A Local’s Guide to Visiting Copenhagen in the Summer

Summer is one of the most popular times to visit Copenhagen, and while it’s not my favorite season, I can understand why. The long daylight hours allow for endless fun activities outdoors, and the city has a great way of making you feel like you’re on a three-month holiday. 

While the city is covered in gray clouds for most of the year, those largely dissipate for a short period. People have awoken from their winter hibernation, too; bars and restaurants are similarly accommodating, with plenty of outdoor seating areas. 

It helps to be prepared before visiting Copenhagen in the summer. This time of year has unique pros and cons, as well as numerous events and other things to know about. Based on my experiences living here for more than four years and visiting in the summer before doing so, I’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to prepare you for your trip. 

When Is Summer in Copenhagen?

Summer in Copenhagen lasts from June to September. The last week of May normally begins to feel like summer, and that feeling continues through most of September. 

If you’re visiting either side of the above timeframe, you’ll want to check out my guides to visiting Copenhagen in springtime or autumn instead. 

This season is at its peak in June and the first part of August. While the weather is still “summer” toward the end of August, many attractions start to close, and the crowds start thinning again. 

How’s the Weather in Copenhagen During the Summer?

Summer in Copenhagen is relatively comfortable, with daytime temperatures between 17ºC and 25ºC (62.6 to 77ºF). Meanwhile, nighttime temperatures are typically from 10ºC to 15ºC (50 to 59ºF). 

While we sometimes experience hotter temperatures, they are quite rare. I remember one day in 2021 when it was 32ºC (89.6ºF), which felt disgusting because of the humidity. At most, it will probably be around 27-29ºC (80.6 to 84.2ºF). 

For the most part, it’s quite sunny in Copenhagen during the summer. To be honest, I often forget that it’s windy and rainy for most of the year during these months. 

There have, however, been summers that simply haven’t arrived since I moved to Copenhagen. 2023 was one such example; it rained for more days than I remember it not doing so. 

Copenhagen Summer Daylight Hours

On the longest day of the year, the sun rises in Copenhagen at 04:25 and sets at 21:57. Because we’re quite far north, it doesn’t get fully dark for much of the summer. 

Below are some of the other summer sunset times in Copenhagen:

Date	Sunrise	Sunset
June 1	04:33	21:42
June 21	04:25	21:57
July 15	04:46	21:43
July 31	05:13	21:17
August 15	05:42	20:44
August 31	06:13	20:05
September 15	06:41	19:26

(Source: timeanddate)

Reasons to Visit Copenhagen in the Summer

Copenhagen is great year-round, but visiting in the summer presents unique opportunities to enjoy this city. Below are some of my top reasons for visiting Copenhagen during the summer. 

1. Long Daylight Hours 

Though not as bright as the other Nordic capitals, Copenhagen still gets over 17 hours of daylight in June. I spend more time outside each day because I can simply do more; for example, I love going for evening walks with my camera. 

Because you’ve got lots of daylight hours, you won’t feel rushed when exploring the Danish capital. You can also visit the main attractions, such as the Round Tower, at times when the crowds are thinner. 

Many places are also open later in the summer, giving you the chance to explore Copenhagen at a more leisurely pace. 

2. A Joyful Atmosphere

One reason I travel more outside of the summer is because the atmosphere in Copenhagen is even nicer than usual between June and August. It feels like everyone is outdoors, and there’s a noticeable difference in many people’s moods. 

Summer in Copenhagen is the perfect time to truly enjoy the city’s public spaces. You’ll see very clearly why the sense of community is so strong here and why it’s such a great place to live. 

You can always take part in this atmosphere when you’re here, too. For example, you can always go to the grocery store to get some beers and sit on Dronning Louises Bro at sunset. This is one of the best things to do in particular if you’re visiting Copenhagen on a budget. 

3. Plenty of Outdoor Activities 

Summer is the perfect time to do outdoor activities in Copenhagen, whether that’s playing Kongespil in a local park, going for a bike ride, or renting a bike. The city is active throughout the year, but this is even more true during the summer. 

You’ll also find numerous events that bring people together at this time, such as Sankt Hans Aften in June. As cozy as Copenhagen’s building interiors are, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible during these months. 

4. Cooler Temperatures Than Elsewhere in Europe

As much as I enjoy traveling around Europe, I often prefer visiting other countries outside of the summer. The crowds are one reason, but I also don’t like how hot it gets. For example, the last time I visited Italy in July, it was almost 40ºC (104ºF). I vowed never to make that mistake again. 

If you’re looking to escape hotter temperatures elsewhere, Copenhagen is the perfect place for a “coolcation”. First of all, the city itself is just very cool. But temperature-wise, you also shouldn’t feel too uncomfortable. 

One thing worth noting, though, is that many Danish buildings aren’t air-conditioned. They also get quite warm inside during the summer, so you should keep this in mind. 

5. All Tourist Attractions Are Open

I’ve said numerous times that the best time to visit Copenhagen is whenever you can. However, it helps if all the main attractions are open—and that’s exactly the case in the summer.  

Tivoli, for example, is open all summer. Since it’s closed at different times throughout the rest of the year, this is the best time to visit if you want to be sure that you can go. Besides buying individual tickets, you can get entrance to Tivoli as part of the Copenhagen Card (note that this only covers the entrance. For ride tickets, go here instead).

Many attractions also have extended opening hours. For example, the Round Tower is open daily from 10:00 to 20:00 during the summer and from 10:00 to 18:00 the rest of the year (except Tuesdays and Thursdays, when it’s open until 21:00). 

6. Lots of Events 

Summer in Copenhagen is prime time for fun events. Numerous concerts take place at this time of the year in Tivoli, Christiania, and other parts of the city.

Just outside of Copenhagen, meanwhile, is Roskilde Festival—which is the biggest in the Nordic region. 

While midsummer isn’t as big of a deal in Denmark as it is in Finland and Sweden, Sankt Hans Aften in June is also worth attending. 

The Disadvantages of Visiting Copenhagen in the Summer

Having read up to this point, you’d be forgiven for thinking that summer in Copenhagen is (literally) all sunshine and rainbows. But like any time of the year, it’s not perfect. Below are some of the drawbacks to consider before booking your trip. 

1. Many Locals Are Out of Town in July

This caught me off guard during my first full year in Copenhagen, but many Danes are out of town for most of July. 

The city is very quiet throughout the month, but it does mean that some businesses and restaurants close for July. So, it’s worth checking to ensure that each place you want to eat at is open. 

This probably won’t affect you if you’re visiting somewhere more popular, but it is something to consider if you plan to visit some more local establishments. 

2. It’s the Peak Tourist Season

While many Copenhageners leave the city in July, this month—along with June and August—is busy as far as tourists are concerned. I try to avoid the popular tourist spots during the day as it sometimes gets overwhelming (at least for me). 

If you want sunny weather but to avoid the main tourist season, consider visiting in early to mid-September instead. 

3. Accommodation Is More Expensive

Because it’s the peak tourist season, accommodation in Copenhagen is often more expensive during the summer. It also fills up quickly; booking in advance is a very good idea. 

You can save money on hotels by staying outside the city center and using the (clean and very efficient) Metro system. Otherwise, renting a bike and cycling into town is another option. 

Stuff to Do in Copenhagen During the Summer

Copenhagen is full of fun during the summer, and I’ve listed some of my recommendations for this time of year in the subsections below. Once you’ve read this guide, you can get further tips for things to do in Copenhagen in my super-comprehensive article with 35+ suggestions; it’s free to read, with no download required.

1. Visit Tivoli 

Popular with locals and tourists alike, Tivoli is one of my all-time Copenhagen favorites. This large amusement park is a joy to walk around, with plenty of cafés and restaurants. It’s also one of the best photography spots in the Danish capital. 

The amusement park is magical whenever you visit, but I particularly recommend doing so in the evening. You can buy tickets for the park itself and one that grants access to the rides; I recommend buying these in advance. It’s also included in the Copenhagen Card.

Keep in mind that Tivoli will be busy during the summer since the kids will also be out of school in Denmark. Nonetheless, it’s still worth experiencing. 

2. Enjoy Copenhagen’s Waterfronts

Copenhagen’s canals and harbors are full of life in the summer. I love spending time at Islands Brygge; here, you can enjoy a truly local vibe. Nordhavn is also nice, though significantly more crowded. 

The classic spots are also great for chilling out and some street photography in the summer. Nyhavn, for example, is very magical on a late summer evening. I also really enjoyed spending time in Sydhavn when I lived there; it’s much less crowded than Nordhavn but still scenic nonetheless. 

Other places to enjoy summer in Copenhagen by the water include:

• The outdoor seating at the Black Diamond’s café 
• The Lakes 
• Amager Strandpark 

3. Go for a Swim in Copenhagen 

One of the things I really like about living in Copenhagen is how clean the water is. As in, it’s so clean that we can swim in it. I’m still working on that year-round habit, but it’s nice to go for a dip in the summer. 

The Danish capital has numerous designated swimming areas. These include: 

• Islands Brygge
• Nordhavn
• Kalvebod Brygge
• Near the Fisketorvet shopping mall 

I also like to visit the beaches just north of Copenhagen. These get very busy, but going in the water here on a summer’s day is very pleasant. 

The temperature is still cold during the summer, but it’s quite refreshing on a warm day. Most of the bathing areas in Copenhagen are free, but changing facilities might be members-only. You need to stick to the designated bathing areas; you can find them here (in Danish). 

4. Rent a Boat and Explore the City 

I’ll stand by my opinion that Copenhagen is best explored from the water. While you can join a boat tour, I also recommend renting your own boat and exploring the city at your own pace. 

You can rent boats at Islands Brygge via GoBoat. You don’t need a license to drive it, and you can choose whether you want to rent for 1-3 hours. In that time, you’re free to go wherever you want in the city. 

The boats are relatively small and go at quite a slow pace, so they’re quite beginner-friendly. You can book your boat rental in advance. 

5. Take a Day Trip From Copenhagen 

If you’re only visiting Copenhagen for 3 days, I recommend spending as much time as possible in the city. But if you have 4 days or longer, summer is the perfect time to take a day trip. 

Dragør is a great day trip from Copenhagen, especially if it’s sunny and you rent some bikes. Helsingør is also a beautiful town, and it’s just 50 minutes away. You can also visit Møns Klint, which is around 2 hours from the Danish capital. 

If you want an international adventure, Malmö is particularly pleasant in the summer. You can read this itinerary that combines Copenhagen and Malmö on the same weekend if you wish to visit both; Lund is another great Swedish city within easy reach from Copenhagen. 

I’ve also compiled all my favorite day trips from Copenhagen in a separate guide if you want to explore them in more detail.

6. Have a Picnic in One of Copenhagen’s Many Parks

Copenhagen has several parks that are great for spending the summer in. Kongens Have, where you’ll find Rosenborg Castle, is—in my opinion—the best place to have a picnic. You’ll find plenty of locals playing games and chatting when visiting here. 

Fælledparken is bigger than Kongens Have and perfect for a lowkey afternoon. Frederiksberg Have and Sydhavnstippen also deserve a mention; the latter is very far off the beaten path (and you can also spot sheep here). 

Superkilen in Nørrebro is a nice place to spend a sunny day, too. 

Where to Enjoy Food and Drink Outdoors in the Summer

Many restaurants and bars have outdoor seating areas in Copenhagen during the summer, but there are some places that I recommend above all others. I’ve outlined these below. 

1. Reffen

Reffen is the place to be in Copenhagen during the summer. This large area on Refshaleøen is home to street food stands with cuisines from around the world. You’ll also find a Mikkeller bar here and a large skateboarding park. 

Seating fills up quickly, but you can always take your food with you if needed. Besides being a great place to eat, you can also go sunbathing and swimming here. 

Cycling is the easiest way to get to Reffen. Otherwise, you can take the 2A bus. 

Address: Refshalevej 167, 1432 København K

2. Warpigs

Warpigs has a large outdoor seating area. I suggest sitting here if you visit during the summer as it can get quite warm inside. 

At Warpigs, you can try numerous Mikkeller beers from an ever-changing menu. I recommend the brisket, but pulled pork is another option. The mac ‘n’ cheese side dish isn’t something that you should miss out on, either. 

Though busy, the queue here moves quite quickly. 

Address: Flæsketorvet 25-37, 1711 København V

3. Broens Street Food

Broens Street Food is between Nyhavn and Christianshavn, and it’s a great place to visit during the summer. Though not as big as Reffen, the atmosphere is pleasant. You’ll find various stands for food and some drinks, and there’s a decent amount of seating as well. 

The street food market opens in mid-March and is then open throughout the summer. You can see all the food stands here; I personally recommend Gasoline Grill and the poké bowls from Hooked.  

Address: Strandgade 95, 1401 København K

4. Hansens Gamle Familiehave

If you want to sample traditional Danish food, Hansens Gamle Familiehave in Frederiksberg is my top recommendation. This place’s peak season is during the summer, and the kitchen is open until 21:30 daily. You can stick around until midnight, though, if you also want some drinks. The venue also has live music. 

When I came here in 2021, I got a standard fried pork and potatoes. It was “all you can eat”, but the portion sizes were so big that I only had one plate. The menu changes depending on the season, so you’ll always have something good. 

You can book a table on the website. 

Address: Pile Allé 10, 12, 2000 Frederiksberg

5. Fermentoren

Fermentoren is a bar close to the Meatpacking District and has a decent-sized outdoor seating area. You’ll find numerous craft beers on tap, and as a bonus, this place is dog-friendly. 

Fermentoren is open until 2 am on Friday and Saturday, 1 am on Thursday, and midnight for the rest of the week. It’s close to Copenhagen Central Station and Dybbølsbro, making it easy to reach from the city center. 

Address: Halmtorvet 29C, 1700 København V

How to Avoid the Crowds in Copenhagen During the Summer

While the city center can get quite busy during the warmer months, it’s actually quite easy to avoid the crowds. Below, I’ll share some of my tried-and-tested tips for doing so. 

1. Visit the Touristy Spots Early in the Morning

Most of the touristy places get busy from 10 am onwards; to really have them to yourself, I recommend visiting before 8 am. You’ll see a few people walking their dogs or cycling to work, but it’ll be nowhere near as busy as during the day. 

If you visit earlier in the day, the lighting is often better anyway. So, if you’re interested in getting those memorable vacation photos, this is the perfect time to visit. As a bonus, it’s very rewarding to watch the city wake up. 

For places that aren’t open before then, try to visit as close to opening time as possible. 

2. Explore Copenhagen’s Other Neighborhoods

As I mentioned earlier, it’s only the city center that truly feels crowded during the summer (at least in my opinion). Nørrebro, Vesterbro, and the city’s other districts are full of people, but there’s still room to breathe. I used to enjoy coming back home to relative peace when I lived in Sydhavn and then getting my stimulation from the city center. 

Each neighborhood in Copenhagen has its own unique charm. While Nørrebro and Vesterbro are more edgy, Østerbro and Frederiksberg are more polished. Spend some time in each of them to really dig into the psyche of what makes Copenhagen so great. 

3. Visit Copenhagen During the Roskilde Festival

Roskilde is the most popular music festival in Denmark, attracting over 200,000 people each year. It takes place at the end of June/beginning of July, and during this week, Copenhagen feels very empty. 

If you want to visit during the summer but without lots of crowds, consider visiting the city during this period. It’s worth booking your flights in advance, though, as many people coming to Copenhagen at this time will be going to Roskilde Festival. 

Copenhagen Events in the Summer

1. Sankt Hans Aften

Sankt Hans Aften is one of Denmark’s oldest traditions, and it’s celebrated annually on June 23rd. Several bonfires are lit throughout Copenhagen, attracting large crowds, songs, and a festive atmosphere.  

I went to Sankt Hans Aften in Frederiksberg Have in 2022 and really enjoyed it. I also went to Nyhavn in the summer of 2025, and it was really enjoyable. Regardless of where you go, it’s a great tradition to take part in. You’ll experience Denmark’s famed “hygge” in all of its glory, and watching those summer sunsets is magical. 

Some Sankt Hans Aften bonfires will be earlier in the evening, so be sure to check beforehand.

2. Roskilde Festival

If you’re a big music fan, you might want to coincide your Copenhagen trip with Roskilde Festival. You will need to book your tickets in advance (like, as soon as they come out in February), as this event is very popular. 

Several famous artists have performed here, such as Snoop Dogg, Björk, and Rihanna. While popular with young people, families also attend this event. You can camp at Roskilde Festival, but it’s not a necessity. 

You can find ticket information, lineup details, and more on the official website. 

3. Copenhagen Pride

Copenhagen Pride is the largest free pride event in Scandinavia. The schedule is released on the website around May, and the main week is normally in mid-August. 

In 2025, it will take place on 16th August. To join the parade, you can just show up. Besides the main Pride week in August, several events take place for Pride month in June. 

4. Stella Polaris

Stella Polaris is a free event with live music in Frederiksberg Have. I went here with my friend in 2024, and it was a nice opportunity to catch up, have a picnic, and enjoy a chilled atmosphere. 

Food and drink are available at the event, but you can also bring these with you. The park is large enough that you should have no issues finding free space. 

5. O Days

O Days is a day festival taking place at Refshaleøen. Several global artists bring their talent to Copenhagen; in 2025, the event will take place from July 31st through August 2nd. 

The event was created by ÅBEN, a craft beer brewery founded in 2017. Unsurprisingly, this festival is also a great place to enjoy drinks. 

What to Wear in Copenhagen During the Summer

Standard summer attire, like t-shirts, shorts, and a dress, should be fine for your trip to Copenhagen. However, I recommend bringing a rain jacket with you; most rain showers in the summer are heavy. This one from RAINS is a personal favorite. 

I also recommend bringing a sweater for the evening. It often feels quite chilly, and you should definitely have one with you if you plan to spend a lot of time outside. 

Sunscreen is also a necessity because the sun is really strong at this time of the year. Bringing this from your home country is a good idea if you have checked-in baggage, but if not, you’ll find some in most big grocery stores or any Matas shop. 

As for footwear, sneakers are a good idea if you’re going to cycle a lot. A good pair of Birkenstock sandals are also popular in Copenhagen around this time of year; you can buy them for men and women before you visit.

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