Copenhagen City Hall
Copenhagen's City Hall is one of the city's tallest buildings, and its tower offers breathtaking views from the heart of the Danish capital. Its architecture is a perfect symbol of Copenhagen's storied past.
Copenhagen's City Hall was inaugurated in 1905 following the architectural design of Danish architect Martin Nyrop. The building was designed with many decorative nods to the capital city's rich history. On the building's facade rests a figure of Copenhagen's founder, warrior bishop Absalon. In this depiction of the historical figure, he's dressed in traditional religious clothing, though throughout the capital city, you can find many different depictions of the bishop on horseback.
The decor of Copenhagen's City Hall building also makes several nods to endemic flora and fauna. If you look closely, you can see sculptural details on the building of jellyfish, algae, seagulls, crows, and even polar bears that represent not just the frigid temperatures in Copenhagen but also the annexation of Greenland to the nation.
The main hall is undoubtedly the most beautiful space within the City Hall building, decorated with Danish flags and busts of significant figures in Danish history, like Andersen and Nyrop.
Jens Olsen World Clock
This historic clock, designed by Danish watchmaker Jens Olsen, began its work in 1955 when former king Frederick IX rang the bells for the first time. The clock's system itself is composed of over 15,000 pieces, allowing it to predict solar and lunar eclipses, track astronomical positions and different time zones, and much more!
City Hall Tower
The highlight of a trip to Copenhagen's City Hall is definitely the climb up to its watchtower. From a lofty 100 meters (328 feet) high, visitors can enjoy some of the best views of the Danish capital, making the 300-stair climb well worth it. The Tivoli Gardens, the Church of Our Savior, and the Nyhavn Canal are all visible at this height.
In addition to the breathtaking views, visitors can visit the exhibition showcasing the history of the city hall building upon reaching the top of the tower.
Radhuspladsen, Copenhagen City Hall's Plaza
Copenhagen's City Hall Plaza is the city's most central and common meeting point among locals. At Radhuspladsen, visitors can see remains of Copenhagen's ancient border wall, the dragon fountain, and a statue of Vikings playing the lur.
Schedule
Tower Visit:
Monday to Friday: from 11 am to 2 pm
Saturdays: at 12 pm
Sundays: closed
Guided tours by Town Hall:
Monday to Friday: at 1 pm
Saturdays: at 10 am
Price
City Hall Tower: 30 kr (US$ 4.23).
Guided tour: 65 kr (US$ 9.16).
Transport
Walking distance from Central Station København H
Bus: lines 10, 12, 14, 26, 28 and 33
Nearby places
Tivoli Gardens (218 m) Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek in Copenhagen (361 m) National Museum of Denmark (413 m) Copenhagen's Thorvaldsen Museum (641 m) Danish War Museum (653 m)