Travel Guide Copenhagen Denmark – Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a city that marries history with modernity, offering a multitude of attractions that range from historic landmarks to contemporary spaces. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, foodie, or family traveler, Copenhagen has something special for you.
Must Visit Attractions in Copenhagen
- Tivoli Gardens
One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli delights visitors with its classic architecture, historical rides, and beautiful gardens. Beyond the rides, Tivoli offers a range of musical performances and seasonal festivals.
Tivoli Gardens Website - The Little Mermaid Statue
Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, this iconic bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen is a symbol of Danish heritage and a global tourist attraction, embodying the melancholic spirit of the character.
The Little Mermaid - Nyhavn
Once a busy commercial port, now lined with brightly colored townhouses and historical wooden ships, Nyhavn is the perfect place to savor a Danish meal or enjoy a cold drink at the waterfront.
Nyhavn - Rosenborg Castle
Built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century, this renaissance castle houses the Crown Jewels and the Danish Crown Regalia, surrounded by the beautiful King’s Garden.
Rosenborg Castle - Amalienborg Palace
The home of the Danish royal family consists of four identical palaces around an octagonal courtyard. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard daily and visit the museum inside one of the palaces.
Amalienborg Palace - Strøget
One of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, famous for its shops ranging from budget-friendly chains to some of the world’s most luxurious brands.
Strøget - Christiansborg Palace
Located on the islet of Slotsholmen, this palace is the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court of Denmark, featuring stunningly decorated interiors and tapestries.
Christiansborg Palace - National Museum of Denmark
This leading museum showcases Danish history and culture, with exhibits ranging from the Stone Age, through the Viking Age, to modern Danish history.
National Museum of Denmark - The Round Tower
An architectural project of Christian IV, this 17th-century tower is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe, offering panoramic views of the old part of Copenhagen.
The Round Tower - Christiania
Known for its alternative lifestyle, Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous district, famous for its artistic environment, colorful murals, and open cannabis trade, though the latter is officially illegal.
Christiania - Frederik’s Church (The Marble Church)
With its impressive dome, one of the largest in Europe, Frederik’s Church stands as a major architectural landmark and is a popular venue for concerts due to its outstanding acoustics.
Frederik’s Church - Copenhagen Zoo
Founded in 1859, the zoo is one of Europe’s oldest animal parks and is home to over 4,000 animals from various parts of the world, focusing on conservation and animal welfare.
Copenhagen Zoo - Danish National Gallery (SMK)
This gallery houses Denmark’s largest collection of art, spanning seven centuries, with a focus on Danish and Nordic art, though international works are also featured.
Danish National Gallery - Copenhagen Opera House
One of the most modern and expensive opera houses in the world, the Opera House is located on the island of Holmen and is known for its state-of-the-art acoustics and stunning architectural design.
Copenhagen Opera House - King’s Garden
The oldest park in Copenhagen and a popular recreational spot for both tourists and locals, it features landscaped gardens, statues, and a castle.
King’s Garden - Botanical Gardens
Part of the University of Copenhagen, these gardens house a large collection of living plants in addition to the old Palm House and several historical glasshouses dating back to the 19th century.
Botanical Gardens - National Aquarium Denmark, Den Blå Planet
Northern Europe’s largest aquarium offers a dive into oceanic life from around the world, featuring thousands of animals and marine species.
National Aquarium Denmark - Experimentarium
A hands-on science museum that encourages visitors to engage with science and technology through interactive exhibits.
Experimentarium - Carlsberg Brewery
Discover the history of one of the world’s best-known breweries at the Carlsberg Visitors Centre, where you can learn about the beer-making process and taste various types of Carlsberg.
Carlsberg Visitors Centre - City Hall Square
The focal point of Copenhagen’s municipal activities, the square is dominated by the City Hall building, which combines the architectural styles of Danish National Romanticism, classical medieval city halls, and modernism.
City Hall Square - Museum of Copenhagen
Recently reopened, the museum offers innovative exhibits that interpret the complex city history of Copenhagen.
Museum of Copenhagen - Cisternerne
An underground museum located beneath Søndermarken Park, originally used as a reservoir, now hosts exhibitions related to modern glass art.
Cisternerne - Copenhagen Contemporary
An international arts center showcasing large-scale installations by world-renowned artists.
Copenhagen Contemporary - Kronborg Castle
Known globally as “Elsinore,” the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, this 16th-century castle is located in Helsingør, just outside Copenhagen.
Kronborg Castle - Viking Ship Museum
Located in Roskilde, a short train ride from Copenhagen, this museum displays ancient Viking ships and offers sailing trips in the fjord.
Viking Ship Museum - Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Combining art with stunning coastal views, Louisiana is renowned for its collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as its picturesque location overlooking the Øresund Strait.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art - Freetown Christiania
This unique community is known for its autonomous status and alternative lifestyle, attracting visitors with its artwork, music, and distinct architectural environment.
Freetown Christiania - DR Koncerthuset
Designed by Jean Nouvel, this concert hall is a centerpiece of Copenhagen’s cultural scene, hosting a wide range of music from classical to contemporary.
DR Koncerthuset - The Blue Planet (National Aquarium Denmark)
The largest aquarium in Northern Europe provides a fascinating insight into aquatic life, featuring species from local and global waters.
The Blue Planet - The Thorvaldsen Museum
Dedicated to the works of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, the museum houses the largest collection of his sculptures, including works he created while living in Rome.
Thorvaldsen Museum – Travel Guide Copenhagen Denmark
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Why Visit Copenhagen?
Cultural Vibrancy: Copenhagen’s cultural offerings are vast and varied, featuring a rich theater scene, numerous museums, and year-round music festivals.
Architectural Splendor: The city’s architecture is an eclectic mix of old-world charm and ultra-modern design, making it a paradise for architecture enthusiasts.
Culinary Delights: With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Copenhagen’s culinary scene is at the forefront of the New Nordic cuisine movement, boasting multiple Michelin-starred restaurants.
Green Living: Known as one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world, Copenhagen offers a high-quality life with its bike-friendly streets, green spaces, and focus on clean technology.
Hotels in Copenhagen
Each with a unique appeal and a link to their respective websites for more information and booking options.
1. Hotel d’Angleterre
The iconic Hotel d’Angleterre is the epitome of luxury in Copenhagen. Established in 1755, this historic hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries. Its rooms blend classic elegance with modern amenities, and the hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, Marchal. Situated on the King’s New Square, it offers guests a prime location with stunning views of the Royal Danish Theatre and the bustling city center.
Hotel d’Angleterre
2. Nimb Hotel
Located in the heart of Tivoli Gardens, Nimb Hotel offers a unique experience with its opulent Moorish-inspired interiors and direct access to the gardens. This boutique hotel features individually decorated rooms and suites, many with views of Tivoli. The hotel also boasts several dining options and a comprehensive wine list curated by its sommeliers.
Nimb Hotel
3. Copenhagen Admiral Hotel
Set in a renovated 18th-century warehouse by the Copenhagen harbor front, the Admiral Hotel combines rustic charm with a sense of Danish history. Its exposed wooden beams and brick walls contrast with modern Scandinavian furniture, creating a unique aesthetic. The hotel is close to major attractions like Amalienborg Palace and the Opera House.
Copenhagen Admiral Hotel
4. Andersen Boutique Hotel
This vibrant boutique hotel in the trendy Vesterbro district stands out for its colorful design and exceptional service. The Andersen conducts a concept called “Concept24,” which allows guests to keep their room for 24 hours, no matter what time they check in. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a stylish yet comfortable base.
Andersen Boutique Hotel
5. 71 Nyhavn Hotel
Perfectly located in the scenic Nyhavn district, 71 Nyhavn Hotel is housed in two converted warehouses on the waterfront. The hotel has preserved many original features, providing a cozy, maritime feel. Guests can enjoy a high-quality breakfast and easy access to Copenhagen’s best dining and shopping areas.
71 Nyhavn Hotel
6. Skt. Petri
Skt. Petri offers a chic and contemporary setting in the Latin Quarter of Copenhagen. This stylish hotel is known for its minimalist design and attentive service. With a central location, it’s ideal for those who want to explore the city on foot. The hotel also features a restaurant that focuses on Scandinavian cuisine with a global twist.
Skt. Petri
7. Hotel SP34
An elegant hotel located in Copenhagen’s bohemian Latin Quarter, Hotel SP34 caters to style-conscious travelers. It offers a boutique cinema, several popular restaurants, and bars on the premises. The rooms are tastefully designed with an emphasis on comfort and style.
Hotel SP34
8. Manon Les Suites
Part of the Guldsmeden Hotels, Manon Les Suites is at the forefront of eco-friendly luxury. This unique hotel features a stunning indoor pool and lush greenhouse-like atrium that gives it a tropical vibe, right in the center of the city. It’s a great choice for travelers interested in sustainable tourism.
Manon Les Suites
9. The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel
Designed by the famous Danish architect Arne Jacobsen, this is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic hotels. Originally opened in 1960, the hotel retains many of the original designs, including the famous Swan and Egg chairs. It offers modern luxury and panoramic views of the city.
The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel
10. Babette Guldsmeden
Another hotel from the Guldsmeden chain, Babette Guldsmeden is located near historic sites such as the Kastellet and the Little Mermaid statue. Known for its bohemian luxury, this hotel combines sustainable practices with a casual, stylish atmosphere. It also features a wonderful organic breakfast buffet.
Babette Guldsmeden – Travel Guide Copenhagen Denmark
Copenhagen Nightlife
Copenhagen is celebrated for its vibrant nightlife, which includes an eclectic mix of bars, clubs, live music venues, and late-night cafes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub, a bustling club, or a refined cocktail lounge, Copenhagen offers a dynamic nightlife scene that caters to all tastes.
1. Chateau Motel
Chateau Motel is Copenhagen’s largest nightclub, spread over four floors with each floor offering a different musical experience. From electronic beats and hip-hop to pop classics, this club provides a varied nightlife experience, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
Chateau Motel
2. Ruby
Located in an old townhouse in central Copenhagen, Ruby is renowned for its innovative cocktails and stylish interiors. This cocktail bar has a reputation for quality and creativity, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Ruby
3. Culture Box
As Denmark’s leading electronic music venue, Culture Box attracts world-class DJs and electronic acts from around the globe. This venue is a cornerstone of the Copenhagen nightlife scene, known for its intimate atmosphere and quality sound systems.
Culture Box
4. Bakken Kbh
Situated in the trendy Meatpacking District, Bakken Kbh is a popular bar that transforms into a lively club on weekends. Known for its casual, unpretentious vibe, it’s a great place to enjoy drinks with friends and dance the night away to the tunes of local DJs.
Bakken Kbh
5. Vega
An internationally acclaimed concert venue, Vega hosts a wide range of music performances, from rock and pop to electronic and jazz. Vega is not only a concert venue but also a nightclub where guests can enjoy late-night events in a stylish setting.
Vega
6. The Jane
The Jane is a bar and nightclub located in a basement in central Copenhagen. It’s famed for its chic decor and exclusive atmosphere, offering a mix of cocktail bar and nightclub with frequent DJ performances.
The Jane
7. Jolene Bar
Jolene Bar, also in the Meatpacking District, originally started in Nørrebro before moving to its current location. It has a raw, eclectic vibe and is known for its lively atmosphere and music spun by some of the city’s best DJs.
Jolene Bar
8. Hive
Hive is a nightclub that promises an upscale clubbing experience with its sophisticated decor and a music policy that includes house, dance, and R&B. It attracts a stylish crowd and offers table service for those looking for a more exclusive night out.
Hive
9. Simone’s
Simone’s is a relatively new addition to Copenhagen’s bar scene, but it has quickly made a name for itself with its stylish interior and an extensive selection of cocktails. This place has a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for evening drinks and conversations.
Simone’s
10. Madam Chu’s
This bar brings a touch of the Orient to Copenhagen with its Asian-inspired decor and cocktails. Madam Chu’s offers a cozy yet exotic setting where you can enjoy creative drinks and an ambient atmosphere.
Madam Chu’s
These nightlife spots in Copenhagen offer a glimpse into the city’s diverse entertainment options, catering to different musical tastes and atmospheres. From the thumping beats of electronic music clubs to the sophisticated allure of high-end cocktail bars, Copenhagen’s nightlife is sure to provide memorable experiences for all visitors.
Public transport in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is renowned for its efficient and extensive public transportation system, which makes it easy for both locals and tourists to navigate the city and surrounding areas. The network includes buses, trains, a metro system, and even ferries, all integrated into a comprehensive system managed by Movia and the Danish State Railways (DSB).
Metro
The Copenhagen Metro operates 24 hours a day, with services running every 2-4 minutes during peak hours and every 15-20 minutes at night. It includes four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) that connect the city center with several suburbs and key points such as Copenhagen Airport, the new district of Nordhavn, and the Bella Center. The M3 line, known as the City Circle Line, is particularly useful for tourists as it loops around the city center, providing easy access to many of Copenhagen’s main attractions.
S-Trains
The S-train network is ideal for traveling longer distances within and around the outskirts of Copenhagen. These trains connect the city center with the suburbs and are especially handy for reaching areas like Hillerød and other towns within the Greater Copenhagen area. The S-trains are frequent, with departures every 10 minutes during peak hours.
Buses
Buses in Copenhagen cover areas not serviced by the metro and S-trains. They are frequent and reliable, with several lines operating 24/7. Night buses are available, recognizable by their gray color and the letter “N” preceding the bus number.
Regional Trains
For travel beyond the immediate Copenhagen area, regional and intercity trains provide connections across Denmark and to international destinations such as Sweden and Germany. These trains are a good option for visiting other Danish cities like Aarhus and Odense or for international travel to cities like Malmö and Hamburg.
Ferries
Copenhagen also has a system of harbor ferries, known as the harbor bus, which can be a scenic and practical way to get around. These ferries are integrated into the city’s public transport system, so tickets and travel passes for buses, trains, and the metro are also valid on the ferries.
Bicycles
Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bicycle-friendly cities. The city offers extensive dedicated cycling lanes, and many Copenhageners prefer cycling over other forms of transport. Visitors can rent bikes from numerous outlets or use the city’s bike-share program to explore like a local.
Tickets and Travel Cards
Public transportation in Copenhagen operates on a zone system, with tickets available for single journeys, or you can use a contactless payment method such as a credit card. For tourists, the Copenhagen Card offers great value, providing unlimited public transport throughout the region along with free admission to many museums and attractions.
Accessibility
The public transport system is designed to be accessible, with most metro stations, trains, and newer buses equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
Overall, Copenhagen’s public transport is known for its efficiency and coverage, making it an excellent option for visitors to explore the city and the wider region comfortably and conveniently.
Copenhagen shopping guide
Copenhagen is a haven for shoppers, blending traditional Danish design with modern trends across a variety of shopping districts and markets.
Iconic Shopping Streets
Strøget
One of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, Strøget is the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping scene. Stretching from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv, this bustling street is lined with a mix of high-street shops, international brands, and luxury boutiques. Here you’ll find everything from H&M and Zara to upscale brands like Prada and Louis Vuitton.
Location: Strøget, Copenhagen
Købmagergade
A continuation of Strøget, Købmagergade features more shopping options, including the flagship store of the Danish porcelain brand, Royal Copenhagen, and the popular bookstore, Arnold Busck. Don’t miss visiting the Round Tower, located right on this street for a historical interlude.
Location: Købmagergade, Copenhagen
Designer Boutiques and Danish Design
Illums Bolighus
Located on Amagertorv in central Copenhagen, Illums Bolighus is not just a store but an institution in Danish design, offering everything from furniture to smaller household items crafted by renowned Danish designers.
Website: Illums Bolighus
Hay House
Visit Hay House in the city center for modern Danish furniture and home accessories that are both beautiful and functional. This is the place to find unique gifts or items to enhance your home décor.
Website: Hay House
Trendy and Bohemian Areas
Vesterbro
Once the city’s meatpacking district, Vesterbro is now one of Copenhagen’s trendiest neighborhoods, featuring a vibrant mix of small designer shops, eclectic boutiques, and hip bars and restaurants.
Location: Vesterbro, Copenhagen
Jægersborggade
This street in the Nørrebro area is a compact but vibrant shopping destination where you can find everything from organic produce and designer ceramics to handmade jewelry and art galleries. It’s a great spot to discover items from up-and-coming Danish designers.
Location: Jægersborggade, Copenhagen
Specialized Markets and Unique Finds
Torvehallerne
Not just for food shopping, Torvehallerne is Copenhagen’s premier market with over 60 stands selling everything from fresh fish and gourmet chocolate to spices and organic fruits. It’s also a great place to sample local Danish foods or enjoy a coffee break.
Website: Torvehallerne
Greenlandic House
For something uniquely Danish but with an exotic twist, visit the Greenlandic House where you can buy products made in Greenland, including arts and crafts, clothing, and even food items.
Website: Greenlandic House
Vintage and Second-hand Shops
Episode
Located near Strøget, Episode is one of the best places to find vintage clothing in Copenhagen. It offers a wide selection of styles from different decades, making it a paradise for fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters.
Location: Episode, Copenhagen
Luxury Shopping
Frederiksberg Centret
For a more upscale shopping experience, head to Frederiksberg Centret, which offers a variety of shops in a less crowded environment than the city center. The mall is known for its quality shopping and good selection of both Danish and international brands.
Website: Frederiksberg Centret
Whether you’re into high-end fashion, Danish design, vintage finds, or local crafts, Copenhagen’s shopping scene is sure to delight you with its quality and diversity. Happy shopping!
Welcoming Atmosphere
Copenhagen is known for its friendly and open populace. The city’s atmosphere is laid-back and inclusive, making it easy for visitors to feel at home. English is widely spoken, facilitating easy interactions and enhancing the travel experience.
These reasons illustrate why Copenhagen is not just a place to visit but a place to experience deeply, offering insights into Danish culture, history, and modern day life. Whether you’re looking for artistic inspiration, culinary delights, or a glimpse into sustainable city planning, Copenhagen is a destination that delivers on all fronts.