Copenhagen with Kids: A Complete Family Travel Guide
- rachnamone
- Jul 15, 2019
- 6 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2025
Copenhagen with kids is one of the easiest and most enjoyable city breaks in Europe. I fell in love with Copenhagen the very first time we visited. From fantastic playgrounds and delicious hotdogs to irresistible cinnamon buns, the city feels tailor-made for families. The compact city centre is easy to explore on foot, and there are countless family-friendly attractions in and around Copenhagen that make perfect day trips—many of them covered by the Copenhagen Card. You can even hop on a short train or bus ride to Malmö, Sweden, making the experience even more exciting for kids.
We’ve visited Copenhagen three times now, and each trip has only deepened our love for this vibrant, welcoming city.
What makes Copenhagen ideal for a family trip?
As a city break, Copenhagen with kids ticks all the right boxes. The city offers a wealth of things to see and do, especially for families, and getting around is refreshingly simple. With the Copenhagen Card, public transport is seamless and stress-free, allowing families to focus on enjoying the experience rather than navigating logistics.
➡️ Get your Copenhagen Card for unlimited transport and attraction entry!
One downside of Copenhagen with kids that often stands out is the cost. From accommodation and food to transport and attractions, the city can feel expensive at first glance. However, this shouldn’t deter families from visiting Copenhagen. With a bit of advance planning, smart budgeting, and a few local tips, it’s absolutely possible to experience this beautiful city in a cost-effective and family-friendly way.
What should you consider when planning Copenhagen with kids?
When planning Copenhagen with kids, it’s important to consider transport, costs, attractions, and day trips. Copenhagen is easy to navigate, well connected to Europe and Scandinavia, and offers family-friendly infrastructure, making it an ideal city break for families.
How to Get to Copenhagen ?
Copenhagen is well connected to major European cities by air, with direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai, making it convenient for families travelling from India. Budget airlines connect Copenhagen to many European hubs, but families should always check baggage allowances carefully.
Copenhagen also has excellent train, bus, and cruise connections to neighbouring Scandinavian countries, making it a perfect starting point for longer family trips across the region.
What are the visa requirements for Indians visiting Copenhagen?
Indian passport holders travelling Copenhagen with kids need a Schengen visa. This allows travel not only in Denmark but across other Schengen countries on the same trip.
For a step-by-step guide on applying, check our post: How to Plan a Europe Trip from India – A Step-by-Step Guide, which covers documents, timelines, and tips for families.
What currency do you need when visiting Copenhagen ?
When travelling Copenhagen with kids, it’s important to know that Denmark is not part of the Eurozone. The local currency is the Danish krone (DKK).
The easiest way to get cash is to withdraw from ATMs at the airport using an international credit or debit card. Having some cash on hand is useful for taking the 5C bus from the airport to the city center, where tickets are purchased onboard. At most other places—restaurants, convenience stores, and tourist attractions—international debit and credit cards are widely accepted, so you can travel cash-light with your family.
What’s the best time to visit Copenhagen with kids?
When planning Copenhagen with kids, weather is an important factor. Denmark is known for its long, cold, and dark winters, which last for much of the year. The best time to visit is late spring or summer (May to September), when daylight hours are long and the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.
Even during these seasons, evenings can be chilly and cloudy or windy days can feel cold. Families should pack a warm jacket and a small umbrella to stay comfortable while exploring playgrounds, parks, and outdoor attractions.
What are the best foods to try in Copenhagen with kids?
When visiting Copenhagen with kids, the city offers plenty of local treats that are fun for families. A must-try Danish specialty is the hot dog, available at stalls across the city, including the airport and the Nyhavn waterfront.
For Indian families, there are plenty of Indian restaurants, though they can be expensive. Bringing some ready to eat food items can help satisfy cravings while exploring the city.
If you follow a vegetarian diet or have special dietary requirements, check out our detailed guide: How to Plan a Europe Trip from India – Step-by-Step, which covers how to enjoy delicious and healthy meals in Europe while saving money.
What are the best accommodation options in Copenhagen ?
Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses when visiting Copenhagen with kids. Hotel rooms are often pricey and may not include free breakfast or cooking facilities, which are important when travelling with children on a budget.
One money-saving option is to book an Airbnb, which can significantly reduce accommodation and food costs while giving families more comfort and flexibility. Staying in an Airbnb also offers a chance to experience local life, as Copenhagen residents are friendly, helpful, and mostly speak English, making communication easy for families.
Choose accommodations that are central, family-friendly, and convenient for transport. Popular areas include:
Indre By (City Centre) – close to attractions
Vesterbro – trendy, with playgrounds and cafes
Østerbro – quiet, near parks and the zoo
Booking early often secures better rates, especially for larger family rooms.
What activities can families enjoy in Copenhagen ?
Copenhagen offers a wide range of activities for all ages and interests. Families can explore museums, architectural landmarks, and castles, visit the Little Mermaid statue, wander through butterfly gardens, or enjoy the largest aquarium in Europe and the city zoo.
A must-visit for families is Tivoli Gardens, the iconic amusement park that delights both children and adults. Whether your kids love outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just having fun, Copenhagen has something for everyone.
➡️ Find more family travel tips on the official Copenhagen tourism site
What’s the best way to get around Copenhagen ?
Getting around Copenhagen is easy thanks to the city’s excellent public transport system.
If your visit is less than 24 hours or you’re not planning to explore museums, castles, or paid attractions, the Copenhagen City Pass is a great choice. Available for 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours, it covers all public transport—buses, trains, metro—and includes airport transfers. You can read more about 13 free things to do in Copenhagen with kids.
For longer stays of 2 days or more, especially if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions, the Copenhagen Card is the better option. It includes unlimited public transport plus one-time entry to numerous paid attractions across the city. Check out our detailed guides: Exploring Copenhagen with the Copenhagen Card – Day 1 and Day 2 for step-by-step tips.
How can families stay connected while in Copenhagen ?
Staying connected is important when travelling, whether for using Google Maps, checking public transport, or keeping loved ones updated. Most Airbnbs in Copenhagen provide free Wi-Fi, making it easy for families to stay online.
While exploring the city, you’ll find free Wi-Fi at convenience stores like 7/11, coffee shops, supermarkets, and restaurants—essentially almost everywhere. If you prefer to have mobile data on the go, Lyca Mobile is a reliable option for tourists.
Is Copenhagen safe for families with kids?
Copenhagen with kids is considered a very safe city for families. Standard precautions, such as staying alert in crowded areas and keeping an eye on your belongings, are usually sufficient. With basic awareness, families can confidently enjoy all the attractions and experiences the city has to offer.
As a final verdict, Copenhagen offers everything you could want from a city—and more! From family-friendly attractions and playgrounds to delicious local food and safe streets, it’s an ideal destination for families travelling with children. Chances are, your little ones will fall in love with the city and keep asking to return—just like mine do every other day!
FAQ – Copenhagen with Kids
1. Is Copenhagen safe for families?
Yes! It’s very safe. Just stay alert in crowded areas.
2. When is the best time to visit?
Late spring to summer (May–September) for mild weather and long daylight.
3. How to get around?
Use the Copenhagen Card for unlimited public transport and attraction entry.
4. What are the must-visit attractions?
Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Zoo, Experimentarium, Nyhavn, Little Mermaid, plus day trips to nearby Malmö.
5. Do Indians need a visa?
Yes. A Schengen visa is required to visit Copenhagen and other Schengen countries.
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