Discover Tivoli Gardens: Copenhagen’s iconic amusement park

Copenhagen is home to Denmark's second oldest amusement park, Tivoli Gardens, one of the Danish capital's most iconic spots, commonly visited in spring and summer as well as in December for the amazing Christmas decorations. It’s one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe, where you can find enchanting gardens, historic architecture, and thrilling rides since its opening in 1843. This park is one of the places that inspired the creation of Disneyland, and it is just a few steps away from our NH Copenhagen Grand Joanne hotel

What is the history of Tivoli Gardens?

This amusement park was founded in 1843 by businessman George Carstensen, who convinced King Christian VII to create an entertainment area surrounded by nature under the idea that “when people are having fun, they don't think about politics”. So little by little this entertainment place became an escape for the inhabitants of Copenhagen, with gardens, restaurants and a wide range of leisure facilities in a uniquely beautiful setting. At the entrance to the park, a statue of Carstensen can be seen as a tribute to the entrepreneur who created the park. 

The name Tivoli was given in honor of the Italian town of the same name, which is home to one of the most emblematic and beautiful gardens in the world. Moreover, the amusement park has evolved, adding new rides such as roller coasters and shows, without leaving its initial classic charm. It has been a source of inspiration for attractions and parks all over the world, such as Disneyland, which gives it great cultural value.

What is special about Tivoli Gardens?

It has several features that make it special and unique. One of them is that you can discover part of Denmark's history and heritage. For example, in Valhalla Castle you will learn about the Nordic culture and in the attraction known as the flying suitcases or Den flyv Kuffert you can learn about the stories of the famous Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen. 

Another interesting fact is that Tivoli amusement park in Copenhagen has maintained its original structure since its opening, so you can relive the charm of the nineteenth century in every detail. This is the case of its main entrance, considered a piece of art that has not undergone any modification since its inauguration. 

Admire the mixture of elements of Danish romanticism with Chinese, Middle Eastern and European influences in the design. You can see this eclectic blend of styles everywhere in the park, from the Victorian-inspired buildings to intricate Chinese pagodas, creating a truly unique place where nature, culture and entertainment come together to amaze viewers on every visit.

What are the main attractions of Tivoli Gardens?

Tivoli Garden has many points of interest that make it a fantastic plan for the whole family. We tell you which are its most emblematic attractions.

Roller coasters and themed areas

Copenhagen's Tivoli amusement park is home to many exciting attractions, making it a popular destination for adventure lovers. When you visit, don't miss its old wooden roller coaster, known as Rutschebanen, which was built in 1914. Rising 11.89 metres above the ground, this roller coaster picks up speed as it reaches 49.8 km/h, making for a fast and lively ride.

The Dæmonen, or The Demon, is another of Tivoli Gardens’ best-known roller coasters. This modern looping ride reaches speeds of up to 77.2 km/h (48 mph). If you’d rather take things at a gentler pace, there are plenty of family-friendly options too. The Flying Trunk, for example, takes you through scenes inspired by Danish fairy tales.

There’s more to Tivoli than its rides, too. The gardens are divided into themed areas; each has its own look and feel. In the Arabian Garden, Middle Eastern-inspired buildings surround the pathways, while the Chinese Garden is home to a traditional-looking pagoda and attractions influenced by Asian design.

What are the family-friendly attractions and activities in the park?

Tivoli Gardens is a great option for families, with plenty of gentle rides where your kids can enjoy the thrill of the rides in a safe and fun amusement park.

Also, the park's beautifully landscaped gardens are perfect for a stroll or a picnic with views of its colourful buildings. Besides, this amusement park in Copenhagen offers a variety of family activities such as puppet shows, musical performances, and even interactive workshops where kids can make crafts and get creative.

Seasonal events and festivities in Tivoli amusement park in Copenhagen

This Danish park is famous for its seasonal events. For example, spring brings colorful flowers while summer is full of outdoor performances and late-night shows. The autumn season in Tivoli is particularly magical, as the park is beautifully decorated with Halloween-themed displays and special events. 

However, the park’s most famous seasonal event is its Christmas celebrations. During the holiday season, the second oldest amusement park in Europe transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, a Christmas market, and festive decorations. The park’s Christmas atmosphere is one of the most enchanting in Europe, attracting visitors from all over the world. 

Stroll through the park and discover the little nisse (Santa's Danish elves) and the numerous stalls, decorated wooden huts and illuminated Christmas trees in a snowy landscape. Taste the typical gløg (mulled wine with spices), freshly fried doughnuts and doughnuts and admire the honey cake castle.

Dining and entertainment options

But this amusement park in Copenhagen is not just about rides and attractions; it also offers various dining options to never go hungry while you’re exploring it. So, here you will find from casual snack bars to fine-dining restaurants to all tastes and budgets. However, if you want a truly special experience, try dining at Restaurant Grøften, one of Tivoli’s oldest restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional Danish fare. 

For those seeking entertainment, Tivoli is also home of several live shows, concerts, and performances. So, don’t miss the opportunity to know the Tivoli Concert Hall and the Tivoli Gardens Theater, which regularly host performances ranging from classical music to comedy and theater productions. And remember, the mix of dining and entertainment options ensures that visitors can spend an entire day or evening in the park, so try to go before the sunset and enjoy the magic of the park in the day and the night in one visit.

Travel hacks and tips for visiting Tivoli Gardens

Organizing a trip, whether it's for the whole family or a short getaway for a couple, can be stressful. Take note of these keys to enjoy a stay in Copenhagen without stress and full of unique experiences.

Best Time to Visit

While Tivoli Gardens is open year-round, the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. In summer you will find all the attractions open to experience the park in its most fun form because it’s full of lively events and outdoor performances. However, Christmas is another magical time to visit, when the park is transformed into a winter wonderland. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the off-season, such as early spring or late autumn.

Navigating the park and purchasing tickets and passes

Considering that Tivoli is not overwhelmingly large, we can say is relatively easy to navigate, with clear signage and designated areas. So, this makes it possible to explore all of its key attractions in a few hours, so save at least 2 hours to know each corner of this park. On the other hand, to access you need to purchase tickets, which can be bought at the entrance or in advance online. You can choose between a single-day ticket or a Tivoli Pass, which offers unlimited access to the park’s rides for a set period of time. For more information about tickets and passes, check the official website here.

Visit the oldest amusement park in Copenhagen

We hope you've seen the potential of Tivoli Gardens for a fun family vacation. This is a magical place where history, architecture, entertainment, and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience for those who visit it. And remember, Copenhagen Tivoli Amusement Park offers something for everyone and is certainly a must-visit destination in Copenhagen. 

Planning your next trip? Check out our hotels in Copenhagen for the best accommodation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Tivoli mean in Danish?

"Tivoli" is a reference derived from the same French word which means “a type of garden”. And it receives its name from the beautiful gardens of the Italian city of Tivoli, known as Hadrian's Villa and Villa d'Este, considered one of the most beautiful of the Renaissance worldwide.

What is special about Tivoli Gardens?

Tivoli Gardens is special because it’s one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, combining rich history, cultural heritage, stunning design, and exciting rides. It’s not just a theme park, but an experience that blends entertainment with art, nature, and history.

Do I need to buy tickets to Tivoli Gardens in advance?

It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance on the website, especially in the summer, which is high season, to avoid long lines and be able to enter without problems.