Swimming in Copenhagen Harbor is one of Europe's great urban experiences — the harbor water is clean enough to swim in and the Islands Brygge outdoor baths are packed from June to August.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Copenhagen cleaned up its harbor in the 1990s and has been swimming in it ever since. The Islands Brygge Havnebad (Harbor Bath) opened in 2002 with five pools directly in the harbor — a diving platform, children's pools, and social sunbathing areas that pack with Copenhageners on summer days. La Banchina in Holmen adds a sauna, restaurant, and outdoor swimming in a more intimate setting. Harbor swimming is free and represents the city's commitment to urban quality of life at its most remarkable.
What Stands Out
- Swimming in the harbor since 2002
- Islands Brygge Havnebad
- Five outdoor pools
- Diving platform
- Free to access
- La Banchina sauna and restaurant
- Peak season: June–August