When spring blooms in Copenhagen, all the dark winter months are immediately forgotten. With the first sight of the yellow blossoming påskeliljer (daffodils), Danes take to the great outdoors as they look forward to the fresh air, increasing daylight, and budding foliage. Read on to find out more about our top 10 spring hangouts in and around Copenhagen:
1. The Canals of Christianshavn
While tourists are often drawn to Nyhavn’s scenic canal, many Danes prefer the quieter and quainter canals of Christianshavn. Just over the Knippelsbro (bro meaning bridge) from the city center, the canals are populated with sailboats, which are complimented by the backdrop of classic Danish architecture, making it an ideal spot for having an impromptu picnic with friends.
2. Dyrehaven
Mystical nature, wild deer, and the Eremitage Castle are all waiting to be discovered at the Deer Park in Klampenborg, which is just thirty-minute S-tog ride outside of Copenhagen. This large park is situated next to the ocean and Bakken, the oldest amusement park in the world. Around 2,000 free range deer happily stroll through the extensive and gorgeous park and are surprisingly not too afraid of people.
3. Kongens Have
The central location of Kongens Have, or King’s Garden, makes it easily accessible to DIS students. It has grand green lawns and blooming gardens surrounding the picturesque Rosenborg Castle, making it a glorious place for a picnic, or to do your homework, on nice spring day.
4. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
It’s no secret that the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art has a spectacular art collection year round, with innovative exhibits taking turns each season. You can spend a day indoors and outdoors with the dynamic modern art displays, and even enjoy lunch with a view of Sweden.
5. Islands Brygge
Islands Brygge is a popular outdoor community space right beside the harbor where Copenhageners of all ages soak up the sun and canal views, take picnics, and enjoy a harbor swim.
6. Dronning Louises Bro
Dronning Louises Bro, a bridge that connects inner city Copenhagen to the hip neighborhood of Nørrebro, might be more than 100 years old, but is still the height of fashion as a hangout spot. Often with music playing in the background, Danes sit along the bridge and take in the city’s gorgeous lake surroundings.
7. Assistens Kirkegård
The residents of Nørrebro find this cemetery to be an essential green space for the community, used in the same way as a local park. Tall uniform trees line the center of the park, making it undoubtedly picturesque to glide through on a bike. On either side of the trees are burials with names of famous Danes, including Natasja Saad, Hans Christian Anderson, and Søren Kierkegaard. A blanket and a good book would make this a great lazy afternoon hang out spot.
8. Superkilen Park
Tucked into the neighborhood of Nørrebro, this playground was designed for all ages. The urban designers who created the space wanted to celebrate the local community’s diversity, and its zany aesthetics are quite engaging. It’s a great example of how design and public space can bring community together.
9. Fælledparken
Fælledparken populates much of Østerbro, and is the oldest and largest park in Copenhagen. It’s a great place to play sports, relax, do homework, or have a picnic with friends. Since it’s a popular spot for community events, you can find many outdoor activities here in the warmer months, like Copenhagen’s Football Club (FCK) Sunday matches or political discussions on May Day.
10. Your Danish Backyard
Danes that live in the suburbs of Copenhagen love to hang out in their backyards and grill while visiting with friends – a great way to create hyggelige memories.
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