Copenhagen, Denmark’s cozy little capital, is now a tourist magnet. People from all over are showing up in droves to check out the colorful houses, canals, and famous bikes. But here’s the thing: locals are kind of over it. Too many visitors, too much noise, and not enough chill.
Tourists Everywhere, Locals Losing It
If you live in Copenhagen, you’ve probably noticed how packed the city’s getting. The crowds aren’t just in the touristy spots anymore—they’re spilling into neighborhoods, hogging public spaces, and driving locals nuts.
Professor Lars Fuglsang from Roskilde University says “overtourism” isn’t really about numbers. It’s about how people feel. And right now, a lot of locals feel like their city’s being taken over.
The Problems: Airbnb, Bikes, and Noise
Ever tried to find an apartment in Copenhagen? Good luck. Airbnb’s got its grip on the rental market, and prices are through the roof. Then there’s the noise—especially during summer festivals—and clueless tourists biking around like they own the streets.
Fuglsang also mentioned how visitors don’t always follow the rules. “They’re out here drinking more, being loud, and crowding the public spaces,” he said.
Copenhagen’s Numbers Are Wild
In 2023, Denmark hit 32.5 million visitors—12% more than in 2019. And 2024’s numbers are already breaking records. Most of those people? They’re heading straight for Copenhagen. It’s Denmark’s top tourist spot, followed by beachy areas like Vesterhavet and the northwest coast.
Festivals: Fun for Some, a Headache for Others
Take this festival called Musik i Lejet. Back in 2019, it had about 700 people. Now? It’s pulling in 10,000. Locals in Tisvildeleje, where it’s held, have mixed feelings. Some love the buzz, but others feel like it’s wrecking their quiet little town.
Why Copenhagen?
Here’s the twist: people aren’t just coming for the pretty views. They’re escaping the heat. With global warming turning tropical spots into sweatboxes, cooler cities like Copenhagen are the new go-to.
Trying to Fix the Chaos
This summer, Copenhagen tried a “green tourism” program. Visitors who picked up trash or used public transport got free coffee or entry to cultural spots. Cool idea, but it ended in August.
And about that tourist tax Copenhagen wanted to introduce? The government shot it down in November, worried it’d hurt Denmark’s reputation as a chill destination.
Copenhagen’s got that magic that pulls people in, but if you’re planning a visit, maybe don’t act like it’s your playground. Respect the locals, keep the noise down, and don’t make it harder for them to live in their own city. Cool? Cool.