Famous Landmarks in Copenhagen. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing

Copenhagen's Defining Landmarks

These sites define Copenhagen's image and history.

Explore cultural and historical framework.

Essential Visits

The Little Mermaid: Iconic statue from Andersen's tale.
Nyhavn: 17th-century waterfront, brightly colored homes.
Tivoli Gardens: Historic amusement park, rides, gardens.
Amalienborg Palace: Royal residence, changing of guard.

Prominent Landmarks

Major Attractions

Rosenborg Castle: 17th-century castle, houses crown jewels.
Christiansborg Palace: Parliament, Supreme Court, royal rooms.
Strøget: Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street.
Rundetaarn (Round Tower): Panoramic city views.
Vor Frelsers Kirke: Spiraling spire, thrilling city views.
Freetown Christiania: Unique autonomous commune.

Visitor Information

Little Mermaid: Always accessible, free to visit.
Nyhavn: Free to go on foot around, canal tours depart frequently.
Tivoli Gardens: Entry fee (DKK 155-165), check seasonal hours.
Amalienborg Palace: Museum (DKK 125), Guard Change at 12:00 PM.

Check official websites for specific opening hours and fees for each attraction.

Art & History Collections

National Museum of Denmark: Danish history from the Stone Age.
SMK – National Gallery of Denmark: Danish and international art (14th century to display).
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek: Ancient Mediterranean, Egyptian, 19th-century art.
Designmuseum Danmark: Danish and international design heritage.

Specialized Insights

The Workers Museum:
Focuses on the history of the Danish working class.
Medical Museion:
Exhibitions explore the history of medicine and health sciences.
Frilandsmuseet (Open Air Museum):
Historic Danish farmhouses and country life (requires a short trip outside the city).
Louisiana Museum of Contemporary Art:
Internationally renowned modern art museum (north of Copenhagen).
Nikolaj Kunsthal:
Contemporary art center located in a former church.

Uncover Copenhagen's Past

Explore ancient ruins, historic quarters, and significant monuments.

Historical Contexts

The Ruins Under Christiansborg Palace
Discover remains of Bishop Absalon's original castle.
Latin Quarter (Latinerkvarteret)
Old streets around the University of Copenhagen.
Christianshavn
Charming canal district known for unique architecture.

Freetown Christiania
Self-proclaimed autonomous commune with distinct atmosphere.
Vor Frue Kirke (Copenhagen Cathedral)
Neo-classical cathedral housing sculptures by Bertel Thorvaldsen.
Grundtvig's Church
Unique expressionist church with a striking pipe organ.

Amalienborg Palace

Main residence of the Danish Royal Family; Changing of the Royal Guard at noon.

Holmen

Former naval base, now a mix of cultural institutions and residential areas.

Kastellet The Citadel

Well-preserved 17th-century star-shaped fortress, a public park and military area.

Further Historical Insights

Copenhagen's history extends through various layers, from royal power to everyday life.

Rosenborg Castle: Home to the Danish Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia.
Christian IV's Architecture: Many buildings from this noteworthy period.
The National Museum: A comprehensive view of the Danish past.

Green Spaces & Waterways

Copenhagen offers beautiful green spaces and access to clean waterways.

King's Garden

The oldest royal garden, surrounding Rosenborg Castle, great for a leisurely stroll.

Frederiksberg Gardens

A large romantic garden with canals, lakes, and home to Copenhagen Zoo.

Botanical Garden

Features a large palm house and various plant collections, a tranquil escape.

Urban Nature & Leisure

Scenic Views

The Lakes (Søerne): Three rectangular lakes popular for walking and cycling.

Find Bike Rentals

Harbour Baths

Designated areas for swimming in clean harbor water (e.g., Islands Brygge Harbour Bath).

See Options

Amager Strandpark

An artificial island beach park, popular for swimming and recreation, accessible by Metro.

Explore Beaches

Copenhagen Zoo

Located in Frederiksberg, hosts a wide range of animals from around the world.

Book Tickets

Dyrehaven

The Deer Park north of Copenhagen, hundreds of wild deer roaming freely.

Visit Park

Recreational Spaces

Enjoy outdoor leisure in Copenhagen's diverse parks.

Outstanding Parks

Ørstedsparken: Historic park with a lake and statues.
Fælledparken: A large urban park with diverse birdlife.
Søndermarken: A spacious park adjacent to Frederiksberg Gardens.

Water Activities

The clean harbor offers unique water-based fun and relaxation.

Harbor and Canals

Canal tours: Relaxed and informative way to see city from the water.
Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Rent equipment to explore canals at your pace.
Boat rentals: For independent exploration on the waterways.
Islands Brygge: A popular harbor bath for urban swimming experiences.

Hidden Gems

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Assistens Cemetery: Historic cemetery and beautiful public park.
Superkilen Park: Urban park celebrating diversity, unique space.
Cisternerne: Subterranean water reservoirs, contemporary art space.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Spiral Tower of Vor Frelsers Kirke: Unique architectural feature and city views.
The "Green Lighthouse": Copenhagen University's climate-friendly building.
Vesterbro's Street Art: Explore backavenues for impressive murals and graffiti.

Local Favorites & Emerging Spots

Refshaleøen

An industrial area transformed into a creative hub, home to Reffen street food market, art installations, and various events.

Brumleby

A historic, colorful social housing complex near Østerbro, offering a glimpse into Danish urban living history.

Nordhavn

A modern, sustainable waterfront district with innovative architecture and a developing urban environment.

Insider Tips

Go early morning or late evening for popular sites like The Little Mermaid to avoid large crowds. Visit Tivoli in the late afternoon to experience daylight and then its beautiful night illumination.

Famous Landmarks in Copenhagen