Here is our top 12 best photo locations for outdoor photoshoot in Copenhagen. There are public locations so is not asked for any tax or special permission.
Our top 12 most instagrammable photo spots for outdoor portraits in Copenhagen
The locations are suitable for portraits, engagement, wedding, family or pregnancy photo sessions. All the below pictures are taken by us (©Cristian Mihaila Photography).
1. Nyhavn – Copenhagen’s Most Iconic and Photogenic Spot
If there’s one place that perfectly captures the essence of Copenhagen, it’s Nyhavn—the city’s iconic waterfront district. Nyhavn is famous for its vibrant, colorful buildings that line the canal, creating a picturesque setting. Historic wooden yachts gently bob on the water, adding to the area’s charm. This lively, tourist-friendly atmosphere makes Nyhavn one of the most popular attractions in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Whether you’re visiting Nyhavn as a couple, with family, or solo, this scenic spot is a must-see. It’s especially popular for those wanting to capture beautiful photos and lasting memories. From a photographer’s perspective, Nyhavn offers endless opportunities for stunning shots. The picturesque architecture, sparkling reflections on the water, and dynamic street life combine to create perfect photo conditions.
Tip: Keep in mind that Nyhavn is one of the busiest areas in Copenhagen. Weekends and peak tourist seasons bring the largest crowds. To enjoy a quieter and more relaxed photoshoot, plan your visit during early mornings or weekdays. Here’s a pro tip: look for unique angles, cozy corners, and textured walls. These features help highlight your subject while minimizing background crowds—ideal for portrait photography in Nyhavn.
2. Nyboder – A Piece of Living History
Nyboder, located just steps from Copenhagen’s city center, is one of the city’s most historic and distinctive neighborhoods. Built in the 1600s by King Christian IV to house the Royal Danish Navy, Nyboder is famous for its iconic yellow row houses, which are instantly recognizable and rich in Danish history.
What makes Nyboder a top photo spot in Copenhagen isn’t only its uniform mustard-yellow facades but also the peaceful, almost cinematic atmosphere of its quiet streets. This neighborhood offers a timeless charm where history and modern life blend effortlessly.
The best time to photograph Nyboder is during the early morning or late afternoon when soft natural light creates warm, golden hues on the yellow walls. The contrast between the historic architecture and occasional modern details—like bicycles or updated shutters—adds depth and visual interest to your photos.
Tip: Explore the smaller side streets in Nyboder to discover unique, less photographed angles and beautifully preserved architectural details. Since Nyboder is still a residential area, it’s important to be respectful and keep your photography low-key.
3. Amalienborg & Marmorkirken – Royal Elegance and Architectural Drama
For a true taste of Copenhagen’s royal charm, visit Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family. Amalienborg Square is surrounded by four identical rococo palaces. The equestrian statue of King Frederick V anchors the square’s center. This statue is a popular subject for wide-angle and architectural photography.
A short walk from Amalienborg is Marmorkirken (The Marble Church), famous for its massive green copper dome. The dome is one of the largest in Scandinavia. Marmorkirken’s dramatic neoclassical façade makes it a standout landmark for photographers. A classic photo opportunity is the view down Frederiksgade, aligning the church with Amalienborg Palace.
Tip: Capture Marmorkirken from across Amalienborg Square during golden hour for soft, warm light on the dome. This area can get busy, so visit early mornings for peaceful portraits and clean, crowd-free shots.
4. Esplanaden
For photographers, Esplanaden offers a beautiful setting for street photography, lifestyle portraits, and architectural shots. The long, straight boulevard provides strong leading lines, while the surrounding buildings add texture and sophistication to any composition. Its close proximity to Kastellet, Amalienborg, and the waterfront makes it an easy and worthwhile stop during any photo walk in Copenhagen.
Tip: Visit during early morning or golden hour for soft, directional light and fewer pedestrians. The tree-lined sidewalks are especially stunning in spring and autumn when nature adds an extra splash of color.
5. Christiansborg Palace – Grand Views and Hidden Corners
Christiansborg Palace, on the island of Slotsholmen, is one of Copenhagen’s most historic and visually striking landmarks. It houses the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Royal Reception Rooms. This palace shows where politics and royalty intertwine, reflected in its grand architecture.
Photographers will enjoy many angles here. The dramatic façade, tall tower—the tallest in Copenhagen—and sweeping courtyards provide great photo opportunities. The tower is free to visit and offers panoramic city views. It’s perfect for skyline photography, especially at sunset.
Tip: Don’t miss the inner courtyard and nearby Royal Stables. These areas are quieter and full of old-world charm. For moody, cinematic photos, visit on cloudy days when the palace’s dark stone contrasts with the sky.
6. Marble Bridge (Marmorbroen) A Classic Bridge with Regal Backdrop
Just next to Christiansborg Palace is Marmorbroen (The Marble Bridge), one of Copenhagen’s most elegant, photogenic bridges. Built in the 18th century, this baroque stone bridge spans the palace canal. It was originally used by royalty to access Christiansborg in carriages.
From a photography viewpoint, Marmorbroen is a true gem. Carved stone balustrades, ornate lanterns, and reflections in the water create a romantic, timeless scene. It’s also one of the best spots to capture majestic views of Christiansborg Palace. Sunrise and golden hour offer soft light that dances on the water beautifully.
Tip: Stand across the canal near Børsgade for wide-angle shots of the bridge and palace together. Or get low by the waterline to capture reflections and symmetry. Marmorbroen is usually less crowded than other attractions, perfect for peaceful, thoughtful photos.
7. Kalvebod Brygge
Kalvebod Brygge is a modern waterfront area in Copenhagen known for its sleek architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and scenic harbor views. Located along the city’s harborfront, Kalvebod Brygge offers a perfect blend of urban life and natural beauty. This bustling promenade features contemporary office buildings, stylish restaurants, and inviting public spaces, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Photographers will appreciate Kalvebod Brygge for its dynamic mix of reflections on the water, striking modern designs, and the backdrop of passing boats and city skylines. Sunset here casts a warm glow over the harbor, creating stunning photo opportunities. Whether you want candid street shots or dramatic waterfront panoramas, Kalvebod Brygge is a versatile location worth exploring.
Tip: Walk along the waterfront promenade to capture a variety of angles. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best natural light and fewer crowds.
8. Gammel Strand – Old Copenhagen with Colorful Charm
Gammel Strand, meaning “Old Beach,” is one of the oldest and most atmospheric neighborhoods in Copenhagen, Denmark. This historic waterfront street was once a bustling fish market and now features a colorful mix of charming 18th-century buildings, cozy cafés, and picturesque canalside views. Gammel Strand’s vibrant yet timeless atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Copenhagen.
From a photography perspective, Gammel Strand is an ideal location to capture the authentic essence of old Copenhagen. The row of pastel-colored buildings lining the canal creates a striking backdrop, especially when their reflections shimmer in the water. Nearby bridges provide excellent vantage points for wide landscape shots, while the combination of boats, reflections, and historic architecture adds visual interest and variety to any photo collection.
For the best photos, visit Gammel Strand early in the morning when the soft natural light creates a warm glow and crowds are minimal. Alternatively, the blue hour offers stunning contrasts between the warm building lights and the cool tones of the canal. For portrait photography, use the stone steps and railings near the water to create natural, elegant framing.
9. Kartoffelrækkerne – Quiet Charm in the Heart of Copenhagen
Kartoffelrækkerne, which translates to “The Potato Rows,” is one of the best examples of traditional Danish row houses found throughout Denmark. Walking through Kartoffelrækkerne feels like stepping into a quaint village within Copenhagen. It’s highly recommended to spend at least an hour exploring these charming streets.
Located just behind the bustling Østerbro neighborhood, this quiet residential area offers a peaceful contrast to the busy city center. With its charming 19th-century brick houses, vine-covered facades, and cobblestone lanes, Kartoffelrækkerne is a hidden gem for photographers and travelers alike. The area is particularly beautiful during early mornings or late afternoons, when soft natural light highlights the rich textures and warm colors of the historic buildings.
What makes Kartoffelrækkerne unique is its authentic, lived-in atmosphere. It’s ideal for capturing candid shots, lifestyle portraits, and the contrast between historic architecture and everyday urban life. Detail-oriented photographers will appreciate quirky doorways, bikes resting against ivy-covered walls, and meticulously maintained gardens throughout the neighborhood.
Tip: Remember that Kartoffelrækkerne is a residential area, so be respectful when photographing. Keep noise and equipment to a minimum, and avoid shooting directly into people’s homes.
10. Kildevældsgade – A Peaceful Alternative to the City Center
Kildevældsgade, located on the outskirts of Østerbro in Copenhagen, showcases charming Danish architecture similar to the famous Kartoffelrækkerne neighborhood. This street features classic rows of historic Danish houses that reflect rich character and history. What makes Kildevældsgade unique is its spacious layout, with wider streets and more open areas compared to the denser residential neighborhoods near The Lakes in Copenhagen.
Kildevældsgade is also a quieter, less crowded area, perfect for peaceful walks and relaxed photo sessions. If you’re searching for authentic Copenhagen charm with more space and fewer tourists, Kildevældsgade is an excellent spot to explore and capture beautiful photographs.
11. The Lakes (Søerne) – Tranquil Views in the Heart of Copenhagen
The Lakes, or Søerne in Danish, are a series of three interconnected lakes that form a peaceful, scenic stretch through central Copenhagen. Popular with locals for jogging, walking, and relaxing, the lakes offer a refreshing break from the urban bustle—while still being just minutes from key neighborhoods like Nørrebro, Østerbro, and the city center.
From a photography perspective, The Lakes are ideal for capturing reflections, nature, and city life all in one frame. The calm water creates perfect mirror-like surfaces, especially in the early morning or during golden hour. The long walking paths, historic bridges, and tree-lined banks provide beautiful compositions for both wide shots and intimate lifestyle portraits.
Tip: For the best photos, visit during sunrise when the water is still, the light is soft, and the crowds are minimal. Autumn and spring are especially photogenic, with colorful foliage and blooming trees along the shores.
12. Olufsvej – A Colorful Hidden Gem in Østerbro
Olufsvej is a charming, cobblestone street tucked away in the Østerbro district of Copenhagen, and it’s one of the city’s most picturesque hidden gems. Known for its colorful, Mediterranean-style row houses, Olufsvej offers a vibrant contrast to the more traditional Danish architecture found elsewhere in the city.
This quiet residential street is a favorite among photographers and Instagrammers thanks to its pastel-colored facades, unique doors, and cozy, village-like atmosphere. Whether you’re shooting portraits or architectural details, Olufsvej provides a perfect backdrop full of charm and character.
Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the soft light enhances the street’s colors. Since it’s a residential area, remember to be respectful and discreet when photographing.
If you’re exploring photo spots in Copenhagen, don’t miss Olufsvej—it’s one of the most colorful and serene streets in the city.
Copenhagen is a treasure trove of stunning photo locations—from the colorful streets of Kartoffelrækkerne to Amalienborg’s royal elegance and Kildevældsgade’s serene charm. Whether visiting for the first time or capturing new memories, these spots offer endless opportunities for authentic photography. If you’re inspired to create lasting memories with a professional outdoor photoshoot in Copenhagen, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Reach out today, and let’s capture your story against this incredible city’s backdrop.
