The Round Tower, Copenhagen - Rundetaarn, Copenhagen
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The Round Tower Copenhagen

4.5
·26k reviews·København, Denmark

Ascend Europe's oldest working observatory via a unique spiral ramp for breathtaking 360° views of Copenhagen.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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The Round Tower, Copenhagen - Rundetaarn, Copenhagen

The Round Tower Copenhagen

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend Europe's oldest working observatory via a unique spiral ramp for breathtaking 360° views of Copenhagen.

4.5
(26k reviews)

"The views were definitely worth it tho!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go early to avoid crowds

Beat the rush for the best photos and a more peaceful experience on the ramp .

👟 Wear comfy shoes!

The spiral ramp is long, and the final steps are stairs. Comfort is key for the climb .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Spiral Ramp

The Spiral Ramp

A continuous, gentle slope instead of stairs, designed for horse-drawn carriages. A unique architectural marvel!

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Observation Deck

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Copenhagen's charming rooftops and waterways. Perfect for photos!

Europe's Oldest Observatory

Europe's Oldest Observatory

Top of the Tower

Explore the historic observatory and learn about its scientific past. A glimpse into celestial exploration!

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds on the Spiral Ramp

The Round Tower's unique spiral ramp means you'll be sharing the path. Visit early or late to avoid peak times and enjoy the 360° views without the hustle. Kids under 17/18 often get free entry, making it a budget-friendly option for families.Reddit

Prepare for the Ascent

While there are no stairs for most of the climb, the continuous spiral ramp can be tiring. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a unique walk. The final steps to the very top observation deck do involve stairs, but the panoramic Copenhagen views are worth the effort.InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for views
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (seasonal)
Why
Magical city lights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Copenhagen then & now ⌛️ For months, it’s been my dream to recreate this amazing photo from 1916, shot from inside the crown of the tallest tower in Copenhagen - Christiansborg. I’m excited to say that it finally happened! 👏🎉 Before photo: Peter Elfelt, 1916 Source: Det Kongelige Bibliotek #christiansborgslot #tårnet #cphthenandnow #cphrephotography #cphrephotographyproject #rephotography #købe...
@christiannielsenmedia
105.8K likes • 827K views

🎯 Go early to avoid crowds

Beat the rush for the best photos and a more peaceful experience on the ramp.Reddit

👟 Wear comfy shoes!

The spiral ramp is long, and the final steps are stairs. Comfort is key for the climb.Instagram

Free thing to do in Copenhagen ✨ Tucked away in the heart of Copenhagen, the Old Library at Fiolstræde 1 is a hidden gem 📚✨. This historic building is perfect for book lovers, architecture buffs, or anyone looking for a quiet escape in the city. Whether you're here to explore its rich history or just soak in the ambiance, it’s a must-visit spot! Did you know? If you're a student and can show your ...
@un.italiana.a.cop
28.4K likes • 632K views
Round Tower, copenhagen, Denmark, Europe Where you can enjoy the whole city view from the top of tower. Who captured me: @gaurang__ Special credit for sunglass owner @amithorr 😇
secret_moon95
135 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the ramp's curve

The unique spiral design makes for stunning interior photos. Get creative with angles.Instagram

💰 Check for free entry

Kids under 17/18 often get in free, making it a great family outing.Reddit

Never been so out of breath walking up a ramp...views were definitely worth it tho 🫠 @theroundtower
kylie_hickam
84 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go early to avoid crowds

Beat the rush for the best photos and a more peaceful experience on the ramp.Reddit

👟 Wear comfy shoes!

The spiral ramp is long, and the final steps are stairs. Comfort is key for the climb.Instagram

📸 Capture the ramp's curve

The unique spiral design makes for stunning interior photos. Get creative with angles.Instagram

💰 Check for free entry

Kids under 17/18 often get in free, making it a great family outing.Reddit

🔭 Look for the observatory

Don't miss the historic observatory at the top – it's Europe's oldest working one! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(26k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about The Round Tower's unique spiral ramp and the breathtaking 360-degree views of Copenhagen from the top. The affordable entry fee and free access for children make it a popular choice for families and budget travelers. While the climb is generally easy, some note the final steps to the observation deck are stairs, and restroom cleanliness could be improved.

"I came here around 4pm on a weekday and did not have to wait. Entry was around 9,4$. Good to know: To reach the top with the nice view you need to take some stairs at the end. View is amazing from up there."

Armin Kalidado

"A nice walk up the round tower! Not staircases, just a walkway like walking or driving up a multi-story parking. 😃 lovely 360 views at the top if the weather permits. Lucky when we went it was dry and sunny so it was just perfect!"

Videss

"Not for those that walk a little uphill as there is no elevator. It’s a quick visit and there’s an entry fee but kids under 17 or 18 are free. There’s an observation deck 35m up and then walk back down. It’s probably really nice during sunset also"

V M

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Unique spiral ramp
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Restroom cleanliness
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Round Tower is centrally located in Copenhagen, easily accessible by public transport. You can take buses to nearby stops like 'Købmagergade' or 'Nørreport Station'. It's also a pleasant walk from many central attractions, and cycling is a popular option in Copenhagen.TikTok

Yes, The Round Tower is very walkable from many popular spots. It's situated in the heart of the city, making it easy to combine with visits to Strøget shopping street, Rosenborg Castle, or the King's Garden.

The nearest metro station is Nørreport, which is a major hub. From Nørreport, it's a short, easy walk to The Round Tower. Several bus lines also stop very close by.

Absolutely! Copenhagen is a very bike-friendly city. There are usually bike racks available near the tower, making it a convenient option for cyclists.

Parking in central Copenhagen can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport, cycle, or walk to The Round Tower rather than driving.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are generally affordable. As of recent information, entry is around 9.4 USD (or equivalent in DKK). It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.Reddit

Yes, children under 17 or 18 years old typically receive free admission, making it a great value for families.Reddit

It's often possible to purchase tickets online in advance through the official Round Tower website. This can save you time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons.

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, it's open daily, but it's best to check the official Round Tower website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any special closures.

While there isn't a strict time limit for your visit, the tower can get busy. The unique spiral ramp and observation deck offer a relatively quick but memorable experience. Some reviews suggest a limited number of people are allowed up at once, which is great for managing crowds.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Round Tower features a unique, continuous spiral ramp that winds its way up for about 209 meters, rather than stairs for most of the ascent. This was designed so the King could ride his horse to the top! Instagram There are final steps to the very top observation deck.

The spiral ramp makes it accessible for many, but it's not a flat surface and can be tiring. There are no elevators for the main climb. The final steps to the observation deck are stairs, so it may not be suitable for everyone.Reddit

The observation deck offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Copenhagen's historic city center, including its colorful rooftops, canals, and landmarks. It's a fantastic spot for photography.Instagram+1

Yes, restrooms are available within The Round Tower. However, some visitor reviews have noted that the cleanliness could be improved.Reddit

Yes, the ascent itself is an experience! Along the spiral ramp, you'll find exhibition spaces and historical displays that offer insights into the tower's past and its role as an observatory.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The spiral ramp itself offers incredible architectural shots, especially looking up or down its curve.Instagram The panoramic views from the observation deck are also prime photo opportunities, particularly during sunrise or sunset.Reddit

It can be challenging to get photos without other visitors, especially during busy times, due to the narrow ramp and shared space.Reddit Going early or late can help, or being patient and waiting for a moment.

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check the official Round Tower website or inquire on-site, as they might have restrictions to ensure smooth visitor flow on the ramp.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping curves of the ramp and the expansive city views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general sightseeing. Consider a polarizing filter for enhancing sky colors on a clear day.

Definitely! The interplay of light and shadow on the ramp, the historic observatory equipment, and the views through the windows offer many unique photographic possibilities.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Round Tower is a fantastic outing for families! The spiral ramp is a unique and fun way for kids to 'climb' a tower, feeling like they're on an adventure rather than just climbing stairs.Instagram The novelty of riding up (even if it's on foot!) is often a hit. Plus, the panoramic views from the top are exciting for all ages, offering a bird's-eye perspective of Copenhagen.Instagram

Keep in mind that while the ramp is gradual, it's continuous, so younger children might need encouragement. The final steps to the very top observation deck are stairs, so be mindful of that. A major plus is that children under 17 or 18 often get free entry, making it a very budget-friendly activity for families.Reddit It's a relatively quick visit, perfect for keeping little ones engaged without them getting too restless.

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Round Tower is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers exploring Copenhagen. The entry fee is nominal, and the experience offers significant value with its unique architecture and stunning views.Reddit Furthermore, kids under 17 or 18 typically get free admission, which is a huge plus for families traveling on a budget.Reddit

Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding charming streets of Copenhagen, which are free to explore. The tower's central location means you can easily walk or cycle there, saving on transportation costs. It's a memorable attraction that doesn't break the bank, offering a great return on your investment for incredible city views and a unique architectural experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel: A Ramp to the Sky

The Round Tower (Rundetårn) is not just a tower; it's a testament to 17th-century ingenuity. Built between 1637 and 1642, it was part of a larger cultural complex commissioned by King Christian IV. Its most distinctive feature is the imposing spiral ramp that winds its way up for nearly 210 meters. Unlike traditional staircases, this gradual slope was designed to allow the King and his entourage to ride horses and carriages all the way to the top, a feat of engineering for its time.Instagram This unique design makes the ascent an experience in itself, offering changing perspectives as you climb.

As you ascend the ramp, you'll pass through various exhibition spaces that often showcase art or historical displays. The tower also houses Europe's oldest working observatory, a fascinating glimpse into centuries of astronomical research. While the main climb is via the ramp, the very top observation deck is reached by a short set of stairs, rewarding visitors with unparalleled panoramic views of Copenhagen.Instagram+1 The combination of architectural innovation, historical significance, and breathtaking vistas makes The Round Tower a must-visit.

Capturing Copenhagen: Photography Tips

The Round Tower offers a photographer's dream with its unique architecture and stunning cityscapes. The spiral ramp provides endless opportunities for dramatic shots, playing with perspective and the curves of the walls. Try shooting from the bottom looking up, or from various points along the ramp to capture the sense of ascent.Instagram The light filtering through the windows can create beautiful patterns, especially on a sunny day.

At the summit, the observation deck presents a 360-degree panorama of Copenhagen. This is the perfect spot for wide-angle shots of the city's charming rooftops, the harbor, and distant landmarks. Consider visiting during the golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) for warm, soft light that enhances the city's beauty.Reddit Be prepared for crowds, as it's a popular spot, and patience might be needed to get that perfect, unobstructed shot.Reddit Remember to also capture the details of the historic observatory at the top, adding a layer of scientific history to your photographic narrative.Instagram

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