Bakken

Welcome to Bakken (Dyrehavsbakken) — the world's oldest operating amusement park, located near Copenhagen, in Denmark. Founded back in 1583, it remains one of the country's most beloved attractions today, drawing millions of visitors annually. The uniqueness of this place lies in the fact that entry to the park is completely free, allowing everyone to immerse themselves in its incomparable atmosphere.

The park is set within the picturesque Dyrehaven forest reserve, also known as the Royal Deer Park. This wonderful setting allows guests to not only enjoy the rides but also stroll through the forest where thousands of deer roam freely, creating a truly fairytale environment. Originally, it was the discovery of a healing spring in this forest that attracted people, followed by street performers and vendors who laid the foundation for the future park.

Despite its venerable age, Bakken is a modern entertainment complex that carefully preserves its historical heritage. Its main highlight is the harmonious blend of new attractions and old-world charm: the park's design is inspired by the 16th century, and the entertainment includes both modern roller coasters and vintage carousels. One of the park's gems is the "Rutschebanen" wooden roller coaster, which has been in operation since 1932.

To plan your visit to the Bakken amusement park and check details such as opening hours, attraction ticket prices, or information about special events, it is recommended to consult official sources. Below are the park's main contact details.

At Bakken, every visitor will find something they enjoy, as the park is home to more than 150 diverse attractions. Fans of the classics can enjoy vintage carousels, while thrill-seekers can test their limits on modern extreme coasters. Families with children will appreciate the numerous play areas and family-friendly rides that offer plenty of excitement. Additionally, the park is dotted with arcade games, music bars, and many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can relax and grab a bite.

Beyond the rides, Bakken is famous for its unique entertainment programs. Be sure to visit the Bakkens Hvile music hall — the world's only "Danish Cabaret," with a history spanning over 170 years, featuring vibrant and colorful shows. The park also hosts the largest circus revue in Denmark, with performances that appeal to both adults and children. For the youngest guests, the famous character Pierrot performs several times a day for free, entertaining them with fun routines.

Seasonal events also create a special atmosphere in the park. For example, every summer Bakken hosts the annual World Santa Claus Congress, attracting guests from all over the globe. This unusual and fun event turns the park into a true fairytale and leaves unforgettable impressions. Regardless of the time of year, visiting Bakken is an opportunity not just to enjoy the rides, but to be part of a unique celebration of life.

Bakken amusement park is conveniently located just 10–15 kilometers north of central Copenhagen, in the picturesque Klampenborg district. Getting there is very easy, and the most convenient way is by public transport. The S-tog train (Line C) departs regularly from Copenhagen Central Station and will take you to Klampenborg Station. The walk from the station to the park entrance takes only a few minutes and is a pleasant stroll, as it passes through the famous Royal Deer Park.

For those who prefer other types of transport, Bakken can also be reached by bus or taxi. If you are traveling by car, convenient parking spaces are provided near the park, making the trip as comfortable as possible. It is worth remembering that entry to the park itself is free — you only pay for the rides, so you can easily come here just for a walk to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the world's oldest amusement park.

The history of Bakken is a journey back through the centuries, beginning as far back as 1583. It all started with a completely accidental discovery: a natural spring with healing waters was found in the forest. This event attracted many people seeking healing and relaxation, and they were followed by street performers, vendors, and magicians who put on shows for the gathered crowds. Thus, thanks to the spring, this location became a popular recreation area for the residents of Copenhagen.

Over time, these spontaneous fairs and performances began to take a more organized form. Gradually, the first rides and entertainment pavilions began to appear on the site of the future park. For several centuries, Bakken has continuously developed and expanded, transforming from a simple site for folk festivities into the full-fledged amusement park we know today. This makes it not just old, but the oldest operating amusement park in the world.

One of the most remarkable facts about Bakken is its dedication to its own heritage. To this day, the park's owners strive to maintain the spirit of the 16th century, which is reflected in the historic design of many rides and buildings. In this way, visiting the park becomes not just entertainment, but a true immersion into the history of Denmark. This unique combination of old-world charm and modern technology makes Bakken not only a historical monument but also a wonderful place for family leisure.

To fully enjoy a visit to Bakken, it is recommended to set aside at least 4–6 hours. This will be enough time not only to ride several iconic attractions but also to catch one of the shows and enjoy a relaxed meal at one of the many restaurants. This time buffer will allow you to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the world's oldest amusement park without rushing.

If you are traveling with children or are a true amusement park enthusiast, you can easily spend an entire day at Bakken. The wide variety of rides, play areas, shows, and scenic spots make it ideal for a long stay. On the other hand, since entry to the grounds is free, you can also drop by for just a couple of hours to take a stroll, feel the historical spirit of the place, and perhaps ride the legendary 1932 wooden roller coaster.

The Bakken amusement park is a seasonal attraction, so it is important to check the current schedule before your visit. Generally, the park is open to visitors from late March to late August. During this period, it operates daily, usually opening at 12:00 and closing around 22:00, and on certain days until midnight. It is worth keeping in mind that working hours may vary depending on the day of the week, holidays, and special events.

Entry to the park grounds is free, while tickets for the rides are purchased separately. No advance booking is required for entry, but attraction tickets or unlimited ride wristbands can be bought online in advance to save time. Since opening hours and days can vary, it is strongly recommended to check the latest information on the official website of Bakken Park just before your planned trip. You can also find details on the website about seasonal events, such as autumn or Christmas markets, during which the park may be open outside the main summer season.

Visiting Bakken is an exciting event in its own right, but its prime location north of Copenhagen opens up excellent opportunities for deeper exploration of the region. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to combine the fun of the rides with visits to other iconic sites, enriching your travel itinerary and making it even more fulfilling.

Just a few kilometers from the park, you will find picturesque beaches, interesting museums, and unique architectural landmarks. This makes it easy to plan a combined one-day route: for example, spending the morning in the fresh sea air and dedicating the second half of the day to the entertainment at Bakken. Below is a list of nearby attractions with their distance from the park.