Copenhagen in summer: best things to do and see

As the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen is a city that dazzles with its blend of history, culture, and Scandinavian charm. The city truly comes alive during the warmer months, with Copenhagen in summer offering a plethora of experiences that captivate tourists and locals. From stunning gardens in full bloom to bustling outdoor markets and festivals, which are also some of Copenhagen's best nighttime activities, the city transforms into a vibrant hub under the summer sun.

This comprehensive summer guide is curated to provide a varied selection of summer activities, so you can make the most of your time in the Danish capital. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a water sports fan, or a cultural aficionado, there's something for everyone in Copenhagen. So, gear up for an adventure and let this guide help you discover the attractions and experiences Copenhagen in summer offers.

Best outdoor activities

1. Revel in the beauty of Nyhavn

Nyhavn is a 17th-century waterfront, canal, and entertainment district in Copenhagen. It is lined with brightly colored townhouses, bars, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists to take a leisurely stroll.

Highlights:

If you're going to take the beauty of the Nyhavn, do it from a boat with the Canal Cruise from Nyhavn.

Address and opening hours:

Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark. Tour times vary.

2. Wander in the Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens, a 19th-century amusement park in Copenhagen, is a popular destination for people of all ages. The park offers a variety of thrilling rides, scenic gardens, and open-air stage shows, not to mention just being a great spot to walk around in and enjoy the scenery.

Highlights:

The Palm House, a beautiful iron and glass greenhouse, offers a magical experience for your Tivoli Gardens Admission Ticket.

Address and opening hours:

Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V, Denmark. Open daily, 8:30 AM-6:00 PM.

3. Explore the King's Garden

Also known as Rosenborg Castle Gardens, the King's Garden is the oldest and most visited park in central Copenhagen. The beautiful sculptures, rose garden, and picturesque castle make it a delightful place for an afternoon picnic and a desirable spot for many visitors to the city.

Highlights:

Take a Copenhagen: 1.5-Hour Bike Tour and see the gardens from the comfort of a saddle.

Address and opening hours:

Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

4. Step back in time at The Round Tower

The Round Tower is a 17th-century tower in central Copenhagen. It is one of many architectural projects by Christian IV and has served as an observation tower for centuries. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city by walking up the spiral ramp.

Highlights:

Add a little gamification to your visit with a City Exploration Game and Self-Guided Tour.

Address and opening hours:

Købmagergade 52A, 1150 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

5. Enjoy a Day at Copenhagen Zoo

Copenhagen Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe, is home to more than 4,000 animals of 237 species from around the globe. This zoo is an excellent place for children to learn about animals and how they can be protected — well worth the price of a Copenhagen Zoo Entry Ticket.

Highlights:

Check out the Arctic Ring exhibit for a unique experience — coming face-to-face with a polar bear.

Address and opening hours:

Roskildevej 32, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark. Open daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

6. Explore the City by Bike

Copenhagen is renowned as one of the most bike-friendly cities you can visit. Renting a bike is easy, and from there, you can explore the city's landmarks, admire the stunning waterfront, and experience the local culture.

Highlights:

Take a 3-Hour Bike Tour and see all the city's main attractions.

7. Adventure in Fælledparken Skatepark

As one of the most extensive and varied skate parks in Northern Europe, Fælledparken Skatepark covers a considerable area and provides a wealth of opportunities for sporting activities. This outdoor sports hub caters to various interests. From skateboarding and roller skating to BMX biking, there's a broad selection of ramps, bowls, and tracks that will appeal to children and teens.

Highlights:

If you don't have the equipment for this park, you can always take advantage of the rentals and training sessions.

Address and opening hours:

Edel Sauntes Allé 3, 2100 København, Denmark. Open 24/7.

Best water activities

8. Set sail on a canal tour

Experience Copenhagen from the water by taking a Guided Canal Tour by Electric Boat. Sail around the city's harbor and canals, passing many of the capital's famous landmarks, including The Little Mermaid and Christiansborg Palace.

Highlights:

The guided tour provides valuable insights into the history and architecture of the landmarks you pass.

Address and opening hours:

The tour starts at Ved Stranden 26, 1061 København, Denmark. Tour times vary.

9. Take a swim at Havnebadet

Havnebadet at Islands Brygge is an open-air swimming area in Copenhagen Harbor. This outdoor complex has five pools, including a children's pool, a diving pool, and a wave pool. The diving boards range in height from 1 meter to 10 meters. The pools are heated to a comfortable temperature year-round, and the area is open from May to September.

Highlights:

Enjoy a refreshing swim with views of the cityscape.

Address and opening hours:

Islands Brygge 14, 2300 København S, Denmark. Open daily, 6:00 AM-10:00 PM, during summer months.

10. Rent a boat

If you like a bit more freedom in your trips, you might consider a 1- or 2-Hour Boat Rental - No License Required. Head out on the canals with your own private boat and feel the thrill of being a boat captain for a couple of hours.

Highlights:

No license or certificate is required to rent a boat, and instruction is given beforehand.

FAQs

Where can I go swimming or relax by the water in Copenhagen?

Two popular swimming spots in Copenhagen are Islands Brygge Harbour Bath and Amager Beach Park. The former is a man-made harbor bath with five swimming pools, including a wave pool, a children's pool, and a diving pool. It also has a sauna and a restaurant. The latter is a natural beach with a long sandy shore, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also has a playground and a picnic area.

Are there any great summer festivals in Copenhagen?

Roskilde Festival is a music festival held in Roskilde, Denmark, and is one of the largest music festivals in Europe. The festival features a wide range of musical genres, from rock and pop to electronic music. In addition to music, the festival also features a number of other activities, such as art exhibitions, film screenings, and talks. There is also the Copenhagen Jazz Festival.

What are the must-visit outdoor attractions in Copenhagen?

Must-see outdoor attractions in Copenhagen include Tivoli Gardens, a popular amusement park; The King's Garden, which houses Rosenborg Castle; and Nyhavn, a charming canal and entertainment district. The Botanical Gardens and The Little Mermaid Statue are also popular tourist destinations.

What are some great day trips to take from Copenhagen in the summer?

Some excellent day trips from Copenhagen include visiting the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Humlebæk, exploring the historic city of Roskilde, and traveling to the stunning cliffs of Møns Klint. These trips provide a blend of art, history, and nature.

What are some fun activities with kids in Copenhagen in summer?

Tivoli Gardens is a must-see for families with children. It is an amusement park with exciting rides and attractions. The National Aquarium Denmark, Copenhagen Zoo, and Experimentarium also offer educational and entertaining experiences for children. These places are great for families to visit and have fun together. They offer a variety of activities that children of all ages can enjoy.