Oresund Aquarium (Oresundsakvariet)

The basics

Compact enough for you to experience in just an hour or two, the Øresund Aquarium is the ideal family break from sightseeing in Copenhagen. Observe fish and other marine life that inhabit the waters of the Øresund Sound; stroke crabs, mussels, starfish, and flatfish in the touch tanks; net a fish for an up-close look in the “water laboratory;” and help feed the fish at the top of each hour. You can also join an aquarium “safari” by boat into the sound to spot seals, porpoises, tuna, and sea birds.

Things to know before you go

• This aquarium’s manageable size is ideal for small children, and there are a variety of exhibits and activities focused on families with kids.

• Wildlife-spotting safaris are suitable for adults and children six and up. These small boat excursions depart from the aquarium and include admission to the aquarium before or after the outing.

• There is no café at the aquarium (and food and drink are not allowed inside), but there are a handful of eateries at the nearby Nordhavnen marina.

• Most of the museum is accessible via a stairlift for wheelchairs; the lift cannot be used for strollers. Opt for a baby backpack or carrier or a light umbrella stroller to get around.

How to get there

The Øresund Aquarium sits on the harbor in central Helsingor about an hour’s train ride north of Copenhagen. You can walk to the aquarium from the Helsingør Station in about 15 minutes, or take one of the local bus routes that stop near the town’s harbor.

When to get there

The aquarium is open daily except for December 24–25 and 31 and January 1. Visit on a rainy day for a kid-friendly outing, or on a clear day to join one of the wildlife-spotting safaris that are offered on board the aquarium’s open-top rigid inflatable boat.

Helsingor for families

The harbor town of Helsingor is about 45 minutes north of Copenhagen by train and is a kid-friendly destination for families looking for a break from the capital city. In addition to the Øresund Aquarium, the town is home to the imposing Kronborg Castle, the Technical Museum of Denmark, and the Maritime Museum. Kids often love to watch the boats bobbing in and out of the harbor while having lunch at the waterfront eateries.