8 Must-See Attractions in Beautiful Copenhagen
- Written by Ashley Johnson
Copenhagen is a fantastic city and the capital of Denmark, making it a big tourist destination. People from around the world flock to Copenhagen to spend days scouring the streets, visiting attractions, browsing through the shops, and eating your way through the city.
Sign up for guided walking tours, enjoy a canal tour, or just wander through the city on your own. No matter how you choose to see Copenhagen, there are several must-see attractions including the iconic Nyhavn and Rosenborg Castle.
Spend your next vacation discovering all Copenhagen has to offer while immersing yourself in the culture. While checking out these attractions, drop your bags at a Copenhagen luggage locker to spend the day hands-free..
Take a few minutes to decide which attractions you want to check out when you visit Copenhagen. Whether you are into museums, gardens, or castles, there is something for everyone while in the city.
National Museum of Denmark
You cannot visit Copenhagen without checking out the National Museum of Denmark. This massive museum showcases the history and culture of all things Danish. The heart of the Danes can be discovered when you explore this museum.
The National Museum of Denmark is housed in the Prince’s Palace, which was built during the 18th century. The architecture will leave you in awe. Stroll through exhibits and view artifacts from the Vikings and the Stone Age.
This is the largest museum in Denmark so plan to spend at least half a day exploring all the nooks and crannies. Expect long lines so plan to get there early.
Nyhavn
You absolutely must see the most iconic attraction in Copenhagen. The 17th-century harbor is filled with modern boats, old-world wooden boats, restaurants, and townhouses. The port’s history will draw you in and keep you coming back.
Stroll along with the locals and other tourists while breathing in the fresh sea air. Sit down for a fresh seafood meal or browse some of the souvenir stands looking for the perfect gifts for loved ones back home.
Rosenborg Castle
Built in 1606 by one of the most famous Scandinavian kings, Christian IV, Rosenborg Castle is a true marvel. It was originally used as a royal summer house. Located in the King’s Garden near the center of Copenhagen, Rosenborg Castle is a must-see.
The interior has been kept much the same as it was in the 1600s, with original furnishings still in place. Visit the Knights’ Hall complete with coronation thrones. Explore the King’s bedroom with the king’s private writing desk.
Be amazed by the collection of Venetian glass on display throughout the castle. Book your ticket to Rosenborg Castle online and skip the long lines.
Design Museum Danmark
There is nothing quite like Danish design. For those with an interest in architecture, the Design Museum Danmark is a must-see. The building the museum is housed in is a testament to the amazing Danish architecture that fills Copenhagen.
The building was the first public hospital in Denmark but was reconfigured into the Design Museum during the 1920s. The museum is home to all things industrial Danish design as well as textiles, ceramics, glass, and poster art.
Works by Arne Jacobsen, Hans Wegner, and Finn Juhl can be found here. Sign up for a guided tour or a workshop to get the full experience of the museum.
CopenHill
There is so much to do at CopenHill, you can easily spend the entire day exploring and participating in outdoor sports such as skiing, hiking, or snowboarding. Try your hand at the tallest climbing wall in the world.
CopenHill is a waste-to-energy plant that is so much more. It was designed by Bjarke Ingels, a renowned Danish architect. Bring your adventurous spirit and ski or snowboard down the 1,300-foot ski slope.
Relax in the café after spending time on the climbing wall or slopes. You will truly enjoy being a part of the festive atmosphere that is CopenHill. You can book ski time on their website.
Frederiksborg Castle
Located just north of Copenhagen is Frederiksborg Castle, one of the most renowned castles in all of Denmark. This is another castle built by Christian IV during the 17th century and is the biggest Renaissance-style castle.
Many Danes call this the Danish Versailles because it is so massive. The castle sits on three islets and is surrounded by water. Visit the Museum of National History while you are at Frederiksborg Castle and then stroll through the gardens.
While in the gardens, you will see the Bath House Castle. Order your tickets online and spend a day at Frederiksborg Castle.
Amalienborg Palace
Another must-see attraction in Copenhagen is Amalienborg Palace, the home of the royal family. It is technically a complex that was constructed out of four different palace buildings.
Visitors can only visit two of the four buildings: Christian VIII’s Palace where the Amalienborg Museum is housed and Christian VII’s Palace with its amazing Flora Danica Room, Great Hall, and Dining Room.
While exploring the palace watch the Royal Guard, known as the Den Kongelige Livgarde. You can also view the Changing of the Guards each day, including a parade through the Rosenborg Castle barracks to Amalienborg Palace.
Head to the center of the city and spend time exploring the University of Copenhagen Botanical Garden, also simply known as the Copenhagen Botanical Garden. The garden is best known for its glasshouses that date back to 1874.
With over 13,000 different plant species, the Copenhagen Botanical Garden is one of the most impressive botanical gardens in Denmark. They even have an Arctic House that has plant species that thrive in the frigid climate of the Arctic.
Book your tickets for your next getaway to Copenhagen and explore this fantastic capital city while learning more about the Danish culture. Before landing, plan your itinerary to include 8 of the must-see attractions in Copenhagen.
You will not be disappointed when you stroll through palaces and castles, breathe in the freshness of the sea air, wander through unique museums, and meander through 24 acres of botanical gardens.