Kalveboderne Bay

A long, sheltered bay between Amager and western Copenhagen, where marinas, open sky and evolving waterfronts create a quiet, lived-in maritime landscape.

4.5

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Kalveboderne is a long, sheltered stretch of water between the island of Amager and the western districts of Copenhagen, forming the city’s calm southern harbour and inner fjord-like bay. Fringed by marinas, nature areas and new canalside neighbourhoods, it offers a mix of sailing, kayaking, shoreline strolls and big-sky views, with the skyline of Copenhagen and low-lying Amager framing the horizon. It is more of a lived-in maritime landscape than a single viewpoint, rewarding slow exploration along its quays, paths and piers.

A brief summary to Kalveboderne

DK
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Bring layers and a windproof jacket; the open water and embankments can feel breezy even when the city streets are sheltered.
If you plan to kayak or paddleboard, check local regulations and stay clear of main boat channels, especially near harbour entrances.
Combine a shoreline walk or ride along Kalveboderne with time in nearby nature areas on Amager for a full day outdoors.

Getting There

Train and walk

From central Copenhagen, take an S-train on the A, E or H lines toward the southwestern suburbs and get off at a station such as Friheden or Avedøre. The ride typically takes 10–20 minutes, and standard zone tickets cost roughly 25–40 DKK depending on your starting point. From these stations, it is about a 15–30 minute walk to reach paths along the Kalveboderne shoreline, mostly on flat pavements and gravel embankments that are easy to manage in most weather.
Metro and bus

You can also approach Kalveboderne from the Amager side by taking the M1 or M2 metro from the city centre toward Amager stations such as Ørestad, which takes around 10–15 minutes and costs about 25–30 DKK. From there, local buses heading toward Vestamager or the southern harbour districts bring you closer to the bay in another 10–20 minutes. Services are frequent during the day, and most stops are within a short, level walk of the dikes and waterfront paths.
Cycling

For a more scenic approach, rent a bicycle in central Copenhagen and follow signposted cycle routes toward the South Harbour or Amager’s western edge. Depending on your exact route, the ride to Kalveboderne usually takes 20–40 minutes on mostly flat, segregated cycle paths. This option is inexpensive beyond the bike rental fee, but be prepared for wind along the open stretches and bring lights if you plan to return after dark.

Kalveboderne location weather suitability

Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather
Hot Weather
Any Weather

Discover more about Kalveboderne

A sheltered waterway at Copenhagen’s southern edge

Kalveboderne is the broad, almost fjord-like body of water that separates the island of Amager from the western suburbs and harbour districts of Copenhagen. Stretching south from the inner harbour, this bay forms a calm, elongated inlet rather than an open sea, with low shores, marinas and flood embankments defining its outline. To the west you glimpse Hvidovre and the flat suburbs; to the east, the skyline of Amager and the evolving canals of Sluseholmen and other new neighbourhoods. Because the bay is partially enclosed and shielded from the strongest waves, its surface is often glassy, broken only by the wakes of small boats and the ripples of passing ferries. It feels distinctly different from the busy inner harbour: slower, wider, more spacious, with sky and water taking up most of the frame.

Layered landscape between city, suburb and reclaimed land

Kalveboderne is more than a simple channel of water; it is the seam where several types of Danish landscape meet. On the Amager side, much of the shoreline is reclaimed land and former seabed, tied to the wider story of Kalvebod Fælled, the vast nature area just beyond the dikes. To the west, modest suburbs and industrial pockets give way to boat harbours and green strips, reminding you that this is still an everyday working waterfront as well as a recreational one. Seen from a quay or a cycling path, you can read this layered history in the built environment: flood defences, utility structures, bridges and the silhouettes of infrastructure intertwine with reeds, shallow banks and the occasional islet. It is an urban estuary in slow transformation, where the line between city and nature is constantly being redrawn.

Harbours, marinas and life on the water

Along the bay sit a chain of marinas and small harbours, including calm basins in Copenhagen Syd where sailing boats and motor cruisers ride gently at their moorings. Protected in most wind conditions, these moorings turn Kalveboderne into a natural home port for local sailors who value easy access to both the inner harbour and the wider Øresund beyond. On a summer day, the water carries the movement of dinghies under training, kayaks tracing the shoreline, and paddleboards cutting quietly across the bay. The sense of space makes it feel safe and approachable even for less experienced paddlers, while still offering enough distance and shifting perspectives to feel like a real outing on the water.

Paths, viewpoints and everyday escapes

From the landward side, Kalveboderne reveals itself gradually as you follow footpaths and cycling routes along the embankments and quays. Long, straight stretches invite you to settle into a rhythm, occasionally broken by small piers, benches or informal fishing spots where people pause to watch the light on the water. Sunsets here can be particularly rewarding, with the low western sun painting the water in copper tones and casting silhouettes of masts and cranes. At other times of day, the bay serves as a quiet backdrop for joggers, dog walkers and commuters on two wheels, a reminder that in Copenhagen, open water is often just beyond the next row of buildings.

Weather, seasons and the changing mood of the bay

Kalveboderne’s character shifts with the seasons and the weather. On bright, still days, reflections are crisp and the bay feels almost lake-like. Under grey skies or in windier conditions, the surface darkens and short, choppy waves run the length of the channel, underlining its connection to the broader sea. In winter, frost along the embankments, low light and the calls of overwintering birds add a starker beauty. Because it is a working and recreational waterway rather than a groomed park, you experience the elements directly: open wind, big skies and broad horizons. That rawness is part of the appeal, offering a contrast to the polished waterfronts closer to the city centre while still being embedded in Copenhagen’s everyday urban fabric.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

CWGC Krigsgrave, CWGC Graves

3.8 km

Scandinavia's largest cemetery: a 54-hectare landscape of history, architecture, and remembrance in Copenhagen.

Elefantporten

4.5 km

Four monumental granite elephants carry a historic brewery tower on their backs, blending whimsy, symbolism and industrial heritage in the heart of Carlsberg Byen.

Enghaveparken

4.7 km

Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.

Cykelslangen

5.1 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

5.1 km

Striking waterfront media headquarters in Copenhagen’s Havneholmen district, where modern Danish office architecture meets busy cycle bridges and harbour life.

Storm P. Museum

5.2 km

Delve into the world of Danish humor and satirical art at the Storm P. Museum, where whimsical cartoons, eccentric inventions, and cultural history come alive in Frederiksberg.

Frederiksbergmuseerne

5.6 km

Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.

Møstings Hus

5.6 km

Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.

Frederiksberg Town Hall

5.6 km

Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.

DR Koncerthuset

5.9 km

World-class concert hall designed by Jean Nouvel, renowned for exceptional acoustics and innovative architecture.

Copenhagen Central Post Building

6.0 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.

Islands Brygge 18

6.0 km

Discover Aarhus University Park: an iconic green haven at the city's core, where architectural elegance meets tranquil lakes, vibrant campus life, and lush Nordic landscape.

Copenhagen Central Station

6.0 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.

The Tube

6.0 km

Experience 17 immersive rooms of sensory adventure at The Tube in Copenhagen Central Station.

Frihedsstøtten

6.1 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.

Unmissable attractions to see

Valby Beach

1.4 km

Modest urban shoreline where Valby Park’s lawns meet the calm waters of Kalveboderne, offering low-key swimming, picnics and everyday Copenhagen harbour life.

Valbyparken

1.6 km

Copenhagen’s largest park, where circular theme gardens, rose-filled circles and a breezy shoreline meet playgrounds, sports fields and wide-open skies.

Kalvebod Fælled

3.2 km

A vast reclaimed seabed turned wild urban commons, where big skies, grazing herds, rich birdlife and long trails create a rare sense of wilderness beside Copenhagen.

Carlsberg Brewery Tours

4.2 km

Step into the original 1847 Carlsberg brewery for immersive beer history, interactive exhibits, courtyard drinks and encounters with the brewery’s iconic draught horses.

Arne Jacobsens Allé 12

4.2 km

A vast, light-filled shopping town under one roof in Copenhagen’s Ørestad district, mixing fashion, daily essentials, dining and shelter from the Danish weather.

Field's

4.3 km

Scandinavia-scale shopping, dining and entertainment under one sleek roof in Copenhagen’s modern Ørestad district, from fashion and design to cinema, trampolines and a vast hypermarket.

Bella Center Copenhagen

4.5 km

Copenhagen’s powerhouse convention and exhibition centre, combining vast flexible halls, sleek Nordic design and direct metro access in the modern Ørestad district.

The Hill House Museum

4.6 km

Step into a preserved Danish Golden Age home where intimate rooms, a romantic garden and literary memories of Hans Christian Andersen bring 19th‑century Frederiksberg to life.

Cisterns in Søndermarken

4.6 km

Discover Danish celebrity history and culture under the trees of Frederiksberg Allé, where handprints and names honor the stars of Denmark’s stage and screen.

Søndermarken

4.7 km

Former royal hunting grounds turned semi-wild city park, Søndermarken blends forested paths, meadows and an underground art world beneath Frederiksberg’s leafy streets.

Folkehuset Absalon

4.8 km

Copenhagen's beloved community gathering space where strangers share meals, create art, and build genuine connections.

Copenhagen Zoo

4.8 km

Historic canal in Indre By weaving past royal palaces, stately bridges, and cultural icons—offering tranquil walks and quintessential Copenhagen views.

Frederiksberg Palace

4.9 km

Renaissance splendor, regal treasures, and royal intrigue await within Rosenborg Castle, set amid the enchanting King’s Garden in central Copenhagen.

Amager Fælled

5.0 km

Semi-wild meadows and wetlands brushing against Copenhagen’s skyline, Amager Fælled is the city’s closest taste of open Danish nature.

Frederiksberg Gardens

5.2 km

Royal waterways, baroque palaces, and pacifier traditions in Copenhagen's most romantic green escape.

Classic Danish-French brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, offering seasonal menus, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning garden views for an authentic local dining experience.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall

5.0 km

Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.

Funky Junky

5.3 km

Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.

Royal Copenhagen - Outlet

5.5 km

Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

5.6 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.

Artikel København

5.7 km

Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.

Frederiksberg Centret

6.0 km

Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.

C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts

6.1 km

A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.

Tivoli Gift Shop

6.1 km

A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.

Souvenir Gift Shop

6.2 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.

Wonderful Souvenirs

6.5 km

Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.

Rødovre Centrum

6.5 km

Denmark’s original modern shopping mall, blending big‑name stores, cinema and family‑friendly leisure in a spacious all‑weather hub west of central Copenhagen.

Danish Souvenirs

6.5 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

6.6 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.

København K

6.6 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.

Carmen Copenhagen

6.6 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

The House of Machines Copenhagen

5.1 km

Award-winning cocktail bar with industrial soul and live music in Copenhagen's Vesterbro.

JOJO

5.1 km

Colourful neighbourhood cocktail bar in Vesterbro, serving freshly crafted drinks on tap in a relaxed, sociable setting that suits pre-drinks, dates and casual nights.

Riesen Bar

5.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.

Märkbar

5.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Märkbar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets an eclectic atmosphere and affordable drinks.

Mesteren & Lærlingen

5.3 km

Discover the lively bar scene at Mesteren & Lærlingen, where cocktails meet vibrant DJ beats in the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife.

Jolene Bar

5.4 km

Industrial‑chic, late‑night beats in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, blending laid‑back bar vibes with a no‑frills, LGBTQ‑friendly dance floor.

Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar

5.5 km

Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

1656 Cocktail Bar

5.5 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.

Cafe Intime

5.5 km

Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.

Lidkoeb

5.5 km

Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.

Berlin Bar

5.6 km

Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.

bird

5.6 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Bird, where unique cocktails and a laid-back ambiance await you.

Spunk

5.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Spunk, a lively bar in Copenhagen offering a diverse drinks menu and an inviting atmosphere for all.

Amigo Bar

5.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Amigo Bar, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.

La Fée Verte

5.7 km

Discover La Fée Verte, a charming bar in Frederiksberg, offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Kalveboderne Bay

A brief summary to Kalveboderne

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Train and walk

Metro and bus

Cycling

Kalveboderne location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Kalveboderne

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Kalveboderne

A sheltered waterway at Copenhagen’s southern edge

Layered landscape between city, suburb and reclaimed land

Harbours, marinas and life on the water

Paths, viewpoints and everyday escapes

Weather, seasons and the changing mood of the bay

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

CWGC Krigsgrave, CWGC Graves

Elefantporten

Enghaveparken

Cykelslangen

Havneholmen 33

Storm P. Museum

Frederiksbergmuseerne

Møstings Hus

Frederiksberg Town Hall

DR Koncerthuset

Copenhagen Central Post Building

Islands Brygge 18

Copenhagen Central Station

The Tube

Frihedsstøtten

Unmissable attractions to see

Valby Beach

Valbyparken

Kalvebod Fælled

Carlsberg Brewery Tours

Arne Jacobsens Allé 12

Field's

Bella Center Copenhagen

The Hill House Museum

Cisterns in Søndermarken

Søndermarken

Folkehuset Absalon

Copenhagen Zoo

Frederiksberg Palace

Amager Fælled

Frederiksberg Gardens

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Vandvid

Enomania

Hansens Gamle Familiehave

Bevi Bevi

Je t'aime

The Harbour

Kødbyens Fiskebar

Frederik the VI

Fleisch

Paté Paté

MASH Penthouse

Restaurant Spuntino

Café Lindevang

Madklubben Vesterbro

Ewalds Brasserie

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall

Funky Junky

Royal Copenhagen - Outlet

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Artikel København

Frederiksberg Centret

C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts

Tivoli Gift Shop

Souvenir Gift Shop

Wonderful Souvenirs

Rødovre Centrum

Danish Souvenirs