Summers in Denmark may be short, but the days are long, making it easy to make the most of the fine weather in Copenhagen. The city boasts a variety of parks, from exquisite palace gardens and botanical havens to hidden oases and vast recreational spaces. It is commonly said that in the city center, you’re never more than a 15-minute walk from a lovely garden or park.
Kongens Have
Kongens Have (the King’s Garden) was originally a pleasure garden for the Danish Royal family and became the setting for their summer home, Rosenborg Castle, in 1606. Opened to the public in the 18th century, it has remained a local favorite for strolling, picnicking, and soaking up the sun. The garden features tree-lined avenues, a children’s playground, and a beautiful rose garden that offers some of the best views of Rosenborg.
Interesting statues are scattered throughout, including one of the beloved fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen, who spent most of his life in Copenhagen.
Superkilen
Just outside Copenhagen’s Indre By tourist center lies Nørrebro, a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood. One of its standout attractions is Superkilen, a sprawling 30,000-sq-m (322,917-sq-ft) park co-designed by renowned Danish architect Bjarke Ingels. The park aims to unite the diverse nationalities living in the area, featuring designated spaces such as the Red Square for recreation, the Black Market for social interactions, and the Green Square for picnics and sports.
Superkilen showcases items from around the world, including a boxing ring from Thailand, an octopus-shaped children’s slide from Japan, and a mosaic fountain from Morocco, offering a unique exploration opportunity for architecture and photography enthusiasts.
Copenhagen Botanical Garden
The Copenhagen Botanical Garden is a tranquil haven nestled next to the bustling Nørreport commuter hub. Spanning 10 hectares (25 acres), it harbors Denmark’s largest collection of living plants, with over 13,000 species. Visitors can enjoy picturesque walking trails, a rhododendron garden, a serene lake inhabited by turtles, and several greenhouses displaying exotic plants. The 19th-century Palm House features an array of plants from various climates, and during warmer months, the Butterfly House allows visitors to observe butterflies up close.
Østre Anlæg
Østre Anlæg, one of Copenhagen’s wildest parks, is part of the city’s medieval fortification system. Visitors can still see remnants of the old ramparts and bastions within the park’s hilly landscape, which includes three lakes that were once part of the moat. A network of paths winds through the park, which is also home to various sculptures and monuments. Its diverse flora attracts abundant wildlife, including numerous bird species.
Assistens Kirkegård
Assistens Kirkegård serves as the resting place for many notable Danes, including author Hans Christian Andersen and philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. This cemetery is more than just a burial site; it is a green sanctuary featuring winding paths through lush landscapes. In spring, cherry trees bloom magnificently, while in autumn, the vibrant foliage becomes a stunning sight. All year round, it offers a serene refuge from the urban hustle while allowing visitors to engage with Danish cultural history.
Frederiksberg Have
Located in the upscale neighborhood of Frederiksberg, the expansive Frederiksberg Have spans 32 hectares (79 acres) and is perfect for summer enjoyment. Overlooking the historic Frederiksberg Palace, the garden is filled with flowing waterways, a colony of blue herons, and a charming Chinese royal summer house from 1799. During summer, a boat service operates, allowing visitors to explore the waterways just as King Frederik VI did in the 1800s.
Kastellet
Kastellet (the Citadel), dating back to 1626, is a star-shaped fortress situated at the northern edge of the city center. While it remains an active military site, its grounds are accessible to the public and serve as a popular area for walking and jogging. Strolling along the ramparts provides scenic views and the chance to admire historic buildings, including a Dutch-style windmill from the 19th century.
Ørstedsparken
Ørstedsparken, a green oasis in the bustling Nørreport area, sits where Copenhagen’s historic ramparts once existed. The park’s centerpiece is a picturesque lake surrounded by trees and flowerbeds, bisected by elegant pedestrian bridges. During summer, the grassy slopes along the lake are frequented by sunbathers, while winter transforms the park into a popular destination for sledding enthusiasts.
Det Kongelige Biblioteks Have
Informally known as Bibliotekshaven (the Library Garden), this small park offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, nestled between the Royal Library and Christiansborg Palace. With lush trees and beautiful flowerbeds surrounding a pond featuring a striking 26ft copper water sculpture, it is perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or a relaxing afternoon picnic.
Søndermarken
Adjacent to Frederiksberg Have, Søndermarken is a large park characterized by its diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and tree-lined avenues. It is a beloved location for jogging, walking, and hosting concerts and festivals. The park is home to the Cisterns, an underground museum showcasing changing art exhibitions and a historical Chinese pavilion, along with a Memorial Mound honoring Danes who immigrated to North America.
This content serves as a comprehensive guide to enjoying the beautiful parks of Copenhagen during the summer, enriching your experience with the city’s lush landscapes and historical significance.
