Tivoli Gardens
Hovedstaden
Tivoli Gardens, opened in 1843 in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, is the world's second-oldest operating amusement park and a cherished cultural landmark. Founded by Georg Carstensen, the park was designed as a pleasure garden with exotic architecture, musical performances, and mechanical rides, creating a unique blend of entertainment and artistry. Its signature wooden roller coaster, Rutschebanen, built in 1914, remains one of the oldest coasters still in operation globally. Tivoli also features the Pantomimeteatret, a Chinese-style open-air theatre showcasing traditional Italian pantomime characters, preserving a rare theatrical tradition. The park has endured historical challenges, including bombings during World War II, but has continually evolved while maintaining its original charm and traditions. Today, it attracts millions of visitors annually, offering over 30 rides, diverse dining options, and seasonal events, making it a vibrant hub of amusement and culture in Scandinavia.
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Tip: Visit Tivoli Gardens during spring or special events like Easter to enjoy seasonal decorations and performances. Purchase tickets or ride passes online in advance to avoid queues. Consider dining reservations at popular restaurants within the park for a complete experience. Tivoli offers discounts for families, groups, and annual pass holders. Arrive early to explore both rides and cultural attractions comfortably.
Interesting facts
- •Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world, after Dyrehavsbakken in Denmark.
- •The park inspired Walt Disney's creation of Disneyland, with Disney famously stating that Disneyland would never be finished, echoing Carstensen's vision for Tivoli.
- •The wooden roller coaster, Rutschebanen, built in 1914, is one of the world's oldest wooden coasters still in operation and is classified as an ACE Coaster Classic.
- •The Pantomimeteatret features traditional Italian commedia dell'arte characters and uses a mechanical peacock tail as its curtain.
- •During World War II, the park was bombed by Nazi sympathizers but was quickly restored and reopened within weeks.
- •Tivoli's lake is a remnant of the old city moat and is sometimes said to still contain skeletons from a 1659 Swedish attack on Copenhagen.
History
Tivoli Gardens was founded in 1843 by Georg Carstensen, who convinced King Christian VIII to grant land outside Copenhagen's old city walls for the park.
Initially featuring exotic-style buildings, music, theatre, and mechanical rides, it quickly became a popular entertainment venue.
The park survived bombings during the Nazi occupation in World War II, reopening swiftly after damage.
Over the centuries, Tivoli has expanded and modernized while preserving its historic atmosphere and traditions, such as the pantomime theatre introduced in 1874 and the classic wooden roller coaster built in 1914.
Place Guide
Rutschebanen (The Mountain Coaster)1914
A historic wooden roller coaster built in 1914, known for its classic design and operator-controlled braking system to maintain safe speeds.
Pantomimeteatret1874
An open-air Chinese-style pantomime theatre featuring Italian commedia dell'arte performances with characters such as Cassander, Columbine, Harlequin, and Pierrot.
Tivoli Lake
A scenic lake within the gardens that is a remnant of the old city moat, adding to the park's historic atmosphere.
Contact
Phone: 33 15 10 01
