Capturing Copenhagen's Charm: A Photographer's Guide to The Round Tower

Part of our Copenhagen travel guide  — explore all our Copenhagen posts.

Copenhagen, a city where fairy tales meet modern design, offers countless visual delights. Among its most iconic and photogenic landmarks is Rundetaarn, The Round Tower. More than just an observatory, this 17th-century architectural marvel boasts a unique spiral equestrian ramp leading to panoramic views, inviting photographers to capture its distinctive beauty and the charming cityscape beyond. Prepare your lens for an adventure that winds through history and up to the skies, revealing Copenhagen's soul from a breathtaking vantage point.

A Spiraling Photographic Journey Up Rundetaarn

Your photographic journey begins even before you step inside, with the tower's striking brick exterior. Focus on its sturdy, ancient lines, perhaps contrasting it with modern passersby. Once inside, the magic truly unfolds. The unique, gentle spiral ramp, originally designed for horses and carriages, is a photographer's dream. Start by capturing the sweeping curves of the ramp from various angles on the ground floor, playing with leading lines and perspective. As you ascend, pause frequently. The interplay of light and shadow changes with each turn, offering endless opportunities for compelling shots. Look for the small, recessed windows that offer glimpses of the street below, creating framed compositions. Around halfway up, you'll discover the former University Library Hall, a vast, airy space now used for exhibitions. This is an excellent spot for interior architectural shots, highlighting the vaulted ceilings and the sheer scale of the room. Continue your climb, always mindful of the natural light pouring in. The ramp itself provides a sense of continuous motion, which can be emphasized with long exposure if you're feeling adventurous and have a tripod (though space is limited). Finally, emerge onto the outdoor observation deck. Here, a 360-degree panorama of Copenhagen awaits. Dedicate time to capturing the city's spires, red-tiled roofs, and bustling streets. Experiment with wide-angle shots to encompass the vastness, and zoom in on specific landmarks like Rosenborg Castle or the Øresund Bridge in the distance. Don't forget to look straight down through the central hollow core for a dizzying perspective shot.

The Experience

of ascending Rundetaarn is one of gentle anticipation, a continuous reveal. The smooth, worn bricks of the spiral ramp whisper tales of centuries past, their texture cool beneath your fingertips. Each turn offers a new play of light, from the bright shafts cutting across the ramp to the soft, diffused glow within the library hall. The silence, punctuated only by the occasional echo of footsteps or hushed conversations, amplifies the sense of historical immersion. Reaching the top, the crisp Danish air invigorates as the city unfurls beneath you – a tapestry of greens and browns, punctuated by the vibrant hues of Nyhavn's houses and the metallic sheen of distant modern architecture. The sounds of the city drift up, a distant hum, yet the immediate sensation is one of serene elevation, providing a unique perspective on Copenhagen's dynamic charm.

Nearby Pairings

1. Strøget: Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street, perfect for capturing vibrant street life and elegant Danish design, just a short walk away.
2. Rosenborg Castle: A magnificent Renaissance castle housing the Danish Crown Jewels, offering stunning garden and architectural photography opportunities, easily reachable by foot.
3. Nyhavn: The iconic colorful harbor with historic ships and vibrant cafes, a quintessential Copenhagen postcard scene that's a must for any photographer.

How to Visit Smoothly

Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time, especially during peak season. The Round Tower's spiral ramp is generally easy to ascend, but comfortable shoes are a must. While tripods are technically allowed, space can be tight on the ramp, particularly if it's crowded, so consider a monopod or simply relying on good hand-holding technique. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, both inside the tower and from the observation deck, and generally fewer crowds. Check the opening hours, as they can vary, and allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore and capture all your desired shots without rushing.

Photo Notes

For the spiral ramp, use a wide-angle lens to emphasize the leading lines and curvature. Experiment with different apertures – a smaller aperture (higher f-number) will keep more of the ramp in focus, while a wider aperture (lower f-number) can create beautiful depth-of-field effects if you focus on a specific detail. Look for strong light sources (windows, the central core) and use them to create dramatic silhouettes or highlights. On the observation deck, consider shooting through the railings for a slightly different perspective, or use them as a foreground element. Overcast days can be great for diffused, even light, while sunny days offer dramatic contrasts and shadows. Don't forget to look up at the observatory dome for unique interior shots.