In November, Copenhagen days are short and the temperature is low, but it’s still a great time to visit the Danish capital. The city offers plenty of exciting things to see and do, and in this guide, we highlight both indoor and outdoor activities to inspire your November adventure.
Beneath the majestic Christiansborg Palace, you can explore ruins that take you back 800 years. The largest is part of a curtain wall from Bishop Absalon’s castle, believed to have been built around 1167. At that time, this area of Copenhagen was considered an island outside the main city. The bishop built the wall to defend against the Wendish pirates, who were active along the southern coast of the Baltic Sea.
Another highlight is the remains of the notorious Blåtårn (the Blue Tower), once part of the former Copenhagen Castle and used as a prison. It held high-profile prisoners, including political captives. Leonora Christine, daughter of King Christian IV, is probably its most famous inmate. The king’s favorite daughter was held captive for nearly 22 years. How did she end up a prisoner? Her husband, Corfitz Ulfeldt, was accused of treason and conspiring with Sweden. Ulfeldt fled the country, and his wife was imprisoned in his place.
Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1
Getting there: Take Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 1
Photo by Christiansborg Palace
After exploring the city beneath the surface, why not discover it from high above the chimney tops?
Rundetaarn (the Round Tower), built by King Christian IV between 1637 and 1641, remains one of Denmark’s most iconic landmarks. Standing at an impressive 34.8 meters it offers the perfect 360-degree view of Copenhagen.
Aside from the stunning views, you can also visit Europe’s oldest functioning observatory. It was the center of Danish astronomy for centuries, and while it has undergone several changes over the years, the current version dates back to 1929.
To reach the top, you’ll walk a steep spiral ramp that winds around the tower’s hollow core 7½ times. Just before the top, there’s a short stairway, leading to your reward: the panoramic view! Visiting in November means fewer people, so you can enjoy the views in peace and take your time.
Address: Købmagergade 52A
Denmark and beer go hand in hand, with a long tradition of both drinking and brewing. In the early days, Copenhagen’s water was contaminated, so families were given a daily ration of beer, meaning that everyone (including children) drank it regularly!
To learn more about Danish beer and brewing history, we recommend a visit to Home of Carlsberg. Carlsberg Beer was founded in 1847 by J.C. Jacobsen, later joined by his son Carl, and here you can explore the rich history and heritage of their brewing legacy. Today Carlsberg is the third-largest brewery in the world, so be sure to taste some beer before you leave.
Don’t miss the chance to see the iconic draught horses in the stables or the vintage cars once used to deliver beer around Copenhagen.
Address: Gamle Carlsberg Vej 11
Getting there: Join Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 24
Top tip: Buy your entry ticket with Stromma
At Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, housed in one of the most beautiful buildings in Copenhagen, you’ll find an extraordinary collection of art, archaeological objects, and sculptures telling the story of life, culture, and civilization spanning 6,000 years.
The museum might be home to ancient artifacts, but it adds a modern twist to its exhibitions by letting you hear the art as well as see it. Statues and paintings reveal secrets that can not only be seen but also heard, so dive into their specially designed audio stories for a completely unique museum experience.
Top tip: The museum is closed on Mondays, so be sure to check their website for opening hours before your visit.
Address: Dantes Plads 7
Getting there: Take Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 12
Photo by Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
One of the most popular activities among Copenhageners in November is a visit to the city’s seasonal ice-skating rinks.
Broens Ice Rink, close to Nyhavn, is a popular spot! Here, you can enjoy fun on the ice while also taking in a perfect view of the water. As darkness falls, twinkling lights make it feel especially magical.
You can rent skates and helmets on-site, and if you’re a bit like Bambi, it’s also possible to rent a skate-buddy (a skating aid) to help you maintain your balance. If you run out of energy, refuel with delicious food from one of the street food stalls or a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
Address: Strandgade 95
Getting there: Join Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 2 and cross the Inner Harbor Bridge to reach the ice rink
Photo by Rolands Varsbergs & Danny Samarov
Many of the iconic sights and attractions are located close to the canals and inner harbor, making a canal tour a great sightseeing choice! Not only is a boat tour a cozy activity, but it also gives you a view of popular landmarks such as the Little Mermaid, the Opera House, and the historic frigate Peder Skram.
Stromma’s Classic Canal Tour takes one hour, and you can choose between live-guided and audio-guided tours with several daily departures. All boats are covered and heated, so you’ll stay nice and warm during your boat tour. You’re more than welcome to bring a drink and a snack for the ride.
Address: Nyhavn 3 or Ved Stranden 26
As November’s chill sets in, treat yourself to some much-needed warmth and relaxation at one of Copenhagen’s luxurious spas. Recharge in serene surroundings and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
Step into Amazing Space at the legendary Hotel d’Angleterre and pamper yourself with one of their many treatments. They offer a wide variety, from facials to full-body care. You can also relax in the sauna and steam room or take a swim in the pool. The calming surroundings make it easy to leave stress at the door, and you’ll quickly feel energized and ready for more exploration of the Danish capital.
Address: Hovedvagtsgade 3
Getting there: Hop off Stromma’s sightseeing buses at stop 2
Det Lille Apotek is the oldest restaurant in Copenhagen, established in 1720, where you can taste traditional Danish food in historic surroundings.
The low ceilings, paintings, and oil lamps set the mood for a cozy evening, and with dishes made from old, original recipes, you’re in for a treat! Classics include smørrebrød, roast duck with browned potatoes, and their famous Apothecary stew.
Det Lille Apotek has been very popular since it first opened. Writer Hans Christian Andersen even had lunch and a schnapps there every single day while writing his famous fairy tale The Ugly Duckling.
Address: Store Kannikestræde 15
Get into the holiday spirit at Copenhagen’s Christmas markets. You’ll find handmade Christmas ornaments, beautifully decorated trees, and the smell of mulled wine and æbleskiver. There are cozy huts, twinkling lights, and a lively atmosphere. If you have kids, you can even bring them to meet Santa.
You’ll find markets at Højbro Plads, Nytorv, and Gammeltorv. They are free to visit and open at the beginning of November.
From November 14, 2025, Tivoli Gardens transforms into a magical winter wonderland and you’ll find one of the world’s best Christmas markets (at least according to CNN). Pick up a new ornament to bring home, buy a woolly sweater, or find cute Christmas presents or stocking stuffers for your loved ones.
Skip the entrance line at Tivoli by buying your entry ticket with Stromma.
Address: Vesterbrogade 3
Getting there: Take Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 12
Photo by Tivoli Gardens
With winter just around the corner and temperatures ranging between 5°C to 8°C (41°F to 46°F) Copenhagen is quite chilly, so packing warm clothes is essential. The best approach is to dress in layers, so you can add or remove clothing and stay comfortable throughout the day. Good shoes and a rain jacket should also be on your packing list.
Find all the activities and places of interest mentioned in this guide on the map below, and let your Copenhagen adventure begin.
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