Copenhagen isn’t just a city for cyclists, design lovers, and New Nordic cuisine enthusiasts. It’s a playground for families. In fact, Denmark ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, and if you’ve ever seen a Danish playground, you’ll understand why.
Picture this: your kids racing up the spiral ramp of The Round Tower, giggling at the thought of being taller than the whole city. Later, they’re shrieking with excitement on a vintage roller coaster at Tivoli Gardens, one that still requires a real human to brake it. No, really. That’s a job here.
But beyond the obvious attractions, Copenhagen is built for families. Stroller-friendly streets, cafes with play corners, and a city culture that doesn’t just tolerate kids, it welcomes them. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, this guide will help you navigate the best family-friendly spots, hidden gems, and smart travel hacks to keep tantrums at bay.
Buckle up. Your Copenhagen adventure starts now.
Key Takeaways
1. Blue Planet: Northern Europe’s largest aquarium. Spot hammerhead sharks, then hit the playground café.
2. Forest Tower: Walk above the treetops for sweeping views of Zealand. Even your dog can join the climb.
3. Copenhagen Zoo: 4,000 animals and a picnic-friendly vibe. Watch polar bears swim up close.
4. Experimentarium: Hands-on science museum for curious minds. Don’t miss the bubble show.
5. Bakken: The world’s oldest amusement park. Entrance is free, and the coaster still has a manual brake.
6. Planetarium: Explore space on Scandinavia’s biggest dome screen. Films in Danish and English for all ages.
7. Tivoli Gardens: Classic rides, fairy lights, and evening magic. It feels like two parks in one – day vs. night.
Spend a day exploring the underwater life at “The Blue Planet”, Denmark’s national aquarium and one of the largest aquariums in northern Europe. The aquarium is home to thousands of animals from north lakes, seas, tropical rivers, and the ocean. Spot the giant goldfish and the hammer shark and explore the colourful coral reef and, of course, many more animals worldwide. After your visit, take a walk to the outdoor playground, where kids can enjoy different fun activities, and the parents can have a cup of coffee at the mini-cafe by the playground. Den Blå Planet is located 7 km from Copenhagen centre and is easily accessible by public transport, bus, and metro.
Family-Friendly Places to Eat in Copenhagen
Exploring a new city with kids means finding dining spots that cater to little appetites and offer a stress-free atmosphere. Here are some family-friendly restaurants and cafés in Copenhagen:
Café Paludan
A cozy book café that serves a diverse menu with plenty of kid-friendly options. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families looking for a casual dining experience.
• Address: Fiolstræde 10-12, 1171 København K
• Best For: Breakfast, brunch, and casual dining
• Kid-Friendly Features: High chairs, space for strollers, and a selection of books for kids
Restaurant SULT
Located in the Danish Film Institute, this restaurant offers a delicious brunch buffet with a variety of fresh ingredients, perfect for both kids and adults.
• Address: Vognmagergade 8B, 1120 København K
• Best For: Weekend brunch and casual dining
• Kid-Friendly Features: Play corner, high chairs, and a kid-friendly buffet
Absalon
A unique dining experience where families can join communal dinners. The informal setting allows kids to meet new friends while parents enjoy a budget-friendly meal.
• Address: Sønder Boulevard 73, 1720 København V
• Best For: Community dinners and casual dining
• Kid-Friendly Features: Long communal tables, relaxed atmosphere, and affordable meals
Best Seasonal Activities for Families in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a great destination year-round, but some activities are best enjoyed in specific seasons. Here’s what to do with kids depending on when you visit:
Spring: Parks and Gardens
Spring is perfect for outdoor adventures as the city’s parks come to life.
• Fælledparken: One of Copenhagen’s largest parks with an extensive playground, sports fields, and picnic areas.
• Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden where kids can explore different plant species and a butterfly house.
Summer: Beaches and Outdoor Fun
Warm weather means spending time by the water or attending family-friendly festivals.
• Amager Strandpark: A popular beach with shallow waters, making it ideal for children.
• Open-Air Concerts in Enghaveparken: Enjoy live music in a laid-back setting while kids play in the park.
Autumn: Indoor Attractions
As the weather cools, it’s time to explore Copenhagen’s best indoor attractions.
• The National Aquarium (Den Blå Planet): Scandinavia’s largest aquarium with an immersive ocean tunnel.
• Harvest Festivals: Many farms around Copenhagen offer apple picking, pumpkin patches, and other fun autumn activities.
Winter: Christmas Markets and Ice Skating
Winter in Copenhagen is magical, with festive decorations and fun seasonal activities.
• Christmas Markets: Explore cozy markets at Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, and Kongens Nytorv.
• Ice Skating Rinks: Lace up your skates at Frederiksberg Runddel or Broens Ice Rink for a fun winter activity.
Conclusion: Make Every Moment Count in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a city that makes traveling with kids feel effortless. From castles straight out of storybooks to interactive museums where kids are encouraged to touch everything, every corner of the city offers something to spark curiosity. Even the metro stations feel like an adventure, watch your kids’ faces light up when they see the driverless trains.
So what’s next? You’ve got the must-visit attractions. You know where to grab a meal without side-eye from child-free diners. You even have a seasonal game plan. Now, it’s time to make some memories.
Because let’s be honest, you’re not going to remember every detail of the trip. But your kids? They’ll remember the rush of whizzing down a massive spiral slide at the Experimentarium. The taste of their first Danish hotdog (pølse, if you want to sound local). And the magic of Tivoli Gardens at dusk, fairy lights flickering in their eyes.
Book your flights. Pack light (but bring rain jackets, this is Denmark, after all). And get ready for a family trip you’ll talk about for years.
If you are planning a family trip to Copenhagen and want to explore the best attractions – book a custom tour with Amitylux and let our knowledgeable guides show you Copenhagen from an insider’s perspective.FAQ
Yes! Copenhagen is one of the most family-friendly cities in the world. It has safe, walkable streets, stroller-accessible public transport, kid-friendly museums, and plenty of green spaces and playgrounds.
Visit Tivoli Gardens for rides and entertainment, explore the National Museum’s Children’s Museum, see animals at Copenhagen Zoo, climb The Round Tower, and engage in hands-on science fun at Experimentarium.
Østerbro is the best for families—quiet, green, and packed with playgrounds. Vesterbro (especially around Carlsberg City) is also great, with family-friendly cafés and cultural attractions.
Beyond Copenhagen, visit Legoland Billund, Givskud Zoo, The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (which has an amazing kids’ wing), and the Aarhus Old Town Museum for a hands-on history experience.
