Original Tips for Copenhagen: 10 Hidden Gems off the Beaten Track

Have you been to Copenhagen and already ticked off the classics, such as Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid and Tivoli, from your list? Then this blog is for you. The Danish capital has much more to offer than just the well-known highlights. In this guide, we share 10 original tips for Copenhagen: surprising spots off the beaten track that reveal a different side of the city. Perfect for those who want to soak up the local atmosphere and experience the city in an alternative way.

1. Explore the Creative Free Town of Christiania

Christiania is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary places in Copenhagen. This self-proclaimed free town was founded in 1971, when a group of hippies and anarchists took over an abandoned military site in the Christianshavn district. Since then, Christiania has grown into an alternative community where creativity, freedom and self-governance are central. You stroll past colourful murals, self-built houses, alternative cafés and creative shops. Christiania is certainly not a typical attraction, but a unique place that invites you to expand your horizons.

Good to know: Christiania has been tolerated by the government as a social experiment for many years and remains a controversial place to this day. Since the dismantling of Pusher Street (the infamous street where drugs were openly sold) in April 2024, it is now quieter and safer. The atmosphere is relaxed, but be discreet: respect local rules and residents' privacy. Keep in mind that Christiania is not a tourist attraction, but a residential area where people want to live in peace and freedom.

2. Escape the Crowds at Biblioteks Have

The garden of the Royal Library (Biblioteks Have) is a hidden gem in the heart of Copenhagen, tucked between the library and Christiansborg Castle. In the middle of the garden lies a small pond, surrounded by colourful chairs beneath the trees. It’s the ideal spot for reading a book in the shade or simply enjoying the tranquillity. There is also a statue of Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. Looking for peace and quiet during your city break? Then Biblioteks Have is one of the best tips for Copenhagen.

3. Stroll through the Photogenic Streets of Østerbro

Østerbro is a quiet residential area filled with wide avenues, stately buildings, beautiful parks, trendy cafés and stylish boutiques. You will encounter considerably fewer tourists here than in the city centre, which gives the district a more local and relaxed atmosphere. Stroll through Brumleby, a charming area with yellow terraced houses and one of the first social housing estates in Copenhagen. Healthy yet affordable housing for workers was built here after the cholera outbreak in the 19th century. Some two hundred social housing units are still in use today. Learn more about the history of this unique neighbourhood in the accompanying mini-museum.

Just a stone's throw away from Brumleby is Olufsvej, the city's most photogenic street. Each house is painted in a different, cheerful colour. The many plants and picnic tables create a charming, village-like atmosphere

Tip: Fancy something sweet for the road? At Juno The Bakery you can buy delicious cinnamon rolls and croissants. This organic bakery is the brainchild of Emil Glaser, a former chef at the world-famous Michelin-starred restaurant Noma. On sunny days, the small terrace in front of the shop is perfect for relaxing.

4. Discover Street Art in Nørrebro

Nørrebro is Copenhagen's most diverse and artistic district. Colourful murals pop up everywhere. The street art reflects the mix of cultures that makes the area so unique. An excellent place to get to know multicultural and creative Nørrebro is Superkilen, an elongated urban park designed as a tribute to the many nationalities in the district. For example, you will find a fountain from Morocco, swings from Iraq and boxing rings from Thailand. Residents gather there to skate, play chess, have picnics, or barbecue.

5. Experience the Silence of Assistens Kirkegård

Het bruisende Nørrebro laat zich van een heel andere kant zien in Assistens Kirkegård, een historische begraafplaats waar bekende Denen als sprookjesschrijver Hans Christian Andersen en filosoof Søren Kierkegaard hun laatste rustplaats vonden. Assistens Kirkegård is veel meer dan een kerkhof, het is ook gewoon een serene plek waar locals graag wandelen, lezen of picknicken onder de bomen. Vlak bij de begraafplaats ligt de gezellige koffiebar Kafoffers delicious coffee and vegan pastries.

6. Splash in Islands Brygge's Harbour Pool

One of the best summer tips for Copenhagen is undoubtedly the Islands Brygge harbour pool. This popular spot attracts young and old, especially on hot days. There are several pools, including a children’s pool and a diving pool with one-, three-, and five-metre-high springboards. You can swim laps in the fresh canal water or just relax on the wooden jetties with stunning views of the city skyline.

Good to know: Water quality is monitored daily. During the summer season (June 1–August 31), lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

7. Sample Waterfront Street Food at Reffen

Take the harbour bus to Refshaleøen, a former industrial zone that has developed into one of Copenhagen's trendiest neighbourhoods. It was once home to one of the largest shipyards in the world. Today, the island is buzzing with creativity and alternative vibes. Reffen, Northern Europe's largest street food market, is the main draw. You will taste dishes from all corners of the world: from empanadas and ramen to Danish hot dogs and artisanal pizzas. There are also regular events and you can kayak, bungee jump, skate or catch a concert.

Practical tip: Refshaleøen is easily accessible by yellow harbour bus (Havnebus). The harbour bus sails past nine stops, including Refshaleøen, and treats you to a nice view of the city from the water. You can also take bus line 2A, which has a stop within walking distance of Reffen.

8. Explore Copenhagen's Meatpacking District

In Kødbyen, Copenhagen's Meatpacking District, former meat processing plants have been transformed into art galleries, trendy restaurants, cocktail bars and clubs. A good example is H15, a cultural and culinary hotspot with an industrial feel. In an old warehouse, you can enjoy delicious antipasti and thin-crust pizzas. It also hosts art exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and theatre performances. Other great places are coffee bar Prolog, for excellent specialty coffee, and Warpigs, for Texan barbecue and locally brewed beer.

Tip: The Meatpacking District is part of Vesterbro, a lively and creative district with an edgy vibe. Once Copenhagen's red light district, Vesterbro has undergone an impressive transformation in recent years. Today, you will find vintage shops, art galleries and atmospheric coffee bars. Perfect for those who like to explore Copenhagen off the beaten track.

9. Enjoy a Beer in Carlsberg Byen

Carlsberg Byen is een nieuwe stadswijk die nog volop in ontwikkeling is. Vroeger was hier de iconische Carlsberg-brouwerij gevestigd. Nu ontdek je er een mix van historische brouwerijgebouwen en moderne architectuur. In Home of Carlsberg you can learn all about the history of the world-famous beer brand and and even sample a freshly poured beer. The imposing elephant gate, supported by four large stone elephants, used to be the entrance to the old brewery.

10. Stroll along the Ramparts of Kastellet

The star-shaped Kastellet is one of the best-preserved fortifications in northern Europe. The citadel was constructed in the 17th century to house the army. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the green ramparts, past moats, historic cannons, and a charming windmill. People working for the army still live in the red-painted cottages. Despite its proximity to tourist attractions such as the Little Mermaid, green Kastellet feels surprisingly quiet.

More Tips for Copenhagen

Looking for even more inspiration for your city trip? In our blog What to do in Copenhagen you discover the city's most popular sights, from Nyhavn to Tivoli.

Practical Tips for Copenhagen

Best travel time: Copenhagen bustles all year round, but spring and summer are ideal for exploring neighbourhoods and parks.
Bike hire: Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe, with several rental companies and some hotels offering bikes. A guided bike tour is a fun way to see the city from a local perspective.
Public transport: All the places in this blog are easily accessible by metro, bus, or on foot. Buy your tickets at the ticket machines in the stations or via the handy DOT Tickets app.
Overnight: Looking for an original place to stay? 25hours Hotel Indre By is a centrally located design hotel, making it the ideal base for exploring Copenhagen. Electric bikes are also available for rent.

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