Axel Towers

TLDR: Axel Towers in Copenhagen offers a modern architectural experience with five copper-clad, circular buildings featuring public ground-floor cafes, shops, a raised urban garden, and a sky bar with impressive city views, right across from Tivoli Gardens. It's a striking blend of modern design and public space, best appreciated for its unique aesthetic and dining.

Stepping out into Copenhagen's vibrant heart, I recently found myself captivated by Axel Towers. This isn't your typical historical landmark; it's a sleek, contemporary statement that stands tall amidst a city steeped in history. 

For fellow travelers wondering if this cluster of gleaming towers is worth a stop, I've got you covered. In this article, I'll share my firsthand impressions, diving into its unique design, public accessibility, and whether it deserves a spot on your Danish itinerary.

What is the story behind Axel Towers?

The ground beneath Axel Towers has quite the history. Before these striking buildings rose, this very spot was a lively entertainment complex called Scala, and even further back, a part of a railway station outside the old city walls. Fast forward to 2017, and Danish firm Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects, led by Lene Tranberg, unveiled their vision. They scrapped an initial plan for one massive building, opting instead for five distinct, circular towers that vary in height. This clever design decision opened up a significant amount of public space – over 1,700 square meters – creating a sense of openness that felt surprisingly welcoming, almost echoing the playful spirit of nearby Tivoli Gardens.

The buildings themselves are wrapped in a special material called Tombac, an alloy of copper and zinc. I noticed its warm, golden sheen, which I learned will gradually transform to a greenish-brown over time. This natural aging process is designed to subtly reflect Copenhagen's historic copper rooftops, tying the modern structure to the city's past in a unique way.

Is there public access to Axel Towers?

Absolutely, there's more to Axel Towers than just a pretty facade. While the bulk of the towers house offices, the ground floor is quite accessible and buzzing with activity. I found several inviting shops and cafes, perfect for a quick coffee or a treat from a chocolatier.

One of the real surprises was the raised urban garden tucked between the five towers. It offers a peaceful spot to pause, with glimpses of the city around you. If you're looking for something a bit more elevated, literally, the upper floors are home to various restaurants and a sky bar. 

You can even find Trio, a sibling restaurant to the Michelin-starred AOC, perched on the 9th and 10th floors, promising some impressive views. The diverse public areas provide a nice contrast to the primarily commercial interior.

What makes Axel Towers unique?

What immediately strikes you about Axel Towers is its distinctive form. It's a cluster of five circular towers, each a different height, playfully rising from 5 to 15 floors. The tallest reaches around 67 meters. This varied, almost whimsical silhouette, designed by Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects, is apparently a deliberate nod to the lively atmosphere of Tivoli Gardens right across the street.

The building's skin is another unique element. The copper-colored Tombac alloy truly stands out, reflecting the light in different ways throughout the day. I could imagine how its gradual patina will evolve, adding character and depth, much like the historic copper domes and spires I saw elsewhere in the city. But it's not just the exterior; the interior design thoughtfully creates inviting public spaces. 

You'll find open areas winding between the towers, broad staircases leading to an elevated inner square, all designed to encourage free movement and offer little urban oases. The ground level, with its shops and eateries, further cements its role as a vibrant hub. And as you'll discover when considering a visit, the panoramic views from the upper-level sky bars add another layer of uniqueness.

Is it worth visiting Axel Towers?

Deciding if Axel Towers is worth your time really depends on what you're looking for. If you're an architecture enthusiast, a photographer, or someone who appreciates modern urban design, then yes, it's absolutely worth a look. The five distinct, copper-clad cylindrical towers are a bold architectural statement, especially as the light changes in the late afternoon, making the facades glow. 

The central courtyard is a calm spot to take a breather. For a truly memorable experience, I hear that dining at one of the upper-level restaurants, like TRIO, particularly around sunset, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tivoli Gardens and the City Hall.

However, it's important to set expectations. Axel Towers is primarily a mixed-use office complex, so much of the interior isn't publicly accessible beyond the ground floor. If you're hoping for extensive exhibitions or traditional museum-style attractions, you might find it limited. Dining at the rooftop establishments can also be quite expensive. 

Unlike a historical site such as The Round Tower, Axel Towers offers a contemporary architectural experience rather than a deep dive into history. It's easily reachable from the Rådhuspladsen Metro or Central Station, and you can appreciate its exterior and public ground areas for free. 

A quick visit might only take minutes, but if you linger for a meal or photography, you could easily spend an hour or two. To maximize your time and help prioritize your sightseeing in København, you might consider downloading StoryHunt, an app that offers engaging audio stories for various attractions, allowing you to discover the city at your own pace.

What else can I do in København?

After experiencing the modern architectural flair of Axel Towers, you're perfectly positioned to explore several other fantastic spots in København. Literally steps away, you'll find the iconic Tivoli Gardens, a whimsical amusement park and beautiful garden oasis. The contrast between Axel Towers' sleek lines and Tivoli's historic charm is delightful, especially in the evenings when Tivoli lights up.

Just a short stroll will take you to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an impressive art museum known for its ancient sculptures and a stunning, serene winter garden. The museum itself is an architectural marvel and offers a different kind of visual feast. From there, you can easily reach Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square), a bustling central point surrounded by grand historic buildings. From Rådhuspladsen, you can seamlessly transition onto Strøget, one of Europe's longest pedestrian shopping streets, perfect for people-watching or browsing. And for a completely different perspective, I highly recommend a Canal Tour. These boat trips depart from central locations and offer a relaxing way to see the city's landmarks, historic canals, and waterfront architecture from the water.