Cykelslangen (The Bicycle Snake)
A vivid orange bicycle bridge that snakes above Copenhagen’s harborfront, turning a once-awkward shortcut into a graceful symbol of the city’s cycling culture.
Cykelslangen, or The Bicycle Snake, is Copenhagen’s striking elevated cycle bridge that swoops between Vesterbro and the harborfront near Fisketorvet. Opened in 2014 and painted a vivid orange, the snaking, bike‑only route curves above the water and quayside, gliding riders between buildings and over Gasværkshavnen. Part urban shortcut, part design icon, it showcases the city’s cycling culture and offers unusual vantage points over the harbor and modern waterfront architecture.
A brief summary to Cykelslangen
- Cykelslangen, Vesterbro/Kongens Enghave, Vesterbro/Kongens Enghave, 1560, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Ride the bridge in both directions if you can; the approach from Vesterbro and the glide toward the harbor each offer different views and sensations.
- Visit around golden hour on a clear day to see the orange deck glow against the water and capture strong architectural photos of the curves.
- If you are on foot, use the quayside paths below to watch the continuous stream of cyclists overhead without blocking the cycling lane.
- In wet or icy weather, ride cautiously—the bridge surface is designed for grip, but the gentle curves and elevation call for controlled speed.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro and short walk
From Copenhagen Central Station, take the M3 or M4 metro one stop to København H–Frederiksberg line interchange and continue to Dybbølsbro Station; the ride typically takes 5–10 minutes and is covered by a standard zone 1–2 ticket, usually around 24–30 DKK. From Dybbølsbro, expect a 10–15 minute walk on mostly flat pavements through the Vesterbro side streets to reach the harborfront near Fisketorvet, where the orange bridge becomes clearly visible. The route is suitable for most visitors, though those with limited mobility should allow extra time for the walk.
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City bus
Several city buses stop by the Fisketorvet shopping center on the Vesterbro side of the harbor, typically taking 10–20 minutes from central Copenhagen depending on traffic, with single tickets in the 24–30 DKK range for travel within the inner zones. From the bus stops, it is a 5–10 minute walk on level ground to the base of Cykelslangen. Buses run frequently throughout the day, but can be crowded during commuting hours and weekends when the mall is busy.
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Bicycle from the city center
Hiring a city bike from the inner districts and riding to Cykelslangen usually takes 10–20 minutes, following Copenhagen’s extensive network of segregated cycle lanes almost the entire way. Standard city bike rentals are widely available on an hourly basis, often starting around 25–40 DKK per half hour depending on the provider. The approach is largely flat and well signed for cyclists, making it accessible to riders with basic urban cycling experience, though extra caution is advised near major junctions.
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Harborfront walk
If you are already exploring the central harborfront, you can reach Cykelslangen on foot in roughly 20–35 minutes by following continuous quayside promenades and bridges that connect different waterfront quarters. The terrain is flat, mostly paved and stroller‑friendly, but can feel exposed in windy or wet weather. This option is free and gives you the chance to approach the bridge gradually, watching its orange structure appear between the buildings.
Cykelslangen location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Cykelslangen
An orange ribbon through Copenhagen’s harborfront
Cykelslangen, the aptly named Bicycle Snake, unfurls as a vivid orange ribbon that threads between glass facades, highway ramps and the harbor basin at Kalvebod Brygge. Purpose-built for cyclists, this elevated bridge peels away from the busy quayside and lifts you into a separate world a few metres above the water. Stretching roughly 220 metres with a slim, 4.6‑metre width, the bridge feels unexpectedly intimate for a piece of infrastructure. Its gentle curves and steady gradient make it easy to ride, yet its hovering position over the harbor and waterfront plaza gives the crossing a cinematic quality.From awkward staircase to cycling showcase
Before Cykelslangen was completed in 2014, cyclists moving between Vesterbro, Fisketorvet and the harbor bridge system had to wrestle bikes up and down long staircases or weave slowly through crowded pedestrian areas. The city commissioned architects Dissing+Weitling to solve this bottleneck and underline Copenhagen’s commitment to everyday cycling. Their answer was not just a ramp but an elevated route that snakes above ground, touching down only on slender columns. The meandering line lengthens the path just enough to soften the slope, turning what was once an obstacle into a smooth, continuous ride that can be completed in under a minute.Design details in steel, light and motion
Seen from below, the Bicycle Snake rests on a rhythm of slim white supports, its underside a clean structural sweep that mirrors the water surface beneath. Above, the bright orange deck provides clear visual contrast with the grey harborfront and dark water, instantly signaling that this is a dedicated cycling artery. The balustrades are kept low and transparent, giving riders unbroken views while subtly encouraging a sense of flow. At night, integrated lighting traces the curve so the bridge becomes a glowing line across the harbor, highlighting its sculptural form and extending its role as a piece of urban scenery after dark.Experiencing the bridge by bike and on foot
The purest way to experience Cykelslangen is in the saddle, letting the gentle slope pull you along while the city slips past at eye level. As you travel, you glimpse the harbor, the Bryggebroen connection and the evolving waterfront skyline, all while remaining separated from pedestrians and cars. On foot, you can pause on nearby quays, watch the constant stream of cyclists glide overhead and appreciate how the bridge threads between mall, hotel and harbor. The interplay between those passing above and those lingering below brings a human scale to an area once dominated by roads and blank facades.A symbol of a cycle-first city
Beyond its eye-catching form, Cykelslangen has become shorthand for Copenhagen’s broader ambitions. It connects directly into a wider network of harbor crossings and super cycle routes that stretch deep into surrounding districts, making two‑wheeled travel faster and more appealing than driving for many daily journeys. In doing so, the bridge is both infrastructure and emblem: a practical shortcut that saves time for thousands of commuters and a visible statement that this is a city willing to elevate bicycles—literally—above conventional traffic, turning a once-awkward corner of the harbor into a small stage for urban life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cykelslangen
0.0 km
An elevated orange ribbon over Copenhagen’s harbor where cyclists glide above the water and visitors glimpse the city’s everyday bicycle culture in motion.
Havneholmen 33
0.2 km
Striking waterfront media headquarters in Copenhagen’s Havneholmen district, where modern Danish office architecture meets busy cycle bridges and harbour life.
Copenhagen Central Post Building
1.0 km
A majestic neo-Baroque landmark intertwining Denmark’s postal history with Vesterbro’s vibrant urban fabric, located beside Copenhagen’s bustling central railway station.
Copenhagen Central Station
1.1 km
Historic brick-and-timber rail hub at the heart of Copenhagen, combining grand architecture, everyday convenience and instant access to the city’s main sights.
Frihedsstøtten
1.2 km
Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
1.3 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Enghaveparken
1.3 km
Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
1.4 km
A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
City Hall Square
1.5 km
Copenhagen’s City Hall Square is the city’s ceremonial heart, blending grand architecture, local traditions, lively events, and everyday urban buzz into one essential landmark.
The Stable Boy's House
1.5 km
A modest former service house on Frederiksholms Kanal, quietly recalling the working lives behind Copenhagen’s royal stables and the grandeur of nearby Christiansborg.
Lur Blowers
1.5 km
Bronze Age horns meet early 20th‑century grandeur in this 20‑metre column, where two silent lur players keep watch over Copenhagen’s bustling City Hall Square.
Frederiksholms Kanal
1.6 km
Discover the charm of Frederiksholms Kanal, Copenhagen's picturesque canal, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural exploration.
Vandkunsten Springvand
1.6 km
A hidden gem where medieval water engineering meets early 20th-century artistry in Copenhagen's charming Old Town.
The War Museum
1.7 km
Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
Circle Bridge
1.7 km
A five-masted circle of light and steel where art, everyday crossings and Copenhagen’s maritime history meet above the waters of Christianshavn Canal.
Unmissable attractions to see
Islands Brygge
0.7 km
Copenhagen’s former industrial quay reborn as a sun-soaked harbourfront of swimming decks, lawns and laid-back city life along the inner waterfront.
VisitDenmark
0.7 km
Copenhagen's vibrant waterfront hub where urban swimming, green lawns, and waterside cafes create the perfect Danish hygge escape.
Øksnehallen
0.7 km
Vast former cattle hall turned cultural venue, Øksnehallen blends industrial heritage, daylight-filled architecture and flexible space for major fairs, art shows and events.
Freddys Bar
0.8 km
Discover Denmark’s maritime heritage and cutting-edge architecture at Helsingør’s award-winning M/S Maritime Museum, set in a stunning subterranean dry dock near Kronborg Castle.
Folkehuset Absalon
0.8 km
Copenhagen's beloved community gathering space where strangers share meals, create art, and build genuine connections.
Istedgade
0.9 km
Gritty, creative and endlessly watchable, Istedgade is Vesterbro’s main strip and Copenhagen’s classic showcase of everyday city life with an edge.
Legepladsen i Skydebanehaven
1.0 km
A colourful staffed playground tucked inside a historic walled park in Vesterbro, where giant parrots, paddling pools and lawns turn old shooting grounds into family fun.
Islands Brygge 18
1.0 km
A waterfront cultural house on Copenhagen’s harbour, blending performances, family activities and a relaxed café with open views across the city skyline.
Mikkeller Bar
1.0 km
Stændertorvet is Roskilde’s historic central square, bustling with markets, events, and iconic views of the UNESCO-listed cathedral at the city’s vibrant core.
Model train display
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting Model Train Display in Copenhagen, showcasing intricate landscapes and charming miniature railways for all ages.
Himmelskibet
1.1 km
Spin 80 meters high on the world's tallest carousel swing for breathtaking Copenhagen views.
Havnebadet Islands Brygge
1.1 km
Open‑air saltwater pools, diving towers and sun‑warmed decks turn Copenhagen’s inner harbour at Islands Brygge into an urban beach and everyday swimming hangout.
The Tube
1.1 km
Step into a World War II bomb shelter transformed into a mind-bending immersive experience with 17 interactive rooms.
Red Sightseeing Copenhagen
1.1 km
Hands-on science, vintage vehicles, and maritime history come together in this interactive, family-friendly branch of Malmö Museum, housed in an iconic industrial building.
Rutschebanen
1.2 km
A century-old wooden roller coaster weaving through a rocky mountain in Tivoli Gardens, where a live brakeman and rattling timber keep Copenhagen’s past in motion.
Essential places to dine
The Harbour
0.1 km
Calm, contemporary harbourfront dining inside Copenhagen Island hotel, pairing generous breakfasts and modern Nordic-inspired dishes with sweeping water views.
Je t'aime
0.4 km
Intimate Vesterbro bistro where candlelight, classic French dishes and a well‑chosen wine list bring a touch of Paris to a quiet Copenhagen side street.
MASH Penthouse
0.4 km
Skyline steakhouse on the 12th floor of Tivoli Hotel, blending premium cuts, crafted cocktails and sweeping Copenhagen views in a chic, velvety penthouse setting.
Kødbyens Fiskebar
0.6 km
Industrial-chic seafood in Copenhagen’s former Meatpacking District, where ultra-fresh Nordic fish, natural wines and a buzzing bar scene meet under one concrete roof.
Fleisch
0.7 km
A contemporary restaurant and butcher shop in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, Fleisch combines Nordic meat traditions with creative, communal dining in an atmospheric urban setting.
Paté Paté
0.7 km
Paté Paté offers Mediterranean-inspired dining and expertly curated wines in Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District, blending industrial charm with vibrant Copenhagen culinary culture.
Bevi Bevi
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Bevi Bevi, a charming restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen.
Ristorante Buono
1.0 km
Cozy Vesterbro Italian with candlelit tables, generous pasta and risotto, and a relaxed neighbourhood feel in the heart of Copenhagen’s evening dining scene.
Cofoco
1.0 km
Cofoco in Vesterbro delights with accessible, innovative Danish and European tasting menus amid warm Scandinavian aesthetics and a true neighborhood spirit.
LUN restaurant & winebar
1.1 km
Andalusian-inspired tasting menus, serious wine and cocktails, and a warm candlelit atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen’s Vesterbro district.
Smagsløget
1.1 km
Discover Smagsløget in Copenhagen: where traditional Danish flavors meet innovative culinary experiences in an inviting atmosphere.
Delphine
1.1 km
Stylish Mediterranean small plates in a visually stunning Vesterbro setting.
Maple Casual Dining
1.1 km
Intimate Copenhagen dinner spot on Vesterbrogade, serving polished home-style dishes, generous desserts and warm service in a cozy, modern neighborhood setting.
La Baracca Tivoli - Food Hall
1.2 km
Handmade Italian pasta and wine in the heart of Tivoli Food Hall, offering relaxed, counter-service dining steps from Copenhagen Central Station.
Retour Vesterbro
1.2 km
Relaxed French-inspired bistro in the heart of Vesterbro, serving generous steaks, classic comfort dishes and cocktails in a warm, urban Copenhagen setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
0.1 km
Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.
Funky Junky
0.9 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
Tivoli Gift Shop
1.1 km
A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.2 km
Compact, colorful and full of playful Danish design, this Vesterbrogade shop turns everyday essentials, gifts and games into a fun, low-cost treasure hunt.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
1.3 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Souvenir Gift Shop
1.3 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
Artikel København
1.3 km
Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.
Wonderful Souvenirs
1.6 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Danish Souvenirs
1.6 km
Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Viking Souvenirs
1.6 km
Lively Strøget souvenir shop packed with Viking‑themed gifts, Danish icons and suitcase‑friendly mementos, ideal for quick last‑minute presents in central Copenhagen.
Souvenir Shop
1.7 km
Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
Carmen Copenhagen
1.7 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.
København K
1.7 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.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jolene Bar
0.5 km
Industrial‑chic, late‑night beats in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, blending laid‑back bar vibes with a no‑frills, LGBTQ‑friendly dance floor.
Mesteren & Lærlingen
0.6 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Mesteren & Lærlingen, where cocktails meet vibrant DJ beats in the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife.
1656 Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
Hidden behind an unmarked door in Vesterbro, 1656 serves inventive cocktails in a dimly lit, speakeasy-style hideaway made for slow, late-night conversations.
Spunk
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Spunk, a lively bar in Copenhagen offering a diverse drinks menu and an inviting atmosphere for all.
Pier5 Bar
0.9 km
Waterfront cocktails and harbor views in Copenhagen's contemporary hotel bar.
Jernbanecafeen
1.0 km
Densely decorated, railway‑themed pub opposite Copenhagen Central Station, where model trains, red carpets and cold beer create a lively Vesterbro living room.
Riesen Bar
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
CUBE bar
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at CUBE Bar, a stylish venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Curfew
1.1 km
Discover Curfew in Copenhagen: a chic cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for your night out.
Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar
1.2 km
Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Library Bar
1.2 km
Experience Copenhagen's luxurious Library Bar, where sophisticated cocktails meet an inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
The Marble Bar
1.2 km
An intimate marble-clad cocktail hideaway inside Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, serving Scandinavian-inflected drinks and quiet luxury steps from Tivoli Gardens.
Lidkoeb
1.3 km
Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
The House of Machines Copenhagen
1.3 km
Award-winning cocktail bar with industrial soul and live music in Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
The Storm Inn Copenhagen
1.4 km
Experience the warmth of The Storm Inn in Copenhagen, a cozy pub offering a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Business Friendly
