Copenhagen often conjures images of stylish design, hygge cafes, and a famously high cost of living. In fact, Copenhagen’s cost-of-living index (~85.7 in 2026) consistently ranks it among the world’s priciest cities. Yet city residents reveal a different reality: many of their favorite pastimes cost little or nothing. A jog through a historical cemetery-park, a self-guided canal jaunt, or lingering over church art can be as satisfying as a paid attraction. This guide, drawn from local insight and our own years wandering Copenhagen, highlights seven exceptional low-cost experiences. Each entry combines cultural context with practical tips—so you can explore Denmark’s capital in depth, on a shoestring.
Assistens Cemetery (Assistens Kirkegård) exemplifies Copenhagen’s unique approach to public space. Founded in 1760 as the city’s main burial ground, it sprawls across 10 hectares of Norrebro. Today it’s not just a cemetery but a beloved green park. Copenhageners jog its pathways and picnic on its lawns as readily as they would in any park. The transformation reflects Danish sensibilities: here, the living commune gently with the memory of the famous dead.
Rather than viewing cemeteries as off-limits, Danes treat Assistens as a “churchyard-turned-city park”. Its grave-lined paths are now Norrebro’s favorite green escape. In spring 2023, sakura (Japanese cherry) trees along the main avenues bloom in pastel pink, drawing crowds of Copenhageners for sunset picnics. Joggers, parents pushing strollers, and sunbathers all share this quiet space. The Danish idea is clear: death and daily life coexist peacefully. A historian notes that Assistens “challenges the often stark division between spaces for the living and the dead,” making it a living cultural asset. In winter and autumn, leaf-peeping and solemn strolls bring a contemplative air to the headstones.
While wandering its grassy squares, look for the memorials of several of Denmark’s luminaries: the cemetery hosts Hans Christian Andersen, Søren Kierkegaard, Niels Bohr, and others. Andersen (1805–1875) and Kierkegaard (1813–1855) are the most celebrated. Andersen’s white marble gravestone lies in one section (his final resting place). Nearby, a simple stone marks philosopher Kierkegaard’s family grave. Nobel-winning physicist Niels Bohr (d.1962) and pioneering scientist H.C. Ørsted share this ground. Literature enthusiasts will spot author Martin Andersen Nexø (who wrote Pelle the Conqueror), and art lovers can find the painter Christen Købke among the older plots. Signs and maps (in English and Danish) guide curious visitors to these graves.
Assistens is alive with local tradition. In summer, Copenhageners stretch out on blankets near Andersen’s memorial or on the central lawn; children climb the mossy sarcophagi as if on playground playsets. Photographers savor the dappled light through chestnut trees. In late afternoon the park often smells of fresh bread from a nearby bakery, as families stroll in with picnic baskets. Respectful behavior is expected (keep voices low and feet off the graves), but no formal admission is required—this is a free space open to all. Each season brings a different scene: leaf fall paints paths amber in autumn, and under winter frost the bare gravestones offer a hushed beauty.
Denmark’s National Museum (Nationalmuseet) on Ny Vestergade 10 is a treasure trove of Nordic and world history. It charts 14,000 years of human activity from the last Ice Age through the Viking era and Renaissance up to today. Admission policies make much of it virtually free: all under-18 visitors enter free, and those carrying the Copenhagen Card can go in gratis. (Adult tickets are about DKK 150, which still undercuts most major attractions.) This sprawling museum is arguably the best “bang for your krones” in town, spanning archaeology, art, and cultural history across dozens of halls.
The sheer scope of the National Museum is hard to overstate. In a single visit you can see Danish royal jewels, Viking swords, prehistoric tools, and global ethnographic displays—normally features of multiple paid venues elsewhere. For example, one of its prized exhibits is the Bronze Age Sun Chariot of Trundholm (ca. 1400 BC), a gilded horse-drawn sculpture symbolizing the sun’s journey. Elsewhere are Neolithic flint implements, medieval church art, and even a full 19th-century Copenhagen apartment preserved in exquisite detail (see Hidden Gem below). Compared to buying separate entry tickets for multiple sites, spending a couple of hours here gives an immersive crash-course in Danish civilization.
To avoid being overwhelmed, focus on highlights:
Hidden Gem – The Victorian Apartment: Don’t miss the fully restored Klunkehjemmet (Victorian Home) inside the National Museum. This 1890s high-society apartment has original wallpaper, furniture and decor. Daily guided tours (often included with museum admission) let you step back into 19th-century life. Seeing an authentic turn-of-the-century flat in person is a rare experience and completely free with museum entry.
Gliding under Copenhagen’s bridges is a classic perspective. A canal tour shows off Nyhavn’s rainbow-row houses, the gilded Opera, the Little Mermaid from the water, and Copenhagen’s industrial past. Dozens of tour operators ply the waterways, but prices vary wildly. Here’s how to get the most for your money on the harbor.
Waterways were Copenhagen’s lifeblood for centuries. A boat tour isn’t just picturesque – it’s historically illuminating. From the water you’ll see centuries-old shipping houses (Børsen, Church of Holmen) and get close-up views of modern waterfront life in Christianshavn and Refshaleøen. As one local guide says, “A canal tour is Copenhagen in five minutes” – it lets you sip coffee on deck while history goes by. Importantly for budget travelers, a brief boat trip can replace multiple expensive attractions, and most of the sights along the route are free to admire.
Operator | Typical Price | Duration | Departure Points | Pros & Cons |
Netto-Bådene (Budget)** | ~DKK 60 ($8) | ~60 min | Nyhavn (Anchor – Ved Stranden) | Pros: Lowest price by far; open seating; multilingual recorded commentary. Cons: No frills, often standing-room only; cash only. |
DFDS Canal Tours (Stromma) | DKK 120–150 ($17–$21) | ~60 min | Nyhavn, Gammel Strand | Pros: Frequent, covered seating options, live guides in summer. Cons: About double Netto’s price; same landmarks. |
Hey Captain & Others | DKK 100–130 ($14–18) | 50–60 min | Various piers in Nyhavn | Pros: Smaller boats, smoother experience. Cons: Prices closer to DFDS; often need advance booking. |
GoBoat Self-Drive | DKK 200–300 per boat (4 ppl) | 60–90 min | Holmen Narrows | Pros: Private group experience; kids love steering. Cons: More expensive per person; weather-dependent; you do the rowing. |
Travelers note that Netto-Bådene’s DKK 60 rate is about half of the 160+ DKK charged by premium tours. Thus Netto-Bådene clearly wins on cost. The key trade-off is comfort: arrive early to secure seating, and expect a bit of spray on windy days. DFDS/Stromma tours, by contrast, offer covered decks and a narrated storyline (but at roughly twice the cost). We recommend: if your budget is tight, book the Netto boat from Nyhavn. If you have room in the wallet and less time, a DFDS/Stromma tour is smoother.
The Harbor Bus Secret: An even cheaper “canal” ride is to hop on Copenhagen’s Harbor Bus (routes 991/992). This yellow public transit boat runs routes like Nyhavn→Operahuset→Christiania for just a standard 1-zone transit fare (~14 DKK). Locals often use it for commuting, but riders get the same waterside views (albeit with a commuter-boat vibe). It’s a great tip: take the 991 from Nyhavn to Christianshavn and see many landmarks for literally the price of a sandwich.
If even DKK 60 feels steep, remember Copenhagen’s public boats (harbor buses) offer scenic transport for the cost of a bus ticket. Alternatively, simply strolling along the canals can be delightful – try the bridge at Knippelsbro or the windy path around Christianshavn to glimpse the Opera and island forts from land. No watercraft needed to enjoy views of The Little Mermaid (from Langelinie) or the canal-front architecture.
Strøget is often thought of as Copenhagen’s shopping mile, but it’s really a cultural boulevard in itself. When closed to cars in 1962, Strøget (which spans about 1.1 km from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv) became Europe’s first major pedestrian shopping street. Today you can amble end-to-end and enjoy free sights at every step.
Originally a medieval market street, Strøget’s gradual transformation into a pedestrian zone revolutionized urban life. Its wide, cobbled expanse passes through some of Copenhagen’s most historic plazas. Along the route you’ll encounter:
– Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square): An open plaza dominated by the red City Hall (completed 1905). Look for the bronze statue of Hans Christian Andersen seated on a bench. Nearby stands the Urania World Clock. City Hall’s façade alone is worth a look (Don’t miss the dragon gargoyles atop its roofs).
– Gammeltorv & Nytorv (Old and New Market Squares): Copenhagen’s oldest squares. At Gammeltorv you’ll find the Caritas Fountain (aka the Golden Apple Fountain, 1608) – the only surviving Renaissance fountain in Denmark. Cobblestone steps and historic townhouses, often with street performers in view, line these connected plazas.
– Amagertorv: The heart of Strøget. Here stands the famous Stork Fountain (Storkespringvandet, 1894) – locals say midwives would dance around it in joy upon the birth of royal babies. Nearby is the flagship Illum department store and the Royal Copenhagen porcelain shop (for a quick look, not shopping!).
– Højbro Plads: A quieter square where a statue of Bishop Absalon (founder of Copenhagen, 1100s) on horseback gazes toward Christiansborg Palace. The creative design of the Opera House is visible across the harbor from here.
– Kongens Nytorv (King’s New Square): The eastern terminus of Strøget, facing the marble church (Frederik’s Church) and the Nyhavn canal entrance. Landmarks here include the Royal Danish Theatre and Hotel d’Angleterre. This ornate Baroque square is a classic photo spot.
Start at City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen). Outside City Hall, admire the Andersen statue. From there, head north into the cobbled lane. Pause at Gammeltorv to toss a coin into the Caritas Fountain (a tradition for wishes). Continue to Amagertorv, where children often queue to make a wish at the bronze storks. By mid-block, you’ll pass the iconic Royal Copenhagen Megastore (its large porcelain plates in the windows are free to view). At Højbro Plads, turn left and spot Absalon on his horse. Resume Strøget towards Kongens Nytorv – end of the line.
Copenhagen’s best discoveries are often just off Strøget. If you have time, wander a few blocks into:
– Købmagergade: A parallel street north of Rådhuspladsen. Visit the Round Tower (Rundetårn) for its spiral walkway and city views (entry ~25 DKK). Surrounding arcs house local design shops and the old University Square.
– Pilestræde & Kompagnistræde: Between City Hall and Nytorv, these are packed with cozy cafes, indie boutiques and vintage shops catering to locals rather than tourists. (Look for film posters and alternative art galleries.)
– Kompagnistræde: Near Strøget’s center, home to antique dealers and craft bookstores. Perfect for finding a rare book or Danish design knick-knack.
– Latin Quarter (Studiestræde/Larsbjørnsstræde/etc.): East of Pilestræde, this hip enclave around the University is full of jazz clubs, tiny record stores, and historically has a bohemian vibe.
Even without buying anything, Strøget is lively entertainment. Listen to the open-air jazz or rock bands that set up near Nytorv on summer evenings, and admire the Baroque architecture of the surrounding buildings. At Amagertorv, watch the fountain pigeons. Peek into the free Air Museum (Illum basement) for contemporary art. When hunger pangs hit, opt for budget bites from nearby hole-in-the-wall shops (see Section 9 on eating cheaply). Don’t miss the graceful Ansgar’s Cathedral (inside stores on Amagertorv, free entry) for a quiet moment amid the crowd.
The Pistolstræde Secret: Tucked between Magasin department store and the Løngangstræde alley is Pistolstræde, a short, L-shaped alley whose name and shape hint at a pistol’s outline. At its bend is a quirky Magpie Fountain (by sculptor Gunnar Westman, 1980) – a stylized bird spouting water into a barrel. This tiny square is almost always empty of the Strøget crowds. It’s one of Strøget’s best-kept secrets: sit by the fountain and enjoy a moment of peace amid the shopping frenzy.
Denmark’s capital houses an astonishing variety of church architecture, all open to visitors without ticket. Each of Copenhagen’s major churches showcases a different chapter of European design, yet each entrance is free (with optional paid tower climbs). For the budget-minded visitor, these churches are living museums of art, history, and quiet reflection.
Churches in Copenhagen are free by tradition, funded by the state or community. But free entry isn’t their only appeal: they are cultural landmarks and oases of quiet. Their interiors contain masterpieces of sculpture, painting and craftsmanship. As one architectural historian notes, the city’s sanctuaries form a tapestry of styles — from Neoclassical to Gothic to Expressionist — rarely seen this densely in one place. Importantly, visiting a church requires no time ticket, and you’ll often be the only visitor apart from worshippers. It’s not uncommon to enjoy a full organ rehearsal or choir practice gratis if you’re lucky.
Each of these four exemplifies a different era and offers something special. All are free to enter (towers or domes sometimes charge a small fee).
To see multiple churches, a loop on foot is easy: Start at Vor Frue Kirke (right off Strøget) then walk south through the Latin Quarter to Frederik’s Church (next to Amalienborg). Next, cross the harbor to Christianshavn for the Church of Our Saviour. For Grundtvig’s Church, it’s a short bus ride north. In one day you can cover 3–4 churches if you move briskly. Photography lovers may prefer a solo wander to absorb details (no one minds a visitor sketching or photographing, as long as it’s respectful).
Church | Founded/Style | Highlights | Hours (approx) | Tower/Dome Climb | Cost |
Vor Frue Kirke (Cathedral) | 1829 (Neoclassical) | Thorvaldsen’s marble Christ & Apostles; old altarpiece | Daily ~8:00–17:00 (times vary) | No tower climb (22m bell tower) | FREE |
Marble Church (Frederik’s) | 1754–1894 (Rococo) | Largest dome (31m span); Rococo interior | Daily ~10:00–17:00 (noon sun on dome) | Dome climb free (must book) | FREE |
Our Saviour’s (Vor Frelsers) | 1682–1696 (Baroque) | Iconic 400-step spire (85m); golden globe view; 17th c. interiors | Apr–Sept 9:00–19:00; Oct–Mar 9:00–17:00 | Tower climb ~65 DKK | Church FREE |
Grundtvig’s Church | 1921–1940 (Expressionist) | Organ-like brick façade; exceptional acoustics; peaceful crypt | Mon–Sat 9:00–16:00 (Sun 12:00–16:00) | No public climb (tower only) | FREE |
Table: Overview of Copenhagen’s major churches. Times vary by day and season; always verify current hours online.
Tivoli Gardens is arguably Copenhagen’s most famous attraction, but its charm extends beyond the rides and fairs. Even on a budget, a visit to Tivoli’s historic gardens and entertainment can be a highlight of your trip. Consider it a cultural park steeped in tradition: Walt Disney reportedly drew inspiration from Tivoli for Disneyland. Opened in 1843, Tivoli is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. It remains dear to locals for its Christmas lights and summer concerts, not just its roller coasters.
Most visitors imagine the thrill rides or the famed night illuminations. But remember: you don’t need to buy a ride ticket to soak up Tivoli’s atmosphere. The gardens alone — with live peacocks, ornate pavilions, and seasonal blooms — are free to explore once you’re inside. Many of its folk music and rock concerts, theater shows, and pantomime plays are included with the garden entry. Locals often come simply to stroll, people-watch, or attend the Friday evening “Fredagsrock” concert without paying for any rides. Even grabbing an affordable grilled sandwich from a stand and sitting near the central fountain gives that Tivoli feeling.
Ticket Type | Cost (2026 est.) | Included | Comments |
Standard Day Entry | ~DKK 170 (US$25) | Garden access only | Full-day access to all gardens, shows, and events. No rides. |
Evening Entry (after 7pm) | ~DKK 95–110 ($14–16) | Garden access only | Cheaper late visits. Most concerts and evening illuminations still included. |
Unlimited Ride Pass | ~DKK 320 ($45) | All rides + garden | Over double the basic ticket cost. Only worth it if you plan many rides. |
Tivoli Cards (3-5 rides) | DKK 125 for 3-5 | Entry not included, ride credits | Only buy if already inside; can be shared. |
Entry gets you into the gardens and free entertainment, but all rides and games cost extra.
For a budget visit, skip the ride passes and focus on what’s free inside. Entry alone lets you walk among Tivoli’s historic Chinese Tower and Concert Hall, see classical dancers on stage, and enjoy the gardens at twilight. The biggest splurge is the entrance fee. Buying tickets online in advance can save a few kroner, and the Copenhagen Card includes one Tivoli entry. For example, an adult one-day ticket is currently about DKK 170. (Note: during peak season it can creep up to DKK 175.) Children pay roughly half that.
Tivoli’s cost and ambience shift by season: – Summer (Apr–Sep): Classic gardens in bloom, longest hours. High crowds, standard pricing.
– Halloween (Oct): Park transforms with spooky decorations and special events. Very high demand; tickets often sell out (prices can rise slightly).
– Christmas (Nov–Dec): A most festive time; the park is ablaze with lights and markets. Also very crowded. Premium prices similar to summer.
– “Winter Light” (Feb): Tivoli opens for a few weeks in February with a cozy, fairy-tale vibe. Lowest crowds and significantly lower prices (around half).
(Always check Tivoli.dk for exact dates and hours.)
Pros: The entry-only plan yields most of what makes Tivoli special — the gardens, shows, and atmosphere. The history and design alone justify walking around, especially at night when it’s quietly enchanting. A free concert or parade is a memorable bonus. Many visitors agree that just soaking up the ambience is worth the price.
Cons: If your goal is thrill rides, you won’t get that without further spend. (Each coaster costs extra; the park is not an all-inclusive theme park without the pass.) Also, on peak days you’ll queue a bit at the entrance. If you have limited time, know that other neighborhoods (like Christiania, Nyhavn or outer museums) might give more “bang for buck.” In short: If you’re curious about Copenhagen’s culture, go for a few hours. But don’t feel obligated to buy a ride pass.
Alternatives: Denmark’s original amusement park, Bakken (Dyrehavsbakken), lies 10 km north. It has a handful of rides but free entry (you pay only per ride), making it a genuine budget park. If you skip Tivoli, consider a day at Bakken’s nostalgic wooden coasters (it’s easily reached by S-train to Klampenborg).
The Friday Night Secret: If you only do Tivoli once, make it a Friday night in summer. Your entry ticket includes the Fredagsrock open-air concert with Danish bands. Arrive around 6pm to get a spot by the stage. Locals often combine this with a picnic dinner inside (a common practice), meaning for a single admission you get a garden stroll and a live rock show.
Season | Dates | Atmosphere | Crowds | Price Level |
Summer | Apr–Sept | Lush gardens, long days | High | Standard (DKK 170) |
Halloween | Oct (selected dates) | Spooky lights, pumpkin decor | Very High | Premium |
Christmas | Nov–Dec (selected dates) | Twinkling lights, holiday markets | Very High | Premium |
Winter (Light) | Feb (short season) | Twilit park with winter flowers | Low | Low (around DKK 90) |
Christiania, known as “Freetown,” is Copenhagen’s most controversial and talked-about neighborhood. Started in 1971 when squatters occupied an abandoned military barracks on Christianshavn Island, it remains a self-governing commune. Today it covers about 34 hectares and is home to roughly 850 residents. For travelers, it offers a glimpse of alternative Danish culture — art studios, handcrafted houses, and communal gardens — all without an entry fee. Visiting Christiania is as free as walking through a public park, though it requires cultural sensitivity.
Inside Christiania you’ll encounter brightly painted homes, freeform sculptures, and the infamous Pusher Street market (formerly active). However, note: Christiania is not a sanitized tourist spot. You will see cannabis sellers on what’s still dubbed “Green Light District” (though hard drugs are strictly banned by the community). At this writing (2026), Christiania has decriminalized the open sale of hash in a safer, more regulated way, so it is less chaotic than in the 1990s. You will hear live music from cafés, and often street drumming or folk bands at night. By design, there are no chain stores or public bathrooms (plan ahead). The vibe is artistic, free-spirited, and relaxed by day; some parts can be rowdy by night. Use common sense (see rules below) and you’ll find the stroll uniquely memorable.
Christiania has very clear expectations for guests. Failure to follow them can create conflict (and has, in the past, led to tensions). The main rules are:
A Resident’s Perspective: “In 2025, Freetown feels like any other creative Copenhagen neighborhood,” observes a Christiania tour organizer. “It’s quiet and welcoming — just with more street art and guitar music.” Christiania today emphasizes community arts and sustainability. Locals stress that any visit should be with an attitude of respect and openness to an alternative way of life.
Contrary to sensational media, Christiania today is not exceptionally dangerous. Rates of violent crime are very low (violent incidents in Christiania are roughly on par with downtown Copenhagen). Visitors mostly need to watch out for pickpockets (as in any city). Women and families do walk there during daylight without problems. The main caution is to avoid any drug transactions. Travel writer advice: “Go during the day, stay sober, and move on if anything feels off.” If you remain alert, the vibe is no different from wandering around other Copenhagen neighborhoods. In fact, many say it’s safer than some tourist-packed squares at night.
You can explore Christiania on your own using maps or a local guidebook, which often includes suggested walking paths (note: offline map apps still mark it as a green zone). Alternatively, consider a short guided tour (often led by resident artists) to get insider stories and answers. Tours cost around 100 DKK and run a couple times each day in summer (English language options). A guided approach can help clarify boundaries and history you might otherwise miss. But for a budget visit, a 1–2 hour self-guided walk covers the essentials.
Do’s and Don’ts – Christiania:
– ✅ Respect the space: speak softly, follow posted guidance, support local businesses.
– ✅ Take photos of art and scenery: it’s encouraged, but always ask before photographing people.
– ✅ Enjoy the creativity: soak in the murals, live music, and gardens.
– ❌ Don’t photograph vendors on Pusher Street: cameras should stay down there.
– ❌ No hard drugs or smoking: follow the community’s rules.
– ❌ Don’t run or sprint: it alarms people.
– ❌ Avoid peak party hours: late nights and large drunken crowds can create tension; if you feel unsafe, leave.
Below is an example of how to pack these experiences into one full day, using mostly walking and short transit hops. Adjust timings to your pace and season (e.g., start later in summer).
If you have two days, spread these out:
– Day 1 (City Core): Assistens Cemetery → National Museum → Strøget walking tour (including the “secret” alleys) → Tivoli Gardens evening.
– Day 2 (Local Culture): Morning in Nørrebro (Brunch in Jægersborggade, free view from Superkilen Park) → Afternoon in Christianshavn/Amager (Vor Frelsers Kirke, Christiania) → Tivoli Gardens or bakke concert at night (if Day1 was too short).
Meal Breaks: Include a smørrebrød or sandwich lunch from a supermarket (like Irma or Føtex bakery) each day to save money. For dinner, try cheap eats suggestions (Section 9.2) — one meal might be street food (Reffen or Torvehallerne), another at a local café where menus offer daily specials for ~100 DKK.
Experience | Typical Tourist Cost | Budget Approach (This Guide) | Estimated Savings (DKK) |
Assistens Cemetery | N/A (free) | free | 0 |
National Museum | 150 (entry for adult) | ~0–150 (free for <18s, card holders) | 75 (assuming child/adult mix) |
Canal Tour | ~120-150 | ~60 (Netto-Bådene) | 60–90 |
Strøget walking | N/A | free (self-guided) | 0 |
Churches (4 sites) | N/A | free (towers optional) | 0 |
Tivoli (entry only) | 170 (entry) + 0 (no rides) | 170 (evening 95) | 0–75 (depending on time) |
Total (1 day) | ~500+ (assuming all paid) | ~295 | ~200+ |
Numbers above use 2026 prices. Savings come from choosing free or low-cost options: skipping ride tickets, using free entry policies, etc.
After covering the main seven, there are still plenty of low-cost treats in town. Here are a few quick hits:
Experience and research show that Copenhagen’s reputation as expensive doesn’t preclude a rich, affordable visit. These seven journeys – from quiet cemetery picnics to historic church tours – reveal the city’s soul at minimal cost. The key is the Danish mindset: take pleasure in free public spaces, cultural heritage, and communal life. Whether marveling at Thorvaldsen’s marble angels or cruising the canals on a wallet-friendly boat, you’ll discover Copenhagen’s essence without a princely expense. Now you have the roadmap to do it: wander wisely, ask locals, and savor the details that most tourists miss.
