Free experiences in Copenhagen 2024

Whether you are away with the family or just yourself, there are a wealth of experiences waiting for you in Copenhagen. The capital offers city breaks on a par with major capitals around Europe.

We have compiled a guide to the absolute best experiences that Copenhagen has to offer.

Troll hunting in nature for young and old

Find The Six Forgotten Fighters

Go on a sculpture treasure hunt in the open air - And see if you can find all of the Six Forgotten Giants, which are located in selected places on Vestegnen. The trolls, all built in recycled wood, invite play and imagination for both big and small.

Get an overview of where on Vestegnen you can find The Six Forgotten Giants by artist Thomas Dambo below.

Christian IV's City Tour

A city walk in the footsteps of Christian IV is an immersive tour of 6.5 km through Copenhagen's history.

This route is a journey back in time, taking you past majestic architecture and historical sites that reflect the era of the visionary king. From the towers of Rosenborg Castle to the charming streets of Christianshavn, the tour opens up a unique insight into the life of one of Denmark's most significant monarchs.

A little overlooked architectural gem

Experience Grundtvig's Church

Grundtvig's Church is a unique architectural masterpiece in Copenhagen, designed by Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint. It is known for its impressive Gothic-inspired brick facade and majestic interior. The church is a tribute to the priest and philosopher NFS Grundtvig and offers visitors a unique combination of history, culture and peaceful atmosphere. A must-see for architecture and history lovers.

Go Amarminoen

The Amarminoen is a unique walking route of 27 km that takes you through some of Amager's most fascinating natural treasures and cultural-historical areas. This route takes you on a remarkable journey through Naturpark Amager, where you will explore the diversity of the island's landscapes and discover hidden gems that tell stories of containment, military use and a rich biological diversity.

Natural history experience for the whole family

Explore the Botanical Gardens

Explore the green breathing space in the middle of the capital - and experience the lush and versatile plant life that unfolds under the glass domes. The garden offers activities and events for the whole family all year round, and gives you the opportunity to dive into Denmark's exciting natural history.

Read more about activities, upcoming events and facilities below.

Get the full royal experience

See the Lifeguard's changing of the guard at the Castle Square

Experience the Royal Life Guard's changing of the guard at Amalienborg Castle Square every day at 12.00. The guards march from their barracks at Rosenborg Castle and through Copenhagen to Amalienborg, where they replace their colleagues.

The Changing of the Guard is a grand tradition, often accompanied by a band, and attracts many spectators. Also visit the Amalienborg Museum for a deeper insight into the life and history of the royal family

Iconic experience in Copenhagen

See the iconic Little Gardener

At Langelinje Kaj, one of the country's probably smallest attractions is located, but despite the size of the sculpture, it is among the most popular attractions in all of Denmark.

Take a walk by Langelinje Kaj, and see if you can spot The Little Mermaid - but you have to look closely, because she can be easy to overlook.

A unique park that must be experienced

Superkilen

Superkilen is a unique park in Nørrebro, divided into Den Røde Plads, Den Sorte Plads and Den Grønne Park. Each part represents different cultural elements from around the world, with objects such as a fountain from Morocco and a sculpture from Japan.

The park is a living expression of diversity and offers areas for sports, relaxation and social activities.

Find the park here: Nørrebrogade 210, 2200 Copenhagen

An experience for everyone

Christiansborg Castle tower

Visit the tower of Christiansborg Castle and get a fantastic view of Copenhagen - completely free of charge.. The tower is the city's tallest and offers a magnificent panoramic view. Access is via a lift from the King's Gate, and it's a perfect way to experience the city from above.

Opening hours vary, so check before your visit.

One of Northern Europe's finest and best-preserved fortifications

The castle

The Kastellet is a historic fortress in Copenhagen, and is one of Northern Europe's best preserved. Visit it for free and explore the scenic ramparts, bastions, and historic buildings. The castle is still an active military base, so show respect for the military activities.

The fortress is open from 06.00 to 20.00 in winter and 06.00 to 22.00 in summer.

A historically significant port

Copenhagen Harbour

The Port of Copenhagen is a lively and recreational area where you can enjoy activities such as swimming, kayaking, SUP and fishing for free. The harbor is open to the public all year round and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

You can also take part in various events and cultural activities along the waterfront. Remember to comply with the rules for safety and respect for the port's environment.

A collective managed village in Copenhagen

Christiania

Christiania, established in 1971, is a self-governing sanctuary in Copenhagen known for its unique culture, recycled architecture and social experiments. The area covers 34 hectares and houses around 850 inhabitants. Christiania is a popular tourist attraction and a recreational area that offers art, music and alternative forms of housing.

Although the sanctuary has been threatened with closure, it has been preserved as a cultural and social experiment. Visit and experience part of Copenhagen's alternative lifestyle.

Go-to places for fresh air and relaxation

Frederiksberg Garden

Frederiksberg Have is a romantic landscape garden laid out in the 18th century, known for its winding paths, canals and varied planting. The garden offers nature experiences such as birdlife, butterflies and old trees, as well as attractions such as a grotto, a Chinese gazebo and a waterfall. It is a popular green open space in the city, ideal for picnics and relaxation.

You can also take part in various events and cultural activities along the waterfront. Remember to comply with the rules for safety and respect for the port's environment.

Enjoy a boat trip and do something good for the environment

GreenKayak

GreenKayak offers free kayak rental in Copenhagen in return for collecting waste during your trip. The initiative promotes environmental awareness and helps keep the harbor clean. Borrow a kayak for free for up to two hours, collect litter and share your experiences on social media with #GreenKayak.

Book your kayak online and contribute to a cleaner harbour, while enjoying a unique experience on the water.

One of Denmark's most important art collections

Thorvaldsen's Museum

Thorvaldsen's Museum, dedicated to the Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, offers an impressive collection of sculptures and art. There is free access for everyone on the last Wednesday of every month.

Children and young people under 18 always have free access, and pensioners get in free every Tuesday.

The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday at 10-17.

One of the largest exhibition venues for contemporary art in Northern Europe

Kunsthal Charlottenborg

Kunsthal Charlottenborg is one of the largest and most significant exhibition venues for contemporary art in Northern Europe. Located at Kongens Nytorv in Copenhagen, the art gallery presents a wide range of Danish and international artists. The exhibitions span multiple media and forms, including painting, sculpture, installation, photography and video.

Free access: The art gallery offers free entry for children and young people under the age of 16 and free entry for all Wednesdays after 17.

An ideal introduction to Copenhagen's history and current development

Copenhagen Museum

Copenhagen Museum is a treasure trove of the city's history, located in a beautiful setting close to Nørreport Station. The museum welcomes visitors to an exciting exhibition about Copenhagen's development from the Middle Ages to the present day. The exhibitions include everything from archaeological finds to modern urban planning.

Free access: Children and young people under the age of 18 always have free entry. Pensioners can visit the museum for free every Tuesday, and from 1 July 2024 there will be free entry for everyone on the last Wednesday of every month.

An exclusive museum in the heart of Copenhagen

David's Collection

Davids Samling is an exclusive museum in the heart of Copenhagen that offers one of the finest collections of Islamic art in the Western world. In addition, you will find an impressive selection of older European art and an exquisite collection of recent Danish painting, sculpture and ceramics.

The museum has free access year round, making it an accessible and enriching cultural experience for everyone.

Experience changing exhibitions of Danish contemporary and modern art

Møstings Hus

Møstings Hus is a charming art gallery located by Lake Andebakke in Frederiksberg. Built in the 19th century, the house serves as a platform for contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events.

The exhibitions span different art forms, and the house is known for its intimate atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

There is free access to Møstings Hus, which makes it an obvious place to experience art at no cost.

Experience religious art and the city's development

Copenhagen Cathedral Museum

The Copenhagen Cathedral Museum, located in Our Lady's Church, offers insight into the history of the church and the city. The museum has changing exhibitions that present everything from religious art to the development of the city. The exhibition area behind the altar offers a beautiful, historic setting with round walls and circular windows.

The museum is free to visit To everyone.

Discover the history of the department store

Magasin du Nord Museum

Magasin du Nord Museum, located in Vingårdstræde in Copenhagen, offers insight into the department store's rich history through exhibitions and archives. The exhibition "Magasin på Kongens Nytorv - an iconic building turns 130" is currently on display.

The museum is open Thursday and Friday at 13-17 and Saturday and Sunday at 11-15. There is free entry for all visitors, and groups of over 10 people can book free tours by contacting the museum curator.

Focus on young and unknown artists

O – Overgaden

Since 1986, O – Overgaden by Christianshavn's canal has been a center for contemporary art. With a focus on new local and international artists, Overgaden annually presents eight large solo exhibitions and public events such as artist talks, performances, film screenings and debates.

The exhibition program is based on an Open Call that promotes younger or unknown artists and gives them the opportunity to experiment and develop their ideas.

There is free entry for all exhibitions and most events.

Experience the world's largest diesel engine

DieselHouse

DieselHouse, located in Copenhagen, is a museum dedicated to the history and development of diesel technology. The museum houses the world's largest working diesel engine, built in 1933.

In addition to the engine, visitors can explore exhibits on the impact of diesel technology on industry and transportation.

The museum offers free access and is an experience for all age groups.

The Glyptoteket offers changing exhibitions

The Glyptotheque

The Glyptoteket in Copenhagen is an art museum with a unique collection of antique art from the Mediterranean area and Danish and French art from the 19th century. The museum offers changing special exhibitions and events. The Glyptotek is surrounded by a beautiful winter garden, where you can enjoy a break.

There is free entry for everyone on the last Wednesday of every month, which makes it an obvious opportunity to experience the museum at no cost.

Art museum located in Kastrup

Kastrupgård collection

The Kastrupgårdsamlingen is an art museum located in Kastrup that focuses on graphics and works by Danish and international artists. The museum presents both permanent collections and changing exhibitions, and it is known for its intimate atmosphere and historic building.

There is free access to the museum, making it accessible to anyone who wants to experience a wide range of works of art.

Discover the history of Danish banks and savings banks

The Bank and Savings Bank Museum

The Bank and Savings Bank Museum in Copenhagen offers a fascinating journey through Danish banking and savings bank history. The museum is located in the historic headquarters of Sparekassen for Copenhagen and the surrounding area and shows the development of Danish banking from the 19th century to the present day.

The exhibits include old bank offices, safes, and financial artifacts.

The museum offers free access and provides a unique insight into economic cultural heritage.

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