Top 10 Free things to do in Copenhagen for first timers

top 10 Free things to do in Copenhagen

Although Denmark in general is considered an expensive country to visit, it can be done on a budget. There are many free things to do in Copenhagen so that you can make the most of your visit and still be on a budget.

Here are my top 10 free things to do in Copenhagen that you cannot miss if it’s your first time visiting. All of these are completely free to view and explore.

1) See Nyhavn

This picturesque street in Copenhagen is beautiful to visit and for that reason, it is very touristy. I would advise coming here early in the morning to avoid the crowds. There are many restaurants around however they are pricey.

If you want to see Copenhagen from a different angle I would highly recommend a river cruise from Nyhavn. This takes you along the river up to the little mermaid statue and under the tightest of bridges.

Note: some of the bridges are so low you will be required to literally duck. It is so nice to see Copenhagen from a different perspective while still on a budget. The river cruise currently costs £12.

2) The Little Mermaid Statue

It is probably the most popular attraction in Copenhagen. Hans Christian Anderson (who wrote The Little Mermaid) is Danish, which is why this statue was created. Be aware that she is smaller than you think so you may be a little disappointed.

3) Assistens Cemetery

Assistens Cemetery is the most beautiful cemetery I have ever visited. Here you can bike through certain parts or go for a stroll. Hans Christian Anderson is buried here and his grave is signposted so you can’t miss it.

4) Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg

The changing of the guard at Amalienborg happens every day at 12:00pm. I would advise getting there a bit early just to get a good spot for viewing as again it does get very busy.

5) Visit Frederik’s Church

A short walk from Amalienborg is Frederik’s church, also known as the Marble Church. It is free to go inside.

6) Botanical Gardens

Copenhagen is home to the botanical gardens and it is completely free to explore. If it’s a beautiful day you may want to take a picnic and sit on the grassy verge.

They do however have a butterfly garden (which is paid) if you are interested.

7) Kastellet

Kastellet is a fortress built in the 1600s in the shape of a pentagon with bastions at every corner. Kastellet was a delight to cycle around (even though some parts were quite steep).

I’d recommend finding the windmill in Kastellet which is so pretty I couldn’t resist not taking a photo.

8) Ny Carlsberg Gyptoket

The Glyptotek’s superlative collection contains over 10,000 works of art and archaeological objects and offers ever new perspectives on life, culture and civilization through a time span of 6,000 years.

Taken from Ny Carlsberg Gyptoket

This museum is a must-see when you visit Copenhagen. It is pretty big with so much to see. Be sure to check out the rooftop terrace and the cafe (which is super adorable).

Free entry for adults on the last Wednesday of the month only. All other days are paid entry. Free for under-18s throughout the year.

9) Rosenborg Castle

Free to explore the gardens however there is a paid entry if you want to enter the castle.

10) Freetown Christiania

This controversial place is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. If going solo I would stick to the main “touristy” section of Freetown Christiania. Personally I would go here during the day. Just be aware of taking videos and photos as there are signs in places where it is advised not to take any pictures.

In the army barracks in Copenhagen, you can walk and explore through a lot of it. There is a wonderful windmill here which I thought was so pretty – something not to be missed.

Free on Tuesdays only. The Ny Carlsberg Gyptoket is a museum in Copenhagen and has a wonderful garden to it.

Other Free things to do in Copenhagen

Copenhagen City Hall

The tower is currently closed due to renovation work. Tours are available at Copenhagen City Hall but are paid. Located in the central square you will find pop-up shops and markets around as well as entertainers around the square.

Christiansborg Palace

Once home to the Danish royal family (they have since moved to Amalienborg), Christiansborg Palace now houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. 

Christiansborg Palace Tower is free to go up and offers amazing views of Copenhagen – something not to be missed. The exterior is also impressive so I’d definitely add this to your free things to do in Copenhagen itinerary.

The royal reception rooms, the royal kitchen, the royal stables, the ruins, the chapel, and Christian IV’s Brewery are all paid at Christiansborg Palace. Be sure to check the dates you want to visit as when the Danish Parliament are in it won’t be possible.

Grabrodretorv

It’s a pretty street to visit. It is very similar to Nyhavn but nowhere near as popular and nowhere near the river. There are also some nice cafes in the area to rest and enjoy the view.

Stroget

If you want to shop and buy souvenirs then Stroget is the place to go. It is the shopping district in Copenhagen with well-known high-street stores as well as boutique shops.

Dronning Louises Bro

A beautiful bridge I found while biking in Copenhagen. There are a lot of benches along the bridge which makes it a perfect rest or snack break.

See Chuch of our Saviour

The Church of our Saviour is different from any church I have ever seen as it has a spiral on the outside.

It is free to see however there is a charge to go inside and walk up the spiral.

Free things to do in Copenhagen resources

– The best way to get around is by bike. I got the app Donkey Republic where you can purchase an hour, a day-a-week bike rental. The bikes are bright orange and are named so you can find them. This is the most cost-effective way to get around Copenhagen as everywhere is flat.

– Where to stay on a budget in Copenhagen? I stayed in both City Hub Copenhagen (a capsule hotel) and also The Next House Copenhagen (a luxury hostel) Both these hotels were affordable and a bit different to your standard hotel/hostel.

– Where to eat in Copenhagen? I would recommend the food markets Torvellene and Raffen. There is a wide selection of food available at affordable prices as both are street food.

– I often get asked how long do I need in Copenhagen and this really depends on what you want to do. I spent 3 days in Copenhagen but I did do a day trip to Malmo, Sweden as well.

– One of the top-paid things to do in Copenhagen is visit Tivoli Gardens. This is an old amusement park that is great for everyone children and family alike. You most likely will spend the whole day here. There is an entrance fee and then the amusement park is at an additional cost however you can get unlimited rides and the queues aren’t long at all. Make sure you grab a programme on the day. When I went there were fireworks and a water show that were free to watch.