Beyond the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn's colorful harbor, and Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen hides countless lesser-known treasures that most tourists never discover. As local guides who've explored every corner of our beautiful capital, we're excited to share our favorite hidden gems that will give you a deeper, more authentic experience of Copenhagen. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore beyond the famous attractions, these local secrets will help you see the city through Danish eyes.

1. Assistens Kirkegård: A Cemetery Unlike Any Other

While visiting a cemetery might not be on your typical sightseeing list, Assistens Kirkegård in the Nørrebro district is more than a burial ground—it's a peaceful park where locals sunbathe, picnic, and relax. Famous Danes including philosopher Søren Kierkegaard and fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen are buried here, but the cemetery's lush greenery and winding paths make it feel like a secret garden in the middle of the city.

Local tip: Visit in spring when the cemetery explodes with blooming flowers, or in autumn when the golden leaves create a magical atmosphere.

2. Refshaleøen: From Industrial Wasteland to Cultural Hotspot

Once a shipyard, this industrial island has transformed into Copenhagen's newest creative district. The gritty, post-industrial landscape now houses food markets, art installations, urban gardens, and some of the city's best restaurants. Don't miss La Banchina, a tiny sauna and café where brave locals swim year-round, or Reffen, an open-air street food market made from shipping containers.

Local tip: Rent a bike and take the scenic route along the harbor to reach Refshaleøen—the journey offers spectacular views of Copenhagen's waterfront.

3. Bibliotekshaven: The Hidden Royal Library Garden

Tucked away behind the Royal Library, this enchanting garden remains unknown even to many Copenhagen residents. Enter through an unassuming gate and discover a serene courtyard with manicured lawns, a central fountain, and classical statues. It's the perfect spot to escape the city bustle and enjoy a quiet moment with a book.

Local tip: The garden is rarely crowded, even in peak tourist season, making it an ideal place to recharge between visiting nearby attractions like Christiansborg Palace.

4. Superkilen: The Most Diverse Park in Denmark

This extraordinary urban space in Nørrebro celebrates diversity with objects and installations from over 60 countries. The park is divided into three color-coded zones: the Red Square for recreation, the Black Market for gathering, and the Green Park for sports and picnics. Look for Thai boxing rings, Moroccan fountains, and swings from Iraq—each element represents the homeland of a local resident.

Local tip: Visit on weekends when local families gather, creating a vibrant atmosphere that truly represents Copenhagen's multicultural identity.

5. Sankt Hans Torv: Experience Local Café Culture

This charming square in the heart of Nørrebro is where locals come to see and be seen. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating, it's the perfect place to experience Copenhagen's renowned café culture. The square's centerpiece is a quirky granite sculpture that doubles as a fountain in summer.

Local tip: Try Café Europa or Kaffeplantagen for excellent coffee, and don't rush—Danes take their coffee breaks seriously, often lingering for hours.

6. Copenhagen Food Markets Beyond Torvehallerne

While Torvehallerne is beautiful, it's firmly on the tourist trail. For a more local experience, visit Broens Gadekøkken (Bridge Street Kitchen) near the harbor, WestMarket in Vesterbro, or Boltens Food Court near Kongens Nytorv. These markets offer everything from traditional Danish smørrebrød to international street food at prices more affordable than Torvehallerne.

Local tip: Visit during weekday lunchtimes to see Copenhagen locals on their lunch breaks and avoid weekend crowds.

7. The Lakes After Dark: Copenhagen's Evening Promenade

The three rectangular lakes dividing central Copenhagen from Nørrebro and Østerbro are popular during the day, but they take on a magical quality at sunset. Join locals for an evening stroll as the city lights reflect on the water and resident swans and ducks paddle nearby. The atmosphere is particularly magical in summer when Copenhageners gather to enjoy the long Nordic evenings.

Local tip: Start at Queen Louise's Bridge, a popular hangout spot, and walk the full circuit around the lakes (about 6km) for different city views.

8. Cisternerne: The Underground Art Experience

Beneath Frederiksberg Gardens lies a subterranean art space inside a former water reservoir. The damp, echoing chambers create an otherworldly atmosphere for contemporary art installations that change annually. The combination of dripping water, darkness, and art makes for an unforgettable sensory experience unlike any conventional gallery.

Local tip: Bring a light jacket even in summer—the temperature remains cool year-round in this underground space.

9. Værnedamsvej: Copenhagen's Most Charming Street

This narrow street straddling the border between Frederiksberg and Vesterbro has a distinctly Parisian feel with specialized food shops, boutiques, and cafés. Locals call it "Little Paris" for its intimate atmosphere and excellent food offerings. Don't miss Granola café for breakfast, Falernum for wine, or the cheese shop Helge's for picnic supplies.

Local tip: The street is at its best on Saturday mornings when residents shop for weekend provisions at the various specialty food stores.

10. Islands Brygge Harbor Bath: Urban Swimming Like a Local

While tourists flock to the Little Mermaid, locals head to the harbor baths in summer. Copenhagen's clean harbor waters make urban swimming possible, and Islands Brygge is the most popular spot. With five pools, diving towers, and grassy areas for sunbathing, it's where Copenhageners cool off when temperatures rise. The atmosphere is festive, with music, picnics, and the occasional impromptu party.

Local tip: For a less crowded experience, try the harbor baths at Sluseholmen or Fisketorvet, which attract fewer tourists but are equally clean and well-designed.

Experience the Real Copenhagen with DisvoDisvi

At DisvoDisvi, we specialize in showing visitors the Copenhagen that locals love. Our Hidden Copenhagen: Off the Beaten Path excursion visits many of these lesser-known spots with expert guides who share stories and context you won't find in guidebooks.

Whether you're interested in history, food, architecture, or simply experiencing everyday Danish life, we can customize an experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions and helps you discover your own favorite hidden gems in wonderful Copenhagen.