Copenhagen: 20 Best Things to Do and Places to See

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern design, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Known for its charming canals, iconic landmarks, and rich history, this city seamlessly blends the old with the new.

Whether you're strolling through the picturesque Nyhavn district or marveling at the world-renowned Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen never fails to impress. As a city that prioritizes sustainability and innovation, it’s no surprise that Copenhagen is frequently ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities. With its well-preserved medieval buildings, cutting-edge architecture, and culinary delights—such as those offered at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Noma—there’s something here for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do and places to see in Copenhagen. From the majestic Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family, to the world-class National Museum of Denmark, you'll uncover both the city’s historic charm and modern appeal.

Copenhagen is also a city built for pedestrians and cyclists, so exploring on foot or by bike is a fantastic way to experience its unique atmosphere. With its thriving arts scene, cozy cafes, and bustling markets like Torvehallerne, there’s always something to explore. Let’s dive into the top must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.

What to see and do in Copenhagen

It is the capital of “hygge”, a word as untranslatable as the city itself. Copenhagen is an intimate atmosphere, pastel-coloured houses and a delicate, warm light. It is its little mermaid and its canals, it is design and alternative neighbourhoods. Now, take out your notebook and take note, it is time to walk around the city.

what to do in copenhagen

Let's get on with the things to see in Copenhagen ... but first, a little bit of its history.

Copenhagen is what happens when Viking raiders decide to become civilized… sort of. Founded in the 10th century by the Danes, it started out as a modest fishing village that eventually grew into a bustling port city . Its name, København, means “ Merchant’s Harbor ,” because nothing screams medieval prosperity like taxing everyone who ships through.

In the 15th century, Copenhagen became the capital of Denmark and quickly learned that being important came with its drawbacks: fires, plagues, and the occasional Swedish invasion .

Copenhagen is now famous for its fairytale architecture, its addiction to bicycles and its unwavering love for hygge , a Danish concept that basically means “having a good time without looking like you’re having too much fun” 😉

Now we really go out to explore Copenhagen:

1. Free tour

There's nothing better than breaking the ice with the city by taking part in a free tour , which will take you through the historic centre. It lasts 2.5 hours and although it's free, remember to leave a tip. You can book it here .

2. Nyhavn, the most beautiful place to see in Copenhagen

Head to Nyhavn , the famous canal surrounded by colorful houses. It’s an extremely beautiful place (and if you want to be a bit geeky, do it while listening to the song “Copenhagen” by Vetusta Morla). This area is full of typical bars and clubs, so if you fancy a beer (and don’t mind shelling out some money)… this is your place!

3. Tivoli Gardens

We couldn't go there, because when we went (in February) it was closed. But if you go to Copenhagen between April and September you have to go to Tivoli Gardens , a super vintage amusement park opened in 1843.

→ Entry is free with the Copenhagen Card, otherwise it costs 155 DKK (about 20€), although the attractions are paid for separately. It is also open in November/December, when a very nice Christmas market is set up. Tip: if you want to enter Tivoli Park and ride as many times as you want, this all-inclusive ticket may be worth it (35€).

4. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is another must-see. The former royal summer residence of Christian IV of Denmark is very charming. Today, this castle houses a museum about the Danish monarchy. Personally, we think that seeing it from the outside is enough, but if you fancy going inside, it costs around €17 (included in the Copenhagen Card).

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5. The King's Garden

Opposite the castle is The King's Garden , a pleasant garden (nice if it's not winter, believe us hehe). You can take advantage of it to have a picnic (yes, we always think about eating) or simply relax before continuing with more things to see and do in Copenhagen.

Don't forget to visit the famous sculpture of Hans Christian Andersen in the center of the park.

what to see and do in copenhagen

6. Amalienborg Palace

And where do the kings live in winter? At Amalienborg Palace, another wonder to see in Copenhagen. Every day you can attend the changing of the guard, which begins its march from its barracks, passing by Rosenborg Castle and through the streets of the city, until it ends at Amalienborg at 12:00.

7. Frederiksborg Castle

Are you a huge fan of castles and still want more? Take advantage of the fact that you are here to see the largest castle in all of Scandinavia: Frederiksborg Castle . It is located in Hillerød, about 40 km north of Copenhagen. (Entrance included in the Copenhagen Card).

If you prefer to go on a tour we recommend you take a look at this one.

8. Dyrehaven

And on the way, head to Dyrehaven , a forest full of deer with a surprise in store. Right next door you can enjoy the oldest amusement park in the world: Bakken , which began operating in 1583. Go figure! Admission is free, although if you want to go on the rides you have to pay. More info .

9. Boat ride, one of the best things to do in Copenhagen

If you want to have a different perspective of the city, a good idea is to take a boat ride along its canals . This costs only €18 (lasts 1 hour). It is also included in the Copenhagen Card.

10. Christiania, the most alternative and original plan

But for a truly different experience, head to Christiania , Copenhagen's most alternative neighbourhood, full of street art and with a street name that says it all: Pusher Street . Yes, buying and smoking marijuana is legal here. We went on our own, we had read somewhere that it wasn't entirely safe but there are no problems (just use common sense and don't take selfies with the camels XD).

→ Although a good alternative is to sign up for a free tour like this one.

*Tired? Well, we still have 10 things to see and do in Copenhagen!*

11. Refugee Island

If the weather is nice and you're already hungry, we recommend heading from Christania to the island of Refshaleøen , a former industrial area where one of the largest shipyards in the world (B&W) operated until it closed in 1996. Today it has been converted into a diverse area, with offices of small innovative companies, restaurants, cafes and an interesting cultural scene. But the best thing to do is to stop by Reffen Copenhagen Street Food , a street food market and fill your stomach!

Do you only have one day to visit Copenhagen? Ideally, you should split your visit into 2-3 days, but no problem: a great idea is to take the Copenhagen hop-on hop-off bus tour , which will save you a lot of time and allow you to see the main sights.

12. Strøget

Strøget is the longest shopping street in Europe, with approximately 1.1 kilometres of shops, cafés and restaurants stretching from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv Square.

Not only is it ideal for shopping lovers , but it also offers a tour full of Danish history and architecture . Here you will find everything from luxury boutiques such as Louis Vuitton , Prada and Gucci to more affordable stores such as H&M, Zara and the popular Danish chains Flying Tiger and Søstrene Grene.

Plus, it's the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or a Danish hot dog while watching the street performers and the hustle and bustle of Copenhagen city life.

Things to do

13. Christiansborg Palace

At Christiansborg Palace you can visit the Danish Parliament (free 45-minute tour in English, book online here ) and several royal rooms and chambers. You can also climb its tower , the tallest in the city at 106 metres. Entry to all rooms in the palace costs 175 DKK. But climbing the tower is free! It is closed on Mondays, though. More info here .

14. Marble Church, something original to see in Copenhagen

The Marble Church (Frederiks Kirke) is a Copenhagen gem, with a gigantic green dome reminiscent of St. Peter's in the Vatican, but with much less tourist traffic.

The interior is elegant and serene, with marble columns and gold details. Admission is free , but if you climb the dome (for a few crowns), you get one of the best views of the city. It's next to Amalienborg Palace, so you can see it on your way to spy on the royals.

15. Round Tower

A good panoramic view of the city can be enjoyed from the top of the Rundetårn (Round Tower) in the historic centre. The entrance ticket costs around €5. Did you know that it is considered one of the oldest observatories and planetariums in Europe?

what to do in copenhagen — *What to see and do in Copenhagen – Backpacking around the world*

16. Nyboder

Take a stroll through Nyboder , a neighbourhood full of yellow houses with a curious past: members of the Navy and their families lived here. Fun fact: you may have heard of it if you've seen the film "The Danish Girl".

17. Statue of the Little Mermaid, the symbol of Copenhagen

A visit to Copenhagen is not complete without visiting its most famous character: the statue of the Little Mermaid (inspired by the tale by Hans Christian Andersen). It is smaller than we imagined, but it is beautiful, right next to the sea.

We went walking, the walk is nice although since it was February we were freezing cold XD

18. Boel House

And speaking of the most famous and universal Danish writer… did you know that he lived at number 20 Nyhavn? It is called Boel House , a very charming little red house.

19. Try Danish cuisine

Ok, Danish gastronomy is neither as famous nor as delicious as Spanish or Italian cuisine (objectively speaking...), but that doesn't mean it's not worth exploring.

Strong flavours, fish and, surprisingly, rye bread in all its forms dominate here. Start with a good smørrebrød , the classic toast of black bread with butter and all kinds of toppings: marinated herring, roast beef, eggs with shrimps… There are combinations for all tastes.

If you prefer something hot, try a frikadeller , a juicy and well-spiced pork meatball. For the more greedy, there is the stegt flæsk , crispy bacon with parsley sauce and potatoes. And of course, you can't leave without trying a good Danish hot dog , with crispy bread, elongated sausage and a mountain of fried onions.

For dessert, go for a wienerbrød , the Danish version of the croissant but with more butter and more happiness.

→ We give you these 10 restaurant options where you can eat well and cheaply in Copenhagen .

20. Excursion to Malmö

What do you say about crossing to Sweden ? Yes, yes: Malmö is located close to Copenhagen (no, it's not an Ikea piece of furniture). You can do it on your own (by train, bus or renting a car) or by booking this tour to Malmö from Copenhagen .

*What to see and do in Copenhagen – Backpacking around the world*

And here we come to the end… you have already discovered that Copenhagen is a city where bicycles rule, houses look like they are straight out of a fairy tale and people survive the winter with litres of coffee and an inexplicable devotion to salty liquorice . With corners full of imposing architecture , a clear obsession with design and happiness , Copenhagen is a place that surprises without making too much noise.

If you manage to get out without spending a fortune on food and beer, consider yourself a master of saving. And if not… well, at least you will have enjoyed the trip like a modern Viking, or so we hope.

These are 20 things to see and do in Copenhagen . Have you visited the city? What are your recommendations? We hope you enjoy your trip to Denmark and if you have any questions about Copenhagen, leave us a comment.

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