The Ultimate Copenhagen Bucket List
The Ultimate Copenhagen Bucket List
Copenhagen is one of the most vibrant cities I’ve ever visited, effortlessly blending its historical charm with modern innovation. Known for its colourful waterfronts, historic castles and lively lifestyle, Denmark’s capital captivates all types of travellers.
For those crafting their ultimate travel bucket list, Copenhagen is brimming with iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Stroll along Nyhavn’s vibrant canals, explore the fairytale-like Tivoli Gardens, and immerse yourself in history at Amalienborg Palace or Rosenborg Castle.
Beyond its famous attractions, the city is also home to cutting-edge architecture, eco-friendly initiatives and a unique cycling culture that makes exploring the city both easy and enjoyable. It’s no surprise that Copenhagen is often considered one of the happiest cities in the world!
Copenhagen is a year round destination, so no matter what season you visit it, you will have an amazing experience. I’ve been to Copenhagen twice, always on Winter time, but it should also be great to explore it in warmer months to enjoy even more the outdoors.
In this article I will uncover my Ultimate Copenhagen Bucket List, with must-visit places and experiences that you shouldn’t miss while visiting this city, to ensure you experience the very best of Denmark’s charming capital.
Nyhavn’s Canals
If I had to choose one place to visit in Copenhagen, it would be undoubtably Nyhavn, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Famous for its vibrant and colourful buildings lining the historic waterfront, Nyhavn was a bustling commercial port in the 17th-century receiving ships from all over the world.
Nowadays it is a picturesque destination for visitors and locals alike with its cafes, restaurants and terraces offering the perfect spot to enjoy Danish cuisine or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It is also the starting point to take a canal tour to explore the city from the water, which is a great experience to have in Copenhagen.
Nyhavn was also home to Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish fairytale writer that lived in different locations in this neighbourhood. It is said that he wrote there renowned books like “The Princess and the Pea” and “Little Claus and Big Claus”.
Tivoli Gardens
Another unmissable place in Copenhagen is Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks founded in 1843. Walking around this park is like stepping into a fairytale and it has inspired famous personalities like Hans Christian Andersen or even Walt Disney.
This unique escape right at the heart of Copenhagen captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, whimsical rides and thrilling rollercoasters, lush gardens and spectacular entertainment. I recommend to visit it in the evening, when it comes alive with thousands of dazzling lights.
Tivoli Gardens also offers multiple dining options with restaurants and food stands inside the venue. Just outside the gardens, Tivoli Food Hall has a great variety of different cuisines in a lively atmosphere. I visited Tivoli Gardens during the holiday season and it gets particularly magical at this time of the year, transforming into a winter wonderland.
Strøget Shopping Street
With more than one quilometre long, Strøget is one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets and a shopping haven in Copenhagen. Stretching from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv, it offers from budget-friendly chains and Danish brands, to the most expensive high-end boutiques in the world.
Along this street you will also find many options of restaurants and cafes, as well as some historic landmarks and street performers. For this reason, it is a great destination for both shopping and soaking in the city’s atmosphere.
Rosenborg Castle and King’s Garden
Built in the early 17th century by King Christian IV as a summerhouse, Rosenborg Castle is a masterpiece of Danish Renaissance architecture and a window into the history of Denmark’s royal family. Nowadays, the castle houses hundreds of years of royal treasures, including the Danish Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia.
It is worth to visit its indoors, not only for the royal treasures, but also to step back in time and see how the royalty used to live. The interiors are very well preserved and it’s possible to see the wealthy decorated rooms, the Great Hall’s coronation thrones and wax figures of former royal inhabitants.
Afterwards, take a stroll through the King’s Garden nearby, Copenhagen’s oldest royal garden, from where you have the most spectacular views to the Rosenborg Castle.
Botanical Garden
Not far away from Rosenborg Castle, don’t miss the Botanical Garden with Denmark’s largest collection of living plants – more than thirteen thousand species from diverse locations. The garden also hosts a collection of 27 glass houses, including a tropical palm and a butterfly house, which is open in summer season only. With more than 10 hectares of gardens, it is a great option to walk around, offering a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle.
Amalienborg Palace and Museum
Located at the heart of Copenhagen, Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of Denmark’s royal family and a not to miss place in the city if you are a history enthusiast. With some Rococo architecture influences, the palace consists of four identical facades surrounding an elegant square, with a grand equestrian statue of King Frederick V at its center.
Visitors can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, taking place at noon. It’s also worth to discover Amalienborg Museum, which offers a glimpse into royal life with an exhibition about the monarchy traditions.
Little Mermaid
No visit to Copenhagen is complete without seeing the famous Little Mermaid statue, perched on a rock at Langelinie Pier. This bronze and granite sculpture was a gift to the City of Copenhagen from the Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen in 1913.
It was inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale “The Little Mermaid” about a young mermaid who dreams of becoming human after falling in love with a prince, sacrificing everything to be united with her prince on land.
The Round Tower
The Round Tower is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic buildings, located in the city centre right in the middle of the commercial streets. It was built as an astronomical observatory in the 17th century by King Christian IV, when Denmark was internationally known by its astronomical achievements.
Its unique spiral ramp leads visitors to the top, where panoramic views of the old part of the city await. Along the way, stop by the diverse exhibition spaces like a grand library hall and displays of art, culture, science and history. The observatory is now the oldest functioning in Europe, being used by both visitors and amateur astronomers.
Christiansborg Palace
Situated in the small island of Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen, Christiansborg Castle is a symbol of Danish political power and history. Today, it serves as the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Ministry of State.
Visitors can explore the Royal Reception Rooms, the opulent Great Hall with its stunning tapestries, and the castle’s impressive tower for sweeping views of Copenhagen. Don’t miss the hidden ruins of the original medieval castle.
The Copenhagen Opera House
Completed in 2005, The Copenhagen Opera House is a marvel of modern architecture, designed by Henning Larsen. Overlooking the waterfront, the building’s striking design contrasts beautifully with the city’s historic skyline. Inside, the venue features world-class acoustics and an opulent gold-leaf ceiling, hosting opera, ballet and play performances.
Manon Les Suites
In my last visit to Copenhagen, I stayed at Guldsmeden Manon Les Suites, a hotel that was in my bucket list for a long time. More than just a hotel, it is like an urban oasis blending luxury with comfort and sustainability.
The suite where I stayed had a spacious layout and it was stylishly designed with a vibrant and eclectic decor, combining Scandinavian minimalism with a touch of exotic elegance. It’s worth to head to the restaurant and the rooftop terrace and enjoy a cocktail with city views.
But the main attraction of the hotel is undoubtedly its stunning signature indoor pool that feels like stepping into a tropical slice of Bali at the heart of the city.
Located within walking distance of Copenhagen’s main attractions, such as Tivoli Gardens, the iconic Nyhavn harbor and the Strøget shopping street, it is the perfect place to be based while exploring the city.
For more travel inspiration of vibrant European cities, visit my Ultimate Bergen Travel Guide and my Ultimate Vienna Travel Guide.
