Copenhagen Architectural Photography: The Complete Guide

Copenhagen’s architectural success is no secret, and few were surprised when the Danish capital was named the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. The city displays “good urbanism” more than almost anywhere else, with a multi-dimensional focus on aesthetics, functionality, and liveability. 

If you’re into architectural photography, knowing where to start in Copenhagen will probably be your biggest challenge. Wouldn’t it be great, then, if you had someone who happens to live there and also be interested in this specific kind of photography? Perhaps that’s someone that’s identical to the person who wrote this article? 🤔

In this complete Copenhagen architectural photography guide, we’re going to discover the very best that the Danish capital has to offer. We’ll cover the charming old buildings and districts, along with some of the innovative new structures becoming part of the city’s skyline.

I’ll also provide some useful tips to help you capture the best shots possible. 

Vor Frelsers Kirke (Church of Our Saviour) 

Let’s start with what is arguably Copenhagen’s most beautiful church. Vor Frelsers Kirke is in the atmospheric Christianshavn neighborhood and was originally consecrated in 1696. The spire wasn’t added until 1752, however. 

The Church of Our Saviour is visible from much of the inner harbor in Copenhagen, and it’s also a domineering figure if you go to many of the city’s excellent observation decks. Christiansborg Palace and the Round Tower (Rundetårnet in Danish) are two examples. 

Speaking of views from above, the observation deck at Vor Frelsers Kirke is by far my favorite in Copenhagen. When you’re at the top, you’ll quickly realize how diverse the Danish capital’s architecture is. The staircase can be quite intimidating if you’re scared of heights, and it gets narrower as you edge nearer to the top. 

Some useful bits of information: 

• Take your photos closer to the bottom of the observation deck (thank you to the person who recommended this to me on a previous visit 🙂). 
• The tower is closed for January and part of February. 
• You need to book a ticket in advance (you can do that on the church’s website). Tickets cost 69 DKK for adults. You do get free entry if you’ve bought the Copenhagen Card, but you must still book a slot online. 
• Note that the tower can be closed if it’s too slippery or in the event of high winds. Rain and wind are both common in Copenhagen, so you should expect that you may have to rebook or find an alternative. 

Address: Sankt Annæ Gade 29, 1416 København K

Nearest Train/Metro Station: Christianshavn

Modern Cultural Icons

Copenhagen has several late 20th and early 21st-century buildings that have become integral parts of the city’s skyline. Many of them contribute significantly to Denmark’s cultural scene with events throughout the year, and their interiors often have several typically Danish characteristics. Soft lighting, stylish furniture, and big windows are all common features. 

Den Sorte Diamant 

Den Sorte Diamant, known as the Black Diamond in English, has been home to Denmark’s national library since 2017. However, the building itself was completed in 1999. It’s situated on the inner waterfront in Copenhagen and close to several museums, including the National Museum of Denmark. I personally have quite fond memories of one summer in 2019 when I spent two weeks in Copenhagen; at the library, I attempted to grow my first business while visiting. 

The building’s exterior features granite from Zimbabwe that was then modified in Italy. Inside, the escalators and waterfront-facing windows make for interesting photography composition opportunities. There’s also a café and bookstore, plus several spots to work from. 

Address: Søren Kierkegaards Plads 1, 1221 København K

Nearest Public Transport Stop: Det Kongelige Bibliotek (Harbour Bus) 

The Royal Danish Playhouse (Skuespilhuset)

My personal favorite modern building in Copenhagen is Skuespilhuset, also known as the Royal Danish Playhouse. It’s close to Nyhavn, and the outside area—Ofelia Plads—is often packed during the summer. 

The building opened in 2008 and was designed by Lundgaard & Tranberg. You can book tickets for numerous drama performances here, and there’s also a restaurant and bar inside. 

Address: Sankt Annæ Plads 36, 1250 København K

Nearest Public Transport Stops: Nyhavn (Waterbus), Marmorkieken (Metro)

Operahuset

Copenhagen architectural photography fans should also not miss the city’s opera house, which was officially completed in 2004. The building, which has a seating capacity of around 1,700, cost over $300 million to build and is worth every penny. It offers a great view of several landmarks in the Danish capital, such as Amalienborg Palace and towards Christianshavn. 

If you want to see inside, it’s possible to book tour tickets for 150 DKK. You can view the calendar here (in Danish). 

Address: Ekvipagemestervej 10, 1438 København K

Nearest Public Transport Stop: Operaen (Waterbus)

Cycling Infrastructure

Copenhagen’s love for cycling is impossible to ignore, and many residents get around on two wheels year-round—yes, even in the deepest depths of winter. The impeccable cycling infrastructure is one of the main reasons why many Copenhageners are happy to brave the rain, sleet, and wind on their bikes. Nowhere is this clearer than in the several bridges throughout the Danish capital that were designed for cycling. 

Cirkelbroen

If you ask me, Cirkelbroen (literally the Circle Bridge) is the coolest bridge in Copenhagen. It was completed in 2015 and is designed specifically for pedestrians and bicycles. Cirkelbroen was designed by the studio belonging to the celebrated Danish-Icelandic architect Olafur Eliasson. 

Cirkelbroen is 40 metres long and situated opposite Den Sorte Diamant. It hops across part of Christianshavns Kanal and is a great place to go for a morning walk or bike ride. I also recommend just stopping for a few seconds and admiring the view of Copenhagen’s waterfront from the bridge. 

Nearest Public Transport Stop: Christianshavn (Metro)

Cykelslangen

Another great example of the Danes’ urge to cycle as much as possible is the Cykelslangen bridge, translated in English to “the Cycling Snake”. The bridge is right next to the Fisketorvet shopping mall and recently-opened Kaktus Towers, both of which are within the Vesterbro postcode area. 

Cykelslangen opened in 2016 and offers a connection to Bryggebroen, a pedestrian and cycling bridge connecting Kalvebod Brygge with Islands Brygge. You can also bike from here to modern parts of the Sydhavn neighborhood. Keep in mind that you are not allowed to walk along the bridge; it’s only designed for bikes. 

Nearest Public Transport Stop: Dybbølsbro (S-Train)

Lille Langebro

Lille Langebro is close to Cirkelbroen and connects Christianshavn with the inner city. On one side of it is BLOX, which in and of itself is a Copenhagen architectural icon. The bridge opened in 2019 and has since become an easy way to get from one side of the inner harbor to another. 

Lille Langebro is also close to the city hall and Den Sorte Diamant. 

Nearest Public Transport Stop: Det Kongelige Bibliotek (Harbour Bus); Rådhuspladsen (Metro)

Nyhavn

I’ve included Nyhavn quite far down because you’ve probably already heard of the area, and I felt like it would be more beneficial if I showed you some of Copenhagen’s other excellent architectural examples. Nonetheless, Nyhavn is still well worth your attention—especially if one purpose of your trip is architectural photography in Copenhagen. 

Nyhavn features many of the houses that you’ve seen on various postcards and Instagram feeds. Many of the houses date back to the 17th century, and Hans Christian Andersen lived here for almost two decades in two separate houses: Nyhavn 67 and Nyhavn 18. 

For a more in-depth guide to photography in Nyhavn, you can check out this complete Nyhavn photography guide.

Nearest Public Transport Stops: Nyhavn (Waterbus), Kongens Nytorv (Metro)

If you want to kit out your smartphone with original shots from Copenhagen, why not consider getting these smartphone wallpaper packs?

Row Houses

One common feature in Copenhagen are row houses, known in Danish as “rækkehuse”. You’ll also find other forms of social housing from centuries gone by. Wandering around these areas can often feel like you’re not in the city at all, and you’ll find similar places in other Danish cities—such as Møllestien in Aarhus. 

Nyboder

Nyboder is a group of yellowish houses close to the Kastellet fortress and Østerport station. They’re probably the best example of row houses in Copenhagen, and the original use was to provide the Royal Danish Navy with a place to sleep. You may notice a similar design to the red houses within Kastellet if you decide to go for a walk around there as well. 

The Nyboder complex is currently undergoing significant renovation, which involves painting the houses in a lighter shade of yellow. However, you can still walk around large parts of it. 

Close to the yellow houses at Nyboder, you’ll find rows of houses in various other styles. So, it’s worth spending a few hours wandering around. 

Nearest Public Transport Stop: Østerport (S-Train/Metro); Marmorkirken (Metro)

Kartoffelrækkerne

The Kartoffelrækkerne houses are within touching distance of the Lakes, and you can often forget that you’re in a capital city when exploring the streets. The houses were built between 1873 and 1889, and they’re now some of the most sought-after properties in Denmark. 

Kartoffelrækkerne has a distinct community feel, and the residents are typically a friendly bunch. Some of the houses feature a brick exterior, while others have the bright colors that you’ll find on other buildings throughout Copenhagen. 

Nearest Public Transport: Østerport (S-Train/Metro)

Strandvejskvarteret

Strandvejskvarteret is one of Copenhagen’s true hidden gems (I actually only discovered it while out taking photos for this guide 😅). This district of row houses is close to Svanemøllen station in the Østerbro neighborhood, and the architecture is very similar to the better-known Kartoffelrækkerne. 

The houses at Strandvejskvarteret were built in a 10-year period between 1893 and 1903. They’re on the outer edges of Østerbro and close to Copenhagen’s well-heeled northern suburbs. 

Nearest Public Transport: Svanemøllen (S-Train) 

Brumleby

Brumleby is in leafy Østerbro, and the complex is still used as social housing today. The buildings are typically two stories and feature a bright yellow and white exterior. 

The district features plenty of outdoor communal spaces, including a playground. It’s also right next to picturesque Olufsvej, which we’ll look at later.

Nearest Public Transport: Trianglen (Metro); Vibenshus Runddel (Metro)

Humleby

Humleby is in Carlsberg Byen, which is—as you might have guessed—also home to the old Carlsberg brewery. These homes date back to the 19th century, and they’re quite far off the tourist trail. 

The homes at Humleby are near some of the many modern apartments being built within the area. Getting here is quite easy; just hop on a train to Carlsberg station. 

Nearest Public Transport: Carlsberg (S-Train)

Olufsvej

Olufsvej is a street of colorful houses right next to Brumleby and the Parken football stadium. These buildings date back to the 19th century. 

Nearest Public Transport: Trianglen (Metro); Vibenshus Runddel (Metro)

Modern Living

In addition to the older apartments and complexes that are plentiful in Copenhagen, you’ll also find several modern developments that make for solid architectural photography spots. Many of these are along the waterfront areas that used to be for industry. 

Kaktus Towers

The Kaktus Towers opened in September 2022 and are two of the most polarising buildings in Copenhagen. They were designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and are opposite the IKEA shopping center that opened almost a year later. 

You’ll see the Kaktus Towers from many parts of the Danish capital, and they’ve quickly become a familiar part of the city’s skyline. Entry is restricted to residents only, but you can still grab some photos from outside and via different vantage points in Copenhagen. 

Nearest Public Transport: Dybbølsbro (S-Train)

Sydhavn 

Sydhavn has both an older area and a set of new waterside apartments. Life feels more laid back in this part of town, and architectural photographers will want to especially look at Enghave Brygge and Sluseholmen for interesting picture opportunities. 

You’ll also find several houseboats in Sydhavn. The Metropolis building, which you’ll notice from its blue exterior and curvy outlines, is also a cool photo spot. 

Nearest Public Transport: Sydhavn (S-Train); Teglholmen (Harbour Bus) 

Nordhavn

Nordhavn is the better-known equivalent of Sydhavn, and it’s sandwiched between Østerbro and Hellerup. The district is home to the UN’s Copenhagen office, along with the German Embassy. 

You’ll find several photography spots in Nordhavn, such as the outdoor gym and playground at Konditaget Lüders—which sits atop a car park. From here, you can also get a free view over Copenhagen and across the Øresund Strait. 

If you’re feeling hungry, you’ll also find a range of restaurants and bakeries in Nordhavn. My tip? Go to Andersen & Maillard. 

Nearest Public Transport Stops: Orientkaj (Metro/Harbour Bus); Nordhavn (S-Train/Metro) 

Royalty

Copenhagen has plenty of elegant old architecture, and below are some of the best examples. 

Christiansborg Palace and Its Bridges

Christiansborg Palace is where the Danish Prime Minister carries out their daily business, and you might recognize the building if you’ve watched the popular Borgen TV series. Besides the building itself, you can also visit the stables outside—which are particularly interesting if you want to combine architectural photography with some portraits. 

At the top of Christiansborg Palace is a restaurant and observation deck. The observation deck is free, but you’ll typically have to wait in a long queue outside at peak times.

Outside Christiansborg Palace, you’ll find Marmorbroen—which leads to the building itself. You’ll also see Stormbroen, which similarly connects Slotsholmen to the rest of Copenhagen’s inner city. 

Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København

Nearest Public Transport: Gammel Strand (Metro)

Marmorkirken (Frederiks Kirke)

Marmorkirken, literally the Marble Church in English, looks a lot more Italian than Danish in its design. The building was completed in 1894 and is instantly recognizable for its bright green dome—which is the largest in Scandinavia. 

You can visit the tower on a guided tour every Saturday and Sunday at 13:00. Tickets cost 50 DKK for adults (aged 13+); children aged 0-12 go for free, and you’ll need to purchase your tickets at the church. You can find out more information here.  

Address: Frederiksgade 4, 1265 København

Nearest Public Transport: Marmorkirken (Metro)

Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is one of Copenhagen’s oldest buildings and was completed in 1634. It’s one of the best examples of Dutch Renaissance architecture in Denmark. 

The castle is situated in Kongens Have, which is a great park for lounging about on a summer’s day. If you want to look inside, you can purchase tickets online. 

Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København K

Nearest Public Transport: Nørreport (S-Train/Metro)

Arne Jacobsen’s Copenhagen 

Denmark’s design pedigree is second to none, and fewer people have made a huge impact in said space than Arne Jacobsen. In addition to the intriguing city hall in Aarhus, you’ll find a handful of Jacobsen’s designs in and around the Danish capital. 

Radisson Collection Royal Hotel

The Radisson Blu hotel next to Copenhagen Central Station was the first skyscraper in the Danish capital. You can argue that the exterior is somewhat unremarkable, but the interior is well worth checking out. 

Today, the hotel is one of Copenhagen’s high-end places to stay. While the roads outside are noisy, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the Danish capital from some of the higher floors. 

Address: Hammerichsgade 1, 1611 København K

Nearest Public Transport: Copenhagen Central Station (S-Train/Metro); Vesterport (S-Train)

Skovshoved Tankstation

Skovshoved Tankstation is situated on the coast north of Copenhagen, and it’s easy to get here by train (and, if the weather’s nice, you can also cycle). It’s still used as a petrol station today, but you’ll also find a diner inside. The structure opened in 1938. 

Address: Kystvejen 24, 2920 Charlottenlund

Nearest Public Transport: Ordrup (S-Train)

Bellevue Strand & Bellavista Apartments

If you head a bit further north of the petrol station at Skovshoved, you’ll find Bellavista Apartments. Besides being interesting to look at, they also have the added benefit of scenic settings; you’re close to both the Dyrehaven deer park and also get a fantastic view out toward the Øresund Strait. 

These apartments date back to the 1930s and can feel like they belong on a beach in Portugal instead. Close by, you’ll also find Bellevue Strand; Jacobsen designed the lifeguard watch towers and kiosks here. 

Both the beach and apartments are on Strandvejen. 

Nearest Public Transport: Klampenborg (S-Train)

Tips for Architectural Photography in Copenhagen

• Pay attention to complementing colors. One of the best ways to take interesting architectural pictures in Copenhagen is to take advantage of the various colored houses and look for what goes well together. Using autumn leaves in your shots can also work. If you need a starting point for complementing colors, you can find various online color wheels—such as this by Adobe. 
• Focus on textures. Photographing the older buildings in Copenhagen can be quite difficult, especially if you’re capturing the brick ones. In these situations, I recommend focusing on textures and using a narrower aperture (i.e. f/9-13). 

Camera Equipment

The older streets in Copenhagen are quite compact, which can make architectural photography very difficult with a telescopic lens. For that reason, I recommend getting a wide-angle or zoom lens for these kinds of shots. The 27mm XF f/2.8 worked well for me if you’re a Fujifilm user. You may also wish to get the 18-80mm; if you want to learn more about that, you can check out my 18-80 XF f/4 lens review. 

If you’re planning to photograph the Copenhagen skyline, the 18-80 (or manufacturer equivalent) will also work well for that. You can also use a 35mm or 50mm lens, or something more telescopic if you want to capture specific buildings from afar. 

Conclusion

Copenhagen is one of Europe’s best cities for architectural photography, and you can capture a broad range of styles from both times gone by and more recent eras. You’ll find these buildings used for all kinds of purposes, and it’s safe to say that some are more popular than others. 

Regardless of your preferred kind of architecture, you’ll likely come back with plenty of images to edit from your time in Copenhagen. Hopefully, this article has given you some guidance on where to begin.