Exploring Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a city where historic charm meets innovative design, world-class gastronomy, and a relaxed Scandinavian lifestyle. Whether you’re extending your stay before or after CIRSE 2026 or looking to make the most of your free time during the congress, Denmark’s capital offers countless opportunities to explore. Here are some recommendations from the CIRSE 2026 Local Host Committee.

Copenhagens historic brightly colored buildings

Panoramic view of Copenhagen from Rundetårn (Round Tower)

Experience the city like a local

One thing you’ll notice in Copenhagen: bicycles are everywhere. As one of the world’s most bicycle-friendly cities, Copenhagen is compact, safe, and easy to navigate on two wheels, making cycling one of the best ways to experience the Danish capital.

If you’d rather explore on foot, head to Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, but don’t stop there. Local Host Committee members Prof. Lars Lönn and Dr. Joerg Geisler encourage visitors to “take a stroll through Strøget and continue into the old side streets—you’ll discover the real Copenhagen,” with Dr. Geisler adding that “the hygge [a sense of comfort and coziness] is in the tiny side alleys!”

For those who want to experience as many of Copenhagen’s landmarks as possible in a single walk, Dr. Arindam Bharadwaz recommends starting at the Town Hall before continuing on foot to the National Museum, Round Tower, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn, the Botanical Garden, Amalienborg Palace, Kastellet, and The Little Mermaid.

No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a walk through the colourful harbour district of Nyhavn (pronounced like “new-hown”), where historic buildings, cafés, and restaurants line the waterfront and canal boats glide by throughout the day.

Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets

Nyhavn harbor in Copenhagen

Discover Copenhagen’s landmarks

Beyond its famous waterfront, Copenhagen offers an impressive cultural scene. Located next to the iconic Tivoli Gardens theme park, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is home to world-renowned collections of classical sculpture, Impressionist paintings, and a beautiful winter garden. Local Host Committee member Dr. Olle Haller describes it as one of the city’s highlights, noting that “there are many interesting and exclusive museums in Copenhagen, like the art museum Glyptoteket next to Tivoli.”

If it’s your first visit to Copenhagen, Dr. Mika Mäntylä recommends making time for two of the city’s most iconic attractions: The Little Mermaid and Tivoli Gardens, describing them as essential stops for anyone exploring the Danish capital.

For panoramic views of Copenhagen, make your way to the historic Round Tower (Rundetårn). Local Host Committee member Dr. Joerg Geisler describes it as “a must” for taking in the city’s skyline. Afterwards, food lovers can follow his recommendation and take the short walk to Torvehallerne, Copenhagen’s renowned food market. Or, if you’re looking for a quick local favourite, stop by DØP near the Round Tower for a gourmet organic Danish hot dog.

In early September, Local Host Committee member Dr. Ruben Juhl Jensen recommends taking advantage of the late summer weather with a visit to Botanisk Have (the Botanical Garden). “If the weather is good, it’s lovely this time of the year,” he says.

No sightseeing itinerary would be complete without stopping by The Little Mermaid, Copenhagen’s iconic bronze statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale.

Explore the waterfront

Copenhagen is closely connected to its harbour, and the revitalised waterfront is one of the city’s defining features. Walk or cycle along the harbour promenade, admire the striking modern architecture, or relax at one of the harbour baths, where locals often swim during the warmer months.

If time permits, cross the bridge to Christianshavn, one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque neighbourhoods. Its canals, colourful houses, waterside cafés, and lively atmosphere make it a favourite among both locals and visitors.

Entrance to Tivoli Gardens

The Little Mermaid bronze statue

Make the most of your stay

Whether you’re cycling through colourful neighbourhoods, admiring world-famous landmarks, sampling Nordic cuisine, relaxing in the Botanical Garden, or simply soaking up Copenhagen’s welcoming atmosphere, Denmark’s capital offers something for every visitor.

We hope you’ll take some time to discover the city and enjoy everything Copenhagen has to offer during your stay for CIRSE 2026.