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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Copenhagen

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to Copenhagen.

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Best Hotels

Best things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, how to get there, best times to visit, neighborhoods to know, how to get around.

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Named one of the best places to travel in 2023 by Travel + Leisure , Copenhagen continues to draw in tourists with its exceptional food, history, and architecture. The city was officially named the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. On top of its newly recognized architectural prowess, the city continues to wow tourists with its tried-and-true offerings — whether that's dining at Noma, the Michelin three-starred restaurant that announced its closure in winter 2024, or strolling the always-popular Tivoli Gardens.

Here, your essential Copenhagen guide for hotels, things to do, restaurants, and so much more.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

  • Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest operating theme park in the world.
  • Jægersborggade Street is lined with some of the best shops in Copenhagen, including a famous ceramics boutique.
  • The Alchemist keeps guests entertained with performance art and multi-sensory decor while they dine on nearly 50 courses.
  • CopenHill is Copenhagen's first ski area and features the world's tallest climbing wall.
  • Spend the night at TheKrane — its only room is inside an old coal crane and hangs 49 feet above the ground.

Coco Hotel is the hottest new spot in Denmark's capital city. Not only was it voted as the best hotel in Copenhagen by T+L readers in 2022, it also was named one of the best new hotels in the world in 2022 by T+L editors. The 88-room boutique hotel features bold colors, a European-style cafe, and complimentary bikes for guests. It also makes an effort to be green-conscious, planting a fruit tree somewhere around the world every time a guest checks in and running its facility on a private solar-powered grid.

Hotel d'Angleterre

Hotel d'Angleterre is an iconic, 265-year-old hotel — and it was voted one of the best in Copenhagen by T+L readers in 2022. The charming hotel features modern Nordic design and expansive views of Kongens Nytorv from the suite balconies. With a heated indoor pool — the only one in the city center — and Michelin-starred dining, you might never want to leave. The concierge also offers plenty of V.I.P. experiences for their guests, including cooking classes and history tours.

Sanders Hotel

A tranquil retreat in the center of town, the Sanders Hotel is one of the best stays in Copenhagen, with "midcentury modern touches [that] imbue its 54 rooms with a sense of casual cool," Peter Terzian, T+L features editor, previously reported in the 2022 World's Best Awards. It offers an extensive array of amenities, including loaner bikes for guests (don't forget to ask for a prepared picnic basket) and a glass-encased rooftop terrace that serves up delicious breakfast and gorgeous city views. Be sure to book one of the hotel's exclusive excursions, which includes a backstage pass to the Royal Theater — a short two-minute walk away — or a private guided trip down the nearby canals in a vintage mahogany boat.

There is exactly one guest room at TheKrane , which is why T+L called it one of the coolest hotels in Copenhagen . The room is inside an old coal crane that dates back to 1944 and hangs 49 feet above the ground on Nordhavn's industrial waterfront. A night's stay comes with a hefty price tag, but it includes more than just a place to rest your head — guests will love the complimentary on-site spa, prearranged airport pickup, and daily breakfast.

The Happiness Museum

Denmark, named the second happiest country in the world in 2023, is home to the world's very first happiness museum . Opened in 2020, the museum features several different exhibits on how other countries perceive happiness.

CopenHill is Copenhagen's first ski area — carefully constructed atop a waste management center for the city. In the summer months, visitors can also hike, run, or tackle the world's tallest climbing wall at this urban recreation destination.

Frederiksborg Castle

Located on three islands, surrounded by lush gardens and a large lake, Frederiksborg Castle is a perfect day trip from Copenhagen. The castle is also home to the Museum of National History, which traces 500 years of Danish history through art, furniture, sculptures, and more.

Tivoli Gardens

Don't let the word "gardens" fool you, this expansive park is home to one of the best theme parks in Europe , open from mid-April to mid-September. In the winter, there's still plenty to see and do, with a whimsical Christmas market, over-the-top decorations, and stunning lights. There are plenty of shops and restaurants on the grounds as well.

Read More: 20 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, From a Palace Visit to Waterfront Strolls

Illums Bolighus

A design aficionado's dream, Illums Bolighus is your one-stop shop for Danish design. With top interiors brands, this is a great under-the-radar spot to snag some memorable souvenirs.

Jægersborggade Street

This buzzy street is home to some of the best shops in Copenhagen. You can find vintage clothing, organic produce, and 40 art galleries. Make sure to check out the ceramics boutiques, including Keramiker Inge Vincents, known for its hand-shaped porcelain.

Prefer to do some tax-free shopping before returning to the airport? Visit megastore Magasin , a department store with a fashionable, vintage feel and plenty of variety. The store started in 1869, and it's still a popular choice among locals because it stays open later than most department stores.

Noma is one of the most famous restaurants in the world, and after a 20-year run, head chef René Redzepi recently announced it will close at the end of 2024. So, eat there while you still can. The Michelin three-starred restaurant's menu changes with the seasons, focusing on vegetarian fare in the summer, game and forest-inspired food in the fall, and seafood in the late winter/early spring.

At the Alchemist , one of the hardest reservations in Copenhagen, "guests enter through an ominous, hand-sculpted door made from two tons of bronze," reported Christina Liao recently in T+L. Food reporter Liao called it one of the best dining experiences in the world and said diners can expect nearly 50 courses surrounded by performance art and immersive, multi-sensory decor.

Alouette is a hidden gem on the Danish dining scene — behind an unobtrusive garage door and past a graffiti-covered hallway lies a surprisingly bright Michelin-starred restaurant that serves a set five-course menu. The menu changes weekly with a focus on small producers and seasonal ingredients.

Copenhagen is best reached by flying into its international airport, which T+L readers voted as one of the  best international airports  in the world in 2022. Copenhagen Airport serves over 100 destinations and is the biggest airport in Denmark.

You can also travel to and from other major European cities, including London, Paris, and Stockholm, aboard  Rail Europe  trains or buses. A train ride from London to Copenhagen will take almost 15 hours, while a bus ride could take up to 35 hours, with multiple stops and long transfers.

The best time to visit Copenhagen is April, May, and September if you're after warmer weather and longer days. You'll encounter fewer crowds than in the peak summer months, but can still enjoy similar temperatures. However, some of the best festivals happen from June to August — like the  Copenhagen Jazz Festival , which takes place every July.

Copenhagen in December is the prime hygge (cozy) and Christmas market season. Travelers can head to the Tivoli Gardens for a gorgeous holiday light display. If you can't make it in December, you can still enjoy a light show in February when the city hosts its now-annual Copenhagen Light Festival .

Read More: The Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Great Weather, Lower Prices, and Fewer Crowds

City Center: Copenhagen's City Center is where you'll find hotels like Hotel d'Angleterre and Nyhavn, the waterfront district "tailor-made for Instagram, with colorful townhouses and boats bobbing in the canals," Lindsay Cohn, a T+L contributor, previously reported . This area is home to CPH's top attractions, including Kongens Nytorv, the largest public square in the city.

Frederiksberg: Frederiksberg is another tourist hot spot within Copenhagen and is home to terrific shopping and attractions like the Frederiksberg Palace and the Copenhagen Zoo.

Nørrebro: Northeast of the city center, Nørrebro is "the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen," architect Camilla van Deurs told T+L recently . You'll find some of Copenhagen's best pan-Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants here.

Vesterbro/Kødbyen: Vesterbro was once considered Copenhagen's red light district. It's known for its nightlife, but there are also charming, residential, family-friendly areas in the neighborhood, as well. Within Vesterbro, you'll find Kødbyen, otherwise known as Copenhagen's meatpacking district.

Christianshavn: Technically a cluster of small islands, Christianshavn is teeming with waterways and charming, colorful row homes. Here, you can rent boats or kayaks to explore the canals or take a dip in one of Copenhagen's harbor baths.

Train, bus, and metro: Copenhagen's public transportation network unites trains, buses, and metros in one easy-to-understand system. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks at the airport and throughout the city, on the DOT Mobilbilletter app , or online , with prices varying by zone. You can also purchase a City Pass , which will give you unlimited access to specific zones depending on which one you purchase. Download the Rejseplanen app to see public transportation schedules with minute-by-minute updates.

Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Copenhagen. If you need a cab, there are several companies, like Dantaxi , you can contact directly for pickup.

Car service: If you don't want a taxi, you can book town car or black car services with companies like Sixt to help you get around, or use the zero-emission ride-sharing service Viggo . Copenhagen is not serviced by Uber or Lyft.

Bikes: Copenhagen is a city best explored by bike. In fact, according to the Copenhagen Tourism website , 49 percent of locals commute to work on bikes. Plan your ride around the city's many biking routes and bridges, or try to tackle the bike route used in the 2022 Tour de France Grand Départ, which took place in Copenhagen.

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Copenhagen Travel Guide

Like some sort of mythological riddle, Copenhagen seems to embody every phase of life at once. Want to evoke memories of childhood? Head to the whimsical Tivoli Gardens (which, unlike the Little Mermaid statue, is worth the crowds). Those college stoner days? Bond with bohemians across the river in Christiania. How about your seemingly endless hipster phase? Take a stroll though Nørrebro, where twenty-somethings dressed in wide-leg jeans and top knots are as ubiquitous as the eco-friendly concept stores. But among all that nostalgia, Copenhagen is a city planted firmly—and constantly—in the present. The Danish capital continues to churn out imaginative, ultra-modern hotels, as well as its famously cutting-edge restaurants (Noma is just the beginning—the city currently lays claim to a whopping 15 Michelin-starred restaurants). But when in existential doubt, take a pause and open your eyes: One glimpse of the waterfront, Crayola-bright houses of Nyhavn will bring you right back to where your feet are.

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Copenhagen Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

colorful buildings along one of the many canals in Copenhagen, Denmark

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

A sign at the entrance to Freetown, an independent area in the city of Copenhagen, Denmark

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

More colorful buildings along a canal lined with boats in Copenhagen, Denmark

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

People cycling on a sunny summer day in Copenhagen, Denmark

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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A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide

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!

copenhagen online travel guide

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

copenhagen online travel guide

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 .

copenhagen online travel guide

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 .

copenhagen online travel guide

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!

copenhagen online travel guide

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 online travel guide

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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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copenhagen online travel guide

©Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

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

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tivoli Gardens.

Tivoli Gardens

Dating from 1843, tasteful Tivoli wins fans with its dreamy whirl of amusement rides, twinkling pavilions, carnival games and open-air stage shows…

Detail of unicorn graffiti inside Christiania.

Christiania

Escape the capitalist crunch and head to Freetown Christiania, a hash-scented commune straddling the eastern side of Christianshavn. Since its…

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Rosenborg Slot

A 'once upon a time' combo of turrets, gables and moat, the early-17th-century Rosenborg Slot was built in Dutch Renaissance style between 1606 and 1633…

Statue inside Statens Museum for Kunst.

Statens Museum for Kunst

Denmark's National Gallery straddles two contrasting, interconnected buildings: a late-19th-century 'palazzo' and a sharply minimalist extension. The…

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There are few nicer places to be on a sunny day than sitting at an outdoor table at a cafe on the quayside of the Nyhavn canal. The canal was built to…

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Christiansborg Slot

Christiansborg Slot is home to Folketinget (the Danish parliament), the Prime Minister's office and the Supreme Court. Visitor highlights include the…

Exterior of Nationalmuseet, Ny Vestergade 10.

Nationalmuseet

For a crash course in Danish history and culture, spend an afternoon at Denmark's National Museum. It has first claim on virtually every antiquity…

Two woman walk a dog in Frederiksberg Garden on a sunny Sunday.

Frederiksberg Have

Vesterbro & Frederiksberg

This is Copenhagen’s most romantic park, with lakes, woodlands and lovely picnic lawns. Guarding the main entrance is 19th-century royal Frederik VI, who…

Top picks from our travel experts

9 of the best things to do in copenhagen.

Oysters & Grill

Oysters & Grill

Nørrebro & Østerbro

Finger-licking surf and turf is what you get at this rocking, unpretentious neighbourhood favourite, complete with kitsch vinyl tablecloths and a fun,…

Operaen

Denmark's behemothic Opera House sits on Copenhagen Harbour, directly across from the Amalienborg Slot. Completed in 2005 and embellished with limestone,…

Royal Copenhagen

Royal Copenhagen

This is the main showroom for the historic Royal Copenhagen porcelain, one of the city's best-loved souvenir choices. Its 'blue fluted' pattern is famous…

Little Mermaid

Little Mermaid

New York has its Lady Liberty and Sydney its (Danish-designed) Opera House. When the world thinks of Copenhagen, the chances are they're thinking of the…

Georg Jensen

Georg Jensen

This is the world-famous silversmith's flagship store, selling everything from rings, brooches and watches, to attention-commanding vases and tableware…

Amalienborg Palace in central Copenhagen consists of four mansions, two of which are home to the queen and the crown prince.

Amalienborg Slot

Home of the current queen, Margrethe II, Amalienborg Slot consists of four austere 18th-century palaces around a large cobbled square. The changing of the…

Aamanns 1921

Aamanns 1921

Led by chef Adam Aamann who is known for his creative take on smørrebrød, Aamanns 1921 modernises the traditional open-faced sandwich and other Danish…

Hay House

Rolf Hay’s fabulous interior-design store sells its own coveted line of furniture, textiles and design objects, as well as those of other fresh,…

Illums Bolighus

Illums Bolighus

Design fans hyperventilate over this sprawling department store, its four floors packed with all things Nordic and beautiful. You'll find everything from…

Restaurant Kronborg

Restaurant Kronborg

Behind its hulking, centuries-old walls, cosy, wood-beamed Kronborg serves up classic Danish fare. Head here for the impressive choice of lunchtime…

Dansk Arkitektur Center

Dansk Arkitektur Center

This gallery hosts changing exhibitions on Danish and international architecture and features an excellent book- and design-shop. On weekends from late…

Hey Captain

Hey Captain

Hey Captain brings something new to Copenhagen tourist favourite canal tours. Comfortable boats seat 12 guests for a more personal experience. The aim is…

Stilleben

Owned by Danish Design School graduates Ditte Reckweg and Jelena Schou Nordentoft, Stilleben stocks a bewitching range of contemporary ceramic, glassware,…

Kongens Have

Kongens Have

The oldest park in Copenhagen was laid out in the early 17th century by Christian IV, who used it as his vegetable patch. These days it has a little more…

Sankt Peders Bageri

Sankt Peders Bageri

Sankt Peders Bageri is the oldest bakery in the city, dating back to 1652. Famed for its cinnamon rolls, its mouthwatering selection also includes…

Torvehallerne

Torvehallerne KBH

Food market Torvehallerne KBH is an essential stop on the Copenhagen foodie trail. A delicious ode to the fresh, the tasty and the artisanal, the market's…

The majestic Frederik's Church with it's impressive dome, also known as the Marble Church, forms with its rococo architecture a central point of the Frederiksstaden district.

Marmorkirken

Consecrated in 1894, the neo-baroque Marble Church (officially Frederikskirken) is one of Copenhagen's most imposing architectural assets. Its grandiose…

Gefion Fountain

Gefion Fountain

At the southeastern edge of Kastellet is Anders Bundgaard's monumental Gefion Fountain, depicting the Norse goddess Gefion steering some rather stoic oxen…

Black Diamond side of Det Kongelige Bibliotek.

Det Kongelige Bibliotek

Scandinavia's largest library consists of two very distinct parts: the original 19th-century red-brick building and the head-turning 'Black Diamond'…

Kastellet

The star-shaped fortress of Kastellet was originally commissioned by Frederik III in 1662. Today, it is one of the most historically evocative sites in…

Designmuseum Danmark

Designmuseum Danmark

The 18th-century Frederiks Hospital is now the outstanding Denmark Design Museum. A must for fans of the applied arts and industrial design, its fairly…

Mikkeller & Friends

Mikkeller & Friends

Looking suitably cool with its turquoise floors and pale ribbed wood, Mikkeller & Friends is a joint venture of the Mikkeller and To Øl breweries. Beer…

La Banchina, harbourside exterior wide shot

La Banchina

This tiny spot serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, cooked beautifully and served with little fanfare. The real magic is the setting, a small harbour cove…

A tree alley and people walking in Assistens Cemetery in Copenhagen.

Assistens Kirkegård

You'll find some of Denmark's most celebrated citizens at this famous cemetery, including philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, physicist Niels Bohr, author Hans…

Coffee Collective

Coffee Collective

Save your caffeine fix for Copenhagen's most respected micro-roastery. The beans here are sourced ethically and directly from farmers. These guys usually…

The 20 best free things to do in Copenhagen

Christiansborg Slot Tower exterior

Christiansborg Slot Tower

The palace tower opened to the public for the first time in 2014. It’s the city’s tallest tower, delivering a sweeping view over the Danish capital. The…

Colorful buildings lining the Grabrodretorv Square in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Gråbrødretorv

Found just off bustling Strøget pedestrian shopping street, this colourful square is named for the friary that stood here back in the 13th century. It was…

Coffee Collective

Copenhagen's most prolific microroastery, Coffee Collective has helped revolutionise the city's coffee culture. Head in for rich, complex cups of…

Christiansborg Slotskirke, church exterior

Christiansborg Slotskirke

Tragedy struck CF Hansen’s austere, 19th-century neoclassical church on the day of the 1992 Copenhagen Carnival. A stray firework hit the scaffolding that…

Botanisk Have

Botanisk Have

Restorative and romantic, Copenhagen's Botanic Garden lays claim to around 13,000 species of plant life – the largest collection in Denmark. You can amble…

Tower of Vor Frue Kirke.

Vor Frue Kirke

Founded in 1191 and rebuilt three times after devastating fires, Copenhagen's neoclassical cathedral dates from 1829. Designed by CF Hansen, its lofty,…

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Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Fin de siècle architecture meets with an eclectic mix of art at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. The collection is divided into two parts: Northern Europe's…

Jens Olsen's World Clock

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…

Islands Brygge Havnebadet

Islands Brygge Havnebadet

Copenhagen's coolest outdoor pool complex comprises three pools and sits right in the central city's main canal. Water quality is rigorously monitored,…

Nikolaj Kunsthal, entrance wide shot

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…

Reffen

This harbourside street-food market is a veritable village of converted shipping containers, peddling sustainable bites from across the globe. Multiculti…

Palmehus and surroundings

Forget Thailand: to escape the Nordic cold, simply slip inside the Botanic Garden's Palm House. A large, elegant glasshouse dating from the 19th century,…

Vor Frelsers Kirke (church).

Vor Frelsers Kirke

It's hard to miss this 17th-century church and its 95m-high spiral tower. For a soul-stirring city view, make the head-spinning 400-step ascent to the top…

Rådhuspladsen

Rådhuspladsen

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

Copenhagen City Hall.

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,…

De Kongelige Stalde signage and entrance

De Kongelige Stalde

Completed in 1740, the two curved, symmetrical wings behind Christiansborg belonged to the original baroque palace, destroyed by fire in 1794. The wings…

Amager Strandpark

Amager Strandpark

A sand-sational artificial lagoon southeast of the city centre, with acres of beach and, during summer, a festive vibe most days, with cafes and bars…

Thorvaldsens Museum interior lower floor

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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Split by lakes and surrounded by sea, an energetic and hip waterside vibe permeates Copenhagen (København), one of Europe’s most user-friendly (and trendy) capitals. It’s a welcoming, compact city with a centre largely given over to pedestrians (and cyclists). There’s an emphasis on café culture and top-notch museums by day, and a thumping live music, bar and club scene by night. Festivals like Distortion (June) and the Jazz Festival (July) show the city off at its coolest and most inventive.

What to do in Copenhagen

The botanisk have and art galleries, the carlsberg visitors centre, christiania, christianshavn, copenhagen on a budget, copenhagen tours, day-trips from copenhagen, drinking and nightlife, lgbt copenhagen, indre by and the rundetaarn, kongens have and rosenborg slot, the little mermaid, ny carlsberg glyptotek, nyhavn and frederiksstaden, thorvaldsens and the national museums.

Until the twelfth century, when Bishop Absalon built a castle on Christiansborg’s present site, there was little more than a tiny fishing settlement to be found here. Trade and prosperity flourished with the introduction of the Sound Toll on vessels in the Øresund, and the city became the Baltic’s principal harbour, earning the name København (“merchants’ harbour”). By 1443, it had become the Danish capital. A century later, Christian IV created Rosenborg Castle, Rundetårn and the districts of Nyboder and Christianshavn, and in 1669 Frederik III graced the city with its first royal palace, Amalienborg. Since then, various kings and merchants have built up the city to be the amalgam of architectural styles and landscapes that you see today.

If you plan on seeing plenty of Copenhagen's star attractions, it's worth purchasing a City Card , which allows free or discounted entrance to more than eighty museums and other places of interest.

Visit the Little Mermaid

The symbol of the city is a life-size Little Mermaid perched on a granite rock. She's the sad protagonist from the romantic fairytale by Danish author H.C. Andersen.

Marvel at the artefacts in the Nationalmuseet

This museum contains a world-class collection of historical artefacts, from bog people and fifteenth-century BC sculptures to Viking weapons.

Take the family to Den Blå Planet

The Blue Planet is a jaw-dropping modern aquarium containing some 20,000 animals across 450 species.

Cruise along the canals from Nyhavn

This quaint, much-photographed harbour is located just alongside a strip of popular bars and restaurants. Join a canal cruise here.

Meet the animals of Zoologisk Have

Founded in 1859, Copenhagen's zoo is home to 3000 animals from 264 species. The stand-out sight is the Arctic polar bear habitat.

Get an adrenaline spike at Tivoli

At this magical amusement park, the oldest in the world, you'll find hair-raising rides, fairy gardens and unforgettable live shows. A 1-Day Unlimited Rides ticket is a good option.

Buy fresh produce at Torvehallerne

Beer from Mikkeller, Copenhagen's finest chocolate and porridge reimagined as dinner are just some of the edible surprises at Denmark's largest food hall.

Enjoy sweeping views from Rundetårn

Instead of stairs, the oldest working observation tower in Europe has a spectacular 209-metre spiral pathway.

View excellent art at Statens Museums for Kunst

Denmark's most enormous art museum, with exceptional collections of Danish and international art from the last seven centuries.

Soak up the atmosphere at Rådhuspladsen square

Buzzing Rådhuspladsen square is towered over by a grand red-brick city hall, and is the perfect place for a mustard-topped pølse. Take in the square and several other impressive Copenhagen sights on an Old Town Walking Tour .

Top image © PAUL ATKINSON/Shutterstock

This page contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Copenhagen has a very good selection of hostels, mainly concentrated in the city centre and Nørrebro. Booking ahead is recommended on weekends and during summer months; otherwise turn up as early as possible during the day to ensure a bed. Hotel prices can verge on the astronomical but there are often online deals available and a few cheaper options in the centre. Private rooms (around 400kr) booked through the tourist office are usually an S-train ride away from the centre. Breakfast is not included, unless otherwise stated.

The Botanisk Have (Botanical Garden; May–Sept daily 8.30am–6pm, Oct–April Tues–Sun 8.30am–4pm; free), on the west side of Kongens Have, is dotted with greenhouses and rare plants. The neighbouring Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery; Tues–Sun 10am–5pm, Wed till 8pm; free, entry fee for some special exhibitions) has bright and spacious galleries holding a vast collection of art, from minor Picassos to major works by Matisse and Titian. Across the park on Stockholmsgade, Den Hirschsprungske Samling (The Hirschsprung Collection; Tues–Sun 11am–4pm; 75kr, free on Wed) holds a collection of twentieth-century Danish art, including work by the Skagen artists, renowned for their use of light.

“Probably the best beer in the world” claims the advert. Well, you can decide for yourself at the Carslberg Visitors Centre (Tues–Sun 10am–8pm; 95kr) along Gamle Carlsberg Vej (buses #18 and #26). As well as learning how to create the perfect pint at the Jacobsen Brewhouse, you also get to sample two beers from a choice of Carlsberg, Tuborg and Jacobsen brews.

Christiania is a former barracks area colonized by hippies after declaring itself a “free city” in 1971. It has evolved into a self-governing entity based on collective ownership, with quirky buildings housing alternative small businesses such as a bicycle workshop and women’s smithy, as well as art galleries, cafés, restaurants, Copenhagen’s best falafel stand, music venues and Pusherstreet, once an open hash market.

There are guided tours of the area, starting at the main gate by Prinsessegade, but it’s just as fun to wander around on your own. No photos are allowed, unless by special permission. The neighbourhood has been racked by controversy since the off, sitting as it does on prime real estate while its population remain exempt from the taxes most Danes pay. Although the area’s future is threatened by moves from the Danish conservative government, as its residents may tell you, the places earns its keep: it’s one of Copenhagen’s most visited attractions, and justifiably so.

From Christiansborg, a bridge crosses to Christianshavn , built by Christian IV in the early sixteenth century and nicknamed “Little Amsterdam” thanks to its small canals, cute bridges and Dutch-style houses. Reaching skywards on the far side of Torvegade is one of the city’s most recognizable features, the copper and golden spire of Vor Frelsers Kirke (daily 11am–3.30pm; tower May–Sept Mon–Sat 9.30am–7pm, Sun 10.30am–7pm; free, tower 35kr). Also worth a look is the canalside Dansk Arkitektur Center (daily 10am–5pm, Wed till 9pm; 40kr, students 25kr or free for architecture students), at Strandgade 27B, with regular exhibitions on design and architecture plus an excellent café and bookshop.

Europe‘s fifth most expensive city, Copenhagen can be a tricky place to get by on a budget, but with a bit of planning you can make the most of your wallet. Museums with free admission include the Nationalmuseet (National Museum) and the Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery), see below, while many others offer free entry one day per week. Another great free activity in summer is swimming in Copenhagen harbour’s outdoor pool on Islands Brygge, southwest across the canal from Indre By. You should also consider buying a CPHCARD . As for getting around, you can walk to most places, use the free city bikes or take the harbour bus-boats. The city has plenty of free music on offer, including concerts at Tivoli almost weekly during summer. As for accommodation, having your own bed linen and HI card can save you upwards of 100kr nightly.

When the weather’s good, it’s well worth forking out on a city tour to familiarize yourself with Copenhagen. There are hop-on/hop-off open-top bus tours around the key city sights and also Netto Boats operating hour-long canal and harbour boat tours past the old stock exchange (not open to the public), the island of Holmen and the Little Mermaid, leaving regularly from Nyhavn.

For bike enthusiasts, there are group and private tours available.

When the weather’s good, you can top up your tan at the Amager Strandpark beach, just 5km from the centre (bus #12 or take the metro to Øresund, Amager Strand or Femøren then a 5min walk). If Tivoli hasn’t exhausted your appetite, then make for the world’s oldest amusement park at Bakken (mid-March till Sept daily noon/2pm–10pm/11pm/midnight; April, rides closed some weekdays; multi-ride ticket 219kr/249kr), close to the

Klampenborg stop at the end of lines C and F+ on the S-train about 10km north of downtown. Besides slightly sinister clowns and vintage roller coasters it offers pleasant woods and nearby beaches to wander around.

There are two more excellent attractions on Zealand’s northeastern coast. In the affluent town of HILLERØD at the end of S-train line C is the spectacular multi-turreted Frederiksborg Slot (daily April–Oct 10am–5pm; Nov–March 11am–4pm; 75kr), a seventeenth-century castle built by Christian IV, surrounded by an ornamental lake and housing Denmark’s national portrait gallery. Further north in HUMLEBÆK, and a short walk from its train station, is Louisiana , an outstanding modern art gallery, at Gammel Strandvej 13 (Tues–Fri 11am–10pm, Sat & Sun 11am–6pm; 115kr). The gallery’s setting is worth the journey alone – a harmonious blend of art, architecture and the natural landscape.

Nørrebro vies for the place to be with hip Kødbyen, the city’s still-functioning meatpacking district just southeast of Tivoli, where arty bars and clubs have taken over old warehouses. Bars across the city are generally open until midnight or 1am Mon–Wed & Sun, and until at least 2am Thurs–Sat.

Mixing Michelin stars with budget bars, Copenhagen delights with its tremendously varied eating scene – which has helped to plant it on the map as Scandinavia’s most sophisticated city. Head out of the centre as locals do towards Nørrebro and Vesterbro for the best deals. For self-caterers, bakeries are a good option, while for takeaway smørrebrød try the outlets at Centrum Smørrebrød, Vesterbrogade 6C; or Klemmen at Central Station. There are Netto supermarkets at Nørre Voldgade 94, Nørrebrogade 43 and Landemærket 11. If you fancy really getting to know the locals while filling up on home-made Danish food, you could always book a Dine With the Danes evening, a long-running initiative which gets travellers into contact with locals who cook, serve and share a meal with you (from 480kr).

The Danish capital has a small but lively gay scene and hosts regular festivals and events including an annual Gay Pride march and one of the world‘s oldest LGBTQ+ film festivals, MIX , held each October. There are several gay clubs and numerous bars across the city; the big sauna is Amigo Sauna (Studiestrade 21a). Check out visitcopenhagen.com/gay and rainbowbusinessdenmark.dk for more information.

West of Kongens Nytorv, the city’s largest square and home to some of the best hotdog stalls in town, pedestrianized Strøget leads into the heart of Indre By . This is Denmark’s premier shopping area. The quirky 35m-high Rundetaarn (Round Tower; mid-March to mid-May daily 10am–6pm; mid-May to mid-Sept daily 10am–8pm; mid-Sept to mid-Oct daily 10am–6pm; mid-Oct to mid-March Thurs–Mon 10am–6pm, Tues & Wed 10am–9pm; 25kr) dominates the skyline north of Strøget. Built as an observatory and finished in 1642, the main attraction is the view from the top, reached via a spiral walkway. A glass floor 25m up allows you to look down into the core of the tower. It’s a still-functioning observatory, and you can view the night sky through its astronomical telescope (May–Sept 10am–8pm; Sept–May 10am–6pm).

West of Frederikskirken, Kongens Have is the city’s oldest public park and a popular spot for picnics. Within the park is the fairytale Rosenborg Slot (daily: Jan–April & Nov to mid-Dec 10am–2pm; May, Sept & Oct 10am–4pm; June–Aug 9am–5pm; 80kr), the castle that served as the principal residence of Christian IV. The highlight is the downstairs treasury, where a gilded throne and the crown jewels and rich accessories worn by Christian IV are on display.

Just north of the Kastellet , a star-shaped fortress with five bastions on a corner overlooking the harbour, sits the diminutive (and, in all honesty, anticlimactic) Little Mermaid , a magnet for tourists since her unveiling in 1913. A bronze statue of the Hans Christian Andersen character, it was sculpted by Edvard Eriksen and paid for by the founder of the Carlsberg brewery. Over the years she’s been the victim of several attacks, having her head and arms chopped off and even being blown up by a bomb in 2003 – and also spent much of 2010 at Shanghai’s Expo – but she remains the most enduring symbol of the city.

Nørrebro , an edgy area northwest across the canal from Indre By (accessible from the centre via buses #3A, #4A or #5A or a 25min walk), is crammed with some of Copenhagen’s best cafés, bars and clubs, centred on Sankt Hans Torv. Caution is advised, particularly at night: but it’s home to most of Denmark’s most happening hangouts and the resplendent Assistens Kirkegård , a tranquil cemetery which locals use as a park in summer, and that has Hans Christian Andersen among its permanent residents.

Founded by Carlsberg tycoon Carl Jacobsen, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (Tues–Wed & Fri–Sun 11am–6pm, Thurs 11am–10pm; 95kr, Tues free) is Copenhagen’s finest classical and modern art gallery. There’s a knockout selection of Greek and Roman sculpture on the first floor as well as some excellent examples of modern European art, including Degas casts, Monet’s The Lemon Grove and works by Gauguin, Van Gogh and Danish Golden Age artists like Eckersberg, upstairs. Conclude your visit with a slice of delicious cake in the café beside the delightfully domed winter garden.

Running east from Kongens Nytorv, a slender canal divides the two sides of Nyhavn (“new harbour”), picturesquely lined with colourful eighteenth-century houses – now bars and cafés – and thronged with tourists year-round. Just north of Nyhavn, the royal district of Frederiksstaden centres on cobbled Amalienborg Slotsplads, home to the four Amalienborg royal palaces. Two remain as royal residences, and there’s a changing of the guard at noon if the monarch is home. In the opposite direction is the great marble dome of Frederikskirken , also known as Marmorkirken or marble church (Mon–Thurs 10am–5pm, Fri–Sun noon–5pm; admission to dome Sat & Sun 1pm & 3pm, plus Mon–Fri June–Aug; free), modelled on St Peter’s in Rome.

On the north side of Slotsholmen, the Thorvaldsens Museum (Tues–Sun 10am–5pm; 50kr, Wed free) is home to an enormous collection of work of Denmark’s most famous sculptor, Bertel Thorvaldsen. A short walk away over the Slotsholmen Kanal is the Nationalmuseet (National Museum; same hours, with guided tours Sun at 2pm; free), which has excellent displays on Denmark’s history from the Ice Age to the present day. The prehistory section in particular is fascinating, and includes amber animals, gold Viking horns, numerous corpses preserved in bogs and Denmark’s oldest coin, struck around 995 AD.

Just off hectic Vesterbrogade outside the station is Copenhagen’s most famous attraction, Tivoli (mid-April to mid-Sept Mon–Thurs & Sun 11am–10/11pm, Fri 11am–12.30am, Sat 11am–midnight; mid-Nov to end Dec closes one hour earlier; Mon–Thurs 100kr, Fri–Sun 110kr); an entertaining mixture of landscaped gardens, outdoor concerts (every Fri) and fairground rides. You’ll probably hear it before you see it, thanks to its high perimeter walls and the constant screams from the roller coasters (multi-ride tickets 220kr). On a summer evening when the park is illuminated by thousands of lights and lamps reflected in the lake, it’s one of Scandinavia’s most magical experiences.

Directly behind the train station begins Vesterbro , home to Copenhagen’s red-light district and one of the most cosmopolitan areas in the city. It has a great selection of shops, bars and restaurants. While the area is perfectly safe to walk around, male travellers may want to give Istedgade (one of the main thoroughfares) a wide berth at night to avoid being propositioned.

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Copenhagen travel guide | our in-depth visitor’s guide to exploring copenhagen.

The COMPLETE guide to everything you need to know about visiting Copenhagen.

copenhagen online travel guide

You don’t need to visit Copenhagen for more than a few hours to realize why the Danes are some of the happiest people in the world. The city has so many things going for it — a mix of beautiful old and state-of-the-art architecture, a great food scene, plenty of sights and museums, tons of coffee shops, a lively craft beer scene, plenty of culture, lots of shopping, excellent biking culture, and friendly locals (who all seem to speak excellent English). In this Copenhagen Travel Guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting this lovely Scandinavian city.

Daily Costs To Visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide

The bad news is that Copenhagen (along with all of Scandinavia) is expensive. It’s easy to drop a ton of cash if you’re not careful — especially on food, alcohol, and accommodation. From our estimates, budget travelers will spend around $70-$110/day (395DKK- 700DKK) but you can easily spend a lot more if you stay in a hotel, have a nice meal, or knock back a few beers/cocktails. Throughout this guide, we’ll suggest some budget-friendly recommendations but you should still plan on spending more than you might in other parts of Europe. 

You can view my  Copenhagen Daily Price Guide  for more in-depth cost details.

I highly suggest buying a cheap mobile data plan so you don’t get hit with high international data roaming fees. Here’s my guide to the best eSIM data plans for Denmark so you can get high-speed mobile data for about $3-$4/day.

How Long to Visit Copenhagen: 3-4 Days

Copenhagen Travel Guide

I suggest spending at least three full days in Copenhagen — but it’s also a great city for a weekend getaway if you’re short on time. That said, I felt that three or four full days is enough time to get a taste of the city but you might want to add a few days if you want to do a few of Copenhagen’s popular day trips.

Copenhagen: The Good & Not-So-Good 

Visiting Copenhagen

I always like pointing out the things you’ll really love about the city and a few of the things you might not like so you have a better idea of what to expect when visiting Copenhagen.

  • Compact City: Copenhagen is compact so it’s a very manageable city — especially if you’re comfortable on a bike. There is also a pretty good metro system (that’s currently being expanded but the completion date keeps being pushed back). That said, we walked just about everywhere without any issues.
  • Hygge: You can’t visit Copenhagen without hearing about Hygge — which is a Danish word that roughly translates into feeling cozy. The word is actually more nuanced than that but so much about Copenhagen is cozy (lots of candles, dim lighting, comfortable chairs, warm blankets, spending time with friends, etc.)
  • Bike Friendly: There are more bikes than people in Copenhagen so just about everyone who lives in the city rides a bike almost daily. It’s fun to rent a bike as it lets you explore a ton of ground quickly — plus, just about every road has dedicated bike lanes so riding is easy.
  • Great Food: Copenhagen has been a hotbed of foodie culture for a few years. In fact, it has 15 Michelin Star restaurants. And while you might not be able to afford a Michelin Star meal, this foodie culture has spawned a number of trendy and affordable restaurants.
  • Hip Neighborhoods: We love that Copenhagen has a few super trendy and up-and-coming neighborhoods that are full of great restaurants, excellent bars, and cool independent shops — and they’re all within walking distance of the city center. So do yourself a favor Kødbyen (Meatpacking District), Vesterbro and Norrebro districts.
  • Craft Beer Scene: Copenhagen is arguably Europe’s craft beer capital. The most famous microbrewery is Mikkeller and you can find multiple bars around town that serve an everchanging selection of 20-40 Mikkeller beer on tap (and even more in bottles/cans). There are also plenty of other smaller local microbreweries so you won’t go thirsty.
  • Great Summers: While the winters in Copenhagen might be long and rainy, the summers can’t be beaten. Once the sun comes out and the temperatures rise up all the locals come out in full force to enjoy the weather. The parks are full of people enjoying a few beers and the locals flock to the canals to enjoy the water — don’t be surprised to see people skinny dipping.
  • English-Speaking Locals: The Danish people are some of the best-educated people in Europe and just about everyone speaks English fluently.
  • The Water: The canals and beaches of Copenhagen are much loved by its citizens so lots of leisurely activities revolve around the water. You can rent a boat during the summer, take a water cruise, take a dip in the canals, or head to the beach.
  • Coffee Culture: Copenhagen has a great coffee culture so you’ll find cozy coffee shops serving up excellent quality joe all around the city (we list a few of our favorites later in this article).
  • Drinking Outside: You’re free to drink alcohol in public so grab a beer from a convenience and head to any park, square, or canal to enjoy your brewskis al fresco.

The Not-So-Good Good

  • Expensive: Copenhagen is expensive. There really isn’t any way to avoid that.
  • Aggressive Cyclists: Cycling is a way of life for the Danes and they take it very seriously — don’t get in their way or you’ll get an earful. So pay attention to the bike lanes because it’s easy to unknowingly wander into them.
  • Cold, Rainy, & Dark Winters: The winters in Copenhagen can be pretty bleak, overcast, and rainy. The days are short so it gets dark around 4 pm. That said, the city does have a lot of Christmas markets so it’s a festive place around the holidays.

When To Visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen | When to Visit

Other than the crowds and increased accommodation prices, it’s hard to find anything negative about visiting Copenhagen in the summer. The temperatures are nice, people flock to the city’s multiple parks, canals, and beaches, and the sidewalk cafes are full of people enjoying life. Plus, the days are long during the summer so it doesn’t get dark until around 10 pm.

Copenhagen doesn’t get much snow in the winter but it does tend to be overcast and drizzly. Temperatures are generally in the mid-30s or low-40s — so it doesn’t get super cold but it’s pretty damp and windy. The days are short so it’s dark around 4 pm.

But the city also reaches peak Hygge so everyone heads to the bars and restaurants to get extra cozy. The city is also very festive and decorated for Christmas. There are a handful of Christmas markets and the Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park is completely decorated for the holidays.

Be sure to dress properly. Check out these handy articles:

  • Winter Packing List for Europe
  • Best Waterproof Boots for Men
  • Best Waterproof Boots for Women
  • Guide To Dressing For Winter in Europe

Fall / Spring

Copenhagen starts coming out of its slumber from late March to May. The temperatures tend to be in the low 40s to high 50s so it won’t be warm but it’s a comfortable temp for exploring the city. Rain is still common but March and April tend to be some of the least rainy months of the year.

The weather starts cooling down in later September and October but it can still be a nice time to visit as the tourist crowds start thinning out.

The Best Neighborhoods in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Neighborhoods

Copenhagen has a number of distinct neighborhoods that I recommend are well-worth checking out. In this section, I’ll give a brief overview of the most popular neighborhoods to give you a general vibe of the area.

Copenhagen City Center

Copenhagen Travel Guide | City Center Neighborhood

Also called Indre By (Inner City), Copenhagen’s city center is where you’ll find a lot of the city’s main sights and museums (Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, etc), tons of restaurants, bakeries, the Strøget pedestrian-only shopping streets (with all the major stores/shops), and more. Naturally, this is where most of the visitors stay/visit so you’ll have to deal with the tourist crowds but you’re super close to just about everything.

Vesterbro / Meatpacking District (Kødbyen)

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Meatpacking and Vesterbro

The Vesterbro neighborhood has traditionally been a slightly seedy area and home of Copenhagen’s Red -Light district. These days, you’ll still see a handful of strip clubs, adult stores, and maybe a few prostitutes but you’ll also find lots of super cool bars, pubs, restaurants, craft beer bars, cocktail bars, and boutique shops. Yes, gentrification has set in so the area is perfectly safe.

The Kødbyen (aka the Meatpacking District) is also located in the middle of the Vesterbro. Over the past few years, the warehouses of the Meatpacking District have been converted into a cluster of some of the hippest and most-loved bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and nightclubs in Copenhagen. It’s a major spot for nightlife so during the summer you’ll find tons of people out and about.

You’ll find mainly trendy locals and in-the-know tourists in this neighborhood so this is the place to stay if you want to rub elbows with Copenhagen’s young and hip crowd.

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Norrebro

The Norrebro neighborhood has traditionally been home to many of Copenhagen’s immigrant and working-class population but it’s now home to artists, students, working professionals, and people attracted to the excellent nightlife, independent shops, craft beer scene, top-notch coffee, and the area’s youthful energy. Not a lot of tourists venture into the neighborhood so it’s a nice place to stay if you want to get a bit more authentic local and culturally diverse vibe.

Christianshavn

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Christianshavn

Christianshavn is a neighborhood made up of a few small islands and houseboat-lined canals (it has a bit of an Amsterdam vibe). It’s a trendy part of the city and home to a few of the city’s best (and most expensive) restaurants and the impressive new opera house.

The Freetown Christiania

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Freetown Christiania

Within Christianshavn you’ll find the small hippy town/commune called Freetown Christiania. It’s home to around 1,000 residents who live and work in their own insular community that started as a squatted military barracks back in 1971. The town is technically under Danish law but they still self-govern themselves and have their own rules/laws.

Christiania is most famous for it’s “Pusher Street” — a street where pot is sold openly and freely (the police turn a blind eye). It’s a bit of a strange sight but you’ll be surrounded by people freely smoking pot because Christiania attracts over 500,000 visitors each year (which makes it Copenhagen’s fourth most popular tourist attraction).

In addition to the pot, you’ll also find bars, restaurants/cafes, food stands, art galleries, coffee shops, concert venues, and tons of graffiti to check out. The people are generally welcoming but just don’t take photos on Pusher Street as the dealers don’t like that.

Other Neighborhoods

Frederiksberg: This is where Copenhagen’s upper-class lives so it caters to a lot of upscale clientele. Here you’ll find high-end shopping, classy restaurants, and old-school architecture. Foodies should check out Parisian-inspired Værnedamsvej street. Other attractions include the Copenhagen Zoo and Frederiksberg Palace/gardens. See On Google Maps . 

Østerbro:  Østerbro is another quiet high-end neighborhood that’s very popular with families. See On Google Maps .

Best Hostels & Hotels in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Best Hostels

Copenhagen has around 20 hostels and a bed in the most popular/best hostels will cost anywhere from about 200 DKK-350 DKK/night ($30-$55/night) during the summer . Below is a list of mu top hostel picks but check out our guide to the best hostels in Copenhagen if you want a more in-depth look at the city’s hostel options.

  • Steel House Copenhagen (We stayed here and we loved the hostel)
  • Copenhagen Downtown Hostel
  • Urban House Copenhagen
  • Sleep In Heaven Hostel
  • Generator Copenhagen

Looking for a budget hotel? I recommend Booking.com as they have the best selection of European hotels.

The Best Things To Do In Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel | Things to Do

Copenhagen has a number of great museums, attractions, activities, and neighborhoods to keep you busy for days. In this section, I’ve covered the top sights that you might want to check out when visiting Copenhagen.

Note: The Copenhagen Card covers just about every attraction in Copenhagen (museums, canal tours, bus tours, etc.) and public transportation so you might consider picking one up if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.

Museums in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a handful of large top-notch museums and multiple other smaller museums so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding something to fit your tastes.

  • Note: This list doesn’t include every museum in Copenhagen — just our favorites. Here is a good list of all the city’s museums .
  • Note Two: Most museums are closed on Monday.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Visit Copenhagen |  Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

The grand Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Museum is an excellent museum that was built around the personal art collection of billionaire Carl Jacobsen (heir to the Carlsberg Brewery). The main focus of the museum is sculptures from ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece. There are also a number of modern sculptures — notably from Rodin and Degas.

Additionally, the collection also includes an impressive number of paintings from French impressionists and Post-impressionists like Monet, Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh, etc.

And equally impressive is the gorgeous building and indoor Winter Garden that features palm trees and sculptures.

Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark)

Copenhagen Visitors Guide | Statens Museum

The National Gallery of Denmark is Denmark’s largest art museum and it features over 700 years of both Danish and international art. Naturally, given the length of time covered, this museum has a bit of everything.

The David Samling Museum

Copenhagen Travel Guide | David Collection

The David Samling is built around the private collections of lawyer, businessman, and art collector Christian Ludvig David (it’s also housed in his former residence). While it has a collection of European 18th-century fine art and Danish Early Modern Art, its claim to fame is being Scandinavia’s largest collection of Islamic Art.

Danish Museum of Art & Design

Danish Art and Design Museum | Copenhagen Travel

Denmark is famous for its decorative art, crafts, and industrial designs — most notably posters, chairs, fashion, jewelry, and household items. This is a fairly small but still great museum if you’re into design.

Nationalmuseet (National Museum of Denmark)

Nationalmuseet Copenhagen Travel Guide

The National Museum of Denmark covers the history of Denmark from the Stone Age, Viking Age, Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Modern History. So if you want to learn more about the history of Denmark then you’ll want to check this out.

Danish War Museum

Danish War Museum | Copenhagen Visitors Guide

Denmark has a long history of warfare and this museum covers from the 1500s until today. There are tons of weapons, cannons, uniforms, model ships, and more on display. It also has a large special exhibit that recreates a Danish military camp in Afghanistan — including authentic remains of a military truck struck by a land mine.

Sights & Attractions in Copenhagen

Nyhavn (new harbor).

Nyhavn | Copenhagen Travel

Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s iconic 17th-century harbor lined with colorful buildings — it’s basically the spot everyone goes to take photos. Even though it’s a major tourist attraction, Nyhavn still has some quality restaurants and bars. Alternatively, you can do like the locals and bring your own beer to the canal and drink outside.

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens | Copenhagen Travel Guide

The Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park located in the middle of Copenhagen and it opened way back in 1843 (it’s the second oldest amusement park in the world). It’s not a huge park but it has a number of nostalgic rides (like a wooden Roller Coaster from 1914) and a handful of modern rides for real thrill seekers. Even if you’re not into rides, it is still a fun place to walk around and enjoy the scenery. Note: You pay to enter and then pay for each ride.

Church of our Saviour

Church of our Savior | Visit Copenhagen Guide

The Church of Our Saviour is a beautiful church but it’s most famous for its towering 300-foot spire that’s wrapped in an external staircase that can be climbed to give amazing views of Copenhagen. It’s a bit of a walk to the top so pace yourself.

Rundetaarn Copenhagen Travel Guide

The  Rundetaarn , a 17th-century tower/observatory in the heart of the city, is another great place to get a great view of Copenhagen. In fact, it’s Europe’s oldest operating observatory and one of Copenhagen’s top sights.

Christiansborg Palace

View from Christiansborg Palace Tower | Copenhagen Travel

Take a tour of this royal palace, which is still used by the Danish Royal family, and check out more than a dozen impressive different rooms — including the lavish Royal Reception Rooms and Throne Room. Then make your way to the Royal Stables to say hay to the Royal horses.

Don’t forget to visit the Christiansborg Palace Tower (the tallest tower in the city) which offers some of the best panoramic views of Copenhagen — ohh, and the tower is free to visit.

Rosenborg Castle, Treasury, & Gardens

Rosenborg Castle | Copenhagen Travel

The Rosenborg Castle is a modest-sized but beautiful 17th-century Dutch Renaissance castle that’s located within the city. This former country summerhouse of King Christian IV has a well-preserved interior so it’s fun to explore and experience how royalty used to live.

In the basement of the castle, you’ll find the treasury which houses some military memorabilia (muskets, swords, etc.) and Denmark’s crown jewels.

Furthermore, the castle is located on very impressive grounds with must-visit gardens (the grounds are free to visit).

Copenhagen Botanical Garden

Botanical Gardens | Copenhagen Travel

This expansive botanical garden is housed in a beautiful glasshouse built in 1874 and features an impressive array of rare and exotic plants and a newly-opened butterfly house.

Amalienborg

Amalienborg Palace | Copenhagen Travel

Amalienborg is the full-time residence of the Danish Royal Family — you might even see some of the royal family out and about. You can tour the Amalienborg Museum to see a few rooms used by former members of the royal family. But most people visit to see the daily changing of the guard at noon.

Opera House

Copenhagen Opera House | Travel Copenhagen

The newly-constructed Copenhagen Opera House had an eye-watering price tag of $500 million and was fully financed by the owner of the Maersk Shipping empire as a gift to the city. It’s an impressive structure that’s worth checking out even if you don’t see an opera there.

Kastellet is an old star-shaped military fortress/Citadel built back in the mid-1600s. It’s still a functioning military barracks and offices but it’s also a public park open to anyone. Take a walk around the ramparts and enjoy the green space.

Other Fun Things To Do In Copenhagen

Torvehallerne food hall.

Torvehallerne Food Hall | Copenhagen Travel

The Torvehallerne Food Hall has become one of Copenhagen’s must-visit destinations. Built inside two glass buildings, this food hall contains over 60 food stands selling everything from fresh produce to prepared food, coffee, and dessert.

We recommend checking out the following food stands:

  • Fiskerikajen: Excellent fish and chips.
  • Ma Poule: Get the famous duck sandwich. 
  • GRØD: Must-try  porridge . Seriously.
  • Coffee Collective: Excellent coffee.
  • Hija de Sanches: Amazing taco food truck (summer only).
  • Gorm’s Pizza: Thin-crust pizza.
  • Mikkeller & Friends Bottle Shop: Bottle shop with a handful of craft beers from Mikkeller and a few other craft breweries.

Strøget Shopping Area

Stroget Shopping Street | Copenhagen

Strøget is a long car-free shopping area that cuts through the center of town. It’s probably the most touristy part of town so it’s where you’ll find all the international chain stores and a few smaller shops. You’ll find smaller, independent shops and restaurants on the side streets that intersect/surround Strøget.

Canal Tour With Hey Captain

Canal Cruise with Hey Captain

Taking a tour of Copenhagen via a canal cruise is a unique way to experience the city. There are a handful of canal boat tour companies but we recommend  Hey Captain if you want a small, intimate tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.

Hit The Water

Canal Copenhagen Travel

Life in Copenhagen revolves around the water — especially in the summer. So do like the locals do and spend a day on the water. We recommend renting a GoBoat — which is a solar-powered boat with a picnic table in the middle and doesn’t require any license to drive.

Or take a dip to cool off! Copenhagen has a number of urban beaches and waterfront swimming spots — in fact, Copenhagen was named one of the best cities for swimming. A local favorite is the outdoor  Islands Brygge Harbour Bath .

Sauna It Up

CopenHot | Copenhagen Sauna

Scandinavians love a good sauna and the Danes are no different. There is a cool company called CopenHot which has everything from shared barrel hot tubs with city views to a Sailing Spa Boat.

Want a truly local pool and spa? Check out  Frederiksberg Swimming Pool & Spa — this old-school spot has swimming pools, steam baths, saunas, and saltwater pools. It’s affordable. You’re also guaranteed to see lots of naked old Danish people.

Freetown Christiania

Freetown Copenhagen | Copenhagen Travel Guide

Freetown Christiania is a small hippie enclave/commune within Copenhagen. It’s home to around 1,000 residents who live and work within this alternative community. Just about every inch is covered in graffiti so it’s a fun place to explore. But Freetown Christiania is probably best known for its “Pusher Street” — where weed is openly sold by dealers. It might feel slightly seedy but it’s one of Copenhagen’s top tourist attractions so no need to worry.

But don’t stop at Pusher Street — explore the other parts as well.

Copenhagen Walking Tours

Free walking tours of Copenhagen

Want to learn more about Copenhagen? Take a walking tour. We usually stick with free tours (guides work on tips) but there are also a handful of paid tours if you want a more in-depth or personalized guide. For free tours, we recommend checking out either  Copenhagen Free Walking Tours or Sandmans New Europe Walking Tours  — both offer tours daily.

Black Diamond Library

Black Diamond Library

Stop into the beautiful Royal Danish Library (commonly called the Black Diamond Library) to admire its modern architecture. It’s open to the public so feel free to go inside to look around. Furthermore, you can visit the roof terrace for some nice city views.

Assistens Cemetery

Want some peace and quiet? Head to the green oasis and final resting place of many famous Danes. Lots of locals head there for a run or for a summer picnic.

Little Mermaid Statue

Maybe the most overrated attraction in Copenhagen but you’re probably going to see it anyways.

Amager Bakke / Copenhill (Artificial Ski Slope)

Here’s a weird one… Copenhagen built one of the world’s longest all-year artificial ski slopes on top of its new ultra-green power plant located on the outskirts of the city. It’s scheduled to open sometime in December 2018 so it’s still super new. Check out Copenhill’s Instagram to learn more.

Attractions Outside The City

Day trips From Copenhagen

Frederiksborg Castle

Located about 45 minutes via train from Copenhagen, Frederiksborg Castle is an impressive early 17th-century former royal residence of King Christian IV. After you tour the palatial rooms, take a stroll outside to admire the expansive castle grounds and ornately manicured gardens.

Louisiana Museum of Art Denmark

Located about 45 minutes via train from Copenhagen, the Louisiana Museum of Art showcases modern works from 1945 to today. The museum has been named one of the most beautiful museums in the world and it’s perched on a stunning coastal sculpture garden. The grounds provide a great place to relax on a nice summer day.

Kronborg Castle

Located about 60 minutes via train from Copenhagen, Kronborg Castle is an impressive 16th-century castle that was the home of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The castle offers gorgeous, sweeping ocean views and in the summer you might catch actors putting on a performance of Hamlet.

Hip & Cool Copenhagen

Copenhagen's Hip Bars and Neighborhoods

Looking to experience the hip side of Copenhagen? Check out a few of the city’s most-loved hipster favorite spots:

Jægersborggade: Head to the Nørrebro neighborhood to find Jægersborggade — one of the hippest streets in Copenhagen. This once dodgy street is now jam-packed with excellent coffee shops (Coffee Collective), bakeries (Meyers Bakery), ice cream (Istid) restaurants (Grød), second-hand shops, and independent boutiques. Also check out the neighboring area for more trendy shopping and cafes, bars, and shopping. See On Google Maps .

Meatpacking District:  Head to the Vesterbro neighborhood and go directly to the Meatpacking District is a series of former warehouses that have been converted into some of the city’s must-visit bars, restaurants, and nightlife destinations. You’ll find yourself going back every night to try everything from burgers and tacos to BBQ and craft beer. There are also a handful of small art galleries and coffee shops to check out. If you head there on a Friday or Saturday night you’ll find tons of people bar-hopping between all the different hotspots.  See On Google Maps .

Vesterbro and Istedgade : The Meatpacking District isn’t the only highlight of the Vesterbro neighborhood. We recommend heading to Istedgade Street and the surrounding area. In addition to strip clubs and adult stores, it’s also home to excellent bars, restaurants, and plenty of independent boutiques. See On Google Maps .

Reffen Street Food:  Foodies should head out to Reffen Street Food — a new waterfront street food market located on an old industrial island on the edge of the city. There are over 30 food and drink stalls serving up food from all over the world.  See on Google Maps .

Dronning Louises Bridge: On a nice day or warm night the locals head to this beautiful bridge to hang out and drink with friends. So buy some brews from a local convenience store and enjoy some completely legal outdoor drinking. See On Google Maps .

Want more information on Copenhagen’s nightlife? We found this local’s guide to Copenhagen’s nightlife to be super helpful. 

Food, Alcohol, & Coffee in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Food and Drink

It’s true that Copenhagen is home to 19 Michelin Stars (15 restaurants) so it’s no surprise that the foodie culture is strong in Copenhagen. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most-loved places to eat and drink without spending a fortune. That said, even the “budget-friendly” places can be a little pricey so prepare your wallet if you eat out often.

Quick Look At Food & Drink Prices From Popular Restaurants:

  • Burger from Gasoline Grill : $11.50 (75DKK)
  • Double Espresso from  The Coffee Collective : $4.20 (28 DKK)
  • Craft Beer from  Mikkeller Bar : $6.80-$10 (45-65 DKK)
  • Cinnamon Roll from  Skt. Peders Bageri : $2.75 (18 DKK)
  • Breakfast Porridge from  Grød : $7-$10 (45-65 DKK)
  • Mixed Drink from KASSEN :  $11.40-$13.75 (75-90 DKK)
  • High-End Cocktail from Ruby :  $16.75-$20+ (110-120+ DKK)
  • Kebab/Turkish Dish from Kosk Kebab : $5.35-$11.50 (35-75 DKK)
  • Hotdog from Hotdog Stand : $5.35 (35 DKK)
  • Pizza from Gorm’s : $15-$19 (100-125 DKK)

Great Restaurants in Copenhagen

Best Food In Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a number of quality budget-friendly(ish) and mid-range places to get a nice meal but there aren’t many truly “cheap” restaurants in Copenhagen. Here are a few of our favorite restaurants:

GRØD: Multiple locals told us about GRØD and we’re glad I took their advice. They serve delicious  porridge for breakfast and have savory options later in the day. That said, you have to try their breakfast porridge with salted caramel, apples, and toasted almonds. So good, very filling, and reasonably priced! They have a handful of locations throughout Copenhagen. See on Google Maps . 

Gasoline Grill : Excellent takeaway burger place which was recommended by multiple locals. The original is located at a gas station but they’ve recently opened a second location. See on Google Maps .

Tommi’s Burger Joint: Another super popular spot serving excellent burgers, fries, and beer. Located in a hip meatpacking district. Some outdoor seating for the summer. See on Google Maps .

Sporvejen: These guys have been serving up meaty burgers for over 20 years. Pretty no-frills place but the prices are fair.  See on Google Maps .

John’s Hotdog Deli: An excellent and much-loved homemade hotdog place in the Meatpacking neighborhood (Anthony Bourdain’s favorite). Lots of indoor and outdoor seating. See on Google Maps .

DOP (Den Okologiske Polsemand):  You’ll find hotdog stands all over Copenhagen but we liked DOP. They have two food carts in central Copenhagen and they serve up affordable (35DKK) organic hotdogs all day. See on Google Maps . 

Hija de Sanchez: Yes, you can find excellent Mexican food in Copenhagen. This delicious restaurant was started by a Noma-trained Mexican-American chef and has been featured on Netflix’s  Ugly Delicious  and multiple other foodie publications. They operate a food truck at the  Torvehallerne Food Market (summers only) and a small year-round restaurant in the Meatpacking neighborhood .

Restaurant Klubben:  This is the place to go for big portions of classic homemade Danish food at a good price. It’s a bit outside the normal tourist area and it’s especially ideal during the summer when you can eat in their beautiful garden. See on Google Maps . 

 Dalle Valle:  Dalle Valle is a chain all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant with solid prices and decent food. However, they often offer 2-for-1 deals which make eating there very affordable. Download their  app to get access to the deals. See on Google Maps .

Pizzeria La Fiorita: High-quality takeaway pizza shop with cheap prices. See on Google Maps .

Gorm’s Pizza: Thin, crispy crust pizza in a super cute location. It’s not the cheapest pizza but they have a discount during lunch. See on Google Maps .

District Tonkin: Very good Vietnamese food at reasonable prices. See on Google Maps .

Slice of San Francisco : The place to go for large tasty burritos and American-style cheesecake. Prices are decent by Copenhagen standards.  See on Google Maps .

Isted Grill:  Do yourself a favor and order the heavenly flæskestegssandwich — which is a fried pork sandwich. This iconic takeaway joint has been a local favorite since 1975 (especially with late-night partiers). See on Google Maps . 

Kødbyens Høker: This slightly hidden place (which is an order window and a few picnic tables) serves a solid burger but the locals know to order the much-loved pork sandwich. They also have a nice breakfast and brunch.  See on Google Maps .

Kebab Spots:  The kebab is a classic budget-friendly meal. You can find kebab places throughout Copenhagen but a few of the local favorites are  See on Google Maps ,  See on Google Maps ,  See on Google Maps ,  See on Google Maps ,   See on Google Maps , and See on Google Maps .

Torvehallerne Food Hall : With over 60 stands, the Torvehallerne Food Hall is a fairly new indoor food hall that has taken Copenhagen by storm and it’s become one of Copenhagen’s top attractions. In addition to fresh meat, produce and flowers, there are a handful of food stalls selling prepared food. Note: Lunch is very busy go early or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest rush. See on Google Maps .

Below are a few popular stalls you might want to check out at the  Torvehallerne Food Hall :

Reffen Street Food: Reffen is a new waterfront street food market that’s located on the edge of the city in an old industrial area. There are over 30 food and drink stalls serving up food from all over the world. And while it’s a bit outside the center, it’s still only a 10-minute bike ride from the Nyhavn (New Harbor) or there are frequent harbor busses (bus #991 or #992). See on Google Maps .

Beer and Cocktail Bars in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide | Best Beer

Copenhagen has a healthy craft beer scene, some great bars, and a number of places to get a solid cocktail. Here are a few of my favorites:

Mikkeller is the most popular craft microbrewery in Copenhagen — they’re famous for partnering with other breweries across the globe so they’re always coming up with new stuff. Within Copenhagen, they’ve expanded/partnered with a few restaurants so you can find their beer at a few different places. Their beers are a bit pricey.

  • Mikkeller Bar: The original and most popular Mikkeller location and a haven for beer geeks. They usually have around 20 beers on tap and a few others in cans/bottles. It’s a pretty small bar but the employees are nice. Good mix of tourists and locals.  See on Google Maps .
  • Mikkeller & Friends:  Another low-key minimalist bar with 40 beers on tap and some outdoor seating. Hip neighborhood. See on Google Maps .
  • Mikkeller & Friends Bottle Shop: This little bar stand is located in the Torvehallerne Food Hall. They have a pretty good selection of beer (not cold) and a few beers in a refrigerator. There isn’t really any area to drink as it’s more of a grab-n-go kinda place. See on Google Maps .
  • Mikropolis : Mikkeller beers and cocktails in a small but friendly setting. See on Google Maps .

Dive/Cheap Bars

There are still a handful of bars where you can get cheap beer but some can be pretty janky and crowded. Also, smoking is still allowed in many of these bars so keep that in mind.

  • Mesteren & Lærlingen : This  dive bar is located in the hip Meatpacking neighborhood and is very chill and low-key. They have cool music, a good amount of outdoor space, and affordable drinks. See on Google Maps .
  • Eiffel Bar: This  working-class dive bar has been around since the early 1700s. Lots of locals from the neighborhood. Beer is cheap. See on Google Maps
  • Billy Booze:  Cheapest alcohol in Copenhagen with drinks starting at 10 DKK. That said, they keep the terrible music super loud and the place is a bit trashy… but at least it’s  cheap.  See on Google Maps
  • Studenterhuset : This is a popular bar/cafe with the local students and it’s located right in the middle of town. It’s a big space with lots of tables full of students typing away at their laptops or meeting with friends. It’s a chill place during the day and it’s a bit more of a laidback bar scene at night. Local students get discounts but the prices are still reasonable for everyone else.  See on Google Maps
  • McKluud:  Who doesn’t love a Wild West-themed bar? The interior basically hasn’t changed in 40 years. That said, it’s popular with local students and young folk — probably because the beers are cheap.  See on Google Maps
  • Bo-Bi Bar: This cozy red-wallpapered tavern has welcomed a mixed crowd of locals (young and old) since WWI. Cool old-school feel. Super smokey. Beer is cheap.  See on Google Maps
  • Café Sommersted: This pub is a Copenhagen institution that’s popular with the locals — the regulars even nominated the owner, Cindy, for the title as “Copenhagener of the year”. Drinks are reasonable but they’re best known for their Irish coffee.  See on Google Maps

Other Beer Spots in Copenhagen

Looking for something a little more exotic than the standard Danish microbrews like Carlsberg, Tuborg, and Jacobsen? We got you covered… but prepare to pay a little extra.

  • Nørrebro Bryghus : This cafe/restaurant is a beer connoisseur’s dream — upstairs is a restaurant and downstairs is the bar. They brew their own beer and always have a good selection on tap. See on Google Maps .
  • Kølsters Tolv Haner : A laidback beer bar with a solid selection of microbrews, a great atmosphere inside and a nice outdoor space. That said, the beers are on the expensive side.  See on Google Maps
  • BRUS: This m icrobrewery and gastropub is a super chill place with nice music, friendly staff, and really solid beers. Again, the beers aren’t cheap. See on Google Maps
  • Dia’legd : This small and cozy bar serves up microbrews from the Refsvindinge brewery on the Danish island of Funen — so the beer is normally hard to find outside the area. This place is popular with the locals and beers only cost around 30 DKK.  See on Google Maps
  • WarPigs : This Meatpacking brewpub is known for two things: Authentic American BBQ and beer. It’s a large space with multiple picnic-style tables, over 30 beers on tap, and a lot of slow-cooked meats (the chef is from Texas).  See on Google Maps
  • Fermentoren: This hole-in-the-wall bar in the Meatpacking neighborhood has a solid selection of craft beers. This place has a nice laid-back and chill vibe. See on Google Maps
  • Ølbaren: Cozy bar staffed by passionate and friendly beer geeks. They carry multiple draft beers & over 100 bottled options.  See on Google Maps
  • Himmeriget: A bit of a hidden gem that has a huge selection of craft beers (lots of hard-to-find bottles) for all you beer geeks.  See on Google Maps
  • Ørsted Ølbar: This spacious bar carries over 200 different beers and 20 beers on tap.  See on Google Maps
  • Ølsnedkeren : This little brew bar is run by two friends. They’re consistently brewing up new beers so the menu is ever-changing. The beers are also affordable at around 45 DKK a pint.  See on Google Maps
  • Taphouse: This large bar is located right in the middle of town and they have over 60 local and international beers on tap. It attracts a range of students and tourists. It’s a fairly large space so it’s good for groups but it can get busy.  See on Google Maps

Cocktail Bars in Copenhagen

Fancy a well-made cocktail? Copenhagen has a handful of great cocktail bars but you should expect to pay a premium.

  • Curfew:  Relaxed atmosphere and a vintage/retro prohibition-era club vibe. Cool music. Cozy. Great drinks.  See on Google Maps .
  • KASSEN:  A chilled-out and fairly affordable cocktail bar with 2-for-1 cocktails before 10 pm on Friday. Down-to-Earth crowd.  See on Google Maps
  • Brønnum : Beautiful bar. Nice ambiance.  See on Google Maps
  • Ruby : Hip and trendy cocktail bar. It’s a bit hidden so you might miss it at first glance. Super cozy. Some of the best drinks in Copenhagen.  See on Google Maps .
  • LIDKOEB : Another must-visit spot for cocktail lovers. Very hip. Nice crowd of locals. It’s a bit hidden away so you would miss it if you didn’t know it was there.  See on Google Maps .
  • NOHO Copenhagen : This is the place to go if you need some content for Instagram. The decorations are super hip. Chilled during the day and dancing at night. Nice drinks and very popular with hipsters and fashionistas. See on Google Maps .
  • Bæst Cocktail Bar : Solid cocktails. Cozy atmosphere. Centrally located. Nice music. And an 8-10 pm happy hour with two drinks for around 100 DKK.  See on Google Maps .
  • The Jane:  The Jane is best described as a ‘Mad Men-style’ cocktail bar with multiple nooks and hidden corners — think wood paneling, fireplaces, bookshelves, leather chairs, and a smoking room. And excellent cocktails. DJs play after midnight.  See on Google Maps .

Coffee Shops and Bakeries in Copenhagen

Copenhagen travel guide | coffee and bakeries

The Danes love being cozy so you’ll find plenty of bakeries and a wide range of excellent coffee shops that are perfect for chilling out. Here’s a list of our top picks:

Best Bakeries in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Bakery Travel Guide

Sankt Peders Straede Bageri : This popular bakery was established in 1652 and they’re famous for their cinnamon buns. Tip: Visit  Wednesday for half-price  cinnamon buns but get there early for the fresh, warm ones. See on Google Maps .

Meyers Bageri: Another popular multi-location bakery with excellent baked goods.  See on Google Maps .

Andersen Bakery: This bakery is located a bit outside the center of Copenhagen but they have amazing pastries and great coffee. See on Google Maps .

Landbageriet: The best place to go for all your vegan and  gluten-free travelers.  See on Google Maps .

Lagkagehuset : Lagkagehuset is a chain bakery but they still have solid baked goods and coffee.  See on Google Maps .

Best Coffee Shops in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Coffee Travel Guide

Bastard Café: Bastard Cafe has pretty good coffee but they’re famous for all their board games. It’s a huge space with over 1000 board games (some free and others you rent). It’s a great place for groups since there is a lot of room. See on Google Maps .

Black Coffee & Vinyl: Music lovers should check out Black Coffee & Vinyl as it’s a cozy coffee shop that’s also a small music store that plays some nice tunes.  See on Google Maps .

The Coffee Collective : The Coffee Collective is a must-visit for all you coffee nerds. The award-winning coffee is fresh roasted and the baristas are world-class. They have four locations in Copenhagen.  See on Google Maps . 

Democratic Coffee: Another top spot in Copenhagen for coffee and pastries. It’s next to a public library so you’ll find lots of people buried in a book while enjoying their joe and the chilled-out music.  See on Google Maps .

Risteriet Coffee Studio: This is a small coffee shop but the coffee is high quality and the atmosphere is great for relaxing. See on Google Maps .

The Living Room: Snuggle up on one of the couches or leather chairs in this hip, cozy, and quiet cafe. The coffee is nice and so are the smoothies and light cafe fare. They also stay open late and serve solid cocktails and play hip music.  See on Google Maps .

CUB Coffee Bar Boldhusgade: This hip and cozy coffee shop is a bit hidden away but it’s worth seeking out. They roast their own beans and make a mean cup of joe. They have great locally-made pastries as well. See on Google Maps .

Prolog Coffee Bar: This small coffee shop is located in the hip meatpacking district. The coffee is top-notch and the baristas know what they’re doing. They also have some solid hot chocolate and nice baked goods. See on Google Maps .

Cupenhague: This relative newcomer to the Copenhagen coffee scene makes a great cup of coffee. The atmosphere is comfortable, quiet, and welcoming.  See on Google Maps .

Biking In Copenhagen

Bike Rental | Copenhagen Travel

The best way to explore Copenhagen is by bike. The city is super bike friendly so don’t be afraid of trying it yourself. However, the locals are very serious about biking so read up on proper hand signals.

Multiple businesses throughout the city rent bikes — these are a good option if you want to rent them for multiple days. Just want a bike for a short amount of time?  Check out  See on Google Maps — Copenhagen’s City Bike bike-sharing program (the bikes even have GPS!). There are bike stations everywhere so checking in and checking out bikes is easy.

Additionally, you’ll also see bright orange bikes throughout the city from a company called Donkey Republic — you use a smartphone app to unlock the bikes. These bikes are everywhere and it’s an affordable way to ride bikes.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Copenhagen Public Transportation

Copenhagen’s public transportation consists of metro, rail, buses, and waterbuses — all of which operate on the same ticket.

Copenhagen transportation is easy to use. Ticket prices are based on zones but a standard ticket covers two zones — which essentially covers all of central Copenhagen. A single-ride ticket costs DKK 24 (for 2 zones). Note: the airport is located in Zone 3 so that ticket will cost a little extra. A 24-hour ticket costs DKK 150.

That said, Copenhagen is a compact city so you may not find yourself using public transportation very often. We only used it when going from the airport to the city.

NOTE: Copenhagen’s public transportation has no turnstiles but there are random ticket inspectors who will fine you DKK 750 ($115) if you don’t have a valid ticket.

We found that Google Maps did a pretty good job of helping us navigate public transportation so we suggest using that.

The Metro consists of two lines (M1 and M2) and runs 24/7. During rush hour, trains come about every three minutes and a little less frequently during the rest of the day. There is limited service after midnight but it’s still fairly frequent.

Copenhagen is currently expanding its Metro service with multiple new stops but it’s been plagued with delays. As of now, construction is planned to be completed in mid/late 2019.

Most visitors probably won’t use the bus but there is an extensive network to get you around the city. Within the city, buses arrive around every 5-10 minutes and less frequently after midnight. The easiest way to figure out the bus schedules is via their online Journey Planner .

Ferry/Waterbus

There is also a ferry that makes six stops along the water. The ferry runs from 7 am to 8 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 8 pm on weekends.

Airport To City Center

However, for most people, the only time they’ll use public transportation is getting to/from the airport. Luckily, the airport is easily connected by both Metro and train. The ticket for both journeys costs DKK 38 and both journeys only take around 15 minutes.

  • Via Train: Take the train if you want to go to Copenhagen Central Station.
  • Via Metro: If your destination isn’t near the train station then you should take the Metro and get off at the stop nearest your accommodation.
  • Via Bus: The bus takes a lot longer so we recommend sticking with the train or metro.
  • Via Taxi: Taxis are expensive so they’ll run you about 300 DKK for a ride into central Copenhagen.

More Helpful Travel Resources for Copenhagen

Copenhagen Tourist Guide

  • We’re always fans of printed travel guides . We suggest Lonely Planet Copenhagen and Rick Steves Copenhagen . Both have lots of good information and self-guided walking tours.
  • Copenhagen’s Tourism Office is an excellent resource and they do an excellent job of helping your explore Copenhagen. Check out Visit Copenhagen  or stop by their tourist office for a free city map or more information.
  • Need some packing tips ? Check out these helpful packing articles — The Best Travel Backpacks , Backpacking Europe Packing List , & Europe Packing List for Women .
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We Are Global Travellers

A complete guide to Copenhagen, Denmark

Updated On 28th September, 2022

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

SIX CITIES IN SEVEN DAYS: STOCKHOLM, COPENHAGEN AND OSLO

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

SIX CITIES IN SEVEN DAYS: STOCKHOLM, COPENHAGEN AND OSLO

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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)

copenhagen online travel guide

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 .

SIX CITIES IN SEVEN DAYS: STOCKHOLM, COPENHAGEN AND OSLO

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. 

SIX CITIES IN SEVEN DAYS: STOCKHOLM, COPENHAGEN AND OSLO

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!

copenhagen online travel guide

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.

10 WAYS TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR CITY BREAK TO COPENHAGEN

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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!

6 Cities in 7 Days: Scandinavia (Stockholm, Copenhagen & Oslo)

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 !

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.

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.

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.

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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!

6 Cities in 7 Days: Scandinavia (Stockholm, Copenhagen & Oslo)

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.

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…

  • 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…

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…

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

copenhagen online travel guide

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

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

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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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 Travel Guide

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!

Copenhagen Harbor

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.

Amalienborg Palace

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.

Frederik’s Church Copenhagen

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.

Torvehallerne Copenhagen

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.

Christiania Copenhagen

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)

Copenhagen Round Tower

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.  

Assistens Cemetery Copenhagen

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 Copenhagen Malmö

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.

Copenhagen Beach

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.

Flottenheimer Copenhagen

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

Copenhagen Travel Tips

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article 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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An Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

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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 navigate 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.

nyhavn copenhagen denmark

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.

bicycle city copenhagen denmark

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.

kastrup airport copenhagen denmark

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.

copenhagen central station 3 days in copenhagen

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 🙂

nyhavn bicycle city copenhagen denmark

Check out some of the best bike tours in Copenhagen!

Public Transportation in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is quite easy to navigate 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. If you love Airbnb like us, read our guide to the best Airbnb in Copenhagen to choose a perfect home away from home.

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.

little mermaid statue copenhagen denmark travel guide

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.

old yellow house with red bike at the historic row house district of nyboder in copenhagen

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.

roskilde denmark

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.

refshaleøen where to eat in copenhagen in 3 days

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.

Yummy dessert at Cafe Klods Hans in Nyhavn

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 .

johns hotdog deli kødbyen copenhagen

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.

tivoli food hall copenhagen denmark

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.

steff-houlberg hotdog cart pølsevogn rådhuspladsen copenhagen

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.

Strøget pedestrian shopping street in Copenhagen Denmark

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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  • 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

nyhavn copenhagen

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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A Luxury Guide to a Long Weekend in Istanbul

Danish dining.

popl restaurant noma copenhagen

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

gernamium restaurant copenhagen

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

kiin kiin veve resturant copenhagen

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

villa copenhagen hotel

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

nimb hotel exterior copenhagen

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

hotel d'angleterre royal suite

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

copenhill

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

glyptoteket copenhagen

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 art gallery copenhagen

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

nyhavn canal street in copenhagen

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.

Frederiksberg gardens

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

Photo of Kim Ayling

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Amateur Traveler

1 Day In Copenhagen: Complete Guide For 2024

Copenhagen

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.

1 Day In Copenhagen: Complete Guide #denmark #copenhagen #itinerary #travel #vacation #trip #holiday

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.

copenhagen online travel guide

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:

Nyhavn

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.

Little Mermaid statue

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.

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.

Rosenborg Castle

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.

Torvehallerne Food Hall in Copenhagen

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!

View from Round Tower

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.

Christiansborg Palace

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.

Tivoli Gardens Copenhagen.

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.

Copenhagen

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.

Copenhagen

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.

Copenhagen

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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How One Travel Writer Spent Her 3-Day Stay In Copenhagen

It can be done.

Courtney Falsey wearing a black skirt and a grey shirt while posing in Nyhavn

Copenhagen’s having a moment. Over the last few years, Denmark’s capital has gone from understated European city to must-visit travel destination closely on par with its London and Paris neighbors. And it’s not hard to see why. Known for its impeccable design sense, vibrant food scene (thanks in large part to Noma ), enviable street style, and hygge (which, if you don’t know, is a uniquely Danish concept that best translates to coziness), Copenhagen has a lot to be desired. Not to mention it’s often touted as the happiest city in the world. Suffice to say, I’d been itching to go. So, when I found myself attending a late August wedding in France, I immediately booked a three-night stay in Copenhagen to round out the end of my travel.

Ruby Redstone , a fashion historian who recently attended Copenhagen Fashion Week in August 2022 sums it up best: “I love Copenhagen because it’s such an easy place to be inspired. The street style is unparalleled, the food is wonderful, and you’d be hard-pressed not to love the interiors.” While I was initially worried that three days wouldn’t give me enough time to explore all that the city has to offer, I found it was actually a perfect introduction (although, trust me, you’ll want to extend if you have the chance). Of course, in order to maximize my 72 hours there, I made sure to get recommendations on what to see and where to shop and eat from those in the know beforehand.

Heads-up: While you can totally see the city at a leisurely pace, I tend to pack a lot in when I travel, and this trip was no different. Before I dive right in, there are a few things you should consider prior to booking your ticket. Firstly, it’s mostly common knowledge, but the preferred mode of transportation in Copenhagen is biking . Literally, everyone was on a bike. I would recommend either renting bikes or being prepared to walk almost everywhere (which is what we did and it was doable, but let me tell you, those step counts were high). The train is also a great option as Uber isn’t in Copenhagen and taxis are expensive.

Nyhavn waterfront, canal and entertainment district in Copenhagen, Denmark

That being said, it’s important to make sure that wherever you’re staying is close to the center of town, where most of the best shopping and dining is (Copenhagen isn’t a big city, but it’s not small, either). We stayed at the incredibly chic Hotel Sanders in Gammelholm, which was recommended by everyone I spoke to the mere moment I mentioned I was going. It’s both a stone’s throw away from Nyhavn, the candy-colored 17th-century port that populates most Google and Pinterest searches of the city, and was in close walking proximity to almost everything I wanted to do (Fun perk: The bathrooms have heated floors). However, Airbnb boasts a bevy of lovely options as well.

Holly Golightly courtesy of Courtney Falsey

Our first full day in Copenhagen was devoted entirely to shopping, although given the city’s walkability we were able to stop in to several stores throughout the day. For recommendations I turned to Redstone and Daisy Hoppen , founder of London based DH-PR , which counts the likes of Ganni, Re/Done, and Simone Rocha as clients. As far as contemporary clothing goes, both touted Holly Golightly as a nonnegotiable. Featuring Danish brands and upscale designers like Dries Van Noten alongside their own whimsical line and vintage pieces, Holly Golightly “kind of defies definition,” says Redstone. Not only is their clothing selection something to behold, but the store’s interior design is a feast for the eyes as well, boasting an eclectic mix of brightly colored tile and the coolest light fixtures and antiques. I went home with a pair of menswear-inspired, linen trousers by Danish brand AF Agger, with which I know I’ll be very happy.

If vintage is what you’re after, then you’ve got to check out Jerome Vintage . Located in the heart of the main shopping district, Jerome is a one-stop-shop for expertly curated designer pieces in a bright and airy space. I was especially tempted by a perfectly tailored Gianfranco Ferre blazer. Just a few blocks away, you’ll find one of four locations for Pico , a jewelry and accessories shop which Redstone described as being “like a candy store for hair accessories!” To my delight I arrived to find velvet headbands galore and glass cases with rows upon rows of diamante barrettes and claw clips in a rainbow of colors. Some of the clips even had cute little cherry and apple designs on them, the latter of which I got in a marbled baby pink.

For “all things Danish homeware,” Redstone recommends Stillebene . While the packed store offers everything from colorful glassware to framed artist prints, I have one word for you: Tekla. I had never seen such an assortment of the Copenhagen-based textile brand before. From their signature classic pajama sets to bath towels to impossibly soft linen bedding, if you’ve ever wanted a piece of the Tekla pie, Stillebene is the place to go.

Some of my own recommendations: For original midcentury Danish furniture, Dansk Mobelkunst Gallery is excellent. And Frama , oh, Frama. Located not far from Holly Golightly in the Nyhord district, the multidisciplinary design studio boasts minimal furniture, a selection of home goods, and an apothecary, all housed within a magnificent, turn-of-the-20th-century-era pharmacy. It’s also home to Apotek 57 , a beautiful seasonal cafe offering fresh pastries and delicious iced oat matcha lattes. Once you’ve gotten your caffeine fix, head on over to Studio X . The concept store, which has multiple locations within about a block radius, has a clothing and furniture showroom, a kitchen outpost (I’m still swooning over a set of polyethylene and marble cutting boards), and a restaurant I was told serves a wonderful breakfast and lunch.

The cardamom bun at Juno Bakery courtesy of Courtney Falsey

“Food somehow tastes better in Copenhagen,” my friend and former head buyer of Dover Street New York, Marissa Jartcky, told me just after returning from her own trip, and I couldn’t agree more. In this respect, I largely relied on Lauren Dru, founder of the luxury travel agency Escapades . After seeing her extensive and expertly vetted restaurant list, I knew I was in good hands.

Hot off the plane, we were starving, but at 3 p.m. most places were no longer serving food (something to note). So, we decided to seek out Hija de Sanchez ’s summer taco stand at the Torvehallerne market (their permanent location is in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District), a bustling indoor/outdoor food hall with a farmer’s market. Started by Noma alum, Rosio Sanchez, Hija de Sanchez “serves up quality tacos made from corn imported from Mexico and other high-quality local ingredients,” says Dru. The pork and potato tacos I got were the perfect snack before our 18-course tasting menu dinner at Michelin-starred Kadeau that evening.

From start to finish, our experience at Kadeau was perfection. Housed on a residential street, the minimal space adorned with dried flowers and herbs is meant to make you feel like you’re dining in chef Nicolai Norregaard’s own home. The menu is a love letter to the island of Bornholm, where Norregaard is from, showcasing creatively plated seafood and other local ingredients. The restaurant grows all of its own herbs, vegetables, fruits, and berries. While the menu changes seasonally, the standout dish for me was the sweet shrimp with caviar and walnut leaf.

All of my sources unanimously recommended chef Frederick Bille Brahe’s laid-back Atelier September and Apollo Bar for breakfast or lunch. Featuring favorites like avocado toast on thin rye bread, pancakes with wild blueberries and cream, and a traditional Nordic breakfast of soft-boiled eggs, cheese, and thick, crusty bread, Brahe’s restaurants are a testament to the pleasures of simple yet elegant food. Situated within Kunsthal Charlottenborg’s exhibition space, and featuring natural wines and a courtyard, Apollo Bar turns up at night as well. “I’ve had two of the most memorable nights of my travel life thus far there, which feels like a resounding endorsement if ever there were one,” Redstone says.

We also made sure to try Popl , the tasty burger joint from a handful of Noma veterans. We were lucky that the weather was beautiful during our stay, so we ended up getting our burgers to go and sat at the picnic tables on the water watching the boats go by. Hoppen had told me, “If the sun is out, pack a swimsuit and head to La Banchina for a glass of natural wine and a swim,” and while we weren’t able to make it there for this trip, the farm-to-table restaurant is one I was sad to miss.

For dinner, I had heard about several standout Asian restaurants in Copenhagen, so we decided to try Juju for some family-style Korean food. The sister restaurant to the now-closed Koan, we loved Juju’s expertly prepared dishes in a hip setting. However, the grilled mackerel at Barr Restaurant , where we dined on our final night, was one of our favorite meals of the trip. “From the team behind Noma and located within Noma’s stunning former digs, Barr is a more casual concept serving classic, comfort Danish food along with an array of craft beers,” Dru explains, and in my opinion, it’s not to be missed.

Of course, it’s not really a trip to Copenhagen if you don’t try one of the cardamom buns from Juno Bakery . Located in Osterbro, which was a bit of a trek from our hotel, the soft, pillowy pastries are what dreams are made of and were well worth the journey. And if you’re looking for a seriously great cocktail in sophisticated digs, be sure to check out Tata Bar at Hotel Sanders. It was named the best bar in Denmark two years in a row (I recommend the strawberry margarita).

The Louisiana Museum courtesy of Courtney Falsey

Our last day was dedicated to seeing Copenhagen’s cultural offerings. While it’s a half-hour car ride and hour-long train ride outside of the city, if there’s one museum you absolutely must visit, it’s The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art . “I was not prepared for how amazing it would be,” Jartcky says. “The collection and the grounds are truly special. You can make it into a whole afternoon. ... It’s situated right near the water and you can just sit outside on the lawn for hours.”

Founded in 1958, the museum was originally intended to showcase only modern Danish art. Today, it’s an international museum housing many notable works, from Picasso to Kusama. While the collection would be enough in itself, it’s the design and surrounding grounds that push The Louisiana into the spectacular. I can without a doubt say that it’s one of the most beautiful museums I have ever been to. Designed to fit in seamlessly within the landscape, it’s a shining example of Danish modern architecture. When you’re finished experiencing the indoor collection, be sure to explore the surrounding sculpture garden and take in the views of the sound. In the summer you can even bring bathing suits and swim. If you thought it couldn’t get any better, the cafe is also very good and a nice place to have lunch.

From The Louisiana, we took a short train ride to Grundtvig’s Church in the Bispebjerg district, which is a site I’d had on my own list. However, if you choose to do both The Louisiana and Grundtvig’s Church in the same afternoon like we did, I’d advise that you consider renting a car for the day as it was confusing navigating the bus back to our hotel (we ended up asking a kind shopkeeper to call us a cab). The notable gothic cathedral, which has been featured in Architectural Digest , was originally entrusted to architect Peder Vilhem Jensen Klint in 1913. Klint died before its completion, resulting in the construction being turned over to his son, Kaare Klint, who completed the project in 1940. The standout feature of Grundtvig’s Church (which was named for the Danish priest and scholar N.F.S. Grundtvig) is Jensen-Klint’s choice to construct it entirely out of yellow-gold brick. It took 5 million to erect the towering structure and the result is truly breathtaking. One note: If you go on the weekend be aware that the church still holds services and events, so you might have to kill an hour or two before it’s open to the public. If you’re looking for some attractions that are a bit more central, Hoppen names the Thorvaldsens and Glyptotek museums as favorites, and Redstone likes to visit Frederik’s Church for a typical example of Scandinavian religious architecture.

This article was originally published on Oct. 3, 2022

copenhagen online travel guide

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Essential travel guide to copenhagen, denmark.

There’s a reason that Denmark is ranked among the happiest countries in the World, and some of that joy surely transfers to tourists when they visit Copenhagen.

Copenhagen is a very welcoming city, with many iconic tourist attractions that are hard to resist. Add to that the great food you’ll find in Copenhagen, like the New Nordic Cuisine movement, and it’s a perfect place to travel.

Copenhagen, Denmark

If it hasn’t made it on your must-see list yet, our essential travel guide to Copenhagen will change your mind and have you planning a visit to Copenhagen in the near future. Our handy infographic guide will show you the best places to stay, things to do and where to eat and drink in the city.

There’s a lot of information in this fun city guide! Start planning your Copenhagen vacation right here!

You might also like:

  • What to do in Copenhagen, Denmark 
  • 3 days in Copenhagen in Winter: a Budget Itinerary

Papiroen Building

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Table of Contents

What to Do in Copenhagen

With so many things to do in Copenhagen, you really have to be good about planning out your itinerary. You’ll want to see the main sights, which is fantastic for a bike or walking tour.

Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable locations, due to the row of colorful townhouses that line the canal. You’ll also want to walk along the waterfront to see the Little Mermaid statue.

Nyhavn - be sure to visit during your 2 days in Copenhagen

There’s some really great food in Copenhagen, and the best way to find it all is on a food tour. You’ll want to book in for this Copenhagen Food & Drink Private Tour , where you’ll visit the most traditional food stands in Copenhagen.

One of the best ways to see all the major sights of the city is to go on a walking tour that will take you the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kronborg Castle and Frederiksborg Castle, the largest Renaissance-era castle in Scandinavia.

copenhagen little mermaid

Tours to Book

If you want to book some fun activities before you go, feel free to use the links below to book tours through Viator or GetYourGuide. (Thanks for using our links! These are affiliate links from which we will receive a small commission.)

Don’t forget to get your Copenhagen Card , which will gain you free entry to 73 top Copenhagen attractions, plus free, unlimited use of the city’s public transportation networks.

  • Copenhagen Canal Tour
  • Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour
  • Copenhagen City Small Group Bike Tour
  • Grand Day Trip Around Copenhagen

What to Eat in Copenhagen

Smorrebrod

There is quite a trendy food scene in Copenhagen that spans from the natural organic food movement to the New Nordic cuisine made popular by noma. Just the plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants in the city should say enough about the calibre of chefs.

If you can afford it, check out one of the 16 Michelin restaurants, like Geranium or Relae or the Thai-fusion Kiin Kiin. For a cheaper meal, head to one of Copenhagen’s many street food areas like Reffen or The Bridge Street Kitchen.

Some top foods to look out for are

  • Smørrebrød – a slice of rye bread with various toppings, often eaten for lunch
  • Flæskesteg – the Danish version of roast pork, is considered to be one of Denmark’s principal national dishes.
  • Fiskefrikadeller – Danish Fish Cakes
  • Pickled herring
  • New Nordic Cuisine

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Hotel Kong Arthur

Here are three affordable luxury hotels in Copenhagen that we recommend. Public transportation in Copenhagen is very useful for getting around to all parts of the city, so you don’t need to stay in the city center to see everything.

In fact, things are a bit too spread out to walk everywhere, so a bus or bike rental will be necessary anyway. Book your hotels or read more reviews by clicking these links: (These are affiliate links, for which we earn a small commission.)

  • Hotel Kong Arthur:   The hotel is lovely, very comfortable with a relaxed vibe and great location.  Read reviews  |   Check prices
  • Copenhagen Admiral Hotel: The hotel is in a great location and has an excellent outdoor bar/restaurant right on the water.   Read reviews  |   Check prices
  • Copenhagen Marriott Hotel: Located right on the waterfront, this hotel has incredible views. It’s located near Tivoli Gardens. Read Reviews | Check prices

Essential Travel Guide to Copenhagen

essential travel guide to Copenhagen Denmark

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Laura

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

9 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark ”

Have you shared any Denmark travel blog because next month i wil be there, so i have posted sharing the link.

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This is great! I’m traveling to Copenhagen tomorrow and I have starred this post on my phone so i can make sure to stop by some of these places! Thank you for sharing. x michelle

Awesome, Michelle. I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time there.

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Copenhagen   Travel Guide

copenhagen online travel guide

19 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark

Although you won't hear about Copenhagen as often compared to cities like Paris or London , the Danish capital is full of wonderful sights and experiences to treasure. Beyond the traditional tourist sights   –   Tivoli Gardens ,  The Little Mermaid and

  • All Things To Do

copenhagen online travel guide

Nyhavn Nyhavn free

Situated in the central Indre By neighborhood, this bustling area once served as Copenhagen's commercial port. Today, the region features a variety of eateries inside its restored homes, some of which were built in the late 1600s. In fact, a few famous artists and writers formerly lived in Nyhavn, including Heinrich Gustav Ferdinand Holm (a painter and engraver best known for his Copenhagen depictions) and Hans Christian Andersen (who penned fairy tales like "The Little Mermaid" and "The Ugly Duckling").

Previous visitors loved grabbing a drink or bite to eat in Nyhavn, although some cautioned that prices here are high and that it was touristy. Additionally, several raved about the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, which takes place in Nyhavn every July. Many past travelers also recommended signing up for one of the area's canal tours with Stromma Denmark or Netto-Badene . Both operators' tours are available in English, last about an hour and depart daily from Nyhavn. Stromma Danmark's tours cost 129 Danish kroner (roughly $19) for adults and 60 kroner (approximately $9) for kids ages 6 to 15, while Netto-Badene's tours will set you back 8 euros (about $10) per adult and 3 euros (less than $4) for each child.

copenhagen online travel guide

Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot) Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab a bite at the neighboring Elsinore Street Food Market, where you can enjoy Moroccan tagine, Mexican tacos, Argentinian empanadas and more. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Though you'll have to trek 30 miles north of Copenhagen to reach Kronborg Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed structure in Helsingør can't be missed. Built in 1574, this Renaissance-style castle played a strategic role in Danish politics and commerce thanks to its location by the Sound Dues. The property also famously served as the setting for Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Unique features you'll find here include a 197-foot-long ballroom, a collection of 16th-century tapestries and the casemates, underground passages once used to protect soldiers and horses during wars.

copenhagen online travel guide

Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot) Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)

Located on Castle Island in Copenhagen's Indre By neighborhood, Christiansborg Palace houses offices for Denmark's queen, Parliament and prime minister. Rebuilt in 1928 after the two former palaces burned down, the current structure sits atop ruins from the original palace. Rooms inside the present-day palace include the Royal Stables, a 19th-century chapel, the Throne Room and a dining hall.

Visitors praise this palace's interesting exhibits and stunning architecture, adding that the property's tower offers breathtaking city vistas. To make the most of your visit, travelers recommend getting a ticket that allows access to all four entry points: the castle, ruins, Royal Kitchen and stables.

copenhagen online travel guide

Popular Tours

Grand Day Trip around Copenhagen

Grand Day Trip around Copenhagen

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from $ 164.19

Hamlet And Sweden Tour from Copenhagen- Two Countries in One Day!

Hamlet And Sweden Tour from Copenhagen- Two Countries in One Day!

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The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour

The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour

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copenhagen online travel guide

Vesterbro Vesterbro free

U.S. News Insider Tip: When the weather permits, take a swim at Islands Brygge Harbour Bath. This open air swimming spot is popular with both locals and visitors. It's just over the canal from Vesterbro, easily accessible by foot or cycle. - Sarah Lempa

Hip and happening Vesterbro was formerly known as Copenhagen's red light district. Today, visitors can enjoy an eclectic mix of a classy restaurant scene, unique boutiques, buzzy nightlife venues – and a few lingering adult shops and strip bars. Vesterbro's Meatpacking District is notorious for throwing a good party, a place where you'll find everything from chill breweries to thumping clubs, plus a range of cuisine from food stands to fancy eateries with impressively designed dishes. It's a place to see and be seen, where the event calendar is full and the socialites frequent. If you're in the mood to stay out until sunrise, this is the place for you.

copenhagen online travel guide

Rosenborg Castle Rosenborg Castle

Located west of Frederiksstaden, Rosenborg Castle was constructed during the Dutch Renaissance and completed in 1633 by King Christian IV. Today, visitors can see how the royal lived during that time, including the speaking tubes (the medieval version of intercom systems), the dining halls and the chamber where the king died in 1648. 

A favorite of past visitors was the castle's collection of Danish crown jewels. Many also raved about the property's superb architecture, though some wished there was more information displayed in each exhibit. Others suggested saving time for relaxing in the on-site garden. 

copenhagen online travel guide

Amalienborg Palace Amalienborg Palace

Right in the heart of Copenhagen lies Amalienborg Palace: a rich piece of Danish history where you can explore the royal grounds and learn about past decades in the on-site Amalienborg Museum. Every day, visitors can witness the changing of the royal guards at noon as they return from the barracks near Rosenborg Castle back to the palace. It's a sight to see, and so is the actual palace. Four ornately designed buildings – Christian VII's Palace, Frederik VIII's Palace, Christian IX's Palace, and Christian VIII's Palace – make up the grounds. In Christian VIII's Palace, you'll find the Amalienborg Museum which allows you to view the interior, more private rooms of the palace.

Amalienborg Palace remains the official residence for Denmark's royal family to this day, which makes it quite an interesting visit – a place where both centuries past and present moment collide. History buffs will particularly adore this attraction, not to mention everyone else who will more than likely enjoy a stroll around the stately grounds. Recent visitors had positive things to say about the changing of the guards, along with the architecture and overall palace presentation.

copenhagen online travel guide

Copenhagen Walking Tours Copenhagen Walking Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If your legs tire, rent a GoBoat and become the captain of your own canal cruise. I'd highly recommend packing a picnic for the ride with a few friends.– Sarah Lempa

Copenhagen's relatively small size and concentration of noteworthy sights in the central Indre By district make it easy to explore on foot. Available walking tours range from food-focused experiences with tastings to traditional walks that delve into the city's history.

copenhagen online travel guide

National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet)

The National Museum of Denmark is considered one of Europe's best museums. It presents the broad spectrum of the country's history – from the days of the Vikings to the Danish Renaissance to the welfare state of the late 20th century. The museum's immense collection also includes artifacts from Danish pre-history, Egyptian mummies and coin exhibits from ancient Greece and Rome. It also features a separate children's museum that offers interactive exhibits for little ones, plus other sites throughout Denmark, including the Museum of Danish Resistance, located just north of Amalienborg Palace .

Past travelers described this museum as well-organized and informative, with an impressive amount of artifacts from around the globe. They found it to be well-maintained and easy to navigate.

copenhagen online travel guide

Copenhagen Sightseeing Classic Canal Tour With Live Guide

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copenhagen online travel guide

Tivoli Gardens Tivoli Gardens

Located just inside Indre By's southwestern boundary – a short walk from  Strøget  – is Tivoli Gardens. First opened in 1843, this property is now one of Europe's most visited theme parks, featuring an assortment of restaurants, theaters and dance halls. Younger children will enjoy the rides, games and shows in Rasmus Klumps World, but there are plenty more attractions for kids of all ages, including a restored roller coaster that was originally built in 1914. When you're not getting your thrills on the rides, stroll through a Chinese-inspired bamboo forest or the Nimb water fountains to admire the marine animals in the aquarium and more. The property also hosts ballets, concerts and other live performances.

Recent visitors said the rides and light installations (which are available every winter) are not to be missed, but some were disappointed with the high prices (rides require extra fees). Others noted that if you plan to visit in winter, do so during Christmastime, as the park and rides close from January to March.

copenhagen online travel guide

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

If you're a fan of art and archaeology, then you'll love perusing Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek's exhibits. Founded in 1888, this museum and research institute houses more than 10,000 pieces, including portrait heads from ancient Greece and 19th-century French sculptures. Famous artists represented here range from post-impressionist painter Paul Gauguin to sculptor Auguste Rodin.

According to past visitors, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek offers an impressive collection that you can easily spend hours viewing. Previous museumgoers also enjoyed grabbing a coffee or bite to eat at the on-site cafe, citing its charming location by the property's Winter Garden as one of the main reasons to return.

copenhagen online travel guide

Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) free

One of Denmark's most iconic religious sites is the Church of Our Saviour in Christianshavn. Built in the 1680s and opened in 1696, this Palladian-style church was designed by Danish architect Lambert van Haven. Inside, you'll find a carillon with 48 bells, an organ built in 1698 and an altar that depicts a scene from the New Testament. But the church's standout detail is its oak spire. Created by Danish architect Lauritz de Thurah, the impressive spire features an outdoor spiral staircase, gilded iron rails and a gilded statue of Christ on a globe.

Travelers rave about the Church of Our Saviour's architecture, with many saying that the property's biggest draw is the view from its spire. If you want to climb the spire's staircase, time your visit on a calm, sunny day between late February and mid-December, since the spire closes every winter and on windy, snowy or rainy days. Visitors also suggest arriving early to enjoy more elbow room during your climb.

copenhagen online travel guide

Round Tower (Rundetaarn) Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

Located a few blocks north of  Strøget  in downtown Copenhagen, the Round Tower, completed in 1642, is one of the city's many landmarks built during King Christian IV's reign in the 17th century. Designed as an astronomy observatory, the tower still serves that function in some capacity but is best known for its spectacular city views. The building also features the Library Hall, an exhibition space and event venue.

Visitors say this tower is an architectural marvel, adding that its sunset panoramas are especially breathtaking. But if you're out of shape, some caution that the climb to the top might be a little strenuous.

copenhagen online travel guide

Botanical Garden - University of Copenhagen Botanical Garden - University of Copenhagen free

Relaxing and well-kept, the Botanical Garden at the University of Copenhagen is a welcoming place of respite in the heart of the city. As a part of the Natural History Museum, it holds the largest collection of living plants in all of Denmark. The Palm House, a Victorian-style building in the center of the garden, houses subtropical and tropical plants. There's also the Butterfly House within Palm House, which lives up to its namesake with butterflies of all types from chrysalis to flying in the air.

The winding paths of the gardens make it a formidable place to take a walk, read a book, or just hang out in the quiet. Well-shaded and lined with plant life of all types, there's always something new to stop and take a look at. Recent viewers praised the calming atmosphere of the garden, urging fellow travelers to take a break from the city life to enjoy some greenery. They raved about visiting on a sunny summer's day, but also encouraged year-round visits to take in the indoor plant life that stays vibrant even in the winter.

copenhagen online travel guide

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copenhagen online travel guide

Refshaleøen Refshaleøen free

For more than a century, Refshaleøen was merely a shipyard. Nowadays, the former industrial zone is a trendy area home to creative arts, cuisine of all backgrounds, and leisure areas to enjoy the outdoors. Makeover is an understatement – this district has now become a major social area, drawing both locals and travelers. The landmass of Refshaleøen is actually an island just northeast of Copenhagen's city center, jutting out onto the water across from the Langelinie pier.

Stop by Reffen , a well-loved street food market with plenty of options ranging from Danish to Nepalese, Greek, Mexican, and more. Art lovers will delight in Copenhagen Contemporary , a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits. And for the adventurous souls: Copenhagen Cable Park offers an opportunity to try water sports in a safe environment.

copenhagen online travel guide

Strøget Strøget free

U.S. News Insider Tip: When you're ready for a break from the touristy areas, hang out in Superkilen , a creatively designed park in Nørrebro. With a concrete hill decorated by wavy white lines and plenty of space to hang out, it's worth a visit. - Sarah Lempa

Situated in Indre By between H. C. Andersens Boulevard and King's New Square (to the west and east, respectively), Strøget is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and Copenhagen's largest shopping area. It contains a series of interconnected streets that are lined with numerous boutiques and cafes. You'll find upscale brands like Burberry, Gucci and Louis Vuitton here, so make sure to bring your credit card.

copenhagen online travel guide

The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) free

One of Copenhagen's most iconic, yet petite, attractions is its Little Mermaid statue. Located just south of Langelinie pier in Østerbro, the statue is based on the fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen. It is made of bronze and granite, and has been a fixture on Copenhagen's waterfront since 1913.

Although some visitors say this statue is a bit underwhelming to see, others recommend making the trek to it, citing its harbor view as its best feature. Tourists regularly flock here, so if you're hoping for a photo op, consider arriving early or late in the day.

copenhagen online travel guide

ARKEN Museum of Modern Art ARKEN Museum of Modern Art

The ARKEN Museum of Modern Art sits right on the Køge Bay waterfront. This museum is surrounded by shorelines, and offers a tranquil break from the sidewalks and cycling paths of central Copenhagen. Not only is it full of unique exhibitions from both Danish and international artists, the building itself is a work of art. It was designed to mimic a ship, which is fitting considering Ishøj Beach is just steps away. The art exhibitions range from immersive installations to sculpture, video and digital art. Plus, rotating exhibits means there's always something new here.

Travelers loved the combination between modern art and nature, plus the on-site cafe and overall atmosphere of the museum. Many described it as a must-see when in Copenhagen, especially since it's quite easy to get to.

copenhagen online travel guide

Freetown Christiania Freetown Christiania free

Ever-so intriguing, Freetown Christiania is actually a controversial part of Copenhagen due to its completely different set of rules – resulting from the fact that it's completely independent of the Danish government. Within the hippie community that calls Christiania home, cannabis trade is abundant and accepted. You'll find a list of rules near the district's main entrance on Pusher Street, one of which is a zero-tolerance policy for violence.

The area was formerly a military base, which was abandoned, leading to it sitting empty for many years. In the early 1970s, people began squatting there – resulting in an entire community of around 1,000 with their own rules and regulations separate from the Danish government. Within Christiania's walls, you'll find plenty of creativity, art, community social gatherings, cafes, and restaurants. The buildings are colorful, often adorned with murals and other artwork.

copenhagen online travel guide

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Copenhagen Card DISCOVER 80 attractions and public transport

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copenhagen online travel guide

Kastellet Kastellet free

Copenhagen's citadel, Kastellet, is one of the better preserved fortresses in the northern part of Europe. This star-shaped landmass is easy to spot on the map, commonly inducing curiosity of most who see it online before visiting in person. This 17th century fortress is accompanied by barracks, a church, plus a museum – although walking around the grounds feels like an entire museum visit in and of itself. Between the architecture and the waterfront location, exploring the grounds by foot is the best way to experience Kastellet.

Visitors described Kastellet as even better in person, a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in Copenhagen. On the shoreline, you can also see the famous Den Lille Havfrue – The Little Mermaid sculpture created by Edvard Eriksen.  Just south lies Langelinieparken, an open grassy area right on the waterfront.

copenhagen online travel guide

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Copenhagen Travel Guide

Charming Copenhagen has its way of capturing hearts. It's the place where old world charm—think cobble stone streets, towers and turrets—meets sleek Scandinavian design. Enjoy the new Nordic cuisine in some of the world's best restaurants or just grab a beer and people watch in Nyhavn—you might even spot a prince! — Inga Ros Antoniusdottir

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28 Best Things To Do in Copenhagen – Local Favourites & Hidden Gems 🇩🇰

I'm danish and live in the capital, so i know the best things to do in copenhagen. i'll share the top things to do in this guide and hidden gems..

Kristoffer Fons avatar

If you are going on holiday to Copenhagen soon, you can already look forward to experiencing a fantastic city with lots of epic things to do.

I have included 28 things to do in Copenhagen in this guide, but this is just a fraction of everything you can experience.

Planning a last minute trip to Copenhagen? I'm a Danish travel blogger who lives in Copenhagen . Here are a few of my top tips for the Danish Capital. 🇩🇰 Top Activities & Tours : 1. Tivoli Gardens + Unlimited Rides Ticket (skip-the-line tickets are essential in high-season!) 2. Canal Cruise from Nyhavn (awesome way to see the city and The Little Mermaid) 3. Rent a GoBoat and cruise the harbour (my favourite thing to do in Summer) 4. The Round Tower (free entrance with the Copenhagen Card ) 5. Guided Tour to Malmö, Lund and Hamlet's Castle in Elsinore 🛌 Places to Stay : 1. Manon Les Suites (luxury hotel with indoor pool & Bali-vibes) 2. Copenhagen Strand (mid-range hotel near Nyhavn) 3. Next House Copenhagen (best cheap hotel in the city centre) 🚇 The Copenhagen Card is honestly a no-brainer: every tourist should get this for easy access to public transport & huge discounts on a lot of activities in Copenhagen.

Travel blogger in Copenhagen

You’re also more than welcome to comment below with any Copenhagen-related questions you may have, as mentioned in the beginning: I live here, so I know a thing or two about the city 😉

Let’s get started with the guide: what to do in Copenhagen?

1. Rent a boat and sail the harbour

2. tivoli gardens, 3. amalienborg castle, 4. christiansborg, 5. kronborg castle (day trip from copenhagen), 6. canal tour, 7. the little mermaid, 8. the citadel (kastellet), 9. experience copenhagen nightlife on a bar crawl, 10. beer tastings in copenhagen, 11. walking tour, 12. food tour, 13. freetown christiania, 14. the meat packing district (kødbyen), 15. copenhagen zoo, 16. bakken (free amusement park), 17. national aquarium of denmark (den blå planet), 18. copenhagen street food (reffen), 20. the national museum, 21. go to malmö, sweden, 22. national gallery of denmark (smk), 23. the marble church, 24. copenhill.

  • 25. Rundetårn (The Round Tower)

26. Rosenborg Castle & The Crown Jewels

27. frederiksberg gardens, 28. the tube copenhagen, what is copenhagen best known for, what is the one thing you recommend doing in copenhagen, what are the best free things to do in copenhagen, what time of year is best to visit copenhagen, what is a must eat in copenhagen.

goboat copenhagen

This is my absolute favourite thing to do in Copenhagen.

It is surprising how much fun it is to sail around and be able to control where you are going.

Goboat check in Copenhagen

The boats sail pretty slowly, so there is never any danger, but at the same time it also means that you do not reach very much in 1 hour so I’d recommend booking the boat for at least 2 hours.

There are many different providers of boats, but GoBoat is the best known.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Copenhagen among locals, so make sure you book your boat online well in advance.

hey captain copenhagen boat

If you don’t feel like steering the boat yourself, you can also relatively cheaply book a small boat with your own captain , who will take care of sailing you around to the most famous sights and the hidden gems you wouldn’t usually know about.

copenhagen harbour tour with captain

In addition, the captain tells you about everything you see from the boat, so if you want to get total value and see some of the city’s best sights from the canal in your own boat, it makes good sense to rent this boat.

See more and book online here .

tivoli gardens copenhagen

If you are going to Copenhagen, you must visit Tivoli .

It is always worth the time and the money to visit the beautiful garden and amusement park in the heart of Copenhagen.

If you want to make it easier for yourself to visit Tivoli, you can book your tickets from home.

You decide for yourself whether you want to settle for an entrance ticket so you can walk around and enjoy the garden or whether you also want a tour pass so you can come up and try the many rides.

Both tickets can be bought online.

winter in tivoli copenhagen

There are plenty of restaurants, bars and street-food options in Tivoli, so I got to warn you: once you go in, you might end up spending longer than you think 😀

Tivoli is one of the main tourist attractions in Copenhagen, but it’s also close to every Danes’ heart as we’ve all got so many fond memories of coming here as children.

So this is truly one of the top things to do in Copenhagen.

Get tickets to Tivoli here and skip the queue .

Especially in the summer, there can be long queues, so getting a skip-the-line ticket is a good idea.

If you’ve bought the Copenhagen Card , your entry to Tivoli Gardens is covered.

amalienborg castle

If you are interested in the Danish royal family, you should make your way past Amalienborg Castle. This is where Denmark’s monarch lives, which means Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II at the time of writing.

You will find Amalienborg Castle close to several other attractions in the centre of Copenhagen, which are also worth visiting if you pass by.

If you pass by Amalienborg Castle, you can time it to experience the changing of the guard of the Queen’s Guards, which takes place at 12.

It’s not as spectacular as in London , but it’s worth seeing.

The castle square is surrounded by the four royal mansions forming Amalienborg Castle together. These are Christian VII, Christian VIII, Christian IX, and Frederik VIII.

In the latter, you will find the Amalienborg Museum, where you can step directly into history and see royal life from the inside.

The Copenhagen Card gives access to Amalienborg Castle.

Have you booked your hotel in Copenhagen yet? I’d recommend you check out my extensive guide on where to stay in Copenhagen .

christiansborg

When you have visited where the Danish regent resides, you should almost also make your way past Christiansborg Castle, or just Christiansborg as it is colloquially referred to.

You can visit Denmark’s most important workplace, Folketinget – the parliament.

One of the unique things about Christiansborg’s history must be that the castle burned down twice, so the building was built over three stages. The last time it burned was on 3 October 1884, and it was not until 1928 that the castle was considered to have been finally rebuilt.

Today, the castle is divided into two, with the Folketinget housed in one wing, while the Royal House represents the other.

christiansborg statue

It is possible to get guided tours of both the Parliament and the royal chambers, but you must be aware that the two bodies are divided, and you must therefore book tickets for both places if you want to see both parts of the palace.

By now, you’ve probably guessed what grants you access to Christiansborg?

Yep, the Copenhagen Card .

kronborg castle

The next castle on the list is Kronborg Castle in Elsinore, one of Denmark’s most important and beautiful castles. However, I would only recommend visiting it if you have several days to do well in Copenhagen.

The tour can quickly take a few hours out of your day, so if you are short on time and want to see as much as possible, you should focus on everything you can see inside Copenhagen itself. But if you have time, Kronborg in Elsinore is a great experience.

Here you can follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, where Kronborg, or Elsinore, plays a central role. The castle was given precisely that location because of its location, right where Øresund is narrowest.

It was a strategically important location for Denmark to have a fortress because it was the only way to the baltic sea.

kronborg in elsinore

Since 1938, Kronborg has been open to the public, and you have the opportunity, among other things, to visit Holger Danske ( Ogier the Dane ), who sits in the casemates under the castle – ready to wake up if Denmark is in danger!

Book a day trip to Kronborg, Roskilde and Frederiksborg here (the tour gets fantastic reviews).

You could also take the train from Copenhagen Central Station to Elsinore which takes 45 minutes and then walk to the Castle in just about 15 mins.

And yes – the Copenhagen Card covers the entrance to Kronborg as well.

copenhagen canal tour

One of the best experiences and things to do in Copenhagen is a tour of the canals .

On a canal cruise, you will be sailed past some of the city’s most important monuments and buildings, and along the way, you will be told lively stories about the Copenhagen sights you pass along the way.

The guide will speak Danish and English, which is understandable for everyone.

Your canal cruise can start from Nyhavn, for example.

The trip around Copenhagen’s beautiful canals usually takes an hour, so there is plenty of room in the schedule to experience many other things in Copenhagen on the same day.

opera house copenhagen

On the trip around the canals, you will, among other things, pass monuments and buildings such as:

  • The Little Mermaid
  • Christiansborg
  • Amalienborg Castle
  • The National Bank
  • The Opera House

You can find tickets for canal cruises online here (including Hop On Hop Off sightseeing busses as well).

the little mermaid copenhagen

Yes, I need to include The Little Mermaid in my guide to things to do in Copenhagen. Why? Because it is one of the city’s best-known sights and something many tourists want to see.

If you ask me about my honest opinion on The Little Mermaid, I would say that you shouldn’t go out of your way and see the little statue only for the experience – you should do it only if you fancy the walk from Nyhavn.

Here’s my video where I’m showing The Little Mermaid and what to do instead:

There’s a standing joke here in Denmark – and I’m not sure if it’s true – that once a tourist asked a tour guide if it was possible to get to “the top of the little mermaid”.

She was devastated when she learned that The Little Mermaid is, in fact – very little…

Okay, so I’ve mentioned her – no more about The Little Mermaid (Copenhagen’s most overrated thing to do) in this guide 😀

On the other hand, I would like to mention her neighbour, Kastellet.

copenhagen citadel kastellet

Right next to The Little Mermaid is one of Copenhagen’s old defences, Kastellet .

Denmark’s military still uses the Citadel, but it is open to us ordinary citizens, and you can have a nice walk on the ramparts.

From here you can actually also look over to The Little Mermaid – if you can spot her (she truly is tiny) 😅

From Kastellet, you should also make your way past the beautiful Gefion Fountain and St Alban’s Church .

copenhagen bar crawl

If you want to get out and experience the nightlife in Copenhagen, it might be an idea to book a place on a genuine bar crawl.

You, and the rest of the evening’s group, will be guided around by a knowledgeable guide on the trip.

You will pass many different bars and clubs, and you can look forward to skipping the queue as part of the pub crawl group. Along the way, there will be free shots, drinks, access and wardrobe, and you will get special offers on drinks at the places you pass.

Please note that you must be over 18 to participate in a bar crawl, as under 18’s can’t legally buy alcohol in bars in Denmark.

These pub crawls bring together people from all over the world, so it’s the perfect opportunity to meet lots of new and exciting people.

Read more about the next bar crawl here and meet lots of new people.

beer tasting copenhagen

Denmark has some of the world’s best breweries. And I am not talking about Carlsberg, which, unfortunately, probably takes the prize for being the best-known Danish beer.

No, we have many exciting microbreweries, and the best-known in craft beer is probably Mikkeller .

Mikkeller has many bars around Copenhagen, and at several of these, you can go to beer tastings, where you can taste a variety of their best beers.

I’d recommend looking at places like Fermentoren , Warpigs , ÅBEN , People Like Us Nørrebro (my friend works here, so if you’re served by a guy called Mathias, say hi from Kris 😀 ), Himmeriget and BRUS for some fantastic craft beer in Copenhagen.

See the best-rated beer tastings in Copenhagen here .

walking tour copenhagen

If you are pushed for time and want to experience as much of the city as possible, a guided walking tour in Copenhagen is perfect.

The tour takes two hours, and along the way, you will pass as many of Copenhagen’s historical and cultural sights and buildings as possible.

In this way, you also avoid having to plan your trip around the city yourself. It has been taken care of for you, and you have a guide with you throughout the tour to explain and discuss the things and places you pass.

Along the way, you will pass by places such as Christiansborg, Amalienborg Castle, Strøget and Nyhavn.

If there are any of the places you would like to experience close by, you can always go back there yourself when the city walk is over.

The tour is the perfect starting point to form an overview of the city, which can be good to have during the rest of your stay in Copenhagen.

Read more about the two-hour walking tour .

copenhagen food tour

If you want to experience the best of Copenhagen’s food scene, you should go on a dedicated food tour with a guide who will take you past the city’s tastiest eateries.

There are several different tours, but a safe choice is CPH Foodtours . They have many years of experience and therefore know exactly how to organise the perfect food tour in Copenhagen.

On this food tour, you’ll start in Torvehallerne, which is Copenhagen’s best-known food market and past several places with everything from custard buns to smørrebrød (the famous Danish open-faced sandwiches ), so if you want to experience the best Copenhagen’s culinary scene has to offer, it’s an excellent choice – and your guide will take you under their wing, so you get lots of exciting information.

See more about the tour and book online here .

If there is one area that is a must to experience when you are in Copenhagen, it is, of course, Christiania .

The area has become Denmark’s answer and symbol of free spirit and, not least, freedom. At Christiania, creative and alternative initiatives and measures abound.

You will find, for example, venues, galleries, restaurants, cafes, workshops and a lot of other exciting and interesting places in the area. You will find many gift ideas and good craftsmanship in the small shops.

All kinds of people live in Christiania, but unfortunately, a small fraction helps to give Christiania a tarnished reputation in the media.

The area is much more than just Pusher Street . It is beautiful nature, happy people, music, colours, originality and ingenuity.

If you come to Copenhagen and have never been to Christiania, you should go out and experience it yourself.

Consider booking a private guided tour for the full experience.

As the name suggests, the Meat Packing District – or Kødbyen in Danish – is Copenhagen’s old Meat Packing District, which 20-30 years ago was anything but a thing to do in Copenhagen.

However, a lot has happened, and Kødbyen in the Vesterbro area is now one of the trendiest places to visit a restaurant or bar.

I love the beer bars Warpigs and ÅBEN, while you can also eat everything from burgers at Tommis Burger Joint to pizza at Mother and seafood at Kødbyens Fiskebar.

A perfect place to stop by if you want to experience Copenhagen nightlife.

copenhagen zoo

Whether you are travelling to Copenhagen with children or not, it is also recommended to take a trip past Copenhagen Zoo, which, together with the parks and gardens in the city, acts as a breather from the rest of Copenhagen’s hustle and bustle.

You can easily spend many hours in the Zoo, so if you need something to do one day, it is an obvious destination.

The Zoo here is open every day all year round, so regardless of when you come to Copenhagen, you also have the opportunity to go to the Zoo.

In the garden, you can greet hundreds of animal species, such as the newly arrived pandas, polar bears, hippos, chimpanzees, sea lions, flamingos, and many more.

You will also find several eating places in the Zoo, where you can have a hearty lunch before heading out to see the other half of the garden.

The entrance is included with your Copenhagen Card .

There is another amusement park in the capital area in addition to Tivoli – called Bakken .

Bakken is a beautiful destination for a fun day trip for the whole family. Here, young and old can have a fun and experiential day speeding across the field.

You can easily take the S-train to Klampenborg St, which is a few hundred metres from the main entrance.

You will find many rides, restaurants, stalls, cafes and candy shops on Bakken. It costs nothing to enter, so if you don’t want to try the rides, you can quickly go to Bakken and enjoy the atmosphere and surroundings for free.

Otherwise, you can buy a tour pass if you dare to try the slides and carousels.

Bakken is open from April to September, and there is a sea of ​​events and activities you can choose to participate in every year.

national aquarium denmark

The most visited attractions in Copenhagen are Tivoli, followed by Bakken and Copenhagen Zoo. Not far from these mastodons, which have existed for almost many years, we find a fascinating attraction which has only recently opened its doors.

I am talking about the National Aquarium of Denmark, which we call Den Blå Planet (The Blue Planet), and you will find it in Kastrup on Amager – easy to get to with the metro line towards the Airport .

Over 600,000 people visit Den Blå Planet , Northern Europe’s largest exhibition aquarium, every year. Here you and the family can meet and greet over 450 different species and nothing less than over 20,000 sea animals.

At Den Blå Planet , you can try everything from diving with sharks and getting up close to the mighty sea turtles, or how about going behind the scenes and getting a guided tour of the vast aquarium?

Read more and get tickets here .

If you want a different and exciting taste experience out of the ordinary, you should also stop by Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food.

It is nothing less than Northern Europe’s largest street food market, where food stalls from as many as 17 different nationalities are gathered with one purpose – to serve delicious new and exotic dishes to both the locals and the tourists in the city.

However, the reef is only open seasonally, so the area is closed during winter.

At Reffen, you are guaranteed to find something for every taste, and you can already look forward to sinking your teeth into the many tasty delicacies.

You will find everything from appetisers to main courses and desserts, and next to that, you will also find a large selection of drinks, including cocktails, wine, water and beer.

If you doubt where to enjoy dinner, you should head for Reffen. There are so many stalls and specialities that you can go there many evenings without trying it all.

nyhavn cph

I have mentioned Nyhavn a few times in this article, but the harbour quarter also deserves a point of its own.

Hundreds of thousands of Danes and tourists drop by Nyhavn every year, and there is probably nothing more beautiful or charming than a warm sunny day in Nyhavn.

Whether you sit down at one of the many cafes or restaurants to enjoy a traditional Danish lunch or go for a walk along the water and soak up the good atmosphere, there is probably no cosier place in Copenhagen than Nyhavn.

For many years, the area has been one of the city’s iconic neighbourhoods. Although in the first many years, it housed taverns for the city’s many sailors, today it has taken on a much more positive appearance and now the image of Nyhavn is a much nicer and more peaceful one of a kind.

danish national museum

Between Tivoli and Christiansborg, you will find the National Museum , housed in the beautiful Prinsens Palæ , where it has been since its opening in 1849, as the Danish state took over the buildings.

If you want to get under the skin of Denmark’s entire history, the National Museum is the right place to visit. Here you can see treasures that are all significant relics from the shared Danish past.

A trip to the National Museum is the ideal thing to do in Copenhagen for the whole family, as even the smallest can join in.

Visit the National Museum and step directly into Danish and world history.

The museum also contains a café and a restaurant, where you can conveniently enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal on top of your museum visit.

Get tickets online here or simply use your Copenhagen Card .

malmo sweden

You can also kill two birds with one stone in Copenhagen and experience two countries on the same trip. Because Copenhagen is a short drive to Sweden , it is obvious to take a quick trip across the strait if you are in the capital.

For example, you can take a full-day trip across the Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen . On the trip, you will experience both Lund and Malmø, right on the other side of the water.

The trip lasts around six hours, and it is a unique opportunity to experience Swedish culture and history now that you are so close to our neighbouring country.

national gallery denmark

Here at the end of the guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen, we will also include a trip to the National Gallery of Denmark called Statens Museum for Kunst .

Close by; you will also find the Geological Museum and the State Museum of Natural History, which it is obvious to visit in the same vein.

The National Gallery, or SMK as it is also called, is Denmark’s leading art museum. Over a quarter of a million people come here every year. With the museum’s extensive and long-standing collection considered, it is not difficult to understand why it is so famous.

SMK has many Danish and international works of art, including works by artists like Rembrandt, Mantegna and Rubens. The museum’s collections span the last 700 years, so there is plenty to discover when you enter through the doors at SMK.

marble church copenhagen

One of Copenhagen’s most beautiful churches is between Nyhavn and The Little Mermaid. The church is called Frederiks Kirke but is known as the Marble Church – and that is also the name of the metro station ( Marmorkirken ) just below the church, so it is probably okay to call it that.

The church is from the 18th century, and the beautiful dome is the largest in Scandinavia.

You can come inside for services, and there are often concerts in the church.

Follow the church’s website here .

copenhill ski area in copenhagen

Admittedly, it gets freezing in Copenhagen in the winter, so we could probably have a ski slope or a ski area as we know it in Sweden or Norway. The problem is that Copenhagen and the rest of Denmark are almost as flat as a pancake.

So what do you do?

You build a ski area on an old waste plant in the middle of Copenhagen – welcome to Copenhill .

I don’t ski, but I have been out on Copenhill several times, which is free if you want to experience the view of Copenhagen – and I can recommend it.

You can either hike to the top (it’s steep but only takes a few minutes) or take the lift up to the top, where the ski slope starts, but where there’s also a large viewing area and a bar.

To ski, you must buy a Ski Pass or a combined Pass with rental equipment .

25. Rundetårn ( The Round Tower )

round tower copenhagen

Rundetårn is, as the name suggests – it means The Round Tower in Danish, a round tower, and with its location right in the centre of Copenhagen, this is undoubtedly the best place to get a 360-degree rooftop view of the entire Danish capital.

Rundetårn is located in the city centre on one of the pedestrian streets, and I must admit that I think this is one of Copenhagen’s best things to do.

And it’s value for money – it only costs DKK 40 to get up to Rundetårn. But then you also have to walk all the way, so for those with walking difficulties and the elderly, it is not the best attraction.

rundetårn copenhagen

The view from the top is magnificent. In the pictures here, I was up in the tower in December, right around sunset, and it was lovely!

I showed some English friends around Copenhagen, and they also loved Rundetårn, so foreign tourists approve it 😀

copenhagen skyline from the round tower

You buy tickets at the entrance, but if you have purchased the Copenhagen Card , the Round Tower is also included – just like so many other attractions and experiences in Copenhagen.

Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen City Centre

Yes, another castle! But this one’s in the city centre, so I recommend dropping by Rosenborg Castle .

Rosenborg Castle is an absolute gem! Tucked away in the city centre, this Renaissance beauty is brimming with history and charm. It’s like stepping back in time, with royal treasures and the exquisite Danish Crown Jewels on display.

And if that’s not enough, the surrounding King’s Garden is a tranquil haven, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.

Frederiksberg Gardens

Frederiksberg Gardens is my favourite park in Copenhagen and it might even be considered a bit of a hidden gem for most tourists.

This park is located a bit away from Copenhagen’s main attractions, so most tourists don’t consider it, but you can reach it by metro extremely quickly from Nørreport.

This is where locals will chill out in the summertime and where I go for a walk if I need to clear my head and be surrounded by beautiful nature.

Frederiksberg Gardens

So if you’re looking for a free thing to do in Copenhagen and you’ve already been to the main attractions in the city centre, I recommend going to Frederiksberg Gardens.

Kristoffer from Destination Well Known in Copenhagen

Next to the park are a couple of traditional Danish restaurants where you can get smørrebrød and other conventional Danish dishes.

The Tube Copenhagen is a one-of-a-kind attraction within the Copenhagen Central Station, offering an escape into a realm crafted by eight ingenious artists.

As you step into its 17 immersive rooms, prepare to be whisked away on a whimsical journey through time, tales, and a shot at instant stardom.

The Tube is not your typical walk-through exhibit; it’s a playground of disordered perspectives, bewitching illusions, and reflective wonders that challenge the ordinary at every corner. Your senses will dance with delight as each room unfolds a new narrative, urging your imagination to roam free.

So, if you’re keen to flirt with the extraordinary and dip into a world where art meets adventure, The Tube Copenhagen should sit high on your Danish to-do list.

I hope you found my guide on the best things to do in Copenhagen helpful.

If you’ve any questions about my city, please comment below, and I’ll try my best to help you get a great trip to Denmark.

Read all travel blog posts about Copenhagen .

Copenhagen, our lovely capital, has so much to offer! We’re famous for our charming, colourful Nyhavn harbour, with its lively atmosphere and historic townhouses. And who could forget the enchanting Tivoli Gardens , a true fairy tale amusement park in the city’s heart?

We’re also proud of our sustainable living, bike-friendly streets and plenty of green spaces. And don’t even get me started on our fantastic food scene and cosy cafes. Copenhagen has a little of everything, to be honest.

In this guide, I’ve shared some of my favourite things to do and some hidden gems.

This is a good question that depends significantly on what you are for. I love boat tours in the inner harbour and Christianshavn’s Canal. You can see the city from the seaside and see many exciting things you wouldn’t notice when walking around the city.

There are many good, free things to do in our capital. I recommend lacing up a pair of good shoes and walking around the city centre, where you can make your way past Strøget , Christiansborg (you can go up the tower for free), Nyhavn, The Little Mermaid and many other exciting sights. This guide talks about several free things to do in KBH.

Now I live here, and it is best in summer. Winter is dark and cold, but in summer, Copenhagen is one of the best cities in the world.

Oh, you absolutely cannot visit Copenhagen without trying our beloved smørrebrød . These open-faced sandwiches are a Danish classic, made with a slice of dense, dark rye bread topped with various delicious ingredients – my favourite is the roast pork called flæskesteg . Check out my guide to the best smørrebrød in Copenhagen .

Websites I use to book my trips 👇 • Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay • GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation • Omio is my go-to booking platform for trains in Europe • Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?

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Hi Kris! I love reading lists of things to do from locals themselves!

This is such an amazing list and has made me want to go back and explore more!

Thank you so much for sharing your insight to your amazing city!

' src=

Thank you very much for your kind words.

Copenhagen is always a good idea 🇩🇰 😀

' src=

Hi! That was really helpful. Thanks a lot, Kris! It’s a shame that the National Aquarium of Denmark (The Blue Planet) is not included in the Copenhagen Card though 🙂 that would be lovely.

Thanks for the kind words 🙏🏻

Yes, I agree! I think it used to be included, so fingers crossed it will return.

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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Manchester City - Copenhagen: how to watch on TV, stream online | UEFA Champions League

As the uefa champions league continues its journey, football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the clash between manchester city and fc copenhagen..

Andy Restrepo

This upcoming match promises to be a spectacle of skill, determination, and tactical prowess as two formidable teams vie for supremacy on the European stage.

Manchester City, a titan of the English Premier League . Under the astute leadership of manager Pep Guardiola , the Sky Blues have transformed into one of the most dominant forces in world football. For Manchester City, victory would bring them one step closer to their dream of Champions League glory on repeat.

FC Copenhagen , representing the vibrant footballing culture of Denmark , may not have the same global recognition as their counterparts, but they command respect nonetheless. With a history of domestic success and European adventures, the Lions of Denmark have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with.

Watch Man City vs FC Copenhagen live stream on FuboTV (free trial available)

What time does Manchester City - Copenhagen start?

The game between Manchester City - Copenhagen will be played on Wednesday March 6 with kick off at 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT .

How can I watch Manchester City - Copenhagen?

The following channels will be broadcasting the game live in the US: CBS

Follow Manchester City - Copenhagen live with AS USA

You can be sure not to miss a moment of the action by joining our live text commentary right here on AS USA. Build up begins around an hour before kick-off.

Form guide for Manchester City - Copenhagen

Let's have a look at the most recent games for these two teams:

Manchester City 

  • Man United:  W
  • Luton Town:  W
  • Bournemouth:  W
  • Brentford:  W
  • Chelsea:  D
  • Midtjylland:  L  
  • Nordsjaelland:  W
  • Silkeborg:  W
  • Man City:  L
  • Molde:  W

Manchester City - Copenhagen prediction

With both teams hungry for success, expect nothing less than a fiercely contested encounter filled with drama, excitement, and moments of brilliance. Guardiola’s guys should take this one quite comfortably and go through the next round. Man City 2-0 Copenhagen

  • Referee Espen Eskås
  • Stadium Etihad Stadium
  • TV Movistar Liga de Campeones

Manchester City Football Club, MNC

Fc københavn, cpn.

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Watch Champions League Soccer: Livestream Man City vs. FC Copenhagen From Anywhere

The defending champs take a 3-1 lead into this tie at the Etihad Stadium.

copenhagen online travel guide

Manchester City's pursuit of back-to back UEFA Champions League triumphs continues on Wednesday as they host FC Copenhagen in this last-16, second-leg clash. 

Pep Guardiola's men have the cushion of a two-goal advantage heading into this fixture. They claimed a professional 3-1 first-leg victory in Denmark last month, thanks to goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden.

City have a potentially decisive matchup with Liverpool in the English Premier League on Saturday, and Copenhagen will be hoping that their opponents will have one eye on that crucial game as they look to pull off a seemingly unlikely comeback. 

Below, we'll outline the best  live TV streaming services  for watching every game wherever you are in the world.

Phil Foden of Manchester City shouting and pointing with his right hand.

Phil Foden is having his best Champions League campaign so far for City, with four goals and three assists. 

Manchester City vs. FC Copenhagen: When and where? 

Manchester City vs. FC Copenhagen at the Etihad Stadium, on Wednesday, March 6 . Kickoff is set for  8 p.m. GMT local time in the UK, which is 3 p.m. ET or 12 p.m. PT in the US and Canada, and 7 a.m. AEDT on Thursday, March 7, in Australia . 

How to watch Man City vs. FC Copenhagen online from anywhere using a VPN

If you're unable to view Champions League matches locally, you may need a different way to watch the action; that's where using a VPN can come in handy. A VPN can stop your ISP from throttling your speeds on game day by encrypting your traffic, and it's also a great idea if you want an extra layer of privacy for your devices and log-ins while traveling and using various Wi-Fi networks.

With a VPN, you're able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to access the game. If your internet provider or mobile carrier assigns an IP address that incorrectly shows your location in a blackout zone, a VPN can fix that problem by giving you an IP address in your correct, non-blackout area. Most VPNs, like our Editors' Choice, ExpressVPN , make it really easy to do this.

Using a VPN to watch or stream sports is legal in any country where VPNs are legal, including the US, UK and Canada, as long as you have a legitimate subscription to the service you're streaming. Be sure your VPN is set up correctly to prevent leaks: Even where VPNs are legal, the streaming service may terminate the account of anyone it suspects is circumventing correctly applied blackout restrictions.

Looking for other options? Be sure to check out some of the great VPN deals taking place right now.

copenhagen online travel guide

Best VPN for streaming

ExpressVPN is our current best VPN pick for people who want a reliable and safe VPN, and it works on a variety of devices. It's normally $13 a month, and you can sign up for ExpressVPN and save 35% -- the equivalent of $8.32 a month -- if you get an annual subscription. 

Note that ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Livestream Man City vs. FC Copenhagen in the US

American soccer fans can stream this season's tournament via Paramount Plus, which has exclusive live English-language broadcast rights in the US for UEFA Champions League matches.

copenhagen online travel guide

Paramount Plus

Watch the champions league in the us from $6 a month.

Paramount Plus has two main subscription plans in the US: Essential for $6 a month and Premium for $12 a month. Both offer coverage of the Champions League.

The cheaper Essential option has ads for on-demand streaming. It also lacks live CBS feeds and the ability to download shows to watch offline later. Newcomers can take advantage of a 30-day free trial, while students may qualify for a 25% discount. Black Friday savings are also still available, though we don't know how long for.

Read our Paramount Plus review .

Livestream Man City vs. FC Copenhagen in the UK

TNT Sports has Champions League live broadcast rights in the UK. 

copenhagen online travel guide

Watch Champions League games live in the UK with TNT Sports

Formerly BT Sport, TNT Sports is offering Champions League matches exclusively live this season to viewers in the UK. You can access TNT Sports in the same way as its predecessor, including via Sky Q as a TV package, as well as by streaming online. It costs £30 either way and comes in a package that includes Discovery Plus' library of documentary content.

Livestream Man City vs. FC Copenhagen in Canada

If you want to stream UCL games live in Canada, subscribe to DAZN Canada. The service has exclusive broadcast rights to the Champions League this season.

Watch the Champions League in Canada from CA$30 a month

A DAZN subscription costs CA$30 a month or CA$200 a year. It will also give you access to Europa League and EFL Championship soccer, Six Nations rugby and WTA tennis.

As well as dedicated apps for iOS and Android, there's a wide range of support for set-top boxes and smart TVs.

Livestream Man City vs. FC Copenhagen in Australia

Football fans Down Under can watch UCL matches on streaming service Stan Sport, which has exclusive rights to show the Champions League live in Australia this season.

Watch the Champions League in Australia from AU$10 a month

Stan Sport will set you back AU$10 a month (on top of a AU$10 Stan subscription), but the streaming service is currently offering a seven-day free trial.

A subscription will also give you access to Europa League and Europa Conference League action, as well as international rugby and Formula E.

Quick tips for streaming UEFA Champions League matches using a VPN 

  • With four variables at play (your ISP, browser, video streaming provider and VPN), your experience and success when streaming Champions League games may vary.
  • If you don't see your desired location as a default option for ExpressVPN, try using the "search for city or country" option.
  • If you're having trouble getting the game after you've turned on your VPN and set it to the correct viewing area, there are two things you can try for a quick fix. First, log into your streaming service subscription account and make sure the address registered for the account is in the correct viewing area. If not, you may need to change the physical address on file with your account. Second, some smart TVs including Roku don't have VPN apps you can install directly on the device itself. Instead, you'll have to install the VPN on your router or the mobile hotspot you're using (like your phone) so that any device on its Wi-Fi network now appears in the correct viewing location.
  • All of the VPN providers we recommend have helpful instructions on their main sites for quickly installing the VPN on your router. In some cases with smart TV services, after you install a cable network's sports app, you'll be asked to verify a numeric code or click a link sent to your email address on file for your smart TV. This is where having a VPN on your router will also help since both devices will appear to be in the correct location. 
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More From Forbes

How to see the total solar eclipse by train: your ultimate guide to avoiding the traffic chaos.

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Here are five Amtrak trains that will get you into the path of totality on April 8 for North ... [+] America's rare total eclipse of the sun.

The total solar eclipse that will sweep across North America on Monday, April 8, is set to draw crowds from across the continent and beyond. The prize—darkness in the day and a view of the sun’s corona with your naked eyes—is everything, but it’s only open to those inside the 115-mile wide path of totality. You have to be in it to win it.

But with an event this big comes the inevitable traffic congestion—which could be a real headache for those trying to get to and from the path of totality. Another hurdle is that hotels are sold out or hard to come by—particularly on Sunday, April 7.

Night Trains To Totality

One solution that could solve both of those problems is taking the train. It can save money on hotels and eliminate the headache of navigating congested roads. Plus, with night trains, you can travel while you sleep and wake up inside the path of totality.

There are even options with Amtrak to travel between different early cities on eclipse day—alighting at whatever station is predicted to have clear skies.

Here are five ways to travel by train into the path of totality from Chicago, New York, St Louis, as well as a handy service between Cleveland and Buffalo within the path—but act fast if you want tickets:

Millions Of Google WhatsApp Facebook 2FA Security Codes Leak Online

Samsung just gave millions of galaxy users a reason to buy an iphone, facebook and instagram down here s why, 1. on the rails to carbondale (or du quoin).

Journey: Chicago Union Station-Carbondale, Illinois

It is possible to take a train on the 330 miles, five-and-a-half hours journey from Chicago to Carbondale, for a long totality (the college town’s second in less than seven years). You could even get to the Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival , where NASA Edge will be broadcasting from. Not surprisingly, Amtrak tickets are sold out on Monday, April 8 for a day return, so you will need to snag somewhere to stay on Sunday.

However, you could spend Monday evening celebrating the eclipse in Carbondale, then head to the train station at 01:14 a.m. and go straight to work in Chicago on Tuesday. Another option is to alight at Centralia (totality for 2 minutes 46 seconds) or Du Quoin (3 minutes and 52 seconds).

Sunday, April 7

  • Chicago 8:15 a.m./Carbondale 1:45 p.m.
  • Chicago 4:05 p.m./Carbondale 9:35 p.m.
  • Chicago 6:05 p.m./Carbondale 11:21 p.m.

Tuesday, April 8

  • Carbondale 01:14 a.m./Chicago 07:15 a.m.
  • Carbondale 07:30 a.m./Chicago 1:00 p.m.
  • Carbondale 4:15 p.m./Chicago 9:45 p.m.

Eclipse timings for Carbondale

Partial phases: 12:43-3.18 p.m. CDT

Totality: 1:59 CDT (4 minutes and 9 seconds)

The path of totality in Southern Illinois on April 8, 2024.

2. Night Train To Indy

Journey: New York Penn Station-Indianapolis, Indiana

This puts you on a train for 22 hours, but you will wake up in the path of totality, ready to explore one of the many eclipse events in the eclipse capital of the Midwest . The downside is that you’ll need to find somewhere to stay for Monday night before taking the train home just after midnight on Wednesday morning. That’s doable—there will almost certainly be hotel rooms available after the eclipse on Monday as people abandon hotel bookings and decide to brave the traffic.

Sunday, April 7- Monday, April 8

  • New York Penn 6:45 a.m./Indianapolis 5:15 a.m.

Wednesday, April 10

  • Indianapolis 12:14 a.m./New York Penn 10:23 p.m.

Eclipse timings for Indianapolis

Partial phases: 1:50 p.m.-4:35 p.m. EDT

Totality: 3:06 p.m. EDT (3 minutes and 45 seconds)

3. Follow The Tracks To The Adirondacks

Journey: New York PennStation-Plattsburgh, Upstate New York

The Adirondack Coast and Plattsburgh—dead on the centerline—is well organized for this eclipse, with plenty of events planned. Although no overnight journeys are possible from New York, if you can find accommodation in Plattsburgh, there’s no need to drive:

  • New York Penn 8:35 a.m./Plattsburgh 3:54 p.m.

Tuesday, April 9

  • Plattsburgh 2:54 p.m./New York Penn 10:15 p.m.

Eclipse timings for Plattsburgh

Partial phases: 2:14 p.m.-4:37 p.m. EDT

Totality: 3:25 p.m. EDT (3 minutes and 43 seconds)

4. The Gateway To Totality

Journey: St Louis, Missouri-Texarkana, Arkansas

Here are a couple of convenient night trains from St Louis that get you south—where there’s a higher chance of clear skies—and back without having to battle traffic or stay in any hotels. Staying on the train until Texarkana maximizes your sleeping time, but much of the journey cuts straight through—and follows—the path of totality of hundreds of miles.

Between St Louis and Texarkana, you could alight at Arcadia, Poplar Bluff, Walnut Ridge, Little Rock, Malvern, Arkadelphia and Hope because all ate inside the path of totality. Have a handle on where the latest weather forecast and hop off wherever clear skies are most likely.

Sunday, April 7-Monday, April 8

  • St Louis 7:55 p.m./Little Rock 3:02 a.m. /Texarkana 5:50 a.m.

Monday, April 8-Tuesday 9

  • Texarkana 8:43 p.m./Little Rock 11:39 p.m. /St Louis 7:24 a.m.

Eclipse timings for Texarkana

Partial phases: 12:28 p.m. -3:07 p.m. CDT

Totality: 1:46 p.m. CDT (2 minutes and 28 seconds)

Cleveland and Buffalo in the path of totality on April 8, 2024.

5. The Lake Shore Either/Or

Journey: between Cleveland and Buffalo

Lake Erie and Niagara Falls are going to be key eclipse observing locations—and, for the lake in particular, “eclipse cooling” could see convenience clouds dissipate —but reacting to weather could be crucial. Eclipse chasers talk about the “miracle of I-90” that will take traffic between Cleveland and Buffalo/Niagara, depending on the forecast. You can do that by train and dodge all those cars—the wait for a (very) late train back.

Cleveland-Buffalo

Monday, april 8.

  • Depart Cleveland at 5:50 a.m./arrive in Buffalo at 8:53 a.m.
  • Depart Buffalo at 12:39 a.m./arrive in Cleveland at 3:55 a.m.

Eclipse timings for Buffalo

Partial phases: 2:04 p.m.-4:32 p.m. EDT

Totality: 3:18 p.m. EDT (3 minutes and 46 seconds)

Buffalo-Cleveland

Eclipse timings for cleveland.

Partial phases: 1:59 p.m.-4:29 p.m. EDT

Totality: 3:13 p.m. EDT (3 minutes and 50 seconds)

For the latest on all aspects of April 8’s total solar eclipse in North America, check my main feed for new articles each day.

Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

Jamie Carter

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  1. The official guide to Copenhagen

    Your guide to the perfect Copenhagen experience. The buzzing capital of Denmark mixes modern architecture and culture with sustainable living, royal history, and a mouthwatering restaurant scene. Get to know Copenhagen, do your planning, and find all your questions answered right here. To get a daily dose of inspiration, please follow ...

  2. How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Copenhagen

    You can also travel to and from other major European cities, including London, Paris, and Stockholm, aboard Rail Europe trains or buses. A train ride from London to Copenhagen will take almost 15 ...

  3. Copenhagen Travel Guide & Tips

    A comprehensive travel guide and a collection of tips for visiting Copenhagen, Denmark, from the experts at Condé Nast Traveler.

  4. Copenhagen Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    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).

  5. A First Timer's Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

    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.

  6. The Ultimate Copenhagen Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    Copenhagen. Whether you are looking to explore castles, shop until you drop, adventure on two wheels, or eat your way through a city, you'll find it in Copenhagen. Originally a 10th-century Viking fishing village, Copenhagen became the capital of Denmark in the early 15th century and grew to be a political and economic center.

  7. Copenhagen travel

    Vor Frelsers Kirke. Copenhagen. It's hard to miss this 17th-century church and its 95m-high spiral tower. For a soul-stirring city view, make the head-spinning 400-step ascent to the top…

  8. Copenhagen Travel Guide

    Read about itineraries, activities, places to stay and travel essentials and get inspiration from the blog in the best guide to Copenhagen. ... In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice. Buy US$15.99. Buy US$34.99. Buy US$29.99. Buy US$34.99. Buy US$29.99. Buy US$34.99. Buy US$8.99.

  9. Copenhagen Travel Guide

    Fall / Spring. Copenhagen starts coming out of its slumber from late March to May. The temperatures tend to be in the low 40s to high 50s so it won't be warm but it's a comfortable temp for exploring the city. Rain is still common but March and April tend to be some of the least rainy months of the year.

  10. The BEST things to do in Copenhagen

    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).

  11. Copenhagen Travel Guide Tips: Best Things to Do and See

    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.

  12. A First-Timers Travel Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

    Save the Complete Travel Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark to Pinterest. Anjali Chawla. A story-weaver, and a freelance writer, Anjali is a true-blue traveler. She has been published in both online and print media, lending credibility and authority to her work. Her passion for travel and writing inspired her to handcraft this space she calls her ...

  13. Copenhagen Travel Guide: Visit the Amazing Danish Port City

    Climb the corkscrew-shaped church tower, for which, depending on the time of year, you have to pay 35 or 50 Danish kroner (about $6 or $8) per adult and 25 or 40 kroner (roughly $4 or $7) for seniors and students. Also, the Copenhagen Marble Church is a real gem of baroque architecture.

  14. Copenhagen Travel Guide: A Weekend in The World's Coolest City

    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.

  15. 1 Day In Copenhagen: Complete Guide For 2024

    Stop 3: Rosenborg Castle. 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.

  16. Copenhagen Travel Guide: How To Do The Danish City In 3 Days

    The only Copenhagen travel guide you'll need for a 72-hour stay. Menu (Travel) How One Travel Writer Spent Her 3-Day Stay In Copenhagen. It can be done. by Courtney Falsey. Oct. 3, 2022. Nyhavn courtesy of Courtney Falsey. Copenhagen's having a moment. Over the last few years, Denmark's capital has gone from understated European city to ...

  17. Essential Travel Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark

    Add to that the great food you'll find in Copenhagen, like the New Nordic Cuisine movement, and it's a perfect place to travel. Nyhavn. If it hasn't made it on your must-see list yet, our essential travel guide to Copenhagen will change your mind and have you planning a visit to Copenhagen in the near future.

  18. 19 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark

    Art lovers will delight in Copenhagen Contemporary, a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits. And for the adventurous souls: Copenhagen Cable Park offers an opportunity to try water sports ...

  19. Copenhagen Travel Guide

    Charming Copenhagen has its way of capturing hearts. It's the place where old world charm—think cobble stone streets, towers and turrets—meets sleek Scandinavian design. Enjoy the new Nordic ...

  20. Copenhagen Travel Guide

    Everything you need to know about visiting Copenhagen. How to get in from the airport, what attractions to see, what to do, where to avoid and this is the on...

  21. 28 Best Things To Do in Copenhagen + Hidden Gems (2024)

    2. Canal Cruise from Nyhavn (awesome way to see the city and The Little Mermaid) 3. Rent a GoBoat and cruise the harbour (my favourite thing to do in Summer) 4. The Round Tower (free entrance with the Copenhagen Card) 5. Guided Tour to Malmö, Lund and Hamlet's Castle in Elsinore.

  22. Copenhagen Travel Guide: Awesome Hidden Gems by Real Locals

    Copenhagen Travel Guide: Awesome Hidden Gems by Real Locals. Everybody knows their way to the Tivoli Garden and Nyhavn, but where do Copenhagen locals go? Check our online travel guide & download our app for hidden local gems. No algorithms, no fake reviews, and away from the touristic traps. Try Spotted by Locals! It's like having a bunch of ...

  23. Copenhagen: how to watch on TV, stream online

    The game between Manchester City - Copenhagen will be played on Wednesday March 6 with kick off at 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT. How can I watch Manchester City - Copenhagen?

  24. Watch Champions League Soccer: Livestream Man City vs. FC Copenhagen

    Manchester City vs. FC Copenhagen at the Etihad Stadium, on Wednesday, March 6. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. GMT local time in the UK, which is 3 p.m. ET or 12 p.m. PT in the US and Canada, and 7 a.m ...

  25. How To See The Total Solar Eclipse By Train: Your Ultimate Guide To

    Here are five ways to travel by train into the path of totality from Chicago, New York, St Louis, as well as a handy service between Cleveland and Buffalo within the path—but act fast if you ...