Fake AI images send tourists to nonexistent Copenhagen attractions

AI-generated images on a popular Instagram account are misleading tourists about Copenhagen attractions that do not exist, DR’s verification team reports. The account, Copenhagen Explore, has nearly 500,000 followers and posts pictures and recommendations for visitors to the city.

DR identified misleading images presented as Blågårds Plads and a fictional flea market on Ravnsborggade, a street in the Nørrebro district. One post also depicts a fountain that does not exist.

A post dated 10 October 2026 describes a flea market on Ravnsborggade, claiming locals browse vintage stalls and buy street food there on Saturdays from 9 am. But there is no flea market or street food on the street at weekends, and shops in the area are still closed at that hour, according to Marianne Lauritsen, owner of Sjæl Vintage on nearby Ryesgade.

Lauritsen said tourists have shown her the Instagram post and asked where to find the market. She said small businesses want to provide good service and are vulnerable to negative reviews, which can spread after visitors have a disappointing experience.

Line Nøhr Kobzili, marketing director at VisitDenmark, said misleading AI-generated tourist recommendations are becoming more common. She said images are altered to make places appear better, adding that Copenhagen already has a rich urban life and landscape.

Peter Grønlund Holm, a consumer policy adviser at the Danish Consumer Council Tænk, said people should be able to trust posts from commercial businesses. He said recommendations that are entirely made up could be in breach of marketing law.

DR has tried to contact Copenhagen Explore for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.