9 places to try ice bathing in Copenhagen, from Islands Brygge to Nordhavn, plus the difference between swimming and dipping zones.
Ice bathing has become hugely popular in Copenhagen, and you can safely and legally take a cold dip in plenty of spots around the harbour. The best known are Islands Brygge (Bryggen) and Nordhavn, but there are many more good options. Below we cover 9 of them, explain the difference between swimming zones and dipping zones, and share tips on water quality and clubs.
Before we get into the spots, it's worth knowing the difference between swimming zones and dipping zones. If jumping straight into the harbour without being able to stand isn't for you, dipping zones are perfect: they have a solid bottom. You can always check the dipping zones on the City of Copenhagen's website.
Islands Brygge, or just Bryggen, is probably Copenhagen's best-known ice bathing spot. Havnebadet Islands Brygge sits centrally with a view of the city skyline, and is a bustling oasis with a strong community and facilities open year-round. Kalvebod Bølge and Dipping Zone 1 are right nearby, so the whole Bryggen area is great for a cold dip, whether you're a beginner or experienced.
📍 Where: Islands Brygge 14, 2300 Copenhagen S
In Nordhavn, right by the iconic bathing club with the floating cabins, you'll find both a swimming zone and Copenhagen's second dipping zone. Thanks to its popular location, the site is used heavily by both summer and winter swimmers. For sauna and changing room access, you need to be a member of Nordhavn Vinterbadeklub.
📍 Where: Sandkaj 27, 2150 Copenhagen
On Refshaleøen you'll find La Banchina, with a laid-back atmosphere right on the water. Alongside ice bathing from the jetty, you can enjoy a wood-fired sauna. A charming little oasis in the middle of the city.
📍 Where: Refshalevej 141, 1432 Copenhagen
Right next to the innovative Urban Rigger containers, this swimming zone is a popular pick for anyone after that cool shock.
📍 Where: Refshalevej 145, 1432 Copenhagen
Havnegade in the city centre has a swimming zone with a small pool, ideal if you'd rather have solid ground under your feet. Perfect for beginners who want a quick dip.
📍 Where: Havnegade 46, 1058 Copenhagen K
Kalvebod Bølge offers a unique in-city swimming experience with a lovely view of Islands Brygge. There's often a small coffee van nearby.
📍 Where: Kalvebod Bølge 3C, 1560 Copenhagen V
A newer swimming zone right by the water, with a large wooden deck and an enclosed area so you can take a dip whatever the season.
📍 Where: Teglholmsgade 10E, 2450 Copenhagen SV
With its 100-metre swimming zone, this is Copenhagen's longest. Ideal for swimming laps, and you can happily take the cold plunge here in winter too.
📍 Where: Richard Boones Vej 7, 2450 Copenhagen
One of Copenhagen's green oases. There's wheelchair access via a ramp in the wooden structure, plus toilet and changing facilities.
📍 Where: Selinevej 18, 2300 Copenhagen S
Several of these spots are run by winter bathing clubs, where members get access to a sauna, changing rooms and a great community. Nordhavn Vinterbadeklub is one of the best known, but there are clubs at several points along the harbour. Membership often requires signing up well in advance, since many clubs have a waitlist.
You can always check the current forecast for water quality and weather conditions on Badevandsudsigten. Always check conditions before jumping in, and never bathe alone if you're a beginner.
Not fully convinced about ice bathing yet, or love combining cold with heat? Take a look at our guide to aufguss in Copenhagen.
Enjoy the cold water season!
Best, Magnus 👋
You can ice bathe in plenty of spots around the harbour, including Islands Brygge (Bryggen), Nordhavn, La Banchina on Refshaleøen, Havnegade, Kalvebod Bølge, Teglholm and Byskoven. In total there are at least 9 good spots.
Yes, as long as you use the designated swimming and dipping zones. Always check water quality on Badevandsudsigten first, and it's best to bathe with others.
A dipping zone has a solid bottom, so you can stand and get out quickly, ideal for beginners. A swimming zone is deeper and better suited for actual swimming.
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