Copenhagen · Denmark · Things to do
5 things to do in Copenhagen with kids
The five best family things to do in Copenhagen are walking the colourful harbour at Nyhavn, finding the Little Mermaid statue, riding the rides at Tivoli Gardens, hiring bikes for a day, and watching the guard at the royal palace. The city centre is compact and flat, so most of this works on foot or by bike, in any season.
What to do, in order
- 1
See colourful Nyhavn
Nyhavn is a seventeenth-century harbour canal lined with brightly painted townhouses, wooden boats and outdoor cafes. It is the postcard view of Copenhagen, and it is free to walk. Go in the morning for fewer crowds and softer light, or come back in the evening when the lights come on. Cafes on the main strip are the most expensive, so many families buy a snack elsewhere and sit on the quay. Canal tour boats leave from the harbour, which is a relaxed way to see the city from the water with children.
- 2
Find the Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid statue sits on a rock by the waterfront in the Langelinie area, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. It is smaller than most people expect, so manage expectations with children. The walk there along the harbour and through the Kastellet fortress park makes the trip worthwhile. It can be reached on foot along the harbour, by bike, by bus or by harbour boat. Go early or late to avoid tour groups, and plan to combine it with a picnic.
- 3
Ride Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli opened in 1843 and is one of the oldest amusement parks still running. It is a garden with rides, restaurants and concerts in the middle of the city, so it feels different from a modern theme park. There is a wooden roller coaster, gentler rides for young children and fireworks or lights on some evenings. Opening dates vary through the year, with a summer season and special winter and Halloween periods, so check before planning. Tickets for entry and for rides can be sold separately, so check what you need before queueing.
- 4
Rent bikes
Copenhagen is one of the easiest cities in the world for cycling, with wide separated bike lanes and drivers who expect cyclists. Many shops rent standard bikes, and some rent cargo bikes or child seats, which are good for families with toddlers. Older children can ride in the car-free lanes. Learn the basics first: use hand signals, stay to the right, and watch for locals who ride fast. Cycle to the harbour baths, parks and the waterfront. Do not leave a bike unlocked, even for a minute.
- 5
Watch the palace guards
The royal guards wear tall bearskin hats and blue trousers, and march from their barracks to Amalienborg Palace every day for the changing of the guard, around midday. The palace sits around a square with an equestrian statue in the middle, and the ceremony is free. Children like the marching and the horses on some days. Arrive a little early for a spot at the front, and keep behind the barriers. Combine it with a visit to Frederik's Church nearby, or a walk down to Nyhavn, which is a few minutes away.
Plan it
- Best time
- June to August is warm with long evenings, and the busiest. May and September are milder and quieter. December has Christmas markets and lights at Tivoli, but days are short and cold.
- How long
- Three days covers the five and leaves room for a museum or a beach day. Add one more day if you want to visit a castle in North Zealand.
- Getting around
- The metro, buses and trains share one ticket system, and the centre is easy to walk or cycle. Rent a bike for a day rather than relying on taxis. The airport is connected to the city centre by metro and train in about fifteen minutes.
Good to know
- Bring a rain jacket. Weather can change quickly, even in summer.
- Many cafes and museums accept cards only, so you rarely need cash.
- Look for free playgrounds in the city parks, which are often well designed and well kept.
Frequently asked
Is Copenhagen good for families with young children? +
Yes. It is safe, compact and built for pedestrians and bikes. There are many playgrounds, family cafes and child-friendly attractions, and public transport is easy. Prices are high, so picnics and free parks help.
How many days do you need in Copenhagen with kids? +
Three days is comfortable for the main sights. With four or five days you can add a castle trip, a beach day, or a visit to the zoo or the aquarium.
Is Tivoli Gardens worth it with kids? +
For most families, yes. It is a small, pretty park with rides for different ages, and it is especially good in the evening. Check opening dates, since it closes for parts of the year, and decide whether you want rides or just entry.
What is the best time to visit Copenhagen with kids? +
June to August has the warmest weather and the longest days. May and September are quieter. In winter it is dark and cold, but Christmas lights and markets can make it a good short trip.