The Round Tower
A 17th-century spiral marvel where astronomy, art, and panoramic city views converge in Europe's oldest functioning observatory.
A 17th-century cylindrical tower in central Copenhagen, built by King Christian IV in 1642 as Europe's oldest functioning astronomical observatory. The tower's defining feature is its unique 7.5-turn spiral ramp—originally designed to accommodate horse-drawn carts carrying heavy equipment—which winds 209 meters to an observation deck offering 360-degree panoramic views of Copenhagen's skyline. Today it serves as a cultural hub hosting rotating art exhibitions, classical music concerts, and lectures in its historic Library Hall, while the restored observatory remains active for stargazing.
A brief summary to The Round Tower
- Købmagergade 52A, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1150, DK
- +4533730373
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Climb the spiral ramp slowly to fully appreciate the architectural engineering and enjoy the gradual ascent without stairs. The 209-meter ramp offers a unique experience unavailable in traditional tower climbs.
- Visit on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings during winter months (October–November) to look through the historic refracting telescope in the functioning observatory and experience stargazing as astronomers have for centuries.
- Explore the Library Hall's rotating exhibitions and cultural events, which often include art displays, classical music concerts, and lectures that celebrate the tower's role as a center of knowledge and creativity.
- Arrive early in the morning or on weekday afternoons to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the observation deck's 360-degree views with fewer visitors around you.
- Spend time examining the golden rebus on the tower's exterior façade, personally sketched by King Christian IV, which reveals the philosophical values underlying the tower's construction.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Metro and Walking
From Copenhagen Central Station, take the Metro Line M1 or M2 toward Vanløse or Lufthavnen, exiting at Nørreport Station (approximately 10 minutes). From Nørreport, the Round Tower is a 5-minute walk south along Fiolstræde, then west onto Købmagergade. The tower is located at Købmagergade 52A in the heart of central Copenhagen's historic district. This is the most direct and frequent public transport option.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen's extensive cycling infrastructure makes bicycle travel practical. From most central locations, cycling to Købmagergade 52A takes 10–20 minutes depending on your starting point. Bike racks are available near the tower. This is an economical and popular option for visitors familiar with cycling in urban environments.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, local alternatives) operate throughout Copenhagen. Journey times from the airport or central hotels typically range from 15–30 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from 150–300 Danish Krone. Note that parking near the tower is limited; drop-off is more practical than parking.
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Walking from Nørreport Station
If arriving by train or metro at Nørreport Station, the Round Tower is accessible via a pleasant 5-minute walk through Copenhagen's historic old town. Exit the station and head south on Fiolstræde, then turn west onto Københmagergade. The street is pedestrian-friendly and lined with shops and cafés, making the approach part of the Copenhagen experience.
The Round Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about The Round Tower
A Monument to Royal Vision and Scientific Ambition
The Round Tower (Rundetårn) stands as one of Denmark's most iconic landmarks, a striking cylindrical structure rising 34.8 meters above the heart of Copenhagen. Commissioned by King Christian IV and completed in 1642, it represents a bold architectural and scientific achievement that emerged during the Scientific Revolution. Christian IV envisioned Copenhagen as a center for learning and discovery, and the Round Tower became the physical embodiment of that ambition. The tower formed part of the larger Trinitatis Complex, a unified structure combining an astronomical observatory, a university library, and a chapel—three institutions dedicated to advancing knowledge and faith. This integration of science, scholarship, and spirituality reflected the intellectual values of 17th-century Denmark.The Engineering Marvel of the Spiral Ramp
What truly distinguishes the Round Tower is its revolutionary spiral ramp—a 7.5-turn helical corridor that gently ascends without traditional stairs. This architectural innovation was deliberately engineered to allow scholars and horse-drawn carts laden with heavy astronomical instruments to reach the observatory at the summit. The ramp has witnessed remarkable moments throughout history: in 1716, Tsar Peter the Great famously rode up it on horseback, accompanied by his wife Catherine I in a carriage; in 1888, the first bicycle race in the tower took place; and in 1902, a Beaufort motorcar became the first motorized vehicle to ascend the ramp. These events underscore how the tower's unique design captured the imagination of visitors and became a symbol of Copenhagen's progressive spirit.Europe's Oldest Functioning Observatory
At the tower's peak sits Europe's oldest functioning astronomical observatory, a distinction the Round Tower has maintained for nearly four centuries. King Christian IV built the tower specifically to enable astronomers from the University of Copenhagen to observe the night sky far above the city's lights and smoke—a critical advantage for accurate astronomical study. Christian Longomontanus, the king's astronomer and first professor of astronomy at the university, became the observatory's first director. For centuries, the tower served as the center of Danish astronomy and a launching point for meteorological observations and surveying work. The present observatory dates from 1929 and houses a refracting telescope capable of magnifications between 80 and 450 times, allowing visitors to glimpse distant celestial objects. During winter months, the observatory is staffed on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, inviting the public to peer through the telescope and contemplate the cosmos.Cultural Heart and Literary Inspiration
Beyond its scientific significance, the Round Tower became deeply woven into Danish cultural life. Halfway up the spiral ramp lies the Library Hall, originally designed to house the University of Copenhagen's book collection. When the young Hans Christian Andersen arrived in Copenhagen, the Round Tower was among his first visits. He borrowed books from its library and found inspiration within its walls, later referencing the tower in his fairy tales and early poems. Andersen even immortalized the tower in "The Tinderbox," comparing the eyes of a giant dog to the size of the Round Tower—a testament to its iconic status in the Danish imagination. Today, the Library Hall continues this cultural legacy, hosting rotating art exhibitions, classical music concerts, lectures, and talks that celebrate creativity and intellectual exchange.Architectural Symbolism and Design
The tower's exterior bears King Christian IV's personal artistic mark: a golden rebus inscribed on the façade, which he sketched himself. The inscription, combining Latin and Hebrew elements with symbolic imagery of a sword and red heart, translates to "Lead, God, learning and justice into the heart of the crowned King Christian IV." This declaration of purpose reveals the king's conviction that the tower represented more than mere scientific infrastructure—it embodied his vision of enlightened governance. The tower's original colors were yellow and red, reflecting the royal colors of the House of Oldenburg. The architectural style, developed by Hans van Steenwinckel and influenced by Dutch Baroque design, creates a restrained yet focused aesthetic that has endured for nearly four centuries. Stones for the construction came from Copenhagen's fortifications and from Roskilde, with additional materials imported from the Netherlands, reflecting the international scope of the project.Living History and Ongoing Restoration
The Round Tower has survived significant challenges, including severe damage during the Great Fire of 1728, after which it was carefully rebuilt. In January 2026, the tower's nearly 100-year-old observatory dome underwent restoration to protect this irreplaceable cultural heritage. The copper roof of the dome, worn by decades of exposure, was lifted from the tower's summit for thorough refurbishment. The observatory beneath the dome was also refurbished, with its floor renewed and the historic refractor telescope restored by specialists. This restoration ensures that Christian IV's "star castle" will continue to serve future generations. The tower remains a living landmark where history and contemporary culture intersect, offering visitors an opportunity to walk the same spiral ramp as centuries of scholars, dignitaries, and curious citizens, while experiencing both the scientific legacy of the past and the vibrant cultural programming of the present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Varehuset Messen
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A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Fiolstræde 42
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Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
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Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Jorcks Passage
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Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Højbro
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A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
The King's Garden
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Experience the tranquil beauty of The King's Garden, a historical park in Copenhagen surrounding the majestic Rosenborg Castle, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
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Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Magstræde
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Discover the enchanting charm of Magstræde, one of Copenhagen's oldest streets, filled with historic architecture, cozy cafes, and vibrant local culture.
Thorvaldsens Museum
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Explore the world of neoclassical sculpture at Thorvaldsens Museum in Copenhagen, home to the works of Bertel Thorvaldsen and a treasure trove of art and architectural inspiration.
Vandkunsten Springvand
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A hidden gem where medieval water engineering meets early 20th-century artistry in Copenhagen's charming Old Town.
Indre By
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Medieval streets, royal palaces, and European shopping converge in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Christiansborg Palace
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Explore the majestic Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture that captivates all who visit.
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.
Kongens Nytorv
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Discover Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen's historic square, surrounded by iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and easy access to Nyhavn and Strøget for an unforgettable experience.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.7 km
A quiet yet powerful royal monument in Christiansborg’s riding ground, uniting a pivotal Danish king with the groundbreaking sculptor who cast him in bronze.
Unmissable attractions to see
Københavns Synagoge
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A discreet 1833 synagogue in Krystalgade whose neoclassical facade hides an Egyptian‑inspired interior and centuries of Danish Jewish history, faith and resilience.
Kultorvet
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Historic coal market turned buzzing pedestrian square, where colourful façades, cafés and a modern fountain stage capture everyday Copenhagen life.
Skaal
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A visionary concert hall in Copenhagen, DR Koncerthuset fuses world-class acoustics, avant-garde architecture, and a rich tapestry of live music experiences.
Gråbrødretorv
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Mythic grandeur meets urban tranquility at Copenhagen’s spectacular Gefion Fountain, a must-see bronze sculpture and water feature rooted in Norse legend.
Balderdash
0.2 km
Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
Pub Crawl Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modernity at Sankt Hans Torv, Nørrebro's lively public square.
Strøget
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Church of Our Lady
0.3 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Amagertorv
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s historic marketplace turned elegant pedestrian square, where storks, cobblestones and centuries‑old facades meet modern design and city life.
Stork Fountain
0.4 km
Bask in the serene Baltic ambiance of Rødvig Beach on South Zealand—an inviting stretch of sand with sweeping views of Stevns Klint and local Danish charm.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.4 km
Heritage 19th‑century walls meet modern apartment comfort in a buzzing, hyper‑central corner of Copenhagen’s historic inner city.
Læderstræde
0.4 km
A cosy Old Town side street where rebuilt 18th‑century townhouses, Danish design boutiques and laid‑back cafés create a calm, human‑scaled alternative to busy Strøget.
Gammeltorv
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s oldest square, where cobbles, Neoclassical facades and the Renaissance Caritas Well quietly trace eight centuries of urban life in the city’s historic core.
Nytorv 2
0.4 km
An everyday address on Copenhagen’s historic Nytorv, placing you between grand courthouse columns, cobbled markets of old and the pulse of the Strøget pedestrian zone.
Botanical Garden
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's royal heritage at Rosenborg Castle, home to the crown jewels and set amidst the historic King's Garden in Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
Det Lille Apotek
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Restaurant Schønnemann
0.2 km
Experience authentic Danish smørrebrød and century-old culinary tradition at Restaurant Schønnemann, a historic Copenhagen institution renowned for its iconic lunch culture.
Wining and Dining
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French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Restaurant Sole D’Italia - København
0.2 km
Classic stone-oven pizzas and familiar Italian favourites served on one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric squares in the heart of the old town.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
Københavner Cafeen
0.4 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Restaurant Tight
0.4 km
Cozy multi-level townhouse restaurant in Copenhagen’s Old Town serving Nordic cuisine with a sunny southern twist, generous portions and a warm, brick-and-beam atmosphere.
Alouette
0.4 km
One‑Michelin‑star Green Star dining in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, where hyper‑seasonal Nordic tasting menus meet quietly striking design by the King’s Garden.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.4 km
Warm, candlelit hygge in Copenhagen’s old town, where classic Danish smørrebrød, hearty lunches and aquavit bring traditional flavors to a cosy side-street dining room.
Marv & Ben
0.5 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
l’Alsace
0.5 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
Krebsegaarden
0.5 km
An intimate art-filled townhouse in central Copenhagen where creative tasting menus, warm storytelling service and an epic cheese course turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.5 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Restaurant Maven
0.5 km
Distinctive Scandinavian dining in the soaring nave of a former church, Restaurant Maven offers inventive cuisine and fine wine in Copenhagen's historic Indre By.
ferment, ramen izakaya
0.5 km
Intimate basement izakaya where fermentation, organic ingredients, and Nordic sensibility transform ramen and bao into deeply satisfying art.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Time's Up Vintage
0.1 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
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A calm, curated Copenhagen fashion boutique where Scandinavian minimalism meets historic Krystalgade in a protected Neoclassical townhouse.
Studio Arhoj
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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.
Souvenir Gifts shop
0.1 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.
Fjällräven
0.2 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.
Norse Store
0.2 km
Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
Norse Projects
0.2 km
Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.3 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
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Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Duck Haven
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A tiny, colourful shop in Copenhagen’s old town where hundreds of themed rubber ducks turn souvenir hunting into a playful, photo‑worthy detour.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
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Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Magnolias
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A compact, upscale secondhand boutique on Købmagergade, Magnolias blends Copenhagen chic with curated pre-loved designer fashion in the city’s historic shopping heart.
& Other Stories
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Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
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Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
Hygge Original
0.3 km
A cozy Danish design shop on Amagertorv, offering hygge-inspired clothing, textiles and gifts in a calm, Scandinavian setting amid Copenhagen’s busiest streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar'Vin
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
Gejser Bar
0.1 km
Craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine in Copenhagen's most welcoming sophisticated bar.
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.
The Jane
0.1 km
Mad Men–style speakeasy meets late-night dance floor in a warren of hidden rooms, leather sofas and cocktail-fuelled energy beneath central Copenhagen.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.2 km
Intimate basement cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pairing creative drinks with warm lighting, easygoing music and a sociable late-night city-centre vibe.
Luke's Bar
0.2 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
No Stress Bar
0.3 km
Basement cocktail pub in Copenhagen’s historic center mixing dessert-inspired drinks, games, comedy and drag shows into one laid-back, late-night hangout.
Charlie's Bar
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
The Globe Irish Pub
0.3 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in central Copenhagen, pouring serious beer and whiskey alongside hearty comfort food, sports screenings and cozy, hygge-tinged corners.
The Moose
0.3 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Trykbar
0.3 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
The Dubliner
0.4 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Arch
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
0.3 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
The Zoo
0.3 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Hive
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Chateau Motel
0.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Rumors
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
0.4 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
La Terraza
0.4 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Mini Bar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Miami Bar
0.4 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lusso
0.5 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
Dorsia
0.5 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Cosy Bar
0.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Club Mambo
0.7 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Romantic
- Entertaining
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Iconic Views
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
