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A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide

Danes are consistently rated as among the happiest people on earth so it was a no brainer to visit Denmark and see what all the fuss was about! At first glance, it’s hard to believe a country with harsh cold winters and short sunny summers could be utopia, but after spending a short week in Copenhagen I fell pretty in love myself!

From the coolest Danish interior designers to mouthwatering Danish food and jaw dropping Danish castle museums, everything and anything is avant garde here. If you’re planning your own trip, here are my top tips for things to see, do and try in Copenhagen!

Click the links to jump directly to each section

• Before You Go: Denmark Travel Checklist
• The Copenhagen Tourist Map : best sights you can't miss in Denmark!
• Where to Stay in Copenhagen : which neighborhood is the best?
• What to Eat in Denmark : must-have local Danish cuisine
• Is Copenhagen Expensive?  and how you can maximize your budget in Denmark
• Copenhagen Day Trips  for those with limited time
• Getting Around Copenhagen  how to get to Copenhagen, get around and general tips

Keep reading for some useful travel advice and of course, lots of images of Copenhagen!

Before You Go

We picked up a copy of Rick Steves to get our travel planning kick started. He’s not the authority on everywhere, but his books are packed full of great knowledge, times tables and insider tips so they always make a great guide.

We also did lots of food research and watched tons of Chef’s Table, where Rene Redzepi pops up in a couple episodes. He’s also in David Chang’s Ugly Delicious series, where an episode talks to him about his newest Noma pop up in Tulum.

Danish design is also swoonworthy. There are some interior design stores in NYC that carry Danish masters like Arne Jacobsen and Finn Juhl, but not many.

Books, Shows & Films to Get in the Mood for Your Trip to Denmark:

• Guidebooks :  Rick Steves Copenhagen
• Books : 101 Danish Design Icons , The Little Book of Hygge , How to Be Danish

The Copenhagen Tourist Map

There's so much to see and do in Denmark's capital. If you like history and architecture, don't skip Rosenborg Castle where Danish royalty once lived and where the Danish crown jewels glitter on display. If you like to people watch, Mad & Kaffe and The Living Room are some of the top coffee shops in Copenhagen with delicious small bites. Museum lovers shouldn't miss SMK or Glyptoket .

Tivoli Gardens , an outdoor amusement park, is fun for both adults and families while the Little Mermaid is an iconic statue docked just off north Copenhagen's cruise harbor. And if you love exploring local cuisine, make some room for Geranium , Copenhagen's only 3 star Michelin restaurant or  Aamanns , the king of smørrebrød and a classic Danish lunch spot.

Check out my complete guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen HERE .

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

If you love boutique hotels as much as I do, you're in for a treat. Copenhagen has so many unique, beautiful hotels with stylish Scandinavian furniture, filling breakfasts and cheerful happy hour. Lots of hotels offer a fantastic breakfast, a free drink at happy hour and plenty of lounge space to mingle (perfect if you're visiting solo or want to meet other travelers).

• For a budget hotel, check out Generator Copenhagen - these are a fancy hostel where you can choose shared or single rooms and the design is really something else. I'm not a hostel person but these are so much fancier than your traditional hostel, I'm not sure what category to put them in! Generator has locations all over Europe and they usually are located right in the center of town - in Copenhagen it's between Downtown and Christiansborg.  Check rates & availability here .
• For a true Danish hotel experience, stay at Ibsens . Near Torvehallerne and Rosenborg palace, this hotel is a great value hotel with complimentary happy hour, minimalist rooms and a heavenly breakfast of locally sourced Danish produce. Check rates & availability here or read our in-depth review here .
• For sumptuous, beautifully furnished rooms and first class service, stay at Hotel D'Angleterre . The oldest luxury hotel in Copenhagen, this one is located right in Kongens Nyrtov square close to shopping and sights. It's also THE spot in town for luxury, with its on site restaurant holding 1 michelin star.  Check rates & availability here

For a complete guide to Copenhagen's neighborhoods and tons of expert recommended hotels, check out my in-depth post on Copenhagen hotels HERE .

What to Eat in Copenhagen

Whether you want comforting Danish classics, new age Nordic cuisine or international cuisine, Copenhagen has a great restaurant scene. Make sure to try local pastries and pick up a bag of local coffee beans - Danes take their bread and coffee seriously!

Copenhagen is one of the most fun cities to explore for gourmands so eat away! I recommend sampling smorrebrod (open faced sandwich), grod (porridge) and aebleflaesk (apple pork) at least once before you leave. While their translated English names don't sound all that fantastic, trust me, they're delicious!

Is Copenhagen Expensive?

In one word,  yes.  The only thing holding me back from packing up my bags and relocating to Denmark is how incredibly expensive the cost of living is.

Here are some tips for visiting Copenhagen on a budget:

Meals hit the hardest - basic foods like hot dogs or ramen can cost $20-25 per person and still leave you hungry. Cheap, delicious eats in Copenhagen tend to be from other cuisines so try Vietnamese, Thai or Indian food while you're in town!

Surprisingly, I actually thought the set menus at fine dining restaurants offered better value for your buck so don't rule those out for your trip. I compiled a list of incredible Danish restaurants here .

Decide which sights and attractions you want to visit and determine if the Copenhagen Card is worth it for your trip. It includes public transportation and lots of the top sights in Copenhagen so it can be quite budget friendly! I break down how we used it in this post HERE and whether it was worth the purchase

Consider traveling in the off season. Airfare dips and in November and December, Copenhagen celebrates Christmas in the coziest way! Check flight deals here .

Try out Airbnb   if you're looking for accommodation on a budget. Danish apartments have some beautiful architecture so you often find a local's place that's beautifully designed and more affordable.

Or, choose a cheaper hotel slightly outside the city center to save on accommodation. Check out my review of Ibsens Hotel , our first hotel spot which was convenient and affordable. 

Copenhagen Day Trips

Some of the best things we did was explore outside of downtown Copenhagen. I highly recommend visiting the Louisiana Museum of Art, even if you don't like art - it's a unique space built to house modern art within nature. The area is really scenic, right near the ocean, and even the lake and trees feel sculptural.

Another great day trip is to Hamlet's Castle, called Kronborg Castle in Denmark. We loved seeing the castle's interiors and discovering Holger the Dane in the castle's crypt.

You can also day trip to Malmo, Sweden if you have extra time in Copenhagen (just make sure to exchange some Krona first). Other up and coming Danish cities include Aarhus and Odense.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Danes love riding their bicycles and it feels like pedestrians are the second citizens in Copenhagen! Join in on the fun by renting a bike (hotels usually offer this) or you can find bike shops for day rentals - it will be around $25 USD per day.

We used Copenhagen's subway, buses and trains quite a bit and found them very easy to navigate. For buses, I usually rely on Google Maps on my phone so that I know where to get off. Also don't forget that if you have a Copenhagen Card all public transportation in and around Copenhagen is free!

To get to and from the airport, we took the metro and then airport link. That too, is free with the Copenhagen Card, and pretty stress free with lots of luggage if you travel outside of rush hour.

Enjoy your trip to Copenhagen! If you have any questions about planning a visit to Denmark, let me know in the comments.

Planning a Trip to Denmark – Travel Checklist

Flights | Many European airlines will offer flights to Denmark with a stopover. Flights from New York weren't cheap, but booking in advance helps. Check for  flight deals here .

Travel Tips | We spent a week in Copenhagen and as it was our first time visiting Denmark, we wanted to see the sights. Purchasing the 5-day Copenhagen Card saved us quite a bit on admission prices but do check their list of included attractions here to make sure that it's worth it for your visit.

Accommodation | Lastly, we decided to switch hotels to explore Copenhagen's different neighborhoods . The city is quite large so it was nice to base ourselves in different districts! Hotels get quite expensive (well, Copenhagen as a whole is wallet shattering) so check hotel availability and book in advance. Check here for great deals on accommodation .

Or, give  Airbnb  a go. There are some beautiful Danish apartments available for rent!

Insurance | Our bags were left behind for 3 days due to an airport-wide tech issue in Amsterdam. We knew when we pulled up to the airport that something was wrong because the lines were complete chaos and everyone stood still at the baggage drop off. Once they told us to put our bags through baggage drop, we did it and I immediately had a bad feeling about it – wish we had went carry on only! 

Luckily, we had travel insurance  which reimbursed us for out of pocket expenses. Whether your luggage is lost, your phone gets stolen, or you get injured and need to be hospitalized, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a  quote for your trip here .

Copenhagen Vacation Planning Articles

A First Timer's Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

When Is the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen?

A Neighborhood Guide to Where to Stay in Copenhagen

25 Incredible Things to Do in Copenhagen Before You Die

Denmark for First Timers: A 3 Day Copenhagen Itinerary

Copenhagen Sights, Activities & Tours We Especially Enjoyed:

Will a Copenhagen Card Save You Money? We Weigh the Pros & Cons

5 Fairy Tale Copenhagen Castles That Will Make Your Jaw Drop

21 Copenhagen Museums that Show the Unique Beauty of Denmark

Denmark Restaurant & Hotel Reviews

Danish Food Guide: 30 of the Best Restaurants in Copenhagen

A Michelin Star Dinner in Copenhagen: Marchal at D'Angleterre

Ibsens Hotel Review : Is This the Best Hotel in Copenhagen?

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Absolutely beautiful photos Sher! I wanna go to Copenhagen so bad this summer!!

Aw thanks Dave! Go!! It was one of my favorite cities to date :)

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I have no idea why I haven’t visit Copenhagen yet. Those pictures look unreal. WOW.

Thanks Darryl! Get on itttt :)

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Your photos are beautiful and this article is so informative. What places might you recommend in Copenhagen for first time visitors with small children like myself. My little ones are 1 and 4 years old. I should also add, we’re not long distance walkers.

Hey Nkele – thanks! I’ll caveat this by saying I don’t have kids but I think they would LOVE Tivoli. It’s got amusement park rides, is beautiful and tons of food! Enough for both adults and kids to enjoy :)

So many beautiful photos! I can’t believe how stunningly beautiful Copenhagen is…and its castles, just wow! I need to force my husband that we go there asap!

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15 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen

By Mary Holland and Jenna Scatena

Whether you’ve spent months designing a carefully crafted itinerary or just arrived on an impromptu trip, you’ll find plenty to convince you to stay in Copenhagen just a little longer. From immersive, local-led canal tours to lush urban gardens, and even floating hot tubs that sail the city's famed canals, there's no shortage of entertainment in here. We did the hard part for you, and crafted a list of our favorite things to do in the capital. Whether you want to spend all day outside, or cozy up indoors, read on for our picks for what to do the next time you're in Copenhagen.

Click the link to read our complete Copenhagen city guide .

Rosenborg Castle Arrow

This castle dates to 1606 when it was built as a royal summer house by one of the most famous Scandinavian kings, Christian IV. Now it offers a glimpse into Copenhagen’s regal history, like a time capsule filled with treasures and works of art. Spend an hour or two here, walking the halls as Danish royalty once did. Don't miss the Knights' Hall with its coronation thrones. You'll also find the king’s private writing cabinet, living areas, and bathroom. There's also an impressive Venetian glass collection. 

CopenHot Arrow

CopenHot is an al fresco spa ... sort of. There aren’t any massages here, but what it lacks in pampering it makes up for in coolness. Perched right on the water in the industrial-hip Nordhavn neighborhood, a cluster of wooden hot tubs and saunas overlook the water. Tubs can be rented for a group, or you can come to one of their open days. To warm up and chill out, you have several options. Barrel-wood hot tubs are filled with clean, mineral-rich saltwater and heated from below by a fire (note the dude chopping firewood on-site). The coveted sailing spas fit five people in a floating hot tub that navigate the canals. And panoramic saunas overlook the harbor.

Alchemist Arrow

The Alchemist, a bucket-list dining destination, gears its menu around some 47 intricate, creative courses. While you may not like all of them—how could you?—you will either be challenged or pleasantly surprised. As such, this isn't the kind of place for a casual meal with the kids. On the contrary, it's where you come when you've saved up for months so you can celebrate a truly special occasion.

CopenHill Arrow

Designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, CopenHill is a multi-use waste-to-energy plant. Why would anyone possibly want to visit a waste-to-energy plant? Well, the building—a real architectural marvel that's worth seeing—has a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. Even if you have no interest in skiing down the 1,300-foot slope, you'll certainly be interested in seeing the action. At the very least, swing by the cafe for an apres-ski beer.

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Meaghan Kenny

National Museum of Denmark Arrow

Denmark’s largest museum is a stunning display of cultural history, both Danish and foreign. Located in the 18th-century Prince’s Palace, exhibits stretch back in time to the Stone Age and Viking Age, and up through modern Danish history. People from across Denmark and around the globe visit this world-class museum. Prepare for thick crowds, especially during high season. Tip: Get there early, and go on a weekday, if you can.

Refshaleøen Arrow

Refshaleøen has some of the best restaurants in the city ([Noma](https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/copenhagen/noma), the [Alchemist](https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/copenhagen/alchemist), [Amass](https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/copenhagen/amass)) as well as some lesser-known favorites (Lille Bakery, La Banchina). For those who aren't that into food, the island is also home to CopenHill , where you can try your hand at skiing. The area is fairly spread out, but once you get to the island, there's a bus that lolls around, making it a no-brainer for anyone looking to try some of Copenhagen's best food.

Hey Captain Arrow

A canal boat might sound like a generic tourist activity, but Hey Captain offers a fun, intimate look at the city and a window into daily Danish life. That's especially the case in summer, when locals laze on the docks and dive into the refreshing harbor water. Each boat has one guide and 12 guests, max, keeping the experience intimate and personal. The guides have extensive knowledge on the city, its history, and its architecture. They're also hired for their personalities—the mood is light and enjoyable.

Botanical Garden Arrow

Copenhagen’s botanical gardens are a green oasis in the center of Denmark’s capital. It's got the largest Danish collection of living flora, including more than 13,000 plant species spread over ten hectares and housed in a complex of historic 19th-century greenhouses. The best way to approach a visit here is to prioritize what is in season. While you’re there, be sure to swing past the SMK (National Gallery of Denmark), the country’s largest art museum.

Cisternerne Arrow

As an extension of Copenhagen’s Frederiksberg Museums, the Cisternerne operates as a venue for exhibitions and events—but it’s the space itself that is the permanent exhibit and primary attraction. Once a subterranean reservoir filled with 16 million liters of water, the cistern has been filled by an unconventional museum. The cryptic underground cave—the only dripstone cave in Denmark—is a gloomy labyrinth filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Tivoli Gardens Arrow

This famous amusement park combines manicured gardens and roller coasters in central Copenhagen, and has been attracting visitors since the 19th century, making it the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. Visit at night when thousands of twinkling lights make it feel pulled from a fairytale. And not surprisingly it inspired the likes of Hans Christian Andersen and Walt Disney, who both visited. Be sure to grab lunch or dinner at the restaurant Gemyse, where plant-forward dishes are served inside a greenhouse and a large, lofty dining room.

Nyhavn Arrow

Nyhavn, a 17th-century harbor, is easily the most iconic landmark in Copenhagen. Lined with wooden ships, modern boats, multicolored townhouses, and seafood restaurants, this port is a must-see, and its storied quay is perpetually bustling with locals and visitors. This landmark a public space, so it’s easy to come and go as you please. Nyhavn attracts a crowd as diverse as its history. Over the bridge in the neighboring hood of Christianshavn, you’ll also find some of the oldest houses in Copenhagen. Stop for a coffee and pastry at 108 before exploring one of the oldest parts of the city.

Bike on Copenhagen's New Bridges Arrow

Copenhagen is a marvelous city to see by bike. Grab a coffee from Prolog before heading south along the Cykelslangen (bike snake), which leads to the other side of the harbor. Bike onto Olafur Eliasson’s Circle Bridge, then ride back over the harbor on the new Lille Langebro bridge. Continue along the water to Nyhavn before riding back over the harbor along the Inderhavnsbroen, AKA the Kissing Bridge. In Christianshavn, you'll bike past the old Noma space and Restaurant 108—grab a pastry on the way—and over the Butterfly Bridge.

Jægersborggade Arrow

Jaegersborggade, a cobbled street fringed with colorful buildings, has a slew of great restaurants, bars, and shops. Even though the stretch isn't terribly long, it's the type of place where you easily could spend an entire day. Have a pastry at Meyers Bageri, a coffee at Coffee Collective, lunch at Manfreds, a beer at Mikkeller & Friends, and dinner at Relae. Or, just spend $5 on a coffee and enjoy the browsing, strolling, and people-watching.

Assistens Cemetery Arrow

This famous cemetery is smack in the middle of Copenhagen’s hip Nørrebro district and doubles as a public park that people actually hang out at—and even sunbathe in. Pathways meander through gardens, meadows, and woods punctuated with tombstones of famous Danes. It’s very Nordic noir. Wander the grounds looking for familiar names on headstones, or simply appreciate the park for its lush natural beauty, peaceful gardens, and art sculptures.

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Copenhagen Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

But modern Copenhagen is not a city steeped in the past. The town’s classic architecture and canals are juxtaposed by great infrastructure, new buildings, and a high-tech transit system.

It’s one of my favorite cities in the world.

I’ve been here a dozen times and never get tired of my visits. The city is beautiful, clean, green, and the locals are always fun to hang out with. There is a spirit and vibe that screams “life is good here.” It’s infectious and will have you wondering why more places aren’t like this.

Denmark is constantly voted as one of the best and happiest countries in the world and, after visiting Copenhagen, it’s easy to see why. The quality of life here is incredible.

Use this travel guide to Copenhagen to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Copenhagen

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. Explore Freetown Christiania

This intentional community/would-be micronation has been around since the 1970s. Most people come to hang out and smoke the weed openly sold here (though in recent years, the locals have pushed out the drug dealers, decreasing drug sales by around 75%). There are also several small shops as well as two breweries here. The community is one of the biggest draws in the country and welcomes 500,000 visitors each year. Come for the cool beer gardens, people-watching, and colorful murals. Photography is discouraged by the locals though.

2. Cycle around the city

Renting a bike is the easiest way to explore the city — it’s how the locals travel. In fact, there are more bikes in the city than people (and five times as many bikes than cars!). Bikes can be rented all around the city, with prices per hour (25 DKK) or per day (around 120 DKK). For guided bike tours, expect to pay 350 DKK. Most tours last 2-3 hours and include all the main highlights.

3. Take a boat tour

The canals and harbor of Copenhagen are very beautiful (and super clean. You can actually see the bottom of the canals). Hour-long boat tours leave from Nyhavn and, while “touristy,” you will find a surprising number of locals on them drinking a beer on a sunny day. Tours range from 99-200 DKK per person.

4. Have fun at Tivoli

Opened in 1843, Tivoli is an amusement park in the center of the city. While it may not be the most popular place for everyday travelers, I had a blast here, especially playing bumper cars with my friends and drinking beer. Complete with a Ferris wheel, games, roller coasters, and a concert hall, this is an awesome place to spend an afternoon. Avoid the weekend and school holidays when the place is overflowing with families. Weekday admission is 145 DKK and weekends cost 155 DKK.

5. Hang out in Nørrebro

This is one of the city’s coolest areas. Trendy bars and shops sit right next to dive bars and cheap kebab shops, so spend some time strolling the streets and taking in the eclectic sights. Grab a cocktail at The Barking Dog, or check out the music venues/nightclub Rust.

Other Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. see the christiansborg palace ruins.

Christiansborg Palace is the home of Denmark’s parliament and the Prime Minister’s office. Located underneath the parliamentary palace are the ruins of Bishop Absalon’s fortress, which dates back to 1167. It’s dark and damp down there, giving it a very crypt-like and ancient feel. I was really impressed with the detailed information provided about the fortress and its evolution to its current palace form. Admission is 165 DKK, however, it’s free with the Copenhagen Card.

2. Visit Round Tower

Rundetaarn (The Round Tower) is a 17th-century tower that was built as an observatory. It’s actually the oldest functioning observatory in Europe. And through a long, tiring walk to the top, it provides a sweeping view of the old part of Copenhagen. The stairs are actually equestrian stairs, which means they are built in such a way that horses and mules can navigate them (probably to bring up equipment to the top). Admission is 40 DKK.

3. See the Church of Our Saviour

Located near Christiania, this church is worth seeing for its giant spiraling bell tower. The interior of the church is rather ordinary and features a few interesting paintings, but the winding tower is what makes it worthwhile. It has always been regarded as something of a test of manhood to climb up and touch the globe on the summit, nearly 350 feet up in the air. The view from the top is worth the effort. Admission is 65 DKK.

4. Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Experience

Hans Christian Andersen is the famous author of numerous classic children’s stories, including The Little Mermaid, The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling, and more. While this place is designed for children and features Disney-like displays and sets, I really enjoyed it. Inside, you learn about his life and can read all of Andersen’s tales, which were a lot shorter and darker than I had thought. It was quite an eye-opener — Disney lied to me all these years! Admission is 155 DKK for adults and 100 DKK for children.

5. See the National Museum

Established in 1807, this museum covers over 14,000 years of history in Denmark, from the Ice Age and the Vikings all the way to the present. There are all kinds of cool artifacts from the Viking era and lots of neat historical tidbits. Exhibitions cover prehistory, the Middle Ages and Renaissance, coins and metals, indigenous art, ancient Greece and Rome, and more. The museum has rotating temporary exhibitions as well. Admission is 110 DKK.

6. Explore the Danish National Gallery

The Danish National Gallery has an incredible collection of art from the likes of Rembrandt, Picasso, Matisse, and other masters. There are over 9,000 paintings in their collection and several hundred thousand other works. Established in 1896, there are also a number of paintings by Danish artists from the “Golden Age” (1800-1850). Some 40,000 items from the collection are available online in their virtual museum as well. Admission is 120 DKK and free for anyone under 18.

7. Experience the nightlife

Copenhagen has a variety of pubs, lounges, and clubs. This city doesn’t start pumping until about 1am and goes very late. I would try to spend at least one night out. For nightclubs, check out Culture Box, which has three different rooms playing separate genres of music to dance to. If dancing isn’t your thing and you’d much rather sip some delicious drinks, try K-Bar, Lidkoeb, and Gensyn Bar. Just be prepared to splurge as alcohol isn’t cheap here!

8. See the Little Mermaid

A homage to one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved characters, this bronze statue may be small, but it’s worth taking the time to see. Expect there to be a crowd — it’s a popular attraction! Also, don’t miss the nearby Gefion Fountain. It features a sculpture of the Norse goddess Gefion (goddess of unmarried women) plowing the land with oxen (Norse mythology states that she created the land that is Denmark after plowing it with her oxen).

9. Relax in Kastellet Park

Kastellet fortress was built in 1664 to guard the city. It’s one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. The citadel was built in a pentagon and is still an active military installation. Inside there were numerous barracks as well as a windmill, church, and other outbuildings. Today, it’s a public park and cultural monument. The park has relaxing gardens, plenty of trees, and tranquil ponds surrounding it. It’s a popular spot for locals to walk and jog as you can also walk along the ramparts. It’s right near the Little Mermaid and is a wonderful place to relax on a warm day with a book and a picnic.

10. Shop at a flea market

In the summer months, there are numerous flea markets around the city that are perfect for browsing. Many are open just on the weekends and offer an assortment of odds and ends. Nørrebro Flea Market is Denmark’s longest and narrowest, stretching 333 meters (1,092 feet) near Assistens Cemetery on Nørrebrogade. Other markets worth checking out are Frederiksberg Loppemarked, Gentofte Loppemarked, and Ritas Blå Lopper.

11. Day trip to Malmö

For a day trip, consider visiting Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city. It’s under an hour away and you can spend some time strolling around the historic city center. You’ll also get to cross the famous Øresund bridge, a landmark made famous by the hit Scandinavian crime drama The Bridge ( Broen in Danish). Don’t miss the Stortorget market (which is over 500 years old) and Malmö Castle.

12. Explore Roskilde

Known as the ancient city of Denmark, Roskilde was Denmark’s capital from 960 to 1536. Located just 40 minutes from the city by car (30 minutes by train), this is an amazing city to view the country’s history, whether it be the 12th century Roskilde Domkirke cathedral; Sankt Laurentius, the 16th-century bell tower, or the Viking Ship Museum, which has five original Viking longships on display. It plays host to Europe’s largest music festival every June and the Roskilde Cathedral is the most famous in the country as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

13. Relax at the botanical gardens

These gardens span over 24 acres right in the middle of the city. The greenhouses date back to the 1870s and are home to over 13,000 plants and flowers (some of which are over 200 years old). Don’t miss the Arctic “greenhouse” which uses air conditioning to simulate conditions in the arctic so its arctic plants can thrive. There’s also a butterfly house with hundreds of butterflies you can visit. Admission to the gardens is free, while some of the buildings cost 40-60 DKK to access (free with the Copenhagen Card).

14. Visit Rosenborg Castle

This Renaissance castle was built by Christian IV at the start of the 17th century. The palace was the official royal residence until 1710 and has all kinds of royal artifacts on display, such as the Danish crown, the crown jewels, three life-sized lion statues, and the coronation throne. The interior is incredibly lavish with all kinds of ornate designs, murals, tapestries, and art. It has a very over-the-top feel similar to places like Versailles in France. Admission is 125 DKK and free with the Copenhagen Card.

15. Take a canal tour

One of the best ways to take in the city is by boat. Cruise around the city’s canals and learn about Copenhagen’s past and the important role the canals played in its development. Most include stops at Copenhagen’s main sights, including The Copenhagen Opera House, Christiansborg Palace, and the Little Mermaid. Tours cost around 100 DKK and are free with the Copenhagen Card.

  For more information on other destinations in Denmark, check out these city guides:

• Aarhus Travel Guide

Copenhagen Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms with 6-8 beds cost around 200 DKK per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities if you want to cook your own food. Only a couple of hostels include free breakfast so be sure to book those hostels in advance if that’s a priority for you. Private rooms begin at 675 DKK per night.

There are several campgrounds outside of the city with prices starting at 85 DKK per night for a basic plot (a flat space for a tent, usually without electricity; there is an additional charge for these amenities).

Budget hotel prices – For a budget two-star hotel, prices start at 600 DKK per night for one person, with a twin bed and shared bathroom. For a room with a private bathroom, expect to pay at least 800 DKK. These usually include free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like a TV, AC, and a coffee/tea maker.

Airbnb is available but expensive when not booked early. Expect to pay an average of 500-800 DKK per night for a private room (though if you book early you can find them for 350 DKK), while entire homes/apartments cost around 800-1,000 DKK (they average double that price, however, so be sure to book early).

Food – Danish cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood. Cod, herring, and beef are never far from any meal. Dark bread and open-faced sandwiches ( smørrebrød ) are a staple for both breakfast and lunch. Liverpaste is a local favorite, as is shrimp on bread. Most traditional dinner meals revolve around meat and potatoes.

A meal out at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 125 DKK. Cheap sandwich shops cost 90 DKK while a fast food combo (think McDonald’s) is around 85 DKK. For a three-course meal and a drink, expect to pay at least 350 DKK.

Chinese food and Thai food can be found for as little as 80 DKK while Italian cuisine ranges from 110-140 DKK. A large pizza costs around 75 DKK.

Beer is 50 DKK while a cappuccino/latte is around 42 DKK. Bottled water is 20 DKK.

If you are going to cook your own food, expect to pay around 400-500 DKK per week for basic staples like vegetables, pasta, rice, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Denmark Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 500 DKK per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm or camp, cook all of your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying the parks. If you want to drink more, add another 100-200 DKK per day.

On a mid-range budget of 1,275 DKK per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple of drinks here and there, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting museums and castles and going on a canal tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,300 DKK or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, do as many activities as you’d like, and take taxis (or rent a car) to get around. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in DKK.

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Copenhagen is an expensive city in an expensive country. You’ll spend a lot here if you aren’t careful. If you find cheap accommodation, stick to happy hours, and cook your meals, you’ll be able to cut your costs a lot without limiting too much of what you do in the city. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Copenhagen:

• Get the Copenhagen Card – If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and visit a lot of attractions then I highly recommend you get the Copenhagen Card. It offers discounts and free admission to museums and attractions and includes free transportation. Cards are offered for 24 hours (438 DKK), 48 hours (655 DKK), 72 hours ( 803 DKK), 96 hours (930 DKK), and 120 hours (1,050 DKK).
• Take a free walking tour – One of my favorite ways to start a trip is with a free walking tour. You get to see all the main sites while chatting with an expert local guide. Copenhagen Free Walking Tours offers a comprehensive free tour that serves as an excellent intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Refill your water bottle – The water in Denmark is safe to drink and is held to very high standards. Skip buying bottled water here and refill your bottle instead. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can always be sure your water is clean and safe.
• Eat on the street – Street stalls sell hot dogs and sausages for cheap. To eat on a budget, stick to them.
• Get a Hostelling International card – Danhostel.dk is the national accredited Hostelling International network. They operate 60+ hotels throughout the country so you’ll want to get an HI card if you plan on staying at their hostels during your stay. If purchased in Denmark, HI cards are 160 DKK.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Copenhagen is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts. This way, you not only have a place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Cook your food – Eating out in Copenhagen is not cheap, and since Danish food isn’t going to win any great culinary awards, you won’t miss much by cooking your own food. If you must eat out, do so during lunch when specials and buffet deals make restaurants reasonably priced.
• Book in advance – When leaving the city, book your train and bus tickets a month in advance to save you up to 50%.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a lot of hostels. They’re all pretty comfortable and sociable. These are my recommended places to stay in the city:

• Urban House Copenhagen
• Woodah Boutique Hostel
• a&o Copenhagen Sydhavn
• Steel House Copenhagen
• Urban Camper Copenhagen

How to Get Around Copenhagen

Public transportation – In Copenhagen, the Rejsekort ticket system provides access to the metro, bus, and train. Ticket prices are based on different zones with a two-zone ticket costing 24 DKK.

Timed tickets are also available, offering unlimited travel for set periods. They cost 80 DKK for 24 hours, 150 DKK for 48 hours, and 200 DKK for 72 hours. But if you purchase the Copenhagen Card (city tourism card), public transportation is free.

A ticket from downtown Copenhagen to the airport is 36 DKK each way.

Taxi – Taxis are expensive and should be avoided. Rates start at 89 DKK and go up 15 DKK per kilometer. There are no rideshares here like Uber and Lyft so taxis are your only option in a pinch. I suggest avoiding them as much as possible since they are pricey!

Bicycle – Renting a bike is the easiest way to explore the city. Bikes can be rented all around the city, costing 120 DKK per day. Helmets are not included and cost 40 DKK extra. Bycyklen (the city’s bike-share program) costs 1 DKK per minute and has over 130 stations around the city. Other companies are Copenhagen Bicycle and Baisikeli, which both offer rentals.

Car rental – You don’t need a car to get around the city, however, they can be helpful for exploring the region (though public transportation can pretty much get you everywhere). You can find rentals for as little as 130 DKK per day. To rent a car in Denmark, you need to be 19 and have had your license for at least one year.

When to Go to Copenhagen

Since Copenhagen is a coastal town, its temperature is heavily influenced by the sea. The city has mild summers and cold winters, with lots of daylight hours in the summer and significantly less in the winter.

Winters average around 0°C (32°F), so dress accordingly. Sunset is around 3pm, so pack in as many outdoor activities as you can during the day if you plan on going then! There won’t be nearly as many people visiting during the winter and prices are lower.

In contrast, summers in Copenhagen are beautiful, with highs in July and August around 22°C (72°F) and the sun doesn’t set until 9pm. July and August are the most popular months to visit so expect higher prices and larger crowds. But the city is at its liveliest and there are lots of summer events and festivals happening.

Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit if you want to beat the crowds and save money since most accommodation is a little cheaper (and less busy). Spring sees cooler temperatures, settling around 16°C (61°F) in May, and in autumn, Copenhagen is cool, cloudy, and sometimes rainy so bring a jacket.

How to Stay Safe in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a safe place to backpack and travel. Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world so violent incidents are rare. Your only real concern is petty theft but even that is super rare. Just keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There’s numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

While cannabis used to be openly sold in Freetown Christiania, ever since a shooting in 2016 the trade has been more or less forced out of sight. Avoid buying drugs here and make sure you do not take photos of anyone using or selling drugs either.

If you plan on cycling through the city, be sure to wear a helmet and always lock your bike so it does not get stolen.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Copenhagen Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

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Copenhagen Travel Guide Tips: Best Things to Do and See

Maritime flair , hip cafés and Scandinavian cosiness – welcome to Copenhagen! Copenhagen really is a great city for a getaway. The city has a simple charm and is not repeatedly named as being one of the most liveable cities in the world for nothing.

We have been guests in the Danish capital city several times now – and each time we fall a little more in love with Copenhagen. It’s about time we put together our personal Copenhagen tips for you on our travel blog. So it follows: Our big Copenhagen travel guide with all the highlights, our favourite spots and personal travel tips.

1. City trip to Copenhagen: Overview of initial travel tips & info

2. copenhagen travel guide: best things to do and see, 3. day trip tips for copenhagen, 4. eating and drinking: tips for restaurants & cafés in copenhagen, 5. our hotel tip for copenhagen.

Copenhagen seems to be the perfect combination of everything we love in a city: Lots of water, plenty of greenery, imposing buildings and a cosy atmosphere. There is even a name for it in Denmark: Hygge . Copenhagen is beautifully hygge.

What else do you need to know about Copenhagen? We have gathered the most important points for you:

• Copenhagen is located by the sea . This gives the Scandinavian city a maritime flair, that is also reflected in the cuisine, for example.
• Unfortunately, Copenhagen is quite expensive . This starts with the accommodation prices and carries on to the restaurants. So it’s best to allow a little more budget for your city trip.
• People love cycling in Copenhagen. The city is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in Europe. If you like, you can hire a bike when you’re there to explore the city.
• The weather in Copenhagen can be quite variable. Generally, we recommend summer as the best travel time (June to August). Although the temperatures are pleasantly mild during that time, it is hardly ever gets properly hot.

How many days should I spend in Copenhagen?

We recommend all those who are new to Copenhagen to plan to stay at least three nights . The city is not gigantic, so you can easily explore the main attractions and corners in Copenhagen during this time.

Of course, more time is always good. So, if you would prefer to have a relaxing stay then feel free to stay longer. Copenhagen will also definitely not get boring if you stay 4 or 5 nights – that way it also allows time for some day trips. (Of course, we reveal our tips further down in this travel guide.)

Nyhavn: THE postcard motif in Copenhagen

What is the best way to start a trip to the city of Copenhagen? Our suggestion: With a stroll through Nyhavn (in English: “New Port”). With its colourful, crooked houses , Nyhavn is quite rightfully Copenhagen’s most popular photo motif.

Nyhavn is anything but a secret. Or (to put it in other words): The area is the most touristy spot in Copenhagen. They try to entice you into boat tours, or a restaurant visit on every corner. But if you move slightly out of the hustle and bustle, then you can enjoy Nyhavn in a more relaxed manner. Our tip for anyone who wants to experience Nyhavn in peace: Come in the morning!

The Little Mermaid: Copenhagen’s landmark

Surprisingly small & a little unspectacular – this is the initial impression of many people who stand before the little mermaid for the first time. The little mermaid really lives up to her name. At around 125cm high, she is one of the smallest landmarks in the world.

The bronze statue at Copenhagen’s port exudes a calm presence despite all the crowds, which fascinated us in a strange way. She sits just a few metres from the shore on a rock. The little mermaid was built based on the fairytale of the same name by the most famous Danish author, Hans Christian Anderson .

Tip #1 : You can quite easily walk from Nyhavn to the little mermaid. The stroll along the shore is really nice and highly recommended. (You also pass by the Amalienborg palace – more about this soon.)

Tip #2 : Very close by the little mermaid are St. Alban’s Church and Copenhagen Castle. Definitely take a walk through – this fortress with its pretty windmill is an oasis of calm. Entrance is free.

Castles in Copenhagen

As hip and modern as Copenhagen can be – the royal flair is difficult to miss. There are some castles and palaces in Copenhagen that are well worth a visit. The following three castle are the most well-known in Copenhagen:

• Amalienborg Palace: This is where Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II lives. You can tell if she’s home by the Danish flag waving on the roof. Then at midday they also have the changing of the guard – one spectacle that you shouldn’t miss if you’re there.
• Rosenborg Castle: This castle is one of the most beautiful sights in Copenhagen. You can find it on the edge of a lovely, landscaped garden. There are several state rooms to admire inside the castle. The Rosenborg Castle is also well worth viewing just from the outside.
• Christiansborg Palace: All good things come in threes. You can find Christiansborg Palace right in the middle of the city centre. Today it is the seat of the Danish Parliament. Just like the other two, you can also view the castle interior.

Our tip : Entry into all three castles is free when you have the Copenhagen Card. So if you are interested in these attractions, purchasing the Copenhagen Card could be worth it.

Frederik’s Church

When standing in front of Amalienborg Palace, Frederik’s Church is hard to miss. Frederik’s Church, with its imposing dome, is one of the most important sacred buildings in Copenhagen. It is also known by the name, the Marbel Church .

You should definitely take a peek inside the church. The architecture is very impressive. Entrance into the church is free. There is only a small admission fee to climb the dome.

Torvehallerne

We present: One of our absolute favourite places in all of Copenhagen and our tip number one for all the foodies. Here in this covered, architecturally beautiful market hall you can purchase fresh food and Danish delicacies. It is very relaxed and stylish here – so don’t expect to find a hectic market.

The best part: There are also a lot of stalls in Torvehallerne where you can either directly enjoy dishes or take them to go. Our tip: Laura’s Bakery has incredible cinnamon rolls. GRØD is popular for breakfast and the Coffee Collective has great coffee.

Christiania

Strange but true: In Copenhagen there is a self-proclaimed free state called Christiania. In the 70s hippies settled on this former military land. Today it is supposedly the largest commune in the world.

But what can you expect in Christiania? To be honest: A very unusual flair with a slightly depressing mood . Yes, Christiania is colourful and quirky where you will find great street art and creative houses. But somehow, we haven’t been able to shake this rather strange feeling on all our visits (there have been several).

The centre of Christiania is Pusher Street. This is where drug dealing takes place on the street. Taking photos along Pusher Street is strictly forbidden. (You should absolutely adhere to this!) But otherwise, you don’t need to worry about safety and you can visit Christiania without any problems.

The Round Tower (Rundetårn)

You shouldn’t leave Copenhagen without seeing the city from above. One of the most famous viewing points in Copenhagen is the Rundetårn (Round Tower in English), which is located right in the city centre.

The architecture is what makes the tower so special: Not a small staircase but a wide, spiral ramp (also said to have been used by horse-drawn carriages once upon a time) takes you up to the top. (Important to know: At the end there is still a small ladder to climb. So, the tower is not without its barriers.)

After the unusual ascent (which is especially a highlight for architecture fans), a really beautiful view over Copenhagen awaits you in all directions. The wrought iron railing makes it easy to take photos through.

Entrance: 40 DKK (free with the Copenhagen Card ) Opening times & more info: Rundetårn (official website)

Assistens Cemetery

A rather unusual attraction in Copenhagen is located north of the city, more precisely in the Nørrebro district. Assistens Cemetery (called “Assistens Kirkegård” in Danish) is the most well-known cemetery in Copenhagen. There are countless famous people buried here, including for example the author Hans Christian Andersen or the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard.

Here you can find not only a cemetery, but also quite an extensive park . The locals use the cemetery park for long walks or jogging. So, if you would like to spend some time out in the greenery, then we can highly recommend a visit to Assistens Cemetery.  

Day trip to Sweden: One day in Malmö

Sit down in the train – and bam, a good 30 minutes later you’re in a different country . The thought that Sweden is only a hop and a skip away from Copenhagen couldn’t escape us, so we decided on taking a wee trip to Malmö.

Getting there from Copenhagen

Just the trip from Copenhagen to Malmö is something special in itself: Here you cross the legendary Øresund Bridge , which connects Denmark and Sweden with each other.

We ourselves took the train , but it is also possible to take a bus. The train ride from Copenhagen Train Station takes around 40 minutes and costs about 13 euros (one-way). The train station in Malmö is centrally located, so you can simply start exploring the city on foot.

Attractions in Malmö

It is best to start your day trip in Malmö’s pretty old town, called Gamla Staden . The old town is a picturesque mix of colourful houses, brick buildings and paved alleyways. Places worth seeing include Lilla Tor or the Stortorget.

In the west of the old town lies the second main attraction in Malmö: the castle (Malmöhus) with its two surrounding parks ( Slottsträdgården and Kungsparken ). An oasis of peace, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll.

It is not very far from the castle to the most well-known market in Malmö, Malmö Saluhall . Here you can buy fresh food in this very stylish and calm market hall as well as sit down in one of the small restaurants and cafés they have there.

In case you still have time you could, for example, make a stopover at the futuristic city library , or take a detour to Västra Hamnen . Here a modern and innovative district was developed at a former shipping yard site. Västra Hamnen is said to be climate neutral and one of the most exclusive residential areas in Malmö. You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or taste your way around the great cafés.

Day trip to the beach

Lonely dunes & the sound of waves – how does that sound? If you are drawn to nature, then we can highly recommend this trip to the beach. There are many beaches close to Copenhagen which you can visit. Important to know: It is very rarely properly hot in Denmark – so if you want to jump in, it may take some convincing.

Beach tips close to Copenhagen

• Amager Strandpark: The largest and most well-known beach around Copenhagen is located in this protected local recreation area. You can reach the beach from the city centre on the subway. In summer it can be quite crowded.
• Ishøy Beach: This beach is more peaceful and natural. Perfect for a bit of that Baltic Sea feeling.

The good news first: Copenhagen is a paradise for foodies ! Here they have an incredible amount of hip eateries, and you can – if you like – spend the whole day feasting your way from one café to the next.

The bad news: The prices are not very cheap. For an ordinary restaurant, you will need to allow for around 15 to 20 euro for a main meal. That’s not ideal and you could easily spend around 60 to 80 euros for a dinner for two people.

The following two specialties are typical Danish food and found all over Copenhagen:

• Smørrebrød: Which sounds fancy, is really ‘just’ rye bread. But there are no limits to creativity when it comes to the choice of ingredients.
• Hot Dog: Of course, how could it be any other way? Danish hot dogs are sold at small stalls around the streets of Copenhagen. Luckily, there are now more and more vegetarian hot dogs, e.g. as found at DØP.

Favourite culinary spots in Copenhagen

Reffen: This great street food market takes place at a former shipping yard area. Here in the colourful containers, you can try delicious food from all over the world. From tacos to Smørrebrød, from Hawaii to Nepal, whether meat or vegan – there is really something for everyone. Highly recommended!

Paludan Bog & Café: Eating breakfast between the books! In café Paludan you are seated in the middle of a bookstore. We can recommend a visit just for the unusual location alone. They have breakfast, lunch dishes and a whole range of cakes and slices. The prices are moderate by Danish standards. 

Mother: This very (!) hyped up restaurant serves what is said to be the best pizza in Copenhagen. Whether that is true, we cannot say, but we definitely enjoyed it. Important: The wait times are especially long during the weekend. It is best to reserve a table!

GRØD: Grød translated means porridge and this café specializes in exactly that. Here you can put together your favourite porridge yourself with a wide variety of toppings. There are now many locations in Copenhagen – including the Torvehallerne. A really great tip for a healthy and not to expensive breakfast or lunch meal.  

Vaekst: Young Scandinavian cooking of the highest quality in a really cool location – if that is what you are searching for, then get yourself to Vaekst. They serve a three-course meal here every evening. The restaurant is highly praised for its vegetarian version of the menu. Here you are seated in a kind of greenhouse – pretty cool.

Flottenheimer: Do you want to enjoy a simple lunch in the city centre? Then we recommend this cosy café. They have international dishes on the menu, such as burgers and sandwiches.

Are you looking for a great boutique hotel for your city trip to Copenhagen? Then we can only warmly recommend Hotel Skt Petri .

The rooms are elegant and very comfortably arranged with a very comfortable bed. Small tip: Make sure that you don’t choose a room with a window on the inside. This can be clearly seen in the description.

The hotel location could hardly be any better for a city trip to Copenhagen. You are situated right in the centre and many sights are within walking distance (such as Nyhavn, the Rundetårn or the Torvehallerne).

Our conclusion: The range of affordable, yet stylish boutique hotels in Copenhagen is unfortunately limited. However, Hotel Skt Petri is really an exception and highly recommendable.

You can book the hotel here: Hotel Skt Petri

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

We are curious: Have you already been to Copenhagen? How did you like the city? Do you have some additional tips for Copenhagen? We really look forward to hearing about your experiences in the comments.

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A complete guide to Copenhagen, Denmark

Updated On 8th March, 2024

Cycling along the canal, enjoying hygge with friends and indulging in all the Danish culture at the museums and castles are just a few reasons to visit Copenhagen. On top of that,  Denmark  is consistently rated as one of the happiest countries in the world! If you’re considering visiting  Denmark’s  capital, this Copenhagen travel guide will tell you everything you need to know before you plan your adventure! If you’re looking for the best things to do in Copenhagen, the best places to visit in Copenhagen, and what to see in Copenhagen, keep reading!

I last visited Copenhagen on a cruise, where I saw 6 cities in 7 days:  Copenhagen ,  Helsinki ,  Stockholm ,  Oslo ,  Tallinn ,  St. Petersburg . It was an incredible adventure, and I learned and saw so much in each of these unique but nearby cities.

Not only is Copenhagen beautiful in summer, but it’s also great to explore when you’re wrapped up warm. I explored Copenhagen for a girly winter weekend, where we wrapped up warm and saw the sights, including the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, Rosenborg Castle and more.  See my winter guide to Copenhagen here.

I’ve put together my knowledge, tips and tricks from these trips into the ultimate Copenhagen travel guide, ready for your next Danish adventure! Let’s get planning!

There are also lots of things to do in Copenhagen if you’re travelling on a budget!  Check out my favourite free things to do in Copenhagen here. 

Other blog posts you might be interested in…

• The best things to do in Denmark
• My guide to Copenhagen in winter
• How to save money on your Copenhagen city break
• The best free things to do in Copenhagen
• Top tips for travelling on a budget
• 21 cheap places to visit in Europe
• 30 places to travel on a budget
• A 2-week road trip in Norway
• A complete guide to Stockholm
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• The best things to do in Europe: the ultimate Europe bucket list m

EXPLORE DENMARK ON MY BLOG HERE

A Copenhagen guide: everything you need to know about Denmark’s capital…

How do you get to Copenhagen?

Getting to copenhagen by plane:.

Flying from London to Copenhagen (CPH) takes just an hour and a half. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. A return flight can cost as little at £20 if you are able to be flexible on dates, so it’s a perfect candidate for a short trip or weekend away for anyone on any budget!

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out  how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here!

Getting from Copenhagen airport to the city centre…

You have a few options:

• Bus:  There are several bus lines running between Copenhagen city centre and Copenhagen Airport.  Bus 5A  runs from the airport to the city centre. Find your exact journey at  rejseplanen.dk.  
• Train:  For 36DKK you can get the train from Terminal 3, Platform 2 to Københavns Hovedbanegården (Central station). It takes about 15 minutes.
• Metro:  You can also get the metro to other areas in the city, including (but not only) Nørrebrø, Vesterbrø, Frederiksberg, and Osterbrø. Be sure to get a ticket that covers all the zones you need – probably a ‘3 zone’ ticket!
• Flixbus  and  Nettbuss  run buses from the airport through the city centre to other parts of Denmark and Sweden.

You can plan your journey to and from the airport on the  Rejseplanen website .

You can save money on travel in and around Copenhagen with a  Rejsekort card , similar to London’s oyster card!

Where’s the best place to stay in Copenhagen?

There is a wide variety of accommodation on offer in Copenhagen including hostels, hotels and apartments on Airbnb.

I stayed in the  Anderson Boutique Hotel  during my weekend trip, located a 2-minute walk from central station & walking distance from everything. Gorgeous rooms, service and the most delicious breakfast buffet.

Hostels in Copenhagen that I’ve heard good things about include…

• Woodah Boutique Hostel
• Sleep in Heaven
• Steel House Copenhagen
• Urban House by Meininger
• Danhostel Copenhagen City
• Generator Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Downtown

Check out hotel and hostel options on  booking.com here.

What’s the best way to get around Copenhagen?

• On foot:  Copenhagen is a relatively small capital city and perfectly walkable! Most of the main places to visit in Copenhagen are within a few blocks of each other.
• Rent bikes:  Copenhagen is a great city to cycle round, and there are city bikes available to use. In fact, one of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to rent a bike and explore!  Get more information about how to use the bikes  here.
• Public transport:  Public transport in Copenhagen is really easy to use, and includes buses, trains and the metro. You can get single, timed tickets to use within certain zones at reasonable prices.

If you prefer using public transport, the Cityplanner app can help you plan your journey through Copenhagen.  Check out other useful travel apps in this blog post.

With the  Copenhagen card , not only do you get free or discounted access to some of the best things to do in Copenhagen, such as museums, galleries, cruises and castle, but you also get to use public transport in Copenhagen for free!  Get your Copenhagen card  here.

Top tip: For more money saving tips for Copenhagen, check out  this post!

The best places to eat and drink in Copenhagen…

Healthy:  Joe and The Juice, 42Raw, SimpleRaw, Palao Torvehallerne.

Coffee:  The Coffee Collective, Barisso Coffee, Copenhagen Coffee Lab, Mad & Kaffe, The Living Room

Pastries:  Ole & Steen Lagkagehuset, Leckerbaer, Mirabelle, Meyers Bageri

Lunch:  Copenhagen Street Food Market, Brooklyn Bar, The Bagel Co, Wok On, Aamanns 1921, Kronborg, Selma

Dinner:  Cocks and Cows, Noma, Tivoli Gardens, The Tower @ Christiansborg Palace, Sky Bar and Restaurant, Alberto K, Sticks’n’Sushi @ Tivoli Hotel, Gro Spiseri, Høst

Party:  Hive, drinks at Nimb (only open to the public in summer)

The best things to do in Copenhagen…

1. hop on a canal tour..

Like Amsterdam there are canals running through Copenhagen. When first arriving, a canal tour is one of the best things to do in Copenhagen to get your bearings and eye up spots to explore during your stay. There is something so serene about the presence of water in a city and these canal tours allows you to see Copenhagen from a unique perspective.  See the variety of tours on offer  her e .

2. Visit Nyhavn.

The place you’ve seen on all the postcards and the image you most like already associate Copenhagen with. You’d be lying if you said you didn’t want to take a photo – so make sure you check it off early in your visit. Bear in mind that Nyhavn is more expensive than other areas of Copenhagen. Nyhavn is one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen, and well worth it, despite the prices.

If you’re travelling on a budget,  check out these free things to do in Copenhagen. 

3. Explore Copenhagen by bike.

It goes without saying that should you come to Copenhagen and the weather be anything more than mild,  you should grab a bike and explore on wheels. Bikes have their own bike lanes here in Copenhagen and you can rent a bike for just 60 DKK a day.  Check out  Copenhagen’s bike sharing scheme here.

Top tip: Exploring a city on foot or by bike is a great way to keep fit when travelling. Check out more ways to  keep fit when you’re travelling in this blog post!

4. Enjoy Danish cuisine on a guided food tour.

There are so many things to try in Copenhagen: Danish pastries (wienerbrød was my favourite!), smørrebrød (an open rye bread sandwich, typically with salmon and eggs but there are a variety of toppings), æbleskiver (mini apple stuffed pancakes), grød (fresh porridge with seasonal toppings), gløgg (mulled wine), as well as a selection of gourmet meats, cheeses and wines.

One of the top things to do in Copenhagen is to take a culinary walking tour… that way you get to see the city and enjoy the food at the same time! Starting at just 450 DKK, you can taste all the Scandinavian delights and take in the wonderful cityscape simultaneously.  Book your walking tour with Foodtours here,  or a  food and bike tour with Foods of Copenhagen here.

Get  sustainability tips for travelling in Europe in this blog post !

5. Visit Tivoli Gardens.

When I asked you guys for recommendations in Copenhagen, 90% of you included a trip to Tivoli Gardens in your response & rightly so. Tivoli Gardens is the Winter Wonderland of Copenhagen & the ultimate provider of festive vibes. This popular amusement park is located in the heart of the city centre (near central station) and it’s one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen.

Here you can have a go on Tivoli’s oldest and most popular ride – the wooden rollercoaster, one of only 7 rollercoasters in the world that has a brakeman on every train, alongside many other rides.

If ferris wheels and rollercoasters aren’t your thing, you can instead nestle between the exotic gardens for something to eat in one of the restaurants, wander around the shops or, my favourite option, grab a glass of gløgg (mulled wine). Having said that, Tivoli Gardens is also open in summer if you prefer the warmth!

6. Enjoy the street food at the markets and food halls.

Copenhagen boasts a variety of markets, some of which are just open in the summer, understandably, as they are located outside. The markets are particularly good for street food at lunch time! My favourites included Torvehallerne, Papirøen, Reffen, Løgismose, Rebel Food and WestMarket.  View the full range of markets in Copenhagen  here.

Check out my Christmas market road trip around Europe in  this blog post!

7. Visit The Little Mermaid.

This iconic danish sculpture is now over 100 years old and was a piece of art commissioned by Carl Jacobsen and created by Edvard Erikson in 1909 after Carl fell in love with the mermaid character in a ballet performance of Hans Christian Andersons fairytale – The Little Mermaid.

The mermaid is about a 15 minute walk further north of Nyhavn. There is also a bus stop besides this hotspot if you don’t fancy walking.

Get there early if you want to avoid the crowds of tourists, as it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Copenhagen! If you don’t fancy the walk, many canal tours pass the Little Mermaid so you can see her from the boat.

8. Explore Freetown Christiana.

Established in 1971, this green and car free neighbourhood has its own set of rules and is completely independent from the Danish government.

Consisting of art galleries, workshops, homemade houses, organic eateries and gorgeous nature, it’s most certainly one of the most unique places to visit in Copenhagen.

When you enter Christiana you will see a set of ‘do’s and dont’s’ which you are highly advised to follow for your own safety. It includes rules such as ‘no photos’, which is mainly due to the existence of hash dealing.

9. Enjoy a drink at the Carlsberg brewery.

A tour at the Carlsberg brewery includes a free beer (there are lots of different flavours), interactive exhibits, a look at the machines that go into the beer making process, and a look at the world’s largest collection of beer bottles.  Book your tour here.

See my  hidden gems you must visit when planning European adventure here.

10. Have dinner at a Michelin starred restaurant.

Boasting 23 stars across 16 restaurants, Copenhagen is great for fine-dining on a special occasion!

• 3 stars: Geranium
• 2 stars: AOC, Kadeau, Noma, Alchemist, Jordnær
• 1 star: 108, Kong Hans Kælder, Marchal, Clou, Relæ, Kokkeriet, Formel B, Kiin Kiin, Søllerød Kro, Alouette

Copenhagen is not one of the cheapest cities in Europe!  Check out my top tips for travelling on a budget here.

11. Enjoy the view from Christiansborg Palace Tower.

Sitting at 106 metres high, the Christiansborg Palace Tower is the highest tower in Copenhagen and boasts gorgeous views over the whole city – don’t forget your camera as it’s one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen for a view over the city! If you want to further your experience you can dine at the Tower’s restaurant.

12. Visit Rosenborg Castle

Built in the early 17th Century and located in King’s Garden, this Royal Hermitage hosts the crown jewels and sits in the most beautiful of settings. The castle and its grounds is one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen for a run, for a wander, or to satisfy the historian in you. Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Botanical Gardens and a picnic in the King’s Garden.

Other castles in Copenhagen you should visit include Frederiksborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, and Amalienbord Castle!

13. Kayak or rent a boat on the canal.

Whether you want to kayak along the canal solo or join a tour, get a different perspective of the city with  Kayak Republic ! This has got to be one of the most fun things to do in Copenhagen.

Alternatively, rent a sustainable boat from  GoBoat  and enjoy the city with the energy from the water, light and air!

Other water sports you can do in Copenhagen include  stand-up paddleboarding  and  kitesurfing !

EXPLORE ACTIVE TRAVEL ON MY BLOG HERE

14. Take a picnic to the famous Dyrehaven and watch the wild deer.

Dyrehaven is one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen if you love getting back to nature. Over 2000 deer live here, so it’s a great spot for wildlife watching, going for a run or enjoying a picnic.

Here are  12 ways to improve your travel photography!

15. Learn how to make Danish pastries in a cooking class.

One of my favourite things to do in a new city is to join a cooking class with some local people and learn how to cook something unique to that area. Copenhagen is no different, and Danish pastries are delicious!  Book your cooking class in Copenhagen here.

GET TRAVEL INSPIRATION HERE

16. Enjoy the food scene in the neighbourhood of Refshaleøen.

This creative neighbourhood is a must-see in Copenhagen for foodies! Reffen is a great food market that you cannot miss. You can also enjoy dinner with an on-site sauna at  La Banchina , explore the flea markets, and appreciate the modern art at Copenhagen Contemporary Gallery.

EXPLORE SCANDINAVIA ON MY BLOG HERE

17. Go to the Round Tower for breathtaking views across the whole city.

This is another of the best places to visit in Copenhagen for amazing city views! The Round Tower is famous because Hans Christian Andersen used to visit the library to find inspiration for his work, but now the tower is used for exhibitions of art, culture, history and science.

If you’re feeling inspired to visit Denmark after this Copenhagen guide, check out  this guide to Copenhagen in winter!

18. Wander around the neighbourhood of Værnedamsvej, Copenhagen’s ‘Little Paris’.

This area of Copenhagen is very French in style, and one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen for an afternoon. One of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to spend some time here indulging in the boutique shopping, gastronomy and cafe culture.

EXPLORE CITY BREAKS ON MY BLOG HERE

19. Explore Nørrebro.

Often described as vibrant and youthful, this district of Copenhagen reminded me a lot of  Shoreditch  in London. Sophisticated coffee shops, a quirky dress sense, walls filled with graffiti (heart of the artistic individual) and shops filled with vintage wear. Nørrebro is also a great place for international food, due to its cultural diversity. While you’re there, don’t miss the famous cobbled street of Jægersborggade, or Superkilen, the huge urban park.

You can read more about the Norrebro district and what it has to offer  here.

20. Wander through Strøget.

We couldn’t write a Copenhagen guide and miss this district. This 1km stretch of car free, pedestrian friendly street boasts a wealth of well known shops from budget friendly stores to luxury shopping experiences. Here you will be able to pick up souvenirs, grab a coffee or listen to talented street entertainers. Barisso Coffee serves a great cappuccino. If you are here and hungry, there are a few eateries on the main strip but you will need to dive off the main stretch to gain a decent selection.

21. In summer, hit the beach at Amager Strandpark.

This is one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen in summer if you’re looking to kick back and relax after a lot of sightseeing!

See my  10 dreamy spring weekends in Europe here.

22. And in winter, go ice-skating at Frederiksberg Runddel.

Entrance is free if you have your own skates, making this one of the  best things to do in Copenhagen on a budget , and if not you can rent a pair!

See my  21 cheap places to visit in Europe here

23. Go swimming outdoors at Kastrup Sea Baths.

With views of  Sweden , this outdoor swimming centre (locally known as ‘The Snail’) is great for relaxation after lots of city exploring!  Check out the website here.

See my  22 top tips for travelling in Europe here.

24. Explore the gorgeous Gråbrødretorv square.

The outdoor seating makes it a great place visit in Copenhagen in summer and enjoy a coffee or some lunch!

25. Soak up Danish culture.

Copenhagen is home to some beautiful museums, churches exhibitions and galleries, and if time allows, you should explore as many of these best places to visit in Copenhagen as you can! Favourites include…

• Unique Open Air Museum
• Gargantuan National Gallery
• Danish Museum of Design & Art
• Kunsthal Charlottenborg
• Cisternerne Odrupgaard
• Grundtvigs Church
• Bagsvaerd Church
• Federik’s Church

If this Copenhagen guide has inspired you to visit, see my top tips for planning and researching your next adventure  here.

26. Try urban mountain sports or skiing at CopenHill.

Copenhill is one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen if you love winter sports!  Check out the website here.

EXPLORE WINTER SPORTS ON MY BLOG HERE

27. Enjoy the ultimate Nordic wellness experience at CopenHot.

Hot tubs with sea water and saunas… a blissful addition to this Copenhagen guide!  Check out the website here.

Check out  this bucket list of wellness retreats around the world  if you want to travel and be kind to your body at the same time!

Day trips from Copenhagen…

If you’re looking for more things to do in Denmark after reading this Copenhagen travel guide, check out…

• Malmö and Lund in Sweden!  Explore Sweden on my blog here.
• Dragør
• Kronborg Castle
• Frederiksborg Palace
• The Cliffs of Møn
• Egeskov Castle
• Louisiana Museum of Art
• Rosklide Cathedral, and the RAGNAROCK Danish music museum/exploratorium in Rosklide!

Watch my weekend in Copenhagen come to life in this video…

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

EXPLORE EUROPE ON MY BLOG HERE

What are your favourite things to do in Copenhagen?

What hotspots would you add to this Copenhagen travel guide? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring…

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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• Weekend Guide

A Weekend in Copenhagen, The World’s Happiest City

Effortlessly cool and infinitely visitable, the Danish capital is a must on any tour of Europe.

By Kim Ayling

From the best restaurants and coolest bakeries to the chicest hotels and locals’ favorites, our Copenhagen travel guide has you covered.

There is just something about Copenhagen. From its trend-setting residents and pioneering food scene to its bountiful art museums and vast architectural delights, the Scandi city oozes an incomparable level of cool. The Danish capital’s popularity has been on a pretty steady upward trajectory, with more and more travelers drawn to what is often called ‘the happiest city on Earth.’

One of the many beauties of Copenhagen is the fact that it welcomes visitors with open arms — no matter the time of year. Summers are gorgeously mild, with long days that extend late into the evening, while winters are cold but cozy with the concept of hygge becoming a reality rather than a faraway fad.

While you will find a myriad of upmarket spots for indulging in a touch of luxury — from some of the world’s best restaurants to classic heritage hotels — a huge part of Copenhagen’s identity is its laid-back nature. Maybe it’s the tiny square footage that makes cycling everywhere a breeze or the small-scale infrastructure (no skyscrapers here), but life in the city seems slower than elsewhere on the continent. Locals are well attuned to taking the leisurely approach, but visitors will easily slip into it, too.

This level of cool is exaggerated by Copenhagen’s collective commitment to becoming one of the most sustainable destinations on the planet. The city has bold aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 with technical innovation, green transport solutions and smart waste management systems top of the list. The real key, however, is how willingly all businesses and individuals adopt the ethos. Spend a few days here and a sustainable future will feel more possible than ever.

[See also: How to Spend a Long Weekend in Prague]

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Danish dining.

Like virtually every other restaurant in the world, the incomparable Noma was forced to alter its offering a little amid the continuous lockdowns. Instead of its usual impossibly high-end, foraged set-menu affair, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant turned its attention to the humble burger and served up first-rate patties in its gardens to endless queues of Copenhageners.

While Noma has now returned to its former formal setup, the popularity of the burger pop-up prevailed, with chef René Redzepi opening a permanent burger joint under the name of Popl. Maintaining the standards of its predecessor, Popl offers the same attention to detail and ingredient provenance as the main restaurant, as well as alumni Noma servers, but with a more casual vibe. This is about the closest you’ll come to a Michelin-starred burger joint.

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poplburger.com

While the prestigious Michelin Guide has sprinkled Copenhagen with a flurry of stars, as well as a good handful of Bib Gourmands, just two restaurants hold the highest honor of three stars: Noma and Geranium (and the latter got there first). Don’t be put off by the restaurant’s location on the top floor of the National Football Stadium — the offering here is about as luxe as it gets, with a stunningly finished dining room offering views across the city and polished service.

Chef Rasmus Kofoed’s cuisine is hyper-seasonal, with a particular focus on sea-foraging. Expect a series of miniscule yet perfectly formed dishes to descend on your table throughout the evening.

geranium.dk

Kiin Kiin VeVe

Bouncing off the success of its Michelin star (which it has held since 2008), Copenhagen’s favorite Thai restaurant Kiin Kiin branched out in 2016 with the opening of VeVe — a dedicated vegetarian spot in the cool neighborhood of Østerbro. To this day it remains the only restaurant of its kind in the city. The food here is undeniably high-end, with a sophisticated six-course revolving tasting menu, but the vibe is more on the relaxed side.

In addition to the 30-cover dining room, there’s also a laid-back lounge done up in that oh-so-cool, industrial-meets-botanical style that Copenhagen seems to have perfected. Stop here for a drink before (or after) heading in for dinner.

[See also: A Luxury Guide to a Long Weekend in Florence]

Hygge Hotels

Villa Copenhagen

As the newest in Copenhagen’s roster of five-star hotels (it first opened in 2020 but, naturally, it’s been a staggered grand reveal), Villa Copenhagen is causing quite the stir. Occupying the former home of the Central Post and Telegraph Head Office, just a stone’s throw from the historic Tivoli Gardens, Villa is as stately as it is modern, with a sensitive restoration highlighting the building’s rich heritage with more than a touch of chic design prowess.

The hotel has an impressive 390 rooms, but a reservation in the uber-cool Shamballa Jewel Suite, complete with framed pieces from the Danish jeweler, promises an unforgettable stay. Don’t miss the hotel’s rooftop pool — sustainably heated with otherwise wasted energy from elsewhere in the building — or the zero-waste, brasserie-style restaurant, Kontrast.

Shamballa Jewel Suite from $2,150. Contact [email protected], +45 787 300 00, villacopenhagen.com

Nestled alongside the beautiful Tivoli Gardens, Nimb Hotel is seemingly a world away from modern Europe with its Moorish-style facade lifted straight from the pages of a storybook. A 2017 extension saw a more modern wing added to the hotel and more than doubled the room count, but it remains invitingly boutique. The extension also featured an all-new rooftop club and pool, open to members and hotel guests only.

Of the 38 rooms, the two executive suites — Suite Louise and Suite Vilhelm — are the Nimb’s most coveted keys, with luxuriously deep soaking tubs and expansive terraces featuring views over Tivoli.

Executive Suites from $3,870. Contact [email protected], +45 887 000 00, nimb.dk

Hotel D’Angleterre

Tracing its history back to 1755, Hotel d’Angleterre is nothing short of a Danish institution. Thankfully, the hotel has had a renovation or two since the 18th century, with rooms now boasting ritzy details like glittering chandeliers and neoclassical-style paneling alongside modern touches such as Bang & Olufsen televisions and in-room climate control systems. Book the aptly named Royal Suite for the height of opulence.

Elsewhere in the hotel there’s the Michelin-starred restaurant, Marchal, which deftly blends modern Nordic and classic French cuisines, as well as the sophisticated Balthazar Champagne Bar. Royal Suite from $8,674.

Contact room@dangleterre. com, +45 33 12 00 95, dangleterre.com

Around Town

Skiing might not be the first activity you think of when you picture a day in Copenhagen, but bear with us. As part of the city’s bid for carbon neutrality, truckloads of waste are diverted from landfill and instead sent to CopenHill, a power plant just outside of the city, where it is burned. The heat generated from this process is then captured and transformed into clean energy — enough energy to provide electricity for 30,000 households and central heating for 72,000 households per year. And, on top of this the state-of-the-art, green-energy plant is, inexplicably, a summer ski slope with a bar attached. Bonkers, but not to be missed.

copenhill.dk

Glyptoteket

For art aficionados, a visit to Ny Carlsberg Glyptoteket (more often referred to as just Glyptoteket) is a must. Found mere moments away from both Villa Copenhagen and the Nimb Hotel, the museum is an urban oasis with a jaw-dropping, glass-roofed winter garden. Offering a timeline through ancient and modern history, Glyptoteket is home to some 10,000 works of art, spanning from ancient Greek sculptures to uncovered Egyptian artifacts. You’ll also find a huge array of Danish classical art, as well as masterpieces by some of the most famous artists in modern history including Manet, Monet, Van Gogh and Renoir.

glyptoteket.com

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is a little way out of town, but well worth the trip. Occupying an impossibly beautiful waterside location, with endless views that seem to only exist in this portion of northern Europe, Louisiana is home to one of Scandinavia’s largest modern art collections, with a series of rotating installations on display throughout the year. The surrounding grounds are an attraction in their own right, with a striking sculpture garden featuring works by the likes of Henry Moore, Joan Miró and Max Ernst.

louisiana.dk

A trip to Copenhagen isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Nyhavn — the colorful row of 17th-century buildings that line the boat-filled waterfront. Admittedly, it is a tourist trap, but for good reason. Sunset is the time to visit for the money shot, when the cotton candy sky and rainbow-hued buildings reflect off the water perfectly. Head to one of the canal-front bars for an ice-cold beer.

[See also: A Green Guide to a Luxury Long Weekend in Monaco]

Live Like a Local

As is usually the case with all of the best destinations, one of Copenhagen’s biggest draws is how much of its identity is defined by its residents, not just the tourist crowds. To really get under the city’s skin, visiting the more residential neighborhoods is essential — and thanks to its tiny size, this is an easy task. Most hotels offer bicycles for guest use, so do as locals do and hop on a bike to explore Copenhagen’s best neighborhoods.

Not far from the city center is trendy Norrebro, which, much to locals’ delight, was recently crowned the coolest place to live in the world. Start with a Danish pastry at Mirabelle (ex-Noma chef Christian Puglisi’s bakery) before heading for a walk around Assistens Cemetery, a peaceful green space that is famously the final resting place of Hans Christian Andersen.

From here, make your way to Jægersborggade — a red-bricked street lined with hipster coffee shops and independent boutiques. Tuck into an alfresco lunch at Silberbauers Bistro before strolling along the street and stocking up on vintage clothes and handmade jewelry.

South of Norrebro is Frederiksberg, a leafy, upmarket area that just oozes sophistication. The main draw here is undoubtedly the green spaces, with Frederiksberg Gardens easily taking the top spot as one of the most beautiful in the city. As it is adjacent to the stately Frederiksberg Palace, which is flanked by perfectly manicured lines of trees, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’d been transported to an English country home.

Admittedly, Refshaleøen isn’t strictly a residential area, but it would be remiss of us not to mention its rise from industrial shipbuilding district to urban hub. The man-made island is now home to a contemporary art center, a cruising canal spa and some truly great restaurants (including Noma) — it’s also where you’ll find CopenHill. Come summer you’ll find locals diving into the harbor. Yes, the water really is that clean here.

[See also: A Luxury Guide to a Long Weeknd on the Amalfi Coast]

This article appears in the 05 Sep 2022 issue of the New Statesman, Fall 2022

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Copenhagen is the epitome of Scandi cool. Modernist lamps light New Nordic tables, bridges buzz with cycling commuters and locals dive into pristine waterways.

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Nationalmuseet

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Illums Bolighus

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Hey Captain

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Kongens Have

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Sankt Peders Bageri

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Torvehallerne KBH

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Gefion Fountain

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Det Kongelige Bibliotek

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Designmuseum Danmark

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Mikkeller & Friends

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La Banchina

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Assistens Kirkegård

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Christiansborg Slot Tower

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Gråbrødretorv

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Botanisk Have

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Jens Olsen's World Clock

The most famous resident at Copenhagen's Rådhus (City Hall) is the curious Jens Olsen's World Clock, designed by astromechanic Jens Olsen (1872–1945) and…

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Nikolaj Kunsthal

Built in the 13th century, the church of Sankt Nikolaj is now home to the Copenhagen Contemporary Art Centre, which hosts around half-a-dozen exhibitions…

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Rådhuspladsen

The square outside Copenhagen's Rådhus (City Hall) unites the busy thoroughfare of Vestrobrogade and the bustling Strøget pedestrian street. While the…

Completed in 1905, Copenhagen's national Romantic-style city hall is the work of architect Martin Nyrop. Inside is the curious Jens Olsen's World Clock,…

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Thorvaldsens Museum

What looks like a colourful Greco-Roman mausoleum is in fact a museum dedicated to the works of illustrious Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen (1770–1844)…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Get a local's perspective on all the big things you need to know before visiting Copenhagen.

Best Neighborhoods

Copenhagen has become one of Europe's most popular destinations and its lively neighborhoods are one of the reasons why. Here's a guide to the best.

Learn about Denmark's history of kings and Vikings, explore its lovely landscapes, and discover a world apart from its cosmopolitan capital.

Money and Costs

It’s possible to savor the restaurant, bars, neighborhoods and attractions of the expensive Danish capital on a budget. Here’s how.

Transportation

Don't worry about your carbon footprint when getting around Copenhagen. Choose from a variety of sustainable public transport options or go on foot.

Free Things to Do

The Danish capital can eat through your travel budget. Try these top free things to do in Copenhagen.

Discover the essence of Copenhagen’s coolness at these five independent shops.

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Copenhagen and beyond

Copenhagen   Travel Guide

Why Go To Copenhagen

While some Europeans revel in haute couture and haute cuisine, the Danes relish what they believe to be the height of importance: hygge . Defined as "comfort" or "coziness," hygge is a value reflected throughout Copenhagen, from the skillfully restored antique furniture to the hearty meals served in traditional Danish restaurants. Quality of life is a given: After all, the Danes have frequently been named the happiest people in the world. So go ahead, experience life as the Danes do: Hop on a bike and tour Indre By, visit the squatters in Christiania, munch on a Danish pastry in Vesterbro or simply wander around and see for yourself why this is one of the most livable cities in Europe.

Whether visiting Copenhagen to frolic in Tivoli Gardens , pay a visit to  The Little Mermaid statue, or shop for antiques along Strøget – there's no shortage of fun to be had. Although many of the city's top museums, parks and royal palaces are clustered in or around Indre By, you shouldn't be afraid to branch out. There's gallery-hopping in Vesterbro's Meatpacking District, beer sampling near Frederiksberg Have and soccer-watching at Telia Parken in Østerbro. Just take it easy; it's the Danish way.

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• # 9 in Best Places to Visit in June 2024

Best of Copenhagen

Best hotels in copenhagen.

• # 1 in Hotel d'Angleterre
• # 2 in Nimb Hotel
• # 3 in Villa Copenhagen

Best Things to Do in Copenhagen

• # 1 in Nyhavn
• # 2 in Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot)
• # 3 in Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)

Popular Tours

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Copenhagen Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Copenhagen is from March to May or between June and August – depending on what you're looking for. While the summer brings the warmest weather and a number of popular, large-scale events, those looking for lower rates and fewer crowds can still enjoy the mild weather in the spring. From May through September, the streets come alive as cafes spill to the sidewalks and festivals fill the air with music. Beginning in October, the city goes into hibernation for the winter; the only exception is December, when hotels fill for holiday celebrations.  

Weather in Copenhagen

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Summer is high season Yes, there will be tons of tourists and you'll have to pay more for your room, but the pleasant weather will make it well worth it.

You should grab a bike Copenhagen is an ideal town for cycling. You can cover a lot of ground while getting your exercise.

Bring plenty of funds This is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so be prepared to shell out those Danish kroner.

How to Save Money in Copenhagen

Take a walking tour Though you can easily get around Copenhagen on your own, for a dose of history and local insight, consider signing up for a free walking tour.

Buy a Copenhagen Card Purchase this card and you'll enjoy free admission to more than 80 attractions, as well as complimentary rides on public transportation. You'll also have access to discounts at select restaurants and entertainment venues.

Visit in the offseason While Copenhagen is at its best in the summer, you'll pay a premium on flights and hotels for planning your trip during the high season.

Culture & Customs

Danes are known for propriety, which is demonstrated in almost every aspect of their culture. Although dress is casual, make sure your clothes are clean and neat; if you're dining out, jeans are generally not acceptable.

Denmark's official language is Danish, though you'll find that many Danes living in Copenhagen – particularly the city center – speak English. To avoid a language barrier in other parts of the city, pack a Danish phrasebook or dictionary. Key words and phrases worth remembering include "hej"  (hello), "tak"  (thank you), "Taler du engelsk?"  (Do you speak English?) and "farvel"  (goodbye).

Although Denmark is a member of the European Union, it does not use the euro. Instead, the country's official currency is the Danish kroner. One Danish krone equals about 15 cents, but you'll want to check the latest exchange rate before you visit. Euros and dollars are also accepted at some vendors, but the exchange rate is not as favorable, so it is best to use kroner. ATMs are located throughout the city, and many travelers say that ATMs offer better exchange rates than most banks and hotels.

Like other European cities, tipping is not expected in Copenhagen. Service charges are generally included in restaurant bills, hotel prices and taxi rates. However, if you feel you've received exceptional service, you can round up your bill or leave a 10% tip.

What to Eat

The Danes take pride in their cuisine, and Copenhagen restaurants strive for excellence. In fact, 15 eateries here have Michelin stars.

Though Denmark's cuisine is not as world-renowned as what you'll find in other European countries like Italy and France, the country does feature a few must-try specialties. For a casual lunch, order a  smørrebrød  (an open-faced sandwich topped with ingredients like raw herring and hard-boiled eggs) or a  pølser  (a Danish-style hot dog commonly served with ketchup, mustard, fried onions and pickles). Both items are available at stands throughout Copenhagen. Other must-try items range from  frikadeller  (pan-fried meatballs) to  aebleskiver  (small, round pancakes stuffed with apples and served with marmalade) to local blue, danbo, samsø and havarti cheeses.

Copenhagen is relatively safe, but as with any urban area, you should still keep an eye out for pickpockets – especially in tourist areas and on public transportation. In Christiania , clashes between locals and police officers have occurred in recent years, but the area still sees plenty of visitors on a regular basis.  Residents do not permit photography around Pusher Street, where cannabis is sold. There have been cases of assault and robbery against tourists who have attempted to snap photos here, so if you plan on exploring this area, keep your camera stowed.

Additionally, terrorist attacks have become more common throughout Europe, and multiple terrorist plots have occurred or been thwarted in Copenhagen in the past few years. Terrorist attacks generally target crowded areas (such as malls, transportation hubs, popular attractions and major sporting events), so stay aware of your surroundings when in crowded areas. You'll want to keep up-to-date on current events as well. Consult the U.S. State Department's website to learn more about security concerns and safety tips for Denmark.

Getting Around Copenhagen

The best way to get around Copenhagen is on foot and by bike, especially when the weather is cooperating. If you're tired (or cold), you'll find a modern public transportation system that features metro lines, extensive bus routes and an easy-to-navigate train network. Taxis are plentiful but come at a cost.

To get between the city center and Copenhagen Airport (CPH), you can use any form of public transportation or hail a taxi. If you don't fly into the airport, you can also reach Copenhagen by train or boat. The Central Station services destinations around Denmark and provides access to Austria, Germany, Norway and Sweden. Meanwhile, passenger ferries transport both travelers and cars to Copenhagen from Germany, Norway and Poland. Copenhagen is also a popular port of call for cruise lines .

Entry & Exit Requirements

To enter Denmark, Americans must have a passport with two blank pages that is valid for at least six months after your trip. Americans can stay up to 90 days in Denmark, as well as in Greenland and the Faroe Islands (both of which are Danish territories), without obtaining a visa. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

Photography buffs will love visiting Nyhavn . Here, you can snap photos of colorful buildings, boats and more.

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An Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Visiting Copenhagen? Here’s an ultimate city guide to whisk you through the essentials of planning a perfect trip to the vibrant heart of Denmark – the best times to visit, how to effortlessly get around the city, and the must-see sights, and bites that make Copenhagen a true gem.

FYI : This is a long and exhaustive post but helpful if you are planning a trip to Copenhagen so pour yourself a nice cup of coffee and read on.

From beautiful canals, characterful streets, colorful neighborhoods, and ever-smiling locals to unique biking culture, dynamic culinary scene, fascinating cafe culture , majestic churches, stunning palaces, and of course, avant-garde design and architecture – Copenhagen is a remarkable city full of culture , history, and futuristic architecture.

There’s nothing you don’t like about Copenhagen, really. It has a beautiful vibe. The one you crave.

I can go on and on about Copenhagen, Vienna , and Istanbul – three of my favorite cities in the world!

What did we love about Copenhagen?

Everything.

Our time in the happiest city in the world was extraordinarily magical. It’s a perfect place to be with kids. Mini-me absolutely had the time of her life here.

Hubby and I loved visiting Copenhagen to the extent that we could live there for our whole life.

Despite being expensive, Copenhagen is insanely lovely, charismatically modish, fairly eco-friendly, and bike-friendly – all that makes it an absolute charmer!

The so cool it hurts the city of Copenhagen made us love all things Danish. Be it – Danish Royal Palaces, Danish Museums, Danish Design and Architecture, Danish Towns, Danish People, and Culture, Danish Concept of Hygge, Danish Food, and Danish Biking Culture.

What we loved the most about the city is its bike culture.

Copenhageners love to bike so much so that the bicycle has muscled its way into their language.

Danish historian Finn Wodschow says that there are more references to the bicycle in Danish literature, music, and film than in any other country.

Copenhagenize quotes some bicycle-related expressions that have embedded themselves even deeper in the Danish linguistic culture viz. Kæden er hoppede af: The chain fell off is used when something goes wrong.

Alright, back to the essentials of Copenhagen – it’s time to delve into the practicalities that make a trip here as seamless as it is memorable.

Planning a Trip to Copenhagen: Practical Information

Best time to visit copenhagen.

With the warmest weather, never-ending days (meaning more time to explore), and amazing events, summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Copenhagen. This is also the time when huge tourist crowds throng the city.

If you’re looking for low prices and fewer crowds – Spring (March to May) is the good time to go. The weather is mild enough for you to enjoy the exploration. It’s also a great time to witness the parks bursting into bloom.

Autumn or fall (September and October) brings a mix of sunny days, rainy days, and cold days. It’s when days start to become shorter, the air turns cool, and the pitter-patter of the rain fills the atmosphere. You’ll need a warm jacket and rain gear. The fall colors make the season extra special.

Winter (November to February) is for those who want to enjoy a quieter time in Copenhagen. The temperatures sink below zero and the days start to get dark early like at about 4 pm. You can call it a season of hygge, a great time to enjoy the heartwarming winter activities. Plan in December to witness the gorgeous Christmas Markets. Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe .

How Many Days to Spend in Copenhagen

Plan for about 3 to 4 days . That’s just the right amount of time to check out the big spots like Tivoli Gardens and the colorful Nyhavn, and still have a chance to stumble upon some cool, lesser-known places.

If you’re really into museums or thinking about day trips to places like the Louisiana Museum, maybe stay a bit longer, like 5 or 6 days. Copenhagen’s a great mix of old, new, and everything in between, and spending a few days is perfect for getting a real feel for it.

What to Pack for Copenhagen

Packing for Copenhagen depends on the time of year you visit, but here are the general pointers to help you:

⦿ Weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers that you can add or remove as needed. Include light sweaters , long-sleeve shirts , and a versatile jacket . An all-weather or 3-in-1 jacket can be extremely useful for varying weather conditions. Reflecting on my June visit, I learned this the hard way. I packed summer dresses and shorts, expecting warm weather, but ended up needing denim and a jacket most of the time. So, even in summer months, it’s wise to be prepared for cooler temperatures. ⦿ A waterproof jacket or a raincoat is essential, especially if you’re visiting outside the summer months. ⦿ Expect to do a lot of walking. Bring comfortable shoes , preferably waterproof, for exploring the city. ⦿ If you’re visiting in autumn or winter, pack a warm hat , gloves , and a scarf . My packing ritual includes a scarf that’s versatile for warmth and can be used to dress up an outfit for a night out. ⦿ Copenhagen is stylish yet casual. Pack a mix of casual wear and a few smart-casual outfits for dining out or evening entertainment. ⦿ Sunglasses , sun hat , and sunscreen are useful year-round, but especially in spring and summer. ⦿ The Scandinavian climate can be harsh on the skin, especially during the colder months, so pack a good moisturizer and a lip balm . ⦿ Pack travel-sized toiletries to keep your luggage light and avoid any issues with airport security. ⦿ Travel-sized laundry detergent for quick washes, especially if you’re staying in accommodations without laundry services. ⦿ Denmark uses Type C and Type K plug sockets. Bring an adapter if your devices use different plugs. ⦿ Portable Wi-Fi device for fast internet connection while on the go. ⦿ Copenhagen has excellent tap water, and it’s eco-friendly to carry a reusable water bottle ( collapsible is easy to carry) and refill it when needed. ⦿ If you plan to cycle (which you must), consider packing comfortable biking clothes and a light backpack . ⦿ If visiting in the warmer months or you’re brave enough to try winter swimming, don’t forget your swimwear . ⦿ Pack a basic health kit . Include any personal medications, pain relievers, plasters, and allergy medications. ⦿ Wet wipes and hand sanitizer are convenient for speedy clean-ups, especially in places without facilities, and have become essentials in the post-COVID era. ⦿ Naturally, don’t forget to pack a camera or a smartphone with a quality camera – Copenhagen’s scenic streets and iconic landmarks are a photographer’s dream. ⦿ Carry a portable charger for keeping your devices charged while on the go, especially useful if you use your phone for navigation and photos. ⦿ While digital maps are handy, a physical map or guidebook can be a reliable backup and offer insights into local attractions. ⦿ I and mini-me always pack a notebook and pen for jotting down thoughts, sketches, or details about your trip. ⦿ Consider bringing a reusable shopping bag – it’s useful for picking up groceries, especially if you’re planning to cook, and any souvenirs you pick up. ⦿ Earplugs and a sleep mask are quite useful if you’re a light sleeper and staying in a busy area or shared accommodation. ⦿ Travel Pillow for comfort during your flight or train journey to and from Copenhagen. ⦿ A good book or E-reader for relaxed evenings or downtime in cafes. ⦿ How about an extra memory card or cloud storage for backing up the many photos you’ll take? ⦿ A security pouch or money belt to safeguard your valuables when exploring the city. ⦿ Ensure all important documents, like health and travel insurance papers, are securely packed – they’re essential for international trips. Also, it’s wise to have digital or soft copies of your documents for extra safety.

Note: Every time I travel, I make sure to pack little gifts from back home. They’re not just gifts, but a way to connect with the people I meet while traveling, like the time a pattachitra palm leaf bookmark from my hometown really moved my Airbnb host in Norway . We ended up sharing stories and learning so much about each other’s cultures. It’s these small acts that make my travels so much more than just visits; they become a series of unforgettable, heartwarming experiences.

How to Get to Copenhagen

Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also known as Kastrup, is one of the oldest airports in Europe and the biggest airport in Scandinavia, is well-connected with all major European cities and all the major cities across the world.

Most major airlines, including low-cost carriers, operate flights to Copenhagen, making it easily accessible from destinations across the globe.

We were happy to find a direct flight (Air India) from New Delhi to Copenhagen.

We use Skyscanner or WayAway  to find the best-value flights.

Many nationals need to get a Schengen Visa before they arrive in Europe. Check here  to know if you need a Schengen Visa or not.

For those traveling from within Europe, trains are a scenic and comfortable option. Copenhagen Central Station is a major hub that connects the city with the rest of Denmark and key European cities.

The train network in Scandinavia isn’t as efficient as in Central Europe but is decent enough.

We use RailEurope ,  Omio , and Eurail to book trains in Europe.

Buses are a budget-friendly alternative, with numerous long-distance bus companies operating services to Copenhagen from various cities in Europe.

The central bus station in Copenhagen is conveniently located and well-serviced, making it a hassle-free option for travelers looking to save on costs.

You can reach Copenhagen by bus from Gothenburg, Malmo, Oslo, Stockholm, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, Amsterdam, and London.

We use Flixbus , one of Europe’s biggest bus companies, to book bus tickets around Europe.

Driving to Copenhagen is another option, especially for those exploring Scandinavia or the larger European region. Well-maintained highways connect Copenhagen with the rest of Denmark and neighboring countries.

The Øresund Bridge, a marvel of engineering, links Denmark with Sweden and is a popular route for those driving from Swedish cities like Malmö.

We use Discover Cars for all our car rental needs abroad.

If you’re up for a scenic journey, ferries can add a nautical twist to your adventure.

Major operators like Scandlines, Color Line, Fjord Line, and Stena Line offer ferry services from key European destinations to Denmark.

Getting from Copenhagen Airport to the City

It’s easy to get to and from Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup (CPH) to the city using public transit such as metro, train, and bus. Metro and train remain the quickest options to reach the city center plus they run 24X7.

One of the quickest ways to reach the city center from Copenhagen Airport is by taking the metro.

The metro station is located above Terminal 3 , and it operates 24/7. The ride to central stations like Kongens Nytorv and Nørreport takes about 15 minutes. The metro lines M1 , M2 , and M3 Cityringen connect downtown Copenhagen to the rest of the city.

The airport also has a train station (located under Terminal 3), with frequent services to Copenhagen Central Station.

The frequency of trains is every few minutes during the day and 1 to 4 times an hour at night. It takes you from Kastrup Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Central Station in around 15 minutes.

This option is ideal if you’re staying near the Central Station or connecting to other Danish or international trains.

Several bus lines operate between the airport and various points in the city.

Bus 5A takes you to Copenhagen Central Station, City Hall Square, and other central locations. Buses might be a bit slower than the metro or train but can be a good option if they stop close to your accommodation.

If you plan to buy the tickets on the bus make sure to keep the exact change in coins only.

The tickets for the bus, train, and metro can be purchased at the DSB ticket sales counter and ticket machines in terminal 3. Ticket machines accept credit cards and coins only.

Hiring a taxi is also an option to get to and from Copenhagen Airport but it’s expensive. Taxis pick up passengers outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 . The ride to the city center takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Ride Sharing Services

Services like Uber operate in Copenhagen, offering an alternative to traditional taxis. They can be booked via their respective apps.

For those who prefer driving, car rental services are available at the airport. This option gives you flexibility, especially if you plan to explore outside of Copenhagen.

Bicycle Rental

Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city, and some might even choose to rent a bicycle at the airport and cycle into the city. This is a more adventurous option and gives you a chance to experience the city like a local.

Good to Know: Free shuttle bus services are available to travel from one terminal to another .

Anywhichways you travel, you’ll most likely arrive at Copenhagen Central Station, from where you can take a subway, bus, or taxi to commute to the rest of the city.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Make sure you have a map or layout  to get around Copenhagen hassle-free.

Copenhagen on Foot

Copenhagen is compact which makes it quite a walking-friendly city. It can be explored on foot with ease. Walking is one of the most beautiful ways to explore the Danish capital.

You can walk around the center of Copenhagen, in just one day. Ah! And you can do so much with this guide to one day in Copenhagen .

Join one of the Copenhagen free walking tours or private walking tours or else take a self-guided tour .

Here are some of our recommendations for the best Copenhagen walking tours:

Copenhagen by Bike

As I said, it’s practicable to explore Copenhagen on foot, but I strongly recommend renting a bike with kids .

One of the coolest and most eco-friendly ways to explore Copenhagen is to hire a bicycle with GPS. The city is a haven for bikers.

Copenhagen has exclusive bike lanes and lovely bridges dedicated to bikers. Bike lanes are uniformly separated from the car lanes making cycling in the city easy for everyone.

Let the kids explore the world’s biking city on their bikes.

You’ll find a good deal of bike rentals throughout the city. Some of them even customize the bikes as per your requirements. The Bycyklen bikes offer electric bikes with a smart navigation system and they are widely available everywhere in Copenhagen. You must cycle cautiously while following all the biking rules in Copenhagen. It takes some time to understand the way cycle lanes work there 🙂

Check out some of the best bike tours in Copenhagen!

Public Transportation in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is quite easy to get around with extensive public transport options.

Copenhagen’s public transport system is one of the best in the world. It is reliable, punctual, and covers the entire city and its suburbs. It includes buses, trains, and the metro.

The S-Train network is perfect for traveling around the greater Copenhagen area. Trains are frequent, and the network connects to different parts of the city and nearby towns.

The bus network in Copenhagen is extensive and operates both day and night routes. Buses are a great option to reach areas that are not serviced by the metro or S-Trains.

To experience Copenhagen from its beautiful waterways, you can use the harbor buses or take a canal tour. This offers a unique perspective of the city and is particularly popular in the summer months.

One ticket can be used across all modes of transport, making it simple and cost-effective. The metro operates 24/7, making it extremely convenient. Use the Citymapper app  or Rejseplanen to navigate the city better. Here’s a guide to efficiently use public transport in Copenhagen.

If you are planning to use public transport for most of your time in Copenhagen, it’s wise to invest in a City Pass or a Copenhagen Card .

City Pass gives access to unlimited travel on trains, metros, and buses in Copenhagen. It can be purchased for 24, 48, 72, and 120 hours. With an adult City Pass, 2 children under 12 years of age can travel free of charge. You can buy a City Pass from the ticket vending machines installed at stations or can get one from the DOT Tickets app .

Copenhagen Card

Copenhagen Card not only allows you free public transport but also free entrance to 86 tourist attractions and museums plus some tours.

Like City Pass, it can also be purchased for 1 to 4 days and can be ordered online in advance. Show the receipt at Copenhagen airport to get your card.

If you plan on visiting major attractions and museums, it’s probably fair to invest in a Copenhagen Card .

What is included with the Copenhagen Card? Check here . You might be wondering if the Copenhagen Card is worth it for 3 days in Copenhagen.

Okay. You might find them expensive but believe me, they do save a lot of money, time, and hassle. The exploration becomes easy without having to run around to buy tickets every time and pay for them in DKK!

You might want to install the Copenhagen City Card app .

Buy the Copenhagen Card

Taxi and Ride-Sharing in Copenhagen

There are quite a few taxi companies in Copenhagen. You can flag a taxi on the road or hire one from one of the taxi ranks. You can also book a taxi over the phone. It takes just about 5 minutes for the taxi to arrive once booked. The main taxi companies in Copenhagen are 4X27 , DanTaxi , and Taxa 4X35 .

The ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in the city.

Renting a Car and Parking in Copenhagen

Renting a car in the world’s best bike city is a crime (no, not really).

But, Danes will make you believe that.

On every street and every corner, you’ll find Danes on the bike – going to work, going shopping, going to school, and everywhere.

Anyway, we committed the crime of renting a car to travel in and around Copenhagen. It certainly saved us money because we shared expenses with another family traveling with us.

I’d not recommend you rent a car in Copenhagen. Parking isn’t easy to find and if you find one, it costs you a lot.

The parking fee is charged per hour and complying with the time restrictions is pretty difficult.

I mean, imagine you parked your car in Frederiksberg and reached Vesterbro while exploring the city and bumped, your parking time’s up.

You won’t imagine how inconvenient it is to run between neighborhoods to extend your parking for another hour. Been there, done that.

Rent a car only if you are planning to do day trips from Copenhagen or a road trip to Sweden across the Øresund.

We use and recommend Discover Cars for all your rental car needs. Trust me, they are the best of the lot!

If you are still planning to drive in Copenhagen, please buy a time interval card that is valid for 5 days (weekdays only) or download the Easypark app to save the trouble of finding parking and paying for it.

Click here to learn all about Parking in Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

We stayed at a beautiful Airbnb in Kokkedal and loved the experience.

For people who love the luxury and ease of hotels, we have a guide to the best hotels in Copenhagen .

Find the best deals and special offers on Copenhagen accommodations here .

What to See and Do in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a city that charms and surprises at every turn, a place where getting lost is part of the enchantment. Wandering its cobbled streets and quaint bylanes, I found myself constantly amazed by the hidden gems that lay around each corner.

Whether it was an unexpected art installation, a cozy café, or a snapshot of everyday Danish life, there was always something new and captivating to discover.

Remarkably, Copenhagen caters to all travelers, offering a treasure trove of experiences that are often free or budget-friendly . This city is like a journey of delightful discoveries, where the simple act of exploring brings its own rich rewards.

Iconic or Famous Places in Copenhagen

Here’s a list of the must-sees, must-visits, and must-experience in Copenhagen!

Nyhavn : Famous for its colorful townhouses and historical wooden ships, Nyhavn is a picturesque harbor perfect for a beautiful stroll or a canal tour.

The Little Mermaid Statue and Langelinie Pier : A symbol of Copenhagen, this iconic sculpture at Langelinie Pier is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale and is a must-visit.

Amalienborg Palace : The Danish royal family’s home, famous for its traditional architecture and daily guard change ceremony.

Tivoli Gardens : One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli offers enchanting gardens, thrilling rides, and cultural events. It’s magical both day and night.

King’s New Square (Kongens Nytorv) : A lively and historic square, near Nyhavn and the Royal Danish Theater.

Christiansborg Palace : The center of Danish politics, housing the Parliament and Prime Minister’s office, known for its Royal Rooms and tower views. The Royal Stables at the palace offer a peek into the royal horses’ lives and Danish equestrian culture.

The National Museum of Denmark : Explore Denmark’s rich history, from Vikings to the present, in this comprehensive museum.

The National Gallery of Denmark aka Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK): This gallery is a rich repository of art, showcasing a wide array of Danish and international pieces spanning 700 years.

Royal Danish Naval Museum : A must-visit for maritime enthusiasts, showcasing the history of Denmark’s naval prowess.

Copenhagen City Hall : An architectural marvel in the heart of the city, offering tours and panoramic views from its tower.

Glyptoteket : An art museum housing a vast collection of ancient and modern art, including works by Rodin, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

Botanical Garden : Integrated with the Natural History Museum of Denmark, this urban oasis boasts an impressive array of plants and greenhouses, right in the city center.

Frederik’s Church (The Marble Church) : Known for its impressive dome, this church is an architectural masterpiece and a serene place of worship.

Rosenborg Castle : Home to Danish crown jewels, this Renaissance castle is set in the beautiful King’s Garden and offers a glimpse into royal history.

Strøget : One of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, Strøget is bustling with shops, cafes, and street performers, making it perfect for shopping and people-watching.

Church of Our Saviour : A must-visit in Copenhagen, this church is renowned for its spiral spire and breathtaking city views from the top. Its striking design and location in Christianshavn make it a standout landmark.

Rundetaarn (Round Tower) : For a unique view, visit this 17th-century tower with its helical corridor leading to an observatory and panoramic views of the city.

Kastellet (The Citadel) : One of the best-preserved fortresses in Northern Europe, offering peaceful green surroundings and historical structures.

Carlsberg Brewery : Dive into the history of one of the world’s famous beers. The Carlsberg Visitors Centre offers tours and beer tastings.

The Royal Danish Playhouse : A stunning modern venue on the waterfront, hosting a range of plays and performances.

Copenhagen Zoo : This historic zoo, among Europe’s oldest, showcases an extensive array of animals and plays a significant role in numerous wildlife conservation efforts.

The Royal Library (The Black Diamond) : A striking example of modern architecture on the waterfront, this extension of the Royal Library stands as a breathtaking landmark and a vibrant center for cultural activities.

Cirkelbroen (The Circle Bridge) : A uniquely designed pedestrian bridge that adds a contemporary touch to the city’s waterways and connects Christianshavn to the rest of the city.

The Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) : Once home to Copenhagen’s meat industry, this area is now a trendy spot filled with galleries, restaurants, and nightlife.

Thorvaldsens Plads Antique Market : A delightful spot for antique lovers, offering a range of items from jewelry to furniture.

The Øresund Bridge : While not in Copenhagen itself, this engineering marvel connecting Denmark to Sweden is worth seeing, either by car or train.

The H.C. Andersen Fairy-Tale House : This museum, celebrating the life and stories of Hans Christian Andersen, is conveniently situated close to the City Hall Square.

Islands Brygge Harbour Bath : An urban swimming area right in the heart of the city, popular for its open-air swimming pools and diving platforms.

Svanemølle Beach : Located in the Østerbro district, this beach is a recent addition and offers a lovely sandy area and a swimming pier.

Offbeat or Hidden Gems in Copenhagen

Christiania : Known for its alternative lifestyle, Christiania is a unique community with colorful street art, organic eateries, and a distinct vibe.

Superkilen Park : This urban park in Nørrebro is a celebration of diversity, featuring objects from around the world, and is a favorite among locals.

The David Collection : A lesser-known gem, this museum houses one of Europe’s finest collections of Islamic art, along with Danish early modern art.

Designmuseum Danmark : A paradise for design enthusiasts, showcasing Danish design and crafts, including works by famous Danish designers.

The Danish Jewish Museum : A poignant museum dedicated to the history of Danish Jews, designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.

The Hirschsprung Collection : Tucked away in the serene Østre Anlæg park, this gallery showcases an exquisite collection of Danish art spanning the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Thorvaldsens Museum : Dedicated to the works of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, the museum is both an artistic and architectural gem.

Halmtorvet Square : Once a hay market, now a vibrant area in Vesterbro with trendy bars and restaurants.

The Worker’s Museum (Arbejdermuseet) : Offers insights into the everyday lives of Danish workers over the past 150 years.

The Copenhagen Contemporary Art Center : Showcases large-scale contemporary art installations.

The Royal Library Garden : This secluded haven in the city’s core offers a tranquil retreat, ideal for peaceful walks or a restful break.

Assistens Cemetery : More than just a cemetery, this is a peaceful green space where famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen are buried. It’s also a popular spot for a quiet walk.

Cisternerne : An underground art space located beneath Søndermarken Park, Cisternerne offers a unique exhibition experience in an old water reservoir.

Vestre Cemetery : This large, landscaped cemetery is also a serene park and arboretum, ideal for a reflective stroll.

Grundtvig’s Church : An architectural marvel blending traditional church architecture with expressionist style.

Copenhagen Opera House : A contemporary architectural marvel, this opera house stands out with its breathtaking harbor views and outstanding acoustics.

Tycho Brahe Planetarium : An educational center for astronomy and space science, offering immersive IMAX and 3D shows that take you on a journey through the stars and beyond.

Urban Rigger : A unique floating housing concept in Copenhagen’s harbor, showcasing innovative and sustainable living spaces.

Copenhagen Cable Park : For the adventurous, this spot offers cable wakeboarding in the Copenhagen harbor area.

Magstræde & Sofiegade : Two of the oldest streets in Copenhagen, known for their charming, colorful, and well-preserved 17th-century buildings.

Olufsvej : A hidden gem in the city, this street is famous for its unique and colorful house facades.

Gråbrødretorv : A picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings and cozy cafes, perfect for experiencing the city’s vibrant café culture.

Krusemyntegade : Notable for its lovely pastel-colored houses, this street is a delightful spot for a stroll and photography.

Nyboder : A historic row house district, originally built for the Royal Danish Navy personnel, known for its unique yellow buildings and historical significance.

Jaegersborggade : A trendy street in Nørrebro, known for its artisanal shops, organic eateries, and creative vibe.

Sankt Hans Gade : A street in the Nørrebro district, lined with interesting shops and cafes, reflecting the diverse and vibrant local culture.

The Pink Palads : A strikingly pink-colored building, adds a splash of color and whimsy to the cityscape.

Jægersborg Allé : A charming shopping street in the suburb of Gentofte, lined with boutiques and cafes, away from the city’s hustle.

Værnedamsvej : Often referred to as Copenhagen’s Paris, this small, bustling street is great for shopping, dining, and experiencing the local lifestyle.

Ravnsborggade : Known for its vintage shops and cozy bars, this street offers a more laid-back, local feel.

Refshaleøen : A former industrial site now housing creative spaces, street food markets, and music festivals.

Valby Park : One of Copenhagen’s largest parks, featuring themed gardens and beautiful nature, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.

The Six Forgotten Giants : Hunt for the six giant wooden sculptures hidden in the suburbs, a perfect adventure for families and nature lovers.

What to See and Do Around Copenhagen

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art : Situated in Humlebæk, north of Copenhagen, this museum is not only known for its impressive collection of modern art but also its stunning architecture and sea views.

Ordrupgaard Museum : An art museum north of Copenhagen, showcasing French Impressionists and Danish art, set in a beautiful park.

Experimentarium : This premier science center in Hellerup features engaging and interactive displays, perfect for families and explorers of all ages.

Roskilde : Home to the UNESCO-listed Roskilde Cathedral and the Viking Ship Museum, Roskilde offers a fascinating glimpse into Denmark’s rich history and is just a short train ride away.

Frederiksborg Castle : Located in Hillerød, this Renaissance castle houses the Museum of National History and is set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

Kronborg Castle : In Helsingør, this UNESCO World Heritage site, known as Hamlet’s castle, offers historical exhibitions and breathtaking views of Sweden across the Øresund.

The Cliffs of Møn (Møns Klint) : These striking white chalk cliffs offer a scenic natural escape with hiking trails and a visitor center explaining the area’s geology.

The Deer Park (Dyrehaven) : A bit outside the city, this park is perfect for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat. It’s home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Bakken Amusement Park : Located in Deer Park, it’s the world’s oldest operating amusement park.

Kastrup Sea Bath (The Snail) : An architecturally stunning sea bath made of wood, offering a unique swimming experience.

Amager Beach Park (Amager Strandpark) : A popular spot with a long sandy beach and an artificial island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.

Dragør : This picturesque fishing village near Copenhagen is perfect for a leisurely day trip, with its well-preserved old town and harbor.

The Blue Planet (National Aquarium Denmark) : Northern Europe’s largest aquarium offers an immersive experience of the world of marine life.

Bellevue Beach : A bit north of the city, this beach is known for its beautiful white sands and views of the Øresund Bridge.

Odense : A bit further afield, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen is a charming city with a dedicated museum to the famous author and quaint streets to explore.

The Viking Village (Vikingelandsbyen ) in Albertslund : For a unique experience, visit this reconstructed Viking village to learn about Viking life and culture.

Arken Museum of Modern Art : Located in Ishøj, south of Copenhagen, Arken is known for its contemporary art exhibitions and striking architecture.

Where to Eat in Copenhagen

Whatever your budget, there are traditional and delicious meals waiting for you to feast on in Copenhagen.

They have Noma , the world’s most expensive and exclusive restaurant and they have food markets that serve delish food at cheap prices.

Torvehallerne Food Market

Torvehallerne is a huge closed market where one finds every food item you can imagine. You name it, they have it!

Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food Market, Refshaleøen

Reffen is a market that houses more than 50 stalls that work on the sustainable belief of “reduce and reuse.” It’s a blend of the food market and creative workshops.

Fresh creative entrepreneurs who are looking for a startup can create and sell their products here.

Low-Cost Restaurants and Cafes in Nørrebro and Vesterbro

You get tired of eating street food or cooking on your own all the time. Hunt for some good-value restaurants to eat out without blasting your travel budget.

Avoid Nyhavn – food costs a fortune. We tried  Cafe Klods Hans – It was good but way expensive.

I’d recommend the restaurants and cafes in Nørrebro and Vesterbro neighborhoods as they serve quality food for the money.

BOB , Riz Raz , South Indian Frederiksberg , and Sult serve tasty and good food at a reasonable price.

John’s Hotdog Deli is a gourmet hot dog stand where you can create your hot dog or try their monthly specials. They are located in Kødbyen  (Vesterbro) and Bernstorffsgade .

Hit the Supermarkets

The ridiculously cheapest way to eat in Copenhagen is to hit one of the city’s supermarkets and hoard food that you can cook back at your Airbnb rental.

I found Netto and Rema 1000 the best of the lot.

Tivoli Food Hall

You don’t need to pay for the Tivoli Gardens entrance ticket to visit Tivoli Food Hall . About 16 stalls are offering a range of foods from Danish to International cuisines.

Steff-Houlberg

Steff-Houlberg hot dog cart or stand (pølsevogn) is everywhere in Copenhagen.

I mean you are never more than a minute or two away from the next hot dog cart when in Copenhagen.

The best quick meal fix at cheap prices.

They serve famous veg/non-veg Danish hot dogs, pølse in Danish. It’s the favored street food in Denmark.

Meatpacking Weekend Food Market

Kødbyens Mad & Marked is the most wallet-friendly food market in Copenhagen. You get everything from traditional Danish food like smørrebrød, and bøfsandwich to fresh produce.

Find the best places to eat based on reviews by travelers at TripAdvisor

Top Food Experiences in Copenhagen

Where to shop in copenhagen.

People love to shop at one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe, Strøget with the profusion of shops on both sides selling everything ranging from expensive brands like Parada, and Louis Vuitton to budget brands like Zara and Vero Moda.

There are a lot many cafes and restaurants for you to take your weight off your feet and grab a bite.

Don’t miss visiting magical  Karrusella , a charming children’s shop in the  Jorcks Passage on Strøget Street. They have a little door for their cute tiny customers beside the regular door 🙂

Just parallel to Strøget is  Strædet Street with design shops selling ceramics and antiques.

I loved  Jægersborggade Street for its little and cute artisanal shops. A perfect place for an artist is you!

Local flea markets in Copenhagen are a great place for bargains.  You get everything from children’s clothes, and toys to all things vintage, and antiques at reasonable prices.

The key is to get there early. I particularly liked the  Frederiksberg Loppetorv  which takes place on Saturdays.

Check the flea market days if you happen to be in Copenhagen anytime between spring to autumn. Head to  Thorvaldsens Plads in Gammel Strand on Fridays and Saturdays if antiques and collectibles entice you.

Copenhagen Travel Tips 

• Explore the city at your own pace. Wander. Stroll down any street or attraction that pleases you. We divided Copenhagen city into neighborhoods to be explored based on the number of days on hand and walked around the city ambling into shops, cafes, churches, museums, and streets. We entered only those attractions that pleased kids or just took a sneak peek of places that were free with the Copenhagen Card . It’s better not to buy tickets to places that fail to tickle children.
• I highly recommend buying a Copenhagen Card . You’ll save a lot of time, energy, and money.
• Embrace the biking culture in one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.
• Make sure to check the opening hours of the attractions you want to visit as they vary according to the season.
• Explore beyond the city center. I understand that the city center has the most famous attractions, but neighborhoods like Nørrebro and Vesterbro offer a more local experience with trendy cafes, shops, and lesser-known sights.
• Copenhagen is famous for its culinary scene. Don’t miss trying traditional Danish food like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), as well as exploring the city’s street food markets.
• The weather can be unpredictable. It’s wise to dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, especially outside of summer.
• Credit cards are accepted everywhere. Practically, you can do without cash. Though, I’d suggest having some Danish Kroner (DKK) ready in case you need it. Euros ain’t widely accepted.
• Respect the local customs. Danes are known for their punctuality and orderliness. Also, remember to follow cycling rules if you rent a bike.
• Copenhagen is a leader in sustainability. You can contribute by using public transport, biking, and supporting local businesses.
• You must take advantage of free activities – there are plenty in Copenhagen like like the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace or strolling along the Nyhavn.
• Carry the two-pin continental plugs to charge your camera and phone.
• If you have extra time, consider day trips to nearby attractions like the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Roskilde, or even a quick visit to Sweden via the Øresund Bridge.
• Download city apps for local attractions, public transport, or food delivery services.
• Knowing a few basic phrases in Danish can enhance your interaction with locals.
• When in Denmark , do as Danes do 🙂 One must experience hygge (hoo-geh) when in Denmark! Slow down, get cozy, and relish the moment. After all, authentic cultural experiences make travel meaningful and attractive.

We had an awesome time in Copenhagen. It’s one Scandinavian city that simply can’t be missed.

I sincerely hope this Copenhagen travel guide with infinitesimal details of our trip to Copenhagen, will help you plan yours.

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A Comprehensive Copenhagen Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

In need of a comprehensive Copenhagen travel guide? Don’t worry, I’ve just returned from a week long trip in Denmark’s capital city, so I’m jotting everything you’ll need to know below!

You know, visiting Copenhagen wasn’t necessarily high on my travel list, but I feel like I’ve always wanted to go. Way back in college one of my acquaintances studied abroad there, and I floated the idea of visiting. Since then, everyone I know has always had good things to say whether they were cursory travelers or professional ones.

This year, though, my friend, Alyshia , had a week off of work for spring break and asked if I wanted to go anywhere. At first we were looking at Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island but decided it was still way too cold to properly enjoy. Then we thought about somewhere in the Caribbean or South America but it was either too far for a week or too expensive since other Canadians were also escaping the cold. Finally, Alyshia plugged in some cheap flights from Toronto and came up with Copenhagen or Paris . Since we’d both already been to the latter, we immediately agreend on Copenhagen.

Flash forward a few months and we’ve just spent a fun week exploring the city, eating a wonderfully absurd amount of carbs, and walking up a lot of steps. Check out the below guide for all my best tips.

A Copenhagen Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

A brief history of copenhagen.

As with all places I write about, I’m starting with a bit of Copenhagen’s history. After all – how else will you know and appreciate what you’re seeing today?

Copenhagen (or København in Danish) began around the 1000s during the Viking Age, though the earliest historical records we have are from the 1100s. As you might guess from the waterfront location, it became a popular spot for merchants and fishermen and really anyone who used the sea for work.

One of the important moments in Copenhagen’s history was when it, with Norway and Sweden, established the Kalmar Union to counter the Hanseatic League ( of Bergen fame ). Think of it like a smaller EU.

The way it all came about is thanks to the typical royal inheritance debacles, but the union did last from 1397 to 1523. During that time Copenhagen became the center of the union as it became the seat of the monarchy and, naturally, it flourished culturally, economically, and socially.

The next big event in Copenhagen’s history is the Danish Golden Age. This age all started with a plague and a fire, almost giving the city a chance to start from scratch. During the Golden Age, which lasted for half of the 1800s, culture was front and center. From architecture to art to literature to music, a ton of important Danish figures emerged during this time. The most famous, of course, would have to be Hans Christian Andersen, aka one of the main creators of the modern fairy tale.

Today, Copenhagen has more or less retained its cultural reputation. Both Danish and Copenhagen culture is frequently referenced whether it’s style, food, interiors, or design. I’m sure we’ve all heard of hygge by now! Not to mention noma, the restaurant of all restaurants in the fine dining world (soon to be an RIP). If you watch “The Bear,” this is where Marcus trains when he goes to Copenhagen.

Hard to meet anyone who’s been, no matter the time of year, and had a bad time in the city!

How Expensive is Copenhagen?

I will not lie to you – like most Nordic countries I’ve been to, Copenhagen can get very pricey. I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily pricier than, say, San Francisco or New York City , but if you’re not used to those prices, you might find yourself pinching pennies a bit.

However, there are a lot of ways to offset the cost! The biggest one I’d recommend looking into is the Copenhagen City Card . I’m going to write a post breaking down the card’s cost vs. how often we used it, but when I tallied the total, we saved about $70 USD with the 120-hr card!

Other ways I’d say to save is to bring a water bottle to refill (tap water here is delicious). Stick to cafes, bakeries, food halls, and cheap eateries (even the “cheap places” are mouthwatering!). Walk as much as possible if you’re not using the card (really the city isn’t that big) and look into budget accommodation – especially off season.

Plus, check out the local grocery stores. You can easily make yourself sandwiches and snacks from Netto while on the go. Quite a few places have packed lunch sections to sit and eat.

When to Visit Copenhagen

Honestly, after being further north than Denmark in all the seasons, I would say you could visit Copenhagen any time of year and have a good experience.

Summer is obviously the most popular with warm weather, long, sunny days, and everything open. However, with all of that comes more expensive rates on hotels, tickets, and flights.

Winter sounds fun with all the hygge and it still gets quite a decent amount of daylight compared to other Scandinavian countries. I assume a lot closes though.

I really enjoyed coming over Alyshia’s spring break in mid-March! Like 99% of what we wanted to do was open, and we got really great deals on flights and hotels. I also noticed a few places either had slightly lower prices too. Temperature-wise it was around 30-50F depending on the day and mostly overcast.

I would say the sweet spot would be late April, early May or mid-late September. Some of the things I wanted to do like the Reffen Market or Tivoli Gardens were still closed in March but would be open in April. The weather is a bit better and because you’re still in the shoulder season, you should be able to find decent deals.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

As someone who hates, hates walking with a suitcase for more than 15-20 minutes, I am a big proponent of staying close to stations. Luckily, Copenhagen has a really great train, metro, and bus situation so regardless of where you stay, you’ll be pretty close to something.

For first time visitors, I’d stay right by København H (Copenhagen Central Station). It’s a straight shot to the airport in under 30 minutes and will have you connected to not only everything in the city but will make any and all day trips easier. Plus it’s right by Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District which has a lot of cool cafes and restaurants.

We stayed at Go Hotel Ansgar since we were looking for something budget-friendly. I’d say the only downside was that the internet was pretty spotty, so don’t plan on making video calls or anything too intense. Otherwise, we didn’t mind the tighter quarters since we were pretty much out from morning til evening. Check current prices here.

Some other hotels we looked at:

Otherwise, I’d say stay near Kongens Nytorv or Gammel Strand to be central but in charming areas. Meanwhile Rådhuspladsen and Nørrebro are cool neighborhoods that feel a little more hipster, local but still easy to navigate.

How to Get into Copenhagen

I’m going to assume 90% of you reading this post are coming in by plane and flying into Københavns Lufthavn (Copenhagen Airport or CPH). Lucky for you this airport is really easy to navigate, it’s just really big and can feel like you’re walking for a while.

To take public transport, you can literally get on the train right at the airport in Terminal 2. Alyshia and I found each other by baggage claim and then went to get hot dogs at Steff’s Place. The ticket station and entrance to the train was right next to stand.

Also you can download the DOT Billeter app to buy directly on there but I couldn’t get it to connect to my credit cards. If you use the Copenhagen card, airport transfer is included.

By Train or Bus

For those of you coming in by bus or train, you’ll likely go right to København H (Copenhagen Central Station). Sometimes it shows up as Köpenhamn H. Just know whether you see København H, Köpenhamn H, or Central Station, they’re all the same.

How to Get Around Copenhagen

If you’re ready to walk, you can very easily walk everywhere in Copenhagen. Like we took the metro and buses a lot since we had unlimited rides, but if you’re trying to save money and want to, this city is incredibly walkable. Tons of sidewalk space and just easy to navigate. I can just picture visiting as a college student and managing to walk all around!

By Bus/Metro

Copenhagen has a really great metro and bus system. It costs about $3.50 USD per ride so that can definitely add up if you’re not careful, especially when some of the rides could be 15-20 minute walks.

Most metro trains we took came every 2-5 minutes while buses were definitely a little rarer. The further out of the center you get, the longer the wait in between the buses. When we went to find the troll, Kaptajn Nalle, buses were very 20-30 minutes.

Obviously, Copenhagen is bike city! There are bike lanes everywhere, and from what I can tell most people get around on their two wheels. As a tourist, I’d only bike if you feel comfortable with it as I imagine it’d be pretty annoying to have someone causing issues in the bike lane during rush hour.

From what I can tell most hotels will have bikes available to rent – ours has a whole line of them. As for parking them, I saw plenty of bike parking lots, but, again, ask your hotel for guidance!

Notable Sightseeing Places in Copenhagen

There are a lot of cool things to do and see in Copenhagen, but to give you the very basics, here are the top 5:

This little waterfront strip is THE place to see in Copenhagen. Pretty much every establishing shot on film and every prominent photo of the city was taken right here. It spans about nearly 1500ft (450m) and is full of colorful buildings and boats. If you want to do a canal cruise , they usually leave from here too.

I imagine it’s swarmed come summer, so visit early for a more peaceful atmosphere. Or come in the shoulder season and even in the afternoon it shouldn’t be too bad.

Skip any food here, from what I’ve read none of it is particularly remarkable and is more expensive than walking 5 minutes away towards Kyngens Nytorv.

Most things are closed on a Monday but not Rundetårn (The Round Tower). It’s one of the best ways to get a bird’s eye view of Copenhagen and dates back to the 1600s. It’s actually the oldest functioning observatory in Europe, and you can see its telescope once you climb up.

Bonus: When you get back down, go to the døp hot dog cart for an excellent hot dog – ask for everything on it!

The Little Mermaid Statue

If you can’t tell by the absolute terrible quality of the photo above, I didn’t go check out Den Lille Havfrue or The Little Mermaid on land. Maybe if I go in warmer weather, I’ll walk over, but for now I was fine viewing it from our canal tour’s boat.

This statue is dedicated to the fairytale and is part of Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy in Copenhagen. It’s also been named as one of the most disappointing landmarks to see in person, so keep your expectations low! And if you do go over to see on land, combine it with a trip to Amalienborg Castle and Kastellet, a start-shaped fortress.

Tivoli Gardens

I’m so bummed Tivoli was closed while we were there! This amusement park is literally right by Central Station (like we walked by it constantly) and is one of the most popular amusement parks in all of Europe. They even say it inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland.

Everyone I know and every blog, Reddit post, and Instagram Reel or Tiktok had Tivoli on their list of things to do in Copenhagen, so you know it’s not just a tourist thing. Just know if you only get an entrance ticket, you’ll have to pay for each ride, so book a ticket with unlimited rides to make the most of it.

One of the Palaces

Within Copenhagen, you can visit Amalienborg (the current home to the royal family), Christiansborg (home to Danish parliament), or Rosenborg (where the crown jewels are kept). About an hour away is Frederiksborg (the “Versaille of Denmark), and Kronborg (Hamlet’s Castle). That’s all to say, you’ve got five different palaces to choose from, so take time to see at least one.

I will say the palaces that are in Copenhagen are pretty quick visits as only part of them are actually open to the public, so you could easily plan to visit all three in a day if you wanted to. Many even have combination tickets to make it more affordable.

Where to Eat in Copenhagen

The thing I noticed about Copenhagen is that it’s really hard to have a bad meal here. Maybe around Nyhavn there are crappy menus, but honestly this city takes its gastronomy very seriously. There’s a reason it’s home to over twenty Michelin-starred restaurants!

Either way, whether you want a cheap hot dog or can score reservations at the most exclusive fine dining restaurant out there, you will eat well while you’re here.

Cafes and Bakeries

You guys know I love a good café city, and Copenhagen does not disappoint! There are cafés and bakeries (or bageris) all over, and we probably stopped into at least two or three a day. Not only will you get delicious coffee, most places will have something to eat or, at the very least, an extremely delicious array of freshly made baked goods.

We usually started off with breakfast at a café near whatever landmark we wanted to go, and I often switched it up with matcha lattes and hot chocolates. Who knew Denmark was known for its matcha skills?!

Another really good option for eating in Copenhagen is looking up the various food halls. There are quite a few options, and while we were there we managed to make it to Torvehallerne where I tried some Danish porridge (grød).

I will say a lot of the open air food halls/markets like Reffen or Broens Gadekøkken are closed until at least April, so double check times on their websites.

Hot Dog Stands

As someone who’s not even a big hot dog person let alone someone who adds a ton of toppings to her dogs, I am OBSESSED with Danish hot dogs. I remember hearing Iceland had really fantastic hot dogs too but didn’t get a chance to try one, so I wanted to make sure I ate at least one while here.

Turns out we ate four, including one quite literally after we met at the airport. You can’t go wrong with a stand, and there’s at least one in every major square. Heck as soon as you exit Central Station, there’s a great hot dog stand right there.

Michelin Restaurants

Like I mentioned above, Copenhagen has well over twenty Michelin-starred restaurants and is home to what might be the most famous (maybe infamous?). I wouldn’t say I’m the biggest foodie on the planet but even I’ve heard of noma!

If you’re someone who seeks these restaurants out or are traveling with a fine dining foodie, you’ll have a bevy of options right at your finger tips. We didn’t visit any of them as we were on a budget and I had so many cafes, hot dog stands, and fast food-style places I wanted to try, but maybe on a future trip!

Vietnamese Cuisine

Here’s something totally random I noticed – Copenhagen seemed to have a lot more Vietnamese cuisine than I could have ever expected. Given that I lived there and love the food, I do tend to notice Vietnamese restaurants whenever I travel. I truly don’t think I saw so many places as I did in Copenhagen.

We wound up going to Hanoi Alley in Nørrebro because we were hiding from the rain. As much as I love cafes, I was craving something heartier and nothing tastes as good as beef pho on a cold, rainy day!

Day Trips from Copenhagen

Fredricksborg.

As I mentioned Frederiksborg Slot is like Denmark’s Versailles. It’s about an hour on the train in Hillerød and was built in the 1600s for King Christian IV. It has this huge, Renaissance design, so I’d really like to go one day. We just ran out of time!

Hamlet’s Castle in Helsingør

One castle we did do a day trip for was Kronborg Slot in Helsingør. It’s also about an hour on the train and became famous when Shakespeare set his most famous play there, naming the castle Elsinore. A number of famous actors have participate in productions there from Laurence Olivier to David Tennant ( and me, of course, hehe )! Kind of cool to imagine getting the chance to witness Laurence Olivier acting out Hamlet in the Hamlet castle, but I also spent a whole semester studying that play so that might be a niche interest.

While you’re here there’s also the Maritime Museum which is supposed to be award-winning. Truthfully, I wanted to make sure we had time for the next spot on our list, so we skipped it.

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

About halfway between Kronborg and Copenhagen is a very cool modern art museum. The exhibits have so much going on and the location is right on the coast, so you could easily turn this into a full day trip on its own. The nice thing is that it’s open pretty late, so even if you want until the afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy.

Malmö, Sweden

Fun fact – you can pop over to Sweden in under an hour! Heck, even in the airport you’ll see signs for Malmö. It’s Sweden’s third largest city and sounds like a cool spot to visit on its own whether it’s for historic architecture, castles, or cool museums. Since we didn’t plan to go, I couldn’t tell you what was there exactly but it sounds like people who go enjoy it.

Shopping in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has some really fun shopping whether you’re looking for specific deals at the GANNI Postmodern Outlet or for quirky creations at Studi Arhoj. I mean, there’s a good reason people love Danish interior design and Copenhagen street style. I promise I’ll have a whole other post on shopping to share everywhere we went!

Safety & Health in Copenhagen

You know, I’m sure there’s crime in Copenhagen but this has to have been one of the safest major capital cities I’ve ever been to. The “sketchiest” part was in Freetown Christiania, and honestly, I’ve seen worse on a normal day in HCMC or Philly .

I feel like the worst crime to worry about is pickpockets but even then there doesn’t seem to be a crazy epidemic like in Barcelona and Paris. I mean, this is a city where people just leave their babies in strollers outside of restaurants – it’s a pretty safe city.

Likewise for health – this is the kind of place were you not only can you drink the tap water, it’s actually delicious. And there are so many nice, clean public bathrooms everywhere even in the metro stations.

That’s all I can think of to put into a single Copenhagen travel guide. I’ve got a bunch more posts coming because I really enjoyed this city, but in the meantime let me know if you have any further advice or questions below!

For more Scandinavian travel, read these next:

• 18 Fantastic Things to Do in Bergen, Norway
• Lofoten in the Winter: A Little Guide
• 3 Days in Stockholm: A Beginner Itinerary
• All the Best Things to Do in Örebro, Sweden

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Best 3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide

Posted on March 18, 2022

Categories Blog , City Guides , Denmark , Europe , Travel Guides

This is the best 3 days in Copenhagen itinerary for first time visitors and those who have visited before. 3 days in Copenhagen is the perfect amount of time to experience many attractions and get a good overall sense of the city.

This was my very first solo trip to Europe without Justin or friends. As it turns out, Copenhagen is an amazing place to wander about as a solo female traveler. It’s easy for a native English speaker (everyone speaks English and most signs are written in English), and it’s safe to explore on your own as a woman.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Feel free to reference this Copenhagen travel guide whether you’re traveling on your own, as a couple or with friends. It’s a fantastic city to experience for a European city break. This 3 days in Copenhagen itinerary details everything I visited, saw, and ate, as well as day trips from Copenhagen.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Copenhagen: Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade

I stayed at Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade , a modern, no frills hotel in the middle of town. It’s inexpensive (around $100 Canadian a night) and has your basic needs covered: it’s clean, has a modern design, and has the essentials (bed, shower, bathroom, TV, Wi-Fi).

The rooms are tiny, but it’s best for those who aren’t spending much time in the room anyway. As someone who was looking for a place to rest her head at night, travelling on her own, this hotel was perfect.

The hotel is right in the centre of it all. You can walk everywhere, and there’s a train station down the street. I took public transit from the airport to the subway stop and walked to the hotel (about an 8 minute walk). It’s the perfect place to stay if you have 3 days in Copenhagen: great price and great location.

Book your stay at the Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade as it’s a cheap hotel in Copenhagen with all the amenities you need. Here are more reviews of Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade from other travelers who have stayed there, if you’re looking for more opinions.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

Copenhagen City Card

I highly recommend that you pick up a Copenhagen City Card when you travel to Copenhagen. It might seem a little bit expensive, but the whole city is pretty darn expensive and the card will save you money. You can buy it for 1 – 4 days and it includes an absolute ton of attractions in the city.

The Copenhagen Card for Transportation

I recommend buying your Copenhagen City Card in advance so you can use it straight away without any fuss. The Copenhagen City Card allows you to take public transportation anywhere, including some day trips within Denmark that are outside the city limits (excluding Sweden). This includes public transportation from the airport to the city. For this reason, I recommend that you pick up the pass at the airport and start using it right upon your arrival.

Buy the Copenhagen City Card in advance and bring your receipt to a kiosk at the airport where they’ll hand you your card. Even if you’re feeling sleepy after your flight, it’s one thing you won’t need to worry about if you buy it online ahead of time.

The Top Copenhagen Attractions

There are lots of things to do in Copenhagen. I used the card for transportation, a canal boat tour, admission to the Tivoli Gardens, and admission to other museum and historic attractions during my 3 days in Copenhagen.

If you aren’t sure about what to do in Copenhagen, the Copenhagen City Card provides you with some great ideas. You don’t even have to feel bad about poking your head into a museum for a short amount of time. If you decide that you don’t want to spend a lot of time there, you won’t feel like you wasted your money.

3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary: Day 1 in Copenhagen

I took a direct overnight flight with Air Canada from Toronto to Copenhagen, arriving at around 11 in the morning. By the time I got into town and checked into my hotel, I could have easily crashed and napped. However, I suggest powering through so you can make the most of your day. Also, you’ll combat jet lag by getting to sleep at a usual time, according to your new time zone.

Lunch at Eden Jaxx

I walked down the street from my hotel for about 10-15 minutes until I reached Green Burger, a vegan restaurant that was on my list. Unfortunately, Green Burger has since closed (the photo above shows a burger from Green Burger).

However, I’ve found a great alternative to Green Burger that you might enjoy even more! Eden Jaxx, much like Green Burger, is right on the way to Torvehallern market. It’s also a vegan fast food/burger restaurant, and they have a few locations in Copenhagen now, too.

They specialize in vegan burgers, they have gluten-free fare, and they make their own vegan shakes, too. While I haven’t had the chance to personally try Eden Jaxx yet, it’s a great substitute to the other burger restaurant I previously listed. If you’re looking for more vegan eats in Copenhagen, check out my Copenhagen vegan guide .

Things to Do in Copenhagen: Torvehallern Food Market

Who goes to a food market right after they eat lunch? I love visiting markets on my travels, and I thought to walk through to scope out the vegan options (there were quite a few!). I really enjoyed the Torvehallerne market and ended up returning in the future on another occasion. It’s one of the best things to do in Copenhagen in winter because it’s open all year long.

I suggest poking around the market and stopping for a coffee before you continue your adventures. Or maybe it’s time for second lunch? There’s a Coffee Collective location inside the Torvehallerne market. Also, there is now a Souls Street Food stand that you need to check out (I mention their restaurant a little later in this travel blog post). Stop by at least once here during your 3 days in Copenhagen.

Vegan Finds at Naturbageriet

Looking for vegan or gluten-free baked goods? Naturbageriet is right beside the Torvehallerne market , and it’s a gem. This little bakery always seemed busy with mostly locals, lining up for their favorite treats. Everything is clearly marked as vegan or gluten-free. I stocked up on a few sugary desserts and some croissants for breakfast the next morning.

There’s also a great variety of grocery items, including refrigerated goods like vegan cheeses. If you’re staying for a little while in Copenhagen or have access to a fridge, be sure to stock up here. It was so busy that I couldn’t take photos inside, but I snapped a few through the front window.

3 Days in Copenhagen: It’s Time to Wander

Throughout my 3 days in Copenhagen, I did a whole lot of walking. One of my favorite things to do in Copenhagen in winter (or any season) was wander around. Explore at your own pace. Wander down any cobblestone street that you please.

I walked around the central neighborhood of Indre By (aka ‘inner city’ or downtown Copenhagen), strolling into little shops, taking a peek into churches, and wandering wherever I pleased.

One of the main spots frequented by tourists is Strøget, a pedestrian zone and shopping area in Indre By. It’s one of the longest pedestrian only shopping streets in Europe. Some interesting stops include the Storkespringvandet (Stork Fountain), Helligåndskirken (Church of the Holy Spirit, a 13th century church), and any shops that strike your fancy.

What to See in Copenhagen: Copenhagen City Hall

Once you reach the end of the pedestrian zone, it’s nearly impossible not to see the majestic Copenhagen City Hall building. Designed by architect Martin Nyrop in the National Romantic Style , I happily snapped a bunch of pictures of this building and the statues in front of it.

The city hall building sits at the head of City Hall Square, which is a fantastic meeting place for tourists and locals alike. If you’re a fan of architecture, it tops the list of places to see in Copenhagen.

Fun fact: Copenhagen City Hall was modeled after the municipal building in Siena, Italy . I can definitely see the resemblance! Anyone can come and go from city hall during opening hours, free of charge (Monday – Friday 09:00 – 16:00, Saturday 09:00 – 13:00). There are opportunities for guided tours, and you can only visit the tower with an escort (Monday – Friday at 11:00 and 14:00, Saturday at 12:00 for 30 DKK).

Although I didn’t take a guided tour or visit the tower, I went inside the city hall building to catch a glimpse. The architecture and design of the interior rivals the exterior for its beauty. There was also a small art exhibition happening indoors, which was quite intriguing.

Copenhagen Neighborhoods: Vesterbro

When you spend 3 days in Copenhagen (or 4 days in Copenhagen, or any lengthy amount of time), you should spend some time exploring the various neighborhoods. One of those interesting districts is called Vesterbro. It’s a former meat packing district turned hip hotspot, with independent shops, vintage finds, and the coolest bars and cafes.

I took a stroll down the lengthy shopping street, Istedgate, where I discovered street art and interesting specialty stores. There are also several great coffee shops where you can get your caffeine fix, including Prolog Coffee Bar.

Get Caffeinated at Prolog Coffee Bar

I stumbled upon a small coffee shop called Prolog, which I hadn’t seen on any best coffee in Copenhagen type lists…but it should be on all of them. This was the best coffee that I tried in all of Copenhagen, and I’m an avid coffee drinker.

Prolog Coffee Bar is a really small, cute cafe in Vesterbro. There aren’t too many seats inside, but for warmer days, there’s outdoor seating. Pull up a chair at one of the small tables in the front or snag a spot at the back. I loved the greenery and terrariums hanging about in the back, as well as the randomly scattered shelves along the front wall.

The coffee was delicious. My pour over coffee was prepared with perfectly roasted beans for a rich mug full of the good stuff. I wasn’t offered any milk or sugar, and I didn’t see any of it around. This coffee was meant to be savoured just as it was, and it didn’t even need anything extra added to it. Trust me, drink this coffee black. You won’t regret it.

Interested in more of Copenhagen’s coffee culture? Here are the best coffee shops in Copenhagen you won’t want to miss. Make room for this place on your 3 days in Copenhagen itinerary for sure. For the rest of the afternoon, I wandered between Vesterbro and downtown Copenhagen a little bit more, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

District Tonkin for Dinner

As I was still feeling a little bit jet-lagged and had walked quite a bit, I looked for a restaurant that was near my hotel. I decided to bring the food back to my room to eat it there, rather than dining at the restaurant.

District Tonkin is an authentic Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen (update: they now have three locations in Copenhagen!). It’s not a vegan restaurant, but they serve a few vegan meals that are clearly advertised as such (VG on the menu).

I was a little bit disappointed because they were completely sold out of tofu, and most of the vegan meals had tofu in them.  I ordered some vegetable spring rolls and the rice noodle salad (sans tofu), which was super yummy. They added some extra vegetables to the mix; however, it would have tasted better with some tofu in it. So, that was my first of 3 days in Copenhagen. Ready for day 2?

3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary: Day 2 in Copenhagen

I woke up bright and early to beat the crowds to some of the most popular sights in Copenhagen. It’s never a bad idea to wake up early when you plan to visit popular tourist spots, especially if you’re taking photos. When planning what to see in Copenhagen, sometimes the most popular sites are best viewed in the off hours.

Naturally, my first stop was Nyhavn. It’s right down the street from the hotel I recommend and stayed at, Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade . There were a few other people who were sauntering around early like I was. One of them asked that I take a photo of her in front of the brightly coloured buildings and love locks. Naturally, I asked if she could do the same for me!

Places to See in Copenhagen: Nyhavn

Nyhavn is probably the most iconic spot in Copenhagen. There are rows of colorful buildings along each side of the canal. You’ll also find restaurants, bars, cafes, and an assortment of historic wooden ships and canal tour boats. It’s a must visit during your 3 days in Copenhagen.

While I didn’t stop here for food and drink, I marveled at the spectacular scenery. It’s one of those spots I’ve seen so many times in pictures, so it was amazing to see it with my own eyes. It’s much busier as the day goes on, so if you’d like to see it with very few people around, go early in the morning.

If you’re feeling a little bit hungry between point A and point B, stop by your local 7-Eleven in Copenhagen! Surprisingly, 7-Elevens are really vegan-friendly with loads of plant-based options advertised on billboards in front of the shop.

They have vegan croissants that are delicious, so I grabbed a couple in case I felt a little hungry throughout the day. Still feeling a little bleary-eyed, it was the perfect time to stop for my first coffee of the day.

Coffee Break at Tak for Kaffe

Sadly, the coffee shop that I visited, Cafe Norden, has permanently closed. However, there’s another coffee shop in the same area called Tak for Kaffe that I would suggest visiting for a morning coffee. It’s open early in the morning and it looks like a really cute spot. Adding it to my list for next time! Now that you’re fully caffeinated, let’s continue with this 3 days in Copenhagen travel guide to one of the best attractions in the city.

Canal Boat Tour of Copenhagen

Taking a canal boat tour of Copenhagen is something you simply must do when you travel here. It’s included with your Copenhagen City Card , and the boat ride gives you a unique perspective of the city from the water. The tours are guided, so you might learn a thing or two about Copenhagen.

While offered in multiple languages, everyone on our boat spoke English so the tour was only conducted in English. We drifted around the waterways, catching glimpses of the city from all angles. It reminded me a lot of the canal tour in Amsterdam that Justin and I enjoyed together.

I learned quite a few interesting details about Copenhagen that I wouldn’t have learned elsewhere during my stay. Did you know that Copenhagen burns their garbage for power? And the city doesn’t have enough garbage to burn, so it imports garbage from other countries? We could learn a thing or two from Denmark.

My only time viewing the Little Mermaid statue was from our canal boat tour. The statue is insanely popular, and I didn’t see the point of walking really far to see a tiny statue on the water. I guess it’s iconic, but after seeing these crowds around the Little Mermaid, I was content with my decision to not see her up close. If you’d like to see the Little Mermaid, it’s a far walk from Nyhavn and Indre By, but that’s an option. You can also take a bike tour of Copenhagen where it’s a stop on the guided tour.

I saw the gorgeous Black Diamond Royal Danish Library from the water. Unfortunately, it was closed when I visited (Good Friday and the Easter weekend), but I’d love to return to check out the interior of this beautiful architectural structure.

Even though the wind was chilly on this seasonably cold March day, the sun was shining brightly. I appreciated the changing views all around me. As a city known for its design, the various buildings all over Copenhagen’s canals did not disappoint.

The boat ride lasted about an hour in total. Taking a canal cruise is one of the top things to do in Copenhagen and I highly suggest you visit during your 3 days in Copenhagen. If you didn’t purchase a Copenhagen City Card, you can easily book your Copenhagen canal cruise in advance for a low price.

Guess what…it was time for another coffee! To be fair, my chosen restaurant for lunch wasn’t open for another half an hour, so I decided to wait it out with a hot beverage in my hand.

Den Lille Gule Kaffebar

Den Lille Gule Kaffebar , or The Little Yellow Coffeebar, is right in the middle of downtown Copenhagen. While there’s limited seating inside, pull up a chair and drink your coffee on the patio. If you’re feeling chilly, there are blankets and pillows on every chair so you can feel cozy.

I ordered a black coffee and snuggled under some blankets while sipping it on the patio in late March. After all, you must experience hygge as much as possible when in Denmark! I loved the atmosphere surrounding this small patio, and it’s great for people watching.

Lunch at Riz Raz

Out of my 3 days in Copenhagen, Riz Raz was the most economical meal out of them all, without any sacrifices in quality or taste. Riz Raz has a regular menu, although you’ll want to make a beeline straight for the buffet.

There’s a fully vegetarian buffet, which can be added on to a meal or eaten as the entire meal itself. Most dishes are marked as vegan, and all are vegetarian. There are so many choices, like various salads, pasta, hummus, falafel, and more. And it’s all you can eat!

Climbing the Round Tower

A trip to Copenhagen isn’t complete without a trip to the top of the Round Tower (aka Rundetaarn). Built in the 17th century as an astronomical observatory, it now serves as an observation deck. The Round Tower is one of the best things to do in Copenhagen and one of the most interesting places to see from the exterior and interior of the tower.

The best part of the Round Tower? There aren’t any stairs! Well, there’s a small flight of steps at the very top leading outside. But for the most part, the ascent up the tower is a steady incline. It makes it a little easier to climb to the top for some reason.

The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. Admission to the Round Tower is included with the Copenhagen City Card .

Design Museum Denmark

While I don’t tend to visit a lot of museums when I only have a short period of time in a place, I wanted to check out the history of Scandinavian design for which Denmark is most famous. The Design Museum Denmark provides a glimpse into architectural design, fashion and fabrics, furniture, product design, and even a display about Japanese influences.

In terms of museums, it’s one of the best things to do in Copenhagen. For anyone even mildly interested in design, pay a quick trip to the Design Museum Denmark. It only took me about a half hour to explore the entire museum. Admission was included with the Copenhagen City Card . Add this one to your 3 days in Copenhagen travel guide and plans if you love museums or you’re interested in art or design.

The Marble Church

Frederik’s Church, also known as the Marble Church, is right down the street from the Design Museum and worth checking out. Wander into this peaceful sanctuary to admire the gorgeous art painted inside the dome.

It is the largest church dome in Scandinavia at 31 metres. It reminded me quite a bit of the beautiful churches we witnessed in Italy. It’s a beautiful place to visit, and worthy of a trip during your 3 days in Copenhagen.

Amalienborg

Amalienborg is right across the street from the Marble Church. It’s a complex of four identical palaces that are home to the Danish royal family. This is the seat of one of the world’s oldest monarchies.

Guests can come and go from the palace grounds, including the massive central square into which all of the palaces face. There’s a huge equestrian statue in the middle as a tribute to King Frederick V.

One of the best things to see in Copenhagen is the changing of the guards ceremony. The Royal Life Guard marches from the barracks near Rosenborg Castle, through the streets of Copenhagen, finally arriving at Amalienborg. You can witness the changing of the guard ceremony at noon.

Cub Coffee Bar

It’s possible to walk past this one without even noticing it. CUB Coffee Bar is tucked away in a cozy nook on a side street near the waterfront. With only a couple of tables outside, the coffee bar itself is down a flight of stairs in a shallow basement. Here, you’ll find some delicious and flavorful brews.

To shake things up a little bit, I ordered a flat white with oat milk. The oat milk was rich and creamy, with the right kick of caffeine. During my 3 days in Copenhagen, I drank a lot of yummy coffee.

Iconic Copenhagen Attractions: Tivoli Gardens

The historic Tivoli Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s most prized and famed attractions, and it opened back up for its operating season shortly before my arrival. It’s an iconic and world famous amusement park, with many rides and daily performances. Tivoli Gardens is the world’s second oldest amusement park, and it’s amazing that it’s still thriving after all these years.

It was really busy when I visited as it was the Good Friday holiday. I feel as though going to Tivoli Gardens would be much more exciting with a buddy and not as a solo female traveller. With a friend, you could go on a couple of rides together and share in the excitement. I didn’t really feel like going on rides on my own.

I still enjoyed my visit, wandering around and taking in the sights. Some of my favorite aspects of Tivoli Gardens were the Chinese pantomime theater, the wonderful fountains, and the colorful decorations. My admission was included in the Copenhagen City Card , though ride tickets must be purchased separately. I was happy to go for a wander at Tivoli Gardens during my 3 days in Copenhagen.

If you don’t have a Copenhagen City Card, you can purchase an entrance ticket to Tivoli Gardens ahead of time. There’s also an option for an entrance ticket and unlimited rides , which seems like the best option if you want to experience all of the rides.

Dinner at Chao Viet Kitchen

Update: Chao Viet Kitchen is “temporarily closed” although it’s been for a while. Please let me know if they close for good or end up reopening (fingers crossed they reopen!).

Chao Viet Kitchen is a Vietnamese restaurant with a separate vegan section on the menu. Count me in! I sat by the front window with a view looking out to the street and thoroughly enjoyed my meal. I ordered the Bun Cha Gio Chay, which was a rice noodle dish with spring rolls on top of it. They prepare their own vegan fish sauce for a more traditional taste, leaving out any animal products. To drink, I sipped an iced green tea with lychee and mint.

3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary: Day 3

Even though I still made the most of my day, I took a slightly more relaxed approach to the last of my 3 days in Copenhagen. After all, when your legs, feet, and back are still aching from the day before, you know that you should probably take it a little easier.

Freetown Christiania

My Copenhagen travel guide wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t include Freetown Christiania . I find Christiania to be absolutely fascinating. It is a self-proclaimed autonomous district within Copenhagen that’s determined to be separate from the city, the country, and the European Union. Almost 1000 people live in Christiania, technically as squatters in a former military base.

When you visit Christiania, there are certain rules that you must follow. Photos are allowed, but only in certain areas and definitely not in the Green Light District. Cannabis is sold regularly here, even though it is illegal in Denmark. Those selling it do not want to be photographed.

You also can’t run in Christiania (as it creates panic because it could signify a police raid or violent acts). Weapons and violent acts are prohibited.

Although Christiania is a very peaceful place, I still had an eerie feeling as I walked through its streets. As I visited on a Sunday morning, there weren’t many people around. With lots of graffiti and buildings kept in questionable repair, I was wondering just how safe it was to be wandering around by myself. It is really safe to go there (guided tours visit all the time). Please be respectful of the residents and their wishes.

In my opinion, it had a bit of a post-apocalyptic vibe, but I really felt as though I stumbled upon a unique place with a totally different atmosphere than anywhere else in the city. There’s some stunning street art here, although much of it is along Pusher Street where you cannot take photos. You’ll just have to go to see for yourself.

Nørrebro District

The Nørrebro district shouldn’t be missed, especially if you love wandering around neighborhoods in new places. It’s a multicultural area of Copenhagen, where one out of every six inhabitants has a non-Danish passport.

You’ll find a multitude of quirky shops, restaurants, and parks. There’s colorful street art covering some walls and sides of buildings. I spent the second half of my day exploring Nørrebro by popping into little boutiques and artist’s shops, sipping coffee, wandering around parks, and eating delicious vegan food, of course!

The streets near the waterfront have so many cafes, shops, and restaurants. I zigzagged around winding side streets, finding vintage clothing stores and vegan ice cream shops. A big part of my afternoon was spent walking around here, looking in shops, and enjoying a brisk March day in an unexplored territory. Throughout my 3 days in Copenhagen, I really enjoyed exploring Nørrebro for its street art and interesting shops.

Brunch at Flavour Bastards

Sadly, the restaurant that I originally dined at for lunch has closed (Plant Power Food). I have found a great replacement spot in the neighbourhood called Flavour Bastards . It’s a vegan restaurant that’s open for brunch on weekends. There are a couple of other vegan spots in the neighbourhood, like Pow Vegan Pizza (open later in the day for dinner) and Kaf (a cozy cafe with vegan cakes).

Copenhagen Shopping: Jægersborggade

The best shopping street in Nørrebro is Jægersborggade. I’ve never seen so many interesting shops all in a row, as I nearly wanted to go into each one. You can find artists’ paintings, stores devoted entirely to kitchen wares, housewares, crafts, clothes, and much more.

As many things are pretty expensive in Copenhagen, I also saw some high price tags! But, if you’re seeking out that perfect gift or looking to splurge on something really cool, chances are you’ll find it down Jægersborggade.

Copenhagen in 3 Days: Superkilen Park

If you’re into design and something a little bit different, head to Superkilen Park in Nørrebro. It’s often called Europe’s strangest public park , and I thoroughly enjoyed meandering through the Green Park, Black Square, and Red Square. The Black Square was the most visually appealing, with swirling lines reminiscent of a bike path gone awry.

The park celebrates diversity by including monuments paying tribute to over 60 nationalities, whether it’s trash bins from England, swings from Iraq, or manhole covers from Zanzibar. There are 108 artifacts and plants representing the ethnic diversity of Nørrebro. When spending 3 days in Copenhagen, a trip to this quirky collection of parks is a must.

Dinner at ARK (Formerly Souls)

Wandering back from Nørrebro, I stopped at Souls for dinner (now called ARK ). I’ll show you what I ate at Souls, although the company has undergone a bit of a rebranding. Souls Street Food opens in April 2022 (might be similar to what I ate?), ARK is a fine dining restaurant, and Bistro Lupa is their plant-based bistro.

There are so many choices on the menu for every taste. Burgers, ramen noodles, pizza, pancakes, smoothies… it’s the comforting food that you love. I ordered the BBQ seitan burger (marinated seitan strips, cole slaw, BBQ sauce) and the tempura cauliflower bites. The tempura cauliflower starter were little morsels of deliciousness. The seitan burger was flavourful and meaty, something that any herbivore or carnivore would devour.

You’ll likely be able to find the food I ate from Souls at the new Souls restaurant, Souls Street Food. ARK is a Green Michelin Starred restaurant and our fine dining establishment, serving an innovative and season inspired 9 Course Tasting Menu.

Want to see more photos of Copenhagen?

View all of our Copenhagen travel photography in one place! You can also browse the buying options for each photograph for lovely gifts.

Day Trip from Copenhagen to Malmo and Lund, Sweden

There are so many things to do in Copenhagen. This is one Scandinavian city that you simply must visit. I had a fourth day in the region, so I hopped on a train and went to Malmö and Lund, Sweden . That’s another thing that I love about Copenhagen. I could take a 30 minute train ride and be in another country!

If you have 4 days in Copenhagen, be sure to add a day in Malmo and Lund , returning to Copenhagen in the early evening. If you don’t feel like taking the trip on your own, you can opt for a guided tour of Malmo and Lund as a day trip.

I hope you enjoyed this incredibly lengthy Copenhagen travel guide, with every detail of what to do in Copenhagen. I highly recommend spending 3 days in Copenhagen as it’s the perfect amount of time to get a good feel for the city. Happy travel planning!

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Monday 1st of June 2020

Hi Lauren! Thanks for this travel post.

I always wanted to visit Copenhagen. I love coloured houses, sea, many castles and heir food looks delicious, but I never decided to visit because of high prices. Main problem is low salaries in my country. What do you think, will prices go down because of Corona? Few days ago I planed my entire trip to Copenhagen, decided on hotel Continental, found plane tickets, searched entire Internet for travel blogs and travel tips like this one searched all locations available for tourists at http://www.kortkoebenhavn.com and price is still above my budget. I was also thinking on Airbnb to lower the prices bu I really like hotels when travelling that far. To be honest I still can't decide. Time will tell.

Dario, I am not sure, but most likely not. It is a very expensive country. I know that dining out killed a lot of my budget! The hotel I stayed at (and recommend in this article) was definitely a budget hotel that was still very clean and nice and in an excellent location. That really helped my budget. I also got the Copenhagen Card (as I recommend as well) which helped with attractions and public transit costs. Take a look at those options and see if it brings costs down a little bit for you.

Nina | Lemons and Luggage

Saturday 4th of January 2020

I have to go back to Copenhagen after reading this. I really didn't like it when I was there. It was summer, but the weather was gray and gloomy. And I didn't feel very safe there (I find Scandinavian men a bit creepy when traveling solo as a woman). But you seem to have had a much better experience and better weather. And since I also didn't get to see the Little Mermaid that might be another reason to go back. Though I agree with you that these super busy sights are usually not worth it.

Sarah kiernan

Friday 4th of October 2019

This is amazingly detailed, I rely on people like you to make sure I don’t miss out anything worth seeing. I appreciate you and your travelling so much! Thanks for all the coffee tips, from one coffee lover to another. Lots of love!

Thank you so much, Sarah! I'm so happy you found the article useful. Have an amazing time in Copenhagen!

Krunal Sanghvi

Tuesday 10th of September 2019

Can you please tell me which month you visited copenhagen ? I am planning to visit in 1st week of march 2020 for 3-4 days right after my finland trip. Please reply, it will be very helpful.

I visited at the end of March! It was apparently a little colder than usual when I visited as I had a friend travel there a few weeks prior and tell me that it wasn't very cold out. It was the last week of March when I went. I hope that's helpful!

jonharington

Monday 15th of July 2019

We are planning to visit Denmark next month. Your blog on Copenhagen is very impressive and the pics u was taken from the city streets are very impressive the architecture of the city is so nice. especially the Canal Boat Tour and the city view is beautiful.

1 Day In Copenhagen: Complete Guide For 2024

Are you planning to only spend 1 day in Copenhagen?

Whether you’re taking a day trip from Malmö, have a layover from a flight or simply only have 1 day in Copenhagen, you might be wondering how much of the city you can actually see in just 24 hours or less.

There is so much on offer in the city, and while it seems like there is way too much for one day, you can definitely get a good taste of what Copenhagen is all about.

As a Copenhagen expert, and having spent a ton of time in the city, I have created the best way to spend a day in Copenhagen and a complete guide on how to turn it from an itinerary into a reality.

So without further ado, let’s start planning your jam-packed day in the Danish capital.

Is It Possible To See Copenhagen In 1 Day?

Stop 1: nyhavn, stop 2: little mermaid statue, stop 3: rosenborg castle, stop 4: torvehallernekbh, stop 5: round tower, stop 6: christiansborg palace, stop 7: tivoli gardens, bonus stops: freetown christiania, copenhagen zoo, botanical gardens or national museum of denmark, how to get around copenhagen, where to stay for 1 day in copenhagen, copenhagen 1 day: faq, 1 day in copenhagen: conclusion.

While it’s not possible to see everything in Copenhagen, it’s definitely possible to get a decent overview of Copenhagen.

Many of the best things to do in Copenhagen involve sightseeing, which doesn’t take too long, especially if you make use of hop-on hop-off buses and canal tours.

But don’t worry, you still have time to squeeze in one or two attractions on top of simply seeing the sights.

That being said, to get the best experience in Copenhagen, it’s a case of “less is more”, which goes in line with the Danish attitude of hygge.

So this is how I would recommend spending 1 day in Copenhagen.

1 Day In Copenhagen Itinerary

There are three main options to choose from when planning how to spend one day in Copenhagen. The options are:

• Hop-on hop-off bus tour
• DIY sightseeing

If you choose to take one of the first two options, it will leave you more time to do more of the attractions rather than just seeing the sights, but if you choose to do it DIY, you save money and have more flexibility and time to spend at each sight.

Personally, I would recommend a combination of the last two options. Taking a canal tour of Copenhagen is something I consider a “must-do” as it offers a unique but beautiful perspective on the city, but it doesn’t show you every sight, so you still need to do some sightseeing for yourself.

If you choose to do it yourself, this is the route I would recommend following:

Begin your day in the most famous canal in Copenhagen, Nyhavn. Nyhavn is usually used as the “poster image” of Copenhagen. It’s what you see on websites, Instagram, leaflets, flight deals, magazines, and pretty much every postcard.

If you aren’t familiar, Nyhavn is the canal with the colored houses running along each side of the canal. Seeing it in real life doesn’t disappoint- it’s truly stunning, and the atmosphere in the area is really relaxed too – it’s a cozy part of Copenhagen.

For those who opt to do a canal tour, you can begin and end your canal tour in Nyhavn, so it’s the best place to head to start your day, regardless of your plans.

Most people will spend about 30 minutes at Nyhavn, taking some pictures and simply watching the world go by. Depending on what time of the day your itinerary begins, you could choose to enjoy a meal in one of the many bars and restaurants lining the street. Note that it will be very expensive as it’s a tourist hotspot, and bear in mind that Copenhagen is expensive even at the best of times.

After spending some time at Nyhavn, make your way to the Little Mermaid Statue, another of the city’s famous sights. It’s just over a 20-minute walk between the two.

To be honest, the statue doesn’t live up to the expectations of most people who see it. It’s pretty small and underwhelming, so if you’re short on time, maybe skip this sight. But if you do have time, you can’t visit Copenhagen without seeing the Little Mermaid Statue.

The area surrounding the Little Mermaid is also really nice. If you have some spare time, it’s worth walking around the park. The classical windmill is one of the highlights, along with a small church.

Next up is one of Denmark’s many castles and palaces, and it’s one of the most popular. Rosenborg Castle is just under a 30-minute walk from the Little Mermaid, so this is the one time I recommend using a form of transport.

There is no Uber in Copenhagen , but there are taxis. It will take just over 5 minutes to drive between the two, so it’s worth the money for the time you save.

Rosenborg Castle is beautiful, the red bricks and green roof go perfectly together. While it’s really nice to admire from the outside, it’s just as impressive on the inside.

The castle is home to the Danish crown jewels, so you are able to see all of the crowns and other treasures. It’s also included in the Copenhagen Card, which is worth getting if you only have one day in Copenhagen as it includes entry into all of the attractions for free, plus free public transport, so you can save time on getting between the stops on this itinerary.

Most people will spend between 45 minutes and an hour at Rosenborg Castle.

By this point in the day, you’ll have done a lot of walking and since it’s such a jam-packed day, it can get tiring. So after enjoying your time at Rosenborg, take the short ten-minute walk to TorvehallerneKBH, a food market where you’re guaranteed to find something tasty.

I recommend trying Smørrebrød, which is a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich. If you don’t have too much time in the city, you can get a taste of the culture in Copenhagen, in the literal sense, through its cuisine.

Make sure you don’t spend too much time sitting down and enjoying your food though…time is short!

With a full stomach, you’ll probably want to walk at a leisurely pace for this one, but thankfully it’s only 7 minutes of walking away.

The Round Tower offers the best view over Copenhagen. You get a stunning panoramic view in every direction all over the city. Even on cloudy days, the view is still impressive.

Copenhagen is nicknamed the City of Spires, and when you’re at the top of the Round Tower, you’ll see why. There are so many pretty spires standing high above the other buildings in Copenhagen.

Also, if you don’t like spiral staircases, don’t worry. The Round Tower doesn’t have a staircase, it’s just a continuous rising walkway that goes round and round the tower until you reach the top.

From the Round Tower, you’re able to see the next stop on this Copenhagen one-day itinerary, and that is the Danish Parliament, Christiansborg Palace.

Make sure you go into the courtyard of Christiansborg, as it offers an even nicer view than from the main street. There are usually horses which make for a nice foreground in a photograph with the palace behind.

Depending on what time of the day it is, you can choose to go inside the palace too. Like Rosenborg Castle, the inside is arguably even more breathtaking than the outside. Note that there are airport-like security checks since it is the parliament.

Also, if you have even more spare time, you can also go up to the top of the tower of the palace for another panoramic view, but personally, I think the one from the Round Tower is better.

The final place you will visit with only one day in Copenhagen is Tivoli Gardens, which is the reason many people choose to visit Copenhagen in the first place.

Tivoli Gardens is spectacular. Few words can describe the atmosphere in and around the park.

It’s one of the oldest theme parks in the world, and if you ask me, it’s even more magical than Disney, especially at Christmas time when it transforms into a winter wonderland.

Most people will spend a good few hours in the park, so make sure to allocate it a good amount of time. There are also places to eat and drink in the park, so if you are looking for a second meal for the day, it’s easy to find one in Tivoli.

Unfortunately, Tivoli Gardens does close at some points throughout the year, so if it is closed when you are visiting Copenhagen, simply exchange it for one of the bonus stops below.

If you have a longer day in Copenhagen, or you took a hop-on hop-off bus tour and saw all the sights quickly, or you rushed through all of them than the average person, or if Tivoli Gardens is closed, you might be looking for something else to do.

Well, thankfully, Copenhagen has a lot of attractions that you can check out.

Freetown Christiania is a neighborhood in Copenhagen where, long story short, laws don’t apply and they make their own rules. It’s pretty cool to check out, one of the most unique things you can do in Copenhagen for sure.

Copenhagen Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world. It’s home to several rare animals such as pandas, polar bears, and more which aren’t in other zoos. Plus, it’s very animal-friendly with large enclosures and you can tell the animals are really well looked after.

The Botanical Gardens in Copenhagen are extraordinary, and the Palm House in particular is well worth a visit. The spiral staircase in the Palm House is one of the most photographable spots in the city.

Lastly, the National Museum of Denmark is the most popular museum in Copenhagen. It’s pretty much got a full history of Denmark from well before the Vikings right up until recent history. If you’re into history, it’s a must-visit.

All of these attractions are definitely worth checking out, and you won’t be disappointed no matter which one you choose to visit.

There are a few options for how to get around the city, but when you only have one day in Copenhagen, you can’t afford to take a taxi between everything as it will quickly add up.

Throughout this post, I’ve given the walking times, as it’s my best recommendation. It’s free, and it allows you to see the streets of Copenhagen and get a feel of the atmosphere and the vibe of the city as you walk between the sights and attractions. Spoiler alert: the atmosphere is amazing; it’s one of the safest cities in the world, and you can feel it.

If you want to really live like a local for a day, then cycle. Copenhagen is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in the world, even above Amsterdam, and it allows you to get between things quicker than by walking.

A third option is to take public transport, which is very prompt and reliable in Copenhagen. And if you do buy the Copenhagen Card as mentioned earlier, you get it for free for 24 hours, including to and from the airport.

When you only have one 1 day in Copenhagen, the best area to stay in is near the central station, København H. It’s where you get the train from and to the airport.

This is because you don’t want to spend too much time getting to and from your accommodation and the sights, and getting to and from your accommodation to the central station.

When I designed this itinerary, it was made with the assumption you stay in this area, as if you plot the stops out on a map, it makes a circular route between the sights, ending at Tivoli Gardens which is pretty near the station.

It’s the most time-efficient way of visiting the city, and when you only have one day, every minute counts. There are lots of nice hotels in the area, so you aren’t short of choices for finding somewhere to stay.

Below are some questions related to one day in Copenhagen along with answers to each question.

What you can’t miss in Copenhagen?

You can’t visit Copenhagen without seeing Nyhavn. It’s the famous canal in Copenhagen with colored houses lining the canal. It’s beautiful, and it’s impossible to visit Copenhagen without seeing it.

How much time do you need to see Copenhagen?

Most people will spend 2-3 days in Copenhagen to see all of the sights and visit the main attractions at a leisurely pace. That being said, it is possible to visit Copenhagen and see most of the sights in one day.

Is 1 day enough for Copenhagen?

1 day is not enough to see and do everything in Copenhagen, but it is enough time to get a good glimpse into life in Copenhagen. You can see most of the sights and check out one or two of the attractions, so you get a small overview of the city.

And there you have it, a complete guide to spending one day in Copenhagen.

Remember, if you are clever with your time, you can get a good taste of Copenhagen and what it has to offer.

But at the same time, if you can, definitely dedicate more than a day to Copenhagen. It deserves it- and the way of life in the city is so laid-back, so it’s best to visit Copenhagen without rushing.

That being said, one day is better than no days. So enjoy your time in the city- it’s incredible!

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Copenhagen Solo Travel: Ultimate Guide 2024

Planning a solo trip to Copenhagen?

You’ve come to the right place as I’m a full-time traveller and I’ve solo travelled in Copenhagen on multiple trips.

Before visiting a city, especially solo, there are so many questions to find out the answers to.

My Copenhagen Solo Travel guide will tell you everything you need to know before taking on Denmark by yourself.

Don’t worry- it’s a really easy city for travelling solo! I had a great time during my 3 days in Copenhagen.

Copenhagen Solo Travel

If you’re considering booking a solo trip to Copenhagen- do it!

Copenhagen is an amazing place for solo travelling.

There are fantastic hostel options, the people are really friendly, and most importantly, it’s safe.

It’s also possible to visit Copenhagen on a budget . Although Copenhagen is an incredibly expensive place to go to, it’s not impossible to save some money too.

During my 3 days solo in Copenhagen, I spent just under 1800 DKK (roughly equivalent to £217 / $261 / €241). Compare this to the amount some other people spend, I don’t think it’s too bad.

Copenhagen solo travel is a memorable experience. There are a number of exciting things to do in the city, and a good number of them are free.

I was humming and hawing about booking a trip to Copenhagen on my own as it’s not generally a popular place for solo travel , unlike solo travelling Southeast Asia , for example.

But I had a great time! I would recommend it to anyone. As always with solo travel, you can do exactly what you want whenever you want, can eat wherever you like, and grow as a person.

So go ahead and book that trip!

Is Copenhagen Safe For Solo Travel?

Yes! Copenhagen is safe for solo travel . Copenhagen is safe for anyone and everyone, I actually have a complete guide to “ Is Copenhagen safe? ” and the answer is yes!

Copenhagen is the safest city in the world , so you can travel without any safety concerns, even by yourself.

Knowing somewhere is safe is very reassuring and makes a solo trip much easier. Copenhagen solo travel is beginning to seem less intimidating, right?

As I said, it’s an amazing part of the world, and I would encourage anyone to visit , especially solo travellers.

Throughout my time there, I was walking around on my own (even at night) quite often, and I never felt unsafe or had any safety concerns.

Of course, everything is down to personal experience and someone may have had an unsafe time in Copenhagen, but generally speaking, it’s the safest place in the world.

Take a look at this photo. The locals don’t even lock their bikes. That’s how safe Copenhagen is…

Meeting People In Copenhagen

To be honest, you aren’t going to meet as many people in Copenhagen as you would solo travelling somewhere more popular like Thailand or Brazil , but you will still meet some great people.

As always with solo travelling, there are ways to help yourself to meet new people. I always recommend learning the basics of the languag e of the country you are visiting, in this case, Danish.

I use Duolingo personally. It’s always nice to try to speak the language (hello, thanks, etc.) even though I found most Danish people speak English really, really well!

But the easiest and most common way to meet people while on your own is by staying in a hostel . This is how I met 2 friends in Copenhagen!

You could also use apps for solo travellers to meet other people in the city on their own. But I still prefer the old-school hostel method.

Best Hostel In Copenhagen

In my opinion, the best hostel in Copenhagen is Next House Copenhagen . Copenhagen solo travel trip? Stay here! It’s such a good hostel that I wrote a full Next House Copenhagen review .

It’s the fanciest and most luxurious hostel I have ever stayed in (but still affordable!). You get a private pod in your room as opposed to normal bunk beds in a dorm. It’s great to have a little bit of privacy while still having the social aspect of staying in a room with multiple people.

There are also multiple bars and restaurants, meaning there are lots of opportunities to meet new people.

Not to mention the football pitch, gym and arcade games on offer too. It’s a perfect hostel for meeting people.

I couldn’t recommend it enough and I would be back in a heartbeat.

I would particularly suggest staying here if this is your first solo trip , as it allows for a bit of privacy to ease you into hostel life. There are lots of differences between a hostel and a hotel after all!

🏨Book your stay in Next House Copenhagen by clicking here .

Things To Do Solo In Copenhagen

There are many things to do in Copenhagen during your time there. I have handpicked the best things to do that are especially applicable to Copenhagen solo travel. You want to meet people right? I always say that in solo travel, although you are travelling by yourself, you are rarely actually alone. It’s one of the reasons I love it so much!

1) Take a walking tour: One of the best things to do when travelling solo anywhere in the world is to take a walking tour. A walking tour of Copenhagen allows you to see many of the city’s main sights, as well as be a part of a tour group, providing the chance to meet new people. There are usually a few solo travellers.

2) Take a bike tour: If walking tours aren’t your thing, a bike tour is another great option. Similar to the walking tours, it allows you to see the city as well as meet new people. But a bike tour of Copenhagen is especially good as Copenhagen is very cycle-friendly, it’s how the locals get around the city.

3) Take a canal tour: And a third tour option, which I would do on top of one or even both of the previous two is to take a canal tour. The canal tours in Copenhagen are unreal, the city is so pretty and seeing it from the unique perspective of the canal is amazing. The tour boats are always busy, so you’re guaranteed to find someone to talk to.

4) Visit Nyhavn: The most popular tourist spot in Copenhagen is Nyhavn. If you are on a Copenhagen solo travel trip, you are gonna want to spend a good amount of time here. It’s always really busy, with loads of tourists. This means it’s really easy to meet people!

5) Visit Tivoli Gardens: One of the easiest places to make new friends in Copenhagen is Tivoli Gardens. As a theme park, it’s a fun place, right? So it’s already an easy place to meet people. But there are also lots of good food options, meaning you can sit down and have a nice meal with some people you just met. What better way to get to know someone than over delicious food?

6) Visit Rosenborg: This is more just to visit because it’s a cool place. Rosenborg castle is home to the Danish crown jewels, and they’re amazing to look at. And of course, the castle itself is unique and beautiful in its architecture.

7) Visit Christiansborg: Again, this is “just” another must-visit in Copenhagen. Christiansborg is a beautiful building in Copenhagen which is also the Danish parliament. You can walk around Chrstiansborg and through the courtyard, it’s stunning.

8) Swim in the harbour baths: A fun and unique way to meet people could be in the harbour baths. The Islands Brygge Harbour Bath is a natural swimming pool and a popular spot in Copenhagen. Though I’m not sure I would do this if you visit Copenhagen in January as I did!

9) Get a panoramic view of Copenhagen: Personally, when solo travelling I always love to get a view over the city’s skyline. There are endless opportunities for this in Copenhagen. 3 examples are the Round Tower, Christiansborg Tower, and the Church of our Saviour. Each of these offers a beautiful look over the city.

10) Take part in a pub crawl: Lastly, as a solo traveller, a really easy way to meet new people is by taking part in a Copenhagen pub crawl . It’s so so easy to make new friends, as well as get a taste of the excellent Copenhagen nightlife. An absolute must-do for solo travellers!

How To Get Around Solo In Copenhagen

One of the reasons that Copenhagen solo travel is so great is that everything is within walking distance. If you stay in Next House Copenhagen or anywhere near Copenhagen Central Station, you are within a 5-minute walk of Tivoli Gardens, a 20-minute walk of Nyhavn, etc.

Copenhagen is a very walkable city which is great if you are visiting on a budget. I personally always walk anywhere when travelling solo as it allows me to get a glimpse of the city away from the tourist attractions.

Copenhagen Solo Travel: FAQ

Below are a number of questions related to Copenhagen solo travel along with my answers.

Yes, Copenhagen is an amazing place for solo travel. Although it’s not famous as a popular solo travel destination, it’s definitely possible to visit Copenhagen solo. There are lots of great hostel options as well as lots of fun things to do by yourself.

While I’m not female, I did meet some solo female travellers in Copenhagen during my time there. They seemed to really enjoy the city and we actually talked once about how Copenhagen is the safest city in the world.

Denmark is incredibly safe. It’s definitely safe to solo travel. Especially in Copenhagen, which is the safest city in the whole world.

If you are visiting Copenhagen alone, the best things to do are a walking tour or a bike tour. As these allow you to see the city and the main attractions as well as meet new people. You can also take part in a Copenhagen pub crawl, which is a very easy opportunity to meet new people.

Copenhagen Solo Travel: Conclusion

And there you have it, a complete Copenhagen solo travel guide.

Whether it’s your first solo trip or your 100th, you will LOVE Copenhagen.

It’s an amazing city and a city that works perfectly for solo travellers.

So book those flights! Book that hostel! And enjoy your trip to Denmark 🙂

Learn more about Copenhagen:

• Is There Uber In Copenhagen?
• Is Copenhagen Expensive To Visit?
• How to say Copenhagen in Danish
• Copenhagen to Legoland: Ultimate Guide
• Can You Drink Tap Water In Copenhagen?
• Is Denmark Expensive To Visit?

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

• Smart Living

Everything to Pack For a Trip to Copenhagen, According to an Editor

Published on 3/26/2024 at 4:20 PM

In 'Pack With Me,' influencers and editors give us a rundown of their travel must-haves and a few travel hacks to go along with them. For our second installment, our Assitant Commerce editor shares what essentials are in her suitcase for a trip to Copenhagen.

Perhaps the colorful, canal-ridden city of Copenhagen, Denmark has been at the top of your travel wish list for some time, or you've been recently influenced to immerse yourself in the quirky Danish capital. ( Season 2 of "The Bear" might have been indirectly responsible for my own recent voyage to the Scandinavian city.) Regardless of what's inspired your interest in one of Northern Europe's most charming towns, you're bound to have a memorable experience. From eccentric Danish ceramics and pastries galore to historic castles and the universally beloved practice of hygge , there's so much to see and even more to love about Copenhagen — just make sure you're prepared for the occasional afternoon rainstorm. Ahead, read our complete guide on what to pack for Copenhagen to help you make the best use of your time while you're there.

Best Packing Tips For Copenhagen

I am a carry-on girlie through and through, which means that my number one packing tip can be applied to pretty much any vacation: pack light. I've had far too many negative experiences losing luggage when I've checked bags, so I've resorted to simply condensing all of my travel essentials — even up to two weeks worth of items — into a carry-on suitcase . Not only has it removed the headache of tracking my luggage (especially for longer trips that might involve connecting flights or layovers), but it's also proven to make my on-the-ground travel in Europe much more manageable.

In Copenhagen specifically, many boutique hotels are older and smaller, meaning you'll often have to carry luggage up flights of stairs or squeeze it into the corner of a very tight room. Copenhagen is also popular because of its vicinity to other major European countries like Sweden, which can be visited by train from Denmark. While most trains have ample storage for larger suitcases, carry-on bags are definitely a safer bet.

With all this in mind, I've found that a carry-on is a much better luggage option than a checked bag in Copenhagen. Additionally, if you're struggling with fitting all of your clothing items into a smaller suitcase, I recommend trying these editor-approved Monos Compressible Packing Cubes , or purchasing these Cozy Essential Vacuum Storage Bags ($25, originally $30).

Best Travel Tips For Copenhagen

Whether you're only visitng Copenhagen for a couple days or a few weeks, I recommend investing in the Copenhagen Card , which essentially acts as a city pass. Prices vary, but most packages include free entrance to some of the city's top attractions, as well as free unlimited transportation.

This meant that during my trip, I never had to worry about reserving tickets separately for attractions (whether it be canal boat tours or entrance into Rosenberg Castle), nor did I have to purchase individual tickets for any of the public transportation options, like buses or trains. Everything was conveniently included in the Copenhagen Card, and all for a price that was much more feasible than if I had to buy everything separately. The card was easy to access on my phone; I simply activated it when I landed and then pulled up the provided QR code accordingly for different attractions.

If you're wondering what to what to pack for Europe — including the best travel adapter — or what to wear for winter in Denmark, I created the ultimate packing guide, with firsthand recommendations that come right off the heels of my own trip to Copenhagen. From the best compression socks for longer flights and durable luggage that can withstand the city's cobblestone streets to comfortable walking shoes you'll feel good wearing all day, and even a reusable travel cup that'll help keep you hydrated while you're on the go, these expert-approved travel essentials will ensure your next trip abroad is seamless, regardless of your budget.

A Must Have Beauty Essential

Nivea Creme ($7)

I have notoriously dry skin, which becomes even more fragile and cracked during the winter months. To help keep my hands nourished and hydrated in the midst of Copenhagen's brisk winter temperatures, I relied on this travel-size hand lotion, which boasts all the same benefits of Nivea's beloved body lotions, but in a compact tin that's easy to squeeze into my personal carry-on bag or everyday travel bag.

A Must Have Wellness Essential

Dramamine Ginger Chews ($8, originally $9)

Much like Amsterdam, one of the most distinct elements of Copenhagen is its famous canals — particularly Nyhavn. The city offers a number of different canal boat tours which visitors can take to see the town's neighborhoods (and colorful buildings) through a new lens. I'm someone who's very sensitive to movement and have been a victim of motion sickness many times before — whether in cars, on boats, or even on trains. To prepare, I packed these ginger chews, which work to alleviate nausea, and also fit conveniently in my crossbody bag. These were especially useful while on the boat tour and even when we took a train over to Malmö, Sweden.

Charmking Compression Socks ($13)

It's no secret that traveling to Europe often requires some long flying times, but traveling to Copenhagen proved to be especially lengthy since I was departing from the West Coast of the United States and en route to a less touristy airport (at least in comparison to London Heathrow or Charles de Gaulle in Paris) — which meant direct flights were limited and layovers were inevitable. For longer flights, I turn to my favorite pair of compression socks to maintain blood flow and limit any potential swelling in my feet. This particular set is great because the styles are ankle-length and don't feel as constricting as calf-length variations.

A Must Have Tech Essential

Newvanga Universal Travel Adapter ($17, originally $20)

If you've traveled abroad before, then you already know that most wall outlets and sockets are shaped differently in Europe than they are in the United States. This means that everyday items like phone chargers or hair dryers can't be plugged in normally, at least not without the help of a universal travel adapter. I recommend this model, which has accompied me on various trips abroad. It's affordable, compact, and features multiple ports so that I can charge several items simultaneously.

iWalk Small Portable Charger ($30)

A portable phone charger or power bank is essential regardless of where you're traveling, but I found it to be especially important in Copenhagen. Whether it be taking photos, relying on my Maps app to guide me around the city, or even pulling out my Google Translate to better understand the Danish language, having my phone fully charged was so necessary in ensuring a seamless, stress-free trip. See how advanced this power bank is in our review of the iWalk Portable Charger .

A Must Have Fashion Essential

Transparent Folding Rain Umbrella ($14)

While the weather in Denmark can change from season to season, rain is pretty much a year-round occurrence — especially in the winter months. Even if the forecast doesn't show rain during the dates of your trip, I recommend packing an umbrella just in case, as I encountered several afternoon rain storms during my visit. This foldable umbrella is my favorite because it's compact (easy to fit into a small travel bag); lightweight (easy to carry around or hang from your wrist); and transparent, which means I could still take in the sights of the city without obstruction thanks to its see-through design.

Uniqlo Heattech Leggings ($20)

Layers for winter? Groundbreaking. Except these Heattech leggings from Uniqlo are actually pretty innovative and designed to provide better heat insulation than most thermals. I love that the pants are supremely comfortable and warm, yet still lightweight enough that I don't feel too constricted while wearing them underneath jeans or sweatpants. Get a full breakdown on what makes this thermal line so great in this review of Uniqlo Heattech .

NA-KD Fashion Soft Braided Tassle Scarf ($28, originally $40)

Denmark winters can get pretty cold. I traveled to Copenhagen in late February and was lucky to visit during a warmer spell (warmer is being used very loosely here). Temperatures ranged between 30 degrees and 40 degrees Fahrenheit with pretty heavy cloud coverage. I run cold anyway, which meant that heavy layers and plenty of winter accessories were essential in staying comfortable and warm throughout the day. I wore this oversize polyester scarf on repeat and loved that it not only provided ample warmth around my neck, but also matched perfectly with every outfit that I packed.

New Balance 574 Core Sneakers ($90)

Even with a wide array of public transportation options, you're bound to do a lot of walking in Copenhagen; it's the best way to take in the sights of the city, after all. Naturally, you'll want to pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes that you can feel confident relying on for those longer days outside of the rental or hotel. These New Balance shoes are one of the best pairs of sneakers I own, with cushiony soles that support my feet and have enough bounce-back to put a little extra pep in my step. I switched between these and another pair of New Balance 9060 sneakers throughout the duration of my trip.

A Must Have Travel Essential

Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels ($270, originally $321)

Copenhagen is known as one of Europe's most walkable cities, with public transportation options that are easy to use, whether it be via metro, bus, or bike. The city's railway line also connects directly to the airport, so you're able to take a train right into the heart of Copenhagen — or in my case, right to my Airbnb, which was located near the Nørreport station.

Because I opted to take the train to my rental rather than an Uber, this also meant that I needed to commute a short distance from the railway station to my Airbnb (about a five-minute walk, to be specific). Copenhagen is an old city adorned with hundreds of cobblestone streets, which could pose a problem if I wasn't equipped with the right luggage. Fortunately, I traveled with my go-to Delsey carry-on, which features durable spinner wheels that have 360-direction, so I was able to roll my hard-side luggage behind me with ease — even over the bumpiest cobblestone surfaces. Learn more about the suitcase in this review of Delsey Hardside Luggage .

Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on POPSUGAR Shopping, where she reviews trending products, monitors commerce trends, develops thoughtful affiliate strategies, and relies on her unique expertise to compile helpful shopping guides for consumers that span a number of verticals — including fashion, home, beauty, and wellness. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.

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Forget Sydney, Tokyo, or New York City, This Is the World’s Top Coffee Destination

The Dane's have perfected coffee and developed a culture around it in this Scandinavian city.

Hillary Eaton is a food and travel writer who has lived in Vancouver, Los Angeles, New Zealand, Vienna, and Copenhagen. When not writing about the hospitality industry she is working in it. Responsible for multiple award-winning restaurants, her projects have earned accolades such as Food & Wine's Best Restaurants in the World (2020), Conde Nast Traveler Hot List (2021) and 50 Best Discovery.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Copenhagen is incredibly Danish. While that may feel like it's stating the obvious, it's an important note, as other cities that sport similar international clout have all too often become copycats of one another, losing that intangible "it" factor that makes them feel unique. But not Copenhagen. And especially not its coffee scene, which is why the 2024 Global Tastemakers panel of travel and drinks experts deemed the city its Plus One pick — a place that must be on any coffee lover's list. 

Copenhagen is a relatively younger force to be reckoned with on the coffee world stage. Here, black filter coffee, referred to as almindelig kaffe, or “ordinary coffee,” is the prominent cup of choice in the city. Roasted in a gentle practice that’s created a characteristically Scandinavian style that employs high-quality beans, Copenhagen coffee is typically on the lighter side to draw forth nuances, complexities, and acidity. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a cardamom studded bun from one of the city's many bakeries. (Of course, Copenhagen's bakery culture is just as impressive.)

Luminaries like Coffee Collective’s Klaus Thomsen, Peter Dupoint, and Casper Engel Rasmussen set the precedent for Copenhagen to define its own northern personality with the coffee bean. Today, the iconic roastery and collection of coffee shops boasts seven locations. The best location (in my humble opinion) resides in the bustling Torvehallerne food market, where visitors can enjoy coffee while taking in the sight of langoustine and urchin strewn across the glittering ice of the fishmonger stalls.

As the scene has progressed, shops like Prolog in the trendy Meatpacking district have pushed the coffee culture forward. Their commitment to sourcing beans from the best ethical suppliers around the world is only matched by their commitment to sustainability. 

As in typical Scandinavian proficiency, the coffee drinking experience is equally important as the coffee itself at many of these spots, with the same uniqueness and attention to detail invested in the aesthetic. Case in point: April roastery and café could be easily mistaken for the home of your very stylish Danish friend with the Scandi wooden-backed armchairs, sofas, and abstract coffee tables dotting the space in the style of a living room. Slowly sipping a pour over in this thoughtful roastery's unrivaled space is its own sort of special occasion.

Coffee has become so ingrained in the way of life of the average Dane that there’s even a word for when you drink it at night or have a thirst that only coffee can satisfy: kaffetørstig. Thankfully, as 86% of Danes speak English, any traveling coffee aficionado doesn’t need to know it to have an unforgettable time sampling the many world-class offerings in our favorite city for the perfect cup of black coffee.

Global Tastemakers is a celebration of the best culinary destinations in the U.S. and abroad. We asked more than 180 food and travel journalists to vote on their favorites, including restaurants and bars, cities, hotels, airports, airlines, and cruises. We then entrusted those results to an expert panel of judges to determine each category’s winners. In many categories, we’ve included a Plus One, hand-selected by our expert panel, to shout out more culinary destinations we don’t want our readers to miss. See all the winners at foodandwine.com/globaltastemakers .

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