Rutschebanen: Copenhagen’s Wooden Roller Coaster Legend
Iconic 1914 wooden roller coaster in Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, offering nostalgic thrills and hands-on history amid the city’s legendary amusement park.
Rutschebanen, nestled inside the historic Tivoli Gardens, is one of the world’s oldest wooden roller coasters. Since 1914, it has thrilled generations, its rickety wooden frame and brakemen guiding riders through gentle hills and tunnels. With its nostalgic charm, distinctive setting, and landmark status, Rutschebanen is not just a ride, but a cherished piece of Danish amusement history.
A brief summary to Rutschebanen
- Bernstorffsgade 7, Copenhagen, København V, 1577, DK
- +4533151001
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase your Tivoli Gardens entry and ride tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially in peak holiday seasons.
- Rutschebanen is a family-friendly roller coaster, suitable for children and adults; check height restrictions before heading to the queue.
- Riding at dusk provides stunning views of Tivoli Gardens illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights.
- The brakeman tradition makes each ride unique. Chat with them for insider facts about the coaster’s history.
- Tivoli Gardens can get especially crowded during public celebrations and weekends—consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
Getting There
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Walking
Once inside Tivoli Gardens, Rutschebanen is easy to locate—just follow the festive crowds toward the central section near the lake. Its wooden structure and classic trains are visible from several corners of the park, drawing families and roller coaster fans alike. From the park entrance, allow a leisurely 5–10-minute stroll through gardens and lively squares.
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Public Transport
Copenhagen Central Station is directly across from Tivoli Gardens. Regional trains, S-trains, and buses from elsewhere on Zealand arrive here regularly. A standard adult ticket from outlying Zealand towns to the station ranges from DKK 50–110. From the station, Tivoli’s main gates are clearly visible, with entry less than five minutes’ walk away.
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Taxi
Taxis can drop passengers at the main entrances of Tivoli Gardens, just opposite Copenhagen Central Station. The journey from central parts of Zealand (e.g., Roskilde) to Tivoli takes 25–40 minutes, with fares typically between DKK 400–550 depending on distance and traffic.
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Driving/Parking
Parking is available at several underground car parks in the vicinity of Tivoli Gardens, though spaces can be limited and Copenhagen city-centre parking is expensive, averaging DKK 30–40 per hour. Allow extra time for walking from parking facilities and remember that traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends and holidays.
Discover more about Rutschebanen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Copenhagen Central Station
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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.
Copenhagen Central Post Building
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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 Visitor Service
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Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Frihedsstøtten
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Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
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A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
Lur Blowers
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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.
The Stable Boy's House
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A modest former service house on Frederiksholms Kanal, quietly recalling the working lives behind Copenhagen’s royal stables and the grandeur of nearby Christiansborg.
Church of Our Lady
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Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
Danish Architecture Centre
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Explore Danish and international architecture, urban development, and design at Copenhagen's premier cultural center, the Danish Architecture Centre, located in the iconic BLOX building.
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.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
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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.
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.
The War Museum
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Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
Gammel Strand
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Lille Langebro
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Explore Kronborg Castle, the iconic setting of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' and delve into Denmark's Renaissance history.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Tube
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Step into a World War II bomb shelter transformed into a mind-bending immersive experience with 17 interactive rooms.
Himmelskibet
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Spin 80 meters high on the world's tallest carousel swing for breathtaking Copenhagen views.
Tivoli Gardens
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Red Sightseeing Copenhagen
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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.
Model train display
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Discover the enchanting Model Train Display in Copenhagen, showcasing intricate landscapes and charming miniature railways for all ages.
Statue of Andersen
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A larger-than-life Hans Christian Andersen sits in bronze on Copenhagen’s City Hall Square, book in hand, gazing toward Tivoli Gardens in the city’s vibrant heart.
Copenhagen City Hall
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Explore Denmark's Viking heritage along the scenic Skjoldungestien trail.
City Hall Square
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Copenhagen’s grand urban living room: a historic civic square framed by City Hall, whimsical fountains, and the gateway to the pedestrian heart of the city.
Jens Olsen's World Clock
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Descend beneath Søndermarken Park to discover Copenhagen’s historic water cisterns, now transformed into a mesmerizing underground art museum unlike any other in Denmark.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
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Explore Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen's Renaissance masterpiece housing Denmark's Crown Jewels and royal treasures.
Museum of Copenhagen
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Rainbow Square
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A small city-centre plaza with a powerful rainbow dedication, Rainbow Square turns everyday pavement beside Copenhagen City Hall into a quiet landmark for LGBTQ+ equality.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
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A compact oddities museum on Rådhuspladsen where shrunken heads, vortex tunnels and record‑breaking curiosities turn everyday Copenhagen into a world of wonders.
Hans Christian Andersen Experience
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Step off bustling City Hall Square into a multisensory world where Hans Christian Andersen’s life and fairy tales unfold through atmospheric sets, light, sound and scent.
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours
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Discover masterpieces from the Danish Golden Age and European classics to contemporary art in Denmark’s largest art museum, set by Copenhagen’s serene city park.
Essential places to dine
La Baracca Tivoli - Food Hall
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Handmade Italian pasta and wine in the heart of Tivoli Food Hall, offering relaxed, counter-service dining steps from Copenhagen Central Station.
Spisestedet FEED
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Discover exquisite flavors and an inviting atmosphere at Spisestedet FEED in the heart of København.
LUN restaurant & winebar
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Andalusian-inspired tasting menus, serious wine and cocktails, and a warm candlelit atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen’s Vesterbro district.
Rio Bravo
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Retour Vesterbro
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Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen
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Rock legends, legendary burgers, and unforgettable American dining in Copenhagen's vibrant heart.
L'appetito
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Smagsløget
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Discover Smagsløget in Copenhagen: where traditional Danish flavors meet innovative culinary experiences in an inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant Noi
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Experience modern Nordic cuisine in a stylish, contemporary setting at Restaurant Noi, a favorite for seasonal dining in the heart of central Copenhagen.
Restaurant Karla
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Century-old Danish restaurant serving beloved classics and authentic smørrebrød in the heart of Copenhagen, steps from major museums and city attractions.
Ristorante Buono
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Cozy Vesterbro Italian with candlelit tables, generous pasta and risotto, and a relaxed neighbourhood feel in the heart of Copenhagen’s evening dining scene.
Maple Casual Dining
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Cofoco
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Cofoco in Vesterbro delights with accessible, innovative Danish and European tasting menus amid warm Scandinavian aesthetics and a true neighborhood spirit.
Husmanns Vinstue
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Dubrovnik Restaurant
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Cosy Croatian tavern in Copenhagen’s inner city, serving generous grills and rustic Adriatic comfort food in a warm, wood‑panelled dining room.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tivoli Gift Shop
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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
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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.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
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A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Wonderful Souvenirs
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Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Danish Souvenirs
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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
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Lively Strøget souvenir shop packed with Viking‑themed gifts, Danish icons and suitcase‑friendly mementos, ideal for quick last‑minute presents in central Copenhagen.
Carmen Copenhagen
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Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Souvenir Shop
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Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
København K
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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
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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
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Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Notre Dame
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A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
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Central Copenhagen’s hygge-filled stop for Scandinavian design and classic Danish souvenirs, perfectly placed on Nygade just off Strøget’s busy pedestrian flow.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
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A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Library Bar
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Jernbanecafeen
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Densely decorated, railway‑themed pub opposite Copenhagen Central Station, where model trains, red carpets and cold beer create a lively Vesterbro living room.
Proud Mary Pub
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The Shamrock Inn
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Experience the lively atmosphere of The Shamrock Inn, Copenhagen's premier Irish pub with live music and sports entertainment.
The Scottish Pub
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Lively Scottish‑style pub on Copenhagen’s main square, pouring pints and whisky late into the night with music, sports on TV and an easygoing, social crowd.
CUBE bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at CUBE Bar, a stylish venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Storm Inn Copenhagen
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Experience the warmth of The Storm Inn in Copenhagen, a cozy pub offering a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Rooftop Bar
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Compact rooftop oasis atop Hotel Danmark, pairing 360-degree Copenhagen views with cocktails, bubbles and golden-hour sunsets above the city’s historic heart.
Southern Cross Pub
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Two-floor Copenhagen sports pub pouring affordable pints, wall-to-wall live games, and late-night energy in the heart of the inner city.
The Marble Bar
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An intimate marble-clad cocktail hideaway inside Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, serving Scandinavian-inflected drinks and quiet luxury steps from Tivoli Gardens.
Taphouse
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Copenhagen’s modern beer hall, pouring 61 ever‑changing craft taps in a relaxed, Scandinavian setting just steps from the historic city center.
not your USUAL wine bar
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Spunk
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Curfew
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Musen & Elefanten
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Smoky, old-school Copenhagen bar and cigar hideaway where classic drinks, worn wood and late-night conversations create a timeless, slightly secret atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Module
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Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
Never Mind
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Den Anden Side
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Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
Club Mambo
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Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
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Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
CristalClubCopenhagen
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Dive into Copenhagen's nightlife at Cristal Club, where upscale ambiance meets electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
Dorsia
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Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Cosy Bar
0.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
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Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub, where adult entertainment meets unforgettable performances.
Miami Bar
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Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Baggen
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Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Baggen, where Copenhagen's nightlife comes alive with vibrant music and unforgettable experiences.
Mirror
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Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
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Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
La Terraza
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Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
