5 Weird Facts About Copenhagen (That Might Surprise You)

Copenhagen is considered one of the world’s most liveable cities, but beneath its colorful canals and amazing history lies a side that's wonderfully weird. From icy swims to record-breaking quirks, Denmark’s capital is full of unexpected stories that prove this city is anything but ordinary.

Here are five weird facts about Copenhagen... plus one strange stop you won’t want to miss while you’re there.

1. Half the City Commutes by Bike... All Year Long

Copenhagen takes cycling very seriously. Around 50% of residents commute by bicycle every day, rain, wind, or snow. The city even has over 400 kilometers of bike lanes, plus dedicated cycle bridges over canals.

This bike-first lifestyle is a part of Copenhagen’s identity and commitment to sustainability.

2. You Can Swim in the Middle of the City

Thanks to a massive cleanup effort, the city’s harbor is so clean that locals swim right downtown. In fact, Copenhagen has been named one of the best cities in the world for urban swimming, with harbor baths and beaches just minutes from the city center.

Even more wild? Mussels live and grow in the harbor, proving just how clean the water really is.

3. Two of the Oldest Amusement Parks on Earth Are Here

Copenhagen is home to two historic amusement parks:

Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest amusement park in the world and famously inspired Walt Disney.

Bakken, just north of the city, holds the title of the oldest operating amusement park anywhere.

4. Ice-Cold Swimming Is a Winter Hobby

Thousands of locals take part in winter bathing, plunging into icy waters during the coldest months of the year.

With over 29,000 registered winter swimmers, it's more than just a cold dip; it's a chilly tradition!

5. The City Loves the Strange

Copenhagen has a deep appreciation for the unusual, the curious, and the downright bizarre. From self-governing neighborhoods to ice swims and amazing amusement park history, the city embraces the idea that truth can be stranger than fiction.

Which brings us to one of Copenhagen’s most unforgettable attractions…

Experience the Weird at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Copenhagen

Located in the heart of the city at Rådhuspladsen, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Copenhagen is the perfect place to dive into the strange side of the world.

Inside, you’ll find:

Hundreds of real, unbelievable artifacts
Mind-bending illusions and interactive exhibits
Photo-worthy experiences for all ages

From shrunken heads to optical illusions and jaw-dropping oddities, Ripley’s proves that Copenhagen’s love of the weird is alive and well.

Whether you’re escaping the cold, filling an afternoon, or looking for something totally unexpected, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Copenhagen delivers an unforgettable break from the ordinary.

More Unusual Experiences... All in One Place

One of the best things about visiting Ripley’s in Copenhagen? The proximity to other Ripley's Attractions! It's so easy you can bike! With the Ripley’s Unlimited Fun Pass , you can turn one strange stop into a full day of unforgettable fun. See four incredible Attractions, plus enjoy free guests! Did we mention that the Unlimited Fun Pass is good for 6 months?

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Copenhagen : Marvel at hundreds of rare and unusual artifacts and get hands-on with unbelievable interactives at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Copenhagen.
Guinness World Records Museum : Experience records big and small, expected and unexpected, with incredible displays, interactive games, and unbelievable exhibits, sure to twist your Copenhagen sightseeing.
The Mystic Exploratorie : Follow the shiver down your spine as you visit a haunted graveyard, swap faces with your friends, take a seat in an electric chair, and face the unknown!
The Hans Christian Andersen Experience : Be enchanted as Hans Christian Andersen's most-loved fairy tales come to life before your eyes with light, sound, and scent!