Copenhagen: World Capital of Architecture

What is all the hype around Danish Architecture about? Why has Copenhagen been designated as the World Capital of Architecture 2023-2026? And what values and ideas lie behind the facades and surfaces of the buildings and urban spaces that make up one of the world’s most liveable cities? 

As part of our in-house exhibition ‘So Danish!’, which unfolds the history of Danish architecture from its humble beginnings to its present day stature, this city tour illustrates developments in Danish architecture since the 19th century. Together, we investigate and explore how historical events and establishment of the Danish welfare society have influenced the architecture of Copenhagen. 

The Danish society is built on a high degree of trust, equality and solidarity. This is also reflected in Danish architecture – housing, public institutions, infrastructure and urban spaces are all influenced by this trinity. 

Join us on this guided tour and get to know Copenhagen: The World Capital of Architecture 

Highlights of the tour:

• Christiansborg, the historical castle and seat of the Danish parliament 
• The iconic Danish National Bank designed by Arne Jacobsen 
• Copenhagen’s new Water Culture House on the Paper Island designed by Japanese star architect Kengo Kuma
• Unfolding the importance of world-renowned urban planning pioneer and architect Jan Gehl 
• The award-winning Krøyers Plads housing blocks along the harbor front designed by Cobe Architects 
• The elegant and innovative Circle Bridge designed by Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson 

(Please note: the tour doesn’t include entrances to the buildings/sites listed above) 

Practical info

• Starting point: Danish Architecture Center (DAC), Welcome desk at level -2, Bryghuspladsen 10, 1473 Copenhagen. 
• Finishing point: Danish Architecture Center. 
• The tour route is around 5 kilometers. 
• Please check in with your guide 10 minutes before the tour starts. 
• If you arrive prior to the start of the tour, remember that all tour tickets include free admission to DAC on the day of the tour. 
• The tour guide is a trained DAC guide. 
• English speaking guide. 
• Children under 18 have free admission but must book a ticket. Max. 2 children per adult. 
• Bring your umbrella or sun hat – the tour will go ahead, rain or shine. 
• DAC invites everyone to experience the city. The tour is planned with accessibility in mind. 

This tour can also be booked as a private group tour on a date to suit you. 

For more information about private group tours, please reach out to us at booking@dac.dk.

Photo: Thomas Rousing