The Round Tower
Climb Denmark's most iconic spiral ramp for 360-degree views and four centuries of astronomical heritage.
A 17th-century astronomical observatory and cultural landmark in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter, featuring a unique 200-meter spiral ramp, panoramic city views, and a historic library hall hosting rotating exhibitions and events. Built by King Christian IV in 1642, the tower remains an active observatory and one of Copenhagen's most recognizable monuments.
A brief summary to The Round Tower
- Købmagergade 52A, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1150, DK
- +4533730373
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings between 6–9 PM during winter months (October–March) to observe planets and celestial objects through the telescope with the tower's astronomers.
- Arrive early in the day to avoid peak-hour queues; the tower rarely exceeds 20-minute waits, but morning visits offer shorter lines and clearer views.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes; the 200-meter spiral ramp and final staircases require steady legs, though the ramp's gentle gradient makes it manageable for most visitors.
- Check the Library Hall exhibition schedule before visiting; rotating exhibitions change throughout the year and may occasionally close for setup.
- Pay by credit card if possible; cash is accepted in Danish kroner or Euro (paper bills only), and change is only given in DKK.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro and Walking
Take the Copenhagen Metro (S-train) to Nørreport Station, approximately 5–7 minutes from central Copenhagen depending on your starting point. Exit the station and walk 3–4 minutes through the Latin Quarter to Købmagergade Street, where the Round Tower is located at number 52A. The street is a major shopping thoroughfare, making it easy to navigate and well-signposted. Total journey time: 15–25 minutes including walking.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Latin Quarter near the Round Tower. Routes 5A, 14, and 26 stop within 2–3 minutes' walk of Købmagergade. Journey times vary from 10–20 minutes depending on your starting location and traffic conditions. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Single tickets cost approximately 24 DKK for adults within Copenhagen's central zones.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen is highly bike-friendly with extensive cycle lanes. Rent a bicycle from one of the city's many rental shops or use the Bycyklen bike-sharing system (approximately 30–50 DKK per trip). Cycling to Købmagergade in the Latin Quarter takes 10–15 minutes from most central locations. Secure bike parking is available throughout the area.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, Bolt) operate throughout Copenhagen. Journey times from central locations range from 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Costs typically range from 80–150 DKK from nearby neighborhoods. This option is most convenient if traveling with luggage or mobility limitations, though the tower itself has limited accessibility for wheelchairs due to stairs near the top.
The Round Tower location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Round Tower
A Monument to Royal Vision and Scientific Curiosity
The Round Tower stands as one of Copenhagen's most distinctive landmarks, erected in 1642 by King Christian IV as part of the Trinitatis Complex. This architectural marvel was conceived as a triple-purpose structure: an astronomical observatory at its summit, a university library on the floor above Trinity Church, and the church itself at its base. The tower's construction began with the laying of the cornerstone on July 7, 1637, and was completed five years later, representing a significant investment in both scientific advancement and royal prestige during Denmark's Golden Age.The Iconic Spiral Ramp and Ascent Experience
The tower's most distinctive feature is its famous spiral ramp—the only one of its kind in Denmark—which winds 7½ times around the tower's hollow core. This 200-meter continuous ramp eliminates the need for stairs during most of the ascent, making the climb accessible to visitors of varying fitness levels. The ramp features small niches that serve as pleasant resting spots for adults and popular hiding places for children. Approximately two-thirds of the way up, visitors encounter a glass-bottomed viewing platform suspended above the hollow core—a striking and slightly nerve-racking photo opportunity. The final ascent involves two sets of stairs: a wide wooden staircase and a smaller winding stone staircase leading to the open-air viewing deck at the summit.Panoramic Views and the Observatory
From the top of the tower, visitors enjoy one of Copenhagen's finest panoramic vistas, stretching from the spires of the old town to the Øresund coast. On clear days, the view extends across the water to Sweden. The open-air platform offers sightlines to Copenhagen Cathedral, St. Nicolas Church, Rosenborg Palace, and the Marble Church. The Observatory at the summit remains an active astronomical facility. During the winter season from October to March, astronomers staff the observatory on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9 PM, allowing visitors to observe planets and celestial objects through the tower's large telescope. During select summer Sundays, the sun and sunspots can be observed through a protective filter.The Library Hall: From Scholarship to Contemporary Culture
Halfway up the spiral ramp lies the Library Hall, a bright and beautiful space that once housed the entire University of Copenhagen book collection—over 10,000 volumes. The hall served as the university library until 1861 and was restored in 1987 as a contemporary exhibition and event space. Today, it hosts rotating exhibitions spanning art, science, and history, alongside concerts, lectures, talks, and cultural events. The Library Hall also contains the Round Tower's shop and café, where visitors can purchase books, posters, and souvenirs while enjoying refreshments. The hall's transformation from a scholarly repository to a vibrant cultural venue reflects the tower's evolution as a living landmark.Modern Role and Visitor Experience
The Round Tower attracts over 650,000 visitors annually, making it one of Copenhagen's most popular attractions. The tower operates 362 days a year, with extended hours during summer months. Admission is straightforward: adults pay 60 DKK, students 40 DKK, and children under 17 enter free (children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult). Tickets are purchased directly at the tower's ticket office with no advance booking available. The tower has a maximum capacity managed by staff, and during peak hours, queuing may occur, though waits typically do not exceed 20 minutes. Traffic to and from the viewing platform is regulated by a traffic light to manage flow safely.Restoration and Future Vision
In 2026, the nearly 100-year-old copper dome of the observatory undergoes restoration to preserve this cultural heritage for future generations. The dome, which has developed leaks, receives new copper cladding, and the observatory interior is refurbished, including renewal of the floor and restoration of the historic refractor telescope by specialist craftspeople. Throughout 2026, the Round Tower hosts four special exhibitions and a rich program of music and events exploring the theme of light, demonstrating the tower's continued vitality as a cultural institution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Varehuset Messen
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A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Fiolstræde 42
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Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
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Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Jorcks Passage
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Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Højbro
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A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
The King's Garden
0.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of The King's Garden, a historical park in Copenhagen surrounding the majestic Rosenborg Castle, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
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Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Magstræde
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting charm of Magstræde, one of Copenhagen's oldest streets, filled with historic architecture, cozy cafes, and vibrant local culture.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.6 km
Explore the world of neoclassical sculpture at Thorvaldsens Museum in Copenhagen, home to the works of Bertel Thorvaldsen and a treasure trove of art and architectural inspiration.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.6 km
A hidden gem where medieval water engineering meets early 20th-century artistry in Copenhagen's charming Old Town.
Indre By
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Medieval streets, royal palaces, and European shopping converge in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Christiansborg Palace
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Explore the majestic Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture that captivates all who visit.
Frederik VII
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Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Kongens Nytorv
0.6 km
Discover Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen's historic square, surrounded by iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and easy access to Nyhavn and Strøget for an unforgettable experience.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.7 km
A quiet yet powerful royal monument in Christiansborg’s riding ground, uniting a pivotal Danish king with the groundbreaking sculptor who cast him in bronze.
Unmissable attractions to see
Københavns Synagoge
0.1 km
A discreet 1833 synagogue in Krystalgade whose neoclassical facade hides an Egyptian‑inspired interior and centuries of Danish Jewish history, faith and resilience.
Kultorvet
0.2 km
Historic coal market turned buzzing pedestrian square, where colourful façades, cafés and a modern fountain stage capture everyday Copenhagen life.
Skaal
0.2 km
A visionary concert hall in Copenhagen, DR Koncerthuset fuses world-class acoustics, avant-garde architecture, and a rich tapestry of live music experiences.
Gråbrødretorv
0.2 km
Mythic grandeur meets urban tranquility at Copenhagen’s spectacular Gefion Fountain, a must-see bronze sculpture and water feature rooted in Norse legend.
Balderdash
0.2 km
Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
Pub Crawl Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modernity at Sankt Hans Torv, Nørrebro's lively public square.
Strøget
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Church of Our Lady
0.3 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Amagertorv
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s historic marketplace turned elegant pedestrian square, where storks, cobblestones and centuries‑old facades meet modern design and city life.
Stork Fountain
0.4 km
Bask in the serene Baltic ambiance of Rødvig Beach on South Zealand—an inviting stretch of sand with sweeping views of Stevns Klint and local Danish charm.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.4 km
Heritage 19th‑century walls meet modern apartment comfort in a buzzing, hyper‑central corner of Copenhagen’s historic inner city.
Læderstræde
0.4 km
A cosy Old Town side street where rebuilt 18th‑century townhouses, Danish design boutiques and laid‑back cafés create a calm, human‑scaled alternative to busy Strøget.
Gammeltorv
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s oldest square, where cobbles, Neoclassical facades and the Renaissance Caritas Well quietly trace eight centuries of urban life in the city’s historic core.
Nytorv 2
0.4 km
An everyday address on Copenhagen’s historic Nytorv, placing you between grand courthouse columns, cobbled markets of old and the pulse of the Strøget pedestrian zone.
Botanical Garden
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's royal heritage at Rosenborg Castle, home to the crown jewels and set amidst the historic King's Garden in Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
Det Lille Apotek
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Restaurant Schønnemann
0.2 km
Experience authentic Danish smørrebrød and century-old culinary tradition at Restaurant Schønnemann, a historic Copenhagen institution renowned for its iconic lunch culture.
Wining and Dining
0.2 km
French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Restaurant Sole D’Italia - København
0.2 km
Classic stone-oven pizzas and familiar Italian favourites served on one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric squares in the heart of the old town.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
Københavner Cafeen
0.4 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Restaurant Tight
0.4 km
Cozy multi-level townhouse restaurant in Copenhagen’s Old Town serving Nordic cuisine with a sunny southern twist, generous portions and a warm, brick-and-beam atmosphere.
Alouette
0.4 km
One‑Michelin‑star Green Star dining in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, where hyper‑seasonal Nordic tasting menus meet quietly striking design by the King’s Garden.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.4 km
Warm, candlelit hygge in Copenhagen’s old town, where classic Danish smørrebrød, hearty lunches and aquavit bring traditional flavors to a cosy side-street dining room.
Marv & Ben
0.5 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
l’Alsace
0.5 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
Krebsegaarden
0.5 km
An intimate art-filled townhouse in central Copenhagen where creative tasting menus, warm storytelling service and an epic cheese course turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.5 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Restaurant Maven
0.5 km
Distinctive Scandinavian dining in the soaring nave of a former church, Restaurant Maven offers inventive cuisine and fine wine in Copenhagen's historic Indre By.
ferment, ramen izakaya
0.5 km
Intimate basement izakaya where fermentation, organic ingredients, and Nordic sensibility transform ramen and bao into deeply satisfying art.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Time's Up Vintage
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Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
Another nué
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A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
Studio Arhoj
0.1 km
A working Copenhagen design studio where shelves of colorful ceramics and glass meet the sights, sounds and warmth of craft being made in real time.
Souvenir Gifts shop
0.1 km
Classic Copenhagen souvenirs in a compact, central shop on historic Købmagergade, perfect for last‑minute gifts and easy-to-pack mementos from the Danish capital.
Fjällräven
0.2 km
A compact Fjällräven brand shop on historic Kultorvet, pairing Scandinavian outdoor design with expert gear advice in the heart of Copenhagen’s old town.
Norse Store
0.2 km
Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
Norse Projects
0.2 km
Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.3 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
0.3 km
Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Duck Haven
0.3 km
A tiny, colourful shop in Copenhagen’s old town where hundreds of themed rubber ducks turn souvenir hunting into a playful, photo‑worthy detour.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.3 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Magnolias
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A compact, upscale secondhand boutique on Købmagergade, Magnolias blends Copenhagen chic with curated pre-loved designer fashion in the city’s historic shopping heart.
& Other Stories
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Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
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Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
Hygge Original
0.3 km
A cozy Danish design shop on Amagertorv, offering hygge-inspired clothing, textiles and gifts in a calm, Scandinavian setting amid Copenhagen’s busiest streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar'Vin
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Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
Gejser Bar
0.1 km
Craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine in Copenhagen's most welcoming sophisticated bar.
Strøm
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Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
The Jane
0.1 km
Mad Men–style speakeasy meets late-night dance floor in a warren of hidden rooms, leather sofas and cocktail-fuelled energy beneath central Copenhagen.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.2 km
Intimate basement cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pairing creative drinks with warm lighting, easygoing music and a sociable late-night city-centre vibe.
Luke's Bar
0.2 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
No Stress Bar
0.3 km
Basement cocktail pub in Copenhagen’s historic center mixing dessert-inspired drinks, games, comedy and drag shows into one laid-back, late-night hangout.
Charlie's Bar
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
The Globe Irish Pub
0.3 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in central Copenhagen, pouring serious beer and whiskey alongside hearty comfort food, sports screenings and cozy, hygge-tinged corners.
The Moose
0.3 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Trykbar
0.3 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
The Dubliner
0.4 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
