Summer has officially begun. Here are my recommendations for things to do in Copenhagen this June.

This issue of Copenhagen Unfolded is written by Emilie, who is assistant at VisitCopenhagen. Emilie is studying a bachelor's degree in communication and will be finishing her exams at the beginning of June – of course, she wants to celebrate this with all the best that Copenhagen has to offer this June.

Can you feel it? Summer is finally arriving. As a student, June marks the start of my summer break from university, so I’ve planned a month full of great experiences that, for me, captures the feeling of summer, sunshine, and joyful days. This June, I’ll be going to a cycling celebration, enjoying delicious Tuscan food, and relaxing in the sun. Read along, get inspired, and enjoy the first month of summer in Copenhagen. Here’s what’s on the program: 

• Pedal power and community celebration
• A taste of Tuscany in Nørrebro
• Green retreats in the Botanical Garden
• June's favourites

If you can't get enough of our recommendations for Copenhagen, you can always check out our Instagram or visitcopenhagen.com

Honestly, I have to admit that bike racing used to mean a good nap on the couch for me — until I experienced the Tour de France in Copenhagen in the summer of 2022. Since then, I've been hooked! So of course, I'm going to watch the Copenhagen Sprint bike race.

Photo: CPH Sprint

On June 21 and 22, Copenhagen will transform into one big cycling celebration as Copenhagen Sprint takes over the streets. It’s the first time the city is hosting the event – and what better place than the cycling capital of the world? You’ll get to see top riders test their form ahead of Tour de France. Along the route, there will also be music, food, and a festive atmosphere, making it a blast for both die-hard cycling fans and those, who - like me - mostly show up to soak up the summer vibes and positive energy.

Not sold on the idea of Copenhagen Sprint? Don’t worry – the route is also a great way to experience the city, with or without the race. We’ve put together a guide with must-see spots along the way. So hop on your bike (no need to sprint here) and enjoy the city.

Since we're on the topic of cycling, I can't help but recommend the restaurant Graziano, located on Møllegade, which serves rustic dishes from the hills of Tuscany.

Photo: Kasper Kristoffersen

You might think: What does that have to do with cycling? Well, Graziano has a very special connection to the world of professional cycling. The restaurant is named after owner Jonathan Sørensen’s Italian grandfather – the same grandfather who took care of Jonathan’s father, Rolf Sørensen, when he moved to Italy as a young man to pursue a career in professional cycling. Years later, Jonathan himself moved in with his grandfather and was introduced to the Tuscan kitchen, which today forms the foundation of the restaurant’s menu. This strong family story shines through and, in my opinion, creates the perfect setting for warmth and togetherness.

After a stressful exam period, it’s very important for me to unwind. I do that best in nature with a podcast in my ears and knitting in my hands. The Botanical Garden has become a regular spot for me, and it's by the way located along the CPH Sprint route – an oasis in the heart of the city that invites to calmness and reflection.

Photo: Mellanie Gandø

When I visit the Botanical Gardens, I like to bring a blanket, buy a delicious iced coffee from the outdoor café, and settle down on the grass. I can easily spend several hours there – especially in the summer months when the sun's rays make it difficult to break free. Don't forget the sunscreen!

If you start to feel a bit restless and need a break from the sun, I recommend visiting the Butterfly House, which is also located in the Botanical Garden. I’m practicing recognizing and naming butterflies, and the Butterfly House is the perfect place to be challenged. It houses all kinds of exotic species, each more stunning than the last.

CPH Sprint isn’t the only street festival this month. Mark your calendars for June 4-6, when Copenhagen’s biggest street party, Distortion, kicks off in full force. If you prefer a more relaxed city vibe, then explore the Copenhagen Photo Festival, where the city is transformed into an outdoor gallery with stunning photography.

The Midsummer Celebration is also in June. In Copenhagen, you can celebrate on June 23 at places like Frederiksberg Gardens, Reffen, Tivoli – or find your own favorite midsummer event in the city. There are so many options!

I’m more than ready to welcome the first summer month of the year, and I hope you are too. I also hope my plans can inspire you to have an amazing June in Copenhagen.

But remember, these are just my recommendations. At the editorial office, we're just as interested in hearing yours, so please let us know if there's anything you feel thatr we've missed.

We’ll be back in a month with much more on all the best of Copenhagen. 

Copenhagen Unfolded is published by VisitCopenhagen. Our goal is to tell the world about Copenhagen and the great experiences that are to be had here. This issue of Copenhagen Unfolded is put together by Kasper Syhler, Christina Daubjerg Newman, Emil Kristensen, Andrea Lundgaard & Emilie Bødker.

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