Copenhagen is known as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world.^[97] Every day 1.1 million km are bicycled in Copenhagen.^[98] 36% of all citizens commute to work, school or university by bicycle^[99] and it is municipal policy that this number should go up to 40% by 2012 and 50% in 2015.^[100] The city's bicycle paths are extensive and well used. Bicycle paths are often separated from the main traffic lanes and sometimes have their own signal systems.

The municipality is also developing a system of interconnected green bicycle routes, greenways, the aim being to facilitate fast, safe, and pleasant bicycle transport from one end of the city to the other. The network will cover more than 100 km (62 mi) and will have 22 routes when finished.^[100] The city provides public bicycles which can be found throughout the downtown area and used with a returnable deposit of 20 kroner.

Copenhagen's well-developed bicycle culture is reflected in the use of ‘copenhagenize’ to describe the practice of other cities adopting Copenhagen-style bike lanes and bicycle infrastructure.^[101] In 2007 Copenhagen-based Danish urban design consultant Jan Gehl was hired by the New York City Department of Transportation to re-imagine New York City streets by introducing designs to improve life for pedestrians and cyclists.^[102] In recognition of Copenhagen's emphasis on bicycling, the city has been chosen by theUnion Cycliste Internationale as their first official Bike City. Bike City Copenhagen will take place from 2008 to 2011 and consist of big cycling events for professionals as well as amateurs.^[99]