Copenhagen New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Copenhagen, New York.
1. Tivoli Gardens
MAGICAL AMUSEMENT WONDERLAND
Tivoli Gardens is the most popular attraction in all of Denmark, welcoming over 4 million visitors every year to experience its wonderful atmosphere, wild rides, restaurants, and concerts. Visitors can enjoy this world-class amusement park during regular season as well as special holiday periods including Halloween, Christmas, New Year, and the winter season in February. The historic gardens offer something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to those simply wanting to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
2. Nyhavn
COLORFUL HARBOR DISTRICT
Nyhavn is a charming waterfront district lined with brightly colored 17th and 18th century townhouses, restaurants, and bars that has become an iconic symbol of Copenhagen. Visitors can stroll along the canal, admire the historic wooden ships, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the city. This picturesque harbor area serves as a perfect starting point for canal tours and is one of the most photographed locations in the Danish capital.
3. The Little Mermaid Statue
ICONIC LITERARY MONUMENT
The Little Mermaid statue is a bronze sculpture displayed on a rock by the waterside at the Langelinie promenade, paying homage to Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale. Despite its modest size, this iconic landmark has become one of Copenhagen's most visited attractions since its unveiling in 1913. Travelers from around the world make the pilgrimage to this waterfront site to see the wistful mermaid gazing out to sea, representing a character who gave up everything for love.
4. Rosenborg Castle
ROYAL RENAISSANCE TREASURE
Rosenborg Castle is an elegant Renaissance castle built by Christian IV in the early 17th century that now houses a museum containing royal artifacts of tremendous cultural value. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors featuring the Knights' Hall with the coronation thrones and three life-size silver lions standing guard, as well as an extensive collection of royal art, crown jewels, and regalia. The castle is surrounded by the King's Garden (Kongens Have), Copenhagen's oldest royal garden, where locals and tourists alike gather to relax during summer months.
5. Freetown Christiania
ALTERNATIVE AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY
Freetown Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood covering 34 hectares in the borough of Christianshavn, established by squatters and hippies in 1971 on the site of a former military base. This unique social experiment operates with its own set of rules independent of the Danish government and is known for its colorful houses, open cannabis trade on Pusher Street (despite its technically illegal status), and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the area's eclectic architecture, art galleries, music venues, and organic eateries while experiencing a distinctly alternative side of Copenhagen culture.
6. The Royal Palace Amalienborg
MAJESTIC ROYAL RESIDENCE
The Royal Palace Amalienborg serves as the winter residence of the Danish royal family and consists of four identical classical palace façades with rococo interiors arranged around an octagonal courtyard. Visitors can witness the changing of the Royal Guard daily at noon and explore the Amalienborg Museum for an intimate look at the history and lives of Denmark's royal family. The elegant palace complex, designed by architect Nicolai Eigtved in the 1700s, represents some of the most important Rococo architecture in Denmark and offers insight into the monarchy's ongoing role in Danish society.
7. Refshaleøen
TRENDY INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT
Refshaleøen is a former industrial shipyard area that has transformed into one of Copenhagen's hippest districts, filled with creative spaces, food markets, and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy the Copenhagen Street Food market at Reffen, featuring over 50 food stalls serving global cuisine made from local ingredients, or check out cutting-edge art installations and performances. This waterfront neighborhood exemplifies Copenhagen's talent for urban renewal, turning industrial spaces into vibrant cultural hubs while maintaining their rough-around-the-edges charm.
8. Kastellet
HISTORIC STAR FORTRESS
Kastellet is one of the best preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe, constructed in the 17th century as part of Copenhagen's defense system. Today, this pentagonal military structure serves as a public park where visitors can walk along the ramparts, explore historic buildings including a church and windmill, and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor. Located near The Little Mermaid statue, this tranquil green space offers both historical significance and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center.
9. Copenhagen University Library
ARCHITECTURAL BOOK PARADISE
Copenhagen University Library, also known as The Black Diamond due to its distinctive black granite exterior and irregular angles, is an architectural marvel extending from the Royal Library. Visitors can admire the stunning atrium with its wave-like balconies, explore the extensive collection of historical texts, or attend cultural events in the concert hall. This modern waterfront building, designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen architects and completed in 1999, beautifully contrasts with Copenhagen's historic architecture while serving as both an important academic resource and cultural center.
10. Frederik's Church (Marble Church)
MAGNIFICENT DOMED LANDMARK
Frederik's Church, commonly known as The Marble Church, boasts the largest church dome in Scandinavia inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Visitors can admire the impressive rococo architecture, intricate interior decorations, and climb the dome for panoramic views of Copenhagen's historic center. Located near Amalienborg Palace, this magnificent church with its distinctive copper-green dome forms an important part of the Frederiksstaden district, one of the most distinguished rococo complexes in Europe.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY PARADISE
Shopping in Copenhagen offers everything from the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe, Strøget, lined with international brands, Danish design stores, and historic shops, to the upscale department store Illum and the unique boutiques of the Latin Quarter. Visitors can explore the covered market Torvehallerne for gourmet food products or browse cutting-edge Danish design at stores like Hay House, Georg Jensen, and Royal Copenhagen. For vintage treasures and independent designers, the side streets of Nørrebro and Vesterbro neighborhoods reveal hidden gems that showcase Copenhagen's renowned sense of style and creativity.
12. Dining
CULINARY INNOVATION HUB
Dining in Copenhagen has earned international acclaim with renowned restaurants like Noma (frequently named the world's best restaurant) pioneering New Nordic cuisine focusing on local, seasonal ingredients prepared with innovative techniques. Visitors can sample traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) at historic establishments like Restaurant Schønnemann or explore the diverse food scene at Torvehallerne market and Reffen street food market. Beyond the Michelin-starred experiences, Copenhagen offers cozy neighborhood restaurants, gourmet hot dog stands, and exceptional bakeries like Hart Bageri, all reflecting the city's passionate culinary culture and commitment to sustainability.
13. Hiking
URBAN NATURE ESCAPES
Hiking in Copenhagen provides unexpected natural retreats within this urban capital, with Dyrehaven (The Deer Park) offering 11 square kilometers of ancient oak forests where visitors can spot free-roaming deer and follow scenic marked trails. Nature enthusiasts can explore the extensive path network around Damhussøen lake and Utterslev Mose wetlands, observing diverse bird species while enjoying peaceful waterside views just a short distance from the city center. For a unique hiking experience, the Amager Nature Park combines beaches, meadows and forests across 35 square kilometers of protected land, accessible via public transport and featuring well-maintained paths perfect for day hikes without leaving the greater Copenhagen area.
14. Fishing
URBAN ANGLING ADVENTURES
Fishing in Copenhagen offers the unique opportunity to cast a line right in the heart of the city at spots like Nyhavn canal, Kastellet moat, or the popular fishing zone at Svanemøllen Harbor where anglers regularly catch herring, cod, and sea trout. The clean waters of Copenhagen Harbor, following years of environmental improvement efforts, now support diverse marine life, allowing visitors to enjoy recreational fishing from designated platforms along the waterfront promenades and bridges. For a more immersive fishing experience, guided boat trips depart from Nyhavn to the Øresund strait between Denmark and Sweden, where deeper waters yield larger catches while providing spectacular views of the Copenhagen skyline.
15. Camping
SCENIC OUTDOOR RETREATS
Camping near Copenhagen allows visitors to combine urban exploration with outdoor recreation at sites like Absalon Camping, located just 8 kilometers from the city center with excellent public transport connections and facilities including modern bathrooms and a communal kitchen. Nature lovers appreciate Bellevue Strand Camping situated beside one of Denmark's best beaches with views of Sweden across the Øresund strait, offering both tent pitches and cabin rentals within a short train ride to central Copenhagen. For a unique experience, Copenhagen's innovative urban camping concept at Urban Camp provides comfortable sleeping pods and glamping tents in a former industrial area of Refshaleøen, combining the camping spirit with proximity to the city's attractions and vibrant neighborhood.