Copenhagen is the beautiful capital of Denmark, a city full of amazing architecture, both new and old. From statues to palaces, there are so many things to see in the city, and here are 7 sights that you definitely should not miss.
The Little Mermaid
Probably the most famous icon of Copenhagen, the Little Mermaid statue sits atop a rock in the Copenhagen harbour. Inspired by the character of the same name created by famous writer Hans Christian Andersen, the statue is the most popular tourist attraction in the whole city, so be prepared to face crowds of people when visiting the statue.
Though it may not seem like it, the statue has experienced a lot since it was first introduced: it has been decapitated, splashed with paint, and even blown off with explosives. Despite all that, the Little Mermaid still stands, watching over the waters of the city. When you visit her, take a moment to just appreciate all that she’s been through while marveling at her simplicity and her significance.
Address: Langelinie, 2100 København Ø
Nyhavn
Another iconic destination of Copenhagen is the neighbourhood of Nyhavn, famous for its rows of colourful buildings along the canal. With the bright walls and the large boats tethered to the side of the canal, Nyhavn is the perfect place for a photo or two.
Nyhavn is more than just its houses. Along the canal, there are many cafes and restaurants that offer a variety of foods, including some Danish cuisine that we really recommend you try to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. If you’re a fan of fairy tales, try finding house No. 20, which is where Hans Christian Andersen lived and wrote several of his works, including The Princess and the Pea. He also lived in No.18 and No.67, so be sure to find your way there as well. Best of all, Nyvan is the starting point for many canal cruises, so get a ticket and hop on a cruise to explore the city through its waterways.
Address: Nyhavn 1-71, 1051 København K
Rosenborg Castle
Standing with tall towers and large red-brick walls, the Rosenborg Castle was built by King Christian IV and finished in 1633. While it may not be as large as the other two palaces on this list, the Rosenborg Castle is still a gorgeous place that cannot be missed.
What is unique to this castle is its well-preserved interiors, with many of the rooms remaining in the same fashion as they did when the castle was a royal residence, luxuriously and ornately decorated with original furniture. Now a museum depicting lives of the royals who once lived there, the castle also houses many artefacts like paintings, glass collections, and most interestingly, the crown jewels. Be sure to pay a visit to learn about the fascinating life of Danish Royalty.
Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København
Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday: 11am - 4pm
Tickets:
Adults: 120 DKK
Students: 85 DKK
Children (0-17 years): Free
Amalienborg Palace
The current residence of the Danish monarchs, the Amalienborg Palace consists of four identical rectangle buildings surrounding a large palace square, centred around a magnificent statue of King Frederick V of Denmark.
Besides being an active royal residence, the palace also houses a museum within one of the buildings, with items dating back 150 years ago. Rooms that were used by past monarchs, including their bedrooms and studies, have been accurately reproduced, which let you gain an understanding of what each generation of monarchs was like. To really complete the experience, make sure to watch the changing of the guards that happens everyday at noon.
Address: Amalienborg, 1257 København K
Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday: 11am - 4pm
Tickets:
Adults: 95 DKK
Students: 65 DKK
Children (age 0-17): Free
Christiansborg Palace
Once the residence of past royal monarchs, the Christiansborg Palace now houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. However, many of its rooms are still as opulent as they were during the time of the royals.
You’ll be able to explore several key locations, including the Royal Reception Rooms which are still used by the Royal family today. You’ll also be able to visit the Royal Kitchen, the Royal Stables, and most interestingly of all, go underground to see the ruins of a 12th Century castle that sit below the Palace.
Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København
Opening Hours:
Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Tickets:
Adult: 160 DKK
Student: 140 DKK
Child under 18: Free
Gefion Fountain
Going back to the waters of Copenhagen, at the harbour front of the city stands the Gefion Fountain, one of the largest monuments in the city. This fountain, which also doubles as a wishing well, is named after the Norse Goddess Gefion, whose large statue sits at the very top of the fountain, riding a plough pulled by 4 oxen. As the myth goes, she turned her 4 sons to oxen in order to plough the land that would become Zealand, the main island of Denmark. Toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish; who knows, Gefion might make it come true.
Address: Churchillparken, 1263 København K
Black Diamond Library
Now for the most modern landmark on this list. The Royal Danish Library is most famously known as the Black Diamond Library because of its unique architecture. Its exterior walls are covered with black granite, while the building itself is formed of sharp and irregular angles, allowing it to reflect both the sea and the sky with its perfect location by the water.
The interior of the Library is just as stunning too, with a full glass wall allowing natural light to enter the building while also offering fantastic views of the sea. Other than being a library, the building also houses the National Museum of Photography, as well as important manuscripts from Hans Christian Andersen and philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. There is also a cafe and restaurant, making it a great place to enjoy a quiet meal away from the buzz of the city.
Address: Søren Kierkegaards Plads 1, 1221 København K
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 10am - 5pm
These 7 landmarks are an essential part of any visit to Copenhagen and should not be missed. Luckily, for a reasonably priced ticket, the hop-on hop-off bus brings you directly to them, so you won’t have to worry about getting to each location. So buy a ticket, get on a bus, and soon you’ll be seeing the best of the city’s architecture and history.
