Amid the hustle and bustle of Copenhagen, there are gardens that not only burst with joy and color but also satisfy your insatiable thirst for adventure and thrills.
Tivoli Gardens, located in the heart of Denmark’s capital, is the fifth most visited amusement park in all of Europe. Open since 1843, it’s also the second oldest park of its kind in the world (the only older one is Dyrehavsbakken, also located near Copenhagen). The unique atmosphere of this place is evidenced not only by the millions of guests who pass through its gates each year. There are even rumors that the relaxed and colorful vibe of the park inspired Disneyland Paris.
Outdoor Fun
This extraordinary garden of attractions is a paradise for fun-seeking tourists of all ages. The hearts of the youngest visitors will surely be captured by wacky bumper cars, classic carousels, and surprising rides. But there are plenty of attractions that families can enjoy together. You’ll find a Ferris wheel, a crazy obstacle course for all ages, a boat adventure, or a train ride around Tivoli in special wagons. The most popular family attraction in the Danish park is The Roller Coaster, one of the oldest still-operating wooden roller coasters in the world. Built in 1914, it is still operated manually by a park employee.
For an additional fee, you can also enjoy a section of the park inspired by a real fairground. Each booth offers a new challenge. Whether you’re shooting at targets, throwing basketballs, or popping balloons, you can have great fun, feel a touch of competition, and even win a unique souvenir from your visit to Tivoli.
A Touch of Madness
Adrenaline junkies are probably looking for information on slightly different attractions. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the haunted Villa Vendetta and its terrifying inhabitants. But don’t worry, if horror isn’t your thing, you’ll surely love the wild roller coasters. Experience rides that turn you upside down, with rapid climbs, drops, and dizzying turns. Don’t miss The Star Flyer, one of the tallest swing rides in Northern Europe, offering not only a thrill but also spectacular views of the surrounding area.
GOOD TO KNOW: Some coasters, like The Demon or The Mine, capture photos of your expressions during the ride, which can be printed afterward at a special booth. So, if you want a fun keepsake from this thrilling day, remember to tuck away your fear and smile wide as you speed up or tackle those wild curves! 🙂
Rasmus Klump’s World
Although this comic character is not particularly popular in Poland, the friendly bear is sure to bring a smile to your children’s faces. They can get to know him during lively performances organized by Rasmus and his friends. However, this part of the park offers more than just meetings and animations. Kids can enjoy a challenging, themed playground, take a fun ride, and eat pancakes with jam, which Rasmus Klump loves so much.
More Than Just an Amusement Park
It only takes one step into the park to realize that this place offers much more than just rides and playgrounds. Walking paths lead between cafes, fountains, flower beds, and tall trees. For relaxation, choose the classic orangery that gives the garden an exotic atmosphere, or if you prefer a livelier vibe, take a stroll along Tivoli’s traditional Danish shopping street, made authentic by vintage-style shop signs.
In Tivoli Gardens, there is no shortage of places to fill your stomach during a break from the attractions. You can dine at one of the many restaurants or explore the special food hall, where, while your kids insist on the same pizza as usual, you can still enjoy a taste of Mexico, eat sushi, or try flavors from India. After satisfying your hunger, you can also shop. In addition to typical tourist favorites like keychains or miniatures of the park’s iconic buildings, you’ll also find unique interior decor items, handmade crafts, and of course, as befits Denmark – LEGO sets.
Green Tivoli
The “gardens” in the park’s name are no coincidence. Tivoli is not only a place for fun but also for relaxation and tranquility in the shade of trees. One of the most popular green areas among Danes is the Hanging Gardens, perfect for picnics. The gardens with a pergola allow visitors to enjoy not only the view of fountains but also the fragrance of plants, especially in spring when the apple trees bloom with delicate flowers. In Tivoli, you’ll also find an azalea and rhododendron zone, a corner dedicated entirely to edible plants, and the rose gardens near the concert hall. The Parterre Gardens are also popular, boasting 22 flower beds and 32 water basins.
As if that weren’t enough, Tivoli Gardens will also take you on a small journey eastward. Palms and exotic plants give one area an oriental atmosphere, while Far Eastern vegetation and a bamboo forest surrounding the Demon roller coaster transport you to the pristine regions of China.
A Day in Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Park is a place in Copenhagen worth dedicating an entire day to, as the aforementioned attractions are still not everything it offers its guests. The park also houses a ballet school, whose students constantly impress audiences. There are also theatrical performances, and both the concert hall and outdoor stage regularly host performances of classical music, jazz, rock, or pop.
With a bit of luck, you might also stumble upon larger-scale events, such as the magical Flower Festival, which takes place at the end of August and into September. Tivoli Gardens also takes on a festive atmosphere during days like Father’s Day or the American holiday of July 4th. You’ll also experience a unique ambiance during Halloween, Christmas, or Easter.
Tivoli’s Guard
It’s rare for an amusement park to have its own guard, making it all the more worthwhile to see Tivoli’s Youth Guard. Established in 1844, on the park’s second anniversary, the guard still operates today, though in the form of a year-round music school for young people. A group of 100 teenagers, dressed in uniforms similar to those worn by the guards of Copenhagen’s Amalienborg Palace, is well-known not only in Denmark but also internationally. Between overseas trips, they also find time for local performances. To find out when the Tivoli Youth Guard will be showcasing their skills in Tivoli Gardens, simply check the current schedule on the park’s official website.
Guided Tour
During the season, guided tours are also offered around the gardens. Opting for such a tour, you’ll quickly forget that you’re walking through an amusement park. Instead, you’ll appreciate the long and fascinating history of the gardens, get a behind-the-scenes look at the Pantomime Theatre, and learn more about the contemporary art displayed throughout Tivoli Gardens.
For those who especially value independence, another way to explore the park’s history may be more appealing. StoryHunt is a tour that, through 14 audio stories, reveals the fascinating, lesser-known side of Tivoli. As you leisurely stroll through the park, you’ll hear about Nazi attacks during World War II, Danish design, and Copenhagen’s culinary culture. After the tour, you can even test your newfound knowledge with a specially prepared quiz.
Before Your Trip to Tivoli Gardens
Want to explore Denmark’s fun side? At Tivoli Gardens, you’ll have no doubt that Danes know how to enjoy themselves. And this applies whether you’re staying in the capital or not. Tivoli Gardens is conveniently located near key landmarks such as the central train station and Castle Island. Thanks to this prime location, you can easily reach the park by public transport from anywhere in Denmark.
However, before you hop on a train or bus, it’s best to purchase tickets online (you can find them here, for example). By getting your tickets in advance, you’ll avoid any potential lines at the ticket office. But be careful what you buy. An entry ticket to the gardens does not include access to the rides. To experience the thrills, you’ll need to purchase a Ride Pass, which allows unlimited access to all the park’s attractions.
Practical information
- It is best to purchase tickets for Tivoli Gardens in advance. This way, you can avoid standing in long lines and reduce the risk of tickets being sold out.
- Address: Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V, Denmark
- Buy tickets on GetYourGuide
