Denmark Travel Guide: A Family-Friendly Summer Escape at Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens
Dan Latif dives into Copenhagen’s most magical summer escape—Tivoli Gardens. From rooftop swims above the city skyline to fairy-tale theater, wooden rollercoasters, and dazzling fireworks, here's where to go, what to ride, and how to make the most of long Nordic nights in Denmark.
Editor’s Note
This article was originally written in French. The English translation is provided for convenience and is edited for clarity. Please consult a professional translator for further assistance.
A Rooftop Swim with a View at the Nimb Hotel
It’s summer in Copenhagen, and the weather is beautiful and warm — perfect for a swim. Perched above the Nimb Hotel, there’s an oasis offering a stunning panoramic view of the characteristic Nordic rooftops, including the clock tower of the City Hall, which stands out on the horizon. The magical view is further embellished by the various rides of the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, located just below.
Rooftop Pool at the Nimb. Image: Dan Latif.
The elegant turquoise-tiled pool provides a refreshing and invigorating break, with a counter-current swimming jet. The design of the furniture, from the sunbeds to the umbrellas and striped cushions, creates a chic beach vibe. After your swim, you can enjoy a cocktail or indulge in an ice cream in the various relaxation areas.
Cocktails at the American Bar and Performances Overlooking the Gardens
Next, we head to the terrace of the American Bar at the Nimb, overlooking the Tivoli Gardens. The waiter recommends a clarified Piña Colada, an astonishing light-colored concoction, complete with an ice cube sculpted like a jewel. Its fresh taste will surprise you and bring elegance back to what has become a rather frivolous cocktail.
American Bar at the Nimb Hotel. Image: Dan Latif.
As you savor some crispy toasts — gastronomic bites topped with Wagyu, smoked roe, and black garlic — a peacock, who has left his family behind, greets the guests and invites everyone to enjoy the show about to start right across on the Pantomime Theatre stage, where a performance of Cinderella is underway, with costumes and set designs created by Denmark’s Queen herself.
The theater at Tivoli Gardens. Image: Jakob Melgaard.
Rollercoasters as Danish Icons
Rutschebanen at Tivoli Gardens. Image: Dan Latif.
After this delicate introduction, it’s time to head to the iconic Rutschebanen, the world’s oldest wooden roller coaster, dating back to 1914. It's worth mentioning that Tivoli Gardens was founded in 1843 by Georg Carstensen, who wanted to create a cultural and social hub in Denmark — a park that later inspired the world-famous amusement park known to both children and adults. This all-wood ride promises guaranteed thrills and will leave you wanting to take another spin.
Take a step back in time with the vintage cars, reminiscent of old-fashioned vehicles where the little ones can take the wheel and drive off with a souvenir photo.
For more thrills, there’s the Milky Way, a newer roller coaster that offers a breathtaking view of the gardens from seventeen meters (fifty-five feet) in the air. Three fast-paced loops serve as a warm-up before the ultimate attraction: The Demon. This impressive roller coaster is undoubtedly the source of all the excited screams in the park, with its twists and three cascading loops at a height of 28 meters or nearly one-hundred feet.
A Moment to Unwind with Andersen
Tivoli Gardens. Image: Jakob Melgaard
After all these thrills, the Flying Trunks will be the perfect ride to relax, and an ideal opportunity to revisit the great classics of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous poet from Odense who wrote The Little Match Girl and The Little Mermaid. The lush gardens that embody the park are perfect for those who prefer strolling over rolling.
Fireworks and Live Music: The Grand Finale
Fireworks at Tivoli Gardens. Image: Jakob Melgaard.
Summer nights in Denmark are long, making it the perfect time to stroll through the illuminated alleys of the Tivoli Gardens. Hop aboard the Dragon Boats for a romantic cruise and end your evening at the Mikkeller Brewery, where you’ll enjoy typical Danish dishes alongside a true local craft beer, such as the Summer Lager or the Beer Geek Vanilla Shake Whisky, to finish off with a coffee notes.
Unknowingly, you’ll be sitting front and center for the Tivoli’s summer light show. A ten-minute interlude where jets of water in all colors move in a dance accompanied by real flames. An astonishing performance staged by Tue Friborg and soundtracked by Jeppe Kaas.
Fireworks at Tivoli Gardens. Image: Dan Latif.
Finally, the Tivoli Gardens are also the venue for Copenhagen’s most beautiful fireworks displays. With each season, new themes emerge, and visitors can watch a divine fireworks show in the front row, all set to music, leaving both children and adults starry-eyed, while the sky itself seems to be in awe.
The Interior Review Picks: Trusted Finds From This Trip
Tivoli Gardens. Image: Michelle Berg.
Where to Stay near Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
Nimb Hotel — This luxurious boutique hotel is located inside Tivoli Gardens and offers stunning rooftop views, elegant interiors, and access to the turquoise-tiled pool overlooking Copenhagen’s skyline. Located at Bernstorffsgade 5, 1577 Copenhagen, Denmark. More information here.
Where to Eat and Drink near Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
American Bar at the Nimb — Home to the clarified Piña Colada and gourmet toasts topped with Wagyu, smoked roe, and black garlic. Ideal for sipping cocktails while watching performances at the Pantomime Theatre. Located inside the Nimb Hotel, Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Mikkeller at Tivoli Food Hall — Grab Danish comfort food and enjoy local brews like Beer Geek Vanilla Shake Whisky while overlooking the gardens. Located at Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 Copenhagen, Denmark. More information here.
What to Do near Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Gardens — Founded in 1843, this iconic amusement park features thrill rides, stage performances, lush gardens, and light shows — perfect for summer evenings. Located at Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 Copenhagen, Denmark. More information here.
Rutschebanen Rollercoaster — The world’s oldest wooden roller coaster from 1914 — a must for history buffs and thrill seekers alike. Located inside Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Dragon Boats at Tivoli Lake — A romantic way to cruise beneath the lights of Tivoli in dragon-shaped paddle boats. Located at the Tivoli Gardens lake area. More information here.
Pantomime Theatre — Open-air theatre with live fairytale performances like Cinderella, featuring costumes designed by Denmark’s Queen. Located inside Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Tivoli Light Show — A 10-minute show of choreographed fountains, lights, and flames set to original music. Ideal end to a summer night. Located at the Main lake area, Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Fireworks at Tivoli — Seasonal themed fireworks set to music that light up the Copenhagen sky. A magical way to end the day. Located at various points within Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Tivoli Concert Series — Headliners include Tom Jones (July 19th, 2025) and Bryan Adams (August 8–9th, 2025). Bring a blanket and enjoy from the lawn. Located at Tivoli’s Main Stage. More information and schedule here.
Seasonal Highlights at Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Garden & Flower Festival — August 30th, 2025 through September 14th, 2025 — Celebrate late summer with larger-than-life floral displays, garden installations, and themed programs across the park. Located at Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Halloween in Tivoli — October 3rd, 2025 through November 2nd, 2025) — Jack-o’-lanterns, haunted houses, and autumn-inspired food and drink transform the park into a cozy Halloween haven. Located at Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
Christmas in Tivoli — 14 November 14th, 2025 through January 4th, 2026 — Tivoli becomes a glowing winter wonderland with Christmas markets, light displays, and warm seasonal treats. Located at Tivoli Gardens. More information here.
The Interior Review Travel Guides
Dan Latif dives into Copenhagen’s most magical summer escape—Tivoli Gardens. From rooftop swims above the city skyline to fairy-tale theater, wooden rollercoasters, and dazzling fireworks, here's where to go, what to ride, and how to make the most of long Nordic nights in Denmark.