The Lakes
Copenhagen's serene waterfront escape in vibrant Nørrebro—perfect for walks, reflection, and urban nature.
The Lakes is a scenic waterfront destination in Copenhagen's Nørrebro district, offering a peaceful urban escape with walking paths, green spaces, and views across interconnected water bodies. Located in the 2200 postal area, this popular attraction draws visitors seeking respite from the city's bustle while remaining within easy reach of cultural landmarks and dining options. The site is particularly beloved by locals and tourists alike for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
A brief summary to The Lakes in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen, København N, 2200, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the most peaceful experience and best light for photography, especially during golden hour when the water reflects warm tones.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and plan for at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the paths around the Lakes without rushing.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Nørrebro cafes and shops—the neighborhood's independent venues are within easy walking distance of the waterfront.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the experience varies significantly with season; winter offers solitude while summer brings vibrant community energy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Copenhagen Metro Line M1 or M2 toward Vanløse or Lufthavnen. Exit at Nørrebro Station (approximately 8-12 minutes from central Copenhagen depending on your starting point). From the station, the Lakes are a 5-10 minute walk north. Follow signs toward Nørrebrogade and then navigate toward the waterfront area. Single ticket costs approximately 24 DKK (3-4 EUR) for travel within Copenhagen zones.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Nørrebro area. Routes 5A, 16, and 42 stop near the Lakes. Journey time from central Copenhagen is typically 15-20 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. Single ticket costs approximately 24 DKK (3-4 EUR). Buses run frequently throughout the day with reduced service late evening.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen's extensive cycling infrastructure makes this an ideal option. Rent a bike from one of the city's bike-sharing systems (Bycyklen or similar) for approximately 30-80 DKK (4-11 EUR) per trip, or use a personal bicycle. The ride from central Copenhagen to the Lakes takes 10-15 minutes depending on your route. Dedicated cycle lanes connect most of the city to Nørrebro.
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Walking
From central Copenhagen (Rådhuspladsen area), the Lakes are approximately 2-2.5 km away, requiring a 25-35 minute walk depending on your pace and exact starting point. Head north through the city center, following signs toward Nørrebro. The walk itself passes through interesting neighborhoods and is manageable for most fitness levels, though comfortable shoes are essential.
The Lakes in Copenhagen location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Lakes in Copenhagen
A Tranquil Urban Oasis in Nørrebro
The Lakes represent one of Copenhagen's most cherished natural spaces, a series of interconnected water bodies that wind through the vibrant Nørrebro neighborhood. This scenic destination offers a striking contrast to the urban energy surrounding it, providing visitors with a peaceful retreat where they can walk, relax, and connect with nature without leaving the city. The area has become essential to the character of modern Copenhagen, serving as both a recreational hub and a symbol of the city's commitment to preserving green spaces within its dense urban fabric.Walking and Recreation Along the Water
The Lakes are best experienced on foot, with well-maintained walking paths that encircle the water and connect to surrounding neighborhoods. These paths attract joggers, cyclists, and leisurely strollers throughout the day, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. The waterfront promenades offer numerous spots to pause and take in the reflections of sky and buildings on the water's surface. During warmer months, the area becomes particularly lively, with people gathering on grassy banks and benches to enjoy the outdoors. The accessibility of these paths makes the Lakes an ideal destination for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.Seasonal Transformations and Natural Beauty
The character of the Lakes shifts dramatically with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. In spring and summer, the water reflects clear skies and surrounding greenery, while autumn brings rich colors to the trees lining the banks. Winter transforms the landscape into a quieter, more contemplative setting, though the paths remain accessible for those seeking solitude and reflection. The natural cycles of the water and vegetation create an ever-changing backdrop that encourages repeat visits and new discoveries with each season.Integration with Nørrebro's Cultural Landscape
The Lakes sit at the heart of Nørrebro, one of Copenhagen's most dynamic and culturally diverse neighborhoods. The waterfront serves as a natural gathering point that connects residents and visitors to the broader community. Nearby streets are lined with independent cafes, restaurants, vintage shops, and galleries that reflect the area's creative spirit. This integration means that a visit to the Lakes can easily extend into exploration of the surrounding neighborhood, making it a natural starting point for discovering Nørrebro's unique character and local culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkets Park
0.6 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
0.8 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
0.8 km
Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
The King's Garden
1.1 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.
The Tower Playground
1.1 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
Nørrebrogade
1.1 km
Copenhagen's creative heartbeat: independent design, multicultural energy, and authentic Nordic cool.
Church of Our Lady
1.1 km
Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
Nørrebro
1.2 km
Copenhagen's most vibrant multicultural neighbourhood where creative energy, street culture, and authentic local life converge.
Varehuset Messen
1.2 km
A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Gammeltorv
1.2 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.
Gråbrødretorv
1.2 km
Medieval square in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter where historic architecture, local cafés, and bohemian charm converge.
Jorcks Passage
1.2 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Nytorv 2
1.3 km
Where Copenhagen’s Neoclassical courthouse meets a centuries-old market square, blending solemn civic history with the everyday buzz of the old city.
Nytorv
1.3 km
Historic domed observatory in Aarhus offering inspiring stargazing nights, public tours, and a glimpse into Denmark’s astronomical history atop a leafy city hill.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
1.3 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
Søtorvet 2
0.1 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
0.1 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.
Nørrebros Theater
0.1 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
0.2 km
Innovative cocktails and cozy ambiance in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Sankt Hans Torv
0.3 km
A relaxed, café-lined square in the heart of Nørrebro where church spires, classic façades and everyday streetlife capture contemporary Copenhagen.
Workers Museum
0.5 km
Step into Copenhagen’s historic Workers’ Assembly Hall and trace 150 years of working-class life, from cramped attic flats and factory floors to activism, cafés and children’s play.
TorvehallerneKBH
0.6 km
Copenhagen’s glass‑walled food market, where Nordic produce, global flavours and local craftsmanship meet in two buzzing halls beside Nørreport Station.
Copenhagen Food Tours - Best-Rated Experiences
0.6 km
Explore Denmark's labor history at The Workers Museum in Copenhagen's historic Workers' Assembly Hall.
The Danish Natural History Museum
0.7 km
University-based museum of geology, zoology, and botany set beside Copenhagen’s Botanical Garden, linking scientific collections with the living world outside.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.7 km
Heritage 19th‑century walls meet modern apartment comfort in a buzzing, hyper‑central corner of Copenhagen’s historic inner city.
Botanical Garden
0.7 km
Explore Denmark's royal heritage at Rosenborg Castle, home to the crown jewels and set amidst the historic King's Garden in Copenhagen.
Tropical Bikes
0.8 km
Explore Copenhagen's cycling culture with Tropical Bikes' diverse rental options and guided tours.
Ørstedsparken
0.8 km
Historic city ramparts reborn as a lakeside green refuge, where playgrounds, sculptures and café culture meet everyday Copenhagen life in the heart of Indre By.
Museum of Natural History
0.8 km
Copenhagen’s national museum for nature, where meteorites, minerals and living gardens connect deep time with the city’s green heart beside the Botanical Garden.
Skaal
0.9 km
A visionary concert hall in Copenhagen, DR Koncerthuset fuses world-class acoustics, avant-garde architecture, and a rich tapestry of live music experiences.
Essential places to dine
SAFARI
0.3 km
Colorful Pan-African bistro in creative Nørrebro serving bold sharable plates, natural wines, and community spirit in a welcoming, art-filled setting.
La Neta Nørrebro
0.3 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
0.3 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.
Mæxico Nørrebro
0.4 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.
ARK
0.4 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.
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.
Høst
0.5 km
Experience exceptional Scandinavian fine dining at Høst in Copenhagen, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Hooked Nørrebro
0.6 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Hooked Nørrebro in Copenhagen - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Kiin Kiin
0.6 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
0.6 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.
Bæst
0.7 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Gaarden & Gaden
0.9 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Tèrra
0.9 km
Celebrated for organic Italian-Danish tasting menus and eco-conscious fine dining, Tèrra offers a memorable culinary experience in Copenhagen’s vibrant Østerbro.
Restaurant Radio
0.9 km
Seasonal Nordic fine dining with Michelin recognition, where great taste and genuine hospitality meet accessible excellence.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.9 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Butik Bungalow
0.1 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
McKorman
0.2 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
PRAG Nørrebro
0.4 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Exotic Mix
0.6 km
Gourmet nuts, dried fruits and chocolate dragées from around the world, served from a colourful family‑run stall inside Copenhagen’s Torvehallerne market.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.8 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Fjällräven
0.9 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.
Souvenir Gifts shop
1.0 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.
Time's Up Vintage
1.0 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
1.0 km
A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
København K
1.1 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.
Quirky Lane
1.1 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Wasteland
1.1 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.
Studio Arhoj
1.1 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.
Notre Dame
1.1 km
A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Carmen Copenhagen
1.2 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
Kind Of Blue
0.1 km
Discover the lively charm of Kind Of Blue, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen offering creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Barking Dog
0.2 km
Discover The Barking Dog, a trendy bar in Copenhagen offering expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant nightlife experience.
Escobar København
0.3 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.
Harbo Bar
0.3 km
Cosy, candlelit café‑bar on Blågårdsgade blending daytime coffee and snacks with intimate, bohemian evenings at the heart of Copenhagen’s Nørrebro district.
Léanowski Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Léanowski Bar, a local favorite in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, known for its craft beers and creative cocktails.
PULP bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at PULP Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Ølbaren
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Copenhagen’s beer culture at Ølbaren, a cozy bar with an extensive selection of craft brews and vibrant atmosphere.
The Mudhoney
0.6 km
Discover The Mudhoney, a stylish cocktail bar in Copenhagen, blending coffee shop charm with expertly crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.
Bootleggers
0.6 km
Cosy two‑floor craft beer cellar and speakeasy‑style cocktail bar by Torvehallerne, pouring rotating taps, classic drinks, burgers and bottomless popcorn.
BRUS
0.7 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Dexter's
0.7 km
A cosy African–Caribbean rum bar by Copenhagen’s lakes, blending tropical cocktails, Afro-Caribbean rhythms and warm Jamaican hospitality in an intimate setting.
Ørsted Ølbar
0.7 km
Cozy basement craft-beer bar opposite Ørstedsparken, mixing candlelit pub charm, expert pours and an impressive Danish microbrew lineup in central Copenhagen.
Himmeriget
0.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite drink selection at Himmeriget, a premier bar in Frederiksberg, perfect for socializing and relaxation.
Paloma Vermuteria
0.8 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
The Globe Irish Pub
0.8 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in central Copenhagen, pouring serious beer and whiskey alongside hearty comfort food, sports screenings and cozy, hygge-tinged corners.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
RUST Natklub
0.5 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
0.5 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Moon Club
0.7 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Mirage
0.8 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
La Terraza
1.1 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Cosy Bar
1.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Rumors
1.2 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
1.2 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
1.2 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
1.2 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Dorsia
1.3 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Culture Box
1.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Chateau Motel
1.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
