City Hall and Square Copenhagen
Copenhagen's bustling City Hall Square, a grand public space featuring impressive architecture, a famous clock, and the start of a major shopping stre...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light for photos
City Hall and Square Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Copenhagen's bustling City Hall Square, a grand public space featuring impressive architecture, a famous clock, and the start of a major shopping street.
"A fabulous square with plenty of sights to see, historic buildings, walks in nearby streets, shopping and cafes and restaurants."
🎯 New Year's Eve Caution
The square becomes a 'war zone' with fireworks. Consider watching from safer, more spacious areas like the lakes .
🐉 Discover the Dragons
Look for the dragons near the fountain; they were once part of a larger centerpiece and are a unique historical detail .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Copenhagen City Hall
Rådhuspladsen
An architectural masterpiece showcasing Danish craftsmanship, with stunning interiors and a notable world clock.

Jens Olsen's World Clock
Copenhagen City Hall
A complex astronomical clock, a true technical wonder, depicting celestial movements and time across the globe.
Dragon Fountain
City Hall Square
Originally the centerpiece of a fountain, these mythical dragons add a touch of fantasy to the bustling square.

The Start of Strøget
City Hall Square
The square marks the beginning of Strøget, one of Europe's longest pedestrian shopping streets, perfect for a stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating City Hall Square
Best Time for Photos & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 New Year's Eve Caution
The square becomes a 'war zone' with fireworks. Consider watching from safer, more spacious areas like the lakes.
🐉 Discover the Dragons
Look for the dragons near the fountain; they were once part of a larger centerpiece and are a unique historical detail.
🚶♀️ Strøget Shopping Start
City Hall Square is the gateway to Strøget, Copenhagen's famous pedestrian shopping street.
🕰️ Admire World Clock
Don't miss Jens Olsen's World Clock inside City Hall, a marvel of intricate engineering.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 New Year's Eve Caution
The square becomes a 'war zone' with fireworks. Consider watching from safer, more spacious areas like the lakes.
🐉 Discover the Dragons
Look for the dragons near the fountain; they were once part of a larger centerpiece and are a unique historical detail.
🚶♀️ Strøget Shopping Start
City Hall Square is the gateway to Strøget, Copenhagen's famous pedestrian shopping street.
🕰️ Admire World Clock
Don't miss Jens Olsen's World Clock inside City Hall, a marvel of intricate engineering.
🏛️ City Hall Interior
The City Hall itself is a masterpiece; inquire about tours to see its custom-made, craft-filled interiors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
City Hall Square is a vibrant and central hub in Copenhagen, praised for its impressive City Hall, lively atmosphere, and convenient location as a starting point for shopping and exploring. Visitors appreciate its architectural beauty and the surrounding amenities, though some caution is advised regarding crowds and safety during major events like New Year's Eve.
"A fabulous square with plenty of sights to see, historic buildings, walks in nearby streets, shopping and cafes and restaurants. Lively atmosphere in summer. Best enjoyed in the sun"
Solaiman Alam
"It's the Coppenhaguen City Hall Square. Biggest one in city. Dominated by City Hall, fountain, sculpture of trumpet and famous clock that depicts woman riding o bycicle in sunny days and a woman with an umbrella for rainy days. Lots of shops and eateries."
Roberto Vizcon
"Rådhuspladsen is a lively and spacious public square in the heart of Copenhagen, right in front of the impressive City Hall building. It’s a great spot to take in the architecture, sit and relax, or use as a central meeting point. There’s always something happening — street performers, events, or just the flow of locals and tourists passing through.
It’s also well-connected, with easy access to the metro, buses, and nearby attractions like Strøget and Tivoli Gardens. While the square itself doesn’t take long to explore, it’s definitely worth a stop when you’re in the area.
Would I recommend it?
✅ Yes, especially for a quick visit or photo stop during your city walk."
Obaid Ibrahim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen) is a central transport hub. You can easily reach it via metro (stations like Nørreport or Kongens Nytorv are a short walk away), bus, or even by walking from nearby attractions like Tivoli Gardens.
It's a key point for many city tours.Parking in central Copenhagen can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk. If you must drive, look for public parking garages in the vicinity, though they fill up quickly.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Nyhavn to City Hall Square, allowing you to see more of the city's charming streets along the way.
Absolutely! City Hall Square is a major bus interchange and is well-served by public transport. The Copenhagen Card also includes free public transport, making it easy to get around.
The square is the starting point for Strøget, a long pedestrian shopping street. You can also easily walk to Tivoli Gardens, the National Museum, and other central attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, City Hall Square itself is a public space and is free to enter and explore. You can walk around, enjoy the atmosphere, and see the exterior of City Hall.
Yes, you can visit the interior of Copenhagen City Hall. Tours are often available, and it's worth checking their schedule for specific times. The building is a masterpiece of Danish craftsmanship.
Jens Olsen's World Clock is located inside City Hall. Access to view the clock may be included with a City Hall tour or require a separate small fee, depending on current policies. It's best to check with City Hall directly for the most up-to-date information.
City Hall Square frequently hosts events, concerts, demonstrations, and celebrations, especially during summer and holidays.
Check local listings for any events happening during your visit.Opening hours for Copenhagen City Hall can vary, especially for tours. It's advisable to check the official City Hall website for the most current information on public access and tour times before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
Capture the grandeur of Copenhagen City Hall, the intricate details of Jens Olsen's World Clock, and the mythical dragons of the fountain.
The square also offers great views looking down Strøget.For fewer crowds and softer light, aim for early mornings.
Evenings can be magical with the square lit up, especially during events.The famous clock is Jens Olsen's World Clock, an incredibly complex astronomical clock that took decades to build and is a testament to Danish engineering.
Yes, look for the Dragon Fountain and the figures associated with it.
The square also features a sculpture of a trumpeter and the famous World Clock within City Hall.Absolutely! The constant flow of people, the diverse architecture, and the lively atmosphere make it a prime spot for street photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the square itself is more of a public space, it's surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries. You'll find options ranging from quick bites to more formal dining experiences right on the square or just off it.
There are many cafes around the square and along Strøget. For a local recommendation, try places like BUKA bakery for pastries and coffee
or Orsa for a coffee break.You'll find a wide variety of cuisines, from traditional Danish fare to international options. Many restaurants along Strøget and in the surrounding streets offer diverse menus.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like bakeries for pastries and sandwiches, or explore street food markets slightly further afield. The Copenhagen Card can also offer discounts at some eateries.
Definitely! Bakeries like Lagkagehuset are popular for traditional Danish pastries (wienerbrød) and can be found in the vicinity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a unique experience, look into tours of the City Hall, which might appeal to older children interested in history and impressive clocks like Jens Olsen's World Clock. While the square itself doesn't have specific child-focused attractions, its central location makes it a convenient hub for accessing family-friendly activities across Copenhagen.
🛍️ Shoppers & Style Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Copenhagen City Hall
Visitors can explore various halls, including the impressive Council Chamber and the Golden Hall, which is often used for banquets and ceremonies. The City Hall tower also offers panoramic views of the city, though access and opening times should be verified. The building itself is a work of art, with every element, from the door handles to the grand chandeliers, meticulously designed and executed by leading Danish artisans of the era.
For those interested in the history and artistry of Copenhagen, a visit to the City Hall is highly recommended. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's governance and its rich artistic heritage. Remember to check for guided tours to fully appreciate the depth of detail and history within its walls.
Navigating Rådhuspladsen: More Than Just a Square
The square is characterized by the imposing City Hall building on one side, a central fountain, and various sculptures, including the mythical dragons that were once part of a larger fountain. It's a place where locals and tourists converge, creating a lively and ever-changing atmosphere. During summer, street performers often add to the vibrant ambiance.
However, it's crucial to be aware of its dual nature. While it's a fantastic spot for people-watching and soaking in the city's energy, it can become extremely crowded and even chaotic during major events, particularly New Year's Eve. Travelers have reported intense firework displays that can feel unsafe, advising caution and suggesting alternative viewing spots for a more relaxed experience.
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