Planning a trip to Copenhagen and worried about your budget? Don’t fret! This city has a reputation for being pricey. However, you can still enjoy its incredible culture and beauty without overspending. That’s right—some of the best experiences in Copenhagen are absolutely free.
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Getting the Most out of a Visit to Copenhagen
To help you get started, I’ve put together a list of fantastic free things to do in Copenhagen, Denmark. Get ready to explore the city like a local. Fill your itinerary with a few of these unforgettable, no-cost activities.
1. Stroll through the King’s Garden
Nestled right in the heart of Copenhagen, the King’s Garden (Kongens Have) is a green oasis perfect for a leisurely afternoon. This historic park surrounds the stunning Rosenborg Castle. The park is free to enter. It’s a favourite spot for both tourists and locals. Now, of course, you will need to pay to enter the castle itself. But the gardens are free, which is one reason I have it on my list of free things to do in Copenhagen. You’ll find meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and beautiful tree-lined avenues. Take the time to read all of the placards. This will help you fully understand the history of each display. You might even recognize this space from a scene in the popular series The Bear.
On a sunny day, it’s the perfect place to grab a snack. Find a patch of grass and have a picnic while people-watching. You can also spot the statue of Hans Christian Andersen, looking pensively toward the Tivoli Gardens.
2. See the Little Mermaid Statue
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without saying hello to the city’s most famous resident: the Little Mermaid. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairytale, this small bronze statue sits on a rock by the water at the Langelinie promenade. Now, a quick heads-up: she’s smaller than you might expect! The walk along the harbour to reach her is lovely, offering great views of the water and the city. There are other picturesque statues and sights to see in this area of the city, so make time to visit this free spot. It’s a true Copenhagen icon and an essential photo op, even if you have to wait your turn with the other visitors.
3. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace
For a taste of royal tradition, head to Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the Danish Royal Family. While you have to pay to enter the museum, the courtyard and the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony are free to watch. The Royal Guards march from their barracks to the palace in a parade-like fashion, complete with music and military precision. The ceremony takes place at noon sharp, so be sure to get there a little early (maybe half an hour) to snag a good spot. Watch this fascinating demo take place and snag some great photos, but wear good walking shoes. The waiting can be a lot for people with sore joints or for young children. Bring snacks and a stroller or small blanket so they can be comfortable.
4. Marvel at Frederick’s Church (The Marble Church)
Just a stone’s throw from Amalienborg Palace, you’ll find the majestic Frederick’s Church, known locally as Marmorkirken (The Marble Church). Its enormous dome is one of the most striking sights in Copenhagen. The church’s grandeur is inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and its stunning interior, with high ceilings and beautiful architectural details, is absolutely breathtaking.
You can step inside and admire the intricate design and serene atmosphere free of charge. It’s a peaceful escape from the city hustle and a perfect way to appreciate some of Denmark’s most impressive religious architecture.
5. Visit Hans Christian Andersen’s Grave
For literary fans, a visit to Assistens Cemetery in the vibrant Nørrebro neighborhood is a must. It’s more than just a cemetery. It’s a beautiful, park-like space. Locals go there for a walk, a bike ride, or even a picnic. Nørrebro feels off the beaten track just a little, beyond the well known shopping district and Nyhavn. For that reason alone it felt like a side quest worth embracing. Save this for one of your last days in the city.
The Resting Place of Several Danes
This lush green space is the final resting place of several famous Danes. However, none are more celebrated than Hans Christian Andersen. Finding his grave felt meaningful. It was a quiet, reflective way to pay tribute to the man who gave the world so many cherished fairytales. What a special way to connect with Copenhagen’s cultural legacy.
The cemeteries in Europe always seem more experiential. Historically, they are simply more interesting than many of ours back home in Canada. I went along mostly because I knew my artsy thanatology student daughter would be thrilled, but I was a bit surprised that I found this cemetery so very meaningful and picturesque. Don’t miss it, unless you are travelling with really small children who are not at all interested in this kind of adventure.
Travel Frugal Anywhere
Copenhagen is one of the most expensive cities we have ever visited, but we didn’t break the bank while there because we did our research and visited some spaces where the only real investment was sweat equity and time. Hopefully this helps if you are also heading to Copenhagen and want to save a few dollars without sacrificing sightseeing.
