Things to do in Copenhagen

Why go to Copenhagen

• Tivoli Gardens

  The world's second-oldest amusement park dazzles with rides, gardens, and live music right in the city center.

• The Little Mermaid Statue

  Copenhagen's most iconic landmark sits harborside and is completely free to visit anytime.

• Nyhavn Waterfront

  Brightly colored 17th-century townhouses line a picture-perfect canal that's the heart of Copenhagen's soul.

• Rosenborg Castle

  A fairy-tale Renaissance castle housing the Danish Crown Jewels in a stunning royal garden setting.

• Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

  A jaw-dropping seaside art museum 35 minutes from the city blending world-class contemporary art with dramatic coastal landscapes.

Good to know in Copenhagen

• Transit: A 24-hour City Pass covers all metro, bus, and S-train zones 1-4 for about $16, far cheaper than individual tickets if you're making more than 3 trips. Copenhagen also has free city bikes (Bycyklen requires a small deposit).
• Tipping: Tipping is not expected or required in Denmark; service is included by law. Rounding up to the nearest dollar on a restaurant bill is generous and appreciated but never obligatory.
• Tap Water: Copenhagen's tap water is among the cleanest and best-tasting in the world, always ask for tap ('hanevand') at restaurants to avoid paying $5+ for bottled water.
• Free-Entry Days: The National Museum, SMK (National Gallery of Denmark), and Copenhagen City Museum are free every day. Louisiana Museum offers free entry for under-18s, and some state museums waive fees on specific days, check visitcopenhagen.com for current schedules.

Trip essentials