Copenhagen is a city that effortlessly balances history and modern life. Grand royal palaces sit alongside cutting-edge architecture, quiet canals meet buzzing neighbourhoods, and everyday routines are shaped by a deep-rooted appreciation for design, sustainability, and quality of life.
For visitors, the Danish capital offers far more than just a checklist of famous landmarks. It is a place to explore slowly, to observe local habits, and to discover why Copenhagen consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable cities. Here are ten essential things to do in Copenhagen that offer both classic sights and deeper cultural insight.
- Discover Danish culture through comedy at Copenhagen Show
One of the most unexpected and entertaining ways to understand Denmark is through humour. Copenhagen Show presents a live English-language comedy experience often described as “the truth about Denmark in 60 minutes of fun.”
Created with tourists and international visitors in mind, the show offers a fast-paced, humorous introduction to Danish culture, social norms, and everyday quirks. Rather than lectures or guided tours, it delivers cultural insight through stand-up comedy, storytelling, and sharp observations about life in Denmark.
The show takes place weekly and has become a popular stop for visitors looking to understand the Danish mindset while enjoying a relaxed evening of entertainment. It offers a refreshing alternative to traditional sightseeing and provides context that often makes the rest of the city easier to understand.
- Walk along the colourful harbour of Nyhavn
Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most recognisable sights. The historic harbour, lined with brightly painted townhouses from the 17th and 18th centuries, was once a busy commercial port. Today, it is a lively area filled with cafés, restaurants, and traditional wooden ships.
A walk along the canal is a must, whether during the day or in the evening. Nyhavn is also a popular starting point for canal tours, which offer a different perspective on the city’s architecture and waterways.
- Experience the magic of Tivoli Gardens
Located in the heart of the city, Tivoli Gardens is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Opened in 1843, it combines historic charm with modern rides, live performances, gardens, and restaurants.
Tivoli is just as much about atmosphere as it is about attractions. Seasonal decorations, concerts, and evening lights transform the park throughout the year, making it worth visiting even for those who are not interested in rides.
- Explore the alternative community of Freetown Christiania
Freetown Christiania is one of Copenhagen’s most talked-about neighbourhoods. Founded in the early 1970s, it operates as a self-governing community with its own rules and strong emphasis on art, creativity, and collective living.
Visitors can walk through green areas, see handmade houses, and explore workshops and cafés. Christiania offers a thought-provoking contrast to the rest of the city and remains one of Copenhagen’s most distinctive cultural experiences.
- Visit the Little Mermaid
Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale, the Little Mermaid statue sits quietly by the waterfront at Langelinie. While smaller than many expect, it has become one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
The surrounding area offers pleasant walks along the harbour and easy access to nearby attractions such as Kastellet, a well-preserved star-shaped fortress.
- Experience royal life at Amalienborg Palace
Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of the Danish royal family and a central part of Copenhagen’s historic identity. The palace complex consists of four identical rococo buildings surrounding a grand square.
Visitors can watch the changing of the Royal Guard at noon or explore the Amalienborg Museum, which offers insight into the monarchy’s history and daily life.
- See the city by bicycle
Cycling is deeply embedded in Copenhagen’s culture. With extensive bike lanes and flat terrain, the city is designed for two wheels.
Renting a bicycle allows visitors to move easily between neighbourhoods, experience the city like a local, and reach areas that are less accessible by car or public transport. It is often the fastest and most enjoyable way to explore the city.
- Taste Copenhagen’s food scene
Copenhagen has earned international recognition for its culinary scene, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual street food markets.
Traditional Danish dishes such as smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) sit alongside innovative New Nordic cuisine. Local bakeries offer pastries that are an essential part of daily life, while food markets like Torvehallerne provide a wide range of options for every budget.
- Relax in the King’s Garden and visit Rosenborg Castle
The King’s Garden (Kongens Have) is the city’s oldest royal garden and a favourite meeting place for locals. In good weather, it is ideal for a picnic or a quiet break from sightseeing.
At the centre of the garden stands Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance palace that houses the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia. The combination of green space and history makes this one of Copenhagen’s most pleasant stops.
- Explore Danish design and art
Danish design is known worldwide for its simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship. Copenhagen offers numerous opportunities to explore this tradition, from museums and galleries to everyday architecture and interior design shops.
The Designmuseum Danmark is a good starting point, but simply walking through the city reveals how design influences everything from public spaces to furniture and lighting.
Practical tips for visiting Copenhagen
Copenhagen is easy to navigate, and English is widely spoken. The city is compact and well connected by public transport, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Weather can change quickly, so layers are recommended year-round.
Many attractions are included in the Copenhagen Card, which offers unlimited public transport and free admission to selected sights.
More than a city of sights
Copenhagen is best experienced by combining famous landmarks with moments of cultural understanding. Whether it is cycling through the streets, enjoying local food, or laughing at Danish habits during a comedy show, the city reveals itself through everyday life as much as through monuments.
These ten experiences offer a well-rounded introduction to Copenhagen and provide a deeper understanding of what makes the Danish capital unique.