Copenhagen is one of my favorite cities in the world, and after visiting every year to see our family friends, I’ve built the ultimate Copenhagen bucket list. From iconic sights to hidden gems, this list is packed with fun things to do in Copenhagen—whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.
There’s something magical about this city. Maybe it’s the way locals embrace hygge, biking everywhere, or diving into the harbor (yes, even in winter). Or maybe it’s the mix of historic castles, cutting-edge design, and world-class food. Whatever it is, Copenhagen always keeps me coming back.
If you’re planning a trip and want the best Copenhagen experiences, this guide has you covered. From sipping cocktails at a hidden speakeasy to exploring grand palaces, here are the top things to do in Denmark’s vibrant capital.
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25 Copenhagen Bucket List Experiences
1. Enjoy the Charm of Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens isn’t just an amusement park—it’s a fairytale and a must for your Copenhagen bucket list! Opened in 1843, it inspired Walt Disney and still wows visitors with its vintage rides, twinkling lights, and romantic gardens. Whether you’re here for a rollercoaster ride or just to soak in the atmosphere, Tivoli is pure magic and one of the best experiences in Copenhagen. At night, the park transforms into a wonderland of glowing lanterns and live music, making it one of the most fun things to do in Copenhagen year-round.
🎡 You can grab tickets in advance here to skip the ticketing line once you arrive!
2. Take a Photo at The Little Mermaid Statue
She’s small, but she’s iconic. Perched on a rock by the harbor since 1913, this statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous tale. It’s a bit touristy, but snapping a photo here is a Copenhagen must do for first-time visitors. For a quieter experience, go early in the morning or visit at sunset for beautiful golden-hour lighting.
3. Take a Walk Around Kastellet
A perfectly preserved star-shaped fortress dating back to the 1600s, Kastellet is a peaceful escape from the city. Stroll along its grassy ramparts, spot the historic windmill, and enjoy some of the best views of Copenhagen’s waterfront. The fortress is still an active military area, but it’s open to the public and offers a scenic walking route.
4. Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace
Every day at noon, the Royal Guard marches through the city to Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family. It’s a classic European royal tradition, best viewed from the square in front of the palace. If the Queen is in residence, the ceremony is even more elaborate, complete with a full military band.
5. Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens
A dreamy urban oasis, Copenhagen’s Botanical Gardens are home to over 13,000 plant species. The Palm House—a 19th-century glass conservatory—feels like stepping into another world. Climb the cast-iron spiral staircase for a bird’s-eye view of the lush, tropical plants. The gardens are especially stunning in spring and summer, but even in winter, the greenhouses offer a warm and peaceful retreat.
6. Explore Deer Park (Dyrehaven)
Just north of Copenhagen, Dyrehaven is a UNESCO-listed park where hundreds of deer roam freely. It’s stunning in every season—visit in autumn for golden foliage or in winter for a magical, frost-covered landscape. It’s a bit off the beaten path and such a hidden gem just outside of Copenhagen. The park is also home to Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park, which has been entertaining visitors since 1583.
7. Take a Swim in the Cool Harbor
Copenhagen’s harbor is so clean you can swim in it. Locals take a dip at Islands Brygge or Nordhavn in summer, but if you’re feeling brave, the harbor baths are open year-round. The water is brisk even in summer, but there’s nothing more refreshing than diving in on a warm day!
8. Picnic at Rosenborg Slot & King’s Garden
Rosenborg Castle is straight out of a fairy tale, surrounded by lush gardens. It’s one of my absolute favorite places and we go every time! Inside, you can tour the lavish interiors and see Denmark’s Crown Jewels, displayed in an underground vault. Get tickets in advance to avoid the lines!
Pack a picnic and enjoy the King’s Garden, Copenhagen’s oldest park, where locals lounge in the grass on sunny days.
9. Rent Bikes to Ride Like a Local
Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. Rent a bike and experience the city like a true Copenhagener—whether it’s cruising down the harbor or zipping through the historic streets of Indre By. The city’s cycling infrastructure is fantastic, with dedicated bike lanes and even bike-friendly bridges like the Circle Bridge.
Pro Tip: Download the Lime app to rent bikes easily from your phone. We always use this app and it seems to work better than others like Donkey Republic.
10. Take a Private Canal Cruise
Forget the crowded tour boats—rent a private GoBoat and explore Copenhagen’s canals at your own pace. Pack snacks, bring a bottle of wine, and enjoy a totally unique perspective of the city.
These electric-powered boats are easy to drive and let you see famous landmarks like Christianshavn and the Opera House from the water. We had so much fun cruising around the route!
You can also book a private guided tour to avoid the large touristy boats. This one looks amazing with a 4.8/5 stars based on thousands of reviews!
11. Check Out the Opera House
Sitting right on the harbor, Copenhagen’s Opera House is a modern architectural masterpiece. Even if you don’t catch a performance, it’s worth a visit just to admire its sleek design and waterfront views. The interior is just as impressive, with stunning acoustics and a ceiling adorned with 24-karat gold leaf.
12. Dine at Noma
Noma put Copenhagen on the global food map. With multiple Michelin stars and a spot on the “World’s Best Restaurants” list, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience—if you can score a reservation. Chef René Redzepi’s innovative, seasonal menus redefine Nordic cuisine, making it a culinary pilgrimage for food lovers.
13. Eat a Smørrebrød at Selma
Denmark’s famous open-faced sandwiches get a gourmet twist at Selma. This Michelin Bib Gourmand spot serves some of the best smørrebrød in the city, with fresh, seasonal toppings on dense Danish rye bread. We go every time for these amazing sandwiches—they’re that good! We love that they offer vegetarian and pescatarian options since we’re plant based.
It’s ideal for lunch, whether you sit inside the super hygge dining room with its pretty wallpaper or grab a seat outside on the sidewalk when the weather is nice. Pair your smørrebrød with a local beer for the full Danish experience. It’s a classic Copenhagen bucket list food to try and a must for your Copenhagen itinerary!
14. Try Street Food at Reffen
This massive outdoor food market is a must for foodies. Located on the water, Reffen is packed with global street food stalls, craft beer, and great harbor views. From organic Danish hot dogs to Louisiana Creole there’s something for everyone here.
15. Have Lunch at La Banchina
A tiny, laid-back spot on the harbor, La Banchina is all about simple, organic food. We make to sure to go every time we visit. It’s our absolute favorite thing on our Copenhagen to do list. It’s definitely more of a locals spot and more of a non touristy things to do in Copenhagen.
In summer, grab a seat on the dock or warm up in their wood-fired sauna before diving into the cool water. They focus on sustainability, and their fresh seafood dishes are some of the best in town. Plus, you have to try their organic wines – get a bottle and spend the day!
16. Grab a Bite in the Meatpacking District
Once home to Copenhagen’s butchers, the Meatpacking District is now a trendy food hub. You’ll find everything from gourmet burgers to Nordic fine dining, plus some of the city’s best bars. It’s a lively spot, especially on weekends.
17. Try a Danish and Pastries at Hart Bageri
Danish pastries are a must, and Hart Bageri is where to get them. Founded by a former Noma baker, this place serves the flakiest, most buttery croissants and kanelsnurrer (cinnamon twists) in town. They have locations all around town, but we’ve been to the one in the Meatpacking District.
18. Find Danish Specialties at Torvehallerne
This upscale food market is a dream for food lovers. Grab a fresh-baked sourdough, local cheese, or a traditional Danish porridge bowl or acai bowl from Grød. It’s also a great place to pick up gourmet souvenirs.
19. Have a Beer in Nyhavn
The colorful harbor of Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most famous sights. You have to go early in the morning to snap some good photos. But one of my favorite ways to enjoy it is to simply grab a cold Carlsberg or Tuborg at a spot along the canal, and soak up the atmosphere. It never gets old!
20. Drinks at Tata Cocktail Lounge
Hidden inside Hotel Sanders, Tata is one of Copenhagen’s best-kept cocktail secrets. The atmosphere is elegant yet cozy, with velvet chairs, dim lighting, and an intimate, speakeasy-like feel. Named after the red stage curtain at the Royal Danish Theatre, Tata’s cocktails are as artistic as they are delicious.
Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly balanced negroni or something more creative, this is the place for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap in a refined yet laid-back setting.
21. Have a Gin and Tonic
Danes have a thing for gin, and Copenhagen’s craft gin scene is thriving. Whether you prefer a classic juniper-forward G&T or something infused with local botanicals, you won’t be disappointed.
Order a beautifully crafted gin cocktail at Ruby, a stylish speakeasy inside an old townhouse, or head to The Barking Dog, a relaxed neighborhood bar known for its impressive gin selection. If you want to dive deeper, visit Copenhagen Distillery to taste some of Denmark’s best locally distilled gin.
22. Visit Frederiksborg Castle
Just outside Copenhagen in Hillerød, Frederiksborg Castle is Denmark’s most breathtaking Renaissance castle. Built in the early 1600s by King Christian IV, this grand estate sits on three small islands in a lake, making it look like something straight out of a fairy tale. Inside, you’ll find opulent royal rooms, intricate tapestries, and the stunning Marble Gallery, while outside, the baroque-style castle gardens offer a picture-perfect place to wander.
It’s also home to the Museum of National History, featuring centuries of Danish portraits and artifacts. If you have time for a half-day trip, this is one of the most incredible Copenhagen experiences.
23. Tour Christiansborg Palace
Once the royal residence, Christiansborg Palace is now home to Denmark’s Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s office—but it still has its fair share of royal grandeur and is one of Copenhagens top sights!
Visitors can tour the lavish reception rooms, see the throne room where Danish monarchs are crowned, and walk through the Great Hall, which houses the Queen’s Tapestries, a series of stunning artworks depicting Denmark’s history.
Don’t miss climbing the Christiansborg Tower, which offers one of the best panoramic views of Copenhagen, or visiting the royal stables, where you might spot the Queen’s horses if they’re in residence.
24. Climb the Round Tower
For one of the best views in Copenhagen, climb the Round Tower (Rundetaarn), a 17th-century observatory built by King Christian IV. Instead of stairs, it features a unique spiral ramp that winds its way to the top—designed so that the king could ride his horse up instead of walking. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city’s rooftops, the perfect spot for photos.
25. Shop on Strøget Street
Strøget is one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe, stretching through the heart of Copenhagen. It’s lined with everything from high-end designers like Gucci and Louis Vuitton to beloved Danish brands like GANNI and Georg Jensen. But even if you’re not shopping, it’s a fun place to wander, watch street performers, and grab an ice cream or coffee.
If you’re looking for more boutique, design-forward stores, take a detour down the smaller side streets like Kronprinsensgade for local Danish fashion and Læderstræde for home decor and specialty shops.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen
After visiting Denmark every year, we always stay at one of two hotels in Copenhagen —Hotel Sanders or Villa Copenhagen—depending on the type of trip we’re taking. Both are fantastic, but they offer completely different vibes.
Villa Copenhagen is perfect for families and couples who want a mix of luxury and convenience. Its location near Tivoli Gardens makes it ideal for exploring, and the rooftop pool is a huge bonus. Plus, the onsite bakery and lounge are some of the best spots to start or end your day.
For a more intimate, romantic stay, Hotel Sanders is unbeatable. This boutique hotel is pure hygge, with warm lighting, cozy interiors, and a rooftop conservatory that feels like a secret garden. It’s also in a fantastic location—just around the corner from Nyhavn, yet tucked away from the touristy streets, so you get the best of both worlds. It’s our go-to for a couples’ getaway, offering charm, elegance, and a truly special atmosphere.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll be staying in style!
Final Thoughts on Your Copenhagen Bucket List
Copenhagen is a city that never gets old—no matter how many times I visit, there’s always something new to discover. From exploring grand palaces and scenic parks to diving into world-class food and taking in the city from a bike or boat, these bucket list experiences are the best way to soak up everything this vibrant capital has to offer.
Whether you’re strolling through Tivoli Gardens, indulging in smørrebrød at Selma, or cruising the canals, this Copenhagen bucket list is packed with unforgettable moments. But there’s even more to explore! For a more comprehenisve guide, see my post of 30+ Best Things to Do in Copenhagen.
If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out my other Copenhagen guides, including:
- My Copenhagen 3 Day Itinerary – How to explore the city in only three days.
- Where to Eat in Copenhagen – The best restaurants, cafés, and bakeries you won’t want to miss – add these to your Copenhagen bucket list restaurants list!
- Things to Do in Copenhagen – Even more incredible sights, activities, and hidden gems.
- Where to Stay in Copenhagen – A deeper dive into the best hotels for every traveler.
- How to Get Around Copenhagen – Tips on biking, public transport, and navigating the city like a local.
Copenhagen is a city you’ll fall in love with—just like I have. I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect trip. Happy travels!
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