Copenhagen, the main city of Denmark, is a cool mix of old stories, culture, and being up-to-date. It’s got pretty canals and old buildings, plus lots of good food and a lifestyle that’s kind to the Earth. There’s a bunch of cool stuff for folks to check out in Copenhagen, whether you’re into old stuff, art, grub, or just hanging out in the Danish vibe. So, here’s a list of the best 10 spots you gotta see in Copenhagen.

1. The Little Mermaid

Copenhagen’s much-loved symbol, “The Little Mermaid,” is a bronze statue situated on a rocky spot by the harbor. Inspired by a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, the artwork shows a thoughtful mermaid looking out at the sea. It’s a bit taller than four feet and has delicate details and a graceful stance that creates a feeling of magic. Even though it’s not big, it’s very meaningful for the city in terms of what it represents. Visitors come here a lot to appreciate how the mermaid and the harbor blend together. The location provides really impressive views, so it’s a great place for taking photos. Even if you’re surprised by how not-large it is, “The Little Mermaid” shows how stories can be really powerful. They can turn a simple statue into a lasting symbol of what makes Copenhagen attractive.

2. Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens, a charming oasis in the center of Copenhagen, stands as one of the world’s oldest theme parks, captivating visitors for more than a hundred years. Its main attractions include a perfect mix of old-fashioned and up-to-date rides, enchanting gardens decorated with flowers that change with the seasons, and a captivating outdoor theater that hosts live shows. As the evening comes, Tivoli turns into a magical place with its sparkling lights brightening up the paths, eateries, and things to do. Delightful food experiences await, from fancy meals to classic Danish sweets. The park’s sentimental appeal, paired with state-of-the-art entertainments, makes Tivoli a special spot for all generations. Whether you’re excited about roller coasters, charmed by live music, or just wanting a peaceful walk through beautiful scenery, Tivoli Gardens offers an unforgettable and ageless getaway from the busy city surroundings.

Quick Information	Recommendations
Best Time to Visit for Families and Kids	Consider visiting Copenhagen during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor family-friendly activities and events are abundant.
Best Time to Visit for Avoiding Crowds	To avoid crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or fall (September to October).
When to Visit on a Budget	Travel during the winter months (November to February) for potential budget-friendly options, as it’s the off-peak season.
When to Visit for Good Weather	Experience the best weather in Copenhagen during the summer months (June to August) when temperatures are mild and suitable for outdoor exploration.
Travel Options	Copenhagen offers various travel options, including efficient biking lanes, an extensive city bus network, ferry services, car rentals, and taxis.
Health and safety measures	Stay updated on health and safety measures through the official website of the Danish Health Authority.
Cultural events and festivals	Explore cultural events and festivals on the VisitCopenhagen official website.
Visa and entry requirements	Check visa and entry requirements on the official website of the Danish Immigration Service.
Language Compatibility	English is widely spoken, but learning a few Danish phrases can enhance your experience. Access language tips at Copenhagen Language Center.
Accommodation options	Find accommodation options on the official tourism website VisitCopenhagen.
Popular Local cuisine	Indulge in iconic local dishes like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and Danish pastries (wienerbrød).
Transportation accessibility	Plan your transportation using the Movia website for buses and DSB for trains.
Currency Exchange and Financial Services	Locate currency exchange services and ATMs through Copenhagen Airport or major banks in the city.
Local Etiquette and Customs	Familiarize yourself with local etiquette on Denmark’s official website.

3. Nyhavn

Nyhavn, this really pretty part by the water in Copenhagen, attracts folks with its lively colors, old-world charm, and bustling feel. This famous area shows off a line of colorful 17th-century houses along the busy canal, creating a picture-perfect scene like you’d find on a postcard. The dockside is full of places to eat, grab coffee, and have drinks, so it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy yummy Danish food while looking at the water. You can hop on boat tours from Nyhavn, which give you a cool view of the city’s famous spots from the water. The busy vibe, old buildings, and lots of things happening make Nyhavn a place you absolutely should go to, catching the true feeling of Copenhagen’s captivating energy.

4. The Round Tower (Rundetårn)

The Round Tower, also known as Rundetårn, stands as a unique and impressive piece of architecture in Copenhagen. It was constructed during the 17th century. This cylindrical tower is well-known for its spiral ramp, which curves its way to the top instead of using the usual stairs. This creative design allowed horses and carriages to carry heavy astronomical tools to the observatory at the tower’s highest point. People who visit nowadays can use the ramp to slowly climb up and enjoy stunning views of the city. The tower also contains an observatory for studying the stars and a charming library room. Some of its special features include the library’s finely crafted wooden interiors, a glass floor that lets you see the mechanics of the original ramp, and an outdoor terrace that gives you a wide and breathtaking view of Copenhagen’s skyline. The Round Tower is more than just a marvel from history; it shows Danish cleverness and is an unmatched place for both enjoying the sights and gaining knowledge.

5. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle, a precious gem in Copenhagen’s collection, captures the history of Danish royalty and impressive architecture. It was built in the early 17th century in a style inspired by Dutch Renaissance, showing off detailed brickwork and roofs made of copper. A major highlight is its role as the safekeeping place for Denmark’s crown jewels, which are displayed in the richly decorated rooms of the treasury. People are amazed by the luxurious insides, like the Big Hall with its hanging fabrics, and the King’s Room, where the elegant royal atmosphere is clearly visible. The nearby King’s Garden invites relaxed walks through the green scenery. Rosenborg Castle stands as evidence of Denmark’s royal past, offering an interesting peek into the lives of its kings and the country’s cultural heritage.

6. The National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is like a really interesting treasure chest filled with the history and culture of the country. Inside, there are all sorts of different things from many, many years ago to cool things that Danes have done recently. One cool part is a big collection of stuff from the time of the Vikings, showing how good they were at sailing and the interesting things about their way of life. The museum’s halls look like they were inspired by the Renaissance period and they have fancy things that kings and queens used a long time ago. These things show the country’s royal history. There’s a special place called the Children’s Museum that’s made for kids to have fun while learning about history. They can touch and play with things from the past. There’s also a bunch of art in the museum, with paintings and sculptures from Denmark and all around the world. These artworks show how art has changed over the years. The museum really cares about teaching, and they do this by having fun activities, talks, and special shows that change sometimes. So, all in all, the National Museum of Denmark really shows what the country is all about through its old things, giving people a fun way to explore Denmark’s history, art, and how society has changed over time.

7. Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace, a significant symbol of Danish politics and history, proudly stands in Copenhagen. It’s where the Danish Parliament meets, and it gives us fascinating insights into how the country is run. One of the special parts is the Royal Reception Rooms, which are decked out with lavish decorations and show us what fancy events for royals look like. If you head up the palace tower, you can get awesome panoramic views of the city, and really take in Copenhagen’s skyline. And the fact that there used to be old castles on this spot adds to its historical importance. What’s really cool is that Christiansborg Palace is the only place in the whole world that has all three parts of the government – the Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court. This makes it a really impressive example of Danish democracy and heritage.

8. Freetown Christiania

Freetown Christiania, snugly situated in Copenhagen, is a truly interesting exception. Back in the 1970s, it started on an old army base, and now it’s a self-proclaimed independent community with unique traits. The walkways have paintings that show off creativity. The effort for eco-friendliness is quite noticeable; you won’t see many cars, but instead there are lots of bicycles and people walking. The group lives by its own rules, which helps them feel like they’re part of a community that cooperates. Going against the usual ways, Christiania stands up for the freedom to be artistic and show what you think, which you can see in their outdoor studios and exhibit areas. Even though there’s been a lot of talk and ongoing discussions with Danish officials, the area keeps its different vibe, being a sort of alternative paradise within a modern city.

9. The National Gallery of Denmark (SMK)

The National Gallery of Denmark, also known as the SMK, is a wonderful place in the center of Copenhagen that shows a big collection of art from the 13th century to art made today. This super nice museum has lots of different styles of art, so people who really like art will be very happy there.

Some of the important things about the SMK are its special collection of European art. They have really famous art made by artists like Rembrandt, Rubens, and Goya. The museum also really likes Danish Golden Age painters like Eckersberg and Hammershøi, which shows how Denmark has been good at making art for a long time.

The SMK also has a part with modern and contemporary art. This is like looking through a window to see how art in Denmark is changing. The museum talks a lot to artists who are making art now, so you can see old and new kinds of art together.

The way the museum looks and feels is really nice. It’s pretty and calm, which makes it really good to look at art there. They also do shows about different topics and have people who can show you around and teach you things. This helps you understand more about the history and culture of the art.

The SMK really wants everyone to be able to come and enjoy the art. They made sure it’s easy to walk around and find things, so everyone can have a good time. Because it’s in the middle of the city and close to other cool things, it’s a must-visit if you want to see old and new art from Denmark and learn about the creative things happening now.

10. Strøget Shopping Street

Running right through the center of Copenhagen, Strøget Shopping Street spreads out as a lively retail haven that showcases the city’s diverse and worldly character. With its stone-paved paths and people-friendly design, Strøget offers an unmatched shopping adventure. Notable aspects encompass a diverse blend of fancy brands, local small stores, and global shops, catering to all preferences and fashions.

The energetic atmosphere of the street also features street performers, musicians, and open-air cafes, crafting a welcoming vibe for relaxed walks. The busy avenue stretches across 1.1 kilometers, covering stylish discoveries, timeless Danish creations, and an assortment of mementos. Tourists can uncover its distinct zones, ranging from the high-style stretch of Købmagergade to the charming specialized shops of Strædet.

Strøget goes beyond just shopping; it’s a cultural voyage through Copenhagen’s present and past. As the heartbeat of the city’s business and communal life, Strøget Shopping Street captures the core of Danish grace and originality, making it a must-visit for anyone eager to soak up the city’s bustling vitality.

The thing that makes Copenhagen special is how it mixes old-fashioned stuff with the new. Doesn’t matter if you’re checking out old castles, looking at modern art, or enjoying yummy Danish pastries in a cute café – this city guarantees you’ll have a good time. The people are friendly, the public transportation works well, and there’s lots of stuff to do. So, without a doubt, Copenhagen should be on the list of places to visit for anyone who loves to travel.