1. Christiania
ExploreChristiania, a famous free town in Copenhagen that offers a unique blend of art, colorful buildings, and an alternative lifestyle. This iconic community offers a one-of-a-kind experience and is a must-see that reflects the city’s creative and free spirit.
Where:Main entrance to Christiania: Prinsessegade 45, 1440 Copenhagen K.
2. Harbor Bathing Spots 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 that’s been named the world’s best beach destination? Copenhagen has, in fact, previously been awarded the prestigious title of the world’s best beach destination, and when we talk about the world’s best, we’re talking about beating destinations like Rio de Janeiro and Barcelona. The three harbor swimming spots are free to use, and water quality is regularly monitored by environmental authorities.
The Harbor Bath at Fisketorvet
- Where: KalvebodBrygge 55, 1560 Copenhagen V
Islands Brygge Harbor Bathing Area
- Where:Islands Brygge 14, 2300 Copenhagen S
Sluseholmen Harbor Bathing Area
- Where:69 Ben Websters Vej, 2450 KHV SV
3. Reffen
Visit Copenhagen’s largest street food market,Reffen, where food, culture, and sustainability come together by the waterfront to create a unique atmosphere. Here, you can sample a wide variety of international dishes while enjoying the lively and colorful atmosphere in a setting that values creativity and community. Admission to Reffen is free, but if you want to buy food or drinks, you’ll need to bring your wallet.
Where:Reffen, Refshalevej 167, 1432 Copenhagen
4. Lüders Pastry Shop in Nordhavn
A unique outdoor workout area located on the roof of a parking garage. Enjoy a beautiful view of Copenhagen and a one-of-a-kind workout experience. Total price: 0 kr!
Where:Konditaget Lüders,Lüders Parking Garage on Helsinkigade, Helsinkigade 30, 2150 Copenhagen
5. GreenKayak
Experience Copenhagen’s waterways in a unique way by renting a free kayak fromGreenKayak. All you have to do is collect any plastic you find on your trip and share photos of your trip on social media. Help keep the city’s harbors and lakes clean while enjoying a fun and sustainable activity.
Read more athttps://www.greenkayak.org/
Where:You can rent your GreenKayak from several locations in Copenhagen.
6. Absalon Community Center
A creative hub offering a wide range of activities and events—from communal dining to cultural events—in the heart of Copenhagen. Admission to the events is free, though there is a small charge if you’d like to eat or have a drink.
Where:Folkehuset Absalon, Sønder Blvd. 73, 1720 Copenhagen
7. Bakken
Visit the world’s oldest amusement park,Bakken, where history and fun come together. Bakken has free admission and offers entertainment for all ages. However, you’ll need to pay if you want to try out the various rides. Bakken is technically located in Klampenborg, just outside downtown Copenhagen, but it’s definitely worth the trip.
Where:Dyrehavsbakken 207, 2930 Klampenborg
8. The Flying Grill
VisitFlyvergrillen, a charming barbecue spot with a fantastic view of the runways at Copenhagen Airport. It’s the perfect spot for aviation enthusiasts and families who want to combine a cozy picnic with watching planes in action. Enjoy a grilled hot dog and watch the planes take off and land from the front row.
Where:Amager Landevej 290, 2770 Kastrup.
9. The Super Wedge
A unique public park, designed by Bjarke Ingels, that celebrates diversity with its colorful design and works of art from around the world.Superkilenis located in the heart of Nørrebro.
Where:Superkilen Park, Nørrebrogade 210, 2200 Copenhagen
10. Things to Do Around Christiansborg:
Explore the many free attractions at and around Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, where history and architecture come together. The area offers beautiful surroundings and provides a fascinating insight into Denmark’s political and royal history.
Christiansborg Palace Square:
- Explore the grounds and enjoy the view of the impressive castle.
The Ruins Beneath Christiansborg:
- See the ruins of former castles; admission is free on certain days or for certain groups.
Christiansborg Riding Arena:
- Take a look at the historic buildings and the riding arena area.
Christiansborg Palace Gardens:
- A beautiful garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Christiansborg Palace Church:
- Visiting the church is free duringopening hours.
The Danish Parliament
- Free public toursare available, where you can learn about the Danish parliamentary process.
11. Local walks – audio walk
Explore Nørrebro, Vesterbro, Østerbro, Amager, or the city center digitally and for free. Local Walks is a digital city tour that offers a deeper understanding of these vibrant neighborhoods through interactive stories and points of interest.
Read more about Local Walkshere
12. The Little Mermaid
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without a visit to our iconic“Little Mermaid,” a symbol of Copenhagen and a must-see for every tourist! This world-famous statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, sits beautifully on a rock at Langelinie and offers a perfect photo spot with a view of the sea and the Opera House.
Where:Langelinie, 2100 Copenhagen Ø.
13. Green Spaces in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is full of beautiful green oases that invite you to relax and enjoy nature right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment in the Botanical Garden, want to soak up the sun in Kongens Have, 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. Kastellet is a peaceful, green area, perfect for a stroll past the historic buildings and bastions.
Where:Kastellet, Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, 2100 Copenhagen
15. Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg
Experience the traditionalchanging of the guard at Amalienborg Palace, a proud symbol of the Danish royal family. This daily ritual, in which the Life Guard changes shifts in colorful uniforms accompanied by music, is a must-see if you’re in Copenhagen.
Where: Amalienborg, Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 Copenhagen K
16. Cinemateket Children's Film Series
Cinemateketoffers free movie screenings for children on weekdays. It’s a fantastic way to introduce the youngest children to the world of film in a cozy, child-friendly environment—at no cost to you.
Where:Gothersgade 55, 1123 Copenhagen K.
17. Free Museum Visits:
Cultural experiences don't necessarily require a big budget. These museums open their doors for free on certain days, allowing everyone to explore art, history, and cultural heritage at no cost.
Thorvaldsen's Museum: Free admission every Wednesday. Explore works by the famous Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen.
- Where: Bertel Thorvaldsens Plads 2, 1213 Copenhagen K
Copenhagen Museum: Free admission every Wednesday, when you can delve into Copenhagen’s fascinating history.
- Where: Stormgade 18, 1555 Copenhagen V
The Glyptotek: Free admission on the last Wednesday of every month and on select special days, where ancient and modern works of art come together.
- Where: Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Dantes Plads 7, 1556 Copenhagen
18. The Six Forgotten Giants
Discover“The Six Forgotten Giants,”an exciting treasure hunt in the natural surroundings of Copenhagen, where you can find 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 on the Mountain, The Six Forgotten Giants, 2620 Albertslund
19. Libraries in Copenhagen
Visiting Copenhagen’s libraries is free, and 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 Copenhagen
- Where:Rentemestervej 76, 2400 Copenhagen NV
- Where:Islands Brygge 18, 2300 Copenhagen S
Explore Copenhagen for free over a couple of days, with a convenient base in the city
Copenhagen has plenty of things to do that won’t cost you a krone. From green oases and iconic landmarks to harbor swimming spots, urban spaces, and walks. Spread the list out over a few days so you can take it at a leisurely pace and still visit both the well-known spots and the more hidden gems. Go Hotels makes it easy to find affordable and convenient places to stay in Copenhagen, so you can spend your budget on whatever you want and get the most out of the city—completely free of charge.