Refshaleøen is a former shipyard district on Copenhagen’s waterfront, now home to food stalls, creative businesses, art spaces and concert venues. Come for a meal at the street food market, then walk the industrial waterfront or take a swim at Søndre Refshalebassin. On a sunny day, outdoor seating makes it easy to linger over food and drinks with harbour views. The area is spread out, so a bike or bus can help you get around. Concert nights bring a different scene, but can mean slow, crowded departures.
From shipyard to waterfront district
Refshaleøen is an artificial island at the northeastern edge of Copenhagen. It once housed a major shipyard; its former industrial buildings and waterfront now sit alongside food businesses, creative enterprises, art spaces and venues for concerts and events.
The area is spread out, and different visits can feel quite distinct. You might come for the food market, explore workshops and creative businesses, or attend a performance in a converted warehouse. Allow for travel between stops rather than treating the island as one compact attraction.
Food, art and time by the water
The street food market is a draw for its range of food and drink choices, seating and live music. It is particularly suited to a sunny visit, when you can eat outdoors and take in the harbour setting. La Banchina is another named place to consider for food and drink.
For a different kind of stop, the former industrial district is home to art spaces and creative enterprises. Søndre Refshalebassin is a swimming area, so bring swimwear if you want to pair a meal or a walk with a dip. The wider district also has venues for concerts and events.
Getting around and planning an event visit
Cycling is a practical way to reach Refshaleøen and move between its spread-out stops; buses are another option. The journey from central Copenhagen is described as short, though the time can depend on how you travel.
If you are going to a large concert, plan your departure with care. Crowds and traffic can build when an event ends, and getting away may take considerably longer than expected. A daytime visit focused on food, the waterfront and swimming avoids making a concert exit part of the plan.
Perguntas frequentes
How do you get to Refshaleøen?
You can go by bike or bus. Cycling is also useful for getting around because the area is spread out.
Can you swim at Refshaleøen?
Yes. Søndre Refshalebassin is a swimming area. Bring swimwear if you plan to take a dip.
What can you do at Refshaleøen?
Visit the street food market, explore creative businesses and art spaces, swim by the waterfront, or attend a concert or event.
Is it difficult to leave after a concert?
Large events can produce crowds and traffic as people leave at once. Allow extra time for the journey out.
