MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Copenhagen

Things to Do in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Capital Region, Denmark Travel Guide

Embrace the Outdoors

Embrace Copenhagen's outdoor spirit, especially during warmer months.

Land-Based Exploration

Dyrehaven Deer Park

Extensive, easy walking paths through a beautiful natural landscape, spot hundreds of wild deer.

Urban Cycling Routes

Copenhagen boasts an extensive network of dedicated urban cycling routes, exploring the city by bike.

Mountain Biking

Limited options exist within the city; trails can be found in forests outside Copenhagen for challenging rides.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Kayaking: Rent equipment to explore the city's canals at your own pace.
  • Paddleboarding: Explore canals at your own pace.
  • Harbor Swimming: Designated harbor baths (e.g., Islands Brygge) offer safe swimming.
  • Boat Tours: Canal tours offer a laid-back and informative way of exploring the city from the water.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Dyrehaven: Wild deer roaming freely.
  • Copenhagen Zoo: Diverse animals from around the world.
  • Fælledparken: Large urban park with diverse birdlife.
  • Amager Strandpark: Coastal birds and marine life.

Cycling Adventures

  • Rent a city bike for urban exploration.
  • Explore scenic paths along the lakes.
  • Cycle to Amager Strandpark for coastal views.
  • Guided bike tours available for insights.

Thrills & Fun

  • Tivoli Gardens: Historic amusement park rides.
  • Rollercoasters and attractions for all ages.
  • Seasonal themes (Halloween, Christmas).
  • Live concerts and entertainment.

Safety Alert: Water Safety

Only swim in designated harbor baths. Other areas may have boat traffic or unsafe conditions.

Deep Dive into Danish Culture

Learn more about Danish culture through engaging experiences.

Learning & Participation

  • Workshops: Danish design, ceramics, traditional crafts.
  • Danish language classes: Taster classes or conversational meetups.
  • Royal Danish Theatre: Attend opera, ballet, or drama performances.
  • Local Festivals: Events showing Danish traditions and contemporary culture.

Community & Artistry

Freetown Christiania

Offers an unique, community-driven experience. Respect local customs and rules.

DR Koncerthuset

The origin of the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, housed in a striking building.

Vega

A popular music venue hosting a wide range of concerts.

Cultural Events

Copenhagen A Festival of jazz music (July): A renowned international jazz event.

Food & Drink Events

Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival (August): Highlights the city's culinary talents.

Music & Arts

Distortion Festival (June): A large street festival with music and parties.

Moments of Calm

Find moments of calm and rejuvenation in Copenhagen.

Spa & Rejuvenation

  • Ni'mat Spa (Hotel Kong Arthur): Offers a serene spa experience.
  • Amazing Space (Hotel d'Angleterre): Upscale wellness facilities.
  • Public swimming pools: Often include sauna and wellness areas.
  • Yoga studios: Numerous yoga studios operate in the city, offering various classes.

Urban Relaxation

Harbor Baths

Offer an unique urban "beach" experience, allowing you to swim in clean harbor water.

Parks & Gardens

King's Garden and Frederiksberg Gardens provide tranquil green spaces for relaxation.

Coastal Escapes

Amager Strandpark offers beach relaxation and waterside leisure activities.

Wellness Insight

Natural Hot Springs

No natural hot springs exist within Copenhagen itself.

Traditional Healing

Limited traditional healing practices specific to Denmark are available for tourists.

Retreats

Yoga and meditation retreats are typically found outside the city for a more immersive experience.

After Dark

Discover Copenhagen's after-dark activities.

Live Music & Shows

  • Vega: A large, popular venue for concerts.
  • Alice: Features world music and jazz performances.
  • Jazzhouse Montmartre: A historic jazz club.
  • Royal Danish Theatre: has opera, ballet, and drama.

Bars & Clubs

Kødbyen Meatpacking District

A hub for nightclubs and bars, offers a lively atmosphere in Vesterbro.

City Center Indre By

Many options for dancing and late-night entertainment.

Bar Districts

Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Gammel Strand areas for diverse bar scenes.

Vesterbro Nightlife

Explore Kødbyen and Istedgade for a diverse range of bars and clubs.

Nørrebro Nightlife

Check Ravnsborggade and Jægersborggade for trendy spots and a lively atmosphere.

Gammel Strand

This area near Nyhavn offers bars with lovely waterside views.

Drinking Age

The legal drinking age for alcohol in Denmark is 18 years old.

Retail Therapy

Discover Danish design, local crafts, and unique souvenirs.

Markets & Craft

  • TorvehallerneKBH: Upscale food market, gourmet items, fresh produce.
  • Flea Markets: Israels Plads and Nørrebrogade for special items.
  • Artisan Workshops: In Latin Quarter, Nørrebro, Christianshavn.
  • Galleries: Offer Danish design, ceramics, and jewelry.

Souvenirs & Design

Danish Design Items

Ceramics, textiles, furniture miniatures reflect Danish aesthetics.

Iconic Danish Brands

Lego (classic Danish toy) and Moomin products (Finnish, popular in Scandinavia).

Local Delights

Amber jewelry, craft beer, specialty liquorice, and "hygge"-themed home decor items.

Luxury Shopping

  • Strøget: Features international luxury labels.
  • Department stores: Magasin du Nord, Illum.
  • Side streets off Strøget for independent Danish brands.
  • Exclusive boutiques for high-end items.

Ethical Shopping

  • Look for "Made in Denmark" labels.
  • Choose items from certified sustainable brands.
  • Support local artisans and businesses.

VAT & Customs

  • 25% VAT, non-EU residents can claim refunds.
  • Purchases over DKK 300 eligible for refund.
  • Use Without Tax Denmark (Global Blue).
  • Keep all receipts and complete forms at the airport.

Important Shipping Information

Customs Regulations
  • Awareness of home country's customs regulations.
  • Check limits on alcohol, tobacco, and other items.
  • Be aware of any restricted items.
Shipping Services
  • Many stores offer international shipping services.
  • Check shipping costs and estimated delivery times.
  • Consider insuring valuable purchases.

Activity Planning Summary

Copenhagen provides diverse activities for all interests, from historical exploration to modern culinary experiences and nightlife. Plan ahead for a fulfilling visit.

Activity Planning Summary

Highlighted Experiences

  • Explore iconic landmarks and the monarch's residences.
  • Indulge in New Nordic cuisine and street food.
  • Enjoy leisurely canal tours and harbor swimming.
  • Discover neighborhoods and cultural festivals.

Considerations

  • Book popular tours and dining experiences in advance.
  • Utilize Copenhagen's excellent cycling infrastructure.
  • Check seasonal operating hours for attractions like Tivoli.
  • Stay aware of local events for unique opportunities.
Things to Do in Copenhagen. Activities, Experiences, Adventures