New campaign targets unsafe cycling by tourists in Copenhagen

A new campaign has been launched to improve traffic safety by educating cycling tourists in Copenhagen, where nearly a third of local cyclists report significant issues caused by visitors on bikes.

A survey conducted by Epinion for the Danish Road Safety Council in autumn 2025 found that 32% of Copenhagen cyclists consider tourist cyclists a “high” or “very high” traffic safety problem. The campaign, initiated by the Road Safety Council, aims to inform tourists about Danish cycling rules through city displays and social media.

“The goal is to prevent tourists from getting into trouble in traffic while visiting Denmark, but also to protect Copenhagen’s cyclists,” said Jakob Bøving Arendt, CEO of the Road Safety Council. He noted that while health data does not specify the scale of injuries, the issue requires shared responsibility.

Copenhagen Police support the campaign, with traffic commissioner Benjamin Touré urging local cyclists to set a good example. “Unfortunately, we see that rules are not always followed,” he told Politiken.

Arendt emphasized that tourists must learn the rules, but the tourism industry and locals also share responsibility. Wonderful Copenhagen, the city’s tourism body, acknowledges its role. Director Klaus Bondam said the organization encourages cycling but advises tourists on navigating the city’s bike lanes safely.

A 2024 survey revealed that half of Danish cyclists admit to breaking traffic rules regularly, highlighting the need for locals to model better behavior. Bondam urged Copenhagen cyclists to slow down and offer guidance to struggling tourists.