The Atmospheric Canals of Frederiksholms Kanal
Historic canal in Indre By weaving past royal palaces, stately bridges, and cultural icons—offering tranquil walks and quintessential Copenhagen views.
Frederiksholms Kanal is a historic waterway threading through central Copenhagen’s Indre By, flanked by elegant neoclassical façades, government landmarks, and lush promenades. Dating from the 17th century, it offers a tranquil perspective on Copenhagen’s storied past and contemporary vibrancy, with reflections of royal palaces and the city’s bustling core mirrored on its still waters.
A brief summary to Copenhagen Zoo
- Roskildevej 32, Frederiksberg, 2000, DK
- +4572200200
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Walk early in the morning for serene canal-side views and soft sunlight—perfect for photography before crowds arrive.
- Adjacent museums like the Thorvaldsen Museum and Black Diamond Library offer quick cultural detours from the canal.
- Look out for historical plaques along the waterfront, which reveal surprising stories of Copenhagen’s royal past.
- Canal cruises pass by here—consider hopping on for a different perspective of the city.
- Be cautious with bicycles and e-scooters as cycling lanes run close to the water in places.
Getting There
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Walking
Frederiksholms Kanal is easily reached from Copenhagen’s city center, especially from the area around the iconic City Hall or bustling Strøget shopping district. A leisurely 8–15 minute walk brings you alongside city squares, past the imposing Christiansborg Palace, and toward the water’s edge. Strolls are mostly flat and accessible, though cobblestones can make parts uneven. The canal’s proximity to major landmarks means orientation is visually straightforward. There is no admission, and the area is ideal for exploring on foot year-round.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines and the Copenhagen Metro serve stops within a short walk of Frederiksholms Kanal. From popular central stations such as Rådhuspladsen or Gammel Strand, a metro or bus journey typically costs DKK 24 for a single adult ticket and takes about 5–10 minutes. Upon arrival, you’re within sight of Slotsholmen’s spires and the stately bridges marking the canal. Stations and routes are wheelchair accessible.
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Taxi
Taxis throughout central Copenhagen will often use landmarks like Christiansborg Palace for navigation. The journey to Frederiksholms Kanal from most Indre By locations is short, typically under 10 minutes, with fares usually in the range of DKK 70–110 depending on distance and time of day. Taxi drop-off points are conveniently found near the Parliament and the National Museum.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a popular and efficient way to access Frederiksholms Kanal, with dedicated cycling lanes leading right to the waterfront. Cycling from central Indre By usually takes less than 10 minutes. City bike rental programs are plentiful in the area, averaging DKK 12–25 per 30 minutes. Cycle parking is available along the promenade, though spaces fill quickly in peak times.
Discover more about Copenhagen Zoo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Storm P. Museum
0.6 km
Delve into the world of Danish humor and satirical art at the Storm P. Museum, where whimsical cartoons, eccentric inventions, and cultural history come alive in Frederiksberg.
Elefantporten
0.7 km
A whimsical blend of art nouveau charm and industrial heritage, the Elefantporten forms Carlsberg's unforgettable entryway in historic Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
Frederiksbergmuseerne
0.8 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Møstings Hus
0.8 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
0.9 km
Wander Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter, a vibrant maze of cobbled lanes, indie cafés, artisan shops, and centuries-old architecture at the heart of the city.
Enghaveparken
1.3 km
Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
Frihedsstøtten
2.5 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.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
2.6 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Copenhagen Central Station
2.6 km
Copenhagen Central Station is the vibrant gateway to Denmark’s capital, blending historic architecture, bustling platforms, and local flavor at the heart of Zealand.
Cykelslangen
2.6 km
Experience Copenhagen's iconic Cykelslangen, a vibrant orange cycle bridge offering a unique and scenic route through the harbor, showcasing the city's commitment to cycling and innovative design.
Folkets Park
2.6 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Rutschebanen
2.7 km
Iconic 1914 wooden roller coaster in Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, offering nostalgic thrills and hands-on history amid the city’s legendary amusement park.
Copenhagen Central Post Building
2.8 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.
Havneholmen 33
2.8 km
Aarhus’ University Park, where golden brick buildings and tranquil lakes merge in a vibrant blend of Danish design, academic heritage, and peaceful green space.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
2.9 km
Discover 'Heracles and the Hydra'—a captivating modern sculpture that unites Greek mythology and Danish artistry beside historic Kronborg Castle in Helsingør.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frederiksberg Palace
0.1 km
Discover an extraordinary world of curiosities and oddities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – Copenhagen’s playful museum of the bizarre on lively Rådhuspladsen.
Søndermarken
0.2 km
Explore the historic and serene Søndermarken park in Frederiksberg, featuring the unique Cisternerne art museum and the Memorial Mound.
Cisterns in Søndermarken
0.2 km
Malmö Live Concert Hall: Southern Sweden’s iconic, state-of-the-art music and cultural venue, renowned for world-class performances and striking Scandinavian architecture.
Frederiksberg Gardens
0.4 km
Explore contemporary Northern Atlantic art at Copenhagen's historic Bredgade Kunsthandel.
The Hill House Museum
0.7 km
Engage with interactive science exhibits at Experimentarium, Copenhagen's premier hands-on science center.
Carlsberg Brewery Tours
0.9 km
Malmo Live Concert Hall in Malmö fuses world-class musical performance, diverse cultural events, and modern Scandinavian design in a dynamic setting near Copenhagen.
Frederiksberg Walk of Fame
1.1 km
Explore the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame, where Denmark's cultural legends are celebrated along a historic, tree-lined avenue.
Frederiksberg Allé
1.2 km
Explore Danish creativity at Bredgade Kunsthandel, a renowned private gallery in central Copenhagen specializing in modern and contemporary art in an intimate setting.
Falkonerbrønden
1.5 km
A star-studded stroll in Copenhagen: the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame celebrates Danish legends along one of the city’s most iconic boulevards.
Landbohøjskolens Have
1.6 km
Enjoy fun, relaxation, and community spirit at Byparkens Legeplads—Roskilde’s centrally located playground and family haven in the scenic Byparken.
Legepladsen i Skydebanehaven
1.9 km
UNESCO-listed Kronborg Castle in Helsingør blends Renaissance grandeur, Hamlet legends, and sweeping sea views, making it a must-visit cultural landmark near Copenhagen.
Det Ny Teater
2.0 km
Spectacular Belle Époque theatre in Vesterbro, Copenhagen, famed for lavish musicals and opulent interiors reminiscent of grand European opera houses.
Fermentoren
2.1 km
Historic Stændertorvet is Roskilde’s vibrant town square, surrounded by cafes and markets, with the UNESCO-listed cathedral as an iconic backdrop at its edge.
Mikkeller Bar
2.1 km
Unearth Denmark’s maritime past in a stunning underground museum beside Kronborg Castle—where interactive exhibits and bold design chart centuries of seafaring adventure.
Freddys Bar
2.2 km
Stændertorvet in Roskilde is a historic central square where tradition, community, and daily life intersect at the foot of the majestic Roskilde Cathedral.
Essential places to dine
Hansens Gamle Familiehave
0.5 km
Hansens Gamle Familiehave—a historic Frederiksberg garden restaurant famed for classic Danish cuisine, family-friendly charm, and over 170 years of tradition in scenic surroundings.
Enomania
0.5 km
Intimate Italian restaurant in Frederiksberg celebrated for expertly paired wine menus, exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, and an atmospheric, welcoming dining experience.
Restaurant Frederiks Have
0.8 km
Frederiksberg’s cherished fine dining hub, blending Nordic tradition with modern cuisine in a welcoming, neighborhood setting—perfect for an authentic Danish gastronomic experience.
Ewalds Brasserie
0.9 km
Classic Danish-French brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, offering seasonal menus, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning garden views for an authentic local dining experience.
Café Lindevang
1.1 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Frederik the VI
1.3 km
Discover culinary delights at Frederik the VI - a vibrant restaurant and pub serving authentic Danish cuisine in Frederiksberg C.
Restaurant Polly København
1.5 km
A modern Nordic brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, blending Danish produce, creative cuisine, and relaxed elegance for a memorable city dining experience.
Bevi Bevi
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Bevi Bevi, a charming restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen.
Restaurant Spuntino
1.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Spuntino in Copenhagen - where flavors meet ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Folkehuset Absalon
1.8 km
Folkehuset Absalon is Copenhagen’s colorful former-church-turned-community living room—offering communal dinners, creative events, and authentic local camaraderie in Vesterbro.
Madklubben Vesterbro
1.9 km
A buzzing, design-forward restaurant in the heart of Vesterbro, known for great value fixed-price menus and a welcoming slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Delphine
2.0 km
Delphine brings the vibrant essence of Mediterranean coastal dining to Copenhagen’s Vesterbro, blending sun-soaked ambiance, fresh seafood, and a lively social scene.
Maple Casual Dining
2.2 km
Discover the essence of Danish cuisine at Maple Casual Dining in Vesterbro—where every dish tells a story.
Cofoco
2.2 km
Cofoco blends innovative Danish cuisine, warm Nordic design, and approachable pricing, offering a must-try contemporary dining experience in the heart of vibrant Vesterbro.
Paté Paté
2.2 km
Paté Paté offers Mediterranean-inspired dining and expertly curated wines in Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District, blending industrial charm with vibrant Copenhagen culinary culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
0.7 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.
Frederiksberg Centret
1.2 km
Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.
Værnedamsvej
1.7 km
Copenhagen’s beloved Parisian-style street, brimming with independent shops, cafés, wine bars, and Scandinavian charm between vibrant Vesterbro and Frederiksberg.
Funky Junky
1.9 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
2.5 km
A stylish Vesterbro boutique filled with curated Nordic fashion, contemporary gifts, and Danish design treasures for visitors seeking authentic Copenhagen keepsakes.
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
2.6 km
Copenhagen’s largest waterfront shopping destination, blending Danish urban design, diverse retail, global cuisine, and scenic harbor views in one lively location.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
2.7 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and timeless fashion in the heart of Nørrebro’s creative district at Perfectly Worn Vintage, Copenhagen’s haven for unique style.
Tivoli Gift Shop
2.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and Danish crafts at the Tivoli Gift Shop, capturing the magic of Copenhagen's historic amusement park.
PRAG Nørrebro
2.9 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
McKorman
3.0 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Nørrebrogade
3.0 km
Nørrebrogade in Nørrebro embodies multicultural Copenhagen—a bustling boulevard of global eats, indie shops, street art, and local vibrance at the city’s creative edge.
Wasteland
3.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures at Wasteland in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter.
Viking Souvenirs
3.0 km
Discover authentic Viking keepsakes and Danish-designed gifts at Viking Souvenirs, perfectly placed on Copenhagen’s historic shopping street for a unique Nordic shopping adventure.
Quirky Lane
3.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Quirky Lane, Copenhagen's eclectic boutique for sustainable fashion enthusiasts.
Butik Bungalow
3.1 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Intime
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.
Berlin Bar
1.1 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
1.2 km
Experience the craft of brewing at Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar, Frederiksberg's premier destination for beer lovers with an extensive selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Märkbar
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Märkbar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets an eclectic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
bird
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Bird, where unique cocktails and a laid-back ambiance await you.
The House of Machines Copenhagen
1.4 km
Creative cocktails, industrial design, and live music collide at The House of Machines—Vesterbro’s must-visit nightlife destination for an authentic Copenhagen evening.
La Fée Verte
1.5 km
Discover La Fée Verte, a charming bar in Frederiksberg, offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Tap 21 Craft Beer
1.7 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Tap 21, a cozy Frederiksberg bar offering a wide selection of local and international brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
Riesen Bar
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
Lidkoeb
1.8 km
Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Amigo Bar
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Amigo Bar, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.
Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar
1.8 km
Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Gensyn Bar
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg C at Gensyn Bar, known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
2.0 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
1656 Cocktail Bar
2.2 km
An intimate speakeasy in Vesterbro, 1656 Cocktail Bar is famed for inventive cocktails, candlelit ambiance, and one of Copenhagen’s finest curated drinking experiences.