Free experiences in Copenhagen
Are you looking for free experiences in Copenhagen? Then you have come to the right place. Copenhagen, a city rich in culture, history and unique experiences, offers a wealth of activities that do not cost a penny. Copenhagen may be an expensive city, but as the saying goes, "the best things in life are free" - and that certainly applies to these hidden treasures in Denmark's charming capital.
In this guide, we present 15 free experiences in Copenhagen, where you can enjoy both the city's vibrant life and its quiet oases. From historical museums, to scenic walks and creative urban spaces. - There is something for everyone!
1. Christiania
Explore Christiania, a famous haven in Copenhagen that offers a unique mix of art, colorful buildings, and an alternative lifestyle. This iconic community offers a unique experience and is a must-see that reflects the city's creative and free spirit.
Where: Main entrance to Christiania: Prinsessegade 45, 1440 København K.
2. Harbor baths in Copenhagen
It's quite unique that the water in Copenhagen is so clean that you can swim in it, so why not enjoy a cold dip in the city in the world's best seaside resort? Copenhagen has previously received the honorable title as the world's best seaside resort, and when we talk about the world's best, we are talking about beating destinations like Rio de Janeiro and Barcelona. The 3 harbor baths are free to use and the water quality is continuously checked by the environmental control.
The harbor bath at Fisketorvet
- Where: Kalvebod Brygge 55, 1560 KBH V
- Where: Islands Brygge 14, 2300 KBH S
- Where: Ben Websters Vej 69, 2450 KHV SV
3. Reffen
Visit Copenhagen's largest street food market, Reffen, where food, culture and sustainability meet at the harbor edge and create a unique atmosphere. Here you can taste a multitude of international dishes while enjoying the lively and colorful atmosphere in an environment that values creativity and community. It's free to enter and walk around Reffen, but if you want some food or drinks, you have to bring out your wallet.
Where: Reffen, Refshalevej 167, 1432 København
4. Konditaget Lüders in Nordhavn
A unique outdoor training area located on the roof of a car park. Experience a beautiful view of Copenhagen and a different training experience. Total price: DKK 0!
Where: Konditaget Lüders, P-hus Lüders på Helsinkigade, Helsinkigade 30, 2150 København
5. GreenKayak
Experience Copenhagen's waterways in a unique way by renting a free kayak from GreenKayak. All you have to do is collect all the plastic you find on your trip and share photos of the trip on social media. Help keep the city's harbors and lakes clean while enjoying a fun and sustainable activity.
Learn more about GreenKayak on https://www.greenkayak.org/
Where: You can rent your GreenKayak from several locations in Copenhagen.
6. Folkehuset Absalon
A creative meeting point that offers a wide range of activities and events, from communal dining to cultural events, in the heart of Copenhagen. There is free entry to the events, but you have to pay a little if you want to eat or have a drink.
Where: Folkehuset Absalon, Sønder Blvd. 73, 1720 København
7. Bakken
Visit the world's oldest amusement park, Bakken, where history and fun mix. Bakken has free entry and offers entertainment for all ages. However, you have to pay if you want to try various rides. Bakken is technically located in Klampenborg, a little outside of the center of Copenhagen, but it is definitely worth the trip.
Where: Dyrehavsbakken 207, 2930 Klampenborg
8. Flyvergrillen
Visit Flyvergrillen, a charming grill bar with a fantastic view of the runways at Copenhagen Airport. It is the perfect spot for plane enthusiasts and families who want to combine a cozy picnic with watching planes in action. Enjoy a sausage from the grill and watch the planes take off and land in the first row.
Where: Amager Landevej 290, 2770 Kastrup.
9. Superkilen
A unique public park, designed by Bjarke Ingels, that celebrates diversity with its colorful design and artworks from around the world. Superkilen is located in the heart of Nørrebro.
Where: Superkilen park, Nørrebrogade 210, 2200 København
10. Experiences around Christiansborg:
Explore the many free experiences at and around Christiansborg Castle in Copenhagen, where history and architecture merge. The area offers beautiful surroundings and provides an exciting insight into Denmark's political and royal history.
Christiansborg Palace square:
- Explore the square and enjoy the sight of the impressive castle.
Ruins under Christiansborg Palace:
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See the remains of former castles, free entry on certain days or for certain groups.
Christiansborg Equestrian Track:
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Explore the historic buildings and riding track area.
Christiansborg Palace Garden:
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A beautiful garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Christiansborg Palace church:
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Free to visit the church during opening hours.
The Danish Parliament
- Free public tours are available where you can learn about the Danish parliamentary process.
11. Local walks - digital slef-guided walk
Explore Nørrebro, Vesterbro, Østerbro, Amager or inner city digitally and for free. Local walks is a digital city walk that offers a deeper understanding of the lively neighborhoods through interactive stories and sights.
Read more about Local walks here
12. The Little Mermaid
No trip to Copenhagen is complete until you have visited our iconic ’The little mermaid’, a symbol of Copenhagen and a must-see for every tourist! This world famous statue, inspired by H.C. Andersen's fairy tale, sits beautifully on a rock by Langelinie and offers a perfect photo spot with a view of the sea and the Opera.
Where: Langelinie, 2100 København Ø.
13. Green areas in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is full of beautiful green oases that invite relaxation and nature in the heart of the city. Regardless of whether you are looking for a quiet moment in the Botanical Gardens, want to enjoy the sun in the King's Garden, or go for a run in Ørsted Park, Søndermarken or Amager Strandpark, Copenhagen has something for you.
14. Kastellet
Visit one of the best-preserved fortifications in Northern Europe. The castle is a peaceful green area, perfect for a walk along the historic buildings and bastions.
Where: Kastellet, Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, 2100 København
15. Changing of the Royal Guards at Amalienborg Palace
Experience the traditional changing of the royal gurads at Amalienborg Palace, a proud symbol of the Danish royal family. This daily ritual, where the Life Guard changes guard in colorful uniforms and with music, is a must experience if you are in Copenhagen.
Where: Amalienborg, Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 København K
16. Cinemateket Børnebiffen (childrens cinema)
Cinemateket offers free movie experiences for children on weekdays. A fantastic way to introduce the youngest to the world of film in a cozy and child-friendly environment, without it costing you anything.
Where: Gothersgade 55 1123 København K.
17. Free museum visits:
Cultural experiences do not necessarily require a large budget. These museums open their doors for free on certain days, allowing everyone to explore art, history and heritage for free.
Thorvaldsens Museum: Free entry every Wednesday. Explore works by the famous Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen.
- Where: Bertel Thorvaldsens Plads 2, 1213 København K
Københavns Museum: Free every Wednesday, where you can delve into Copenhagen's exciting history.
- Where: Stormgade 18, 1555 København V
Glyptoteket: Free entry on the last Wednesday of each month and on selected anniversaries, where ancient and modern works of art meet.
- Where: Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Dantes Plads 7, 1556 København
18. The Six Forgotten Giants
Discover 'The six forgotten giants', an exciting treasure hunt in nature around Copenhagen, where you can discover six giant wooden sculptures hidden in the suburbs. This creative experience, created by artist Thomas Dambo, is a fun activity for both children and adults
Where: Thomas på Bjerget, De 6 Glemte Kæmper, 2620 Albertslund
19. Libraries in Copenhagen
It is free to visit Copenhagen's libraries, where you can take part in various events or enjoy the quiet surroundings while you read or work. Some of the city's popular libraries include:
- Where: Krystalgade 15, 1172 København
- Where: Rentemestervej 76, 2400 København NV
- Where: Islands Brygge 18, 2300 København S