Top Things to Do in Copenhagen: The Heart of Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital and one of the most popular cities of Denmark famous for its culture, history, and people. The city remained one of the essential parts of the Baltic Sea for centuries, and today, it contains several monuments dating back to history. When you visit Copenhagen, you are surely not going to get bored. Despite its small size, it offers its visitors an unlimited number of things to do and see. From museums to parks to palaces to cute cafes, there is a lot to see and do in this city. See below for the 8 best things to do in Copenhagen:

1. Stroll along the Nyhavn Canal

While you’re in Copenhagen, one thing you can’t miss is taking a walk on the Nyhavn. The Nyhavn or “New Port” is the most famous canal and one of the most beautiful places to see in Copenhagen. Built in the 17th century as an entrance into the city by sea for merchants who came to do business, for many years, it was inhabited by prostitutes and sailors. But today, it is frequented at all times by tourists who are fascinated with the colourful facades and the wooden boats docked on both banks.

You can visit Nyhavn in the day or night when the atmosphere on the terraces of cafes and restaurants is incredible. Don’t forget to get into a boat to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city.

2. The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid sculpture, based on a story by Hans Christian Andersen, is the icon and one of the most popular places to visit in Copenhagen. Created by Eriksenin the early 20th century commissioned by the Jacobsen, the family that owns the Carlsberg brewery, this bronze sculpture that is only 1 meter high, was donated to the city and placed on a rock near the port.

Despite suffering several acts of destruction, such as the amputation of an arm or the throwing of paint on it. The Little Mermaid continues to be the most visited monument in Denmark, making it an essential part of the city. We recommend visiting it first thing in the day if you want to take a picture without the crowds surrounding it.

After visiting the Little Mermaid, do not miss the fortress of Kastellet, one of the best-preserved in Europe, the fountain of Gefion and the beautiful Church of St. Alban, all located very close to it.

3. Tour the Amalienborg Palace

You can begin your tour of Copenhagen by visiting the Royal Residence Amalienborg Palace. The palace is a must-visit for those who want to witness how the Danish royal family lives there. The palace also features one of the oldest monarchies of the world in the square where changing of guards ceremony happens. You can also visit the museum and experience the old and new royal life. Get the Copenhagen Card that will let you visit 80+ attractions as well as use public transportation for free.

4. Stroget

Touring Stroget, the longest pedestrian street in Europe, is one of the best things to do in Copenhagen. This street goes from Radhuspladsen square, which has the Town Hall and the sculpture of Hans Christian Andersen as primary elements, to Kongens Nytorv square, which is surrounded by historic buildings such as the Royal Theatre. While walking through Stroget, you will see a multitude of stores, including the LEGO store, the Royal Copenhagen porcelain store, and the Magasin du Nord shopping centre, as well as many others.

5. Tivoli Park

If you are travelling to Copenhagen with kids, you must visit the famous Tivoli Park. The park was designed by a French engineer Jean Blanchard in 1813 and created by joining the surrounding parks. The beautiful Tivoli park is over 100 years old. Here you can enjoy a picnic in very well-kept gardens, see several attractions, eat delicious local food in restaurants, witness fireworks, enjoy outdoor concerts and water shows of lights and colours at night. There is the iconic Jakopic Promenade, a popular outdoor gallery in the park that is famous for exhibitions. This landmark is opened throughout the year.

6. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle, an old 17th-century palace with an impressive garden, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Copenhagen. Built as a summer residence of Christian IV, the palace surrounded by a water moat stands out for its Renaissance style that, together with its beautiful garden, gives a fairytale castle look. You can visit the palace from inside by buying a ticket. Although the best views are from the outside and free to view.

Next to this castle is the magnificent botanical garden of Copenhagen, another place to take a stroll with your loved ones. Walk through this park to the edge of a lake where several glass greenhouses are located.

7. Bicycle Ride

Cycling is a great way to explore the city. Copenhagen has more than 400 kilometers (250 miles) of bicycle lanes. Bycyklen is the city’s low-cost bicycle program: its website has program details, rates, and a map of the bicycles available. Why not take a bike tour of Copenhagen.

8. Danish Foods and Drink

The “Nordic food revolution” began with Danish cuisine. If you enjoy delicious Danish food, you can visit one of 15 Michelin-starred restaurants in Copenhagen. Other than lavish restaurants, you can eat smorrebrod, the traditional open sandwich that is served at lunchtime. The beer bars in Copenhagen are pretty famous, and you can have some of the best when you are in the city. Be sure to visit the Torvehallerne market with its outdoor products market and stalls selling delicious local food. If you want to find out abut Danish food then why not take a food tour in Copenhagen.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a very accessible city. For the most part, most attractions and places of interest are within walking distance. In any case, there is also an excellent metro and bus network to get around the city.

Another option for sightseeing and getting to know the city is to take one of the canal tours, which regularly depart from Nyhavn and show you exciting places that you can enjoy from the boat and also witness the people of the city living their daily lives.

Recommended Tours in Copenhagen

Copenhagen City Card (including transportation) – Click here

1-Hour Canal Cruise from Ved Stranden or Nyhavn – Click here

Tivoli Gardens Fast-Track Ticket & Optional Rides – Click here

2.5-Hour Food Tour  – Click Here

Culinary Experience Tour – Click here

3-Hour Bike Tour – Click here 

3-Hour Alternative Tour (This includes Freetown Christiania) – Click here

Useful Links

For flights – Click here

For hotels – Click here or try www.hotels.com

For tours in Copenhagen go to Viator.com