Harbour swimming in Copenhagen is a true local tradition — not just a summer trend, but something Danes enjoy all year round.
Yes, even in winter.
Copenhagen is one of the few cities in the world where the harbour is clean enough to swim in every day of the year. And locals absolutely do.
💧 Why do Danes love harbour swimming?
Whether it’s warm or icy cold, Copenhageners head for the water because it:
- Boosts energy and mood
- Connects them with nature
- Feels refreshing, pure and grounding
- Is 100% free, safe and close to home
You don’t have to be hardcore — just curious.
📍 Where to swim in Copenhagen
You’ll find locals dipping in at:
- Islands Brygge Harbour Bath
- Nordhavn (Sandkaj)
- Kalvebod Bølge
- Secret canal spots between old bridges and modern buildings
Whether you’re visiting in July or January, bring a towel, a smile… and maybe a hot drink.
✂️ What to do afterwards
After the rush of harbour swimming in Copenhagen, why not slow down with a traditional Danish craft?
Join a private paper heart weaving workshop in a cozy home. You’ll sit by candlelight, learn an old tradition, and make your own julehjerte to take home.
🔗 Join the Ugly Duckli paper heart experience
☕ Local tip
Bring a thermos of coffee and a warm robe. Most swimmers stay in just 10–30 seconds — and come out smiling.
Photo credit:
© Emily Wilson Photography / VisitDenmark
Rikke is the founder of Ugly Duckli in Frederiksberg, Copenhagen. She shares her love of the Danish tradition of woven Christmas hearts and the stories, memories and people connected to them.
Ugly Duckli is built around a simple idea: When we weave hearts, we weave ourselves into each other’s lives.
Rikke creates Ugly Duckli’s own paper heart designs and welcomes international guests into her Frederiksberg home for the Private Paper Heart Experience, where they learn to weave traditional Danish Christmas hearts.