Best Things to Do in Copenhagen with Kids

Copenhagen, the charming capital of Denmark, is a truly magical destination for families. This city effortlessly blends fairytale wonder with modern innovation, offering an abundance of attractions and activities designed to captivate children and adults alike. If you are looking for the best things to do in Copenhagen with kids, you’ve come to the right place. From historic castles that spark the imagination to world-class interactive museums and thrilling amusement parks, Copenhagen provides a memorable backdrop for a family adventure. Its walkable streets, excellent public transport, and ‘hygge’ atmosphere make it an incredibly welcoming place for travelers with little ones in tow.

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Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

Tivoli Gardens

Copenhagen’s legendary Tivoli Gardens amusement park is a world of magic that delights visitors of all ages. From thrilling roller coasters and gentle carousels to spectacular live shows and beautifully manicured gardens, Tivoli captivates with its historic charm and lively atmosphere. Younger kids will particularly love the whimsical playgrounds, the dragon boats, and the iconic Ferris wheel, creating memories that last a lifetime.

When planning your visit, keep in mind that there is an entrance fee, and rides require additional tickets or an unlimited ride pass. Prices can vary seasonally, so it is always a good idea to check their official website. Stroller access within the park is excellent, with wide, paved paths throughout, making it easy to navigate with young children. Families typically spend anywhere from 4-6 hours here, though it’s easy to enjoy a full day exploring everything Tivoli has to offer.

For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting in the late afternoon. This allows you to see Tivoli in daylight, watch the sun set over the whimsical architecture, and then witness the thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the park at night. Be sure to check their schedule for fireworks displays on select evenings, which are truly a highlight.

The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue)

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale, The Little Mermaid statue is a quintessential Copenhagen photo opportunity and one of the iconic things to do in Copenhagen with kids. While the bronze statue itself is small, the story behind it sparks vivid imagination in children, making it more than just a quick stop. This landmark offers a chance for a pleasant walk along the Langelinie promenade, providing some fresh air and scenic views of the harbor.

There is no cost to view The Little Mermaid, making it a free and accessible attraction. Stroller access along the Langelinie promenade is very easy, ensuring a smooth experience for families with little ones. Most families find that 15-30 minutes is sufficient time for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

To avoid large crowds and capture the best unobstructed family photos, it’s best to arrive early in the morning. After your visit, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the picturesque waterfront, perhaps continuing your exploration of this beautiful city.

Nyhavn Harbor

The picturesque 17th-century Nyhavn harbor district is instantly recognizable for its colorful townhouses, historic wooden ships, and vibrant, bustling atmosphere. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk along the canal, stop for a delicious ice cream, or embark on an exciting canal tour. It’s undeniably a perfect spot for capturing memorable family photos and truly soaking in that unique Danish charm, a must-see for anyone exploring things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

Exploring Nyhavn on foot is free, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds at your own pace. If you choose to take a canal tour, prices typically range from approximately DKK 40-100 for children and DKK 95-150 for adults. Stroller access is generally good along the waterfront, although it can become quite crowded, especially during peak tourist hours. Allow 1-2 hours for a relaxed stroll, plus additional time if you opt for a boat tour.

Taking a canal boat tour directly from Nyhavn is highly recommended. It offers a fantastic way to see many of Copenhagen’s famous landmarks from the water, which can be incredibly engaging for kids and provides a welcome rest for tired legs after a day of exploring. This can be easily combined with other activities or a tour. For more travel ideas in Europe, explore our comprehensive destination guides.

Rosenborg Castle & King’s Garden (Kongens Have)

Rosenborg Castle is a stunning Renaissance castle that proudly houses the Danish Crown Jewels and other magnificent royal treasures. The surrounding King’s Garden, or Kongens Have, provides a beautiful and expansive green space that is perfect for kids to run around, play freely, and enjoy a family picnic. While exploring the gardens, look for the intricate statues, the vibrant rose garden, and discover plenty of open areas for children to stretch their legs and burn off energy.

While the gardens are free to enter, there are castle entrance fees, though children are often admitted for free or at a discounted rate. Inside the castle, you will find stairs, which may limit stroller access in some areas, so a baby carrier might be a better option for infants. However, the King’s Garden is exceptionally stroller-friendly, with wide, easy paths. Expect to spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the castle and an additional 1-2 hours enjoying the gardens.

A smart tip is to let the kids explore the King’s Garden playground either before or after visiting the castle. This allows them to release some energy and have some unstructured play time, which often leads to a more focused and enjoyable experience when it’s time to appreciate the historical exhibits inside the castle.

Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace serves as the official residence of the Danish Royal Family and is comprised of four identical palace facades surrounding a grand octagonal courtyard. A definite highlight for children, and a popular choice among things to do in Copenhagen with kids, is witnessing the Changing of the Royal Guard. This ceremony features a marching band and impressive uniforms, providing an exciting display of royal tradition that captivates young audiences.

While there is an entrance fee if you wish to explore the palace museum, watching the daily Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony in the square is completely free. Stroller access is excellent within the spacious palace square, though it may be restricted inside the museum itself. The guard change typically lasts about 30-45 minutes, while a visit to the museum might take 1-1.5 hours.

To ensure you get a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 12:00 PM, we recommend arriving 15-20 minutes early. This is a punctual event that you and your family won’t want to miss during your visit to Copenhagen.

Rundetaarn (The Round Tower)

The Rundetaarn, or The Round Tower, offers a truly unique experience as you climb its spiraling ramp – no stairs in sight! This structure leads you to the top of Europe’s oldest functioning observatory. The wide, gentle slope makes the ascent and descent fun for kids, and once at the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Copenhagen. Inside, there’s also a small exhibition space and occasionally cultural events, adding to its appeal as one of the interesting things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

There is a small entrance fee to access the tower, with discounted rates typically available for children. While it is technically possible to push a stroller up the ramp, it can be quite challenging due to narrow passages and potential crowds during peak times. A baby carrier is often a more practical and comfortable option for families with infants. Most families spend around 45 minutes to an hour exploring the tower and enjoying the views.

For older children, a fun way to keep them engaged during the climb is to encourage them to count the number of times they’ve walked around the central column on their way up. This adds a playful challenge and helps to make the ascent feel less tedious and more like an adventure.

Strøget (Pedestrian Shopping Street)

Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, buzzes with a lively atmosphere, featuring a variety of shops, cafes, and engaging street performers. While extensive shopping might not be at the top of a child’s list of things to do in Copenhagen with kids, the vibrant street entertainers, inviting toy stores, and tempting ice cream parlors provide plenty of interest and welcome distractions for young travelers.

It costs nothing to wander and explore Strøget, making it a free and flexible activity. Stroller access is excellent along this flat pedestrian zone, offering a smooth surface for pushing prams. However, it can become very busy, especially during peak shopping hours, so be prepared for crowds. A leisurely stroll typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how many stops you make.

A guaranteed hit with kids along Strøget is the LEGO Store. As a truly Danish brand, it offers an immersive experience for young builders. Visiting in the mornings often means fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable browse through the colorful displays.

Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace is a grand architectural marvel that serves as home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s Office. Families have the opportunity to explore various parts of this significant building, including the opulent Royal Reception Rooms, the historic Royal Stables, and can even climb the Tower for breathtaking panoramic city views. The horses in the Royal Stables are always a big hit with animal-loving children, providing a fascinating glimpse into royal life and one of the engaging things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

Please note that separate tickets are required for different areas of the palace, though combination tickets are often available to explore multiple attractions. Stroller access can be variable; some areas are well-accessible, while others may require leaving strollers at designated points, so plan accordingly. You can expect to spend approximately 2-3 hours exploring the major attractions within Christiansborg Palace.

A fantastic tip for families is that the Tower is free to visit and offers one of the absolute best panoramic views of Copenhagen. Unlike the Round Tower, it requires minimal strenuous climbing, making it an excellent payoff for little effort and a great way to see the city from above.

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Hands-on Activities & Local Favorites

Experimentarium

Experimentarium is a fantastic science center specifically designed for interactive learning and playful exploration. Kids can immerse themselves in a world of hands-on experiments, engaging physical challenges, and captivating exhibits that explain complex scientific principles in a fun, accessible way. It’s an ideal destination for curious minds of all ages and a perfect option for families seeking educational things to do in Copenhagen with kids, especially on a rainy day.

There is an entrance fee to Experimentarium, and it’s worth checking their website for family tickets and potential online discounts. The facilities are modern and spacious, offering excellent stroller access throughout, with wide pathways and elevators. Most families find that a visit of 3-4 hours allows ample time to explore and engage with the various exhibits.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to check Experimentarium’s schedule for live shows and workshops, as these are often conducted in English and can significantly enhance the interactive experience. Additionally, booking your tickets online in advance can help save you valuable time upon arrival, allowing you to dive straight into the fun.

National Museum of Denmark (Børnenes Museum – Children’s Museum)

While the main National Museum of Denmark offers captivating exhibits for all ages, the dedicated Children’s Museum (Børnenes Museum) located within is an absolute gem for families. Here, kids can fully immerse themselves in Danish history through interactive displays, such as dressing up as Vikings, exploring a traditional 1920s classroom, or playing inside a Greenlandic house. This hands-on approach makes learning about the past exciting and memorable.

The best part for families is that both the main museum and the Children’s Museum are completely free to enter. Stroller access is excellent throughout the museum, with convenient elevators available to all floors. Most families can comfortably spend 2-3 hours just in the Children’s Museum alone, with plenty to keep young ones engaged.

To enrich the children’s experience even further, consider combining your visit to the Children’s Museum with a trip to the main museum’s Viking exhibit. This provides a valuable historical context for their role-playing and helps connect their imaginative play to real Danish history, making it one of the most engaging things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

Copenhagen Zoo (København Zoo)

The Copenhagen Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals and boasts spacious habitats with a strong emphasis on conservation. Highlights for families searching for things to do in Copenhagen with kids include the impressive Arctic Ring, where you can watch polar bears swim, the magnificent elephant house, and the charming new panda enclosure. Beyond the animal exhibits, the zoo also features several engaging playgrounds, perfect for a break and for kids to expend some energy.

There is an entrance fee for the Copenhagen Zoo, and if you plan on staying longer or visiting multiple times, annual passes are available. Stroller access is excellent throughout the park, with wide and well-paved paths making navigation easy for families. A typical visit to the zoo usually lasts between 3-5 hours, offering plenty of time to see a wide variety of animals.

To plan your day efficiently and ensure you catch your favorite animals or specific shows, we highly recommend downloading the zoo’s official app. It provides a detailed map, up-to-date feeding times, and show schedules, helping you maximize your visit and avoid missing out on any exciting animal encounters.

Blue Planet Aquarium (Den Blå Planet)

The Blue Planet Aquarium, or Den Blå Planet, stands as Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, a true marvel of modern architecture and marine life. Children will be absolutely mesmerized by the majestic hammerhead sharks, the playful sea otters, and the immense ocean tank that houses a vibrant array of aquatic creatures. The interactive exhibits scattered throughout the aquarium make learning about diverse aquatic ecosystems both exciting and incredibly memorable, ranking it high among the educational things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

There is an entrance fee for the Blue Planet Aquarium, with discounts often available for children and families. The facility is very accessible, offering excellent stroller access with ramps and elevators throughout, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. Most families find that 2-3 hours is a good duration to explore the various zones and enjoy the interactive displays.

For an even more dynamic experience, try to visit during scheduled feeding times, especially for the sharks and sea otters; check the daily schedule upon arrival. Additionally, the aquarium’s convenient location near Copenhagen Airport makes it a perfect and easy activity to enjoy either upon arrival in the city or just before your departure.

Bakken (Dyrehavsbakken)

Bakken, officially known as Dyrehavsbakken, holds the esteemed title of the world’s oldest operating amusement park. It offers a wonderfully charming, old-fashioned carnival feel, nestled gracefully within a beautiful deer park. This park presents a fantastic alternative to Tivoli, often providing a more local vibe and the significant advantage of free entry – you only pay per ride or can purchase an unlimited ride pass. Families can enjoy classic rides and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, making it a unique entry on the list of things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

Entry to Bakken itself is free, allowing you to stroll through and soak in the atmosphere without commitment. If you choose to enjoy the attractions, you can pay per ride or opt for an unlimited ride wristband, with seasonal pricing available. Stroller access is generally good, though some areas may be a bit uneven due to the park’s historic nature. Families typically spend 3-5 hours enjoying the rides and entertainment.

To make a full day of it, combine your visit to Bakken with a leisurely walk or bike ride through Jægersborg Dyrehave, the stunning deer park in which Bakken is situated. Keep your eyes peeled for the wild deer that roam freely, adding an extra layer of nature and wonder to your day of thrills and fun.

Freetown Christiania

Freetown Christiania is a truly unique, self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood that offers a fascinating cultural experience. While it does carry an edgy reputation, its car-free streets, vibrantly colored houses, and distinctive art installations can make for an interesting and thought-provoking stroll for older children and teenagers. It provides a rare glimpse into an alternative lifestyle and community, quite unlike anything else you’ll find on your list of things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

There is no cost to enter Christiania, making it a free cultural exploration. Stroller access is mostly paved, though some spots can be uneven, and the area can become quite crowded, which might be a consideration for families with very young children. A visit typically lasts 1-2 hours, giving you enough time to walk around and observe the unique environment.

It’s important to note that Freetown Christiania is best visited during daylight hours, and it’s advisable to stick to the main paths. Out of respect for the community’s unique customs and rules, especially in the “Green Light District” section, it is strongly recommended to avoid taking photos there. This ensures a respectful and positive experience for everyone.

Reffen (Copenhagen Street Food)

Reffen is a vibrant and expansive outdoor street food market that offers an incredible variety of international cuisines, making it a fantastic culinary adventure for families. It provides a wonderfully relaxed dining experience where everyone can choose from numerous different food stalls, enjoy the picturesque waterside views, and often catch live music or other events. There truly is something for every palate here, establishing it as a must-visit among things to do in Copenhagen with kids for food lovers.

Prices at individual food stalls typically vary, with dishes generally costing around DKK 60-120. Reffen is an open-air space with plenty of room to navigate, offering excellent stroller access and a relaxed environment. Families usually spend 1.5-2.5 hours enjoying a meal and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

To find tables more easily and avoid the busiest rush, consider arriving slightly before peak lunch or dinner times. Many stalls at Reffen are great for families, offering smaller portions suitable for kids or convenient easy-to-share options, which makes dining flexible and enjoyable for everyone. For other city break ideas, check out Berlin with Kids or Paris with Kids.

Superkilen Park

Superkilen Park is a strikingly modern public park that stands as a true design marvel, offering three distinct and engaging zones: The Red Square, designed for play and sports; The Black Market, a space for social gathering and relaxation; and The Green Park, featuring rolling hills and natural landscapes. What makes this park truly unique is its collection of bizarre and wonderful objects sourced from around the world, creating a global playground that appeals to all ages and is a truly novel experience for things to do in Copenhagen with kids.

Entry to Superkilen Park is completely free, providing an accessible and fun outing for families. The park features well-paved and accessible paths throughout, making stroller access excellent and easy to navigate. Most families find that spending 1-2 hours here is sufficient to explore the different zones and enjoy the unique installations.

To engage children even further, encourage them to play a game of finding objects from various countries and guessing their origin. This interactive approach is a fun way to connect them with global culture through active play and exploration, turning a park visit into a mini world tour. You might even discover more about Copenhagen‘s history and global connections.

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Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing

1. Public Transportation is Your Friend: Copenhagen’s public transport system, encompassing the metro, S-trains, and buses, is incredibly efficient, clean, and remarkably family-friendly. For ease of travel and cost savings, consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card. This card often provides unlimited travel and free or discounted entry to a multitude of attractions, significantly simplifying your family’s daily movements around the city. When considering other Scandinavian adventures, remember that navigating cities like Oslo with kids and Stockholm with kids also benefits greatly from excellent public transport.

2. Embrace Cycling (with caution): Copenhagen is renowned as a world-class cycling city, and renting bikes, including cargo bikes (Christiania bikes) designed for comfortably transporting younger children, is a fantastic way to explore. However, it’s crucial to be aware of local bike lane etiquette and ensure that younger children are comfortable and safe in city traffic, or alternatively, stick to designated park paths and less busy routes for a more relaxed ride. For ranked lists of things to do in other major cities, check out our guides on Ranked Best Things to Do Stockholm Kids or Ranked Best Things to Do Oslo Kids.

3. Meal Times Are Earlier Than Southern Europe: Danes typically enjoy their evening meal earlier than in many Southern European countries, often dining between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM. Many restaurants in Copenhagen cater to this local custom, so it’s wise to plan your family’s evenings accordingly. This strategy helps you avoid potentially long waits for hungry kids, especially if your family is accustomed to dining at later hours.

4. Dress in Layers, Prepare for Weather: Copenhagen’s weather can be quite unpredictable, even during the summer months. Packing layers is absolutely essential, and a reliable waterproof jacket for every member of the family is highly recommended. The often-present wind can make even mild days feel cooler, so being prepared for sudden changes in temperature and unexpected showers will ensure everyone stays comfortable and enjoys their day. This is a common tip we offer for destinations like London with kids or Vienna with kids.

5. Utilize City Playgrounds: Copenhagen boasts a multitude of fantastic public playgrounds, each thoughtfully designed with creativity and safety in mind. It’s highly beneficial to factor in time for unstructured play at places like the expansive playground in Fælledparken or the uniquely themed Superkilen Park. These opportunities for free play provide a much-needed break from scheduled sightseeing for active kids, allowing them to burn off energy and simply be children. For more tips on making the most of your family trip, you can always build a personalized trip with Kiddometer.

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Final Thoughts on Your Copenhagen Adventure

Copenhagen is truly a city that sparkles with irresistible family appeal. From its enchanting fairytale castles and thrilling amusement parks like Tivoli Gardens, to its innovative science centers and delicious street food markets, there’s an endless supply of joy and discovery for every member of your family. As you explore the various things to do in Copenhagen with kids, you’ll find that the city embraces the Danish concept of ‘hygge’ – a feeling of coziness and contentment – creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Embrace this unique charm and create lasting memories in this vibrant Scandinavian capital, a destination sure to delight travelers of all ages. For more great family travel ideas, check out Ranked Best Things to Do Berlin Kids.

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