It’s better to see something once than to hear about it a thousand times.
Copenhagen isn’t just another city; it’s a city that not only lives life but also perfects it. I now view a capital city, thanks to living here, as a place with sincere hygge, clean design, and a complete commitment to happiness. I’ve walked through these cobblestone streets in the snow, ridden through the open streets during springtime on my bike and seen how this harbour area has gone from a working port to a stunning swimming pool with clear water.
Welcome to Copenhagen! I want to share my love for this amazing city with you, a love that goes well beyond what the tourist brochures show you. Forget all checklists, and let me tell you how to see Denmark magically and cheaply; this is my chance to put my heart into yours. You might be wondering, is Copenhagen worth visiting, and I assure you, it absolutely is.
Before we go further on our journey, I think it is fitting to begin with a quote that captures how I feel about this beautiful, peaceful city.
I have been changed forever after looking at the moon from the other side of the world.
When we look at the same moon from different perspectives, we change! That’s how Copenhagen will be for you when you explore this incredible destination, and I invite you to explore it with me. Everything in this guide has been chosen based on what will give you the best experience, including truly memorable experiences, cost-free activities, and the best tips from friendly locals about the attractions that aren’t worth spending your time and money on.
1. The Untitled Crown Jewels of Copenhagen: Fantastically Beautiful Things That Are Free
Copenhagen has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities to visit, but it is nice to know that it offers many incredible and beautiful things to do in Copenhagen that you don’t have to pay for, and as a traveller, I know how satisfying it is to have an experience that positively impacts me and at the same time doesn’t result in going broke. If you’re looking for free things to do in Copenhagen, this section is for you.
The Amazing View from the Tower of Christiansborg Palace
Many travellers are surprised to find that the view from the tower on top of Christiansborg Palace, which houses the Danish Parliament, is not only very good but is completely free! Instead of having to pay to go up to the observation decks like at other places, this means you can take a shortcut up to the top of the fantastic skyline of Copenhagen! All you have to do is go in, hop in the elevator, and see the entire city laid out in front of you, with a sea of bright red roofs, bright copper spires, and the beautiful blue water of the Øresund Strait. You can also use this as a great place to get your bearings when you are visiting the city and to appreciate its compact size.
The Tranquil Star of Kastellet
The Tranquil Star of Kastellet is one of my favourite places to walk and contemplate in a relaxed state. This magnificent star-shaped citadel from the 17th century is still an active military site but is open to everyone without any fees. It is so well-maintained, includes a lovely church, and boasts the most well-known windmill anywhere! Walking on the ramparts is similar to going back a century, and walking on the deserted pathways surrounding the moat is peaceful from the noise of the city. Enjoy your time and breathe deeply of the clean outdoor air while feeling the history here.
Morning Charm in Nyhavn
When you visit Nyhavn, one of the most iconic locations in Copenhagen, you must also go early in the day. The reason I say go early is that it is incredibly busy during the middle of the day. I would recommend being in Nyhavn when the sun rises, around 8:00 a.m., so you are there before all of the tourists show up and before the restaurant workers begin to set up their tables. At that time, the light is soft and warm, and the water in the canal is still and calm. The homes along the canal are beautiful, but at that hour, they are almost glowing with their
The most beautiful part of going to Nyhavn at that time is the peace and quiet, because there are no tourists or workers, and you are able to witness an amazing view of beauty. The only cost for this experience is an early wake-up call! This is one of the most fun things to do in Copenhagen that costs nothing.
Picnicking in Kongens Have
Kongens Have (the King’s Garden), located in the centre of town, is the summer living room for Copenhagen. Within its gates, you will find Rosenborg Castle, but the real attraction is the park itself. You can take a break at one of the local bakeries for a Danish pastry and coffee or purchase from a supermarket (some supermarkets sell pre-made picnic baskets). Spread out your blanket on the beautiful grassy area, and relax with the locals as they soak up the sun; by doing this, you will be embracing the Danish way of life. This is one of the best Copenhagen parks and gardens for relaxing. If you’d like to explore even more green spaces around the city, check out the official guide to Copenhagen’s parks and gardens.
A Grand Display of Tradition: The Changing of the Guard
Like most other major European capitals, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is a fun and free daily event that takes place at Amalienborg Palace. The ceremony typically occurs at 12:00 p.m., and it starts a little before noon from the barracks that are located by Rosenborg Castle, making its way to the main palace square. This grand ceremony is part of the Danish royal traditions, and is an impressive event that every visitor should experience while in Copenhagen for the first time. For a full historical immersion, you can also explore the interior of this and other Copenhagen castles.
2. Experience Local Life in Copenhagen: My Unique Experience
To get to know the real side of Copenhagen, you need to step away from the traditional tourist routes and dive headfirst into Denmark’s way of life. You do this by moving about the city, taking part in activities and engaging with the culture directly. If you are questioning is Copenhagen worth visiting, embracing these local activities will answer with a resounding yes.
Get on Two Wheels
In order to discover Copenhagen, you must rent a bike while in the city. Biking is not just something you do for fun, but it is also part of your everyday lifestyle. Biking in Copenhagen has some of the best infrastructure in the world, providing safe, fast and effective commuting options to bike users with dedicated bike lanes on nearly every street in the city. You can rent a bike from your hotel or one of the many bike rental apps, such as Donkey Republic. Enjoy riding around the city and exploring as you go. Biking will enable you to find local cafes, parks, and all the unique things to do in Copenhagen that make up the cultural heart of Copenhagen, while allowing you to see what life truly feels like here. Biking is an experience that allows you to feel the heartbeat of the city.
Christianshavn has a Maritime Atmosphere
Upon entering Christianshavn after crossing the bridge from the main city centre, I am reminded of how much I love this part of Copenhagen. This wonderful area was developed around a system of canals, which gives it a distinct nautical feeling associated with Dutch architecture. It is also one of the less populated areas, containing more of a bohemian and village atmosphere than many other parts of the city.
I enjoy walking down Christianshavns Kanal, observing the houseboats that dot the canal and admiring the colourful houses that line the canal’s edge. Christianshavn is the location of the magnificent Baroque spire of the Church of Our Saviour. The spire is well-known for its spiral staircase that goes up to its top (this can be a strenuous ascent). Please note that the spiral is quite tight and can be windy! If you are looking for unique things to do in Copenhagen, exploring this charming district should be at the top of your list. For a lovely, self-guided experience, consider this a great start to your own Copenhagen walking tour.
BaneGaarden’s Hidden Garden
If you’re looking for something truly unique, take a trip out to BaneGaarden, located in Sydhavn. BaneGaarden is one of the best-kept secrets in Copenhagen. Surrounded by nine ancient railway freight buildings, this beautiful cultural space was transformed into a sustainable cultural space filled with food stalls and shops in the summer months. At this location, you will find a true sense of Danish hygge away from the beaten tourist path; riding your bicycle there will seem like you are in on a secret. Discovering hidden gems like this is one of the most rewarding fun things to do in Copenhagen.
If you want even more inspiration for understanding Denmark as a whole, take a look at our guide on reasons to visit Denmark, which beautifully complements everything you’re discovering here in Copenhagen.
Danish Hygge Through Food: Communal Dinner at Absalon
An easy way to experience ‘hygge’ is by eating dinner at a communal table at ‘Absalon’ in Vesterbro. ‘Absalon’ is a converted old church that now accommodates thousands of local and visiting members of the Danish community, plus it’s become very popular for its dining experience. The ‘Absalon’ dinners are very affordable, with a maximum of 100 diners seated at a time. Dinner at ‘Absalon’ is loud and welcoming, making it an easy place to meet and make new friends. The atmosphere of friendship, warmth and community is created when we all share a meal. When you visit ‘Absalon’, be sure to try the communal dinner; it’s not just a great experience for yourself, but you will also leave with new friendships created through your experience. Look into Copenhagen food and cafes for more authentic dining experiences like this.
Harbour Baths: Unleash the Viking Within!
The waters of Copenhagen’s harbour are clean enough for swimming, which is a monumental achievement by the city. If you have the opportunity to take a swim at any of the “harbour baths” (Islands Brygge or Kalvebod Brygge), take advantage of it! Locals often swim in this area, even during the winter; bring a towel and warm clothing so you can dry off quickly! Once you are done, prepare to be completely revitalised by your experience! The harbour baths are a perfect example of Copenhagen’s combination of modernity and respect for the environment. Experiencing the fresh water is one of the must-do things to do in Copenhagen.
Budget-friendly travellers might enjoy the Copenhagen Card, which bundles top attractions and public transport into a single ticket.
3. Cautionary Notes and Things to Skip: My Recommendations
As a local guide for Copenhagen, it is my job to give you the “straight scoop” about how to ensure that your experience will be as enjoyable as possible. While Copenhagen has many beautiful attractions, there are also many pitfalls associated with them. By avoiding these pitfalls, you will greatly improve your entire trip experience. While I don’t list specific Copenhagen museums to skip, I focus on other overly touristed spots.
The Little Mermaid statue (Den Lille Havfrue): Crowds to Avoid
To be candid, the Little Mermaid statue is one of the biggest letdowns from a tourist standpoint. While the Little Mermaid is an iconic figure in Denmark, she is surprisingly small compared to what most people expect to see when they see a statue. There is typically a large mass of tourists all trying to take pictures of the statue. Rather than making the long trek over to Langelinie to see the statue, I recommend that you spend this time walking around the bastion fortress of Kastellet and visiting the nearby Gefion Fountain for some stunning pictures of the Danish capital as well as many examples of Denmark’s history in the area. This area offers better sights for a Copenhagen walking tour.
Dining on Nyhavn – The Price Trap
Nyhavn is beautiful, but the restaurants are expensive and geared toward tourists, offering low-quality meals for a lot of money. That’s a lot of money just to eat by the canals.
You can have a view of Nyhavn for free by having a picnic lunch in one of the parks near the canal. There are two good grocery stores nearby where you can buy inexpensive food: Netto and Irma. This is a great tip for finding free things to do in Copenhagen while enjoying the view.
If you want something to eat at night, go to Kødbyen, the meatpacking district, where there are plenty of different restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere. You can also find many more authentic restaurants in Vesterbro and Nørrebro, both of which are great places to experience the city’s culture. Knowing where to eat is one of the essential things to do in Copenhagen. Your wallet and your waistline will thank you.
Overtourism in Freetown Christiania
Christiania in Freetown is probably one of the most original neighbourhoods in the world and is a significant part of the social history of Copenhagen. Freetown is made up of a mix of local residents and tourists who visit the neighbourhood. While it is a good option for tourists who want to see something different from the usual tourist hotspots, some of the areas, especially “Pusher Street”, have gotten really touristy and can create a lot of tension between the locals and tourist visitors.
Here is my recommendation: You would do best just walking around the cool, residential areas of Freetown, enjoying the lakes and the community vibe. But, please, don’t take photos of people or go into or around the “Pusher Street” area, and keep in mind that Freetown is a community and not an attraction!
Expensive Sightseeing Cruises
Many tourists choose to take the most widely advertised and costly boat tours from Nyhavn or Gammel Strand. However, an equally enjoyable and much more budget-friendly way to see the city’s harbours from a boat is by using the Yellow Harbour Buses (Havnebusser). Since these are a part of the city’s public transportation system, you can pay for a regular all-day travel ticket on the city’s network of buses and/or trains and also ride these boats as many times as you wish throughout the day. If you’re travelling in a group, another great option is to rent a small solar-powered GoBoat and go on a self-guided tour. Not only can you have fun starting and stopping where you like, but it’s also an economical alternative to traditional Canal tours in Copenhagen. This is one of the best value fun things to do in Copenhagen.
The Magic Lingers
My hope is that the information provided in this article will give you a new way of looking at one of the greatest cities in Europe, the lovely city of Copenhagen. While you are travelling to Copenhagen, I encourage you to slow down and appreciate the simple yet beautiful design details that make up your daily experience in this incredible city, including the use of “hygge”, a Danish word that means to be warm, comfortable, and friendly. You’ll quickly see is Copenhagen worth visiting.
Make sure to take part in the many bike rides offered by Copenhagen, swim in the pristine and cool waters of Copenhagen’s harbour, and indulge yourself with a pastry that can change the way you live. Don’t forget to explore beyond the major streets, speak with the locals, and get to know Copenhagen’s culture and refined character. Planning a trip to this beautiful city means listing out all the amazing things to do in Copenhagen and making your visit memorable. Low Cost Vibes can help guide you to the best experiences and hidden gems while travelling.
May the joy and rediscovery I feel each time I step outside my home accompany you as you begin your journey through Denmark. Travel safely and enjoy your visit to this great city! As we say here, “Vi ses!”
FAQs about Things to Do in Copenhagen
Yes, but this guide will provide you with many free and inexpensive opportunities to explore the city and make it a more rewarding experience.
If you’re looking for crowds and a small statue, then you should skip the Mermaid statue. Instead, visit Kastellet and the Gefion Fountain.
Rent a bike! Biking is the way of life here, and Copenhagen has an amazing bike infrastructure.
Don’t eat at Nyhavn. It’s very touristy and overpriced. Try Vesterbro, Nørrebro or Kødbyen instead.
Take advantage of the Yellow Boats (Havnebusser), the public harbour bus system.
