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Islands Brygge: Copenhagen’s Urban Riverside Playground

Experience Copenhagen’s blend of urban cool and waterside relaxation at Islands Brygge, where harbor views, bathing, and local life come together in a thriving central district.

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Islands Brygge is a vibrant waterfront district in central Copenhagen that has evolved from a gritty port area into one of the city’s most popular leisure and recreation spots. With expansive lawns, iconic harbor baths, and panoramic views of the cityscape, this lively thoroughfare buzzes with locals and visitors soaking up Danish summer vibes, urban culture, and the tranquil charm of waterside life.

A brief summary to Vandkunsten Springvand

  • Vandkunsten 8, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1467, DK
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a towel and swimsuit—summer swimming in the harbor is free and a local favorite.
  • In good weather, arrive early to secure a spot on the lawns or harbor edge.
  • Explore nearby food trucks and cafés for excellent coffee, craft beer, and eclectic street food.
  • Look out for seasonal festivals and pop-up markets, especially during weekends.
  • Evenings offer a picturesque, less crowded setting for harbourfront strolls and sunset views.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Køge, travelers can reach Islands Brygge via regional train to Copenhagen Central Station, followed by a short metro ride or city bus towards the waterfront. The final segment offers a clear view of the harbor and high-rise silhouettes as you approach. Total journey time is about 1 hour, with a combined ticket costing around 84–96 DKK for adults. Copenhagen's public transport is frequent and integrated, making connections straightforward. Check ticket zones and be aware that metro access is step-free for those with mobility concerns.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Køge to Islands Brygge provides a relaxed, direct route into the heart of Copenhagen, passing several recognizable city landmarks as you enter the urban core. The trip generally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic, and costs typically range from 900–1200 DKK. Drop-offs are close to the water, but parking in the immediate area is limited and usually metered.

  • Driving

    Driving from Køge, visitors will head towards inner Copenhagen and can navigate to the Islands Brygge district by following signs for central city and harbor areas. There are public car parks nearby, but expect limited space and fees of 24–38 DKK per hour. The area can be busy during summer weekends and events, making early arrival advisable.

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Discover more about Vandkunsten Springvand

Set along the southern banks of Copenhagen’s harbor, Islands Brygge is both a street and a dynamic district renowned for its transformation from an industrial shipyard to a buzzing urban oasis. The area’s centerpiece is the Islands Brygge Harbour Bath, an architectural gem where bathers plunge into clean harbor waters surrounded by modern city skylines and converted warehouses that hint at the site’s former life. From late spring through summer, lawns are dotted with sunseekers and picnic blankets, and the harborside boardwalk becomes a stage for impromptu concerts, street performances, and café culture. Local food trucks, laid-back eateries, and independent coffee shops line the main promenade, offering everything from organic ice cream to artisan pastries. Historic bridges frame the view across the water towards downtown Copenhagen, while architectural contrasts—from humble early 20th-century buildings to striking new glass towers—tell the story of the city’s ongoing renewal. After its redevelopment, Islands Brygge has blossomed into a social hub for all ages. Children splash at the paddling pools, friends gather for open-air yoga, and kayakers glide past houseboats and moored sailboats. Throughout the year, the area hosts pop-up events, flea markets, and the annual Copenhagen Pride parade, reinforcing its status as a key part of the city’s cultural fabric. Despite its popularity, Islands Brygge retains a relaxed, neighborhood feeling where travelers can mingle with locals or simply unwind and watch the world drift by.

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