Things to do in Copenhagen for self travelers
Enjoy self-guided audio tours with included attraction tickets in one appAll self-guided activities
Welcome to Copenhagen! This tour will take you through this hip, bohemian, cultural, historical, and relaxed capital. To describe Copenhagen is like trying to define the sky; this city is a personal experience, and depending on who you are, you will find different things that attract you and mean something special to you. On this tour, you will see great architectural sites: the Rosenborg Castle, which is considered the home of some of Denmark's most significant cultural treasures, the Round Tower – the oldest observatory in Europe, the Amalienborg – the famous symbol of Copenhagen, and many more. You will feel the rebellious spirit in Christiania – a country inside the city where street art and chaos rule. You will also visit the beloved places of the locals – the Brew Pub, Bar Oscar, and bakery in Tivoli Gardens. And, of course, we haven't forgotten about the Little Mermaid and other must-see sights ;) So no matter what kind of person you are, and whether you are into amusement parks, history, modern art, underground culture, architecture, music, beer, or Danish pastry, you will indeed find the sides of Copenhagen that you love! Because nobody walks through this city untouched; if it is something Copenhagen has got – it is attitude and personality! But let's stop talking and get going; we have a marvelous city to explore and don't forget we are in the capital of "hygge," the Danish word for a good and cozy ambiance, so let's go enjoy it!
This self-guided audio walking tour explores Copenhagen’s best-known sights, royal landmarks, museums, and lively local favorites. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad introduction to the Danish capital, from fairy-tale icons and historic palaces to bakeries, waterfront streets, and modern culture. The route begins at Tivoli Gardens in the heart of the city, then moves past Andersen Bakery and Copenhagen City Hall before joining Strøget, one of Europe’s famous pedestrian shopping streets. From there, you continue to the Round Tower, Rosenborg Castle, and SMK, then follow the city outward to Kastellet and the Little Mermaid. The walk then turns back through the harbor side, with stops linked to Hans Christian Andersen, Amalienborg Palace, Nyhavn, Christiania, Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Stables, the National Museum of Denmark, and the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. The tour finishes at Vega, one of Copenhagen’s notable music venues. Along the way, travelers can expect a rich mix of grand royal architecture, canal views, fortress ramparts, museum treasures, fresh pastries, and the unmistakable atmosphere of Nyhavn. The most memorable moments include seeing the Little Mermaid by the water, looking up at palace courtyards, strolling through historic streets, and discovering how Copenhagen balances fairy-tale history with modern city life.
This self-guided audio walking tour explores the historic center of Copenhagen and is ideal for first-time visitors who want a clear introduction to the city’s streets, squares, and landmarks. You will hear the story of old Copenhagen while standing in places where daily life, trade, faith, and royal ambition still shape what you see. The route begins in Copenhagen’s city center and leads you into the old urban core, starting at Nytorv and neighboring Gammeltorv, the city’s oldest market area. From there, you continue to the Church of Our Lady, where C.F. Hansen’s neoclassical design and Bertel Thorvaldsen’s famous statues give the interior its calm, monumental character. The walk then reaches the Botanical Garden, Denmark’s largest plant collection, before turning toward the 17th-century Round Tower with its distinctive spiral ramp and observatory. After that, you move through Gråbrødretorv and along Strøget, the busy pedestrian street lined with shopfronts, café tables, and street life, before finishing at Amagertorv. Along the way, the most memorable moments include the broad cobbled squares, the cathedral’s pale columns and sculptures, the glasshouses and greenery of the garden, the unusual curve inside the Round Tower, and the lively sound and movement of one of Europe’s best-known shopping streets.
This self-guided audio walking tour explores central Copenhagen through its royal landmarks, waterfront streets, and cultural spaces. It suits first-time visitors who want a clear introduction to the city’s character, from parliament and palaces to canals, churches, and theaters. Your route starts in Copenhagen’s historic center and leads first to Ved Stranden, where colorful facades face the canal. From there, you continue to Christiansborg Palace, seat of the Danish Parliament and a royal site layered over medieval ruins. The walk then moves to Nikolaj Art Gallery, a former church turned contemporary art space, and on to Kunsthal Charlottenborg near the grand square of Kongens Nytorv. Next, you follow the water to Nyhavn, where bright 17th-century townhouses and old wooden ships create one of the city’s most recognizable views. The route continues past the sleek waterside Playhouse and across to the striking Opera House on the harbor front. You then head to Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family, before reaching Frederik's Church with its vast dome, and finishing at Sankt Annæ Plads. Along the way, you will remember the shimmer of canals, the contrast between baroque palaces and modern theater buildings, the open harbor air, and the sight of Copenhagen at its most elegant and alive.
This self-guided audio walking tour introduces first-time visitors to Copenhagen through its grand landmarks, waterfront views, and royal corners. It suits travelers who enjoy city history, architecture, art, and the everyday atmosphere of streets shaped by canals and the sea. Your route begins in central Copenhagen and leads first to Tivoli Gardens, where historic rides and glowing park gates set a lively tone. From there, you continue to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek for art and sculpture, then to Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament and royal reception rooms. The walk carries you onward to the Black Diamond extension of the Royal Library, along Christianshavn Canal, past Børsen, and into colorful Nyhavn. The final stretch follows the harbor toward the Opera House, the striking slope of CopenHill, the dramatic figures of the Gefion Fountain, and the small bronze Little Mermaid looking out over the water. You also pass the green ramparts of Kastellet and the great dome of Frederik's Church before ending at Amalienborg Palace, the royal family's Copenhagen home. Along the way, you will remember the shine of black granite on the waterfront, rows of bright gabled houses, copper spires, broad palace squares, and the mix of old fortifications with bold modern design.
This self-guided audio walking tour explores royal Copenhagen, from sailors’ homes and grand churches to palace squares and lively streets. It suits first-time visitors who want a clear introduction to the city’s history, architecture, and everyday atmosphere while moving at their own pace. Your route begins in Nyboder, where long rows of mustard-yellow houses recall the naval district created by King Christian IV for sailors and their families. From there, you walk to the great copper-green dome of Frederik's Church, then on to Amalienborg Palace, where four elegant rococo mansions frame the royal square. The tour continues to Nyhavn, with its bright waterfront facades and old wooden ships, then crosses Kongens Nytorv and follows the bustle of Strøget. The walk ends at The Round Tower, after passing Rosenborg Castle and its orderly gardens. Along the way, you will meet some of Copenhagen’s most memorable sights: the calm geometry of Nyboder, the vast dome overhead at Frederik's Church, the open grandeur of Amalienborg, the harbor sparkle at Nyhavn, the clatter of city life around Kongens Nytorv, the energy of Strøget, the fairy-tale silhouette of Rosenborg, and the unusual spiral ascent inside The Round Tower.
This self-guided audio walk introduces first-time visitors to Copenhagen through its waterfront landmarks, royal squares, and layers of Danish history. It will suit travelers who enjoy famous sights, city stories, and an easy route filled with memorable views. Your journey starts at The Little Mermaid, the small bronze figure perched on her rock by the harbor, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale. From there, the route leads to Kastellet, where grassy ramparts and the star-shaped fort reveal Copenhagen’s military past, then on to the dramatic Gefion Fountain, where bronze oxen strain against the water in a scene from Norse legend. The walk continues to Amalienborg Palace, where elegant rococo facades frame the royal square, and then to Nyhavn, the canal lined with bright townhouses, old wooden ships, and busy quaysides. The tour ends at Christiansborg Palace, the powerful seat of Parliament, royal reception rooms, and centuries of rebuilding on the same island site. Along the way, you will experience sea air at the harbor, cannon-lined earthworks, splashing fountains, palace courtyards, and colorful waterside streets. Expect the contrast that makes Copenhagen unforgettable: fairy-tale charm beside royal grandeur and a working city shaped by the water.
This self-guided audio walk introduces first-time visitors to central Copenhagen through its royal landmarks, waterfront views, and historic public spaces. It will suit travelers who enjoy city history, architecture, and the feeling of exploring at street level with a guide in their ear. Your route begins at Tivoli Gardens, where colorful rides, gardens, and the famous old amusement park atmosphere set the scene. From there, you continue to Copenhagen City Hall and then to Christiansborg Palace, the heart of Danish political power. The walk moves past Børsen and the Church of Holmen, then opens onto Kongens Nytorv, a broad square framed by elegant facades. Next, you follow the harbor to Nyhavn, where bright 17th-century town houses line the canal and masts sway above the water. The route continues to The Playhouse and Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family, before ending at Kastellet, the star-shaped fortress with grassy ramparts and red military buildings. Along the way, you can expect the contrast of Tivoli’s lively gates, the heavy stone grandeur of palaces, the cobbles of old squares, and the fresh harbor light of Nyhavn. The most memorable moments come from seeing Copenhagen shift from fairytale charm to royal ceremony and then to calm fortress paths by the water.
Visit the original brewery site in central Copenhagen and learn about Carlsberg's beer-brewing history, dating back to 1847. Home of Carlsberg provides insight on everything Carlsberg, but also sheds light on special aspects of Danish culture, history, architecture of the authentic brewery buildings, and gets geeky on the brewing process behind the Carlsberg beer. In this way, the venue truly offers something to accommodate every interest. Take a break in the Carlsberg bar and courtyard, where you can enjoy a chilled Carlsberg beer or soft drink included in your entry and relax in the 'Hygge' atmosphere.
Visit IKONO in Copenhagen for a unique experience with over 10 rooms to explore in about an hour. Bring your imagination and enjoy this creative journey with friends and family. Discover new and surprising spaces that you can shape to your liking and leave with memorable experiences to share.
Cities in Denmark
About Copenhagen
The best tours to do in Copenhagen with kids are:
The best indoor tours in Copenhagen for rainy days are:
The must-see attractions in Copenhagen for a first visit are:
Insider tips for visiting Copenhagen
Simply Enjoying is a local guide who has been publishing tours since 2022 for your discovery of hidden gems and local specialities of Copenhagen on their personal guide page (view profile). Explore their expert tips planning trip to Copenhagen.
When I visit Copenhagen for a night out, I usually head to Vesterbro. It’s the part of Copenhagen where locals start with natural wine or craft beer around Istedgade, then drift toward the meatpacking district, Kødbyen, for late bars, DJs, and small clubs that stay lively without feeling too polished. If you visit Copenhagen and want nightlife with personality, this is where I’d go. I also like Nørrebro for a younger, more alternative scene, especially around Blågårdsgade. In my travel guide Copenhagen notes, Vesterbro always stands out because it mixes nightlife with some of my favorite things to do in Copenhagen during the day too.
When I’m in Copenhagen with my partner, I recommend renting bikes and riding through Christianshavn just before sunset, then crossing to the harbor promenade at Islands Brygge. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Copenhagen because you get quiet canals, houseboats, and that soft evening light over the water. If you want intimate attractions in Copenhagen, stop for a glass of wine along Wildersgade and linger by the old warehouses. I’m not big on formal tours in Copenhagen for couples; this feels more personal. For what to see in Copenhagen, that canal-and-harbor stretch always feels more special to me than the crowded postcard spots.
When I visit Copenhagen, I usually tell friends to split their time between Vesterbro, Nørrebro, Christianshavn, and the old center. Vesterbro gives you some of my favorite attractions in Copenhagen beyond the obvious—coffee on Værnedamsvej, then a walk through Kødbyen as it shifts from butcher halls to restaurants and bars. In Copenhagen, Nørrebro feels more local, especially around Jægersborggade with its small bakeries and design shops. Christianshavn is where I go for canal walks and quieter corners near Wildersgade. If you’re deciding what to see in Copenhagen, these areas show different sides of the city. I usually skip formal tours in Copenhagen and explore them on foot.
I recommend at least three full days in Copenhagen, and four if you like slow mornings, neighborhoods, and good food. In my travel guide Copenhagen notes, two days is enough to sample the center, but it won’t give you time for the parts of Copenhagen I enjoy most, like lingering in Nørrebro, biking through Frederiksberg, or swimming at Islands Brygge if the weather is warm. When I visit Copenhagen, I like one day for the historic core, one for canals and Christianshavn, and one for local streets and dining. If you visit Copenhagen for only 24 hours, you’ll miss many of the best things to do in Copenhagen.
When I visit Copenhagen for food, I usually spend most of my time in Nørrebro and Vesterbro. Nørrebro is where I go for a more local, creative mix—small bakeries on Jægersborggade, excellent coffee, natural wine, and relaxed spots where Copenhagen feels lived-in rather than staged. Vesterbro, especially around Istedgade and the Meatpacking District, gives you everything from simple breakfasts to late-night plates and cocktail bars. In my travel guide Copenhagen notes, these are the neighborhoods I return to most because eating there is one of my favorite things to do in Copenhagen. If you visit Copenhagen hungry, start with those two and wander slowly.
When I’m in Copenhagen with family, I recommend spending a half day at the harbor baths and playgrounds around Islands Brygge. It’s one of the most relaxed things to do in Copenhagen because kids can run, swim, or watch the boats, while adults get that classic Copenhagen summer atmosphere. Nearby cafés make it easy to stop for ice cream or an early lunch without turning it into a big production. For family-friendly attractions in Copenhagen, this feels more local than standing in long lines. If you’re wondering what to see in Copenhagen with children, I’d choose this over most formal tours in Copenhagen, especially on a warm day.
When I want a break from central Copenhagen, I usually head north along the coast to Klampenborg and Dyrehaven. It’s one of my favorite easy escapes from Copenhagen because you can walk under ancient oak trees, spot deer in the open parkland, and then continue to Bellevue Beach if the weather is good. For me, these are some of the most rewarding attractions in Copenhagen’s wider area because they show a calmer side of local life. If you’re deciding what to see in Copenhagen beyond the center, this beats many standard tours in Copenhagen. I’d pair it with a slow train ride and a long lunch rather than packing in too much.
When I visit Copenhagen, I almost always get around by bike, then use the metro for longer stretches or bad weather. In my travel guide Copenhagen notes, cycling is what makes the city click: the distances are short, the bike lanes are serious infrastructure, and neighborhoods like Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Christianshavn feel best at that pace. If you visit Copenhagen for the first time and don’t want to cycle, the metro is clean, easy, and fast, especially to the airport and outer districts. One of the best things to do in Copenhagen is simply move between areas like a local, stopping whenever a bakery, canal, or wine bar catches your eye.