Assistens Cemetery

4.4
(649 reviews)
Kapelvej 2, Copenhagen 2200 Denmark
Official website
Cemeteries
Sights & Landmarks
Attraction

About

Assistens Cemetery, situated in the lively Nørrebro district of Copenhagen, covers 25 hectares of historic green space where the city’s most celebrated figures are laid to rest. Established in 1760 as a burial ground for the impoverished, it quickly grew into the final resting place for Denmark’s cultural icons during the Golden Age. Today, the cemetery doubles as a tranquil urban park that attracts both history buffs and casual walkers alike. Its most famous graves belong to literary giants Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard, as well as Nobel laureate physicist Niels Bohr. The elegant, stone‑lined paths are punctuated by delicate tombstones and memorials, providing a contemplative backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Over the centuries, the cemetery has woven itself into Copenhagen’s daily life, becoming a beloved spot for picnics, memorial visits, and quiet reflection. The grounds now also house the small Herman Stilling Museum, a former horse‑stable turned exhibition space featuring works by the local artist and serving as an added cultural attraction. Visitors can explore the cemetery’s various sections—A through F—each showcasing different architectural styles and interment periods, and enjoy guided tours or self‑paced walks that reveal the rich tapestry of Danish heritage all within one green oasis.

Highlights

  • Hans Christian Andersen Grave
  • Søren Kierkegaard Tomb
  • Niels Bohr Memorial
  • Herman Stilling Museum
  • Lush Green Landscape

Must-See Areas

Section A – Andersen & Kierkegaard
Section D – Religious Minorities
Herman Stilling Museum
Central Walkway

Good to Know

Good for

Families
History Enthusiasts
Literary Lovers
Nature Lovers

Best time to visit

Spring and early fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it the ideal time to visit Assistens Cemetery.

Pros & Cons

What visitors love

  • Free Access
  • Historic Significance
  • Peaceful Green Walk
  • Cultural Museum

Things to consider

  • Weekend Crowds
  • Limited Guided Tours
  • Overgrown Paths Sometimes

What people are saying

"Family‑Friendly""Historical Richness""Relaxing Atmosphere"