Plizio Visual Lab

Round Tower

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Round Tower (Rundetårn) in Copenhagen is a historic 17th-century observatory built under King Christian IV as part of the Trinitatis Complex. Construction began in 1637 and was completed in 1642 to provide scholars from the University of Copenhagen with a dedicated space for astronomical research. The most distinctive feature of the 34.8-meter-high tower is its spiral ramp, a 209-meter-long walkway that winds seven and a half times around the hollow core. This unique architectural design allowed heavy astronomical equipment to be transported by horse-drawn carriage to the observation platform at the top. Once at the peak, visitors are treated to a panoramic view of Copenhagen's old town, with the observatory itself being the oldest functioning one in Europe. The tower also houses a library hall that once contained the university's entire book collection and is now used for cultural exhibitions. The Round Tower stands as a symbol of the golden age of Danish science and architecture, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually to the heart of the capital.

Location: Denmark
Top sights: Round Tower · Trinity Church · Synagogen
Nearby: Grondal (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	1	3	7	11	15	18	18	15	10	6	3
Rain mm	61	48	43	34	47	64	69	83	54	70	62	63

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Round Tower is a historic tower in central Copenhagen that can be climbed inside. Via a spiral corridor (not stairs) you reach the viewing platform. The tower is open to visitors, entry fee applies.

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Typical hours

The tower is typically open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, longer in summer until 20:00. Public holidays may have different hours. Check current times on the website.

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Photography

Photography is unrestricted throughout the tower and on the viewing platform. Flash is not needed indoors as lighting is sufficient. Tripod is not allowed on the platform due to limited space.

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Time needed

The climb to the platform takes about 5-10 minutes. For the entire visit including the small exhibition in the tower, allow 20-30 minutes. The view over the old town is worth it.

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Combine with

The tower is central - combine it with Strøget shopping street, the Royal Theatre, and Christiansborg Palace. Nearby are also Nikolaj Church and Gammeltorv Square. All attractions are within walking distance.

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Getting there

The tower is on Købmagergade Street, a few minutes' walk from Nørreport station. You can also reach it by metro (Nørreport station) or bus. Parking is scarce nearby - use public transport.

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Insider tip

Visit the tower early morning to avoid long queues. The spiral ramp is suitable for strollers or wheelchairs - ask about access options. From the platform you have a great view of the university and old town.