Top 10: Things to Do in Copenhagen

With strong Viking origins, Copenhagen has become one of the cities with the best quality of life in the world. Fancy experiencing some of this? Head to the capital of Denmark. With several palaces and castles, beautiful buildings, relaxing gardens, and serene canals, there are so many things to do in Copenhagen. We’ve prepared a list of the top 10 things to do during your trip to this Nordic city, for you to reference alongside our guide to Copenhagen.

With this Copenhagen Card-Discover, you’ll get entry tickets to the city’s best attractions as well as free public transport. It’s a must-have during your time in Copenhagen.

1. Have Fun at Tivoli Gardens

The first on our list of things to do in Copenhagen is a visit to Tivoli Gardens. Enter into a magical world and discover the second-oldest theme park in the world! Did you know that 4 million people visit it each year?

Book your Tivoli Gardens Ticket and marvel at the shining lights in the park, classic carousels, and beautiful gardens, creating a festive atmosphere all year round! It’s one of the most popular places to visit in the Danish Capital.

2. Walk along the Nyhavn Canal

An absolute must-see in Copenhagen is the Nyhavn Canal. Did you know that King Christian V ordered its construction to link Copenhagen to the sea? Take a stroll around the pedestrian cobbled streets, delight in a meal at one of the many fancy restaurants by the canal, or treat yourself to a crepe, hot dog or ice cream!

Explore this beautiful place with colorful houses on the waterfront on this Panoramic Tour of Copenhagen. Alternatively, take this canal cruise which goes past the Nyhavn Canal, as well as many other fascinating sites on the waterfront. You’ll fall in love with this charming yet bustling area.

3. Spot The Little Mermaid

A true symbol of Denmark and its capital, the Little Mermaid is probably Copenhagen’s most famous monument. On this Copenhagen Bike Tour, you’ll pass this world-renowned statue, created in homage to the main character from the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale.

Did you know that the statue has been decapitated twice? Find out more fun facts on this Little Mermaid and Port of Copenhagen Free Tour. You’ll be amazed by what you learn!

4. Stroll around Christiania, The Free Town

If you’re looking for more unusual things to do in Copenhagen, then Christiania might be right up your street! This hippy neighborhood is given the name “The Free Town”. Starting as a military base in 1971, it’s also famous for having had an illegal open trade of cannabis, which was only shut down by the police in April 2024.

Discover all about this and more on this Free Walking tour of Christianshavn. Learn all about its history and experience its unique atmosphere.

5. Visit Amalienborg Palace

The Danish monarchy is the oldest in the world and one of the most important in Europe. Composed of 4 buildings around a central statue in a square, it’s the official residence of the Danish Royal Family. It took 10 years to build and was finalized in 1760. Directly opposite the Opera House on the waterfront and close to Kastellet Fort, it’s a great place to add to your list of things to do in Copenhagen!

If you wake up early, you’ll get the chance to see the changing of the guard! Why not enjoy a guided tour of Amalienborg Palace and explore the inside of this incredible royal residence?

6. Taste Smørrebrød (and More Danish Cuisine)

Another must-do activity in Copenhagen is to walk around its neighborhoods and try the fantastic Danish delicacies. If you want tasty bakeries and warm cafes, we recommend the neighborhood of Nørrebro. This would be the perfect place to try Smørrebrød, a piece of buttered rye bread, with cold cuts of meat or fish on top! For those with more of a sweet tooth wienerbrød, or in English, “Danish Pastries”, are the perfect sweet treat to accompany a coffee.

If you’re looking for more of a substantial meal, head down to the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen). This area used to be home to many factories involved in meat production. Keeping the old white and blue factories buildings, today it’s a thriving revitalized area, with a huge variety of eateries, from burgers and taco joints to ice cream parlors and fish restaurants. There’s something for everyone here!

7. Explore the Grounds of Rosenborg Castle

A beautiful example of Renaissance architecture in Copenhagen, the Rosenborg Castle was built at the beginning of the 17th century by King Christian IV. Today, it boasts a fascinating museum of incredible Royal treasures. It’s certainly an interesting thing to do in Copenhagen.

On this Rosenborg Castle Guided Tour, you’ll explore the elaborately decorated rooms and stroll around its stunning gardens. Discover the history and charm of this iconic castle belonging to the Danish monarchy.

8. Discover Frederiksborg Castle

If castles and history are your thing, then a day trip to Frederiksborg should definitely be on your list of things to do in Copenhagen. Did you know that it’s the largest Renaissance residence in Scandinavia?

Just 40 km (25 miles) from the Danish Capital in the town of Hillerød, Frederiksborg is a huge palace surrounded by an old moat. Stroll along its huge corridors with marble tiles and gold decorations on the ceiling and walls.

Outside, you can relax in its incredible gardens, with bushes and trees sculpted immaculately. Book your Frederiksborg Castle Day Trip from Copenhagen now!

9. Take a Dip in the Sea

If you’re in Copenhagen in the summer months, an absolute must-do is to go swimming in the sea. All around the city, there are free pools that have been cornered off from the rivers and sea to create safe open water swimming facilities for tourists and residents alike.

There’s nothing better than taking a refreshing dip in the clean salty water, whether it’s first thing in the morning to start your day right, or in the afternoon after a day of exploring the city. So don’t forget to bring your swimming costume with you on your trip! If you’re traveling to the Danish capital in the winter, do as the locals do and head to the traditional saunas.

10. Enjoy a Day Trip to Malmö

Due to its location just across the water from Malmö, if you’re staying in Copenhagen for more than a weekend, we highly recommend taking a day trip across the border into Sweden.

Discover Malmö, the Swedish city that has hosted the Eurovision Song Contest 3 times, the most recent being in May 2024. Did you know that Lund is the second oldest city in Sweden? Explore these two historical Swedish cities on this Malmö and Lund Day Trip from Copenhagen.

Similarly, uncover both of these Swedish cities as well as the Danish town of Helsingør on this Hamlet and Sweden Tour. Learn all about the great wealth of history in these two fantastic Scandinavian countries.

Copenhagen is a truly incredible holiday destination, home to a fabulous mixture of history, culture, food, and Nordic charm. From the picturesque streets of the Nyhavn to the fascinating history of the Rosenborg Castle, there are certainly plenty of things to do in Copenhagen.

If you’re stuck for time, we highly recommend this Free Walking Tour of Copenhagen to get a good feel for the city and see the main points of interest. Alternatively, this Tourist Bus is the perfect option for families with small kids to be able to discover Copenhagen from the comfort of a bus. If you’re interested in finding out more about the city’s architecture, cuisine, and culture, check out what other activities and experiences we offer in Copenhagen.