Nestled to the south-west of central Copenhagen, Valby is one of the Danish capital’s official districts. It was first mentioned in 1186 and is now a popular residential area with apartments, terraces and family homes. The name “Valby” translates as “village on the plain” and was once located on the main road connecting Copenhagen with Roskilde.
Things to do in Valby
In the heart of Valby is Big City Garden Park, a leafy green space with peaceful walking trails and grassy lawns where you can relax with a picnic. Adjacent to the park is a children’s playground and a handful of cafes, plus restaurants serving Italian and Japanese cuisine. Also nearby is the Teater V, a beloved performing arts venue set within a former electrical testing facility.
Valby makes an excellent base for exploring the Cisterns in Søndermarken, an underground exhibition space within Copenhagen’s former water reservoirs. It hosts changing art exhibitions and installations throughout the year, with dramatic lighting that adds to the experience. Above the Cisterns are the tree-lined walking trails of the Søndermarken.
Adjacent to the Søndermarken is Frederiksberg Palace, an Italian Baroque-style royal residence that is open to the public on guided tours. Wander through the opulently decorated rooms before visiting the Copenhagen Zoo, which is famed for its elephant house designed by the renowned British architect, Norman Foster. Adjacent to the palace are the English-style Frederiksberg Gardens, home to the Roman-inspired Apis Temple and an 1803-built Chinese summerhouse.
Getting around Valby
Valby is around 10 minutes’ drive from the centre of Copenhagen and 20 minutes from Copenhagen Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Valby and Langgade Street railway stations while buses also travel through the district, connecting most of its attractions.