21 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen with Kids (2026 Family Guide)

If you’re planning a family trip to Denmark’s capital, you’re in for a treat. Copenhagen consistently ranks among the world’s most family-friendly cities, with safe streets, incredible playgrounds, fascinating museums, and plenty of hands-on experiences for curious kids.

We recently spent three weeks exploring Copenhagen with our 9-year-old son, and we were genuinely impressed by how much there is to do. Whether your children love Vikings, science, fairy tales, trains, or simply running around beautiful parks, Copenhagen has something for every age.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen with kids, including famous attractions and a few hidden gems that many visitors miss.

Table of Contents

• Tips for a Family Holiday in Copenhagen With Kids
• Planning a trip to Copenhagen soon?
• 1. Tivoli Gardens
• 2. Copenhagen Canal Tour
• 3. Experimentarium
• 4. The Children’s Museum at the National Museum of Denmark
• 5. ENIGMA Museum of Communication
• 6. The Traffic Playground (Trafiklegepladsen)
• 7. Nyhavn
• 8. Round Tower (Rundetårn)
• 9. Viking Ship Museum (Roskilde)
• 10. Copenhagen Zoo
• 11. The Little Mermaid
• 12. Kastellet Fortress
• 13. Botanical Garden, Palm House & Butterfly House
• 14. Rosenborg Castle
• 15. Amalienborg Palace
• 16. Fælledparken – Copenhagen’s Ultimate Family Park
• 17. Freetown Christiania (with older kids)
• 18. Copenhagen’s Amazing Playgrounds
• 19. Bicycle Around the City
• 20. Visit the Harbour Baths
• 21. Blue Planet Aquarium (Den Blå Planet)
• Bonus: MACA Museum – A Hidden Gem for Creative Kids
• Where to Eat in Copenhagen with Kids
• Frequently Asked Questions About Copenhagen with Kids
• Is Copenhagen Worth Visiting with Kids?
• Final Thoughts

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Tips for a Family Holiday in Copenhagen With Kids

Is the Copenhagen Card worth it?

You’ll see the Copenhagen Card recommended everywhere, but don’t automatically assume it’s a money-saver. We actually crunched the numbers for the attractions in this guide, and our conclusion is that if you’re only visiting one or two paid attractions in a day, you’re generally better off paying individually.

The Copenhagen Card – Discover includes entry to 80+ attractions as well as unlimited public transport throughout the Capital Region, including transport to and from the airport. Current prices start at 589 DKK for 24 hours, 859 DKK for 48 hours and 1,039 DKK for 72 hours for adults. Children aged 3–11 have much cheaper cards, from 100 DKK for 24 hours.

Our rule of thumb is that if you’re planning to visit three or more paid attractions in a day, it’s definitely worth looking at the Copenhagen Card. Once you factor in the public transport, particularly if you’re travelling out to places such as the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, the savings can add up quickly. The official card also has a savings calculator, which is worth using before you buy.

Other tips for Copenhagen with kids

• 🚲 Rent bikes: Copenhagen is incredibly bike-friendly, and cycling can be a fun way to get around when the weather is good. Just make sure everyone is comfortable cycling in city traffic.
• 🧥 Bring layers: Copenhagen weather can change quickly, even in summer. A sunny morning can turn cool and windy later in the day, particularly around the harbour.
• 🎨 Look for children’s areas: Many of Copenhagen’s museums are surprisingly interactive and have dedicated areas or activities for children, making them much more enjoyable for families than traditional museums.
• 🚇 Use public transport: The metro, buses and trains are clean, reliable and easy to use with children. Most stations and vehicles are also stroller-friendly.
• 🛝 Don’t underestimate the playgrounds: Copenhagen has some of the best playgrounds we’ve come across in our travels. Many are beautifully designed, imaginative and completely free, so don’t feel that every day needs to be packed with expensive attractions.
• 🍦 Leave some unplanned time: Copenhagen is an easy city to explore on foot, and some of our favourite moments can come from simply wandering, stopping for an ice cream or letting the kids play in a park rather than rushing from attraction to attraction.

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1. Tivoli Gardens

🕒 Opening Hours: Vary by season; during the 2026 summer season, generally 11 AM–11 PM, with later closing on Fridays and Saturdays
💰 Entry Fees: From 180 DKK adults | 90 DKK children (3–7) | Free children under 3. Rides are extra.

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without spending a day at Tivoli Gardens. We spent about 6 hours at Tivoli, and our 9 year old still did not get bored!

Tivoli is much more than an amusement park: it’s a beautiful historic garden, packed with rides, restaurants, gardens, live entertainment and plenty of atmosphere. Even if your children aren’t big on theme parks, it’s worth visiting simply to wander around and enjoy the setting.

There are more than 29 rides, ranging from gentle attractions for little ones, such as the Classic Carousel and Flying Trunk, to bigger thrills including The Demon roller coaster and the 63-metre Golden Tower. You can buy individual rides or a Ride Pass for unlimited rides, and height restrictions vary by attraction.

There’s also plenty to do between rides. Kids can visit Rasmus Klump’s World, play in the playgrounds, watch performances at the Pantomime Theatre or simply explore the beautifully landscaped gardens. Tivoli also hosts more than 100 events during the summer, including concerts, theatre and fireworks.

What facilities are there at Tivoli?

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants inside. You’ll find everything from ice cream, churros and pancakes to burgers, pizza, sushi and Danish food, with both casual food stalls and proper restaurants. Tivoli Food Hall, which has direct access from the Gardens, is particularly convenient for families.

And despite what you may have heard, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into Tivoli. There are designated areas, lawns and benches where you can eat your own picnic, which can save quite a bit of money on a family visit.

There are also baby-changing facilities, accessible toilets, lockers and first-aid facilities, making it easy to spend several hours here without needing to leave.

I’d allow at least 4–5 hours, or most of a day if your children want to go on lots of rides.

Best for: Ages 3+

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2. Copenhagen Canal Tour

🕒 Opening Hours: Multiple departures daily; first departures generally 9:30–10 AM, with final departures varying by season
💰 Entry Fees: From 199 DKK adults | 100 DKK children (6–15) | Free children 0–5

Seeing Copenhagen from the water is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city, and it’s particularly good with kids. After all the walking and sightseeing, sitting back on a boat while the city passes by is a welcome break.

The tour is relaxed rather than overly formal, with a guide providing information about the buildings and landmarks along the way. Kids tend to enjoy the novelty of travelling by boat, while parents get a chance to see quite a lot of Copenhagen without having to walk between each sight.

Depending on the route, you’ll cruise past some of the city’s biggest landmarks, including:

• Nyhavn and its colourful waterfront
• The canals of Christianshavn
• The striking Opera House
• Amalienborg Palace
• The Little Mermaid

It’s also a great way to get some different photos of Copenhagen, especially on a sunny day when the reflections on the canals make the city look even more beautiful.

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3. Experimentarium

🕒 Opening Hours: Every day, 9:30 AM–5 PM
💰 Entry Fees: 255 DKK adults | 159 DKK children (2–11) | Free children under 2

If your kids are anything like our son and love STEM, experiments and figuring out how things work, don’t miss Experimentarium. This enormous science centre is completely hands-on, with three indoor floors and a rooftop packed with interactive exhibits.

Our son had an absolute blast here because almost everything encourages you to touch, build, test and experiment rather than simply read information. There are also plenty of opportunities to climb, move and burn off energy, so this doesn’t feel like a traditional museum at all. The centre has a restaurant as well as a picnic area if you’d rather bring your own lunch, and there are free lockers for bags.

I’d allow at least 3–4 hours, although younger children could easily spend longer. It’s educational without ever feeling like school. This is science disguised as play, which is exactly why it works so well for kids.

Best for: Ages 4–15

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4. The Children’s Museum at the National Museum of Denmark

🕒 Opening Hours: Every day, 10 AM–5 PM
💰 Entry Fees: 150 DKK adults | Free children under 18. Children’s Museum admission is included with the National Museum ticket

Many museums tell children not to touch anything. This one encourages exactly the opposite. The museum takes children on a journey through Danish history, with hands-on exhibits that let them experience what life was like in different periods. Kids can:

• Dress up as Vikings and medieval merchants
• Climb aboard historical ships
• Explore old classrooms
• Play with historical toys
• Experience everyday Danish life through the centuries

The rest of the National Museum is also excellent, with fascinating Viking artefacts and prehistoric discoveries that adults will enjoy too.

Perfect for rainy days.

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5. ENIGMA Museum of Communication

🕒 Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM
💰 Entry Fees: 140 DKK adults | 85 DKK ages 11–17 | 55 DKK children 3–10 | Free under 3

ENIGMA was one of our son’s favourite museums in Copenhagen, largely because, unlike many museums, he got to spend part of the visit playing video games! But there’s much more to it than the arcade.

The museum explores the history of communication, from old-fashioned letters and telephones to computers, the internet and modern technology. Kids can play classic arcade games from the 1980s and 1990s, experiment with technology and try their hand at various interactive challenges.

Our favourite part was the robotics challenges, which were exceptionally well organised by the museum. Rather than simply watching demonstrations, children actually get to work with the circuits and solve challenges themselves, making it both fun and genuinely educational.

It’s a particularly good choice for kids who enjoy gaming, technology, robotics, coding or Minecraft, and definitely one of Copenhagen’s more underrated family attractions..

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6. The Traffic Playground (Trafiklegepladsen)

🕒 Opening Hours: Summer season: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM; selected weekends 10 AM–5 PM. Winter: Monday–Thursday 9 AM–4:30 PM, Friday 9 AM–4 PM
💰 Entry Fees: Free. Children’s bikes and helmets are also free for children aged 2–8 (up to 130 cm)

This hidden gem quickly became one of our favourite places.

The Traffic Playground is a miniature town where children ride bicycles, scooters and pedal cars while learning real road rules.

It includes:

• Mini traffic lights
• Roundabouts
• Crosswalks
• Roads
• Street signs

It’s completely free and a wonderful way to let kids burn off energy while learning road safety. Bring a scooter or bicycle if you have one, although bikes can often be borrowed.

Best for: Ages 3–12

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7. Nyhavn

No visit to Copenhagen feels complete without seeing Nyhavn, the city’s iconic waterfront. The row of brightly coloured 17th- and 18th-century townhouses, historic wooden ships and canal lined with cafés is one of Copenhagen’s most recognisable sights.

Nyhavn was originally built in the 1670s as a gateway from the sea into the heart of the city, and it was once a busy commercial port filled with sailors, merchants and taverns. Interestingly, Hans Christian Andersen lived in several of the colourful houses here, including No. 67.

For families, it’s an easy place to enjoy without a strict itinerary:

• Watch the boats and historic sailing ships
• Stop for an ice cream
• Sit at one of the outdoor cafés
• Take a canal cruise from the harbour
• Wander along the colourful waterfront and take photos

Yes, it’s touristy, but Nyhavn is one of those places that’s popular for a reason, and it’s especially atmospheric on a sunny day.

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8. Round Tower (Rundetårn)

🕒 Opening Hours: April–September, daily 10 AM–8 PM; October–March, Monday–Tuesday 10 AM–9 PM, Wednesday–Sunday 10 AM–6 PM
💰 Entry Fees: 60 DKK adults | 40 DKK students | Free children under 18

The Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is one of Copenhagen’s most unusual historic landmarks. Built in 1642 during the reign of King Christian IV, it was designed as an astronomical observatory and is Europe’s oldest functioning observatory.

Rather than climbing a traditional staircase, you walk up a wide spiral ramp that winds around the inside of the tower, making the climb surprisingly easy for children. At the top, a short flight of steps leads to the viewing platform, where you’ll get fantastic 360-degree views over Copenhagen’s rooftops.

Inside, you can also see the historic observatory, exhibitions and the beautiful central library hall, which was once the university library. It’s a relatively quick visit, but the combination of history, unusual architecture and the views makes it well worth adding to a family itinerary.

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9. Viking Ship Museum (Roskilde)

🕒 Opening Hours: May 1–October 18, 10 AM–5 PM; October 19–April 30, 10 AM–4 PM
💰 Entry Fees: Summer: 165 DKK adults | Free children under 18. Winter: 130 DKK adults | Free children under 18

Located about 30 minutes from Copenhagen, this is one of Denmark’s best day trips.

The Viking Ship museum displays genuine Viking ships recovered from Roskilde Fjord over 1,000 years after they were sunk. We got to sail one of the reconstructed viking long ships, row the oars ourselves, open and close the sail, and feel like real Vikings for the day. But our son’s favourite activity was the woodwork workshop where he built his own model of a viking boat.

If you visit the museum, you can:

• Board reconstructed Viking ships
• Watch traditional boat building
• Try Viking crafts
• Dress like Vikings
• Sail on Viking-style boats during summer

If your kids are fascinated by Vikings, this is an absolute must.

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10. Copenhagen Zoo

🕒 Opening Hours: Open 365 days a year; hours vary by season, so check the calendar before visiting
💰 Entry Fees: 260 DKK adults | 160 DKK children (3–14) | Free children under 3

If your kids love animals, Copenhagen Zoo is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. It’s one of the oldest zoos in Europe, but it has continued to modernise over the years, and we found it to be a very enjoyable family day out.

The zoo is fairly large without being overwhelming, and the grounds are pleasant to walk around, with plenty of trees, landscaped areas, benches and places to stop and rest. There’s also a good mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits, which makes it a useful option if the Copenhagen weather decides not to cooperate.

The zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals, including giant pandas, elephants, giraffes, lions, polar bears, tigers, hippos and chimpanzees. Although, as with any zoo, some animals may be hiding when you visit.

Are the animal enclosures good?

This is probably the question I would have before visiting any zoo, and overall, we thought Copenhagen Zoo’s enclosures were quite good.

They’re not all enormous (this is still a city zoo rather than a safari park), but many of the newer habitats are thoughtfully designed, with vegetation, climbing structures, water, different levels and enrichment designed around the animals’ natural behaviours.

The zoo itself says its modern enclosures are designed around the specific behavioural needs of each species, with enrichment and training used to encourage natural behaviours.

Plenty for kids besides the animals

This is one of the things that makes Copenhagen Zoo work particularly well for families. You don’t have to spend the entire day walking from enclosure to enclosure.

There are several playgrounds throughout the zoo, including a large playground in the Kids’ Zoo, an obstacle-course-style playground near the tigers, a leopard slide for children aged six and over, and climbing areas near the snowy owls.

The zoo also offers activities and educational programmes, including animal talks, feeding sessions and the Zoo Mission, a free activity booklet that children can pick up at the entrance. During summer, many of the animal talks are held in English.

There’s also the Zoo Tower, Tropical House, Nocturnal House and various indoor exhibits, so there are plenty of things to explore even if you happen to visit on a cooler or rainy day.

What about food?

You certainly won’t go hungry here. There are several restaurants, cafés and food stands around the zoo, ranging from proper sit-down meals to the usual family-friendly burgers, fries, hot dogs, sandwiches, ice cream and churros.

For something a little more special, Bistro Ailu serves French-Asian food with views directly towards the giant panda area, a pretty fun setting for lunch. There’s also Restaurant Kjærbølling, which serves Danish favourites including smørrebrød, with children’s portions available.

If you’d rather save money, you can bring your own food. There are designated picnic areas around the zoo, including spots near the Kids’ Zoo, Hippo House and red pandas. There are also facilities for babies, including changing tables and a nursing room where you can warm milk

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11. The Little Mermaid

🕒 Opening Hours: Open 24/7
💰 Entry Fees: Free

Yes, she really is that small! Sitting on a rock at the edge of the harbour, Copenhagen’s most famous statue is much smaller than many visitors expect. But that doesn’t make her any less worth seeing.

The sculpture was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale and was unveiled in 1913. Kids who know the story often enjoy seeing the Little Mermaid in real life, and it’s a fun opportunity to tell them the tale before you visit.

It’s a quick stop rather than a major attraction, but the waterfront setting is lovely, and you can easily combine it with a walk through nearby Kastellet and the surrounding harbour area.

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12. Kastellet Fortress

🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, approximately 6 AM–10 PM
💰 Entry Fees: Free

Just a short walk from the Little Mermaid, Kastellet is one of Copenhagen’s most fascinating historic sites. Built in the 17th century by King Christian IV and later expanded by Frederik III, it was designed as part of Copenhagen’s defences. Today, it’s one of Europe’s best-preserved star fortresses.

The fortress is still an active military area, but much of Kastellet is open to the public. Kids can walk along the grassy ramparts, cross the old bridges and explore the peaceful paths surrounding the moat. Look out for the historic red buildings, old cannons and distinctive windmill, which dates back to 1847.

It’s a lovely place to slow down after visiting the Little Mermaid, and the grassy areas around the fortress make a great picnic spot.

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13. Botanical Garden, Palm House & Butterfly House

🕒 Opening Hours: Botanical Garden: March 1–October 24, 8:30 AM–6 PM; October 25–February 28, 8:30 AM–4 PM. Palm House: generally 10 AM–5 PM during the summer season
💰 Entry Fees: Botanical Garden Free | Palm House 70 DKK adults | 40 DKK children (3–17) | Free under 3

The Botanical Garden is one of Copenhagen’s most peaceful family attractions and a great place to take a break from the busy city. Best of all, the gardens themselves are free to enter, making them a fantastic budget-friendly stop.

For an even more memorable experience, buy a ticket to the historic Palm House, a stunning Victorian glasshouse filled with towering tropical plants, winding staircases and lush greenery. Your Palm House ticket also includes entry to the Butterfly House, which was one of our son’s favourite experiences in Copenhagen.

Inside the Butterfly House, colourful butterflies flutter freely around you, often landing on flowers, or even on visitors if you’re lucky! Kids can learn about the fascinating life cycle of a butterfly, from tiny eggs and hungry caterpillars to chrysalises and fully grown butterflies. There are also displays showing how butterflies feed, and it’s wonderful to watch them sipping nectar with their long proboscises.

It’s a calm, magical experience that children (and adults!) won’t soon forget.

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14. Rosenborg Castle

🕒 Opening Hours: Generally 10 AM–5 PM; hours vary seasonally
💰 Entry Fees: 140 DKK online | 150 DKK at the door adults | Free under 18

Children who like kings, castles and stories of royal intrigue will probably enjoy Rosenborg. The beautiful Renaissance castle was built by King Christian IV in the early 1600s, originally as a summer residence in his private garden. It later became a royal residence and today houses some of Denmark’s greatest treasures.

Inside, you can explore the lavish royal rooms, the Knight’s Hall, royal crowns and the Danish Crown Jewels, as well as weapons, portraits and other objects from the royal collection. There are also guided tours and occasional family activities, particularly during school holidays.

Outside, King’s Garden (Kongens Have) is just as much a reason to visit. The former royal garden was created in 1606 and eventually opened to the public, becoming one of Copenhagen’s favourite green spaces. It’s perfect for letting kids run around, have a picnic or simply relax after the castle. The garden also hosts concerts and cultural events, particularly during the warmer months.

Tip: Children under 18 enter the castle for free, but you’ll still need to reserve a time slot.

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15. Amalienborg Palace

🕒 Opening Hours: Generally 10 AM–4 PM; extended to 5 PM during summer holidays
💰 Entry Fees: 125 DKK online | 135 DKK at the door adults | Free under 18.

Amalienborg Palace is the official Copenhagen residence of the Danish royal family and one of the city’s most impressive squares. The four elegant Rococo palaces were built in the 1750s, originally as homes for aristocratic families. The royal family moved in after Christiansborg Palace burned down in 1794, and Amalienborg has been a royal residence ever since.

Today, the family still lives in parts of the complex, while Christian VIII’s Palace houses the Amalienborg Museum, where you can see royal rooms, historic objects and the beautiful Gala Hall, which is still used for official occasions.

For children, the highlight is usually the Changing of the Guard, which takes place in the palace square at 12:00 PM every day. Watching the guards in their bearskin hats march across the square makes the visit feel wonderfully royal. Arrive early if you want a good spot, as the square can get crowded.

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16. Fælledparken – Copenhagen’s Ultimate Family Park

If your kids need a break from museums and sightseeing, head to Fælledparken, Copenhagen’s largest park.

This enormous green space is packed with activities for children, including one of the city’s biggest playgrounds. Kids can climb, swing, zip, balance and explore for hours, while parents relax on the surrounding lawns.

Depending on the season, you may also find:

• Skate park
• Football pitches
• Basketball courts
• Picnic areas
• Wide open spaces perfect for running around
• Seasonal events and festivals

It’s the perfect place to slow down after a busy morning of sightseeing, and because it’s popular with local families, it offers a glimpse into everyday life in Copenhagen.

Best of all, it’s completely free.

Best for: Ages 2–12

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17. Freetown Christiania (with older kids)

🕒 Opening Hours: Open daily
💰 Entry Fees: Free

Christiania is one of the most unusual places you’ll visit in Copenhagen. What began in 1971, when a group of people occupied a former military barracks, developed into a self-governing alternative community known for its colourful homemade houses, street art, music and unconventional way of life.

It’s interesting to wander through the winding paths and see the quirky architecture, sculptures, workshops, cafés and gardens. The area also sits on Copenhagen’s old defensive ramparts, so there are surprisingly peaceful green spaces and walking paths around the lake.

With older children, we think it’s worth seeing simply because it’s so different from the rest of Copenhagen. You can also stop for food or a drink at one of the local cafés.

Christiania has a complicated history and was long associated with the open cannabis trade on Pusher Street. That changed significantly in 2024, when residents removed the street’s famous cobblestones in an effort to end the open drug market.

If visiting with children, we’d stick to daytime, stay on the main public paths and respect the local rules, including areas where photography isn’t permitted. Christiania is a residential community, not simply a tourist attraction.

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18. Copenhagen’s Amazing Playgrounds

One thing Copenhagen does exceptionally well is playgrounds.

Some of the best playgrounds are:

Tårnlegepladsen (The Tower Playground) – A Copenhagen-Themed Adventure

Tårnlegepladsen i Fælledparken

A fantastic playground inside Fælledparken, the Tower Playground is inspired by some of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks.

Kids can climb and play around structures based on:

• The Round Tower (Rundetårn)
• Copenhagen City Hall Tower
• The Marble Church
• Our Saviour’s Church
• The old Stock Exchange tower

It is not only fun but also a clever way for children to learn about the city’s architecture and history while playing.

Best for: Ages 3–10

Superkilen – A Colourful Urban Playground in Nørrebro

Superkilen

This is not a traditional playground, but it is one of Copenhagen’s most interesting outdoor spaces for families.

This colourful urban park celebrates cultures from around the world, with unusual objects, sculptures and play areas collected from different countries.

Kids can:

• Ride scooters and bikes
• Explore colourful spaces
• Play on open areas
• Discover unusual designs from around the world

It is a great stop if you are exploring the vibrant Nørrebro neighbourhood.

Best for: Ages 5+

Family tip: If you are visiting the Traffic Playground, combine it with the rest of Fælledparken. The park also has other children’s areas, including a water playground in summer, making it easy to spend half a day there.

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19. Bicycle Around the City

Copenhagen is one of the world’s greatest cycling cities.

Many rental shops offer:

• Child seats
• Cargo bikes
• Family bikes

Cycling is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the city.

Where to Rent Bikes in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities, and exploring on two wheels is one of the best ways to experience it. If you’re staying in the city centre, these rental shops are all excellent options.

Bike Copenhagen

Located just steps from Strøget and Nyhavn, Bike Copenhagen is an excellent choice for visitors. They rent city bikes, e-bikes and the iconic Danish Christiania cargo bikes, making them a great option for families travelling with young children. They also offer guided bike tours if you’d like to explore the city with a local.

Address: Nikolaj Plads 34, 1067 Copenhagen

City Bike Adventures

Just a few minutes’ walk from Nyhavn, City Bike Adventures is highly rated for its friendly service and well-maintained bikes. They offer city bikes, e-bikes and family-friendly rentals, making it an easy starting point for exploring Copenhagen’s attractions.

Address: Holbergsgade 12, 1057 Copenhagen

Family Bike

If you’re travelling with younger children, Family Bike specialises in cargo bikes and family bikes. Their traditional Danish cargo bikes allow one or two children to ride comfortably in the front while parents cycle through the city, a fun experience that’s very common among Copenhagen families.

Address: Adelgade 46, 1304 Copenhagen

Family Tip: If you’re not used to cycling in Copenhagen, spend a few minutes watching the locals before setting off. Stay in the bike lanes, keep to the right, use hand signals when turning, and avoid stopping suddenly in the middle of the cycle path. Once you get the hang of it, cycling is easily one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city.

20. Visit the Harbour Baths

🕒 Opening Hours: Vary by harbour bath; seasonal facilities generally operate from May
💰 Entry Fees: Free

One of the best things about Copenhagen in summer is that you can actually swim right in the city. Copenhagen’s harbour was once heavily polluted, but after decades of investment in the city’s sewage and water systems, the water has been clean enough for swimming since the early 2000s. The first modern harbour bath opened at Islands Brygge in 2002, transforming the former industrial waterfront into one of the city’s favourite summer hangouts.

The Islands Brygge Harbour Bath is particularly good for families, with five pools, including two children’s pools, the shallowest only 30 cm deep. Older kids can try the 1-, 3- and 5-metre diving platforms, while there’s plenty of grassy space nearby for picnics and relaxing.

Water quality is checked daily, and swimming is only permitted when conditions are safe. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, generally 10 AM–6 PM from June through August.

It’s a brilliant way to cool down after sightseeing, and one of those experiences that makes Copenhagen feel much more like a city locals actually live in.

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21. Blue Planet Aquarium (Den Blå Planet)

🕒 Opening Hours: Monday 10 AM–9 PM, Tuesday–Sunday 10 AM–5 PM; extended to 10 AM–9 PM daily during Danish school holidays. Open 365 days a year.
💰 Entry Fees: 249 DKK adults | 131 DKK children (3–11) | Free children under 3. Cheaper if booked online in advance: 219 DKK adults | 116 DKK children.

Den Blå Planet, or Blue Planet, is Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, home to more than 24,000 animals across 735 species in 7 million litres of water. The building sits right next to Copenhagen Airport in Kastrup, and it’s an easy half-day trip from the city centre.

The undisputed highlight is the Ocean Tank, where sand tiger sharks and rays glide overhead as you walk through the acrylic tunnel below. Kids can also hand-feed cownose rays at the touch pool, explore a warm, humid Rainforest exhibit complete with a resident sloth, and visit the sea otters. Blue Planet is one of only a few places in Europe to see them. The glowing jellyfish tanks are a good spot to slow down if anyone’s had enough excitement for one day.

Getting there: Take the M2 metro to Kastrup station (about 20–25 minutes from Kongens Nytorv, or 25–30 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station), then follow the signposted 10-minute walk to the aquarium. The route is flat and fully pram-accessible, with no stairs. Driving is possible but parking costs 25–30 DKK per hour and fills up quickly in summer, so the metro is the easier option with kids in tow.

If you’re visiting in summer, budget extra time for the outdoor water playground. Book your ray touch pool slot early in the day if you can, as queues can build up to 15–25 minutes by early afternoon.

Allow around 1.5–3 hours, depending on your children’s ages and how long they spend at the touch pool.

Best for: Ages 2+ (toddlers tend to have the strongest reactions to the Ocean Tunnel, though it’s genuinely enjoyable at any age)

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Bonus: MACA Museum – A Hidden Gem for Creative Kids

If your family enjoys modern art, don’t overlook the MACA Museum. While it isn’t specifically designed for children, we were surprised by how much our 9 year old son enjoyed it.

The museum features a constantly changing collection of contemporary and street art, with colourful murals, large-scale installations and thought-provoking exhibits that are often far more engaging for children than traditional art galleries.

Many of the pieces are bold, playful and visually striking, making them fun to explore together and great for family photos.

We found it sparked some fantastic conversations about creativity and different ways artists express ideas.

Best for: Older children (around 8+) and teenagers, especially those who enjoy drawing, photography or creative subjects.

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Where to Eat in Copenhagen with Kids

One of the best things about Copenhagen is that eating out with kids is surprisingly easy. Most cafés and restaurants are welcoming to families, and you’ll often find high chairs, children’s portions and plenty of outdoor seating. Whether your little ones are adventurous eaters or only interested in pizza and fries (we’ve all been there!), you’ll have no trouble finding something everyone will enjoy.

Reffen Street Food

If your family can never agree on what to eat, head straight to Reffen. This huge waterfront street food market is one of our favourite places to grab lunch or dinner. With dozens of food stalls serving everything from burgers and tacos to sushi, pizza, Danish specialities and irresistible desserts, everyone can choose exactly what they’re craving.

There are plenty of picnic tables, lots of open space for kids to stretch their legs, and beautiful views over the harbour while you eat.

Broens Street Food

Located just a short walk from Nyhavn, Broens Street Food offers a similar laid-back atmosphere on a slightly smaller scale. It’s a great stop after a morning of sightseeing, with a fantastic selection of international dishes, drinks and sweet treats.

Torvehallerne Food Market

Food lovers shouldn’t miss Torvehallerne, Copenhagen’s famous indoor market. It’s the perfect place to sample local produce or pick up lunch between attractions. You’ll find everything from freshly baked Danish pastries and artisan sandwiches to seafood, gourmet chocolates, coffee, smoothies and ice cream.

It’s also home to one of the city’s best places to try Denmark’s most famous lunch.

Try Traditional Danish Smørrebrød

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without trying smørrebrød, Denmark’s iconic open-faced sandwiches. They may look simple, but each one is beautifully put together and piled high with fresh ingredients. Popular toppings include roast beef, smoked salmon, egg and shrimp, potatoes, and, for the more adventurous, pickled herring.

Our absolute favourite place to try smørrebrød was Josephine. We loved the cosy atmosphere, friendly service and beautifully presented sandwiches. The roast beef and smoked salmon were outstanding, and if you’re trying smørrebrød for the first time, we honestly can’t think of a better place to start.

If you’re looking to sample more of Copenhagen’s famous smørrebrød, here are a few other excellent choices:

• Hallernes Smørrebrød – Located inside Torvehallerne Market, it’s perfect for a quick but delicious lunch while exploring the city.
• Selma – A modern, award-winning restaurant that gives traditional smørrebrød a creative twist using seasonal ingredients. Great if you’re looking for something a little more special.
• Restaurant Schønnemann – Serving smørrebrød since 1877, this Copenhagen institution is the place to experience classic Danish recipes in a traditional setting. It’s incredibly popular, so booking ahead is highly recommended.

Family Tip

If you’re introducing children to smørrebrød, start with familiar toppings like roast beef, smoked salmon or egg and shrimp before moving on to more traditional Danish favourites like pickled herring. Everyone wins, and nobody has to negotiate over lunch!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Copenhagen with Kids

How many days do you need in Copenhagen with kids?

Three to four days is enough to cover the highlights without rushing, but five or more gives you room to slow down, add a day trip to Roskilde or Blue Planet, and leave space for unplanned park time. We spent three weeks in Copenhagen and still didn’t run out of things to do.

Is Copenhagen expensive for families?

Copenhagen is one of the pricier cities in Europe, but it’s more manageable with kids than it looks. Many of the best family attractions are free, including Fælledparken, Kastellet, the Traffic Playground, the harbour baths and the Little Mermaid, and most museums let under-18s in free. Picnicking in parks, self-catering where you can, and using public transport instead of taxis all help keep costs down.

What’s the best time of year to visit Copenhagen with kids?

Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is the easiest season for families, with long daylight hours, warm enough weather for the harbour baths, and Tivoli’s full summer programme running. December has its own charm with Tivoli’s Christmas market, though be ready for cold, short days.

Is Copenhagen safe for kids?

Yes, Copenhagen is regularly ranked among the safest capitals in Europe, with low crime rates and calm, cycle-friendly traffic. It’s also completely normal to see Danish parents leave prams parked outside cafés while they eat inside, which says a lot about how relaxed the city feels with children.

Do you need a car in Copenhagen with kids?

No. Central Copenhagen is compact, flat and easy to get around on foot, by metro or by bike, and most families don’t need a car at all. A rental is only worth considering if you’re planning day trips beyond the city that public transport doesn’t reach easily.

Is Copenhagen stroller-friendly?

Very. Pavements are wide, metro stations have lifts, buses kneel at stops, and most attractions, including Den Blå Planet, are fully pram-accessible. The main thing to watch for is cobblestones in older areas like Nyhavn, which can make for a bumpier ride.

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Is Copenhagen Worth Visiting with Kids?

Absolutely, we spent three weeks in Copenhagen and found it so family friendly! Few European capitals combine history, education and outdoor fun as effortlessly as Copenhagen. Whether your children are fascinated by Vikings, love hands-on science, enjoy cycling or simply want to explore beautiful parks and playgrounds, there’s something here for every family.

For us, the standout experiences were the Experimentarium, the surprisingly brilliant ENIGMA Museum, the Traffic Playground, and the unforgettable atmosphere of Tivoli Gardens. Combined with colourful streets like Nyhavn, fascinating Viking history, and one of the safest urban environments in Europe, Copenhagen is an ideal destination for a family city break.

If you’re travelling through Scandinavia with children, Copenhagen deserves a spot near the top of your itinerary.

Final Thoughts

Copenhagen may be one of Europe’s smaller capitals, but it’s packed with unforgettable experiences for families. What impressed us most was how easy the city is to explore with kids. Safe cycle paths, excellent public transport, fantastic playgrounds and interactive museums make Copenhagen one of the best family city breaks in Europe.

If you’re planning a Scandinavian adventure, we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend adding Copenhagen to your itinerary, it quickly became one of our favourite cities to explore as a family. You can read more about who we are and how we travel, browse our other Europe travel guides, or check out our full worldschooling resources guide if you are planning a longer trip.