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.
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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Vandkunsten Springvand
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nytorv
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Historic domed observatory in Aarhus offering inspiring stargazing nights, public tours, and a glimpse into Denmark’s astronomical history atop a leafy city hill.
Nytorv 2
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Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter blends medieval lanes, bohemian charm, vibrant cafés, and local boutiques, making it the creative soul of Denmark’s second-largest city.
Lur Blowers
0.3 km
Aarhus University Park: Where Danish architectural elegance meets lush urban nature, offering tranquil lakes, stately trees, and a vibrant academic atmosphere.
Gammeltorv
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Discover Copenhagen's only Russian Orthodox Church, renowned for its gilded domes, lavish icons, and evocative ties to Denmark's royal and multicultural heritage.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.3 km
Explore Denmark's industrial past at Industrimuseet in Horsens, an interactive museum with working machines, workshops, and personal stories from Denmark's iron and steam era.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
0.3 km
Discover 'Heracles and the Hydra'—a captivating modern sculpture that unites Greek mythology and Danish artistry beside historic Kronborg Castle in Helsingør.
Amagertorv
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Aarhus’s University Park blends Danish modernist architecture, lush gardens, and student life into one of the city’s most tranquil and historically significant green spaces.
The Danish Parliament
0.4 km
Experience Skagen’s rich maritime and industrial heritage, with vintage engines, interactive exhibits, and a harbor-inspired café in a welcoming community setting.
Højbro
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Aarhus University Park: Where world-renowned academic heritage, Danish modernism, and lush green landscapes meet in the heart of Aarhus for a uniquely peaceful escape.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.4 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
The War Museum
0.4 km
Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
Højbro Pl.
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Step inside the Ole Rømer Observatory in Aarhus for immersive astronomy, captivating night sky sessions, and an Art Nouveau landmark with Danish scientific heritage.
The Stable Boy's House
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Historic seat of Danish royalty and government, Christiansborg Palace dazzles with royal halls, ancient ruins, stables, and unmatched views in central Copenhagen.
Frederik VII
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Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Søren Aabye Kierkegaard by Louis Hasselriis
0.5 km
Explore Denmark's industrial evolution at Horsens' Industrimuseet, featuring authentic exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Magstræde
0.1 km
Historic Belle Époque theatre in Vesterbro, famed for grand musicals and classical architecture, blending Danish cultural heritage with world-class stage productions.
Weirdwalks Byvandring
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Stroll the storied harbor promenade, discover Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid, lush parks, and maritime sculptures along the scenic Langelinie waterfront.
National Museum of Denmark
0.2 km
Uncover centuries-old secrets and wild beauty at Søborg Slotsruin, North Zealand’s evocative medieval castle ruin set in tranquil Danish countryside.
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours
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Discover masterpieces from the Danish Golden Age and European classics to contemporary art in Denmark’s largest art museum, set by Copenhagen’s serene city park.
Rainbow Square
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Discover Malmö’s Teknikens och Sjöfartens hus, where hands-on science, classic vehicles, and real-life maritime history combine for an unforgettable museum adventure.
Marmorbroen
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Explore Langelinie: Copenhagen's historic waterfront promenade featuring iconic landmarks, scenic views, and vibrant cultural attractions.
Museum of Copenhagen
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Stroll Copenhagen's historic Langelinie promenade for iconic harbor views, gardens, maritime heritage, and the famous Little Mermaid statue along the waterfront.
Jens Olsen's World Clock
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Descend beneath Søndermarken Park to discover Copenhagen’s historic water cisterns, now transformed into a mesmerizing underground art museum unlike any other in Denmark.
Frederiksholms Kanal
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Discover over 4,000 animals and world-class exhibits in one of Europe’s oldest and most innovative zoos, blending Danish tradition with modern wildlife experiences.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
0.3 km
A world-famous museum of the bizarre and extraordinary, Ripley's Believe It or Not! offers interactive exhibits and fascinating oddities in central Copenhagen.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.3 km
A kaleidoscope of oddities, illusions, and interactive exhibits in the center of Copenhagen, perfect for fans of the strange and curious.
Hans Christian Andersen Experience
0.3 km
Expansive city beach in Malmö, featuring shallow waters, Nordic bathhouse experiences, lush promenades, and panoramic views of the Öresund Bridge and Turning Torso.
Copenhagen City Hall
0.3 km
An awe-inspiring mythological fountain where Norse legend meets Copenhagen’s vibrant cityscape, offering a scenic and legendary gateway to the capital’s green spaces.
Gammel Strand
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Denmark's stately national gallery with masterpieces from the Renaissance to modern art, housed in a striking blend of classical and contemporary architecture in Copenhagen.
City Hall Square
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Explore over 3,000 animals in historic enclosures at Copenhagen Zoo, a blend of wildlife conservation and architectural innovation in Frederiksberg.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Puk
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Discover the essence of Danish cuisine at Restaurant Puk in Copenhagen – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Restaurant 1733
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Historic canal-side setting in Copenhagen’s center serving creative Danish classics and regional specialties with genuine hygge and a modern twist.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.2 km
Discover authentic Danish smørrebrød and timeless hospitality in a centuries-old cellar, set in the historic heart of Copenhagen’s lively city center.
Marv & Ben
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Discover Marv & Ben: A premier destination for fine Danish dining blending tradition with modernity in the heart of Copenhagen.
Københavner Cafeen
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Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Københavner Cafeen – a cozy spot in Copenhagen's heart offering delicious meals for every palate.
Restaurant Tight
0.3 km
Discover creative dishes and exceptional service at Restaurant Tight in Copenhagen’s Indre By district.
Restaurant Karla
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Century-old Danish restaurant serving beloved classics and authentic smørrebrød in the heart of Copenhagen, steps from major museums and city attractions.
Husmanns Vinstue
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Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Husmanns Vinstue in Copenhagen – where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
Krebsegaarden
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Discover Krebsegaarden: A premier seafood restaurant in Copenhagen offering exquisite dishes in a charming atmosphere.
Restaurant Noi
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Discover the fusion of modern and traditional Danish flavors at Restaurant Noi in Copenhagen's vibrant culinary scene.
Wining and Dining
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Experience the essence of Danish cuisine at Wining and Dining in Copenhagen - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Det Lille Apotek
0.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Det Lille Apotek in Copenhagen - a perfect blend of tradition and flavor.
Spisestedet FEED
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Discover exquisite flavors and an inviting atmosphere at Spisestedet FEED in the heart of København.
Restaurant Maven
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Atmospheric Danish restaurant inside Copenhagen’s historic Nikolaj Church—offering modern Nordic cuisine, inventive wines, and a setting rich in cultural heritage.
Vækst
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Experience modern European cuisine at Vækst - where fresh ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry in Copenhagen's vibrant Indre By.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Viking Souvenirs
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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.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
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Nestled on a lively Copenhagen shopping street, Det Gamle Apotek enchants visitors with nostalgic Danish gifts, festive decor, and whimsical home accessories year-round.
Strøget
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Strøget is Copenhagen’s vibrant pedestrian heart—Europe’s original walking street, lined with shops, cafés, historic facades, and street performers.
Læderstræde
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Læderstræde is a historic pedestrian street in central Copenhagen, offering a blend of independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and authentic Danish ambiance year-round.
Quirky Lane
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Discover unique vintage treasures at Quirky Lane, Copenhagen's eclectic boutique for sustainable fashion enthusiasts.
Wasteland
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Discover unique vintage fashion treasures at Wasteland in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
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Explore Danish history and craftsmanship at Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store, an iconic destination for hand-painted porcelain, elegant collectibles, and Nordic design.
Studio Arhoj
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Studio Arhoj fuses Scandinavian and Japanese influences into vibrant, hand-crafted ceramics, making it a unique design destination in central Copenhagen.
Tivoli Gift Shop
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Discover unique souvenirs and Danish crafts at the Tivoli Gift Shop, capturing the magic of Copenhagen's historic amusement park.
ILLUM
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ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Time's Up Vintage
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Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
Magasin du Nord
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Experience Danish elegance, international fashion, and gourmet food in Copenhagen’s historic Magasin du Nord—an iconic department store blending tradition and style since 1894.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
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A stylish Vesterbro boutique filled with curated Nordic fashion, contemporary gifts, and Danish design treasures for visitors seeking authentic Copenhagen keepsakes.
Storm - design art fashion
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Avant-garde design, progressive fashion, niche perfume, and rare art books unite at Copenhagen’s Storm—an iconic concept store in the city’s creative core.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
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Henrik Vibskov Boutique: Explore boundary-pushing Danish design and avant-garde fashion in a gallery-inspired setting in central Copenhagen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Godt Øl
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Discover a welcoming cellar sanctuary for craft beer enthusiasts in Copenhagen, offering expertly curated Danish and international selections in a cozy, sociable atmosphere.
Southern Cross Pub
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Discover the lively Southern Cross Pub, a charming sports bar in Copenhagen, perfect for sports enthusiasts and social gatherings.
not your USUAL wine bar
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A welcoming, eclectic Copenhagen wine bar dedicated to natural wines, lively hygge, and curated experiences for curious locals and travelers.
Taphouse
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Enjoy Copenhagen’s widest choice of craft beers and lively bar culture, all in the inviting, convivial atmosphere of Taphouse—Denmark’s draft beer destination.
Ruby
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Ruby is Copenhagen’s iconic cocktail bar, where historic townhouse charm meets world-class mixology in a uniquely atmospheric setting near the city’s heart.
The Rooftop Bar
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Experience panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere at The Rooftop Bar atop Hotel Danmark in Copenhagen.
The Storm Inn Copenhagen
0.2 km
Experience the warmth of The Storm Inn in Copenhagen, a cozy pub offering a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Musen & Elefanten
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Discover true Danish hygge and vintage bar culture at Musen & Elefanten, a local favorite nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s vibrant Latin Quarter.
Floss Bar
0.4 km
Historic LGBTQ+ bar in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter blending warm hospitality, affordable drinks, and eclectic locals in a welcoming, community-driven setting.
Luke's Bar
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Luke’s Bar is a beloved vintage-inspired haunt in Copenhagen’s Indre By, celebrated for creative cocktails, retro ambience, and welcoming, quirky bartenders.
The Dubliner
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Classic Irish pub atmosphere with live music, hearty food, sports broadcasts, and local camaraderie on lively Amagertorv square in central Copenhagen.
K-Bar
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Leading Copenhagen’s cocktail revolution, K-Bar blends innovative mixology, Scandinavian style, and canal-side ambiance for an unforgettable urban bar experience.
Strøm
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Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
