Situated in the heart of the city, this beautiful botanical garden is a haven of tranquillity and home to the country’s largest collection of plant species. At its centre is a series of greenhouses dating back to the 19th century that showcase plants from all over the world.
The 10-hectare gardens were first established in 1870 and are run by the University of Copenhagen. They are also an active research facility and are part of the National History Museum of Denmark because of their historical and botanical significance. The gardens are a great place to come and spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Follow the labelled pathways that wind their way through the gardens and you will notice that each section organised according to plant type, with plant names displayed both in Latin and Danish.
In the Danish Garden section, there are examples of over 900 indigenous species including fir trees and of course Denmark’s national flower, the Marguerite Daisy. Other sections display perennials and annuals as well as a magnificent collection of rhododendrons.
The jewel of this attraction however has to be the large greenhouses, which are still the centrepiece here. There are plants from all over the world here including a selection of Arctic plants kept cold in an air conditioned area whilst heated greenhouses boast a fine selection of cacti, orchids and succulents.
There is also a large collection of dried fauna comprising an impressive 2 million specimens, which are used by researchers in the botanical museum.
If you are looking for a bite to eat, there is café on site, and for souvenirs, there is a gift shop selling a variety of items including seed packs. Situated in the heart of the city, the Copenhagen Botanical Gardens are easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. The Norreport Metro station is just a five minute walk away from the garden’s main entrance on Gothersgade. Open daily from May to September, the gardens are closed on Mondays during the winter months. Admission is free.
