The Copenhagen Opera House sits on the island of Holmen across the harbour from the city centre, a massive plate of a building designed by Henning Larsen. The sheer overhang of the roof is its signature — a dramatic horizontal gesture over the glass facade that faces Amalienborg Palace across the water. Opened in 2005, it is one of the largest opera houses in the world.
Free guided tours run on weekends and give access to the main stage, the rehearsal halls, and the backstage areas. The main auditorium holds 1,500 and has exceptional acoustics. Even if opera is not your thing, the building is worth crossing the harbour for — either on foot via the harbour bridge or by water bus. The terrace cafe is a good spot for a beer with views back across the water to the palace and spires.