Ideas, insights, and places to visit in Copenhagen
If you have any questions about the different places in Copenhagen, we are of course always available to answer them in the reception.
Tourist attractions
Amalienborg Castle
In the heart of the Frederiksstaden district lies Amalienborg Palace, which was built in the 1750s and today serves as the official main residence of the Royal Family. Amalienborg is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Denmark, and the palace complex consists of four beautiful palaces surrounding the public square, where the Royal Life Guards stand guard around the clock.
Bakken
"Bakken", also known as "Dyrehavsbakken", is the world's oldest amusement park. Located in Dyrehaven north of Copenhagen, Bakken has entertained visitors for over 400 years since 1583 and offers a unique combination of tradition, history, and modern attractions. Bakken is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, especially known for its cozy and relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a day filled with fun and entertainment. With over 33 rides and a outdoor stage featuring musical entertainment, Bakken guarantees a wonderful day out for the whole family.
Christiania
Christiania is a completely unique area in Copenhagen, which for many years has been one of Copenhagen's most visited tourist attractions. Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood founded in 1971 and has since been known for the Christianites' alternative lifestyle, creative culture, colorful houses, and the open hash trade on the premises. Christiania is definitely worth a visit - not least because it has been one of the most discussed places in Copenhagen for the past 30 years.
Christiansborg Palace
Christiansborg Palace is an impressive castle located in the heart of Copenhagen and a historical and political center that has played a central role in the country's history for centuries. Today, Christiansborg Palace houses both the Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court, making it an important symbol of Danish political power and democracy. In addition to its political significance, Christiansborg also attracts thousands of visitors with its magnificent halls, historical exhibitions, and spectacular views from the towers.
Canal tour
In Copenhagen, it's possible to go sightseeing around the city's canals on guided boat tours all year round. Experience Copenhagen from the waterfront with a charming canal tour and enjoy the view of some of the city's major landmarks and historic buildings. In Copenhagen, you can take canal tours with companies such as Stromma and Nettobådene, both departing from Nyhavn and Ved Stranden, and guided in both Danish and English. During the summer, the tours are conducted on open boats, while the winter season offers covered and heated boats.
The Round Tower
With its unique architecture and historical significance, the Round Tower has become one of the city's most visited attractions. It was built in 1642 by King Christian IV as an astronomical observatory and is today Europe's oldest functioning observatory. The Round Tower is part of the Trinitatis Complex, which consists of Trinitatis Church, adjacent to the tower, the University Library on the floor above the church, and the observatory at the top of the tower.
The Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli, an iconic amusement park, welcomes visitors to a magical universe filled with rides, colorful gardens, culinary delights, and cultural gems. With over 180 years of experience, Tivoli has created enchanting experiences for people of all ages from around the world. The beautiful garden combines nostalgic charm with modern entertainment, making it a classic amusement park with elegant garden architecture. There is an admission fee to visit Tivoli, as well as a ride pass if you also wish to experience the attractions.
Our Saviour's Church
Visit Our Saviour's Church, a historic and impressive baroque church located in the charming Christianshavn district of Copenhagen. The church is famous for its distinctive 90-meter-high spire, which adorns the skyline of Copenhagen with its twisted shape and which you can climb all the way to the top of. If you dare...
The Copenhagen Zoo
Visit the Zoological Garden, better known as "Zoo" in Frederiksberg! The 150-year-old zoo is an oasis in the middle of the city, where you can step into a world of wildlife and adventure and experience animals from all over the world up close in fantastic surroundings. Founded in 1859, the Zoological Garden is not just a place for entertainment, but also an important center for conservation, research, and education. With fascinating animals from around the globe, from majestic elephants to curious monkeys, our zoo offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the diversity and beauty of nature. Get ready for a day filled with excitement, learning, and unforgettable moments with friends and family.
Water and nature
The Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is part of the Natural History Museum of Denmark at the University of Copenhagen and houses Denmark's largest collection of living plants, as well as preserved plants in the herbarium. This beautiful garden is a green paradise in the heart of the city, where visitors can experience outstanding collections of plants from around the world. Whether you are a nature researcher, a plant enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the Botanical Garden is well worth a visit. It is a unique destination that connects people with nature and inspires conservation and understanding of our natural heritage.
Dyrehaven
With its green forests, open meadows, and majestic deer, Dyrehaven (The Deer Park) in Klampenborg is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who want to enjoy nature and get close to wildlife.
GoBoat
Experience Copenhagen from the water with GoBoat – a unique way to explore the city's canals and harbors. Take a boat trip in a GoBoat and be your own captain in Copenhagen’s canals. Take control and see the city's landmarks from an entirely new perspective.
Harbor baths and beach
As a coastal city with many canals, Copenhagen offers beautiful beaches and harbor baths, providing plenty of opportunities to take a dip or enjoy the sun by the water in the city. Below is a list of the most family-friendly beaches and harbor baths in Copenhagen:
Opera Park
Visit the Opera Park – a modern romantic oasis in the heart of Copenhagen's harbor. Located right next to the Opera House, the park offers a magical blend of nature, art, and recreation, where visitors can enjoy a unique experience of beauty and tranquility amidst the vibrant city life. Dive into this enchanting park and explore the six distinct gardens it has to offer.
Parks
The city offers a wealth of beautiful parks and natural areas that are perfect for pleasant walks and outdoor living. With stunning green spaces, blooming flowerbeds, and picturesque lakes, these parks are ideal for relaxation, picnics, and nature experiences in the heart of the city. The many hidden gems of tranquil and beautiful parks are just waiting to be explored. No matter the season, these parks are always worth a visit.
Skateparks
Copenhagen is home to several free skateparks that attract skaters of all ages and skill levels. These skateparks provide a safe and fun environment for skaters to practice their skills and explore new tricks. Here are some of the most popular free skateparks that are open to the public year-round and serve as popular meeting spots for skaters.
The Lakes
The Lakes form an iconic part of Copenhagen's city center and consist of a series of artificially created lakes that stretch from Vesterbro across the inner city to Østerbro. These lakes are a central feature of the city's landscape and attract both locals and visitors with their beautiful surroundings and recreational opportunities.
Museums
BLOX
BLOX is a dynamic cultural center located by the waterfront, just a 5-minute walk from the hostel. With its innovative and modern architecture, BLOX offers an exciting mix of exhibition spaces, workplaces, residences, and public areas. This architectural masterpiece is not only a destination for architecture and design enthusiasts but also a vibrant gathering point for the city's residents and visitors. At BLOX, you will find, among other things, the Danish Architecture Center, the Danish Design Center, SATS, playgrounds, and cozy cafés.
Den Blå Planet
Dive into a magical underwater world for the whole family at Den Blå Planet (The Blue Planet), Northern Europe’s largest aquarium! Get up close to colorful tropical fish, majestic sharks, graceful rays, playful otters, and mysterious sea creatures in stunning, immersive aquarium environments.
Frilandsmuseet
Take a journey through time at Frilandsmuseet (The Open Air Museum), a unique outdoor museum located just outside Copenhagen. This remarkable cultural treasure transports visitors back to traditional Danish village life as it looked across the centuries. Here, historic farmhouses, village buildings and original interiors have been recreated with great care, offering a vivid and authentic sense of everyday life in rural Denmark. It is a living tribute to Danish cultural heritage — history here is not just displayed, but experienced. Wander through the old buildings, meet the animals, and explore the open landscape to discover how people lived, worked and celebrated in the past. There are always fun events and activities for both children and adults, with extra family-friendly programs during school holidays, making it an ideal destination for a day out together.
The Glyptotek
Join us on a magical journey through the wonderful world of art at the Glyptotek in the heart of Copenhagen! Discover a treasure trove of art and culture in a unique museum that offers an inspiring blend of ancient sculptures, paintings, and exotic plants within a stunning architectural setting. The Glyptotek is a gem among Copenhagen's cultural attractions and provides an unforgettable experience for both art lovers and curious minds. The Glyptotek caters to all ages and invites visitors to explore a world of artistic beauty and historical significance. Whether you are an art connoisseur or a novice, you will be captivated by the museum's impressive collection and atmospheric ambiance, which encourages reflection and immersion.
National Museum of Denmark
For history enthusiasts, the National Museum is highly recommended. The National Museum in Copenhagen is Denmark's largest cultural history museum and one of the most significant. The museum offers a fascinating journey through Denmark's history and culture, providing a great insight into how Danish history has unfolded over the past 300 years.
Planetarium
Visit the Planetarium in Vesterbro and get up close to the stars and the infinite mysteries of the universe. The Planetarium is one of Denmark's most popular cultural and science centers, offering a variety of exciting and interactive experiences for the whole family. At the Planetarium, visitors can explore a world of astronomy, space exploration, and natural sciences through a range of impressive exhibitions, live shows, and film experiences. Discover a wondrous realm of astronomy and space adventures in the heart of the city and be enchanted.
Get moving
Bowling
Are you in need of inspiration for a family activity or a fun evening with friends? Bowling is a great option. Whether you're experienced or not, a game of bowling is sure to bring plenty of laughs and get your heart rate up. Here are two suggestions for bowling alleys close to Danhostel City.
Copenhill
CopenHill sits atop the incineration plant in Amager. Just a quick trip from Copenhagen's center, it offers skiing, snowboarding, sledding, running, hiking, and climbing opportunities. This unique recreational space seamlessly blends sports, nature, and sustainability in a breathtaking setting.
Cycling Routes
Copenhagen is known for its many cyclists. The people of Copenhagen love to bike, so if you visit the city, you will surely see people of all ages getting around on two wheels. Cycling is indeed a brilliant way to experience Copenhagen. With the many bike lanes, you can quickly get from A to B while enjoying the many unique areas Copenhagen has to offer. Below, you can get inspiration for various cycling routes in Copenhagen
Kayak
Copenhagen is characterized by its harbor areas, where people sail, swim, and bathe. If you want to experience the city while being active, kayaking or SUP might be for you. Here, you can enjoy the sunshine on Danish waters and escape the traffic and commotion. Please note that renting a kayak or SUP requires swimming skills.
Climbing / X-jump / Playland
Are you looking for inspiration for activities that offer fun and play while keeping you active? Here, we have compiled some suggestions for activities suitable for both children and adults, with varying levels of difficulty:
Running routes
When visiting Copenhagen, chances are you'll encounter numerous runners along your way. Despite the hustle and bustle of the city streets, it's safe and easy to go for a run in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is also known for its annual Copenhagen Marathon and the CPH Half, offering opportunities to run through the streets of Copenhagen.
Swimming pools
Do you want to swim laps in the pool, dive from diving boards, or relax in a warm pool? Whether alone or with family, Copenhagen offers several fantastic swimming pools. Here you can find suggestions for swimming pools to visit when you're in Copenhagen.
Hiking routes
Copenhagen may be famous for its bike-friendly streets – but it's actually best experienced on foot. Walking allows you to notice the small details, feel the street vibes, and discover places you might otherwise miss. Whether you prefer short city walks or longer nature trails in the surrounding areas, it's easy and safe to lace up your walking shoes and set off on an adventure. From green parks and coastal paths to historic neighborhoods and hidden gems – here you'll find hiking routes that beautifully combine urban life and nature experiences.
Guided tours
StoryHunt (Know your bro)
Discover Copenhagen's fascinating history and cultural heritage with Storyhunt! This innovative and interactive game allows you to explore the city's most iconic sites, solve mysteries, and uncover hidden gems while learning about its history and culture. Storyhunt is the perfect activity for both locals and visitors who want to experience Copenhagen in a fun and exciting way.
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours allows you to join guided tours for free. Their local guides have years of experience and are not deterred by the sometimes unpredictable Danish weather. If you wish, you can tip at the end of the tour to help keep the concept alive. You can choose between three different routes where you can see Amalienborg, Vor Frelsers Kirke, Rundetårn, Rosenborg Slot and the Torvehallerne Market. If you'd rather experience Copenhagen's nightlife, Copenhagen Free Walking Tours also offers a Pub Crawl.
Gadens stemmer (Voices of the Streets)
Join a fascinating and unique walking tour through one of Copenhagen's more challenging environments and experience the city's hidden side up close with Voices of the Street. Voices of the Streets is a social project in Copenhagen offering walking tours led by individuals with experiences from life on the street. These guides share their personal stories and provide participants with a close insight into the city's hidden side and the challenges some people face in society.
Urban Hunt
Explore Copenhagen with Urban Hunt, an interactive city puzzle hunt where the streets become your playing field. As you make your way through Copenhagen, you will follow clues, solve puzzles and work together to find your next stop. The games are inspired by real stories, places and events, giving you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and discover details you might otherwise have walked right past. It is a fun and different way to experience Copenhagen, perfect for combining sightseeing with puzzles, teamwork and a little friendly competition.
Shopping
Strøget
Embark on a shopping trip to Strøget – Copenhagen's largest shopping street. Here awaits a day filled with lively streets, trendy shops, and historic landmarks that will enchant your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. Strøget is an iconic part of Copenhagen's urban landscape and a must-visit for anyone in the city.
Shopping center
Do you need a day filled with shopping, entertainment, and culinary experiences? Then set out to explore Copenhagen's exciting shopping centers, where you can find everything your heart desires under one roof! Whether you’re on the hunt for the latest fashion trends, electronics, toys, or delicious delicacies, there’s a shopping center in Copenhagen that meets your needs and desires. The shopping centers in Copenhagen cater to all ages and offer a diversity of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. From large international chains to small local specialty shops, you'll find a wealth of exciting products and goods that appeal to every taste and style. Whether you're looking for luxurious brand names or budget-friendly deals, there’s something for everyone in Copenhagen's shopping centers.
Restaurants and night life
Streetfood
Copenhagen offers an unparalleled experience of street food and culinary adventures. Both Broens Gadekøkken and Reffen Copenhagen Street Food are two unique and popular food destinations that must be experienced in Copenhagen.
Night life
Copenhagen offers a vibrant nightlife and exciting bar scene that attracts both locals and visitors. With a wide array of bars, clubs, and pubs, there's truly something for everyone. In the city centre, as well as areas like the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) and Nørrebro, you'll find trendy bars and nightclubs playing a variety of music genres. For a more laid-back evening, there are plenty of cosy pubs and traditional bars scattered throughout the city. The harbourfront is perfect for enjoying a drink with a view on warm summer evenings. Whether you prefer sophisticated cocktail bars, buzzing nightclubs, or charming old-school pubs, Copenhagen has a lively and diverse nightlife scene filled with unforgettable experiences. Just outside the city, at Reffen on Refshaleøen, you’ll also find a great mix of hip bars and restaurants. Here’s a guide to some of the best bars and clubs in Copenhagen – offering a wide range of vibes and experiences:
Dining options
Depending on which district you are in, prices, selection, and the quality of the gastronomy vary. One thing is certain, though – in Copenhagen you will find something for every taste. From relaxed burger bars and beautiful sushi spots to Michelin-starred restaurants and specialized niche cafés, the city is home to a rich culinary diversity. Copenhagen’s café scene is always buzzing with activity, where students, families, and couples alike enjoy good company and delicious food. In addition to the wide range of restaurants and cafés, you should not miss Copenhagen’s street food culture, which has become extremely popular in recent years.
Child-friendly places
Experimentarium
Dive into the fascinating world of science at Experimentarium in Hellerup! A day filled with fun and learning awaits the whole family. Experimentarium is an interactive experience park packed with exciting exhibitions and activities designed to spark curiosity and challenge your senses. It is Denmark’s science center, where you can explore the world through science and technology in a fun and unconventional way. Experimentarium caters to all ages and offers an engaging mix of exploration, learning, and entertainment. Whether you’re a child or an adult, you’ll be entertained and inspired by the many interactive exhibitions and activities, all created to ignite curiosity and fascination with the world of science.
Fælledparken’s playgrounds
If you’re looking for inspiration for playgrounds for the kids, Fælledparken is a great option. Here, you’ll find several different playgrounds with something to suit every taste.
Indoor playgrounds
If you’re looking for inspiration for an activity for children, an indoor playground is a great option. An indoor playground is filled with entertaining activities designed for fun and play.
Valby nature playground
Valby Nature Playground is a 20,000 m² staffed playground offering a wide range of activities with space for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to take the children on an outing where they can burn off energy in the fresh air while experiencing Copenhagen’s largest nature playground.
Advice, ideas and places in Copenhagen
Our guides are created by two Copenhagen locals and cover both the major, well-known attractions in Copenhagen as well as a range of excellent insider tips for the city. They include suggestions for tours in neighborhoods, great dining spots, or active experiences for both children and adults.
Popular sightseeing spots
It is good to know that Copenhagen is divided into five major districts: Inner city/centre, Østerbro, Nørrebro, Frederiksberg and Vesterbro:
In the centre of Copenhagen where the hostel is located, you will find most of the major attractions: the free town Christiania, Tivoli Gardens, the queen's castle, museums and also Copenhagen's main shopping street "Strøget" which is about 1 km long. (see more about "shopping" in the categories below).
Nørrebro and Vesterbro are the trendy and multicultural boroughs of Copenhagen that are full of young families, students, hipsters and offer various niche shops, restaurants and cafes. It is generally cheaper to dine and go to the cafes and bars in these boroughs.
Østerbro and Frederiksberg are both known as the more "posh" boroughs of Copenhagen – lots of young people live here of course, but the areas also have many families and it is typically more expensive to go out to eat or go to a bar in these two areas.
Vacation in Copenhagen
If you're planning a vacation trip to Copenhagen and haven't booked your stay yet, check out our offers for accommodation at Danhostel Copenhagen City.
Photo: Broens Gadekøkken
Gastronomy
Depending on which district you find yourself in, prices, selection, and quality of the presented gastronomy vary.
One thing is certain, though – in Copenhagen, you'll find something to suit every taste. From casual burger joints and beautiful sushi places to Michelin-starred restaurants and specialized niche cafés.
The Copenhagen café scene is always bustling, with students, families, and couples enjoying each other's company and delicious food.
In addition to a plethora of delicious restaurants and cafés, you shouldn't miss out on Copenhagen's street food culture, which has become extremely popular in recent years.
You can read more about our recommendations for good eateries above under the "restaurants" section.
Restaurants and night life Streetfood
How to get around
In Copenhagen, you have plenty of options for transportation, including the metro, S-train network, or one of the many buses that operate in the city.
Many Copenhageners choose to cycle around, and as a tourist, there are also many opportunities to rent bikes – including from us.
If you're looking for an affordable vacation in Copenhagen and especially want to save money on transportation around the city, you may consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card.
A Copenhagen Card not only provides access to a wealth of attractions but also offers free public transport – regardless of zone, ticket price, or travel duration. The card is an excellent way to enjoy a holiday in the capital while saving money on both admission and transportation. Additionally, the card offers discounts at various restaurants.
The card is 100% digital and can be used offline and in flight mode once activated in the app.
Rent a bike - learn more here Learn more about Copenhagen CardQuestions, answers and inspiration for your stay at Danhostel Copenhagen City.
Here you will find answers to a range of questions about what you can experience during your stay with us. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, you are always welcome to use our chat or send us an email at rec@cphhostel.dk.
How close is your hostel to Tivoli Gardens?
Tivoli Gardens is just 900 metres from Danhostel Copenhagen City. That means you can reach the rides, the many culinary experiences, the beautiful architecture and the popular Friday concerts in just 10 minutes from our hostel.
Can you walk to Strøget from the hostel?
Danhostel Copenhagen City is just 850 metres from City Hall Square and the beginning of Strøget. Strøget is Copenhagen’s largest shopping street, so it is easy to get back to your room with all your purchases after a day of shopping. You will also find a wide selection of restaurants and cafés along Strøget.
Which attractions are within walking distance?
As our guest, you can reach many of Copenhagen’s attractions on foot. These include:
- Tivoli Gardens
- City Hall Square
- Danish Architecture Center
- The National Museum of Denmark
- Christiansborg Palace
- Glyptoteket
- The Danish War Museum
Our location is also ideal for getting around Copenhagen by public transport, with easy access to buses, the metro and trains.
How far is Copenhagen Central Station from the hostel?
Copenhagen Central Station is just 900 metres from Danhostel Copenhagen City, so you can walk there in around 10 minutes. The station also makes it easy to take the train for day trips during your stay with us.
Which restaurants and cafés are close to the hostel?
Thanks to our central location, you have plenty of opportunities to explore Copenhagen’s culinary scene. Whether you are in the mood for Michelin-starred dining or street food, you will not have to go far. Some of the closest options include:
- Tivoli Food Hall
- Green Island
- Kødbyen
- Jagger
What is the easiest way to get to Christiania from the hostel?
There are several easy ways to get to Christiania from Danhostel Copenhagen City. We recommend renting a bike from our reception and cycling there in under 10 minutes. You can also walk across Lille Langebro and continue through the charming streets of Christianshavn. The walk takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the bus, which takes approximately the same amount of time as walking.
Where can you find street food near the hostel?
You can find street food in several places around Copenhagen, with Tivoli Food Hall being the closest. As it is indoors, it is a great option whatever the weather and is also open during winter.
During the summer months, make sure you also visit the lively Broens Gadekøkken. It is around 10 minutes away by bike or approximately 30 minutes on foot or by bus from the hostel.
If you want to experience Copenhagen’s largest street food market, you can also visit Reffen Street Food, where you will find food from around the world and a fantastic atmosphere. It takes around 15 minutes by bike, just over an hour on foot or approximately 40 minutes by bus.
Which family-friendly activities are close to the hostel?
When you stay at Danhostel Copenhagen City, Tivoli Gardens is just around a 10-minute walk away. You will also find several child- and family-friendly activities within walking distance of the hostel:
- IKONO Copenhagen (15% discount when staying at Danhostel Copenhagen City)
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
- Guinness World Records Museum
- The National Museum of Denmark
- GoBoat (up to 10% discount when staying at Danhostel Copenhagen City)
- Museum of Illusions Copenhagen
There are also several playgrounds and harbour baths close to the hostel.
Where is the nearest harbour bath?
Danhostel Copenhagen City is located right by Copenhagen Harbour, and Kalvebod Bølge is just a two-minute walk away. It is particularly popular during summer and offers a great opportunity for a swim during your stay. The bathing area is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Which museums and cultural attractions are nearby?
With our central location by Langebro and just a stone’s throw from the city centre, you can easily reach many of Copenhagen’s top attractions and cultural experiences. Some suggestions include:
- Tivoli Gardens
- The National Museum of Denmark
- Copenhagen City Hall
- Christiansborg Palace
- Thorvaldsens Museum
- Danish Architecture Center
- Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
- The Danish War Museum
- The Royal Danish Library
Why is your hostel a good base for exploring Copenhagen?
Guests at Danhostel Copenhagen City often highlight our central location, which makes exploring Copenhagen easy. With many of the city’s biggest attractions within walking distance, you can spend more time experiencing Copenhagen and less time planning your journey and getting around.
Where do canal tours near the hostel depart from?
If you would like to take a canal tour during your stay in Copenhagen, there are several options within easy reach of Danhostel Copenhagen City. The classic canal tours from Nyhavn are around a 20-minute walk or just five minutes away by bike.
There are also other ways to experience Copenhagen’s beautiful canals from the water. For example, you can take a GoBoat from just across the street from the hostel, where you also receive a discount when staying with us.