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Cykelslangen: Copenhagen's Bicycle Serpent

Experience Copenhagen's iconic Cykelslangen, a vibrant orange cycle bridge offering a unique and scenic route through the harbor, showcasing the city's commitment to cycling and innovative design.

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Cykelslangen, or the Bicycle Snake, is an iconic elevated cycle bridge in Copenhagen, Denmark. Opened in 2014, this bright orange bridge gracefully winds its way through the harborfront, offering cyclists a dedicated and visually striking route between Vesterbro and Islands Brygge. Designed by Dissing+Weitling, the 220-meter-long bridge provides a smooth and safe passage, separating cyclists from pedestrians and eliminating the need to navigate stairs. More than just a functional piece of infrastructure, Cykelslangen has become a symbol of Copenhagen's commitment to cycling culture and innovative urban design, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Its snakelike form and vibrant color make it a distinctive landmark and a must-see for anyone exploring the city on two wheels or simply admiring its unique architecture. The bridge exemplifies Copenhagen's dedication to green mobility and creating enjoyable, efficient spaces for its cycling community, solidifying its reputation as one of the world's most bicycle-friendly cities.

A brief summary to Cykelslangen

  • Cykelslangen, Vesterbro/Kongens Enghave, Vesterbro/Kongens Enghave, 1560, DK

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the bridge with a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Rent a bike to fully experience Cykelslangen as intended and explore the surrounding Vesterbro and Islands Brygge neighborhoods.
  • Take photos from the bridge for unique perspectives of the Copenhagen harbor and city skyline.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Vesterport Station, walk west for approximately 10 minutes. Cykelslangen will become visible as you approach the harbor area near the Fisketorvet shopping center. Follow the signs directing you towards the bridge entrance. The walk is straightforward and offers views of the surrounding city.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus 34 to the Fisketorvet Shopping Centre stop. From there, Cykelslangen is a short walk. The bus stop is conveniently located near the bridge entrance, making it an easy transfer. A single bus fare within Copenhagen typically costs around 24 DKK.

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Discover more about Cykelslangen

Cykelslangen, Danish for "Bicycle Snake," is more than just a bridge; it's a statement. A statement about Copenhagen's unwavering commitment to cycling, its innovative approach to urban design, and its dedication to creating a city that prioritizes people-powered transportation. Opened in the summer of 2014, this distinctive bright orange structure has quickly become one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, a symbol of Copenhagen's vibrant cycling culture. Before Cykelslangen, cyclists traveling between Vesterbro and Islands Brygge faced a less-than-ideal route. They had to dismount and navigate a staircase alongside the busy Fisketorvet shopping center, sharing the limited space with pedestrians. This created congestion and inconvenience, discouraging cycling in an area ripe for better connectivity. The City of Copenhagen recognized this challenge and launched a competition to design a solution: a bridge that would seamlessly connect the two districts, prioritizing cyclists and enhancing the overall urban experience. The winning design, by Dissing+Weitling Architecture, was nothing short of inspired. Rather than a simple, straight crossing, they envisioned a gently curving, elevated bridge that would snake its way through the harborfront, creating a visually striking and functionally superior route. The result is Cykelslangen, a 220-meter-long steel structure that rises up to seven meters above the water's surface, offering panoramic views of the harbor and the city skyline. The bridge's snakelike form is not merely aesthetic; it serves several practical purposes. The curves reduce the slope of the ramp, making it easier for cyclists to ascend and descend. They also allow the bridge to weave around existing buildings and infrastructure, minimizing disruption to the surrounding area. The bright orange color, chosen for its visibility and vibrancy, further enhances the bridge's visual impact, making it a bold statement against the gray and glass of the surrounding buildings. Cykelslangen is more than just a pretty face; it's a highly functional piece of infrastructure that has significantly improved cycling conditions in Copenhagen. By separating cyclists from pedestrians, the bridge has eliminated congestion and created a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone. It has also reduced travel times, making cycling a more attractive option for commuters and leisure riders alike. An estimated 20,000 cyclists now use Cykelslangen every day, a testament to its success and popularity. The bridge's design also incorporates several features that enhance the user experience. The surface is made of a non-slip material, ensuring a safe ride in all weather conditions. LED lighting is integrated into the handrails, providing illumination at night and creating a visually stunning effect. The bridge's slender columns minimize its visual impact on the harborfront, allowing pedestrians to enjoy unobstructed views. Cykelslangen has not only improved cycling conditions but has also contributed to the revitalization of the surrounding area. The bridge has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, drawn to its unique architecture and stunning views. It has also spurred the development of new businesses and amenities in the area, creating a more vibrant and dynamic urban environment. The success of Cykelslangen has inspired other cities around the world to invest in cycling infrastructure and to prioritize sustainable transportation. The bridge has become a model for innovative urban design, demonstrating how infrastructure can be both functional and beautiful, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Cykelslangen is a testament to Copenhagen's vision of a city where cycling is not just a mode of transportation but a way of life. It's a symbol of the city's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and creating a vibrant, livable urban environment. Whether you're a cyclist or not, a visit to Cykelslangen is a must for anyone exploring Copenhagen. It's a chance to experience firsthand the city's unique cycling culture and to admire a truly remarkable piece of architecture.

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