Copenhagen City Hall, designed by famous architect Martin Nyrop and inspired by Siena's Town Hall in Italy, stands prominently on City Hall Square. The hall was inaugurated in 1905, showcasing the pinnacle of national romanticism in Denmark.

The building is marked by a striking facade decorated in rich ornamental style, featuring among other elements the roof statues of polar bears symbolizing the giant Danish protectorate of Greenland. A golden statue of Bishop Absalon, the city's founder, presides over the central balcony, while the clock tower, reaching 105.6 meters, marks one of Copenhagen's tallest structures. The tower clock, a notable feature, chimes daily at noon and during New Year's Eve at midnight.

The City Hall's architectural complex comprises three aligned buildings connected by longitudinal structures. The hall is linked via tunnels to the nearby buildings, ensuring a blend of historical elegance and modern functionality.

The interior layout includes meeting rooms, a wedding hall, and a banquet hall used by the municipality. At its heart lies the Town Hall Garden, open to the public during summer months and accessible from Hans Christian Andersen Boulevard. The front entrance boasts a glass mosaic depicting Copenhagen's coat of arms, commemorating the city's historical privileges and the City Hall's inauguration.

Inside the building, looking down on the inner grand hall (which is open to the public) are the marble busts of four celebrated locals: fairy-tale writer Hans Christian Andersen, sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, physicist Niels Bohr, and the building's architect Martin Nyrop. Downstairs are the national archives dating back to the 1270s.

As you leave, check out the amazing World Clock (opposite the info desk), the supreme mechanical astronomical chronometer in terms of function and precision. Built between 1943 and 1955, its displays include lunar and solar eclipses, positions of the stellar bodies, and a perpetual calendar, in addition to the time across the world's time zones. The clock's fastest gear completes a revolution every ten seconds, while the slowest – every 25,753 years!

Tip:
The main hall is free to enter, whereas to go up the tower you'll have to pay a small fee.
They escort you in groups at 11 am / 12:30 pm and 2 pm on weekdays and noon on Saturdays. You can join a guided English tour at 1 pm (on weekdays) and 10 am (on Saturdays).
As the building is central, the views are great and the viewing platform is square and large.

Conveniently located in central Copenhagen, very close to the train station (for those traveling into town), Tivoli Gardens is the original inspiration for Walt Disney World – and it shows. The lovingly tended grounds – a wonderland of rides, games, restaurants, marching bands, funny mirrors, and roulette wheels – are picturesque and equally friendly for both kids and adults.

Tivoli is actually the second oldest, still operational amusement park in the world; the oldest one is also in Denmark. The wooden "Mountain" Roller Coaster (Bjergbanen or Rutschebanen) was built in 1914; its operator actually controls the ride by braking, so that it does not gain too much speed while descending the hills! Another roller coaster, The Demon (Dæmonen), features an “Immelmann” vertical loop and a zero-gravity roll – all in one ride that lasts one minute and 46 seconds. Also of note is The Star Flyer swing ride, opened in 2006, offering panoramic views of the city from an 80-meter (260-foot) elevation.

Apart from these exciting rides and a few thrilling towers, Tivoli is a venue for performing arts, counting among the major cultural hubs in Copenhagen. So even if you are not interested in the rides, there is plenty of space just to walk around, admire the prodigious flowers and large fountains, catch a free concert, or try a wide range of different foods: Mexican, Asian, Japanese, Italian, French, Danish, or regular street food like sandwiches/burgers, etc.

Tickets are both "pay as you go" and "pay once for all", which is affordable for every budget and worth it just to see the Danes – both young and old – at play. In the summer months they have fireworks displays every Saturday at 11:45 pm and if you don't want to stay all day, just have your hand stamped so you can re-enter at a later time.

Why You Should Visit:
Supposedly, this was the template that inspired Walt Disney to create his theme parks!
Fun to walk around in even if you don't go on any rides – a lovely way to spend time with friends.

Tip:
Great to come a bit before sunset, so you can see the place both in daylight and illuminated in the evening.
You can also take your own food and drink in a bag (they don't check them), as it's rather expensive inside.

Perhaps Copenhagen’s most photogenic overachiever, the Marble Bridge is undoubtedly the most notable of the four bridges crossing Frederiksholms Kanal. Built in 1744 as part of the original Christiansborg Palace complex, it was meant to impress guests heading to the royal riding grounds. And it certainly did.

Despite the palace burning down not once, but twice, throughout its history, this elegant rococo beauty survived both firestorms with all the grace of a period drama heroine. Today, it remains one of the few original features still standing, looking like it just walked out of the 18th century and refused to age.

Built with Norwegian marble (because, obviously, only the finest materials would fit the purpose) and dressed up with sandstone from Saxony, this bridge is no minimalist. Its creator, Johan Christof Petzoldt, added the royal couple’s monograms and symbolic rooftop figures emphasizing royal virtues. Throw in some lantern-topped columns, marble balustrades, and refined arches, and you’ve got the bridge that was meant to dazzle-and it still does.

Visually striking, the bridge looks like it belongs on a vintage postcard. With the picturesque views of Christiansborg Palace and those charming copper rooftops, it’s a hotspot for tourists, romantics, and anyone who enjoys watching canal boats attempt the very tight squeeze under its arches-some barely make the turn, thus adding a bit of light entertainment for viewers.

However, the bridge is not just about looks-it is part of a richly historical setting. Within a short stroll, you’ve got Christian IV’s Brewhouse, the Danish War Museum, and the royal stables. And if you’re lucky, a horse-drawn carriage might occasionally trot by, contributing to the old-world charm of the area.

In essence, although not massive or flashy, the Marble Bridge holds an iconic presence in Copenhagen. It’s all about quiet confidence, old-world elegance, and some really terrific photo ops. So whenever you’re near Castle Island, make the detour for this perfect pause in your Copenhagen adventure-your camera will thank you.

Christiansborg Palace is where Danish democracy, royal pomp, and a bit of architectural resilience come together. This place isn’t just a palace but the unicorn of government buildings. It’s the only structure in the world that houses all three branches of government: the Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court. Talk about multitasking...

The current palace is the third on this site. The original castle built by the city's founder, Bishop Absalon, stood here since 1167. Its remains, along with those of its successor – Copenhagen Castle – have been excavated and are now visible in the subterranean section at Christiansborg. After suffering two major fires, in 1794 and 1884, the palace was rebuilt in a historicist Neo-baroque style by 1928.

Often called "the Castle of the Realm" or simply "the Castle", Christiansborg is also used by the Danish monarchy, hosting dignitaries in its lavish Royal Reception Rooms, holding ceremonies in the Palace Chapel, and presumably waving regally at horses in the Royal Stables.

Speaking of horses-here’s a bit of drama. King Christian IX's equestrian statue at the Riding Ground Complex, unveiled in 1927, caused controversy. The horse model for it was sourced from Hanover, Germany, thus causing discontent among Danish breeders.

Owned by the Danish Government, parts of Christiansborg are open to the public. If you have a Copenhagen Card for tourists, admission to the royal reception rooms (as well as the stables, kitchen, and underground ruins) is free. Highlights of the experience include the Queen's china collection, her ornate ceremonial library, and the Great Hall, adorned with tapestries chronicling Denmark's history.

But even if you don't have the card, no problem. You can still wander the courtyard and head up the Tower-Copenhagen’s tallest. The views are impeccable. The elevator-tiny but mighty. And the security check is mildly official.

Tip:
Always look out for the free English one-hour tours included in your ticket (they run at 3 pm each day but also at different times during weekends: 12 pm or 2pm). That is of course unless you'd rather wander the rooms on your own, reading the descriptions.

The Round Tower – Copenhagen’s answer to the question: “What if we made a giant architectural cinnamon roll… but for science?” This 17th-century spiral of brick in the heart of the Danish capital was “cooked up” by King Christian IV as part of his grand architectural project, originally intended as an observatory for the astronomer genius Tycho Brahe.

Back in the 1600s, Europe was getting really into astronomy. The Round Tower came with its own academic library, the Trinitatis Church, and a university chapel. The spiral ramp was so strong and wide that one could easily ride a horse or even drive a carriage up and down it. Apparently, some kings did actually, including Russian Tsar Peter the Great. Because stairs are for the common folk...

Now, if you're a fan of Hans Christian Andersen, you're gonna love this. The Round Tower pops up in “The Tinderbox.” That’s the one where a soldier meets a witch, climbs into a hollow tree, and finds three coin-filled vaults guarded by increasingly horrifying dogs. The biggest of which has eyes “the size of the Round Tower.” Subtle product placement, Hans...

Today, tourists from all corners of the Earth climb its 7.5-turn helical corridor just to snap that perfect panoramic selfie of the city. Because it’s not just a tower but a slow-motion ascent into Danish history, science, and surprisingly chic art installations.

As you wind your way up, your first pitstop is a gallery space featuring contemporary art that occasionally makes you question your understanding of gravity. Then it’s on to the bell loft – because what's a tower without a good ol’ bell room? And finally, the key attraction: the observatory itself, complete with a 360-degree view of Copenhagen. There’s even a thick glass platform near the top – for the brave souls who enjoy standing on transparent floors and peering into the abyss.

Tip:
There’s a cozy café nearby for a crowd-free coffee break, a blessedly clean toilet halfway up, and a souvenir shop with actual quality stuff – not your usual tourist tat. So take your time, bring your curiosity, and maybe leave the horse at home...

Stroget, a pedestrian thoroughfare in the heart of Copenhagen, is renowned as one of Europe's longest shopping streets, extending over 1.1 kilometers. Initially known as Ruten until the late 19th century, the street has been a fashionable hub in the Danish capital since its layout was established in 1728 following a major fire. The architecture along Stroget mainly dates from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the oldest building erected in 1616.

Stroget is renowned for its extensive shopping opportunities. It hosts a wide range of shops, from international brands to local boutiques, offering fashion, design, jewelry, and more. It's a shopper's paradise and attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Throughout the day, especially during weekends and holidays, Stroget comes alive with street performers, musicians, and entertainers. This adds to the lively atmosphere and creates a festive mood.

Numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars line Stroget, offering a variety of cuisines and refreshments. It's a great place to stop for a meal or a coffee break while soaking in the bustling ambiance.

New Harbor-with all its bright colors, wooden ships, and a dash of nautical nostalgia-is by far Copenhagen’s most photogenic waterfront. Here, 17th-century Danish townhouses line up like they’re auditioning for a postcard.

Built between 1670 and 1675 under the direction of King Christian V-using a workforce of Danish soldiers and captured Swedish war prisoners-New Harbor was designed to boost trade with the Dutch. In reality, however, it quickly became Copenhagen’s go-to district for beer, brawls, and brothels. Trade and trouble? Why not both?

In his turn, the famed Danish author Hans Christian Andersen also called New Harbor home for a whopping 18 years. He first moved into Number 20, the red house, in 1834. Then, he shuffled over to Number 18 and eventually spent his longest stretch lounging around Number 67 from 1848 to 1865. Basically, he was living that prime canal-side real estate life before it was cool.

After World War II, the harbor’s hustle slowed to a crawl, and the area nearly faded into obscurity. But the 1960s gave it a second act. In 1977, the Veteran Ship and Museum Harbor dropped anchor, and by 1980, the quay was pedestrianized-aka, turned into the selfie paradise and café haven we know today.

Take a stroll now, and you’ll spot all sorts of restored museum ships moored along the canal-each one with enough maritime drama to fill a Netflix series. At the far end of the harbor sits the Memorial Anchor, quietly honoring Danish sailors lost in World War II.

Wander a bit further south, and things take a modern turn. Jazz clubs, tattoo parlors, trendy cafés, and enough open-faced sandwiches to keep your Instagram busy for hours.

Tip:
If you're on a tight budget or just pretending to be Danish, skip the overpriced bar scene. Grab a beer or coffee from a convenience store, plop yourself down at the quayside, and soak in the view. For something classier, head to the Royal Playhouse at the far end-great drinks, decent prices, and panoramic views that will make your camera weep with joy.

And hey, if your feet are screaming for mercy, you can always hop on a boat tour right at the harbor entrance. One hour of effortless sightseeing and zero walking required.

Also known as the Marble Church, Frederick’s Church is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Copenhagen – especially for its dome which is the largest in Scandinavia. This dome spans 31 meters and is supported by 12 columns.

Along with all other structures in Frederiksstaden district, the church was built to commemorate a member of the House of Oldenburg’s 300 years coronation jubilee celebrations. It was designed and erected by architect Nicolai Eigtved in 1740. King Frederick V laid the foundation stone in 1749. Eigtved died in 1754 due to which construction was hit by budget constraints and had to be stalled.

Johann Friedrich Struensee discarded the original plan in 1770 and the church remained incomplete for a while in spite of many efforts. For the next 150 years, the edifice remained in ruins. Carl Frederik Tietgen eventually got prominent architect Ferdinand Meldahl to design the church in its final form and financed its construction. Due to financial restrictions, the original plans for the church to be built almost entirely from marble were discarded, and instead, Meldahl opted for construction to be done with limestone. The church was finally opened to the public on August 19, 1894.

A series of statues of prominent theologians and ecclesiastical figures, including one of the eminent Danish philosopher Kierkegaard (who, incidentally, had become very critical of the established church by the end of his life), encircles the grounds of the building.

Why You Should Visit:
This church really has the wow factor; as beautiful inside as it is out (also, rather unique and unusual as it is circular inside).

Tip:
The dome can be visited – for a small fee – every day at 1pm sharp in summer but only at the weekend (Sat/Sun) in winter. Very impressive view from above!

On your trip to Copenhagen, take time off to visit the harbor where you will find the Little Mermaid statue. This statue is the icon of Copenhagen and is visited by tourists from across the world. The unimposing statue is based on one of Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tales.

After enjoying a ballet on this fairy tale at the Royal Theatre, Carlsberg founder’s son Carl Jacobsen commissioned the statue in 1909. It was modeled after none other than Ellen Price, the prima ballerina (well, partly, at least).

The statue is made of bronze and was painstakingly created by expert sculptor, Edvard Eriksen. Unveiled in 1913, the statue has Ellen Price’s head and Eline Eriksen, the sculptor’s wife’s body.

The Little Mermaid statue surprisingly weighs only around 175 kg and is 1.25 meters tall. Its small size is a surprise for first-time visitors who expect to see something grand and huge.

Why You Should Visit:
To watch people fall into the water as they try to get a photo with the statue (this happens more often than you'd think).

Tip:
The perfect spot for taking a picture is from the promenade overlooking the statue to the left. It's a great photo op, not only of the mermaid but the Copenhagen harbour behind.

Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of the Danish Royal Family. This palace complex features four rococo palaces constructed between 1750 and 1758. All are built around the octagonal square where you will find King Frederik’s equestrian statue. King Frederik ruled Norway and Denmark between 1723 and 1766 and was instrumental in the construction of Frederiksstad of which Amalienborg palace is a part.

Land for the palace was acquired by King Christian IV who ruled Norway and Denmark between 1577 and 1648. Queen Sophie Amalie, King Frederik III’s consort constructed the first palace in this waterfront area between 1669 and 1673. This palace was destroyed by fire in 1689.

King Frederik IV constructed the second royal palace at Amalienborg during his rule between 1671 and 1730. This was a two-storied small summer residence that featured a charming French garden. It was named Sophie Amalienborg.

In the 1980s the palace was restored as residence for the Crown Prince, storage facilities for the Queen’s Reference Library and a museum for the Royal House of Glücksborg. The museum features private royal apartments from 1863 to 1947 including original fittings and furnishings.

King Frederik V, in his effort to create a separate city outside Copenhagen, constructed Frederik’s City or Frederiksstad that featured exclusive homes for the noble families and aristocrats. All buildings were in Baroque style. Later on, additions were made to these buildings in rococo architectural style. Make sure you include Amalienborg Palace in your itinerary when you visit Copenhagen.

Why You Should Visit:
Considered as one of the best examples of the Rococo architecture style, this complex is beautifully preserved and feels more intimate than its European counterparts.

Tip:
Arrive at midday for the changing of the guard, an interesting display that takes around 10 minutes.

Christiania is a popular "anarchist commune" and "partially autonomous intentional community" in Copenhagen. It is spread over 7.7 hectares (19 acres) in the borough of Christianshavn and houses about 850 to 1,000 residents.

Christiania has been a source of controversy since its creation in a squatted military area in 1971. Its cannabis trade was tolerated by authorities until 2004. Since then, relations between Christiania and Danish authorities have been strained. Since the beginning of the 2010s, the situation has been normalized and the common Danish law now applies there.

Christiania is considered to be the fourth largest tourist attraction in Copenhagen (and it has half a million visitors annually), and abroad it is a well-known "brand" for the supposedly progressive and liberated Danish lifestyle. Many Danish businesses and organizations also use Christiania as a showplace for their foreign friends and guests. The purpose is to show something Danish that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

The people in Christiania have developed their own set of rules, independent of the Danish government. The rules forbid stealing, violence, guns, knives, bulletproof vests, hard drugs and bikers' colors. Additionally, within Christiania itself, no private cars are allowed. However, some 100+ cars are owned by residents and need to be parked on the streets surrounding the Freetown. After negotiating with city authorities, Christiania has agreed to establish parking areas for residents' own cars on its territory. As of 2005, parking space for only 14 cars had been established within the area.

Tip:
Come here to see another part of Copenhagen, but best to not come on your own!

One of the uniquely designed churches you must visit on your trip to Copenhagen is the Church of Our Savior. Constructed in baroque style, it is most famous for its helix spire with an external winding staircase that can be climbed to the top, offering extensive views over central Copenhagen. It is also noted for its carillon, which is the largest in northern Europe and plays melodies every hour from 8am to midnight.

The first version of this church was a temporary structure constructed by Christian IV in 1617 to serve Christianshavn on Amager Island. The present Church of Our Savior was constructed in Lambert Van Haven design over a period of 14 years and opened in 1695. It was only in 1732 that a permanent altar was built here. The spire was constructed by architect Lauritz de Thurah who abandoned the original Van Haven design. This spire approved by the king was completed in 1752.

As you enter the church compound you will be impressed by the Greek cross layout and the Dutch Baroque style construction. A granite foundation made of colourful yellow and red tiles support the walls.

Tuscan order pilasters segment the facade. Capitals and bases of this facade are made of sandstone. The tile frieze on the sandstone cornice adds to the elegance. Do not miss out the tall, arched windows between pilasters made of iron and glass.

Why You Should Visit:
The church itself is beautiful and its architecture – particularly the famous spiraling bell-tower – is worth a visit on its own.
However, the main attraction is the possibility to climb on that tower – on the very top, if you wish!

Tip:
There is no elevator and climbing up the steep, narrow staircase is pretty tough. Bring a bottle of water. You can also decide to stay on the topmost platform: views are already beautiful from up there.