Best 10 Family Things to Do in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is widely celebrated as one of the most family-friendly capitals in the world, combining fairy-tale charm with cutting-edge urban design. From the historic magic of Tivoli Gardens and Viking adventures at the National Museum to rooftop playgrounds and world-class interactive science centers, the Danish capital turns sight-seeing into pure play. Designed around seamless public transport, safe cycling lanes, and welcoming public spaces, Copenhagen makes travelling with kids effortless and inspiring. This curated guide highlights the 10 absolute best family experiences in Copenhagen, packed with practical timing tips, precise GPS locations, and local insider advice to help you build an unforgettable trip.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
May to September (warm weather & long daylight)
Currency
Danish Krone (DKK)
Language
Danish (English widely spoken)
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2 in summer)
Why Visit Copenhagen for Family Adventures?
Fairy-Tale Amusement Parks
Step into the magical Tivoli Gardens, the world’s second-oldest operating amusement park that inspired Walt Disney.
Interactive Science & Play
Spark young imaginations at hands-on science centers like Experimentarium and rooftop active zones like CopenHill.
Canal Cruises & Nyhavn
Glide along scenic harbor canals past colorful townhouses, historic ships, and the Little Mermaid statue.
Royal Palaces & Gardens
Explore royal history at Rosenborg Castle, watch the changing of the guard at Amalienborg, and relax in The King’s Garden.
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Navigate clean, pedestrianized streets, harbor baths, and dedicated cargo bike paths effortlessly. Book a Guided Walking Tour ↗
How to Get to Copenhagen
Copenhagen serves as Scandinavia’s main transport hub, offering smooth international flight links and high-speed rail connections.
By Plane (Airport)
Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup (CPH): Located just 8 km south of the city center. Connected directly to Copenhagen Central Station (København H) and Nørreport by frequent driverless Metro Line M2 and regional DSB trains (approx. 13–15 minutes).
Compare flight routes and prices using our Flight Search Widget ↓ below.
By Train (DSB & International Rail)
The principal railway station is Copenhagen Central Station (København H), located right opposite Tivoli Gardens.
Frequent DSB and SJ trains connect Copenhagen across the Öresund Bridge to Malmö (Sweden) in 35 minutes, Hamburg (Germany) in under 5 hours, and Aarhus in 3 hours.
How to Get Around Copenhagen
Copenhagen features a world-class public transportation system operated by DOT, combining a 24/7 automated metro, S-trains, yellow harbor buses, and extensive bike lanes.
| Transport Type | Best For | Useful Details & Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Walking & Cycling | Exploring Nyhavn, Strøget, historic gardens & harbor parks | Free on foot. Copenhagen is world-famous for cycling; cargo bikes (*Christianiabikes*) are ideal for family travel. |
| Driverless Metro (M1–M4) | Fast 24/7 cross-city transit, airport links & harbor crossings | Clean, fully automated, and running 24/7. Tap-to-pay via contactless card is accepted, and up to two kids under 12 travel free per paying adult. |
| Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Boat | Relaxed family sightseeing & scenic harbor canal loops | Enjoy flexible sightseeing with the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Tour Option. |
| Harbor Bus (Havnebus) | Scenic water transit between Nyhavn, Opera House & Little Mermaid | Yellow electric water ferries (lines 991/992). Standard DOT metro and bus tickets or the Copenhagen Card are valid onboard. |
Where to stay in Copenhagen, Denmark
Not sure where to book? We’ve rounded up the best hotels in Copenhagen for every budget, with live prices and availability.
Tivoli Gardens
The Experience
Stepping through the historic gates of Tivoli Gardens feels like entering a living fairy-tale book. Opened in 1843, it is the world's second-oldest operating amusement park, blending nostalgic wooden rollercoasters with lush exotic gardens, oriental pagodas, and vibrant light installations. What I love most is how the atmosphere shifts throughout the day: afternoons are perfect for strolling among flower beds and riding family-friendly carousels, while dusk transforms the entire park into an enchanting wonderland lit by thousands of glowing lanterns.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider Tivoli Gardens to be the indisputable heart of family entertainment in Copenhagen. It inspired Walt Disney himself and offers an irreplaceable blend of historic charm, thrill rides, and cultural performances.
Make the most of it
I strongly recommend purchasing ride passes online in advance to bypass long ticket queues at the main entrance. If you are travelling with young children, plan your visit for late afternoon so you can experience both daytime play and the magical evening illumination without staying out past bedtime.
When to go
Late afternoon around 4:00 PM, staying through dusk to catch the garden illuminations.
Before you visit
Tivoli operates on a seasonal schedule (Summer, Halloween, and Christmas seasons), closing for brief periods in late winter to prepare for new setups. Check seasonal dates before booking.
Plan your visit
Located right opposite Copenhagen Central Station (København H). Entrance tickets start from 160 DKK for adults; ride passes are sold separately. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (until 11:00 PM on weekends).
Book your visit:
Experimentarium
The Experience
Experimentarium is a massive, world-class hands-on science center where touch and play are strictly mandatory. Spread across three expansive floors topped with a striking copper helical staircase, kids can step inside giant soap bubbles, ride a interactive rooftop energy track, and test their senses in immersive sound and light tunnels. What I enjoy most is the Bubble Pavilion, where children can physically enclose themselves in enormous shimmering water bubbles.
Why it’s worth your time
I think this is hands-down the best indoor family attraction in Scandinavia, making science wildly fun and accessible for toddlers, children, and teenagers alike.
Make the most of it
I advise visiting on a weekday morning right at opening time to enjoy the popular interactive exhibits before school groups arrive. Don't miss the interactive rooftop sports arena on sunny days.
When to go
Weekday mornings around 9:30 AM or ideal as a rainy day escape.
Before you visit
The water experiment zones can get kids slightly wet, so packing a small spare shirt or towel for toddlers is a smart move.
Plan your visit
Located in Hellerup, a short 15-minute journey from Central Copenhagen. Take S-train line C or E to Svanemøllen Station or bus 1A. Tickets cost around 225 DKK for adults and 145 DKK for children aged 3–11. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Book your visit:
Copenhagen Zoo
The Experience
Founded in 1859, Copenhagen Zoo is one of Europe's oldest yet most progressive animal parks. It features world-renowned architectural enclosures, including Norman Foster’s glass-domed Elephant House and the striking Panda House shaped like a yin-yang symbol. What I love most is the underground elephant viewing area, where kids can watch giant Asian elephants swimming underwater right in front of their eyes.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider this zoo an essential stop for families because of its deep focus on animal welfare, magnificent modern design, and huge petting zoo area dedicated to younger children.
Make the most of it
My favorite insider tip is to check the daily feeding schedule online upon arrival so you can time your route around the polar bear, penguin, and elephant feeding sessions.
When to go
Morning hours around 10:00 AM, when animals are most active and zookeeper talks take place.
Before you visit
The zoo allows you to bring your own food and picnics, with dedicated indoor and outdoor picnic areas available throughout the grounds.
Plan your visit
Located in Frederiksberg. Take Bus 7A or Metro line M3 to Frederiksberg Allé or Valby Station. Tickets cost approximately 249 DKK for adults and 139 DKK for children. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (extended hours in summer).
Book your visit:
CopenHill
The Experience
CopenHill is an astonishing masterpiece of modern Danish urban design—a zero-emission waste-to-energy plant topped with a artificial green ski slope, hiking trails, and a climbing wall. Families can take a glass elevator up the side of the building to enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Copenhagen's skyline and harbour, or hike up the rooftop trails surrounded by alpine flora. What I find most thrilling is watching skiers whiz down the synthetic slope while families enjoy coffee at the rooftop cafe.
Why it’s worth your time
I regard CopenHill as an unmissable showcase of Scandinavian eco-innovation that older kids and teenagers will talk about long after returning home.
Make the most of it
You don't need to ski to enjoy CopenHill; hiking to the top via the stairs/path or taking the internal glass elevator is free. If your kids want to try dry-slope skiing or sledding, reserve equipment online in advance.
When to go
Clear afternoons for sunset views over the harbor.
Before you visit
The rooftop can get quite windy due to its exposure; bring an extra windproof layer even on warm days.
Plan your visit
Located in Amager. Take bus 2A to Refshaleøen or bike along the harbor path. Access to the rooftop trail and view is free; ski pass and rental fees apply if skiing. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM (earlier opening on weekends).
Book your visit:
The Children's Museum (Børnemuseet)
The Experience
Tucked inside the magnificent National Museum of Denmark, the Children's Museum (Børnemuseet) is an entire interactive wing where touch is encouraged and history is experienced through play. Children can climb aboard a reconstructed Viking longship, explore a medieval castle kitchen, write on slate boards in a 1920s classroom, or dress up in authentic historic costumes. What I love most is how effortlessly it translates Nordic history into imaginative role-play.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider this to be the most engaging historical attraction for children under 12 in Copenhagen, turning museum fatigue into interactive fun.
Make the most of it
Combine your visit with a quick walk through the main museum's Viking exhibit to see real gold hoards and Viking weapons after your kids have played on the longship.
When to go
Weekday afternoons around 1:30 PM, when morning school groups have departed.
Before you visit
Entry to the Children's Museum is included in the standard National Museum ticket, and children under 18 enter entirely free of charge.
Plan your visit
Located in Central Copenhagen near Tivoli. Short walk from Rådhuspladsen Metro Station. Adult tickets cost 130 DKK; free for kids under 18. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Book your visit:
Nyhavn & Canal Tour
The Experience
Gliding through Copenhagen's picturesque harbors and narrow canals offers a unique perspective on the city’s architectural treasures. Departing from the iconic pastel-colored townhouses of Nyhavn, open-air boat tours navigate past Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Opera House, and the famous Little Mermaid statue. What I enjoy most is the ducking under ridiculously low stone bridges, which always brings gasps and laughter from kids onboard.
Why it’s worth your time
I think a guided canal cruise is the single best way to orient your family with Copenhagen's landmarks without tiring out little feet.
Make the most of it
I strongly recommend choosing boutique eco-boat operators like Hey Captain for smaller groups and personal stories, or Stromma for classic covered boats on rainy days.
When to go
Mid-morning around 10:30 AM to start your day's sightseeing from the water.
Before you visit
Keep a camera ready as you pass The Little Mermaid—viewing the statue from the water completely avoids the crowded shore platform.
Plan your visit
Boats depart regularly from Nyhavn or Ved Stranden. Metro station Kongens Nytorv is 3 minutes away. Standard 1-hour canal tours cost around 109 DKK for adults and 45 DKK for kids. Tours run daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Book your visit:
The King's Garden (Kongens Have)
The Experience
The King's Garden (Kongens Have) is Denmark’s oldest royal garden, framing the fairy-tale Renaissance Rosenborg Castle. Beyond its manicured rose gardens and tree-lined avenues lies one of the city's finest artistic playgrounds. Designed with carved wooden dragons, golden crowns, and sea monsters, kids can burn off energy climbing and sliding while parents rest on surrounding park benches. What I love most is the relaxed local vibe of families enjoying picnics on the royal lawns.
Why it’s worth your time
It provides a perfect balance of royal culture and outdoor play, allowing parents to admire Rosenborg Castle while kids enjoy creative outdoor fun.
Make the most of it
Stop by a nearby bakery to grab cinnamon rolls (kanelsnegle) or coffee before entering the park for a classic Danish hygge picnic.
When to go
Sunny afternoons between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
Before you visit
The playground is free and public, but if you wish to see the Crown Jewels inside Rosenborg Castle, book time-slotted tickets in advance online.
Plan your visit
Entrance is free to the garden grounds. Located a short walk from Nørreport Station. Gardens open daily from 7:00 AM until sunset.
Book your visit:
Danish Architecture Center (DAC)
The Experience
Located in the striking BLOX glass building along Copenhagen's waterfront, the Danish Architecture Center makes design and urban living fun for all ages. The highlight for children is undoubtedly the DAC Slide—a 40-meter-long, 4-story spiral tube slide that twists down through the center of the building. Inside, family interactive zones like Educatorium allow kids to build their dream cities using LEGO bricks and digital tools.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider DAC a hidden gem for families because it successfully turns architectural design into an exhilarating, hands-on playground.
Make the most of it
Ride the spiral slide multiple times (included with admission) and make sure to visit the rooftop terrace for breathtaking views over the harbor and glass bridges.
When to go
Late morning around 11:00 AM.
Before you visit
Children must be at least 110 cm tall to ride the 40-meter spiral slide.
Plan your visit
Located at Bryghuspladsen on the waterfront. Nearest metro station is Gammel Strand or Rådhuspladsen. Adult tickets are 115 DKK; free for under 18s. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Thursdays until 9:00 PM).
Book your visit:
Konditaget Århusgade
The Experience
Perched 24 meters above ground on the roof of a multi-storey parking structure in the modern Nordhavn district, Konditaget Århusgade is an extraordinary public rooftop playground. Reached via external stairs or an elevator, it features sunken trampolines, climbing ropes, swing sets, and running tracks overlooking the working harbor and ocean. What I love most is the sheer surprise of finding a vibrant sports and play haven on top of a parking garage.
Why it’s worth your time
Recommended heavily by local Copenhagen parents, this off-the-beaten-path gem lets your family experience progressive Danish public architecture firsthand.
Make the most of it
Pair your visit with a stroll around the contemporary waterfront of Nordhavn and grab ice cream or coffee at the nearby harbor basin.
When to go
Early morning or late afternoon on clear days.
Before you visit
This is a free public facility with no admission fee or ticket booth.
Plan your visit
Located in Nordhavn. Take Metro Line M4 directly to Orientkaj Station or Nordhavn Station. Open daily free of charge from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Torvehallerne Food Hall
The Experience
Torvehallerne KB3 is Copenhagen’s premier twin-glass food market, housing over 80 vibrant stalls offering local delicacies, fresh flowers, and international bites. It is the ideal food stop for families because everyone can choose their favorite meal: parents can savor traditional open-faced smørrebrød sandwiches from Hallernes Smørrebrød, while kids feast on stone-baked pizza, fresh pastries from Laura's Bakery, or organic artisanal ice cream.
Why it’s worth your time
I consider Torvehallerne an essential dining destination that solves every family food dispute through high-quality, diverse culinary options under one roof.
Make the most of it
My favorite tip is to order your food to-go and sit at the central outdoor picnic tables when weather permits.
When to go
Around 11:30 AM to beat the peak office lunch rush.
Before you visit
Cashless payment by card or mobile is standard across all food stalls.
Plan your visit
Located right next to Nørreport Station (Metro/S-train). Entry is free. Stalls open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (closing at 6:00 PM on weekends).
Book your visit:
Find & Compare Flights
Check the best route options and ticket prices to kickstart your trip planning.
Where to stay in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen offers outstanding accommodation suited to every family travel style—from Scandinavian design boutique hotels near Tivoli to spacious apartment stays in quiet residential neighborhoods. Choosing the right area makes a big difference: stay near Inner City (Indre By) or Vesterbro for instant walkability to Tivoli and top sights, or in peaceful Frederiksberg or Østerbro for leafy parks and family-friendly cafes. Here are my personal recommendations:
Unique & Instagram-Worthy Stays:
Villa Copenhagen: Housed in the historic 1912 Central Post Office building near Tivoli Gardens, this luxury eco-conscious hotel pairs grand historic architecture with modern Nordic design. Its sustainable rooftop swimming pool, warm family suites, and prime location steps from the central station make it a memorable base. Check availability
Nimb Hotel: An extraordinary moorish-style boutique hotel located right inside Tivoli Gardens. Featuring fairy-tale architecture, spacious luxury suites with fireplaces, and direct private access to the amusement park grounds, it offers an unforgettable experience for families looking for pure magic. Check availability
25hours Hotel Indre By: A colorful, vibrant boutique stay set in a former university building in Central Copenhagen. With quirky Scandinavian interiors, playful lounge spaces, vinyl listening rooms, and free bike rentals, it is ideal for creative families and teens. Check availability
Classic Copenhagen Stays:
Scandic Palace Hotel: A distinguished classic hotel situated directly on Town Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen). Known for its elegant Art Nouveau architecture, generous family rooms, and exceptional buffet breakfast, it puts you within a 5-minute walk of Tivoli and the Strøget shopping street. Check availability
Tivoli Hotel: A modern, family-focused hotel designed in collaboration with Tivoli Gardens. Boasting indoor swimming pools, playrooms, outdoor playground areas, and themed family rooms, it is tailor-made for parents travelling with children. Check availability
Budget-Friendly Favorites:
Next House Copenhagen: A ultra-modern, stylish luxury hostel located near Copenhagen Central Station. Offering clean private family rooms, rooftop gardens, indoor sports arenas, and a self-service kitchen, it provides unbeatable value for budget-conscious families. Check availability
Steel House Copenhagen: A sleek industrial-chic hostel offering affordable private family rooms. Featuring a private indoor splash pool, games room, communal kitchen, and bike rentals, it is a top favorite among families seeking budget comfort in the heart of Vesterbro. Check availability
EDITORIAL NOTES
We visit or research every place on this list ourselves and no business pays to appear here. Some accommodation links are affiliate links: if you book through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. Prices shown are indicative and change with your dates.
