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You know we love a good theme park. However except for visiting Disney parks we have never visited a theme park outside of the UK. When we were planning our Copenhagen trip I knew we would all love to visit Tivoli Gardens. Tivoli is
included in the Copenhagen Card and the amusement park has inspired many over the years, including Walt Disney, who visited the park before creating Disneyland. With so much history and amazing rides visiting Tivoli gardens as part of your city break to Copenhagen is a must!
What To Expect At Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli is right in the heart of Copenhagen which makes this park unique as it's in the middle of the city. It's just across the road from Copenhagens main train station and was a 5 minute walk from the hotel we stayed in,
Profilhotels Mercur.
The amusement park offers something for everyone whether you like rides, strolling around gardens, watching shows or playing carnival type games. We loved the park during the day however when the night falls Tivoli becomes something even more magical with twinkling lights across the park.
Must-Do Experiences in Tivoli
Tivoli is much more than just an amusement park; it’s an experience. Here are some of the must-do activities that you shouldn't miss during your visit.
Stroll Through the Gardens
Before you dive into the rides and attractions, take a leisurely stroll through Tivoli’s beautifully landscaped gardens. The park offers a variety of flowers, trees, and water features that create a serene and enchanting environment. The gardens are dotted with picturesque pavilions, fountains, and sculptures, making it the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. During the evening, the entire park is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, adding to the magical ambiance.
Experience the Rides
Tivoli offers a mix of rides, from the gentle to the adrenaline-pumping, catering to all ages. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, the Dæmonen (The Demon) is a must-ride. This roller coaster reaches speeds of up to 77 km/h and features loops and twists that will get your heart racing. For something more nostalgic, hop on Rutschebanen, one of the world’s oldest wooden roller coasters, which has been thrilling visitors since 1914. It’s a ride that perfectly captures the charm of Tivoli, blending tradition with excitement.
For a bird’s eye view of Copenhagen, take a spin on the Star Flyer or Fatamorgana , offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
If you’re visiting with young children, the Flying Trunk is a delightful ride that takes you through scenes from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales.
Catch a Show
Tivoli is not just about rides; it’s also offers a variety of live performances. The Pantomime Theatre is a unique attraction, offering traditional pantomime shows with no dialogue, where the story is told through mime, dance, and music. The theatre itself is an architectural gem, designed in the style of a Chinese pagoda.
During the summer months, Tivoli’s open-air stage hosts concerts and performances by international artists, as well as the Tivoli Youth Guard’s parades and concerts. The Tivoli Concert Hall is another venue where you can enjoy classical music, ballet, and contemporary performances. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of your visit to see what’s on.
Indulge in the Culinary Delights
Tivoli is home to a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants. If you’re looking for a quick bite, try the traditional Danish smørrebrød at one of the park’s cafes.
During your visit, make sure to indulge in some traditional Danish pastries from Vaffelbageriet, a beloved institution in Tivoli. The freshly made waffles, served with ice cream and jam, are a treat you won’t want to miss.
Explore Tivoli’s Seasonal Events
Tivoli is a year-round destination, with each season bringing its own unique charm. In spring, the gardens come alive with blooming flowers, while summer offers long days and warm nights perfect for outdoor concerts and rides. Autumn transforms Tivoli into a Halloween wonderland, with pumpkins, spooky decorations, and themed events. If you’re visiting during the winter, Tivoli’s Christmas market is a must-see. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive lights, holiday decorations, and cozy stalls selling mulled wine, Christmas ornaments, and gifts.
Tips for Visiting Tivoli
To make the most of your visit to Tivoli, here are some helpful tips:
Timing
Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially during the peak summer months. If you prefer a more romantic and magical experience, visit in the evening when the park is beautifully lit up. We visited just the two of us one evening and it really is magical and we were able to watch the illuminations on the water. It was such a different experience than during the day.
Plan Your Day
We planned a full day at Tivoli and we thought that was plenty of time. We could have easily done another day. We did everything we wanted however we didn't have time for re-rides which was a shame. Time seemed to fly past so quickly.
Ride Passes
You can enjoy Tivoli without buying their ride pass however if you’re planning to go on several rides, it’s worth buying an unlimited ride pass. The pass is in the form of a wristband that you scan on the entrance to the ride and it allows you to enjoy as many rides as you like without worrying about individual ticket costs.
Lockers
Tivoli has lockers available for rent if you need to store your belongings. They are located at the main entrance area so easily accessible during the day.
Carnival Games
We had lots of fun playing the carnival style games where you collect tokens to claim prizes should you win. It was lots of fun however we did get a little carried away as you can pay on card so make sure you stick to your budget!
Tivoli on the Copenhagen Card
One of the best ways to
explore Copenhagen is with the Copenhagen Card, which offers
free entry to over 80 attractions including Tivoli Gardens. The card is a great value for money, as it includes public transport and access to many of the city's top sights. With the Copenhagen Card, you can enjoy the beautiful gardens, the unique architecture, and the vibrant atmosphere of Tivoli at no additional cost. However, if you're in the mood for some thrilling rides, you can easily purchase a ride pass separately.
