Himmelskibet (Star Flyer)
Spin 80 meters high on the world's tallest carousel swing for breathtaking Copenhagen views.
Himmelskibet, Danish for 'Sky Ship,' is the world's tallest carousel swing ride, soaring 80 meters above Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. Opened in 2006, this thrilling attraction combines the nostalgic charm of a classic carousel with modern engineering, spinning riders in open-air swings that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the amusement park below. Perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush with a view.
A brief summary to Himmelskibet
- Bernstorffsgade 7, Copenhagen, København V, 1577, DK
- +4533151001
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11:15 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 11:15 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 11:15 am-10 pm
- Thursday 11:15 am-10 pm
- Friday 11:15 am-11 pm
- Saturday 11:15 am-11 pm
- Sunday 11:15 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during late afternoon or evening for the best combination of daylight views and city lights. The ride is particularly magical as the sun sets and Copenhagen's skyline illuminates.
- Choose clear weather days for optimal visibility. On clear days, you can see across the entire city and far beyond; cloudy or foggy conditions significantly reduce the panoramic experience.
- Arrive early in the day to minimize wait times, especially during peak summer season. The ride is popular, and queues tend to build as the day progresses.
- Secure loose items before boarding. The open-air swings and height mean phones, glasses, and small belongings should be safely stored or left with a companion.
- Ride multiple times if possible—the experience changes dramatically depending on time of day, lighting conditions, and wind patterns, offering fresh perspectives each time.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro + Walking
Take the Copenhagen Metro (S-train) to Rådhuspladsen Station, approximately 5-8 minutes from central Copenhagen. Exit and walk 2-3 minutes to Tivoli Gardens' main entrance on Vesterbrogade. This is the most convenient and frequent option, with trains departing every 5-10 minutes during peak hours. Cost: approximately 24 DKK for a single ticket within zones 1-2.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Tivoli, including lines 6A, 14, and 26, which stop near the main entrance on Vesterbrogade or nearby Rådhuspladsen. Journey times vary from 10-20 minutes depending on starting point and traffic conditions. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Cost: approximately 24 DKK for a single ticket within zones 1-2.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen is highly bike-friendly with extensive cycle lanes. Tivoli is centrally located and accessible by bicycle from most neighborhoods within 15-25 minutes. Bike parking is available near the entrance. This is a popular option for locals and visitors familiar with cycling in urban environments.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, local alternatives) can deliver you directly to Tivoli's entrance on Vesterbrogade. Journey times from central Copenhagen are typically 5-15 minutes depending on traffic. Cost varies but generally ranges from 60-150 DKK from central locations. Note that parking near Tivoli is limited and expensive; rideshare is more convenient than personal vehicles.
Himmelskibet location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Himmelskibet
A Towering Icon of Modern Thrills
Himmelskibet stands as one of Tivoli Gardens' most iconic and exhilarating attractions since its debut in 2006. The name translates to 'Sky Ship' in English, and the ride lives up to its celestial title by lifting riders 80 meters into the air—making it the world's tallest carousel swing ride. Unlike traditional carousels that spin at ground level, Himmelskibet combines the nostalgic appeal of a classic carousel with cutting-edge engineering, creating an experience that is both whimsical and intensely thrilling. As the ride spins, riders are suspended in open-air swings that extend outward, creating the sensation of flying through the Copenhagen sky.Breathtaking Views and Sensory Thrills
The primary allure of Himmelskibet lies in its dual appeal: the adrenaline rush of height and speed combined with unobstructed panoramic views. From the apex of the ride, visitors can see across Copenhagen's rooftops, the surrounding neighborhoods, and on clear days, far beyond the city limits. The open-air swings mean there are no barriers between riders and the expansive vistas below, amplifying both the visual spectacle and the visceral thrill. The ride is particularly spectacular during late afternoon and evening hours when the city begins to light up, transforming the experience into something almost magical. Many visitors specifically time their visit to ride Himmelskibet as the sun sets, combining the adrenaline of the swing with the romance of golden-hour views.Engineering Marvel and Design
Himmelskibet represents a significant engineering achievement in amusement park design. The ride's structure is a masterpiece of balance and precision, with a central rotating hub from which multiple swings extend. As the carousel spins, centrifugal force gradually pushes the swings outward, creating the illusion and sensation of weightlessness. The ride operates smoothly and safely, with modern safety systems ensuring that the thrill never comes at the expense of security. The design itself is visually striking—the bright colors and geometric structure make it one of Tivoli's most photographed attractions, visible from various points throughout the park and even from surrounding streets.A Tivoli Institution
As part of Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks (founded in 1843), Himmelskibet exists within a rich cultural and historical context. Tivoli itself was created as a place of recreation and escape, and Himmelskibet embodies this philosophy by offering visitors a temporary departure from everyday life—literally lifting them above the city. The ride attracts a diverse audience: thrill-seekers seeking an adrenaline rush, couples looking for a romantic experience with a view, photographers capturing iconic Copenhagen imagery, and families introducing older children to more intense attractions. The ride's prominence in Tivoli's lineup reflects its status as a must-do experience for many visitors to the park.Seasonal Considerations and Best Times
Himmelskibet operates during Tivoli's seasonal openings. The summer season runs from late March through September, with the park open daily from late morning through evening. Weather significantly impacts the experience: clear skies enhance the views dramatically, while rain or fog can reduce visibility. Windy conditions add an extra element of thrill, though the ride remains safe in normal weather variations. Evening visits are particularly popular, as the city lights create a magical backdrop and the cooler temperatures make the spinning sensation more comfortable. During special seasonal events like Halloween (October) and Christmas (November through early January), Himmelskibet takes on additional atmosphere with thematic lighting and decorations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Copenhagen Central Post Building
0.2 km
A majestic neo-Baroque landmark intertwining Denmark’s postal history with Vesterbro’s vibrant urban fabric, located beside Copenhagen’s bustling central railway station.
Copenhagen Central Station
0.2 km
Historic brick-and-timber rail hub at the heart of Copenhagen, combining grand architecture, everyday convenience and instant access to the city’s main sights.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
0.3 km
A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
0.3 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Frihedsstøtten
0.3 km
Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Lur Blowers
0.4 km
Bronze Age horns meet early 20th‑century grandeur in this 20‑metre column, where two silent lur players keep watch over Copenhagen’s bustling City Hall Square.
Nytorv 2
0.7 km
Where Copenhagen’s Neoclassical courthouse meets a centuries-old market square, blending solemn civic history with the everyday buzz of the old city.
The Stable Boy's House
0.7 km
A modest former service house on Frederiksholms Kanal, quietly recalling the working lives behind Copenhagen’s royal stables and the grandeur of nearby Christiansborg.
Gammeltorv
0.7 km
Discover Copenhagen's only Russian Orthodox Church, renowned for its gilded domes, lavish icons, and evocative ties to Denmark's royal and multicultural heritage.
Danish Architecture Centre
0.7 km
Explore Danish and international architecture, urban development, and design at Copenhagen's premier cultural center, the Danish Architecture Centre, located in the iconic BLOX building.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.8 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.
Church of Our Lady
0.8 km
Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.8 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.
Jorcks Passage
0.8 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Lille Langebro
0.8 km
Explore Kronborg Castle, the iconic setting of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' and delve into Denmark's Renaissance history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rutschebanen
0.1 km
A century-old wooden roller coaster weaving through a rocky mountain in Tivoli Gardens, where a live brakeman and rattling timber keep Copenhagen’s past in motion.
Tivoli Gardens
0.1 km
Explore enchanting Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen, home to Denmark’s Crown Jewels, opulent royal halls, lush gardens, and centuries of riveting royal history.
The Tube
0.2 km
Step into a World War II bomb shelter transformed into a mind-bending immersive experience with 17 interactive rooms.
Red Sightseeing Copenhagen
0.2 km
Hands-on science, vintage vehicles, and maritime history come together in this interactive, family-friendly branch of Malmö Museum, housed in an iconic industrial building.
Model train display
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Model Train Display in Copenhagen, showcasing intricate landscapes and charming miniature railways for all ages.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
0.3 km
Explore Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen's Renaissance masterpiece housing Denmark's Crown Jewels and royal treasures.
Statue of Andersen
0.3 km
A larger-than-life Hans Christian Andersen sits in bronze on Copenhagen’s City Hall Square, book in hand, gazing toward Tivoli Gardens in the city’s vibrant heart.
Copenhagen City Hall
0.3 km
Explore Denmark's Viking heritage along the scenic Skjoldungestien trail.
Museum of Copenhagen
0.3 km
Explore a thousand years of Copenhagen's history through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the stories of its people.
Jens Olsen's World Clock
0.4 km
Descend beneath Søndermarken Park to discover Copenhagen’s historic water cisterns, now transformed into a mesmerizing underground art museum unlike any other in Denmark.
City Hall Square
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s grand urban living room: a historic civic square framed by City Hall, whimsical fountains, and the gateway to the pedestrian heart of the city.
Rainbow Square
0.4 km
A small city-centre plaza with a powerful rainbow dedication, Rainbow Square turns everyday pavement beside Copenhagen City Hall into a quiet landmark for LGBTQ+ equality.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
0.4 km
A compact oddities museum on Rådhuspladsen where shrunken heads, vortex tunnels and record‑breaking curiosities turn everyday Copenhagen into a world of wonders.
Hans Christian Andersen Experience
0.4 km
Step off bustling City Hall Square into a multisensory world where Hans Christian Andersen’s life and fairy tales unfold through atmospheric sets, light, sound and scent.
National Museum of Denmark
0.5 km
Denmark’s past comes alive in a grand city palace, where Vikings, royal salons and playful children’s galleries tell 14,000 years of stories under one roof.
Essential places to dine
La Baracca Tivoli - Food Hall
0.2 km
Handmade Italian pasta and wine in the heart of Tivoli Food Hall, offering relaxed, counter-service dining steps from Copenhagen Central Station.
Spisestedet FEED
0.3 km
Discover exquisite flavors and an inviting atmosphere at Spisestedet FEED in the heart of København.
Rio Bravo
0.4 km
Western‑themed Copenhagen stalwart serving hearty Danish classics and steaks late into the night in a nostalgic saloon setting off City Hall Square.
Restaurant Noi
0.4 km
Experience modern Nordic cuisine in a stylish, contemporary setting at Restaurant Noi, a favorite for seasonal dining in the heart of central Copenhagen.
Restaurant Karla
0.4 km
Century-old Danish restaurant serving beloved classics and authentic smørrebrød in the heart of Copenhagen, steps from major museums and city attractions.
Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen
0.4 km
Rock legends, legendary burgers, and unforgettable American dining in Copenhagen's vibrant heart.
LUN restaurant & winebar
0.5 km
Andalusian-inspired tasting menus, serious wine and cocktails, and a warm candlelit atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen’s Vesterbro district.
Retour Vesterbro
0.5 km
Relaxed French-inspired bistro in the heart of Vesterbro, serving generous steaks, classic comfort dishes and cocktails in a warm, urban Copenhagen setting.
Smagsløget
0.5 km
Discover Smagsløget in Copenhagen: where traditional Danish flavors meet innovative culinary experiences in an inviting atmosphere.
L'appetito
0.5 km
Traditional Italian plates, thin-crust pizzas and warm trattoria charm just off Copenhagen’s busy city centre streets.
Restaurant Puk
0.5 km
Historic Danish restaurant in Indre By, Copenhagen, serving classic smørrebrød and comfort dishes in a centuries-old setting with authentic local atmosphere.
Ristorante Buono
0.6 km
Cozy Vesterbro Italian with candlelit tables, generous pasta and risotto, and a relaxed neighbourhood feel in the heart of Copenhagen’s evening dining scene.
Husmanns Vinstue
0.6 km
Classic smørrebrød, candles and aquavit in a historic Copenhagen cellar devoted entirely to the long, unhurried Danish lunch.
Kanal-Caféen
0.6 km
Historic canal-side lunch restaurant from 1852, serving classic Danish smørrebrød and platters in cosy wood-panelled rooms beside Frederiksholms Kanal.
Maple Casual Dining
0.6 km
Intimate Copenhagen dinner spot on Vesterbrogade, serving polished home-style dishes, generous desserts and warm service in a cozy, modern neighborhood setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tivoli Gift Shop
0.0 km
A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.
Souvenir Gift Shop
0.3 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
0.4 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Wonderful Souvenirs
0.4 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Danish Souvenirs
0.5 km
Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Viking Souvenirs
0.5 km
Lively Strøget souvenir shop packed with Viking‑themed gifts, Danish icons and suitcase‑friendly mementos, ideal for quick last‑minute presents in central Copenhagen.
Souvenir Shop
0.6 km
Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
Carmen Copenhagen
0.6 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
København K
0.6 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Wasteland
0.7 km
A high-energy vintage hub in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, packed with curated 80s, 90s and Y2K streetwear, denim and accessories in a distinctly urban setting.
Quirky Lane
0.7 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
0.7 km
A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.7 km
Central Copenhagen’s hygge-filled stop for Scandinavian design and classic Danish souvenirs, perfectly placed on Nygade just off Strøget’s busy pedestrian flow.
Notre Dame
0.7 km
A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.8 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Library Bar
0.2 km
Experience Copenhagen's luxurious Library Bar, where sophisticated cocktails meet an inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Jernbanecafeen
0.3 km
Densely decorated, railway‑themed pub opposite Copenhagen Central Station, where model trains, red carpets and cold beer create a lively Vesterbro living room.
The Storm Inn Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of The Storm Inn in Copenhagen, a cozy pub offering a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Proud Mary Pub
0.3 km
Loud, lively and central, Proud Mary Pub brings a British-style pub atmosphere, hearty bar food and big beer nights to Copenhagen’s Vesterbrogade.
The Marble Bar
0.4 km
An intimate marble-clad cocktail hideaway inside Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, serving Scandinavian-inflected drinks and quiet luxury steps from Tivoli Gardens.
The Scottish Pub
0.4 km
Lively Scottish‑style pub on Copenhagen’s main square, pouring pints and whisky late into the night with music, sports on TV and an easygoing, social crowd.
The Shamrock Inn
0.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Shamrock Inn, Copenhagen's premier Irish pub with live music and sports entertainment.
The Rooftop Bar
0.4 km
Compact rooftop oasis atop Hotel Danmark, pairing 360-degree Copenhagen views with cocktails, bubbles and golden-hour sunsets above the city’s historic heart.
Southern Cross Pub
0.4 km
Two-floor Copenhagen sports pub pouring affordable pints, wall-to-wall live games, and late-night energy in the heart of the inner city.
CUBE bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at CUBE Bar, a stylish venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Taphouse
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s modern beer hall, pouring 61 ever‑changing craft taps in a relaxed, Scandinavian setting just steps from the historic city center.
not your USUAL wine bar
0.5 km
Discover wines from the world's forgotten regions in Copenhagen's most unconventional wine bar.
Spunk
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Spunk, a lively bar in Copenhagen offering a diverse drinks menu and an inviting atmosphere for all.
Centralhjørnet
0.5 km
One of Copenhagen’s oldest gay bars, Centralhjørnet is a cosy, festive corner pub where historic LGBTQ+ heritage meets camp décor and easy-going charm.
Musen & Elefanten
0.5 km
Smoky, old-school Copenhagen bar and cigar hideaway where classic drinks, worn wood and late-night conversations create a timeless, slightly secret atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Module
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
Club Mambo
0.4 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Never Mind
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Den Anden Side
0.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Dorsia
0.6 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
CristalClubCopenhagen
0.6 km
Dive into Copenhagen's nightlife at Cristal Club, where upscale ambiance meets electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
Cosy Bar
0.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Miami Bar
0.7 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub, where adult entertainment meets unforgettable performances.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
0.7 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
Baggen
0.7 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Baggen, where Copenhagen's nightlife comes alive with vibrant music and unforgettable experiences.
Mirror
0.7 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
La Terraza
0.7 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adrenaline-pumping
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Viral Moments
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Child Friendly
