Arriving in Copenhagen: Getting to the City Center
If you’ve just arrived at Copenhagen Kastrup Airport, your first step is getting to the city center. The easiest option is to take the Copenhagen Metro, located at the end of the airport arrival hall. Trains run every 4 minutes, and the journey to central Copenhagen takes only 15 minutes. Tickets are available at ticket machines, and credit cards are accepted.
For those staying a few days, consider the Copenhagen Card, which covers transportation (buses, metro, trains, and waterbuses) and provides free admission to over 80 attractions, including museums and landmarks. The card is valid for 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours and can be pre-ordered online and picked up at the airport. Alternatively, you can opt for the City Pass, a digital ticket delivered straight to your phone, perfect for getting around without worrying about zones.
Starting Your Copenhagen Adventure
Before you dive into exploring, visit Copenhagen Visitor Service on Vesterbrogade 4 for tourist information, including maps, recommendations on attractions, shopping, dining, and details on upcoming events.
Copenhagen is a city of islands, straddling Zealand and Amager, with artificial and natural islets between them. The heart of the city is the old center, surrounded by modern and lively neighborhoods like Nørrebro, Vesterbro, Østerbro, and Amagerbro.
Getting Around Copenhagen: Public Transport and Biking
While public transportation in Copenhagen is reliable and efficient, we highly recommend exploring the city by bike. Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city with one of the world’s best cycling infrastructures. You’ll find safe bike routes everywhere and plenty of rental options to choose from.
Top Attractions and Entertainment in Copenhagen
Tivoli Gardens
Head to Vesterbrogade 3 for a visit to Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest and most iconic amusement parks. Open year-round, Tivoli is home to stunning gardens, historic architecture, and rides like the wooden roller coasterfrom 1914. It’s especially magical during the Christmas season.
Bakken Amusement Park
Located just 10 minutes north of the city in Klampenborg, Bakken is the world’s oldest amusement park. Nestled in a deer park, this seasonal attraction offers rides, games, and beautiful scenery, making it a must-visit.
Torvehallerne Food Market
Located at Frederiksborggade 21, Torvehallerne is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find a variety of Danish delicacies, fresh produce, and gourmet items to sample.
Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food
For a laid-back vibe, head to Trangravsvej 14 to experience Reffen, the largest street food market in the Nordics. This spot is perfect for enjoying affordable meals, cocktails, and great views of the water.
Copenhagen’s Cultural Scene and Annual Festivals
Copenhagen is home to countless cultural events throughout the year. Here are just a few of the biggest and most exciting festivals:
- Roskilde Festival: One of Europe’s most famous music festivals, held every July. Get ready for 8 days of live performances, camping, and endless fun.
- Stella Polaris: A one-day electronic music festival in Frederiksberg Have that’s perfect for relaxing with friends and enjoying live music outdoors.
- Distortion Festival: A city-wide street party held each summer, drawing over 100,000 attendees. By day, the streets of Nørrebro and Vesterbro host free parties, while at night, the best clubs come alive.
- Copenhagen Jazz Festival: A staple of the city’s cultural calendar, this summer festival offers free and ticketed jazz performances across city squares, music venues, and outdoor spaces.
- Frost Festival: Held in February, this unique festival combines light installations with music performances in unusual venues, like abandoned churches and empty swimming pools.
Best Cinemas in Copenhagen
If you’re a film enthusiast, Copenhagen boasts some unique cinema experiences:
- Imperial Cinema: Located at Ved Vesterport 4, it’s Scandinavia’s largest cinema and has been hosting premieres since 1961.
- Empire Bio: A cozy spot at Guldbergsgade 29 in Nørrebro, perfect for indie films.
- Grand Teatret: Located on Mikkel Bryggers Gade 8, it offers an intimate and artistic movie-going experience.
Experience Classical Theatre in Copenhagen
For an evening of classical theatre, ballet, or opera, visit The Danish Royal Theatre at Kongens Nytorv 9. They offer a discount for visitors under 25.
Final Tips
Copenhagen is a city full of surprises, culture, and entertainment. From historic amusement parks to vibrant street festivals, there’s always something exciting happening. For more detailed guides, tips, and local recommendations, visit VisitCopenhagen.
