History buffs and beer enthusiasts finally have a reason to unite. At Copenhagen’s Visit Carlsberg Experience, visitors discover the factory’s unique architecture, get an intimate look at the world-famous beer brewery’s history, and they get the opportunity to sample some delicious beers on tap after the visit. What’s not to love?
Stop by the Elephant Gate
Before entering the factory, make sure to stop by the Elephant Gate. If you’re approaching the factory on foot, it will be impossible to miss these massive statues guarding the building’s entrance. The gates were built in 1901 and have since become one of the most recognizable structures in the city. Originally constructed as a water tower for the brewery, the gate and associated tower now serves a purely esthetic purpose. Elephants were chosen to symbolize strength. Carl Jacobsen, the son of Carlsberg’s founder, designed the gate with his four children in mind. Each elephant bears the initials of the one of the children as well as the swastika symbol, which before it was repurposed by the Nazis, was a symbol for auspiciousness in Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Take a trip back in time in the Old Brewhouse
Your tour of the exhibit starts in the Old Brewhouse. This building made up part of the original Carlsberg factory in the 19th century. Today the space has been renovated into a fascinating museum focused on the brewery’s beginnings, beer making techniques, and the global spread of the brand. You’ll also learn about a typical day for brewery employees in the late-19th and early-20th centuries. Videos, artifacts, and interactive display boards make for a varied and educational visit. One of the most striking elements of the exhibit is the bottle exhibition. This collection of beers from every country of the world is constantly being added to. Carlsberg keeps count and displays the updated number of bottles each day. It has consistently been listed as the world’s biggest collection of unopened beer bottles in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Hang out with Carlsberg’s ambassadors, the Jutland horses!
The Carlsberg brand has long been associated with Jutland horses. This breed was chosen for its large size and strength. Before the advent of automobiles, beer was delivered using horse and carriage. Carriages were splashed with the company’s logo, making for an inexpensive marketing campaign. Although Carlsberg has adopted more modern delivery methods, the Jutland horses are still housed on the grounds and serve as brand ambassadors during special occasions and festivals. While near the stables, make sure to check out the various delivery carts and trucks that have been used throughout Carlsberg’s history.
Enjoy a beer at the end of the tour
You’ll have a clear understanding of the Carlsberg family, the brand’s history, and the evolution of the company after you finish touring the complex. But it’s hard to completely understand a company without experiencing its products. Luckily, your entrance ticket entitles you to two free beers at the Jacobsen Brewhouse & Bar, located at the end of the visit. You’ll have your choice of five or so beers and the selection changes when new products appear. There’s plenty of seating, including a comfy lounge area complete with couches. The copper-plated bar serves up additional beers for purchase as well. Basic bar snacks like nuts, chips, and sausage are also available, or if you’re hungrier, opt for a sandwich or salad made with local fish and vegetables.
Prepare for your visit
The Visit Carlsberg Experience is open every day from 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Adult tickets (age 18 and over) cost 95 DKK (14.18 USD) and includes two beers or soft drinks at the end of the visit. Youth tickets (age 6 to 17) cost 70 DKK (10.45 USD) and include two soft drinks.
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Facebook Log in with Twitter Log in with Google ×