Assistens Cemetery (Assistens Kirkegård), Nørrebro
Historic resting place turned leafy city park, Assistens Cemetery weaves famous graves, everyday life and tranquil greenery into Nørrebro’s most distinctive urban oasis.
Assistens Cemetery in Nørrebro is Copenhagen’s most famous graveyard and a leafy urban oasis. Laid out in the mid‑18th century as a relief cemetery beyond the old city walls, it is now both a historic burial ground and the main green space of the district. Beneath avenues of old trees lie some of Denmark’s best‑known figures, including Hans Christian Andersen, Søren Kierkegaard and Niels Bohr, while locals use the winding paths and lawns for quiet walks, reading and low‑key picnics.
A brief summary to Assistens Cemetery
- Kapelvej 2, Nørrebro, Nørrebro, 2200, DK
- +4533669100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Pick up a simple map of notable graves beforehand or save one offline; it makes finding Andersen, Kierkegaard and Bohr much easier in the maze of sections.
- Visit on a weekday morning or late afternoon for the quietest atmosphere, when the main paths are less busy and birdlife is most noticeable.
- Wear comfortable shoes suited to gravel paths and occasional uneven ground, especially if you plan to wander beyond the main avenues.
- Treat the grounds as both park and burial place: low voices, no loud music and keep picnics discreet and away from newer graves.
- In autumn and spring, bring a light layer and perhaps a thermos; the open paths can feel cooler than the surrounding streets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Metro from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the M3 Cityringen metro to Nørrebros Runddel station; the ride typically takes 5–10 minutes with frequent departures throughout the day. A standard single ticket within the inner zones usually costs around 20–30 DKK, or you can tap in with a travel card. From the station it is a short, well‑signed walk along main roads on flat pavement, suitable for wheelchairs and prams in most weather.
-
City bus via Nørrebrogade
Several city bus lines run along Nørrebrogade between the historic centre and Nørrebro, with journeys of roughly 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay about 20–30 DKK for a single zone‑based ticket, available via ticket machines or travel cards. Buses are low‑floor and generally accessible, though they can be crowded at rush hour, so allow extra time if travelling with luggage or a stroller.
-
Cycling from the inner city
Cycling from the inner city to Nørrebro usually takes 10–20 minutes along Copenhagen’s extensive network of segregated bike lanes. The route is mostly flat and straightforward, but can be busy at peak commuting times. If you rent a bike, expect typical daily rental prices of around 100–150 DKK depending on the provider. Helmets are not mandatory but recommended, and you should be comfortable riding in dense bicycle traffic.
-
Walking from Nørreport area
From the broader Nørreport area, a walk to the cemetery typically takes 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace. The route follows major streets with wide pavements and gentle gradients, making it manageable for most visitors. Surfaces are generally smooth, although crossings can be busy, so allow extra time if you prefer slower, more cautious walking. This option is free and offers a good sense of the transition from central city to Nørrebro.
Assistens Cemetery location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Clear Skies
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about Assistens Cemetery
An 18th‑Century Cemetery at the Edge of Old Copenhagen
Assistens Cemetery was established in the mid‑18th century, when Copenhagen’s inner churchyards were overwhelmed after epidemics and rapid population growth. Conceived as an “assisting” cemetery outside the city limits, it initially served mainly as a burial ground for poorer residents who could not afford plots in central churchyards. Over time, as the city expanded, Nørrebro grew up around it, and this once peripheral graveyard became enveloped by the urban fabric. The oldest section, near the main entrance on Kapelvej, still hints at those early years, with modest headstones, crooked paths and mature trees that now tower over the graves. Walking here gives you a sense of how far the city has stretched since the cemetery was consecrated, when this was considered a distant rural outpost.From Paupers’ Ground to National Pantheon
In the late 18th century Assistens began to change character. When prominent officials and intellectuals chose to be buried here, it gradually transformed from a humble burial ground into a fashionable resting place for the city’s elite. The cemetery evolved into a kind of national pantheon, where the stories of Denmark’s cultural and scientific life are written in stone. Many visitors come specifically to seek out the graves of writer Hans Christian Andersen, philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, and Nobel‑prize‑winning physicist Niels Bohr. Their plots are scattered across different sections, so exploring becomes a gentle treasure hunt through thickets of ivy, family tombs and understated slabs bearing famous names. Alongside these well‑known figures are thousands of lesser‑known craftsmen, merchants, activists and families, their memorials together forming an informal archive of Danish society across more than two and a half centuries.A Green Oasis in the Heart of Nørrebro
Today Assistens Cemetery is just as much a park as a graveyard. High canopies of lime, maple and chestnut trees create dappled light in summer and fiery colour in autumn, while birdsong softens the hum of the surrounding city. Wide main paths intersect with narrow, almost secret lanes, encouraging slow wandering rather than hurried transit. For residents of Nørrebro, this is a daily breathing space: people stroll with prams, read on benches, or pause with a takeaway coffee on the grass between old plots. In snow it becomes a muffled, monochrome landscape where sculptures and iron crosses stand out sharply; in spring, bulbs and shrubs bring unexpected patches of colour to the otherwise muted palette of stone and moss.Stories, Symbols and Quiet Discoveries
Look closely at the gravestones and you will spot changing fashions in language, typography and symbolism. Early stones feature baroque flourishes and long, formal inscriptions, while 19th‑century monuments might carry classical columns, weeping willows or angels. More recent markers are often simpler, with polished granite, clean lines and minimal text, reflecting modern Danish design sensibilities. Scattered among them are intriguing details: family plots that chart multiple generations, weathered carvings half‑claimed by lichen, and occasional contemporary interventions such as poetic epitaphs or unusual materials. The cemetery is divided into sections that historically served different congregations and communities, including areas dedicated to religious minorities, giving a sense of the city’s layered diversity.Sharing Space Between Remembrance and Everyday Life
What makes Assistens distinctive is the way memorial and everyday use coexist. It is common to see cyclists cutting through on their way across Nørrebro, children learning to ride along the main avenues, or small groups quietly picnicking on the grass. Official guidelines encourage respectful behaviour, and there is an unspoken etiquette: music kept low, activities subdued, an awareness that every path passes close to someone’s resting place. This gentle blending of functions has turned the cemetery into a kind of outdoor living room for the district, reinforcing a character that is contemplative rather than gloomy. Time here tends to slow down. Even a short visit offers a chance to reflect on history, observe local life and experience a distinctly Danish approach to the relationship between the living and the dead.Planning a Thoughtful Visit
Assistens Cemetery is enclosed but spacious, with multiple gates along its perimeter and clear main routes that make it easy to navigate. Opening hours vary by season but generally cover daylight, encouraging unhurried exploration rather than rushed sightseeing. There are information boards near key entrances, and some of the most famous graves are signposted inside the grounds. The terrain is mostly flat and composed of well‑maintained gravel and paved paths, making it accessible for most visitors, including those using wheelchairs or prams, although occasional side paths can be uneven. There is no admission fee, and you do not need special equipment or bookings to explore. A slow circuit of the main avenues and a detour to a few notable graves offer a rewarding introduction, while those with more time can linger in quieter corners where only the rustle of leaves and distant city sounds accompany the view of weathered stones.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkets Park
0.5 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
0.7 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
The Red Square
1.1 km
A striking, modern city square in Nørrebro, where bold Danish design meets global cultures, street art, and vibrant local life in Copenhagen’s most diverse borough.
The Tower Playground
1.4 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
Fælledparken
1.6 km
Copenhagen’s largest and most beloved city park, Fælledparken offers a dynamic blend of green tranquility, local culture, sports, and major city events in Østerbro.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
1.7 km
Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Fiolstræde 42
1.7 km
Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
Kultorvet
1.8 km
Kultorvet is a historic cobbled square in Copenhagen’s city center, where centuries-old traditions blend with modern café culture, street performances, and community gatherings.
Rosenborg Castle
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen, a historic gem showcasing royal treasures and serene gardens.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
1.8 km
Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.
Church of Our Lady
1.9 km
Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
The Round Tower
1.9 km
Explore The Round Tower, Copenhagen's historic observatory offering stunning city views and engaging cultural exhibitions.
The King's Garden
2.0 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.
Gammeltorv
2.0 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.
Møstings Hus
2.0 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hans Tavsens Park
0.2 km
Frederiksholms Kanal offers atmospheric views, grand architecture, and a unique window into Copenhagen’s history at the heart of Indre By.
Nørrebrogade
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s multicultural main street in Nørrebro, where bike lanes, shawarma bars, design shops and everyday life flow together from the lakes to Nørrebro Station.
Nørrebro
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s multicultural heartbeat: dense streets of bikes, cafés, street art and green pockets where everyday life and global influences mingle effortlessly.
Jægersborggade
0.4 km
A short, cobbled street in Nørrebro where craft studios, bold kitchens and cozy cafés turn a former backstreet into a compact showcase of modern Copenhagen life.
Nørrebroparken - Playground
0.6 km
Imaginative airplane-and-shipwreck playground at the heart of Nørrebro’s green park strip, blending bold Danish design with family-friendly facilities and local everyday life.
Sankt Hans Torv
0.7 km
Frederiksholms Kanal is Copenhagen’s storied canal, bordered by splendid historic buildings, major landmarks, and tranquil waterside paths in Indre By.
Nørrebros Theater
0.8 km
Historic 1886 theatre turned contemporary cultural hub, blending bold performances, visual art and neighbourhood atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen’s Nørrebro district.
The Lakes in Copenhagen
0.9 km
Step inside Denmark’s royal history at Rosenborg Castle, home to the dazzling Crown Jewels and set in Copenhagen’s oldest public gardens near Østerbro.
Bananna Park
1.0 km
A bold slice of urban creativity in Nørrebro, where a giant yellow banana, climbing walls and street art turn a former wasteland into Copenhagen’s most playful pocket park.
Søtorvet 2
1.0 km
An ornate 19th‑century lakeside residence where French‑inspired façades, poetic café lore and everyday Copenhagen life meet at the city’s watery front door.
Dronning Louises Bro
1.0 km
Copenhagen’s granite social bridge, arching over the city lakes with historic elegance, everyday bike traffic and some of the best urban sunsets in town.
Superkilen Park
1.0 km
Superkilen Park in Nørrebro is an award-winning urban park celebrating global diversity with bold design, eclectic art, and interactive spaces from around the world.
Tropical Bikes
1.1 km
Explore Copenhagen's cycling culture with Tropical Bikes' diverse rental options and guided tours.
The Lakes
1.1 km
Innovative cocktails and cozy ambiance in Copenhagen's historic heart.
The Black Square
1.2 km
A tranquil Copenhagen canal surrounded by palaces, museums, bridges, and centuries of Danish royal history in the heart of the Indre By district.
Essential places to dine
Gaarden & Gaden
0.2 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Street Food 108
0.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Street Food 108 in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district - a delightful taste adventure awaits!
Hooked Nørrebro
0.3 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Hooked Nørrebro in Copenhagen - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Bæst
0.4 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Kiin Kiin
0.5 km
Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in Copenhagen’s Nørrebro, offering inventive tasting menus and modern fine dining that blend Southeast Asian flavors with Nordic influences.
Aroii - Nørrebro
0.5 km
Savor inventive Asian fusion cuisine in lively Nørrebro, where Aroii delivers creative Thai-inspired plates and vibrant ambiance in one of Copenhagen’s buzziest districts.
JATAK
0.5 km
Intimate Nørrebro dining where New Nordic produce meets the bold, personal Asian flavors of chef Jonathan Tam in a calm, minimalist Michelin-starred setting.
Mæxico Nørrebro
0.6 km
Colorful cantina vibes, creative tacos, and festive cocktails bring a lively taste of Mexico’s street food culture to vibrant Nørrebro in central Copenhagen.
La Neta Nørrebro
0.6 km
Sizzling Mexican street food, artisanal tortillas, and Mikkeller craft beer unite at La Neta Nørrebro—a bustling culinary hotspot in Copenhagen’s vibrant heart.
Kate's Joint
0.7 km
Kate’s Joint brings Nørrebro’s multicultural energy to the table with creative Asian fusion, communal dining, artful interiors, and a famously laid-back vibe.
SAFARI
0.8 km
Colorful Pan-African bistro in creative Nørrebro serving bold sharable plates, natural wines, and community spirit in a welcoming, art-filled setting.
Restaurant Radio
1.0 km
Seasonal Nordic fine dining with Michelin recognition, where great taste and genuine hospitality meet accessible excellence.
ARK
1.3 km
Michelin Green Star vegan fine dining in central Copenhagen, where seasonal Nordic produce, foraging and low-waste philosophy shape an intimate tasting-menu experience.
Høst
1.3 km
Experience exceptional Scandinavian fine dining at Høst in Copenhagen, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Tèrra
1.3 km
Celebrated for organic Italian-Danish tasting menus and eco-conscious fine dining, Tèrra offers a memorable culinary experience in Copenhagen’s vibrant Østerbro.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
PRAG Nørrebro
0.5 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
0.5 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.
McKorman
0.8 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Butik Bungalow
0.8 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
Exotic Mix
1.5 km
Gourmet nuts, dried fruits and chocolate dragées from around the world, served from a colourful family‑run stall inside Copenhagen’s Torvehallerne market.
Frederiksberg Centret
1.5 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.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
1.7 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Fjällräven
1.8 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.
København K
1.8 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.
Souvenir Gifts shop
1.8 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.
Wasteland
1.8 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
1.8 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Time's Up Vintage
1.9 km
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
1.9 km
A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
Carmen Copenhagen
1.9 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Skovbar
0.3 km
Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.
BRUS
0.4 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Paloma Vermuteria
0.4 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
Klovnens Bodega
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
The Mudhoney
0.5 km
Discover The Mudhoney, a stylish cocktail bar in Copenhagen, blending coffee shop charm with expertly crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.
Ølbaren
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Copenhagen’s beer culture at Ølbaren, a cozy bar with an extensive selection of craft brews and vibrant atmosphere.
Léanowski Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Léanowski Bar, a local favorite in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, known for its craft beers and creative cocktails.
PULP bar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at PULP Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Harbo Bar
0.7 km
Cosy, candlelit café‑bar on Blågårdsgade blending daytime coffee and snacks with intimate, bohemian evenings at the heart of Copenhagen’s Nørrebro district.
Escobar København
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Escobar København, a must-visit bar in the heart of Nørrebro offering great cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
Himmeriget
0.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite drink selection at Himmeriget, a premier bar in Frederiksberg, perfect for socializing and relaxation.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
0.7 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
Gamble
0.8 km
An intimate Frederiksberg speakeasy where conversation, jazz and bespoke cocktails come together in a candlelit, retro-tinged corner of Copenhagen’s bar scene.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer, where craft beers and fine whiskies await in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Barking Dog
0.8 km
Discover The Barking Dog, a trendy bar in Copenhagen offering expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant nightlife experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Temple Bar
0.4 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
RUST Natklub
0.6 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Moon Club
1.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Falafelberg
1.4 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
SIGURD CPH
1.4 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
1.5 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Mirage
1.7 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Cosy Bar
1.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Den Anden Side
1.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
La Terraza
1.9 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
1.9 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Never Mind
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Rumors
1.9 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
1.9 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
