livgarde.
The Ceremony
The changing of the guard ceremony features two groups of royal guards: the old guard leaving their shift, and the new guard arriving to take over. Marching in formation while a military band plays, the old guard exits the palace and heads to Rosenborg Castle. Shortly after, the new guard enters from Rosenborg Castle, marching through the palace gates to relieve the old guard. They then take up their positions around Amalienborg Palace for the next shift.
History of the Palace
Amalienborg Palace was built in the 1700s and consists of four identical rococo palaces facing an octagonal courtyard. In the center of the square is a large equestrian statue of King Frederik V. The palaces were originally built for four noble families, but were acquired by the royal family in the 1794 and have served as the main residence for the Danish monarchy ever since.
When to Visit
The changing of the guard ceremony takes place every day at noon, lasting around 40 minutes. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to get a good viewing spot. The ceremony is most impressive on special occasions like the Queen’s birthday or other national holidays when the royal guards don full ceremonial attire. However, the daily ceremony in their navy blue and red uniforms is still a memorable sight.
Viewing the changing of the guard at the royal residence of Amalienborg Palace offers a glimpse into the history, culture and traditions of the Danish monarchy. Along with the palaces, it is considered an important part of Denmark’s architectural and cultural heritage. No trip to Copenhagen is complete without witnessing this time-honored ceremony.
Relax in Tivoli Gardens
As Denmark’s top tourist attraction, Tivoli Gardens is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Opened in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. However, it is much more than just an amusement park. Tivoli Gardens offers beautiful landscaped gardens, scenic walking paths, and a variety of rides and attractions for both children and adults.
Within the gardens, you will find exotic architecture, gorgeous flowers, and tranquil walking paths. Over 4 million flowers are planted each year, with tulips and daffodils blooming in the spring and roses flowering in the summer. The gardens feature small ponds, fountains and quaint buildings in Chinese, Nordic and Arabic styles. After strolling through the gardens, you can watch a musical performance at the open-air stage or dine at one of the many restaurants offering international cuisine.
In addition to the gardens, Tivoli Gardens has over 25 rides and attractions including a wooden roller coaster from 1914, swinging pirate ships, bumper cars and a 100-year-old carousel. Several rides are geared toward children and families while thrill rides like The Demon and Vertigo will satisfy adventure seekers. At night, thousands of lights illuminate the gardens, creating a magical atmosphere. Tivoli Gardens is open late into the evening, so you can experience the park both day and night.
A visit to Tivoli Gardens offers an opportunity to experience Danish culture, enjoy scenic gardens, thrill rides and family attractions in a whimsical setting. No trip to Copenhagen is complete without spending time exploring the wonders of Tivoli Gardens. Plan to spend at least half a day wandering the gardens, dining and riding your favorite attractions. Tivoli Gardens is open daily from mid-April through September and on weekends in October. Admission tickets can be purchased on their website or at the entrance gates.
Check Out the Exhibits at the National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark houses a vast collection of Danish artifacts and artwork. As Denmark’s largest museum of cultural history, it is home to a wide array of exhibits spanning from the Stone Age to the 21st century.
When visiting the National Museum, be sure to explore the Danish Prehistory collection. This exhibit features artifacts from the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods in Denmark, including tools, weapons, and adornments from the Mesolithic Maglemosian culture. The Viking Age and Middle Ages collection is also impressive, with Viking swords, helmets, jewelry, and an intricately carved 12th-century baptismal font.
For art lovers, the museum’s collection of Danish and European paintings is a must-see. Spanning from the 14th century to today, the museum houses works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, Matisse, and Picasso. The Danish Golden Age collection includes paintings by Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, known as the “father of Danish painting,” and his students. Contemporary artworks by Danish artists such as Asger Jorn, Per Kirkeby, and Tal R are also on display.
In addition to the permanent collections, the National Museum hosts temporary exhibits on a range of topics related to Danish culture, history and art. Recent exhibits have featured Viking weaponry, Danish chair design, and LEGO sculptures. The museum also has an education center, museum shop, and cafe onsite to round out your visit.
Whether you spend an hour or a full day exploring, the National Museum of Denmark has something for visitors of all ages. This world-class museum provides a comprehensive look at Danish culture and history in an engaging way. On your next trip to Copenhagen, be sure to check out the exhibits at the National Museum of Denmark.
Places to Visit in Denmark Copenhagen FAQ
Denmark’s capital city of Copenhagen offers many attractions for visitors to explore. Before embarking on your sightseeing adventure, consider the following frequently asked questions.
How much time do I need in Copenhagen?
To experience many of Copenhagen’s top highlights, we recommend spending at least 3 to 4 days in the city. This will allow you enough time to visit sites like Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn harbor, and Rosenborg Castle without feeling rushed. If you want to venture outside the city to attractions like Frederiksborg Castle or Kronborg Castle, add an extra day or two.
What is the best way to get around Copenhagen?
Copenhagen has an efficient public transit system, including busses, trains, and metro. The metro is fast, frequent, and easy to use, making it a convenient option for most sightseeing. You can also rent bikes to cycle around the city. Many major attractions are within walking distance of each other in downtown Copenhagen. Only hire taxis for longer distances or late at night.
What is the weather like in Copenhagen?
Copenhagen has a mild maritime climate with cool summers and cold, wet winters. The summer season from June to August is the most popular time to visit, with average highs of around 65 F. Be prepared for rain showers in between sunny periods. September and May can also be pleasant, with smaller crowds and lower hotel rates. Winters are chilly, with average highs of 38 F, so pack warm clothing if traveling from December through February.
What traditional Danish foods should I try?
Some classic Danish dishes to sample in Copenhagen include:
• Smørrebrød - Open-faced sandwiches topped with meat, fish, or vegetables.
• Frikadeller - Danish meatballs usually served with red cabbage and potatoes.
• Æbleskiver - Puffy pancake balls served with jam and powdered sugar.
• Stegt flæsk - Fried pork belly with potatoes and parsley sauce.
• Rødgrød med fløde - Berry pudding with cream, a traditional Danish dessert.
• Danish pastries - Buttery croissant-like pastries, ideal for breakfast or fika (coffee break).
Conclusion
As you have seen, Denmark’s capital city of Copenhagen offers a wealth of exciting attractions for any traveler. From stunning royal palaces and historic castles to world-class museums, vibrant shopping districts, and charming canalside cafes, this cosmopolitan city has something for everyone. Whether you spend your days exploring the picturesque cobblestone streets, sampling innovative Nordic cuisine, or simply enjoying a leisurely bike ride through some of the city’s many green spaces, Copenhagen is sure to capture your heart. With so much to experience in this enchanting city, one visit may not be enough. You will likely find yourself dreaming of the day you can return to discover even more of Copenhagen’s treasures.
