The dark Danish winter has come to an early halt. The birds and the bees are busy, the buds are blossoming and, in and around the city, a furious frenzy of activity is unfolding, including both children and adults.
Granted, this year’s spring-time activities may not be as numerous as in previous years due to the continued restrictions brought on by corona, but there are still many wonders waiting to be discovered for the whole family.
No limit to the fun
Thanks to the lifting of limits on outdoor gatherings, which has seen the permissible number raised from five to 50 this month, there’s nothing stopping the whole family – and their neighbours, providing they’re not in the same vehicle! – from going out for an afternoon, or even a day-trip.
Denmark’s many outdoor themeparks and cultural institutions are open and ready to accommodate you throughout this Easter break.
Frolick with the flamingos!
Copenhagen Zoo, Roskildevej 32, Frederiksberg; open Mon-Fri 10:00-16:00 & Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00, March 27-31, 09:00-18:00; zoo.dk
Take advantage of the late opening hours from March 27-31 and watch the animals as twilight descends. To avoid the spread of COVID-19, the zoo has updated its digital app for your self-guided tour. The zoo also has an on-site testing centre open every day from 09:00-15:00. Alternatively, you can enter the zoo with a COVID test no older than 72 hours. Children under 15 are exempt from presenting a negative test.
Hurtling down the hill
Copenhill, Vindmøllevej 6C, Cph S; open Mon-Fri 14:00-20:00, Sat 10:00-20:00, Sun 10:00-18:00; copenhill.dk
In a country of purely flat land, any amount of height is worth celebrating. Copenhill, a man-made mount located on Refshaleøen is one option to get the family together for some mountain sports. The peak has a hiking trail that reaches an altitude of 85 metres overlooking the Øresund. After you’ve reached the summit, you’ll be met with options to ski or snowboard down the turf. For those more inclined to climb rather than to descend, the world’s tallest climbing wall is an alternative activity.
Steamy in the spa
Copenhot, Refshalevej 325, Cph K; open Wed-Sun 10:00-21:00; copenhot.com
Not far from Copenhill, you can end the day with the Danish version of ‘apres-ski’ at Copenhot. Enjoy a spa at the location or set off into the harbour. For a spa that sits five, it costs 1,300 an hour (as opposed to 300 kroner for individuals on their own). For a more intimate experience, choose the option that includes a bottle of Cava for 1,580 kroner. Or for 2,200 kroner, take one of the two ‘Sailing Hot Tubs’ out for a 90-minute spin in the harbour. Reservations are advised for group bookings.
Thrills at the themeparks
Tivoli, Vesterbrogade 3, Cph V; open 11:00-20:00, March 27-April 5, Fri-Sun until end of April; tivoli.dk
After nearly a four-month closure, Tivoli is reopening this weekend. Everyone over the age of 15 needs to present a negative COVID test taken within the previous 72 hours. Additionally, all visitors need to reserve a time before showing up. Be sure to download the official app for more information. Meanwhile, Bakken (Dyrehavevej 62, Klampenborg) has reopened as well.
Out there in ‘Old Denmark’
Frilandsmuseet (Open Air Museum), Kongevejen 100, Kongens Lyngby; open Tue-Sun 10:00-16:00; natmus.dk
A 20-minute drive from the city, or a quick S-train trip to Sorgenfri, is a journey back in time. Learn about authentic old Danish living experiences in this outdoor history lesson of straw-houses, horse and buggy rides, and old gravel paths. Discover how farmers lived and worked in different regions of Denmark between the 1700-1900s. Offering heaps of outdoor activities and over 100 buildings, Frilandsmuseet will entertain the young-ins during the Easter break. Remember to call in advance if you wish to book a carriage ride.
Gawping at the giants
Various suburbs in Greater Cph; any time you’re brave enough
Discovering Copenhagen’s neighbouring municipalities might not be the first thing on one’s to-do list, but then you learn about the hidden trolls lurking in its undergrowth. They’re the work of sculptor and artist Thomas Dambo, who reuses scrap wood materials to create mystical figures such as Little Tilde. ‘The Six Forgotten Giants’ can be found in Rødovre, Hvidovre, Vallensbæk, Ishøj, Albertslund and Høje Taastrup, but more have been added during the pandemic. They are all waiting to be discovered.
Swooning on safari
Knuthenborg Safaripark, Knuthenborg Alle 1, Maribo; open daily 10:00-17:00; adults 230kr, kids 140kr; knuthenborg.dk
The Knuthenborg Estate on Lolland is home to wildlife from all over the world – 1,000 different species at the last count. Since 1969, the 500-hectare safari park, which is the biggest of its kind in Denmark, has been drawing them in. The estate has a Dinosaur Park, an amusement park, an old manor house, a castle and countless activities. Don’t miss the tiger area where you can see them up close and personal! Just an hour and a half car ride from Copenhagen – what are you waiting for.
