*affiliate links
When thinking about booking a city break the first thing I need to consider before going any further is 'Is it a family friendly city?' Although little J isn't a young child he still enjoys activities suitable for kids and if it was all just museums and history he would get bored. We like to find a city with a nice balance and Copenhagen combines historical charm with fun attractions. Also it helps that Copenhagen is often hailed as one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe. For parents like us looking for a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable city break with the kids, family-friendly Copenhagen offers a wide array of experiences that cater to all ages. From amusement parks to interactive museums, this vibrant city has something for everyone.
Make The Most Of Your Visit To Copenhagen With The Copenhagen Card and Visit Viator and buy your Copenhagen Card Here*
Safe and Easy to Navigate
One of the first things you'll notice about Copenhagen is how safe and welcoming it feels, especially for families. As soon as we landed and we were greeted by passport control we felt very welcome. I had researched the crime rate in Copenhagen before we booked and it is low, apart from pickpockets (which unfortunately are in every city!). This does make it a reassuring choice for parents traveling with children and you want to feel safe whilst exploring.
Speaking of exploring I felt very safe walking around but if walking is not for you then Copenhagen’s public transportation system is efficient and very family-friendly. Whether you’re hopping on a bus, taking a train, or riding the metro, you'll find it easy to navigate the city with strollers and young children in tow. For a more leisurely way to explore, consider the Stromma hop-on hop-off buses, which offer a convenient and stress-free way to see the city's top attractions at your own pace.
Family Friendly Copenhagen Attractions
You've booked your trip to Copenhagen so now you need to plan what family friendly attractions you want to visit in Copenhagen. There are lots to choose from and would come down to personal preference but here are a few of our highlights.
Tivoli Gardens: A Historical Amusement Park in the Heart of the City
No visit to Copenhagen with kids would be complete without a trip to Tivoli Gardens. Founded in 1843, Tivoli is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of the city, Tivoli Gardens is more than just an amusement park; it’s a magical place where history meets fun. The park is adorned with beautiful gardens, charming old-world architecture, and a lake that adds to its serene ambiance.
Tivoli offers a wide variety of rides that cater to all ages, from gentle carousels for the little ones to thrilling roller coasters for the more adventurous. During the evening, the park lights up with thousands of fairy lights, creating a whimsical atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. In addition to the rides, Tivoli hosts live performances, including concerts and pantomimes, making it a cultural experience as well as a fun-filled day out.
Our visit to Tivoli was so much fun and I would highly recommend it. If you have a Copenhagen Card you will get access to the gardens and you can then choose should you wish to pay for individual rides, buy a ride pass or just enjoy the experience.
Copenhagen Zoo: A Close Encounter with Wildlife
Another must-visit attraction in family-friendly Copenhagen is the Copenhagen Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Located in the Frederiksberg district, the zoo is home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 200 species. It’s a fantastic place for children to learn about wildlife conservation and see animals up close. The zoo's highlights include the Elephant House, designed by renowned British architect Sir Norman Foster, and the Arctic Ring, where visitors can observe polar bears swimming underwater.
Copenhagen Zoo is well-equipped with family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and child-friendly restaurants. The zoo also offers interactive experiences, such as feeding times and animal talks, where kids can learn more about their favourite animals from the knowledgeable staff.
Museum of Illusions: A Mind-Bending Experience
We planned our visit to Museum of Illusions and I am so glad we did. It's a 'must do'; unique and educational experience that the kids will love. The interactive museum is a playground for the mind, filled with optical illusions, holograms, and mind-bending puzzles is so much fun for both children and adults.The museum encourages hands-on exploration, making it a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about perception, vision, and the human brain.
The Museum of Illusions is located in the city centre, making it easy to include in your day of sightseeing. It's the perfect place to escape the weather if it’s a rainy day and is sure to spark curiosity and wonder in children of all ages.
Guinness World Records Museum: Discover the Extraordinary
The Guinness World Records Museum is another family-friendly attraction that promises to entertain and educate. We hadn't planned on visiting but stumbled upon it whilst visiting the Nyhavn area. The museum showcases record-breaking achievements from around the world, from the tallest man to the longest fingernails, and everything in between. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits that allow kids to test their own skills and see how they measure up against world records.
Located near the famous Nyhavn harbour, the Guinness World Records Museum is an excellent stop on your exploration of Copenhagen’s vibrant waterfront area. It’s an attraction that combines fun with learning, inspiring kids to dream big and achieve extraordinary things.
Changing of the Guard: A Royal Experience
For a touch of royal tradition, don’t miss the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family. Every day at noon, the Royal Guard marches from their barracks near Rosenborg Castle to Amalienborg, where they perform the ceremonial changing of the guard. It’s a captivating spectacle that children will enjoy, complete with the sound of drums and the sight of guards in their distinctive uniforms.
The changing of the guard is a free event and offers a great opportunity for families to experience a piece of Danish culture and history.
Please make sure you arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. It becomes very busy very quickly and we noticed lots of people on bikes so they took up a lot of space.
Stromma Canal Cruise: A Relaxing Way to See the City
In my opinion there's no better way to view a city than from the water. The Stromma Canal Cruise is a guided boat tour offering a relaxing and scenic way to explore the city’s historic canals and waterways. The cruise takes you past some of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks, including the colourful houses of Nyhavn, the majestic Amalienborg Palace, and the impressive Opera House.
Stromma canal cruises are family-friendly and provide an excellent opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the city’s sights without the hustle and bustle of the streets. The boats are equipped with comfortable seating and offer informative commentary in multiple languages, ensuring that everyone in the family can appreciate the rich history and culture of Copenhagen.
There is a part of the cruise when you are on open water and it got very windy and very cold all of a sudden so make sure you are prepared with suitable clothing.
The Round Tower: A Panoramic View of the City
For a breathtaking view of Copenhagen, take the family to the Round Tower, Europe’s oldest functioning observatory. Built in the 17th century, the tower is an architectural marvel with its unique spiral ramp that leads to the top. The climb is gentle enough for kids and the view from the top is well worth the effort. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Copenhagen’s skyline, with its spires, rooftops, and green spaces stretching out before you.
The Round Tower also houses a small exhibition space and a library hall, where you can learn more about the history of the tower and its significance in Danish astronomy. It’s an educational experience that combines history, science, and stunning vistas, making it a must-visit for families.
There is a small shop at the top of the tower than sells souvenirs and refreshments.
A Perfect Family-Friendly Destination
Copenhagen truly stands out as a family-friendly destination, offering a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment for visitors of all ages. From the historical charm of Tivoli Gardens to the educational wonders of the Museum of Illusions and the Guinness World Records Museum, there is no shortage of activities to keep the kids entertained. The city’s excellent public transport system, along with the convenience of Stromma hop-on hop-off buses and canal cruises, makes it easy to explore all that family-friendly Copenhagen has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, Copenhagen promises a memorable experience that will delight every member of the family.
- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.
- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials.
- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.
- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details
Michelle
No comments
Post a Comment
Thanks for your comments. I love reading them :)