Exploring Copenhagen on your Bicycle!
Whizz along the waterways or slow down the pace on a tour of the Inner Harbour; exploring Copenhagen by bike is the best way to cover the whole city from a variety of viewpoints. Whether you want a casual ride around the old town centre or to head along to the beaches out of town, being on a bicycle means you can do it all. From the famous Circle Bridge to Superkilen Park; a bike can get you around town like a local.
Copenhagen is the world’s number one city for cycling, fact. (Sorry Amsterdam.) That means that there is a culture of biking, bike paths, bike lanes and places to park your bike. So even if you’re not an accomplished cyclist, you can take it easy and explore the city safely and at your own pace using the bike paths. Copenhagen was awarded the title of European Green Capital in 2014, leading to an increase in cycle paths and more green spaces – ideal for enjoying the environment and breathable spaces. It is also hosting the 2022 Tour de France Grand Depart, so you can follow these historic tracks too. No bike? No problem! Ask at the hostel reception for bicycle hire per day.
So, hop in the saddle and where do you want to go??
Cycling along the Waterfront
Firstly, Danes like to follow the bicycle rules, and they are accomplished cyclists, so stick to the right lane and use signals to avoid any accidents. Then, just have fun!
Built on a collection of islands, Copenhagen has a network of waterways and canals that provide great biking around the city, from the tourist highlights such as Nyhavn and Christiania to the further points like Amager Strand and the beaches outside the city. There are super-highway bridges connecting the islands so you can travel between them easily and quickly, while still taking in the sights. If you’re looking for a more subdued stroll on wheels around the old town and across towards Norrebro or Vesterbro, then take your time following the city centre routes. From here you can journey along the wide paths along Norrebro and Fredens Park, stopping at one of the many cafes or take a rest on the grass and admiring the city views – the bridges here are a favourite spot for sunset loving locals.
Harbour Circle Route
A series of bridges and pathways, the Harbour Circle is a dedicated 13km cycle route around the city harbour, which provides panoramic views and offers an alternative city tour. This is also a pedestrian route but used by thousands of bikers to get around town. Following this scenic route you can observe much of the city’s architecture, see the harboursides and canals, as well as of course plenty of boats. The Harbour Circle Route includes the famous Circle Bridge and offers a unique viewpoint of the city and its diversity.
The Inner Harbour Bridge – the Kissing Bridge
For stunning views of the colourful Nyhavn harbour, after you have walked along the shops and houses, you can bike along the Harbour Circle Route starting on the Inner Harbour Bridge. Also known as The Kissing Bridge because of it slides open rather than lifts, this bridge built in 2016 makes it easy to skip across Nyhavn canal to Christanshavn and Holmen neighbourhoods. There are platforms for you to pull over and admire the views from the bridge, especially lovely at sunset.
Another bridge taking you from the centre is Lille Langebro - the latest bridge that connects the centre of town from the City Hall Square to the neighbourhoods of Islands Brygge and Christianshavn, taking some of the bike traffic away from nearby sister bridge Langebro (used by 40,000 cyclists a day!)
For something more fast-paced then check out the elevated Bicycle Snake bridge which joins Vesterbro with Islands Brygge and affords great view across the water, mind out for the students whizzing past. It’s a unique piece of Danish architecture, along with super structures the Kissing Bridge and Circle Bridge. There are actual architectural routes you can follow, including a 22km one for the experienced riders to see the work of famous architect Bjarke Ingels.
The Circle Bridge - Cirkelbroen
This eye-catching bridge of circles, designed by award-winning Danish-Islandic designer Olafur Eliasson, provides some elliptical fun on the harbour route. The now famous design of the Circle Bridge, built in 2015, put Copenhagen on the map for innovative waterway architecture, with its five masts providing another landmark in the city. The highlight of the bridge’s design is that it creates a space to pause and admire the views.
The bridge is composed of five interlocking circular platforms with masts that create platforms where you can enjoy the views. A modern symbol of the city, this bridge links Christiansbro and Appelbys Plads.
Amager Strand Beach Park
For those who want to take a longer route and get out of town, you can take the wild and beautiful route along Amager Strand Beach Park. This pathway takes you out of town and alongside the beach following the forest and lagoon. It’s a great way to escape the busy city routes and you can take the metro back if you’re tired!
Rent your Bike at Copenhagen Downtown
We rent bikes for you to ride! If you’re staying with us then drop by reception and rent a bike, we can tell you where to go and what to see around town.
For the best international atmosphere and a genuine backpacker experience, stay with us at Copenhagen Downtown Hostel. We have a cosy retro designed hostel with great parties, events and bar. You won’t believe our happy hour prices and deals on breakfast, drinks and activities.
We are part of the Europe's Famous Hostels network of the best hostels in Europe. Famous Hostels provides the best option for Genuine Backpackers. Find out more about Famous Hostels here www.famoushostels.com Copenhagen Downtown is a proud member of Famous Hostels. Book your stay with us for a #GenuineBackpacker experience!
Images from Unsplash and Bente Jønsson from Pixabay