The Best Things to do in Copenhagen

A metropolitan city that’s walkable, safe to cycle around, and has great public transportation along with plenty of urban green spaces? Copenhagen has stolen my heart and rapidly become one of the cities I’d most like to live in. Until I can turn my vacation into a permanent residency, I’ll recap my favorite things to do in Copenhagen, to help you fall in love with this Scandinavian city. Whether you’re looking for unique, free, or fun, these are the best things to do in Copenhagen. 

The Best Free Things to Do in Copenhagen

• GreenKayak: Pay for your kayak rental with your labor—eco-friendly GreenKayak loans out boats equipped with trash bins for free. In exchange, they just ask that you collect garbage from the water, and post a picture on social media. 
• CopenHill: This unique waste-to-energy plant offers skiing, climbing, and breathtaking city views. CopenHill is a remarkable example of sustainable architecture, combining functionality with leisure activities. The hiking track and rooftop bar are free admission, but you will have to pay for skiing and climbing. 
• Nyhavn: This iconic waterfront district is a must-visit. The colorful 17th-century townhouses lining the canal create a picturesque scene. Grab a coffee, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere. The lively atmosphere, with its bustling cafes and historic buildings, offers a glimpse into Copenhagen’s maritime past.
• Kastellet: This well-preserved star-shaped fortress offers serene walks, historical architecture, and stunning views. Explore the historic ramparts, wander through the peaceful gardens, or visit the charming windmill.
• Copenhagen University Library: While it’s not always open to the public, there are two free guided tours each day (in Danish at 1pm and English at 2pm.) The 25-minute tours are first-come, first-served, and offer a glimpse into this beautiful, historic building. The library’s stunning neo-Gothic architecture and impressive collection of books create a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.
• Frederik’s Church: This magnificent church, often called the Marble Church, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Its massive copper dome and intricate marble details make it a landmark in Copenhagen.
• Christiansborg Palace Tower: For panoramic views of Copenhagen, climb the tower of Christiansborg Palace. It’s free to access, but be prepared for security checks. The climb to the top is rewarded with breathtaking views of the city skyline, the harbor, and the surrounding countryside.
• Amalienborg Palace: Watch the changing of the guard ceremony, a free daily event that showcases the pomp and circumstance of the Danish Royal Guard. This traditional ceremony, with its colorful uniforms and precise marching, is a fascinating spectacle.
• Freetown Christiania: This alternative neighborhood is a fascinating glimpse into a different way of life. Explore the colorful streets, unique shops, and relaxed atmosphere. Christiania is a self-governed community with its own rules and regulations, offering a unique cultural experience.
• Troll Hunt: Embark on a fun, free adventure to find the hidden wooden trolls created by artist Thomas Dambo. These whimsical sculptures are scattered throughout the city, offering a playful and creative way to explore Copenhagen’s parks and green spaces.
• Reffen Street Food Market: This vibrant market offers a variety of delicious food options from around the world. Beyond the food, Reffen is a cultural hub with live music, art installations, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Assistens Cemetery: This historic cemetery is a peaceful green space with stunning architecture and the graves of famous Danes. The cemetery’s beautiful gardens, serene atmosphere, and historic significance make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The Best Unique Things to Do in Copenhagen

• Rent a Boat: Pack a picnic lunch and rent a GoBoat for an hour or two. These electric boats (which use solar power) can fit up to eight people and have a picnic table in the center of the wide boat. No sailing experience or captain is required—just be warned that if you’ve never sailed a boat before, the steering can be a bit hard to get the hang of! We had some harrowing moments where we thought we might crash into another boat during our low-speed exploration of the harbor. GoBoat rentals start at 399 DKK (approximately $56) for an hour. I recommend renting a boat for at least two hours to be able to explore a good area and enjoy the ride. 
• Cisternerne: Discover the eerie beauty of these underground cisterns, now transformed into an art exhibition space. The Cisternerne’s unique atmosphere and innovative exhibitions make it a must-see for art and culture lovers. The exhibitions change frequently, but when I went, it was a modern art show that utilized the unique space to showcase a light show. 
• Tivoli Gardens: This enchanting amusement park is a must-visit, especially during the holiday seasons. Enjoy rides, shows, and delicious food. Tivoli Gardens is a magical place, with its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and festive atmosphere. Visit after dark for a livelier atmosphere that’s more teenagers and adults and fewer kids. Note that you have to pay for admission as well as any rides you want to enjoy. 
• CopenHot: Relax in a floating sauna or hot tub, taking in the stunning views of the city. CopenHot offers a unique and luxurious way to unwind and enjoy the city’s waterfront.
• National Museum of Denmark: Explore the rich history of Denmark through its impressive collection of artifacts. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the Stone Age to the modern era.
• Botanical Garden: Wander through the beautiful gardens and greenhouses, home to a diverse range of plant species. The Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, offering a chance to escape the hustle and bustle.
• Nyhavn Canal Tour: Take a boat tour through the picturesque canals of Nyhavn, learning about the city’s history and culture. A canal tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its maritime history.
• Rosenborg Castle: Admire the stunning architecture and explore the royal collections, including the Danish Crown Jewels. The castle’s opulent interiors, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history make it a worthwhile thing to do. 
• Carlsberg Brewery: Learn about the history of Carlsberg beer and sample some of their finest brews. The brewery offers guided tours, beer tastings, and a chance to learn about the brewing process.
• Take a Day trip to Malmö: Although there are plenty of fun things to do in Copenhagen, if you want to add another stamp to your passport (although not literally, because you won’t have to go through border control to enter Sweden from Copenhagen), you can take a quick train ride over to Malmö, Sweden. This charming costal city is approximately 40 minutes by train from Copenhagen and makes a great day trip. (Just make sure you bring your passport in case there are random checks at the border.) Trains run between the two cities approximately every hour. We took a late morning train, got lunch at the Malmö Saluhall food hall, walked around the waterfront, got a drink in the square, and caught the train back to Copenhagen for dinner. 

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

I stayed at the Villa Copenhagen, a beautiful hotel that’s right next to Copenhagen’s main train station and has a rooftop pool overlooking Tivoli Gardens. This luxurious but affordable property is a perfect base from which to explore the city. 

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