Yes, Copenhagen is worth visiting. It delivers centuries of Viking history, some of the happiest locals on the planet and a skyline that blends 17th-century spires with sustainable design, all in a city small enough to explore on foot or by bike.
As the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen offers a unique opportunity to explore a blend of old and new. Modern and innovative architecture, sustainable living practices and futuristic amenities make this city vibrant in its own way. The city combines that with some of the most interesting history in Northern Europe.
Let the team at AAA help you create a memorable experience when planning your next Denmark vacation, so you can explore all that a trip to Copenhagen can offer.
10 Reasons to Visit Copenhagen
Copenhagen truly offers something for everyone. It’s a welcoming community where people are known to greet you with a smile and offer some fabulous food and drink. Though many come for the Viking history, what you’ll find is a city built around bike lanes, sleek Scandinavian design and a slower, more balanced way of life.
From the picturesque waterfront lined with colorful buildings to the fascinating Tivoli Gardens amusement park, Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for travelers of all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Copenhagen when you visit:
1. Take in the Waterfront District
The iconic Nyhavn district on Copenhagen’s waterfront is a must for anyone visiting the city for the first (or 10th) time. It’s full of brightly colored row homes, many of which date to the 17th century. The waterfront offers a busy promenade where you can walk along to enjoy a coffee or a drink.
You can hop on a boat tour of Copenhagen to see the harbor from the water, or rent a kayak and paddle the canals yourself for a closer look at the row homes. Since Nyhavn sits just a short walk from Copenhagen Central Station, it's an easy first stop after you check into your hotel — grab a table at one of the canal-side cafes and watch the boats go by as you get your bearings on your first night in town.
Hungry while you’re out here? Head to Torvehallerne’s glass-covered market halls for smørrebrød (an open-faced Danish rye sandwich piled with toppings like pickled herring or roast beef) and fresh pastries, or venture out to the waterfront stalls at Reffen for a laid-back meal with harbor views.
2. Be in Awe at the Frederick’s Church
Also known as the Marble Church, Frederick’s Church is in the Old Town area of Copenhagen. When you look up, you’ll notice the incredibly large copper dome at the top, one of the largest such domes in Europe. The entire structure was designed after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, right down to the marble columns lining the entrance.
Inside, the neoclassical church comes to life with a spacious, open interior that lets light stream in through tall arched windows. It has numerous stucco decorations, frescoes and stunning architectural elements. Sit down for a moment while you’re here to take in the detailed paintings and architectural touches.
3. Marvel at the Copenhagen University Library
The 15th-century Copenhagen University Library is one of the best examples of a “long room,” with pointed arches, ribbed vaulting and floor-to-ceiling wooden bookshelves running the length of the hall. Designed by Johan Daniel Herholdt, the building won an award in 1861 for its detailed workmanship.
Though the library wasn’t always open to the public, it is now, on a limited schedule. You can book a free guided tour at the library when you arrive to learn more about the history of this location, or you can explore the library as one of the stops on many popular Copenhagen sightseeing tours.
4. Check Out the Tivoli Gardens
The Tivoli Gardens is a wondrous location to visit, offering a unique experience even for those not typically interested in gardens. It’s one of the oldest and best theme parks in the world. Walt Disney reportedly drew inspiration for his famous parks from a visit to Tivoli Gardens.
When you visit, you’ll be able to see a variety of amusement park rides, some fun foods and lots of smaller shops. Bright colors, fantastic theming and even late-night fun are common here, making it a great activity for any age. You’ll want to pick up a ride pass so that you can enjoy any of the amusement rides you like.
5. Explore the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is worth carving out a half day for, even if you don’t consider yourself an art person. It’s about 35 minutes north of the city by train and set in a park overlooking the Øresund Strait.
The museum blends Danish modernist architecture with a sculpture garden featuring works by Alexander Calder and Henry Moore, plus a permanent collection that includes Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama's mirrored "Gleaming Lights of the Souls" installation.
Plan to spend at least two hours here, though many visitors end up staying longer. Grab lunch at the museum café overlooking the water, browse the design shop and catch a direct regional train back to Copenhagen Central Station from Humlebæk station when you're ready to head back.
6. Explore the Castles
Denmark is known for its castles and you’ll find a few of them in Copenhagen worthy of exploring. Though each offers something a bit different, every one of them is worth a trip:
- Rosenborg Castle: Rosenborg Castle is perhaps one of the most impressive castles in the country. It was built in 1606 by Christian IV.
- Amalienborg Palace: Amalienborg Palace is the castle where the Danish royal family lives.
- Kronborg Castle: A bit farther away, Kronborg Castle is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Christiansborg Palace: Christiansborg Palace is more than 800 years old and is used by the Royal family for official state events.
Some of the castles in Copenhagen are truly worth spending hours exploring and learning about the intricate details.
7. See the Kastelllet and Little Mermaid
Though Instagram made the Little Mermaid statue famous, it’s certainly worth seeing in person. You’ll also want to explore the surrounding area of Kastellet. King Christian IV built this star-shaped fortress in the 17th century and it’s been beautifully preserved for hundreds of years.
You can tour the area and see the architecture up close. There used to be a moat around the fortress, although today it’s more of a waterfront park that welcomes visitors with its well-maintained gardens. Make sure you look out for the windmill that’s also several hundred years old.
8. Sip at the Carlsberg Brewery
For a change of pace from castles and churches, head to the Carlsberg Brewery for a hands-on look at how beer gets made, plus a tasting at the end. Originally founded in 1847, it’s now the fourth-largest producer of beer around the world.
You can take a tour through the brewing facility and learn a bit about the area’s history, including the largest collection of beer bottles in the world on display in the visitor center. Afterward, grab a seat in the courtyard and enjoy a drink on a warm day.
8. Check Out Freetown Christiania
For a very unique experience, head to Freetown Christiania. The Danish military abandoned this base in the 1970s and it’s now an autonomous community of about 1,000 residents who seek alternative living.
If you’re curious about a different side of Copenhagen, it’s worth a stroll through Christiania’s winding, car-free paths. Hand-built homes covered in murals and street art line the way and small shops sell handmade jewelry, pottery and woodwork made by residents.
Stop at Café Nemoland or Månefiskeren for a coffee or a bite, then follow the path along the old moat for a quiet view back toward the city skyline.
10. Find the Trolls
Trolls are a fun part of Danish folklore and Copenhagen has plenty of them to track down. Large-scale wooden trolls sit tucked into meadows and parks throughout the city, including the six forgotten giants, a set of hidden sculptures along a walking path just outside town. Ask a local for pointers, keep your eyes peeled as you explore and you'll turn a simple walk in the park into a bit of a scavenger hunt.
How to Get Around Copenhagen
Even for tourists, navigating Copenhagen isn’t challenging. You can walk to many destinations, bike or use public transportation, often very affordably. Depending on your goals and preferred mode of transportation, you’ll likely find it easy to get from one destination to the next. Here are some options:
- By Metro: Perhaps the best option for those who want a straightforward solution and don’t mind a bit of walking. The Metro is available 24 hours a day and operates as fully automated driverless trains.
- By Foot: The downtown areas, including where you’ll find some of the best museums, are accessible only on foot or by bike. These locations are within a few blocks of each other, making getting around easier. You can rent a bike through several services here, including Donkey Republic.
- By Bus: The city operates buses throughout the day and night, though there are far fewer in the evening hours. The bus network operates in conjunction with the Metro, providing good overall access to the city.
- By Rideshare service: There are rideshare services and a network of taxis available in Copenhagen. They can be rather expensive, but they offer a straightforward option for those looking for direct travel.
- Renting a car: You can also rent a car in Copenhagen, which is typically booked in advance through various services. You can pick up your rental at the airport and navigate the city and region on your own.
Many visitors also pick up a Copenhagen Card, which bundles unlimited public transportation — including rides to and from the airport — with free entry to more than 80 attractions across the city and region. If you plan to hit three or more paid attractions a day, the card typically pays for itself and saves you from juggling individual tickets.
When is the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen?
A visit to Copenhagen is easy to arrange throughout the year, though some seasons suit certain travelers better than others. Here's a quick breakdown of what to expect:
- Summer (June–August): The warmest and busiest season, with long daylight hours, outdoor festivals and tourism-driven discounts, but also the heaviest crowds and traffic.
- Spring (April–May): Mild and often still cool, with blooming flowers and cherry blossoms and noticeably fewer tourists than in summer.
- Fall (September–October): Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage make this a relaxing, less crowded alternative to spring.
- Winter (November–March): Cold and dark, but Copenhagen leans into it with Tivoli’s holiday markets and cozy hygge culture. Plus, Copenhagen hotel rates tend to drop in the winter.
If you want to avoid the busy tourism period, spring or fall generally offers the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds.
FAQs
When you are planning a Copenhagen trip, you need details. Here are some of the most FAQs about taking a trip to the capital of Denmark.
What do I need to travel to Copenhagen?
If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can visit Copenhagen with your passport. You don’t need a visa unless you plan to stay 90 days or more within a 180-day period. However, your passport must be valid for at least three months after your arrival day.
The EU's new ETIAS travel authorization is expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026, with enforcement phasing in through early 2027, so check the ETIAS requirements again closer to your travel dates.
How many days do you need to see Copenhagen?
As one of the larger and most interesting cities in Northern Europe, plan to ideally spend 3 to 4 days exploring Copenhagen. That’ll give you access to some of the best amenities, restaurants and local cultures. You could spend more time in the city, or you could also explore nearby areas of Denmark, including cities such as Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, or Roskilde, with its rich Viking history.
Is Copenhagen safe?
Yes, Copenhagen is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world, with low rates of violent crime and a visible police presence around major sights. As in any big city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots such as Nyhavn, Strøget and Central Station, where pickpocketing is the most common issue tourists run into.
Is Copenhagen expensive?
Copenhagen is one of the pricier cities in Europe for meals, museum admission and hotels, especially compared to Southern Europe. You can manage the cost by using public transportation instead of taxis, eating at food halls such as Torvehallerne or Reffen instead of sit-down restaurants and picking up a Copenhagen Card if you plan to visit several paid attractions.
What are some of the best restaurants in Copenhagen?
Copenhagen’s dining scene ranges from Diamond-designated tasting menus to casual smørrebrød counters, so there’s something for every budget and taste. Browse AAA’s current picks for restaurants in Copenhagen, or book a foodie tour of Copenhagen to sample several spots in one outing.
Travel to Copenhagen With Help From AAA
Copenhagen is absolutely worth visiting. From centuries-old castles and world-class Copenhagen attractions to waterfront food markets, this Danish capital rewards travelers who want a mix of history, design and genuine Danish hygge.
Ready to start planning? Let AAA Travel help you build an itinerary that fits your pace. A AAA Travel professional can help you book flights, hotels and tours in one place, so nothing falls through the cracks. AAA Membership also gets you savings on travel and more, so you can put more of your budget toward the trip itself.