Are you searching for something special during your next trip to Copenhagen? You came to the right place!
However, with so much to choose from amid the city's cobblestoned streets and canalside views, it can be intimidating for first-time visitors. To help you make the most of your stay in this innovative Nordic destination, we're uncovering 13 hidden gems that local guides may not tell you about.
From charming eateries to picturesque landmarks off the beaten track – here are our top secrets on how best to experience Copenhagen like a true Dane!
Wander around the Glyptotek
With so many things to experience in Copenhagen, it's hard to know what warrants a visit. The Glyptotek should certainly be at the top of your list! Set in a grand building from 1907, this museum is home to numerous sculptures, paintings, and archaeological artifacts. Many of these pieces date back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations and provide an invaluable glimpse into what those societies were like before.
What's even more remarkable is how you can wander through the vast collections without ever feeling overrun or claustrophobic--it's truly a magical experience. Whether it's for the history, artistry, or atmosphere, make sure to visit the Glyptotek in Copenhagen is first on your list of what to do there.
Church of our Saviour
Climb the Church of our Saviour in Copenhagen to marvel at its breathtaking beauty. This unique baroque church stands apart from the rest of what Copenhagen has to offer due to its impressive 400-step spire that can be climbed for an even more breathtaking view of the city.
Atop this spire are four balconies, perfect for capturing a once-in-a-lifetime vista; the chance to see some of the Danish capital's most beloved features like Amalienborg Palace and Nyhavn Harbor radiating beneath you is irresistible.
Find The Six Forgotten Giants
If you're looking for what to visit in Copenhagen, look no further than The Six Forgotten Giants. These whopping giants are scattered throughout the city, from parks to waterways and urban buildings.
You won't be able to miss them! Each of the figures stands at least 3-6 stories tall and was designed by a different artist to inspire wonder and admiration among those who come upon them. In addition to marveling at their enormity and creative design, visitors can also explore their symbolic meanings, as each reflects on a different characteristic (e.g., gentleness, courage) important to city life and culture.
Source: Flickr ; Author: Guillaume Baviere ; License: License details
This is one of the examples of a challenge that you can get from a card in our Travel Challenge deck to help you improve your experience at your destination:
Swim in the pool of Manon Les Suites
Manon Les Suites in Copenhagen is the perfect place to take a dip in their luxurious heated pool. Enjoy a refreshing morning swim or a leisurely evening soak while taking in breathtaking views of what the city has to offer. Located right next to various attractions, this pool is what to visit in Copenhagen.
The Deer Park
Visiting Deer Park in Copenhagen is truly a magical experience. Surrounded by a bucolic landscape of lush meadows, trees, and rolling hills, marveling at these views is the perfect way to take in nature's captivating beauty.
For those looking for a little adventure, this spot provides an abundance of activities from horseback riding, kayaking, or visiting the royal Möllehuset site. Whether you choose to stroll along the park's pathways or observe its wildlife - including red deer and rabbits – no doubt visiting Copenhagen's Deer Park will leave you feeling endlessly inspired.
Source: Wikimedia Commons ; Author: .bastian ; License: License details
Stroll through Freetown Christiania
Visiting Copenhagen is a truly unique experience - and a must-do is to take a stroll through Freetown Christiania, the autonomous green neighborhood founded in 1971. It's like taking a step back in time to an era when freedom of expression was paramount.
Located in the heart of the city, this self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood offers locals and tourists alike a one-of-a-kind experience unlike any other. There are no cars allowed in Freetown Christiania so strolling down its streets and admiring its brightly colored houses, as well as visiting trendy cafes, street markets, and art galleries among many other attractions, makes for a perfect day off the beaten path. There are also concerts and plays being put on throughout the year, making it easy to get caught up in the creative energy that radiates from this special little corner of Copenhagen.
Explore the canals on a kayak
Visiting Copenhagen is an unforgettable experience, and one way to make it even more special is to take a kayak down the picturesque canals that weave through the city. This unique activity will give you a whole new perspective on the stunning sights of Copenhagen. Paddling down the peaceful river and through blooming canals will provide you with an unforgettable experience of serenity and beauty, while the vibrant locals going about their day-to-day lives create a captivating atmosphere.
You'll be able to explore quaint city streets, vast green parks, and colorful buildings during your journey, making it an invigorating opportunity for sightseeing like no other.
Tivoli Gardens
Visiting Copenhagen is an exciting experience, and visiting Tivoli Gardens should not be missed. From visiting the Little Mermaid to trying some of their famous ice creams, there's no shortage of wonderful sites and delectable treats to check out. This iconic amusement park situated in the heart of the Danish capital has been providing a unique and magical atmosphere since 1843.
Built as an entertainment spot for both adults and children alike, the gardens offer exciting rides, concerts, and performances, plus colorful flower beds, lakes, and lots of greenery – perfect to explore on a sunny day. With its spectacular array of attractions ranging from restaurants to rollercoasters, Tivoli Gardens certainly provides something for everyone.
Superkilen
Visiting Copenhagen wouldn't be complete without a trip to Superkilen. Showcasing art and architecture from over 50 countries around the world, visitors to this incredible location will find themselves immersed in a tapestry of cultural vibrancy framed by lush green spaces.
On one side of the park, you'll be greeted by vivid pink ping-pong tables from Tunisia, while opposite stands a 26-meter-high concrete tower from Berlin. Superkilen is truly spectacular to behold, providing an inspiring and captivating display of world cultures represented through various statues, graffiti, and art pieces from around the globe.
Grundtvig’s Church
Visiting Copenhagen is not complete until you have seen the iconic Grundtvig's Church, an architectural masterpiece unlike any other. The Baroque-style structure is an impressive symbol of Danish tradition, constructed in honor of pastor N.F.S. Grundtvig and his Nordic ideals more than a century ago.
Although nothing can quite compare to visiting this national landmark yourself, there are loads of photographs available online that will take your breath away with its vivid colors, decorated walls, and towering spire. A truly unique sight, Grundtvig's Church is a lasting reminder of the beautiful harmony between functionalism and romanticism that helped create one of the most picturesque cities in Denmark.
The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid
Visiting Copenhagen is an adventure you'll never forget, and a must-see attraction is The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid. This sculpture of the famous mermaid from Hans Christian Anderson's classic tale stands watchfully over the Copenhagen harbor. It's a beautiful bronze statue that has been restored several times because of vandalism, but it remains one of the most beloved symbols of the city.
Most people visiting the popular spot don't realize that this particular statue is a genetically modified version of the original bronze sculpture. It was created to replace the original, which had been decaying despite careful upkeep, and it stands as a testament to modern scientific innovation and progression.
Source: Flickr ; Author: Scott Beale ; License: License details
Kulturtårnet
While what to visit in Copenhagen is not a hard question to answer - the city is full of amazing attractions - there is one location that stands out as an absolute must-see. Kulturtårnet, also known as Culture Tower, is located within the Frederiksberg Have and offers visitors incredible panoramic views of the city's skyline. Whether you choose to take an early morning stroll around the gardens and admire the sunrise from Kulturtårnet or take advantage of the evening glimmering lights stretching across the horizon, visiting this architectural feat will leave you truly inspired.
The top of Kulturtårnet also houses Denmark's popular national history museum, which tells the story of this great nation from its Viking roots to modern times. From what to see and do in Copenhagen to what makes Denmark so special, Kulturtårnet is an ideal spot for any visitor looking to explore what this historic city has to offer.
Source: Flickr ; Author: Ann Priestley ; License: License details
Geological Museum
With more than 700 rocks and minerals, plus incredible pieces such as Sea Urchin Fossils, Fossilized Plant Life, and Gemstones, it's a stunning way to explore what lies beneath the Earth's surface.
The museum also offers educational tours for those wanting to learn about geology firsthand and inspiring lectures from renowned academics on topics such as climate change and glacier retreats. All in all, the Geological Museum is a brilliantly captivating place that will leave you in awe of what nature can create.
Source: Wikimedia Commons ; Author: Origins DK ; License: License details
But the adventure doesn't have to end here. If you're planning a trip to Copenhagen or any other destination, why not take along our deck of cards featuring 50 fun travel challenges? These cards are designed to add an extra layer of excitement to your journey, encouraging you to dive deeper into the local culture and create unforgettable memories.
Whether it's trying a new Danish delicacy, striking up a conversation with a local, or seeking out a hidden gem, our travel challenge cards will turn your trip into an unforgettable adventure. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make your travels even more memorable.
