The Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is a 17th-century tower built as an astronomical observatory for the University of Copenhagen. Completed in 1642 under King Christian IV, its unique feature is a 209-meter spiral ramp instead of stairs - wide enough that Peter the Great reportedly rode a horse up in 1716. At 36 meters tall, it offers panoramic views over Copenhagens old town from its rooftop observation platform.
Free for children 0-17. No longer included in Copenhagen Card since April 2024. ICOM discount available
Late afternoon for best light and views. Summer evenings until 20:00 offer long daylight. During peak hours expect up to 20-minute wait. Weekday mornings are quietest
Located on pedestrian street Købmagergade between Strøget and Nørreport. Metro M3/M4 to Gammel Strand or Nørreport. Climb via spiral ramp — no stairs! Observatory and city panorama at the top.
Walk 200 meters up a gentle spiral ramp (no steps, wheelchair accessible to Library Hall). Pass through the Library Hall with current exhibitions. Climb final stairs to rooftop platform for 360-degree views of Copenhagen. Total visit 30-45 minutes
Observatory under restoration 2025-2026
faq.subtitle Round Tower
The spiral ramp was designed to transport heavy astronomical equipment to the observatory at the top. King Christian IV wanted wheeled carts to carry instruments up easily. Legend says Tsar Peter the Great rode up on horseback in 1716, and his wife followed in a carriage
The 209-meter spiral ramp is gentle and easy for most people. Only the final section has stairs to the viewing platform. The ramp is wheelchair accessible to the Library Hall. Take your time and enjoy the unique architecture
Useful tips for visiting Round Tower
Walk up the unique spiral ramp - no stairs! The Library Hall halfway up has changing exhibitions. Check out the hollow glass floor to see 25m down the core. Evening views at sunset are spectacular. The working astronomical observatory (Europes oldest) still holds public observation nights
Located on Kobmagergade pedestrian street between Stroget and Norresport. Metro M3/M4 to Gammel Strand or Norresport, 5-minute walk. On the route of the Royal Guards morning march to Amalienborg
Walk 200 meters up a gentle spiral ramp (no steps, wheelchair accessible to Library Hall). Pass through the Library Hall with current exhibitions. Climb final stairs to rooftop platform for 360-degree views of Copenhagen. Total visit 30-45 minutes
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