Copenhagen Card DISCOVER 80 attractions and public transport

Thinking about visiting Copenhagen and wondering if a city pass like the Copenhagen Card is worth it? We’ve looked into this popular option, used by many travelers, and here’s the scoop. The Copenhagen Card offers free access to over 80 attractions plus unlimited use of public transport across the entire region, making it an attractive choice for those wanting to pack in as much as possible without fussing over tickets or directions.

What really stands out about this card? First, we love how easy and flexible it is with digital access—no need for physical cards, just download the app and start exploring. Second, the variety of included attractions, from castles and museums to boat tours, means there’s genuinely something for all. That said, a small consideration is that the value depends heavily on your itinerary—if you’re only planning a quick visit and limited sightseeing, it might not pay off.

The Copenhagen Card feels best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience—especially those who plan to visit several museums, historic sites, and take advantage of the city’s excellent public transport system. If you’re a dedicated museum-goer or a family packing in multiple sights, this could be a real time and money saver.

Key Points

• Unlimited public transport across Copenhagen and surrounding areas makes getting around effortless.
• Access to 80+ attractions covers everything from castles to museums, with many free entries.
• The digital app simplifies use, with the activation timing starting from your first use.
• Kids aged 3-11 are free if you add their free card to your purchase, great for families.
• The card’s cost ($77.75 per adult) may be worthwhile if you’re planning to see several sights.
• The card is most valuable for longer stays or sightseeing-heavy itineraries.

What the Copenhagen Card Offers

The Copenhagen Card is a neat little package that combines sightseeing and transportation into one digital solution. You select a duration—anywhere from 24 hours up to 5 days—and once activated, the clock starts ticking. The app makes it easy to access your digital pass, which you’ll enter at each location or towards transport. No fuss, no waiting in line, just seamless entry and travel.

How It Works

Once you purchase the card, you’ll receive a barcode or code to input into the app. You’re then ready to go. The card is valid for the allotted hours from first use, so timing your first activity strategically can help maximize your days. It’s recommended that you don’t activate the card prematurely—wait until you’re ready to start exploring—and avoid activating it before your planned use.

Transport Benefits

Public transport is a major perk. This includes buses, trains, and metro services, which are free with the card. This means you can hop from the airport to your hotel, visit attractions all over the city without worrying about individual tickets, and even explore nearby areas like Elsinore or Roskilde easily.

Attractions Included

The list of attractions is extensive. Highlights include the famous Tivoli Gardens, the Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Museum, Christiansborg Palace, and the National Museum of Denmark. Many sites offer free entry, but note that some attractions—like Tivoli—only include the entrance, and rides or certain activities require separate payment. For example, the church towers or castle tours are generally included, but the rides in Tivoli are extra.

Exploring the Itinerary

Here’s a detailed look at some of the key stops and what they offer:

Copenhagen Zoo

A favorite among families and animal lovers, the zoo hosts over 4,000 animals in modern, well-designed enclosures. Reviewers mention that visiting the Copenhagen Zoo was a standout experience, with one noting it was their “must-see.” The zoo’s accessibility, combined with the ease of entry thanks to the card, makes it a practical stop.

Tivoli Gardens

One of Europe’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli is not just rides, but also gardens, restaurants, and evening entertainment. Entry is included, but rides are extra, so plan accordingly if you’re interested in the thrill rides. Visitors say the convenience of entering the park with the card makes it a no-brainer, especially if you want to avoid long queues.

Rosenborg Castle

Built in the 1600s, this castle houses the Danish Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia. It’s a palace filled with stunning art collections and history. Reviewers highlight it as a worthy stop, and the free entry is a bonus for history buffs.

Canal Tours

Taking a boat ride through Copenhagen’s waterways is a highlight. Stromma Canal Tours offer a different perspective of the city, passing under bridges and past iconic buildings. The reviews mention that the boat tour is a popular, relaxed way to see Copenhagen from the water.

Royal Residences

Stops like Christiansborg Palace and Amalienborg Museum let you peek into royal life. The reconstructed interiors and views from the palaces are often praised, and the free entrance with the pass really adds value.

Art & Culture Highlights

Museums such as Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, with art from Egypt to Denmark, and the National Gallery of Denmark offer rich collections. Many reviews mention how easy it was to skip lines and explore at their own pace.

Unique Experiences

The Experimentarium brings science to life with interactive exhibits, especially great for families or curious minds. The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, situated about 40 km north, is described as a must-see for modern art lovers, with striking sculpture collections and stunning views over the Sound.

Historic & Architectural Gems

Frederiksborg Castle and Roskilde Cathedral offer insight into Danish history and architecture, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors often comment on their majestic architecture and historical significance.

Special Attractions

Other notable stops include the Viking Ship Museum, Danish Architecture Center, and the Home of Carlsberg, which offers a fascinating look into Denmark’s brewing history. Some experiences, like the climb up Our Saviour’s Church tower, are highlights, but remember that climbing the tower requires an advance booking.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are fairly consistent: many find the card to be a fantastic value, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions. Comments like “It was fab used on trains, buses for free” and “It saved us money and gave us the freedom to move around Copenhagen” are common. Several travelers have extended their stay or bought additional days because the card provided such convenience.

Some reviewers, however, note that not every attraction is included—for example, Tivoli rides or certain popular sites like The Round Tower (which as of April 2024, is no longer part of the package). Also, activation can take a little effort, especially if booking online in advance, and the system isn’t perfect; one user said, “It took a very long time to figure out how to activate the card.”

Drawbacks & Things to Consider

• If your time in Copenhagen is short, and some attractions are closed or crowded (like the Church of Our Saviour with a long wait), the value diminishes.
• For those only planning a few stops, the cost might outweigh the benefits.
• The app-based system is convenient but can be frustrating if connectivity issues occur.
• Certain experiences like rides or special exhibitions still require separate tickets, which can add to the cost.

Who Should Consider the Copenhagen Card?

If you’re a sightseeing enthusiast, planning to visit several major attractions, and want the convenience of public transport included, this card is likely a smart choice. For families, the kids under 11 go free, which adds to its appeal. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration without the hassle of paying at each site.

That said, if you’re only in town for a day and want a slow, relaxed visit, it might be worth doing a quick cost comparison. The card works best if you plan to hit at least 3-4 major sites and make good use of transportation. For those who prefer more flexibility—spontaneous sightseeing or less structured itineraries—pay-as-you-go might end up being more economical.

Final Thoughts

The Copenhagen Card DISCOVER offers a practical, flexible way to explore the Danish capital without constantly fiddling with tickets and schedules. Its digital, all-in-one approach makes traveling smoother, especially for those keen on covering a lot of ground. The variety of included attractions, combined with free public transport, can lead to significant savings and a less stressful trip.

For travelers who love museums, castles, and scenic boat trips—and don’t mind planning their days a little—it’s a solid investment. The reviews highlight the value for money, especially for longer stays or those eager to see multiple sights. But remember, it’s not a magic ticket—checking your planned itinerary and attraction hours beforehand will help ensure you get your money’s worth.

In essence, this pass is best suited for explorers who want a comprehensive, worry-free experience and are ready to jump into Copenhagen’s vibrant scene. If you’re well-organized and plan to visit many of the included sites, the Copenhagen Card could become your best travel companion.

FAQ

Is the Copenhagen Card only for adults?
No, each adult can bring two children aged 3-11 for free if you add their free kids card during purchase.

How do I activate the card?
You download the Copenhagen Card app, input the code from your voucher, and activate it at your convenience. The clock starts from first use.

Does the card include rides at Tivoli Gardens?
No, the card grants entry only. Rides and attractions within Tivoli are extra and require separate tickets.

Can I use the card on public transport?
Yes, it provides free travel on buses, trains, and metro services throughout Copenhagen and the surrounding region.

What attractions are included?
Major sites like Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Museum, Christansborg Slot, Copenhagen Zoo, and more are included. Be sure to check the full list.

What are the main drawbacks?
Limited attractions like certain popular sites might be closed or crowded, and activation can sometimes be tricky. Also, if you only visit a few sights, it may not be cost-effective.

Is the card worth it for a short trip?
It depends on your plans. For just a day, unless you’re visiting several key attractions, it might be more economical to buy individual tickets or a shorter pass.

What if I encounter issues with my digital pass?
Customer reviews suggest that support is available, but some users found activation confusing. Always read the instructions carefully and contact support if needed.

The Copenhagen Card DISCOVER is a flexible, value-packed way to see Copenhagen. If you’re eager to explore extensively and make the most of the city’s sights and transit, it’s a tool worth considering.