The Round Tower

The Round Tower, or Rundetårn, is one of the most recognizable and iconic symbols of Copenhagen, located in the very heart of the old city. This 17th-century historical observatory, part of the Holy Trinity Church architectural complex, attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique design and rich history. Built by order of King Christian IV, the tower remains today one of the oldest functioning astronomical structures in Europe.

The main feature that distinguishes the Round Tower from any other is its famous spiral ramp. Instead of a traditional staircase, a 209-meter-long wide cobbled corridor leads to the top, winding seven and a half times around the tower's core. This design was created to allow carriages with heavy astronomical equipment to be driven up. Today, this gentle slope makes the climb to the observation deck an easy and pleasant adventure for all ages.

After ascending to a height of 34.8 meters, you will find yourself on an open observation deck, offering magnificent panoramic views of the red roofs, spires, and streets of Copenhagen. In addition to the observatory, which is still used by amateur astronomers, the tower houses a spacious exhibition hall where the university library was once located. Art exhibitions and cultural events are regularly held here. A visit to the Round Tower is a wonderful opportunity not only to admire the capital of Denmark from above but also to touch its amazing history.

For the most up-to-date information regarding opening hours, ticket prices, and current exhibitions, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Round Tower. The main contact details are provided below.

The Round Tower is not just an observation deck, but a whole range of experiences. Here are a few ideas for things to do during your visit to make it unforgettable:

• Take a unique climb up the spiral ramp. Forget about steps—a wide, 209-meter gentle incline will lead you to the top. This makes the way up an easy and exciting adventure for visitors of all ages.
• Take panoramic photos of Copenhagen. The observation deck at the top offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city's historical center, its spires, and red-tiled roofs—the perfect spot for memorable shots.
• Visit an exhibition in the Library Hall. Halfway to the top is a spacious hall that formerly housed the university library. Today, it regularly hosts temporary art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events—it's worth checking the schedule before your visit.
• Look through a telescope in Europe's oldest observatory. On certain evenings, visitors have the unique opportunity to observe the stars and planets through a powerful telescope. Be sure to check the public session schedule on the tower's official website, as they are not held every day.
• Experience a thrill on the glass floor. At 25 meters above the ground, there is a platform made of strong glass through which you can look directly into the tower's hollow core. It’s a great chance to test your courage and take an unusual photo.

The Round Tower boasts an excellent location in the heart of Copenhagen at Købmagergade 52A, making it highly accessible for all travelers. Thanks to this central position, the landmark is an easy and pleasant walk from the main tourist streets, such as the Strøget pedestrian zone and the squares of the old town. Such a stroll is a great way to better experience the atmosphere of the capital of Denmark.

If you prefer to use public transport, reaching the tower is quite simple. The nearest metro stations are Nørreport and Kongens Nytorv, which serve several lines. From both stations, the tower is just a 5–10 minute walk away. Additionally, many city buses stop in the area, so you can easily find a route that suits you.

The Danish capital is famous for its well-developed cycling infrastructure, and many locals and tourists choose this mode of transport to get around the city. Cycling to the Round Tower is a wonderful opportunity to feel like a local. For those traveling by car, there are paid parking lots nearby. However, it is worth remembering that due to its location in the busy center, it is most convenient and easiest to reach the tower on foot or by public transport.

The history of the Round Tower is inextricably linked with the ambitions of the builder-king Christian IV, who sought to strengthen the scientific prestige of Denmark. Construction began in 1637 and was completed in 1642, with the project overseen by architect Hans van Steenwinckel the Younger. The tower was designed as part of the large Trinity complex for the university and became the country's first specialized observatory, as well as one of the oldest in Europe. Its unique design, featuring a spiral ramp instead of stairs, was created so that heavy and fragile astronomical equipment could be transported to the top by horse-drawn carriages.

Since its opening, the Round Tower has been a center for astronomical science in Copenhagen. In the 17th and 18th centuries, prominent scientists worked within its walls, including Ole Rømer, who was the first in history to measure the speed of light here, and Peder Horrebow. These discoveries forever inscribed the tower in the annals of world science. Although the observatory is now used primarily by amateur astronomers, its scientific legacy lives on, serving as a reminder of the golden age of Danish astronomy.

In addition to its scientific significance, the Round Tower has inspired many legends and become part of the country's cultural life. The most famous historical anecdote involves the visit of the Russian Tsar Peter the Great in 1716, who, legend has it, rode to the top on horseback. However, the tower achieved true nationwide fame thanks to the great storyteller Hans Christian Andersen. In his famous fairy tale "The Tinderbox," the most terrifying dog had eyes "as large as the Round Tower," forever making this structure a symbol of something vast and impressive in Danish folklore.

When planning a visit to the Round Tower, you should expect that a full tour will take an average of 1 to 2 hours. This is quite enough time to walk up the famous spiral ramp without rushing, enjoy the panoramic views from the observation deck, and explore the tower's interior spaces. A visit does not require a significant time investment, making it easy to include in any tourist itinerary through Copenhagen, no matter how busy.

The total time is usually divided among several key activities. The ascent to the top at a relaxed pace takes about 15–20 minutes and is an adventure in itself. Visitors typically spend 20 to 30 minutes on the observation deck photographing the cityscapes. The remaining time can be dedicated to viewing the exhibition hall, which often hosts interesting displays, or stepping onto the glass floor. If your visit coincides with the observatory's evening hours, it is worth setting aside extra time for stargazing, which will make the experience even more unique.

The Round Tower is open to visitors year-round, though opening hours vary by season. During the summer period (April to September), the tower is usually open daily from 10:00 to 20:00. In the winter season (October to March), standard hours are from 10:00 to 18:00, but on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the tower remains open later until 21:00, allowing for visits to the observatory after dark. As schedules can change, especially during holidays, it is highly recommended to check the latest information on the official website before your visit.

As a rule, advance ticket booking is not required for standard daytime visits; they can be purchased directly on-site. However, queues are possible during peak hours. If you plan to attend a special event or visit with a large group, it is worth checking the terms and booking options on the official website in advance to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.

A visit to the Round Tower offers a wonderful opportunity to explore other gems of Copenhagen's historical center. Due to its central location, many iconic sites, museums, and cozy corners of the city are just a few minutes' walk away. A walk through the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the capital of Denmark and make your trip even more fulfilling.

Exploring the nearby attractions will enrich your experience by showing the full diversity of the Danish capital. Just around the corner from the ancient observatory, you will find royal palaces, lush gardens, lively squares, and interesting venues. Below is a list of places located very close to the Round Tower that are definitely worth adding to your itinerary.