The top 20 free activities in Copenhagen, featuring everything from mermaids to museums

Copenhagen is a city that beautifully blends history with modernity, tradition with innovation. While it's celebrated for its design, exceptional cuisine, and relaxed vibe, it’s unfortunately not known for being budget-friendly.

However, you'll be surprised to discover numerous experiences available at no cost, including some of the city's most iconic attractions. Keep your krone for something truly special with our selection of the 20 best free things to do in Copenhagen.

1. Experience Copenhagen's maritime history at Nyhavn

With its vibrant hues and historic tall ships, the lively Nyhavn is Copenhagen's most iconic location. Walk along the southern bank of the canal for stunning views and photo opportunities, and be sure to check out house number 20, where beloved Danish author Hans Christian Andersen resided in 1835 while publishing his first collection of fairy tales. Don't let the summer crowds deter you; this beautiful harbor is worth a visit any time of year.

Insider tip: Instead of splurging on expensive meals at waterfront restaurants, follow the local custom of grabbing a snack and some beers for a picnic by the water.

2. Honor the Little Mermaid 

Tourists from around the globe come to admire Copenhagen's most iconic figure, Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid. This famous statue, sitting on a rock just off the coast of Langelinie Park, is smaller than many anticipate, and some consider it overrated. Nevertheless, the stroll along the harbor is delightful, with various sights to enjoy on your way to this emblematic landmark. Visit early or late to sidestep the largest crowds.

3. Enjoy breathtaking views from Christiansborg Palace

For sweeping vistas of central Copenhagen and beyond, visit Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament and the Royal Reception Rooms. While most areas of the palace require an entrance fee, accessing its impressive tower is free. Standing at 108m (354ft), Christiansborg Tårnet is the highest viewpoint in Copenhagen, offering breathtaking panoramas in every direction, including views of the Øresund Strait leading to Sweden.

Insider tip: Just behind the tower lies the outdoor Royal Riding Ring, where you might catch glimpses of the royal white horses during their training sessions. This offers a budget-friendly alternative to visiting the Royal Stables.

4. Explore Danish sculpture at the Thorvaldsens Museum

The charming Thorvaldsens Museum, located next to Christiansborg Palace, is devoted entirely to the works of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen. Admission is free on the last Wednesday of every month. Thorvaldsen spent forty years in Rome, drawing inspiration from classical mythology and art. The museum showcases hundreds of his creations—statues, sketches, and molds—as well as numerous antiquities he collected during his travels.

5. Enjoy free art at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

The expansive Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek features an impressive array of sculptures and paintings from renowned artists like Rodin, Van Gogh, and Gauguin, alongside an exceptional collection of Mediterranean antiquities. Free admission is offered on the last Wednesday of each month. The museum's architecture is as breathtaking as its exhibits, boasting a lush winter garden and a rooftop terrace that provides stunning views.

Insider tip: While in the vicinity, take a stroll down the street to appreciate the facade of Copenhagen City Hall, a prime example of National Romantic architecture, designed by Martin Nyrop in 1905.

6. Explore the modern art scene at Nikolaj Kunsthal

Open for free on the last Wednesday of each month, Nikolaj Kunsthal is a contemporary art venue set in a former church, featuring a striking spire that dominates the skyline. The exhibitions rotate frequently, showcasing a diverse array of media and styles, often highlighting contemporary social, cultural, or political themes.

7. Capture a picture of the Gefion Fountain and Kastellet

The Gefion Fountain, depicting the Norse goddess Gefion and her oxen, stands majestically beneath St Alban's Church. Behind the fountain lies Kastellet, a star-shaped fortress constructed in the 1600s for the city's defense; visitors can freely explore its grounds and historic structures, including a charming windmill.

Planning tip: Consider pairing your visit to Kastellet with a leisurely walk through the lush Langelinie Park, where you'll pass the Little Mermaid and the Maritime Monument.

8. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Strøget and the Old Town

As one of the longest pedestrian streets globally, Strøget serves as the bustling heart of Copenhagen, a shopper's paradise especially for those who love Danish design—all while being free to browse. With its blend of historic buildings, squares, and fountains, it’s a major attraction in the Old Town, drawing up to 10,000 visitors daily during peak season.

Venturing away from the lively main shopping thoroughfare reveals delightful, quieter squares like Gråbrødretorv and some of the city's most picturesque streets. Keep your camera ready as you stroll along Magstræde, a lovely, winding cobblestone path lined with vibrant old houses.

9. Enjoy the serene greenery of Kongens Have

While Copenhagen boasts numerous green spaces, Kongens Have (the King’s Garden) stands out for its charm. This beautiful garden surrounds Rosenborg Castle, originally built as the royal summer residence in the 1600s and now functioning as a museum (entrance fees apply). With its winding tree-lined paths, an orchard, a rose garden, and spacious lawns perfect for picnics, it's a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.

Planning tip: During the afternoons from June 1 to September 1 (Tuesday to Sunday), the gardens host a marionette theater offering free performances for children.

10. Stroll through the verdant Botanisk Have

Copenhagen’s historic Botanical Garden spans 10 hectares and is home to 13,000 species of trees, flowers, and plants. Key attractions include a perennial garden, a rhododendron garden, and a rock garden filled with alpine flora. Meandering paths guide you through flowerbeds and around a picturesque lake at the center of the park, a remnant of the city’s ancient moat. While there's an entrance fee for the 19th-century Palm House, which features a seasonal Butterfly House in summer, visiting the Botanical Garden itself is free.

11. Discover royal life at Amalienborg Palace

Featuring four architecturally identical palaces surrounding a central courtyard, Amalienborg Palace serves as the official residence of Queen Margrethe II and the Danish Royal Family. While there is a fee to tour the palace rooms, watching the Changing of the Guard is free. Each day at noon, the Royal Life Guard marches from their barracks at Rosenborg Palace to Amalienborg to take over their duty. Dressed in distinctive bearskin helmets and deep blue uniforms (or red on special occasions), they march around the courtyard, often accompanied by a band when the Queen is in residence.

Planning tip: Nearby, the Amaliehaven gardens offer free admission and feature beautiful sculptures by Italian artist Arnaldo Pomodoro along the harbor.

12. Savor the sights, scents, and flavors at Torvehallerne Market

Torvehallerne is a culinary paradise where home cooks and professional chefs gather for fresh, local produce. This market consists of two glass halls and various outdoor stalls where you can find high-quality ingredients for picnics, pick up treats like wines, teas, and chocolates, or relax in one of the many cafes while people-watching. You can also explore the stalls for free.

Planning tip: If you’re eager to try local dishes, don't miss a smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) from Hallernes, or a fiskefrikadelle (fish cake) with remoulade from Boutique Fisk.

13. Appreciate the stunning design of the Royal Library

Situated on Slotsholmen island, the Royal Library consists of two parts: the historic building established in 1648 and the contemporary extension that opened in 1999. The new section, known as the Black Diamond for its lustrous marble facade, beautifully overlooks the Copenhagen harbor.

The library boasts a comprehensive collection, including nearly every book ever published in Danish, with some volumes dating back to 1482. While the striking interior architecture invites exploration, the central hall is open to the public, though books must be reserved beforehand to access the reading rooms.

Planning tip: Nestled between the library's charming historic side and the entrance to the Danish Parliament, you'll discover a serene hidden garden, perfect for a peaceful pause by the fountain amidst a busy day of sightseeing.

14. Visit some historic churches

Many churches in Copenhagen are open to the public free of charge. Christiansborg Slotskirke has hosted royal christenings and funerals for centuries, while Vor Frue Kirke (The Church of Our Lady) has been the venue for numerous royal weddings, including the 2004 ceremony of Crown Prince Frederik and Mary Donaldson.

Overlooking Amalienborg Palace, Marmorkirken (The Marble Church) features an impressive dome and is constructed from limestone, making it the largest of its kind in Scandinavia. Another noteworthy church is Vår Frelsers Kirke (The Church of Our Savior), renowned for its spire that features an external spiral staircase available for climbing at a fee.

15. Explore the bohemian charm of Freetown Christiania

Nestled in the island district of Christianshavn, Freetown Christiania is a distinctive and somewhat controversial part of Copenhagen. This autonomous community was founded in 1971 during a housing crisis when squatters took over an abandoned military base to create an alternative lifestyle.

Christiania spans a large area that features nature trails and a serene lake. The settlement boasts various restaurants, bars, a market, artist studios, and concert venues. You’ll find plenty of street art and residents living in creatively repurposed army barracks or uniquely crafted homes.

16. Savor a creative meal or snack at Reffen

Opened in 2017, the Reffen food market quickly became a favorite among locals and visitors, known for its tasty street food in Copenhagen. Situated on the former industrial island of Refshaleøen, it features over 30 vendors serving diverse cuisines from repurposed shipping containers. The initiative aims to support budding entrepreneurs and promote sustainable practices.

Reffen isn't just about great food; it also hosts artists' studios and regularly features free concerts, art festivals, and various events. The market operates daily during the peak season and opens on weekends for much of the rest of the year.

Planning tip: Although Reffen is somewhat remote, the journey there is enjoyable on the yellow 'harbor bus' boat.

17. Dive into the harbor

Indeed, you heard correctly! While Copenhagen isn't primarily a beach destination, it's surrounded by water, and its harbor is clean enough for swimming. Although it can be brisk, even during summer, it's a favored spot for a refreshing dip in both warm and cool weather. The city boasts three harbor bath facilities available for free (Islands Brygge being the most accessible), but many locals simply leap in from the docks.

18. Enjoy a seaside walk at Amager Strand

For a perfect summer day in Copenhagen, hop on the Metro to Amager Strand for a beach outing. The long sandy stretch attracts many sunbathers and wave enthusiasts, while the waterfront promenade offers a fantastic setting for a stroll or bike ride. You can catch breathtaking views of the Øresund Strait, with the iconic bridge linking Copenhagen to Malmö in Sweden visible in the distance.

19. Discover Rådhuspladsen

At the end of Strøget lies Rådhuspladsen, featuring Copenhagen's Italian-inspired City Hall. Visitors can take in the lavish lobby and admire Jens Olsen's World Clock, a remarkably detailed timepiece. While you explore the square, take a moment to appreciate the Gothic-style Dragon Fountain, the beloved statue of Hans Christian Andersen, and the stone pillar that marks the former location of Vesterport, the western gate of the old city wall.

20. Experience the hipster atmosphere on Jægersborggade

Venture to the trendy neighborhood of Nørrebro and stroll along Jægersborggade, one of Copenhagen’s top streets for independent shops and local cafes. Check out artists' studios, vintage clothing stores, and unique shops offering everything from chocolates to cacti.

Planning tip: While exploring Jægersborggade, take a break to recharge with a cup of coffee at the renowned Coffee Collective, or enjoy a comforting bowl of gourmet porridge at the amazing Grød.