Copenhagen at night: 8 epic adventures after dark

Copenhagen at night: 8 epic adventures after dark

Discover the top things to do in Copenhagen at night — from the best neighborhoods and views after dark.

Copenhagen is known for its stunning castles, rich history, and vibrant culture. But as daylight wanes and night takes hold, a new side of the city emerges. The twinkling city lights, bustling nightlife, and tranquil waterfront offer a host of unique experiences. This guide to the top things to do in Copenhagen at night is your key to unlocking these nocturnal wonders.

Whether you’re a culture lover, a foodie, or simply someone seeking new adventures, Copenhagen comes alive after sundown. From exploring Nyhaven, the waterfront district to visiting famous landmarks after dark, there’s a vast array of fun things to do in Copenhagen at night that cater to all interests and tastes.

Top ranked: Copenhagen at night

Best attractions to visit at night: Tivoli Gardens, a magical wonderland of lights and entertainment

Best neighborhood for nightlife: Meatpacking District (trendy bars, clubs, and late-night dining)

Best scenic experience: Canal cruise, stunning views of Copenhagen lit up after dark

Best romantic spot: Nyhavn, picturesque waterfront with lively restaurants and bars

Best local hangout: Nørrebro (diverse street art, indie shops, and vibrant food scene)

Sail under the stars with a nighttime canal tour

Experience Copenhagen's beautifully lit canals on a peaceful nighttime boat cruise.

1. Cruise through Copenhagen’s canals after dark

Discover a different side of Copenhagen when it’s beautifully lit up at night with a cruise through the city’s canals. It’s a unique way to experience the city’s beautiful old houses, narrow streets, and lovely houseboats. Copenhagen’s network of canals is both picturesque and historic, making it a tranquil and romantic setting.

Hot tip:  

Choose a tour that takes you to the newly discovered area of Nordhavn by boat to discover amazing views of the historic architecture along the harbor.

Discover Copenhagen’s canals

Bask in the lights of Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens transforms into a magical wonderland with enchanting lights at night.

2. Take in the scenic lights of Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world, transforms into a magical landscape after dark. Thousands of colored lights illuminate the rides, buildings, and trees, creating an enchanting atmosphere. While there, get your heart racing on rides, including the Milky Way Express roller coaster, or explore the city’s beer scene in the popular Biergarten.

Hot tip:

Keep an eye out for special events at the Tivoli Gardens, like concerts or performances in one of the many theaters, and seasonal displays. Tivoli Gardens is known for going all-out with its decorations, especially during Halloween and Christmas.

Top Tivoli Gardens tickets and experiences

Soak in the view from The Round Tower

Enjoy panoramic nighttime views of Copenhagen's sparkling skyline from The Round Tower.

3. Enjoy panoramic views of Copenhagen at night from The Round Tower 

The Round Tower, or Rundetaarn, offers one of the best panoramic views of Copenhagen. After the sun sets, the cityscape is stunning, with twinkling city lights and distant illuminated landmarks. This 17th-century tower also serves as an astronomical observatory.

Hot tip:

Visit the Round Tower to revel in a piece of history. At night, you can enjoy incredible views of Copenhagen with little wait time at top restaurants like Studenterhuset.

Revel in the vibrant atmosphere of Nyhavn

Nyhavn comes alive at night with lively bars, cozy restaurants, and stunning reflections.

4. Revel in the vibrant nighttime atmosphere of Nyhavn, the waterfront district 

Nyhavn is a 17th-century waterfront district renowned for its brightly colored townhouses and antique wooden ships. At night, it transforms into a lively hub filled with people enjoying meals, drinks, and conversation at its many bars and restaurants.

Hot tip:

One of Copenhagen’s most well-known areas sights, Nyhavn is even more beautiful at night when the colorful architecture lights up by streetlights. Enjoy a stroll down the street and you’ll likely be greeted by lively locals and live jazz music.

Top things to do in Nyhavn

Try craft beer at Mikkeller Bar

Enjoy craft beer at a local bar.

5. Try craft beer at a world-renowned brewery 

Microbrewery Mikkeller Bar is known for its exceptional craft beer. Located in the trendy Vesterbro district, it's the perfect place to sample some of the best local beers in a cozy, relaxed setting. With an extensive and ever-changing beer menu, there’s always something new to try.

Hot tip:

Enjoy the Ich Bin Raspberry, a must-try and favorite among locals and tourists alike. It offers a sweet and sour, refreshing taste.

Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District buzzes with energy, offering bars, clubs, and unique dining spots.

6. Experience Copenhagen's nightlife in the Meatpacking District

Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, or 'Kødbyen,’ is the city’s go-to nightlife destination. This former industrial area is now filled with trendy bars, clubs for the younger crowd, and restaurants. It’s a perfect place to dance the night away, listen to live music, or enjoy a late-night cocktail. If dancing isn’t your thing, there is also a coffee bar where you can enjoy quality coffee and some downtime, along with some of Copenhagen’s best art museums and galleries.

Hot tip:

The Meatpacking District has something for everyone, including the popular NOHO restaurant that offers a dinning experience like no other. It doubles as a co-working space, so you can network and meet creatives, too.

Top things to do in the Meatpacking District

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Photo: Mark Hougaard Jensen

Nørrebro shines with vibrant street art, indie shops, and diverse food after dark.

7. Discover the creative culture of Nørrebro by night

Nørrebro is one of Copenhagen’s most diverse and dynamic neighborhoods. With Indie shops lining the streets, this area is known for its blend of cultures, street art, and creative spaces; it takes on a special ambiance at night. Try diverse cuisine, explore local shops, or simply enjoy Copenhagen by night with a walk through this vibrant area.

Hot tip:

Check out the popular John's Hotdog Deli food cart. It offers a hot dog of the month, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

Best things to do at night in Nørrebro

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photo: Jamie Hamilton

Explore world-class art and serene Sculpture Park during late-night hours.

8. Take in beautiful art at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art 

With a late-night opening, you can enjoy large paintings and woodcuts by Franz Gertsch, Roni Horn’s contemporary take on art, or enjoy a walk through Sculpture Park. There is even a Children’s Wing with activities for the younger crowd. The hours of operation make this a must-see nighttime attraction for anyone who loves art.

Hot tip:

Make a night out of your visit and enjoy dinner at the museum’s cafe. It’s open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.

FAQs

What are some of the top nighttime attractions in Copenhagen?

Popular nighttime attractions include the illuminated Nyhavn district and the Freetown of Christiania for its vibrant music scenes. The Black Diamond, an extension of the Royal Danish Library, is another architectural marvel that is particularly striking at night.

What are the best areas for a nighttime stroll in Copenhagen?

Nyhavn district, with its brightly colored townhouses and historic ships, is a favorite for a nighttime stroll. Nørrebro is another interesting neighborhood known for its diversity, street art, and creative spaces. The Meatpacking District, or 'Kødbyen,' is also worth visiting when exploring Copenhagen by night with its blend of trendy bars, restaurants, and art galleries.

What are the most popular things to do at night in Copenhagen?

Guided canal tours that explore Copenhagen’s waterways after dark are very popular. They offer unique views of the city’s attractions illuminated at night. cover of darkness. You can also enjoy world-class art at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art or enjoy the lively nightlife of Nørrebro.

What are some fun activities fun activities in Copenhagen at night with kids? 

Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park in the city, offers a magical experience for kids at night with its illuminated rides and attractions. The Tycho Brahe Planetarium is a fun thing to do with kids in Copenhagen, with its impressive digital shows about the cosmos that the whole family can enjoy.

What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Copenhagen?

For a romantic night out, consider a candle-lit dinner at one of Copenhagen’s Michelin-starred restaurants like Geranium. A moonlit walk along the Nyhavn Canal or a private canal tour can also be very romantic. The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art's stunning views of the Øresund Strait make for a uniquely intimate experience and one of the most romantic things to do in Copenhagen.

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