Copenhagen is a city that blends history, nature, and modern innovation, making it one of the best places in Europe for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a visitor, there are plenty of exciting outdoor things to do in Copenhagen that allow you to explore the city’s beauty while staying active.
From biking along scenic canals to kayaking in the harbor, Copenhagen offers fun and unique outdoor experiences for all ages. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best outdoor activities in Copenhagen and how to make the most of your time in the Danish capital.
Explore more outdoor activities in Copenhagen here.
🚴 1. Explore Copenhagen by Bike
Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with over 390 km of dedicated cycling lanes. Locals use bicycles for everything, and the best way to experience the city like a true Copenhagener is on two wheels.
Where to Bike in Copenhagen
✔ The Lakes (Søerne) – A scenic ride along Copenhagen’s iconic lakes.
✔ The Green Path (Den Grønne Sti) – A peaceful bike route through parks and neighborhoods.
✔ Superkilen Park – A colorful, artistic park in the Nørrebro district.
💡 Tip: Rent a bike from Donkey Republic or Bycyklen (Copenhagen’s electric city bikes).
⛵ 2. Kayak Through Copenhagen’s Canals
Want to see the city from a unique perspective? Kayaking in Copenhagen is a fantastic way to explore the canals and harbor.
Best Kayaking Spots
✔ Nyhavn & Christianshavn – Paddle through Copenhagen’s most famous canals.
✔ Refshaleøen – A trendy district with waterfront views.
✔ Islands Brygge – A great spot for a relaxed kayaking experience.
💡 Tip: Try GoBoat for a self-sailing electric boat experience or Kayak Republic for guided tours.
🌊 3. Swim at Copenhagen’s Harbor Baths
Unlike many big cities, Copenhagen’s harbor is clean enough for swimming! Locals love to cool off in the harbor baths, which are open during the summer and even for winter swimming.
Best Harbor Baths in Copenhagen
🏊 Islands Brygge Harbor Bath – The most famous swimming spot with diving towers.
🏊 Kalvebod Bølge – A modern floating bath with wooden sunbathing areas.
🏊 La Banchina – A small, cozy pier with a sauna and natural swimming area.
💡 Tip: Try winter bathing (if you’re brave!) and warm up in a sauna afterward.
🌳 4. Relax in Copenhagen’s Beautiful Parks
If you’re looking for peaceful outdoor things to do in Copenhagen, spending time in the city’s green spaces is a great option.
Best Parks in Copenhagen
🌿 Kongens Have (King’s Garden) – Home to Rosenborg Castle and beautiful flower beds.
🌿 Fælledparken – The largest park in the city, perfect for picnics and sports.
🌿 Amager Fælled – A nature reserve where you can see wildlife and enjoy hiking.
💡 Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the Danish tradition of “hygge” in nature.
🎭 5. Watch an Open-Air Performance
During the summer, Copenhagen offers many free outdoor concerts and performances in parks and public spaces.
🎶 Tivoli Gardens Summer Concerts – Enjoy live music every Friday night at Tivoli Gardens.
🎭 Opera in the Park (Operaparken) – A unique open-air opera experience in August.
🎸 CopenHill Rooftop Events – Watch DJs and concerts on top of a ski slope!
💡 Tip: Bring a blanket and some snacks for a cozy outdoor concert experience.
🏄 6. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in the Harbor
If you’re into water sports, stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to explore Copenhagen’s calm canals.
📍 Best places for paddleboarding:
✔ Copenhagen Cable Park (CCP) – A great spot for SUP and wakeboarding.
✔ Kayak Bar – Rent a paddleboard and explore Nyhavn and the surrounding area.
💡 Tip: Many paddleboarding centers offer beginner lessons if you’re trying it for the first time.
🏰 7. Visit Outdoor Castles & Historic Sites
Copenhagen is home to stunning castles and palaces, many with beautiful gardens and open courtyards.
🏰 Rosenborg Castle – Located in King’s Garden, famous for its Danish crown jewels.
🏰 Christiansborg Palace – The seat of the Danish Parliament, offering rooftop views of the city.
🏰 Amalienborg Palace – Watch the changing of the guard in the palace square.
💡 Tip: Visit Rosenborg Castle in the spring when the gardens are in full bloom.
🚀 8. Visit CopenHill – A Ski Slope on a Power Plant
Yes, you read that right! CopenHill is one of the most unique outdoor attractions in Copenhagen—a ski slope built on top of a green-energy power plant.
🏂 What Can You Do at CopenHill?
✔ Ski or snowboard on an artificial slope.
✔ Hike up to the rooftop for stunning city views.
✔ Try the world’s tallest climbing wall (85m high!).
💡 Tip: Even if you don’t ski, the rooftop café is a great spot to relax.
🚤 9. Take a Hidden Gems Boat Tour
Instead of the traditional canal tour, try a hidden gems boat tour to explore less touristy areas of the city.
🚤 Best Boat Tours in Copenhagen:
✔ Hey Captain – A small-group, intimate boat tour with a friendly local guide.
✔ Hidden Gems Tour – Explore off-the-beaten-path waterways in a silent electric boat.
💡 Tip: Book a sunset boat tour for a romantic and unforgettable experience.