7 Unique Tourist Attractions in Copenhagen

Copenhagen, is a city brimming with history, culture, and modern Scandinavian charm. While many travelers flock to well-known sites like The Little Mermaid statue and Tivoli Gardens, the city also offers a wealth of unique and off-the-beaten-path attractions that provide a deeper glimpse into Copenhagen's heart. From hidden art installations to historical gems, these seven attractions will enrich your visit with experiences that go beyond the typical tourist itinerary.

Cisternerne

The Cisternerne is an underground reservoir turned art space located beneath Søndermarken Park, near Frederiksberg Palace. This subterranean gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that are enhanced by the eerie, damp atmosphere of the former water cisterns. The combination of modern art and the unique setting makes for an unforgettable experience. It's particularly appealing for those who enjoy photography or contemporary art in unusual spaces. The Cisternerne is less crowded than more mainstream museums, offering a tranquil escape.

Location: Søndermarken, 2000 Frederiksberg. The Cisternerne is set in a picturesque park, perfect for a leisurely stroll before or after your visit.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as it can be cool and damp underground. The acoustics are also quite remarkable, so take a moment to enjoy the natural reverberation.

Nearby: After exploring the Cisternerne, consider visiting the nearby Frederiksberg Have for a relaxing walk or head to Café Lindevang for their famous smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches).

Superkilen Park

Superkilen Park is a public park in the Nørrebro district that stands out for its bold design and multicultural elements. The park is divided into three main areas: The Red Square, The Black Market, and The Green Park, each with distinctive features and installations from around the world. It's a fantastic spot for urban explorers and those interested in modern landscape architecture. The park is free to visit and offers a great opportunity to mingle with locals.

Location: Nørrebrogade 210, 2200 København. Superkilen Park is situated in a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, reflecting Copenhagen's multicultural spirit.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the quirky objects scattered throughout the park, such as the Moroccan fountain, the Russian neon sign, and the Japanese octopus slide.

Nearby: Grab a coffee at The Coffee Collective Nørrebro, known for their high-quality, directly traded coffee, before or after your park adventure.

Assistens Cemetery

While it may seem macabre to visit a cemetery, Assistens Cemetery is as much a peaceful park as it is the final resting place of famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard. The cemetery's lush greenery and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a reflective walk or a quiet picnic. It's located in the Nørrebro district and is free to enter. The cemetery also serves as a cultural venue for guided tours and events throughout the year.

Location: Kapelvej 4, 2200 København. Assistens Cemetery is nestled in the heart of Nørrebro, surrounded by lively streets and cozy cafes.

Travel Tip: Visit in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom for a particularly beautiful experience.

Nearby: Stop by Mirabelle Bakery for some organic bread and pastries, a perfect complement to a cemetery stroll.

Thorvaldsens Museum

Thorvaldsens Museum, dedicated to the work of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, is a hidden gem located on the small island of Slotsholmen. The museum's architecture is as impressive as the vast collection of Thorvaldsen's sculptures and personal art collection. It's a quiet refuge from the more crowded museums and offers a glimpse into neoclassical art. The museum has free admission on Wednesdays, making it a cost-effective cultural outing.

Location: Bertel Thorvaldsens Plads 2, 1213 København. The museum is situated near Christiansborg Palace, adding to the historical ambiance of the area.

Travel Tip: Be sure to look up and admire the beautifully painted ceilings as you wander through the galleries.

Nearby: Enjoy a meal at The Standard, which houses multiple restaurants offering everything from New Nordic to Indian cuisine, all with a view of the harbor.

The David Collection

The David Collection is an art museum in the heart of Copenhagen that houses one of the largest collections of Islamic art in Scandinavia, along with European fine and applied art. The museum is located in a charming building that was once the private home of its founder, C.L. David. It's free to enter and offers a quiet, intimate viewing experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The collection's diversity and the tranquil setting make it a must-visit for art lovers.

Location: Kronprinsessegade 30, 1306 København. The museum is tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood, just a stone's throw from the Rosenborg Castle Gardens.

Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to explore the Islamic art section, which is renowned for its intricate ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts.

Nearby: After your museum visit, head to Atelier September for a cozy atmosphere and a menu that focuses on organic, local produce.

The Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

The Round Tower, or Rundetaarn, is a 17th-century tower built by King Christian IV. It's one of the oldest functioning observatories in Europe and offers panoramic views of Copenhagen. What makes it unique is the spiral walk, which leads visitors to the top without the use of stairs. The tower also hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. There's a small entrance fee, but the experience of walking the spiral ramp and the views from the top are well worth it.

Location: Købmagergade 52A, 1150 København. The Round Tower is centrally located and easily accessible from the main shopping street, Strøget.

Travel Tip: Visit on a clear day for the best views, and don't miss the glass floor 25 meters above the ground, where you can peer down into the core of the tower.

Nearby: Satisfy your hunger at Paludan Bogcafé, a unique combination of a bookstore and café, offering a cozy environment and a wide selection of dishes.

The Hidden Giants - Thomas Dambo's Sculptures

For an outdoor adventure, seek out The Hidden Giants, a series of six large wooden sculptures created by artist Thomas Dambo. These sculptures are scattered throughout the suburbs of Copenhagen, hidden in forests and near lakes, encouraging visitors to explore the less-traveled paths. The hunt for these gentle giants is a fun and active way to see the natural beauty surrounding Copenhagen. The sculptures are free to visit and provide a unique twist to the usual sightseeing activities.

Location: Various locations around the suburbs of Copenhagen. Each sculpture's location can be a starting point for a new area to explore.

Travel Tip: Check out Thomas Dambo's website for maps and clues to find the giants. It's a great activity for families or groups of friends.

Nearby: After your giant-hunting expedition, relax at Café Vivaldi in the suburb of Valby, which offers a comfortable setting and a diverse menu.