Copenhagen’s Best Photo Spots: A Local’s Review

Copenhagen, that delightful capital of Denmark, appears to be a postcard come to life, right? With its rainbow-colored buildings, calm waterways, and those wonderfully charming cobblestone streets, it really does provide a feast for the eyes, specifically those of us wielding cameras. So, as someone who has called this city home for quite some time now, I figured I would share a bit about how to skip those somewhat run-of-the-mill tourist traps and head directly to spots where Copenhagen’s true charm really does sparkle. I’m talking about locations that maybe whisper stories of its past, and also show off the kind of visual that only those that live here know exist. Now, if you are just grabbing your camera, here’s a look at a few very interesting corners of Copenhagen that you might be pleased you discovered. These aren’t necessarily ranked as better than others, and you might find different value in each place depending on the weather. In my experience, rainy weather really does bring out the color of Nyhavn, too it’s almost magical.

Nyhavn: The Quintessential Copenhagen Shot

Of course, you cannot really write about the picture-perfect spots in Copenhagen without first bringing up Nyhavn. I mean, that harborfront with the bright buildings appears to be practically synonymous with the city, actually. So, what looks to be a typical view still does carry a great amount of visual appeal and offers loads of opportunities for both casual snapshots and carefully made images, and don’t even get me going about what it looks like during sunset, you know? The key, really, appears to be discovering your personal point of view. Maybe come here during sunrise to really avoid most of the crowds and bathe in the morning light, or possibly experiment with reflections in the water on a calm day. As a matter of fact, you should grab a seat at one of the local cafes, you know, order a coffee, and just simply absorb the setting prior to ever raising your camera. It will change the kinds of pictures you end up taking.

Christiania: A Different Perspective

Ready for something quite unlike anything else? Then swing by Freetown Christiania. That self-governing community really does present a distinct viewpoint on Copenhagen life, and its colorful street art, do-it-yourself architecture, and those rather creatively decorated houses definitely provide plenty of interesting subject matter. That being said, bear in mind that Christiania is that place with a somewhat unique social set of rules, alright? Now, respect their guidelines pertaining to photography, most importantly around the “Green Light District”. A good thing to photograph is the general atmosphere of the outer areas, and those details that capture the community’s unique spirit. Try, too, to chat with a few of the residents, if you get the chance. Learning just a little of their stories actually might enrich your perception and, like your eye for taking interesting photos.

Kastellet: History and Green Spaces

For something that’s maybe more on the quiet side, Kastellet is actually an old star-shaped fortress, and is a truly awesome location for capturing something unique. Its well-preserved ramparts, actually picturesque pathways, and a couple of quaint red buildings give one a striking contrast to the somewhat busy city center, right? That fortress, too, offers some beautiful views in each season, so is that just perfect for colorful autumn scenes or maybe, perhaps, snow-covered landscapes during those cold winter months. When visiting, go up to the top of the walls for really expansive views. I actually like that feeling you get there, being a bit separated from city life.

Assistens Cemetery: Serenity and Reflection

It might sound like an odd choice, yet Assistens Cemetery might be among the most genuinely serene and strikingly beautiful places in Copenhagen, that is to say for those of you who find these things beautiful. And Hans Christian Andersen is buried there. Its tranquil gardens, those somewhat old tombstones, and the lush greenery create a pretty special atmosphere for meditative photography. That place, too, actually, offers insight into the history of Copenhagen, you know? The way sunlight filters through those tree branches and the play of light and shadow across all of those old stones makes this place great for images that speak of memory, contemplation and even peace. A lot of the students who live close by visit there regularly to sit on benches and work on their studies, for example. Just make sure you’re being respectful.

The Lakes (Sortedam Lake and Peblinge Lake): Urban Oasis

The Lakes, including Sortedam Lake and Peblinge Lake, present a refreshing splash of nature in that very center of the city, so they are perfect for all sorts of photoshoots, truly. And their reflective waters mirror the buildings around the edges. That spot too it’s almost perfect for landscape shots, specifically at sunset as you see those buildings painted in hues of orange and pink. Walk around their well-kept paths, or possibly rent a boat and get a vantage point directly on that water. These lakes seem to show what Copenhagen is really all about, and also what happens when city life combines with nature.

Rosenborg Castle Gardens: Royal Grandeur

And lastly, if you’re after grandeur and all sorts of regal aesthetics, you know, it’s actually worth checking out the Rosenborg Castle Gardens. These wonderfully cared for gardens offer a blend of colorful flowerbeds, regal walkways, and that impressive Rosenborg Castle itself, so it’s perfect as something for capturing just a little history with nature’s splendor. Visit during spring for the blossom or the autumn for the colorful foliage, right? Remember, really, that those formal arrangements and the symmetry of the gardens make for interesting shots with lots of different kinds of views to play around with.