Is Tivoli Gardens worth visiting? Absolutely. This iconic park in the heart of Copenhagen offers a unique blend of amusement and history. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and live entertainment. The park’s charming atmosphere appeals to all ages. Tivoli Gardens also features excellent dining options, making it a great spot for a day out. Seasonal events, such as Christmas markets and Halloween celebrations, add to its allure. The park’s historical significance and timeless charm make it a must-visit destination in Copenhagen.
History of Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens, located in the heart of Copenhagen, is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, opening its gates on August 15, 1843. Georg Carstensen, a Danish army officer, founded Tivoli, inspired by parks and gardens in Europe and the Middle East. He convinced King Christian VIII by famously stating, “When the people are amusing themselves, they do not think about politics.” Since then, Tivoli has grown into a beloved landmark, attracting visitors from all over the world with its unique blend of traditional charm and modern attractions.
Interesting Facts About Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is not just an amusement park; it’s a cultural treasure. Walt Disney visited Tivoli in 1951 and found inspiration for Disneyland. The park features the world’s oldest wooden roller coaster, Rutschebanen, which has been thrilling visitors since 1914. Tivoli also transforms with the seasons, hosting themed events like Halloween and Christmas, adding a magical touch to the already enchanting atmosphere. Additionally, the park’s beautiful gardens and architectural styles reflect influences from China, Japan, and Moorish designs, creating a unique and picturesque setting.
Our experience : Is Tivoli Gardens worth visiting?
We were on a girls’ trip to Copenhagen in early spring, April. We had mixed opinions about whether to visit Tivoli Gardens. We were short on time and didn’t know if Tivoli Gardens was worth our time. We compromised and decided to get entrance tickets, skip the rides, and just walk around the park, have dinner, and see the lights in the evening. This plan worked great for us.
After a day in the city, we arrived at Tivoli Gardens around 6 pm. We walked around the park, looking at the attractions and flowers. Tulips were in bloom, making the park look like a fairy tale. We had dinner at Mikkeller Færgekroen, a traditional Danish pub. The chocolate stout I had was fantastic. After dinner, we spent some time looking at the lights. The park feels very different at night. If you have time to stay until it gets dark to see the lights, definitely do it.
So, is Tivoli Gardens worth visiting? Yes, of course. However, I don’t think it’s worth a full day of your time. Visiting in the afternoon, staying for several hours, doing rides if that’s your thing, or just walking around is the best way to experience this park.
Tivoli Gardens Tickets
How to choose the best ticket
Choosing the right ticket for Tivoli Gardens depends on your interests and how much time you plan to spend there. The Standard Entrance Ticket grants access to the gardens, rides, concerts, and events but does not include ride tickets. If you plan to enjoy the rides, the Unlimited Ride Ticket might be a better option. This ticket allows unlimited access to all the rides for the day. There are also options for a Combination Ticket, which includes both entrance and unlimited rides, offering convenience and savings for a full day of fun.
How to Save on Tickets
To save on tickets, consider purchasing them online in advance. Tivoli often offers discounts on their website. Look out for special deals and packages, especially during off-peak seasons. Another way to save is by visiting during weekdays when ticket prices are generally lower. If you plan to visit multiple times, consider getting a Tivoli Pass, which provides unlimited entrance for an entire year and can be a cost-effective choice for frequent visitors.
Where to Eat in Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens boasts a diverse range of dining options, catering to various tastes and budgets. For a fine dining experience, visit Nimb Brasserie, which offers a blend of French and Danish cuisine in an elegant setting. Grøften, one of Tivoli’s oldest restaurants, serves traditional Danish dishes in a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. For those looking for something more casual, Tivoli Food Hall offers a variety of international street food, from burgers and tacos to sushi and falafel. Additionally, the charming little cafes scattered around the park provide delightful spots to enjoy a coffee and pastry while soaking in the scenic views.
Best Time to Visit Tivoli Gardens
The best time to visit Tivoli Gardens is during the warmer months, from May to September, when the gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasant. This period also coincides with the park’s summer season, featuring an extensive lineup of concerts, performances, and special events.
However, Tivoli is also enchanting during the Halloween and Christmas seasons, when it transforms into a festive wonderland with themed decorations and activities.
Best Time of the Day to Visit
To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning when the park opens to avoid long lines and crowds. This allows you to enjoy the rides and attractions with minimal wait times. Alternatively, visiting in the late afternoon and staying until evening can be equally magical, as the park lights up with thousands of fairy lights, creating a whimsical atmosphere. That’s exactly what we did and we loved it. The evening hours also offer the chance to catch the live entertainment and fireworks displays that Tivoli is famous for.
How Much Time to Spend in Tivoli Gardens: Half-Day Plan
Half a day is enough to experience the magic of Tivoli Gardens. Here’s a plan to make the most of your visit.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
1:00 PM – Arrive at Tivoli Gardens
- Enter the park and get a map.
- Take a few moments to orient yourself and plan your route.
1:30 PM – Rides and Attractions
- The Roller Coaster: Start with this classic wooden roller coaster. It’s one of the oldest in the world and offers a thrilling yet nostalgic experience.
- The Star Flyer: Enjoy a ride on this high swing, which offers panoramic views of Copenhagen.
- The Demon: For an adrenaline rush, try this intense roller coaster with loops and twists.
- The Flying Trunk: This family-friendly ride takes you through scenes from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales.
3:00 PM – Gardens and Relaxation
- Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens. Take your time to admire the seasonal flowers and tranquil ponds.
- Visit Tivoli Lake and relax by the water. The serene environment is perfect for a break and some photos.
4:00 PM – Coffee Break
- Stop at one of the park’s charming cafés for coffee and snacks. Café Vilhelmsborg and Cakenhagen are good choices.
- Enjoy some people-watching and soak in the park’s atmosphere from your café seat.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
5:00 PM – More Rides and Exploration
- The Golden Tower: This drop tower offers a thrilling free-fall experience with great views of the city before the drop.
- Aquarium: Explore the underwater world at Tivoli’s aquarium, which houses a variety of marine life.
- The Vintage Cars: Take a leisurely drive in vintage cars, a fun and nostalgic ride suitable for all ages.
6:30 PM – Dinner
- Dine at Mikkeller Færgekroen, a traditional Danish pub located within Tivoli Gardens. The pub offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious local dishes.
- Try their renowned chocolate stout, and enjoy traditional Danish cuisine like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) or frikadeller (Danish meatballs).
8:00 PM – Evening Lights and Shows
- As the sun sets, the park transforms with thousands of twinkling lights. Walk around to see the gardens and rides illuminated.
- If available, watch the evening show or concert. Tivoli often hosts live music, theater performances, and light shows, which add to the magical ambiance.
9:00 PM – Departure
- After a delightful visit, head back to your accommodation. The memories of the lights, rides, and charming atmosphere will stay with you.
List of Best Rides
- The Roller Coaster: Classic wooden roller coaster offering a nostalgic thrill.
- The Star Flyer: High swing ride providing panoramic views of Copenhagen.
- The Demon: Intense roller coaster with loops and twists for adrenaline junkies.
- The Flying Trunk: Family-friendly ride through scenes from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales.
- The Golden Tower: Drop tower that gives a thrilling free-fall experience.
- The Vintage Cars: Nostalgic car ride that is fun for all ages.
