Things to Skip in Copenhagen: Save Time and Money

Opuere Odu

Writer

June 20, 2023
9:57 am

Copenhagen is a fantastic city with plenty to offer, yet not everything is worth your time. This guide to things to skip in Copenhagen will help you avoid the tourist traps and focus on experiences that bring out the city’s best. While some spots are popular with visitors, they might not live up to the hype. Here, you’ll find what to skip and some real things to do in Copenhagen to make the most of your time in the city. We have also put together an ultimate 4-day guide on what to see, eat, and do when in Copenhagen.

The Carlsberg Brewery Tour: While popular with tourists, the Carlsberg Brewery Tour might be less appealing for short-term visitors; locals often prefer the more relaxed Mikkeller Brewery for craft beers.
Cisterns Museum vs. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: The Cisterns Museum’s underground art space can feel cramped, whereas the Louisiana Museum offers expansive views and high-caliber modern exhibitions, making it a more open and inspiring experience.
Copenhagen Opera House vs. Nyboder Neighborhood: The Opera House is impressive but costly if not attending a performance; a walk through the neighboring Nyboder offers a charming historic atmosphere at no cost.
Attractions to Skip in Copenhagen: Many popular sites like Gefion Fountain, Stork Fountain, and Copenhagen Zoo can be underwhelming, and alternative visits to places like Kultorvet Square or the Botanical Garden may offer a more authentic experience.

1) The Carlsberg Brewery Tour

The Carlsberg Brewery Tour is a big hit with tourists, giving them a look at the history and making of Carlsberg beer. But if you’re an expat or visiting for a few days, you might want to skip the usual tour and head to Mikkeller Brewery instead—a local spot known for its craft beers and laid-back vibe.

2) Cisterns Museum

Cisterns Museum is an underground art space in an old water reservoir. It’s unique, sure, but it can feel cramped and tough to get around. For a more open experience, check out the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art just north of Copenhagen—it’s got stunning views and top-tier exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

3) Copenhagen Opera House

Things to Skip in Copenhagen: Opera House

The Copenhagen Opera House is sleek and impressive, with great views of the harbor. But unless you’re planning to see an opera or ballet, it might feel overpriced and not quite worth it. Instead, take a stroll through Nyboder nearby—a historic neighborhood full of charming yellow houses and a cozy vibe.

4) Royal Danish Arsenal Museum

The Royal Danish Arsenal Museum is a military museum showcasing the history of Danish warfare. It’s extremely focused on military history, and you may prefer to explore other aspects of Danish culture. Try the nearby Danish Jewish Museum, a beautiful and thought-provoking space showcasing the history and culture of the Danish Jewish community.

5) Copenhagen Zoo

The Copenhagen Zoo draws crowds with its diverse lineup of animals. However, if you’re an expat, you may want go elsewhere. Wander over to the nearby Botanical Garden—a peaceful, lush oasis in the center of the city.

6) Gefion Fountain

Gefion Fountain is a striking landmark in Copenhagen, showcasing the Norse goddess Gefion and her sons. However, it often feels crowded and can be a bit underwhelming. Nearby, Kultorvet Square offers a charming historic setting with beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere.

7) The Royal Library Garden

Royal Library Garden is a peaceful spot in the city with trees, flowers, and sculptures, but it tends to draw a crowd. For a more expansive experience, head to the nearby Botanical Garden or King’s Garden, which features a historic castle and a beautiful rose garden.

8) Danish Film Institute

The Danish Film Institute offers a deep dive into Danish film history and culture, but unless you’re really into Danish cinema, it might feel a bit niche. Nearby, the Glyptoteket Museum provides a broader experience, with stunning art collections spanning from ancient times to the modern day.

9) Thorvaldsens Museum

Thorvaldsens Museum displays the works of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, but if you’re not familiar with his art, it can feel a bit underwhelming. The Museum of Copenhagen, on the other hand, offers an engaging look into the city’s history and development, bringing Copenhagen’s story to life.

10) Stork Fountain

The Stork Fountain, featuring a family of storks, adds a bit of charm to central Copenhagen, but it can feel underwhelming as a tourist stop. Rundetaarn, a nearby historic tower with a unique spiral walkway and stunning city views, offers a more memorable experience.

11) Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Museum

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Museum features an impressive range of art, from ancient Egyptian and Greek artifacts to Danish and French masterpieces. However, if the entire collection doesn’t appeal and the entrance fee feels steep, try the National Museum of Denmark nearby—it offers a deep dive into Danish history and culture, with free admission.

12) The Copenhagen Card

The Copenhagen Card gives tourists free access to over 80 attractions and public transportation, but if you’re planning to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, it might not be worth it. Go for individual tickets instead, or take advantage of the many free parks and attractions around the city.

Things to Skip in Copenhagen

This guide on things to skip in Copenhagen is just that—a guide. If you’re set on visiting the spots we suggest skipping, go for it. Copenhagen is yours to explore, so follow your own path and enjoy some Danish hygge along the way. Make it fun, make it cozy, and dive into the city however you like.

FAQ

What are some common attractions in Copenhagen that are recommended to skip, and what are better alternatives?

Popular sites like the Carlsberg Brewery Tour, Gefion Fountain, and Copenhagen Zoo can be underwhelming, so it’s recommended to visit places like Mikkeller Brewery, Kultorvet Square, and the Botanical Garden instead for a more authentic experience.

Why might the Carlsberg Brewery Tour be less appealing for short-term visitors?

The Carlsberg Brewery Tour is very popular among tourists, but if you’re visiting briefly, you might prefer the more laid-back and locally loved Mikkeller Brewery, which offers craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere.

Is the Copenhagen Opera House worth visiting for everyone?

The Copenhagen Opera House is impressive with great harbor views, but it is costly if you’re not attending a performance; a walk in the nearby Nyboder neighborhood provides a charming, cost-free experience.

What attractions in Copenhagen are considered less impressive, and what should visitors consider instead?

Attractions such as Gefion Fountain, Stork Fountain, and Copenhagen Zoo can be underwhelming; visitors might enjoy Kultorvet Square, the Botanical Garden, or Rundetaarn for a more memorable and authentic experience.