Københavns Synagoge (Great Synagogue of Copenhagen)
A discreet 1830s synagogue tucked off Krystalgade, combining neoclassical form, Egyptian detail and deep Jewish history at the heart of Copenhagen.
Tucked back from busy Krystalgade in Copenhagen’s historic center, Københavns Synagoge is the spiritual heart of Denmark’s Jewish community and a striking 19th‑century landmark. Completed in 1833 and designed by architect G.F. Hetsch in a neoclassical, Egyptian‑influenced style, it blends sober street frontage with a richly decorated interior of columns, painted details and a prominent ark. Beyond its architecture, the synagogue tells a powerful story of religious freedom, resilience and Jewish life in Denmark from the 1600s to the present day.
A brief summary to Københavns Synagoge
- Krystalgade, Copenhagen, Indre By, 12, DK
- +4533128868
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
- Thursday 10 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Check opening hours in advance; visits are usually limited to weekday mornings and early afternoons and may require pre‑registration and ID for security.
- Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees; men may be asked to wear a head covering, which is sometimes provided at the entrance.
- Allow time to look up at the ceiling, columns and ark; many of the most interesting architectural and symbolic details sit above eye level.
- Be prepared for increased security around Jewish holidays or after major events, when access can be more restricted or guided‑only.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public transport from central Copenhagen
From the City Hall Square area, reach Krystalgade via the M3 or M4 metro to Gammel Strand or Nørreport, both about 2–5 minutes by train and running every few minutes. A standard single metro ticket within the central zones typically costs around 20–30 DKK. From either station, expect a flat, urban walk of about 5–10 minutes through pedestrian streets to the synagogue, suitable for most visitors including those with light mobility limitations.
-
Walking within the historic center
If you are already in the Indre By district near major sights such as Strøget or the university buildings, plan on a 5–15 minute walk to Krystalgade along mostly paved, level streets. The area is dense with pedestrians and cyclists, so allow extra time at busy hours. Walking is free and offers the best chance to appreciate the narrow lanes and historic façades surrounding the synagogue; the route is generally manageable for visitors comfortable with short urban walks.
-
Taxi or rideshare within Copenhagen
Taxis within the central districts can bring you close to the Krystalgade entrance in about 5–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Typical fares for short inner‑city trips fall in the range of 70–150 DKK, with surcharges in the evening and at weekends. Vehicles can usually drop passengers near the synagogue gate, but brief walks may still be required due to one‑way streets and occasional congestion in the old town.
-
Bicycle access in the city center
Copenhagen’s extensive cycle lanes make it easy to reach Krystalgade by bicycle from most central neighbourhoods within 10–20 minutes. You can use personal bikes or city bikes rented by the hour, typically costing around 20–40 DKK per half hour. Bike parking is usually available along nearby streets, though racks may fill during peak weekday hours, so allow time to find a suitable spot and walk the final short stretch on foot.
Københavns Synagoge location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Hot Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Københavns Synagoge
A hidden sanctuary in the middle of old Copenhagen
Københavns Synagoge sits discreetly on Krystalgade in the heart of the old city, its façade set slightly back from the line of houses as an echo of a time when Jewish life was allowed, but not encouraged, to be visible. Built between 1830 and 1833, it became the main synagogue for Copenhagen’s Jewish community and still serves as its central place of worship. Stepping through the gate feels like entering a self‑contained world, where layered history is held behind sober brick walls. The building replaced earlier synagogues that had either been tucked into private homes or destroyed by fire in the late 18th century. Its construction followed a royal decree that finally granted Jews the same civil rights as other citizens in 1814, marking a turning point from toleration to formal equality. As such, the synagogue is as much a monument to religious freedom and integration as it is a house of prayer.Neoclassical lines with Egyptian flourishes
Architect G.F. Hetsch gave the synagogue a neoclassical structure, with clean lines and a near‑square ground plan, but enriched it with a distinctive blend of oriental and Egyptian Revival details. The façade, framed by pilasters and a restrained cornice, is animated by a rhythm of twelve columns symbolising the twelve tribes of Israel. These symbolic pillars turn a relatively modest frontage into a quietly eloquent statement of identity. Inside, the main hall is laid out as a basilica with a high central nave and two narrower side aisles. Octagonal columns separate the spaces and support galleries and a richly patterned coffered ceiling, chosen instead of the barrel vault the congregation originally requested. At the eastern end, the eye is drawn to the elevated ark and its cornice with Egyptian‑inspired forms, crowned by Hebrew inscriptions that remind worshippers "know before whom you stand".Gendered seating and liturgical space
The interior layout reflects Orthodox tradition. The men’s section occupies the floor of the central space, while women sit on the side galleries and on the west‑end balcony, maintaining a visual connection while respecting gender separation. This vertical arrangement gives the room a layered, intimate feel even under the high ceiling. At the heart of the liturgy stands the bimah, an estrade with an altar‑like reading desk from which the Torah is chanted and the cantor leads the prayers. Behind it, steps rise to the ark where Torah scrolls are housed. Decorative painting, warm tones and filtered daylight combine to create a solemn yet welcoming atmosphere, especially during festivals when the hall is filled with song.Stories of resilience and protection
The synagogue’s history mirrors key chapters of Danish‑Jewish experience. During the Second World War, Torah scrolls were secretly moved for safekeeping to a nearby church, a small but telling episode in the wider story of how many Danish Jews were helped to escape persecution. Later, the building endured politically motivated attacks, including a bombing in the 1980s, yet remained structurally intact and in continued use. Its status as a listed building underlines its cultural importance within Denmark’s architectural and religious landscape. Renovation campaigns in the 20th and 21st centuries have carefully restored original details while upgrading the fabric so the synagogue can continue to function as both a living congregation and a historical monument.Visiting today: atmosphere and access
Today, Københavns Synagoge welcomes visitors on limited weekday tours, typically in the late morning and early afternoon, outside of major religious holidays and security‑sensitive periods. Entry is usually free or modestly priced, but advance registration and ID checks are common due to security requirements. The experience focuses on architecture, ritual objects and the broader story of Jewish life in Copenhagen. Inside, you can expect a calm, contemplative ambience: the muted sound of the city, the creak of wooden pews, the play of light on painted columns and Hebrew lettering. Visits are generally seated and guided rather than self‑led wanderings, giving time to absorb the space. Modest dress and respectful behaviour are essential, and photography rules vary and are set by the community.A compact stop in a dense historic quarter
The synagogue lies within walking distance of major central sights, yet feels slightly apart due to its recessed position and gated forecourt. Most visits last under an hour, making it an easy stop to combine with nearby museums, churches and university buildings. Mobile reception is typically strong, but once you step inside the sanctuary, the atmosphere encourages you to disconnect and focus on the architecture, stories and quiet continuity of worship that has carried on here for nearly two centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fiolstræde 42
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Varehuset Messen
0.3 km
A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.5 km
A hidden gem where medieval water engineering meets early 20th-century artistry in Copenhagen's charming Old Town.
Højbro
0.5 km
A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.6 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
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.
Rosenborg Castle
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen, a historic gem showcasing royal treasures and serene gardens.
Lur Blowers
0.6 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.
The King's Garden
0.6 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.
City Hall Square
0.6 km
Copenhagen’s City Hall Square is the city’s ceremonial heart, blending grand architecture, local traditions, lively events, and everyday urban buzz into one essential landmark.
Jens Olsen's World Clock
0.6 km
A gilded astronomical masterpiece with 15,448 parts, calculating time and cosmos for the next 2,500 years.
Copenhagen City Hall
0.7 km
Denmark's civic masterpiece: National Romantic architecture, astronomical engineering, and the heartbeat of Copenhagen.
Christiansborg Palace
0.7 km
Explore the majestic Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture that captivates all who visit.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Round Tower
0.1 km
Experience the living history and regal elegance of Amalienborg Palace, Copenhagen’s iconic royal residence at the heart of Danish tradition and culture.
Kultorvet
0.2 km
Historic coal market turned lively pedestrian square, Kultorvet blends layered architecture, fountain-side cafés and everyday city life in the heart of Copenhagen.
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.
Church of Our Lady
0.2 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Balderdash
0.3 km
Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.3 km
Heritage 19th‑century walls meet modern apartment comfort in a buzzing, hyper‑central corner of Copenhagen’s historic inner city.
Gammeltorv
0.3 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
0.3 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.
Strøget
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
TorvehallerneKBH
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s glass-walled food halls where Nordic produce, global flavours and everyday city life come together in one vibrant urban marketplace.
Amagertorv
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s historic marketplace turned elegant pedestrian square, where storks, cobblestones and centuries‑old facades meet modern design and city life.
Nytorv
0.4 km
Cobbled, compact and quietly dramatic, Nytorv blends royal-era markets, grim judicial history and Neoclassical authority at the pedestrian heart of old Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Food Tours - Best-Rated Experiences
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's labor history at The Workers Museum in Copenhagen's historic Workers' Assembly Hall.
Weirdwalks Byvandring
0.4 km
Stroll the storied harbor promenade, discover Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid, lush parks, and maritime sculptures along the scenic Langelinie waterfront.
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.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
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.
Restaurant Schønnemann
0.3 km
Experience authentic Danish smørrebrød and century-old culinary tradition at Restaurant Schønnemann, a historic Copenhagen institution renowned for its iconic lunch culture.
Københavner Cafeen
0.3 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Krebsegaarden
0.3 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.
ferment, ramen izakaya
0.4 km
Intimate basement izakaya where fermentation, organic ingredients, and Nordic sensibility transform ramen and bao into deeply satisfying art.
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.
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.
Husmanns Vinstue
0.4 km
Classic smørrebrød, candles and aquavit in a historic Copenhagen cellar devoted entirely to the long, unhurried Danish lunch.
Dubrovnik Restaurant
0.5 km
Cosy Croatian tavern in Copenhagen’s inner city, serving generous grills and rustic Adriatic comfort food in a warm, wood‑panelled dining room.
Vækst
0.5 km
Greenhouse-style Nordic dining in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where seasonal vegetable-focused menus meet warm, softly lit interiors wrapped in lush foliage.
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.
Selma
0.5 km
Modern Nordic smørrebrød and craft beers in a cozy Copenhagen corner, where a Swedish chef turns the classic open sandwich into refined, Bib Gourmand–worthy plates.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Another nué
0.1 km
A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
Time's Up Vintage
0.1 km
Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
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
0.1 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.
Studio Arhoj
0.2 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.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.2 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Notre Dame
0.3 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
0.3 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
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.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.3 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.
Norse Store
0.3 km
Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
Quirky Lane
0.3 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
0.3 km
A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
& Other Stories
0.3 km
Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Wasteland
0.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
No Stress Bar
0.1 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.
Bar'Vin
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
The Jane
0.2 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.
The Globe Irish Pub
0.2 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in central Copenhagen, pouring serious beer and whiskey alongside hearty comfort food, sports screenings and cozy, hygge-tinged corners.
Strøm
0.2 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
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.
Gejser Bar
0.3 km
Craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine in Copenhagen's most welcoming sophisticated bar.
Bar7
0.3 km
Colorful multi-room cocktail lounge in Copenhagen’s old town, mixing bold interiors, inventive drinks and a 21+ late-night crowd over lounge beats and weekend energy.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Bootleggers
0.3 km
Cosy two‑floor craft beer cellar and speakeasy‑style cocktail bar by Torvehallerne, pouring rotating taps, classic drinks, burgers and bottomless popcorn.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
Floss Bar
0.4 km
Copenhagen's legendary dive bar: punk rock heritage, cheap beer, and authentic character until 2 AM.
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.
Charlie's Bar
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Arch
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
0.2 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Hive
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
La Terraza
0.3 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Rumors
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
0.3 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
0.3 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Chateau Motel
0.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Cosy Bar
0.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Dorsia
0.4 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
The Zoo
0.5 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Mini Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Zefside
0.6 km
Intimate cocktail den turned late-night dance spot, Zefside blends crafted drinks, DJ beats and canal-side charm in the heart of central Copenhagen.
Lusso
0.6 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
