Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Amitylux

The Best Five Architectural Sites in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a city that doesn’t play by the rules when it comes to architecture. It’s where royal palaces sit next to cutting-edge modern designs, where a power plant doubles as a ski slope, and where the oldest observatory in Europe has no stairs—just a giant spiral ramp. This city is bold, experimental, and effortlessly cool, blending history and innovation in ways few places can.

In fact, Copenhagen was named UNESCO’s World Capital of Architecture in 2023—a well-deserved title for a city that constantly redefines urban design. It’s home to Bjarke Ingels’ futuristic creations, historic Renaissance castles, and hidden architectural gems that most tourists never see.

But where do you start? Should you marvel at the Baroque elegance of Amalienborg Palace, get lost in the mesmerizing brickwork of Grundtvig’s Church, or explore the sleek waterfront masterpiece of the Black Diamond? The answer is all of the above.

This guide takes you through the best buildings in Copenhagen, from iconic landmarks to contemporary marvels. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a casual traveler, or just someone who appreciates a city that knows how to mix the old with the new, you’re in for something special. Let’s dive in.

Architectural Sites in Copenhagen

8House

Located in the trendy Ørestad neighborhood, the 8House is a housing complex designed with community, activity, and family in mind. The building connects 476 homes and has two intimate interior courtyards. In 2011, the building was selected as the winner of the Housing Category at the World Architecture Festival.

An outside photo of 8House | The Best Five Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Amitylux Tours | Scandinavian Guided Tours | VIP & Luxury Experiences in the Nordics

8House | Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Richard Mortensens Vej, 2300 København

Kastrup Sea Bath

Located in the beautiful seaside park Amager Strandpark, the Kastrup Sea Bath is a beloved swimming and recreational space all year round. This wooden structure is shaped in a way that protects swimmers and divers against the wind and is equipped with changing facilities, showers, and diving boards.

Kastrup Sea Bath | The Best Five Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Amitylux Tours | Scandinavian Guided Tours | VIP & Luxury Experiences in the Nordics

Kastrup Sea Bath | Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Amager Strandvej 301, 2770 Kastrup

The Black Diamond

The Black Diamond, built as an extension to the Royal Library, is located right by the harbourfront in the inner city. The large black glass facade reflects the sky and the water outside, offering stunning city views for those working inside. Besides being a library, the building also houses a concert hall, a café, and The National Museum of Photography.

The Black Diamond | The Best Five Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Amitylux Tours | Scandinavian Guided Tours | VIP & Luxury Experiences in the Nordics

The Black Diamond | Architectural Sites in Copenhagen

Urban Rigger

Designed by the Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), the Urban Rigger is a student housing project to assist in affordable housing utilizing the harbour. The housing comprises floating shipping containers, which can be altered and replicated in other harbour cities. Moreover, it is close to Reffen’s street food market, the international art centre Copenhagen Contemporary, and other creative and unique projects and businesses.

Urban Rigger | The Best Five Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Amitylux Tours | Scandinavian Guided Tours | VIP & Luxury Experiences in the Nordics

Urban Rigger | Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Refshalevej 163A, 1432 København

Axel Towers

The five fused Axel Towers are a striking landmark in Copenhagen’s central cityscape. The buildings house office spaces and public amenities like restaurants, cafés, and shops. Also, the urban garden and tidy landscaping help make the towers a pleasurable area for people to hang out in.

Axel Towers | The Best Five Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Amitylux Tours | Scandinavian Guided Tours | VIP & Luxury Experiences in the Nordics

Axel Towers | Architectural Sites in Copenhagen | Axeltorv 2, 1609 København

Historic Landmarks & Iconic Buildings in Copenhagen

Copenhagen’s architecture blends royal history, medieval structures, and Renaissance elegance. These landmarks define the city’s rich past and are must-visit sites for history and architecture lovers.

Nyhavn – The Colorful Heart of Copenhagen

Nyhavn, built in the 17th century, was once a bustling trade harbor filled with sailors and merchants. Today, its vibrant facades house cafes, bars, and restaurants.

• Architectural Style: Baroque-era townhouses

• Notable Fact: House No. 20 was home to Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s famous fairy-tale writer.

• Best Time to Visit: Sunset, when the canal reflects the colors of the buildings.

Rosenborg Castle – A Renaissance Masterpiece

Built in 1606 by King Christian IV, Rosenborg Castle is a stunning example of Dutch Renaissance architecture. It now houses the Danish Crown Jewels and royal collections.

• Architectural Style: Dutch Renaissance

• Highlight: The Knights’ Hall, featuring the coronation thrones and silver lions guarding them.

• Tip: Visit the Royal Gardens surrounding the castle for a peaceful stroll.

The Round Tower – A Spiral Walk with a View

The Round Tower (Rundetaarn), built in 1642, is one of Europe’s oldest functioning observatories. Its spiral ramp (no stairs!) leads to a 360-degree view of the city.

• Architectural Style: Dutch Baroque

• Interesting Fact: Instead of stairs, the 7.5-turn spiral ramp was designed so that the king could ride his horse to the top.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds and clear city views.

Hidden Gems & Unique Architectural Sites

Copenhagen has lesser-known architectural wonders that blend tradition with modern design.

Grundtvig’s Church – A Rare Brick Expressionist Church

Unlike any other church in Denmark, Grundtvig’s Church is an architectural masterpiece of over 5 million bricks. Its tower and stepped gables resemble a Gothic cathedral but with a modern twist.

• Architectural Style: Brick Expressionism

• Designed By: Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint (1927-1940)

• Unique Feature: The interior’s high ceilings and exposed brickwork create a dramatic, minimalist atmosphere.

Axel Towers – Circular Urban Elegance

The Axel Towers are a group of circular golden buildings designed as an alternative to traditional office spaces. These towers blur the line between workspace and public space, incorporating restaurants and terraces.

• Architectural Style: Modern Urban Design

• Designed By: Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects (2017)

• Why Visit? Grab a coffee at the ground-floor café and admire the organic shapes of the buildings.

Royal Danish Playhouse – A Waterfront Cultural Hub

Located on the harborfront, the Royal Danish Playhouse is a striking glass-and-wood structure built for Denmark’s national theater. Its overhanging roof creates a sheltered promenade along the water.

• Architectural Style: Modern Scandinavian Design

• Designed By: Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects (2008)

• Best Feature: At night, the building’s glass walls glow, creating a stunning reflection on the water.

Conclusion

Copenhagen’s architecture is a masterclass in balance. It’s historic without being stuck in the past. It’s modern without being cold. It’s sustainable, creative, and designed with people in mind. From 17th-century castles to glass-and-steel skyscrapers, every building tells a story about the city’s evolution, culture, and future vision.

This isn’t a place that builds just for the sake of it. Everything here has a purpose. Rosenborg Castle? A testament to Denmark’s royal legacy. The Round Tower? A genius solution for astronomy without stairs. CopenHill? Proof that even power plants can be fun.

So, what’s next? Walk the streets. Look up. Notice the details. Whether it’s the intricate carvings on a 400-year-old palace or the way a modern tower reflects the shifting Danish sky, Copenhagen rewards those who pay attention.

And if you want to truly experience this city’s architectural magic? Step inside. Buildings here aren’t just meant to be admired from the outside—they’re meant to be lived in, explored, and enjoyed.

Create A Custom Experience With Amitylux

If you plan a trip to Copenhagen and want to learn more about its architectural diversity and the famous, unique, and exciting projects and designs – book a custom tour with Amitylux and let our knowledgeable guides show you Copenhagen from an insider’s perspective.

  • CopenHill – A power plant with a ski slope.
  • The Black Diamond – Modern waterfront library.
  • 8 House – Infinity-shaped sustainable housing.
  • Grundtvig’s Church – Unique brick expressionist church.
  • Axel Towers – Circular golden office buildings.

The Nyhavn houses. These 17th-century townhouses line the canal and are one of Copenhagen’s most iconic sights.

A mix of Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, and modern Scandinavian architecture. The city is known for historic castles, functionalist designs, and innovative sustainable buildings.

  • Frederiksberg – Upscale, green, and home to beautiful villas.
  • Østerbro – Quiet, elegant, and family-friendly.
  • Hellerup – Coastal luxury with high-end homes.
  • Charlottenlund – Exclusive area with mansions and seaside views.
  • Christianshavn (some parts) – Trendy canalside living.