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A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide

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

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

Click the links to jump directly to each section

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

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

Before You Go

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

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

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

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

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

The Copenhagen Tourist Map

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

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

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

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

What to Eat in Copenhagen

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

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

Is Copenhagen Expensive?

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

Here are some tips for visiting Copenhagen on a budget:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copenhagen Day Trips

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

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

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

Getting Around Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

Planning a Trip to Denmark – Travel Checklist

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copenhagen Vacation Planning Articles

A First Timer's Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

When Is the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen?

A Neighborhood Guide to Where to Stay in Copenhagen

25 Incredible Things to Do in Copenhagen Before You Die

Denmark for First Timers: A 3 Day Copenhagen Itinerary

Copenhagen Sights, Activities & Tours We Especially Enjoyed:

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

5 Fairy Tale Copenhagen Castles That Will Make Your Jaw Drop

21 Copenhagen Museums that Show the Unique Beauty of Denmark

Denmark Restaurant & Hotel Reviews

Danish Food Guide: 30 of the Best Restaurants in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Darryl! Get on itttt :)

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

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

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

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An Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

What did we love about Copenhagen?

Everything.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning a Trip to Copenhagen: Practical Information

Best time to visit copenhagen.

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

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

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

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

How Many Days to Spend in Copenhagen

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

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

What to Pack for Copenhagen

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

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

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

How to Get to Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting from Copenhagen Airport to the City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ride Sharing Services

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

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

Bicycle Rental

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

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

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

Getting Around Copenhagen

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

Copenhagen on Foot

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

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

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

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

Copenhagen by Bike

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

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

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

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

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

Check out some of the best bike tours in Copenhagen!

Public Transportation in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copenhagen Card

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

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

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

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

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

You might want to install the Copenhagen City Card app .

Buy the Copenhagen Card

Taxi and Ride-Sharing in Copenhagen

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

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

Renting a Car and Parking in Copenhagen

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

But, Danes will make you believe that.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to learn all about Parking in Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

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

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

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

What to See and Do in Copenhagen

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

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

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

Iconic or Famous Places in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Offbeat or Hidden Gems in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and Do Around Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Eat in Copenhagen

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

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

Torvehallerne Food Market

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

Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food Market, Refshaleøen

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

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

Low-Cost Restaurants and Cafes in Nørrebro and Vesterbro

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

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

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

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

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

Hit the Supermarkets

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

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

Tivoli Food Hall

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

Steff-Houlberg

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

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

The best quick meal fix at cheap prices.

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

Meatpacking Weekend Food Market

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

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

Top Food Experiences in Copenhagen

Where to shop in copenhagen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copenhagen Travel Tips 

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

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

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

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A Comprehensive Copenhagen Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

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

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

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

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

A Copenhagen Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

A brief history of copenhagen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Expensive is Copenhagen?

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

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

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

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

When to Visit Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

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

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

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

Some other hotels we looked at:

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

How to Get into Copenhagen

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

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

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

By Train or Bus

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

How to Get Around Copenhagen

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

By Bus/Metro

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

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

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

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

Notable Sightseeing Places in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Little Mermaid Statue

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

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

Tivoli Gardens

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

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

One of the Palaces

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

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

Where to Eat in Copenhagen

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

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

Cafes and Bakeries

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

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

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

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

Hot Dog Stands

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

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

Michelin Restaurants

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

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

Vietnamese Cuisine

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

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

Day Trips from Copenhagen

Fredricksborg.

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

Hamlet’s Castle in Helsingør

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

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

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

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

Malmö, Sweden

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

Shopping in Copenhagen

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

Safety & Health in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

For more Scandinavian travel, read these next:

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

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Visiting Copenhagen, Denmark: What To Know Before You Go

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• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Sightseeing

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital, part of Northern Europe’s Nordic countries and Scandinavian culture.

The name itself, Copenhagen, has an interesting history. The original Danish name for the word meant “merchants’ harbor,” and through German translations, became known as Copenhagen.

Copenhagen is a unique city, characterized by its canals, cycling culture, strong economy, and happy locals. It is actually known as being the happiest city in the world , due to its shorter workdays, free college tuition, more vacation days, and levels of personal interaction.

Beyond being the happiest city in the world, Copenhagen is home to excellent Danish cuisine, a magnificent transportation system, stunning churches and museums, and even a hippie commune that attracts foreign visitors from across the globe.

The following guide will give you the ins and outs of this stunning capital city, with information on weather, what to eat, what to see, how to get around, and where to stay.

Visiting Copenhagen, Denmark – Our Full Guide

Weather in copenhagen, average high/low temperatures by month.

January: 38°/30°F February: 38°/30°F March: 43°/33°F April: 51°/39°F May: 62°/47°F June: 68°/53°F July: 71°/57°F August: 71°/57°F September: 63°/51°F October: 54°/45°F November: 45°/38°F December: 40°/33°F

Months With The Most Rainfall/Snow

June through September and November see averages of 2.4 inches of rain per month. The annual rainfall in Denmark averages 24 inches of precipitation, and Copenhagen has an average of 170 rainy days throughout the year.

Winter in Copenhagen is gloomy with minimal sunshine, and there are sometimes extreme amounts of snow. Despite the capital city’s snowy months from December until early March, the snow usually subsides quickly and seldom lasts very long.

Copenhagen has an oceanic climate, which can vary greatly throughout the year. Beyond the city’s previously mentioned rainy and snowy months, June sees the most sunshine in Copenhagen, with an average of around eight hours of sun per day. On June 21 of this year, Copenhagen will experience it’s annual Summer Solstice, with extended hours of sunshine during this day. July is the warmest month in Copenhagen.

Best Time To Visit

Deciding the best time to visit Copenhagen all depends on the individual traveler’s tastes! June and July are the city’s warmest months, with average high temperatures around 70ºF. Temperatures are ideal during summer months in Copenhagen, a great excuse to hop on a bike and cruise around the city like a true Copenhagener!

If you’re like me and you love Europe’s festive holiday markets, you may want to visit Copenhagen during the winter. It is cold, yes, but the city boasts an array of charming Christmas markets, filled with unique gifts, souvenirs, and, of course, the ever-so-popular mulled wine known as Glogg.

What To Pack

Considering Copenhagen’s constantly changing and unpredictable weather, it would be in a traveler’s best interest to pack both warm and light clothes, depending on when you’re going to visit.

Don’t forget the essentials when packing for a trip to Copenhagen: a warm coat, light jacket, sunglasses, an umbrella, a scarf, hat, gloves, rain boots, and other comfortable walking shoes!

As you can see, there’s a lot of things to know before going to Copenhagen !

Anastasia Pelikh / Shutterstock

Best Things To See In Copenhagen

1. tivoli gardens.

An amusement park and pleasure garden, Tivoli Gardens is situated in central Copenhagen, offering rides, games, musicals, ballet, and major concerts.

Travelers visiting Tivoli Gardens can catch stunning views of the city on the Ferris Wheel, embark on virtual reality adventures, or test-taste various Danish specialities throughout the park’s many food stalls.

2. Little Mermaid Statue

The Little Mermaid statue is unquestionably one of Copenhagen’s biggest tourist attractions, a gift given to the City of Copenhagen from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen in 1938. This bronze and granite sculpture is inspired by Danish author Hans Christian Anderson’s famous fairytales.

3. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is a 400-year-old Renaissance castle built by Christian IV, quickly becoming the former king’s favorite castle and venue for special events. When visiting the castle, guests can gaze upon Christian IV’s possessions, the Danish Crown Jewels, Knights’ Hall, and the Princess’ Chamber.

Nyhavn is one of the most recognizable spots in Copenhagen, with its beautiful, old, colorful houses lined across the former commercial port.

What was once a popular hangout for sailors filled with pubs, alehouses, and ladies of leisure has since been renovated and features an abundance of restaurants with jazz music and a relaxed atmosphere along the canal.

5. Church Of Our Savior

One of Denmark’s most renowned churches, Church of Our Savior was inaugurated in 1752 and has attracted visitors across the globe as a popular pastime to climb the 400 steps to the top. Each year, more than 60,000 people climb the flights of stairs to the top of the church, standing 270 feet above street level.

Rezi Koudelkova / Shutterstock

Best Food To Eat In Copenhagen

1. hot dogs.

Hot dogs are life in Denmark . The nation consumes more pork than anyone in the world, with the average Danish citizen consuming around 142 pounds of pork per year. Linked to this fun fact is the culture of hot dogs in Denmark.

‘Sausage wagons’ abound in Copenhagen, and a trip to this unique capital city wouldn’t be complete without taste-testing a proper Danish hot dog, topped with crispy fried onions, pickles, and creamy remoulade.

Rugbrød is a very common form of rye bread in Denmark, resembling a long brown and expelled rectangle. This popular Danish bread is commonly slathered with cured or pickled fish, meat, pâté, or pickled vegetables, and is usually served for lunch.

3. Smørrebrød

Similar to rugbrød, smørrebrød normally consists of a piece of buttered rye bread, topped with homemade cold cuts, fish, meat, cheese, and garnishes. Smørrebrød is the ultimate Danish sandwich.

4. Stegt Flæsk

Consisting of fried pork belly and served with potatoes, a white sauce, and chopped parsley, stegt flæsk could be translated literally to “crisp fried pork strips” and is the national dish of Denmark. Needless to say, you shouldn’t leave Copenhagen without trying stegt flæsk.

5. Risalamande

Typically served at Christmas, risalamande is a traditional Danish dessert, made out of rice pudding and mixed with whipped cream, vanilla, and chopped almonds.

6. Danish pastries

If you’re traveling around Copenhagen and want a quick bite to eat, either for breakfast or in between tourist attractions, hop into any bakery that smells good and grab yourself a Danish pastry.

Traditional Danish pastries are multi-layered and made with sweetened yeast dough, usually topped with fillings such as fruit, nuts, or cheese.

Ingus Kruklitis / Shutterstock

Best Kept Secret In Copenhagen

Freetown christiania.

Tucked away in the borough of Copenhagen’s Christianshavn neighborhood lies Freetown Christiania , an intentional community and commune of around 850 to 1,000 residents.

This hidden gem and alternative neighborhood in Copenhagen is home to various concert venues and halls, bars, organic and vegetarian eateries, workshops, art galleries, and beautiful nature. It’s also home to Christiania Smedie, the oldest business in all of Freetown Christiania.

Christiania Smedie was a blacksmith that originally opened in the ’70s. Primarily producing furnaces in its early years, Christiania Smedie then shifted its focus to creating crate bikes for the car-free community of Christiania.

Another big draw to this hippie commune is its Green Light District. There were once several stalls along Pusher Street where visitors could purchase an array of cannabis products. But today, locals have tried to halt the buying and selling of marijuana in Christiania, due to conflicts surrounding drugs in the area, though remnants of this culture are still prevalent.

Regardless of the reason you wish to visit Christiania, a stop at this quaint hippie district will be worth your while.

lkoimages / Shutterstock

Other Things To Do In Copenhagen

Take a canal cruise.

Copenhagen boasts some very charming canals that are adorned with sailboats and vividly-colored buildings. Nyhavn is the most popular canal, but there are also lesser-known, picturesque areas like Christianshavn.

Cooking Classes And Food Tours

Danish cuisine is some of the best in the world, and Copenhagen offers an array of cooking classes and food tours, an essential outing for foodie travelers!

CPH Good Food invites guests to eat their way through Nordic food and traditions while highlighting unique ingredients and simple techniques of Nordic cuisine.

COH Good Food offers three different courses: Nordic Cuisine for the Home Cook , Nordic Baking, and Nordic Terroir. Courses run throughout the weekdays and cost between $230-$307 USD (1500-2000 DKK).

Copenhagen Food Tour is another great way to indulge in Danish cuisine, a unique opportunity to experience authentic Copenhagen through delicious food, all while listening to fascinating stories about the city’s history.

One of the most defining characteristics of Denmark as a whole is its cycling culture, similar to that of the Netherlands.

Among a lot of things to do in Copenhagen , renting a bike and riding around the city is a must, and a trip to the Danish capital wouldn’t really be complete without doing so. You’ll feel like a local, and it’s a great way to see all of the city’s main tourist attractions while saving time on wheels!

Pro Tip: Copenhagen’s bike lanes are often nestled between the sidewalk and the road so make sure not to step out into the bike lane without looking. It’s like stepping out into the road without looking.

Iryna Kalamurza / Shutterstock

Best Areas To Stay In Copenhagen

1. indre by (old city).

Known as the inner city, Indre By is Copenhagen’s oldest neighborhood, filled with pleasant walking streets, and a handful of the city’s most famous museums and churches. This area offers some of the best hotels in the capital city.

2. Nyhavn (New Harbor)

A neighborhood as well as a canal, Nyhavn is situated within Indre By and is one of the trendiest places in the city. If you’re coming to Copenhagen to taste some exquisite Danish cuisine, you’ll want to stay in this neighborhood. Nyhavn is home to the city’s restaurant culture, with the main street being lined with endless top-notch restaurants.

3. Christianshavn

Christianshavn is a picturesque small village right in the center of the city, an eclectic area with 16th century houses, old brick lanes, and quaint canals. Residing in Christianshavn in Copenhagen will also be your ticket in the door to visiting Christiania.

4. Frederiksberg

Known as Copenhagen’s beautiful theater district, Frederiksberg is a municipality in itself, consisting of several world-class theaters. It is known amongst locals as the Beverly Hills of Copenhagen.

Getting Around Copenhagen

While you can see a lot of Copenhagen on foot, the city offers some superb public transportation, including a metro, trains, and buses. All of these modes of transportation can be accessed using the same card known as the CityPass , which covers the trip to and from the airport to Copenhagen , and allows travel through the rest of the Greater Copenhagen area . With the CityPass, travelers can enjoy unlimited travel on buses, trains, and the metro.

The metro in Copenhagen runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During rush hour, there are 2-4 minutes between trains; outside of rush hour, trains stop every 3-6 minutes. After midnight, trains run less frequently.

The S-Trains in Copenhagen run between 5:00 a.m. and half past midnight, with Line F running every 4-5 minutes, and Lines A, B, C, and E running every 10 minutes.

S-F / Shutterstock

Key Danish Phrases

When traveling to Copenhagen, don’t be afraid to fully immerse yourself in the culture and test out your Danish speaking skills! Even if you feel like you’re butchering it, locals from any country usually appreciate foreigners making an effort. When traveling abroad, a little effort can go a long way.

While Danes typically have a very high level of English, learning and practicing the following important words and phrases could potentially make your trip to Copenhagen a little easier. Even if you don’t attempt to speak the language while you’re there, at least recognizing these phrases in conversation could help you find where the bathroom is, or know how much something costs.

The following vital Danish phrases are sure to help you during your trip to Copenhagen.

Hello: Hej Good morning: God morgen Goodbye: Farvel Please: Hvis du vil være så venlig at Thank you: Mange tak Yes: Ja No: Nej You’re welcome: Selv tak Excuse me: Undskyld How much?: Hvad koster det? Bathroom: Toilet (herrer)= Men’s; toilet (damer)= Women’s Do you speak English?: Taler du engelsk? I don’t speak Danish: Jeg taler ikke dansk

If you’re worried about the pronunciation of some of these phrases, check out Useful Danish Words and Phrases for help with pronunciation.

Things To Know About Danish Culture

1. mind your manners.

The Danes are incredibly particular about manners and politeness, so make sure you’re on your best behavior in Copenhagen!

2. The Art Of (Not) Saying ‘Thank You’

Despite the truth that Danes are incredibly polite, don’t expect many ‘thank you’s’ when visiting Copenhagen.

In the Danish language, the words for ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ are simply redundant, thus Danes will rarely say these words in conversation due to their already constant politeness.

3. Privacy, Privacy, Privacy

It is well known that Danes are very private people, and really getting to know Copenhageners might be difficult during your travels. It’s not because locals don’t want to talk to foreigners, they just live with the notion that everyone is busy and has their own lives, and they don’t want to interrupt, bother, or disturb anyone.

4. Superficiality

Danes have a problem with superficiality, and you won’t find anyone being ‘fake nice’ in Denmark or Copenhagen. It’s one of the reasons they find the question “How are you?” so amusing. To people from Denmark, saying “how are you” is blatantly superficial, for most people don’t actually mind or listen to how a person responds to the question.

5. Punctuality

Like many Scandinavian countries, punctuality is key. Relating to the ways in which Danes are overtly polite and well-mannered, being punctual is just another layer to that!

6. Outspokenness

Danes are known for being outspoken, which can oftentimes come off as rude. Try not to take offense to any locals “telling it like it is” and understand that openly expressing yourself and your opinions is simply part of Danish culture.

7. ‘Hygge”: Learn It, love It

You may hear the term ‘hygge’ while traveling through Copenhagen and wonder what that means.

Hygge is a Danish term that doesn’t necessarily have a direct translation or meaning, but more broadly refers to the country’s most prototypical social commodity of being in a state of comfort, relaxation, and peace with the ones around you, usually while out eating and drinking.

8. Mind Your Looks

Many Danes are known for their propriety which is demonstrated in almost every aspect of their culture. While your attire can be casual, ensure your clothes are tidy and clean. Copenhageners dress stylishly yet practically, favoring comfortable attire like jeans and sneakers for daily wear. If you’re dining out, jeans are generally not acceptable.

In professional settings, business casual is standard, often showcasing minimalist, well-tailored outfits.

Special occasions call for fashionable attire, blending Scandinavian simplicity with contemporary trends. Copenhagen’s cycling culture influences clothing choices, with an emphasis on practical yet stylish outfits suitable for city biking.

More To Read

If you’re itching to learn more about Copenhagen before embarking on your Danish adventure, the following articles, travel guides, and books will allow you to dive head first–not only into some useful information for traveling to this remarkable capital city–but also on renowned literature that will provide some insight into Danish and Copenhagen culture.

Helpful Articles About Copenhagen Travel

1. Travel + Leisure : Copenhagen Travel Guide

2. The Telegraph : Destinations Copenhagen

3. NY Times : 36 Hours in Copenhagen

4. Lonely Planet : Copenhagen Travel Tips & Articles

Copenhagen Travel Guides

Here is a list of some of the best travel guides for Copenhagen (with Amazon links!):

1. Lonely Planet Pocket Copenhagen (Travel Guide)

2. Frommer’s Copenhagen day by day

3. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Denmark

4. Copenhagen: The Monocle Travel Guide Series

5. Top 10 Copenhagen (Eye Witness Top Ten Travel Guide)

6. Rick Steves Snapshot Copenhagen & the Best of Denmark

Recommended Literature

For some outstanding fictional reading material, both about Copenhagen and by famous Danish authors, be sure to read:

1. Miss Smilla’s Feeling for Snow : Written in 1992 by Danish author Peter Høeg

2. Kerrigan in Copenhagen : A literary bar-hopping novel unveiling the cultural history of Copenhagen

3. Sharpe’s Prey : Set in 1807 during the Napoleonic Wars, a lieutenant is sent to Copenhagen to protect a nobleman on a secret mission.

4. The Danish Girl : A fictionalized account of the life of Lili Elbe, one of the earliest recipients of sex reassignment surgery

Why Visit Copenhagen?

You can enjoy Copenhagen’s unique atmosphere, rich culture, 20+ restaurants with Michelin stars, colorful buildings, and numerous landmarks. Visiting Copenhagen must be at the top of your list if you are considering traveling to Scandinavia.

What Is the Best Way to Explore Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is best explored on two wheels. Other alternatives include public transportation or a free walking tour. Buy a Copenhagen Card and you will save money by getting free rides on public transportation and free admission to more than 80 attractions.

When to Visit Copenhagen?

The peak summer months are best to visit Copenhagen if you want any chance of clear blue skies. Christmastime is the fairytale season in Copenhagen but also very busy.  Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit if you want fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation.

What Are Copenhagen’s Top Attractions?

Copenhagen’s most significant tourist attractions are Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, the Round Tower, the Amalienborg, and the Christiansborg Palaces. Visit Rosenborg Castle, Frederik’s Church, Copenhagen’s many museums, and the world’s most famous restaurants.

How to Get to Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is best reached by flying into Copenhagen Airport. The metro is the cheapest way to get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center in less than 15 minutes. To get to the city center you can use any form of public transportation or a taxi, which isn’t cheap.

Alexandra was first bitten by the travel bug when she studied abroad in Seville, Spain, in 2013. Since then, she graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor of arts in journalism and a double minor in Spanish and music. After graduation, she taught English abroad for four years in Spain and Thailand. Besides being a contributing writer for TravelAwaits, Alexandra has turned her passion for travel into a career as an expedition manager at National Geographic Expeditions, overseeing trips throughout Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Copenhagen Airport Guide

Getting Around Copenhagen

What to Pack

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Copenhagen

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Best Breweries

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Copenhagen: The Complete Guide

Ashley Niedringhaus is an ASME-nominated journalist and author who specializes in crafting bespoke city guides, including a comprehensive guide to Copenhagen for TripSavvy.

Regularly ranked among the happiest places globally, Copenhagen is a delight for visitors and residents alike. The compact city of 1.3 million  , which plans to be carbon-neutral by 2025 , is easy to navigate on bike or foot, historic castles sit in lush urban parks, clean power plants double as urban playgrounds world-class modern art fills the galleries of museums around the city. Like the whirl of the roller coasters at Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen's vibrant food and wine scenes are fast-moving, and each month brings a new opening from a famed chef or another intimate wine bar with an impressive list of biodynamic bottles. Spend time working up an appetite for the city's phenomenal food scene by flitting between dips in the pristinely clean harbor, biking around royal grounds, or shopping for the perennially cool Danish design.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : While almost every month of the year has its own appeal, the best time to visit Copenhagen is May through September. One of Copenhagen's most appealing parts is that even during the peak months of July and August, the city never feels swarmed with people but full of life and vibrant.

Language : Danish. There are helpful words to know, but Danes, especially those in Copenhagen, speak near-perfect English.

Currency: Danish kroner. Approximately six Danish kroner equals $1. Copenhagen is almost entirely cashless.

Getting Around: Biking is, by far, the most common way to get around the flat streets of Copenhagen. Download a bike-share app or rent a bike from your hotel. The driverless, eco-friendly Metro, busses, and water busses cover most of the city. Cabs are available but are crazy-expensive.

Travel Tip: If you have data, pre-load your phone with a few key apps, like Donkey Republic for quick bike rentals and Mobilbilletter for buying tickets for public transportation. 

Things to Do 

Copenhagen's museums cover everything from ancient Vikings to Andy Warhol and are a draw for many visitors, as is Walt Disney's muse, Tivoli Gardens. Shopping trips, canal tours, and lunches around town fill the days while top tables, excellent cocktails, and live music occupy the nights. 

• It's worth getting under the skin of the city a bit with a great guided tour. Hyper-local experiences, like a food tour, are worthy of your time, not to mention a delicious way to discover the city's vibrant culinary scene.
• Even if you're visiting in winter , finding a way to see Copenhagen by water is a quintessential Copenhagen experience. Go for a winter swim, relax in the long summer sun, rent a kayak, or join a guided boat tour with a laid-back local.
• Discover why locals love Copenhagen so much and rent a bike, choosing to stop at lush parks, by the canal for people watching, or zip out to the industrial Refshalevej neighborhood for street food and a Mikkeller beer.

To help make the most of your trip to Copenhagen, we have a full guide covering the top museums , dishes to try , and the best bars in town .

What to Eat and Drink

A decade ago, Copenhagen's food scene was nothing compared to today's, and menus were loaded with herring and traditional dishes. While the pickled fish is still present today, it's presented in cool and innovative ways. But there's also great Mexican, pizza, delicious pastries, ramen, and some of Scandinavia's best burgers. Yes, everything seems to have roots in Noma, Northern Europe's most famous restaurant. Still, a host of 30-something chefs are shaking up the scene and appealing to a new crop of visitors looking to see what Copenhagen is cooking up next.

When it comes to liquor, cheap, local lagers, like Carlsberg, are the favorite of students in the park and sunbathers enjoying the city's generous open container laws. But it doesn't take long to realize that Copenhagen isn't a budget or backpacker town, and everything else is pretty pricy. But try and ignore the $20 cocktail price tag for at least one night to check out some of the craft cocktail bars, like Ruby and Balderdash. Like their foodie counterparts, the cocktail makers take their craft very seriously and source the ingredients, like small-batch liquors and seasonal juices, to make a great cocktail.

You can't leave town without trying one of the city's natural wine bars. Sure, the wine's vocabulary is like a secret language, and the bold colors and cloudy liquid can be confusing. Still, passionate wine merchants, like Rødder & Vin and Rosforth & Rosforth, make discovering a great bio bottle a real treat.

Discover some of the best restaurants and bars in town , as well as great local dishes you can't miss.

Where to Stay 

The beauty of Copenhagen's small footprint is that you can't go too wrong when picking a place to stay. The city center and the area around Nyhavn's colorful houses are filled with hotels, but the price is reflective of the prime locations or the hotel's design-savvy interior. A lot of visitors are shocked to see that $300 (or more!) only gets them a small room with two twin beds pushed together. Another hotel bummer: There are few international chains, making finding a room on reward points a chore.

But don't worry too much: There's a substantial AirBnB market in town, and it's a good way to get more space for your buck, and many are outfitted with top Danish furniture brands. Look at neighborhoods just outside of the city center, like Frederiksberg or Nørrebro. They're packed with local charm, great pastry spots, and local fashion shops.

The flat city makes it easy to bike around, and the 24-hour Metro makes it easy to go further afield without feeling like you're committing to a daily commute.

Before deciding, pick up some safety tips , and see our picks for top hotels.

Getting There 

It's easier than ever to get a direct flight from the U.S. to Copenhagen, especially on Star Alliance member Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). All flights, including European budget airlines and international carriers, arrive at Copenhagen Airport (CPH) . Even with luggage and jet lag, it's easy to get from the airport to the city on the Metro, which connects to the airport and leaves every few minutes. There are plenty of cabs, but they're expensive.

Culture and Customs 

The Danes are polite and value arriving on time (seriously, don't be late for dinner reservations!), but they are not overly warm to people outside of their tight-knit groups of friends. Everyone in Denmark is considered equal, making working in Denmark a challenge for Americans, and men and women share household and children-related duties.

Unless you're at a five-star restaurant, expect to flag down a member of the waitstaff at least once, and they almost certainly won't stop by to make sure you're enjoying your meal. If you'd like another glass of wine or to order something else, don't be shy. Tipping is not expected.

Danish people value practical dressing over high fashion and couture, and sensible footwear and biking-friendly clothing is the top choice of most.

Money-Saving Tips 

• 7-Elevens across town are great for healthy, inexpensive meals and snacks. Pick up a quinoa wrap, kale salad, hot dog, or cold-pressed juice while you're out.
• The Danes have a healthy appetite. Many restaurants have menus filled with small plates, and a waiter might suggest six to eight a person. This can often result in a lot of food and a hefty bill. Start with three or four dishes, and remember you can always order more.
• Many of the museums in the city have free entrance once a week. Otherwise, consider buying the Copenhagen Card for a day or more. The card includes unlimited public transportation and provides access to museums, the city's zoo, Tivoli Gardens, castles, and the Carlsberg Brewery.
• Copenhagen is incredibly walkable, so bring comfortable shoes and save money by not taking taxi cabs.
• For even more money-saving tips, check out the best free things to do in Copenhagen .

World Population Review. "Copenhagen Population 2020."

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The Ultimate Literary Guide to Copenhagen

By: Author Willow Heath

Posted on Last updated: 19th April 2024

Denmark is a proudly bookish nation. Perhaps the true source of happiness for this happiest country on Earth is that it’s bursting at the seams with literary charm.

When you do visit the overwhelmingly bookish Copenhagen, you’ll find a slew of delightful indie bookstores, book cafes to lose an afternoon relaxing in, and fairytales come to life around every corner. To find it all, follow our bookish guide to Copenhagen.

There are even day-trips to Hamlet’s castle and the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen if you want to leave the city.

Seriously, Copenhagen may very well be the ultimate book lover’s fantasy city, and for that reason, it has fast become one of our favourite cities on Earth (a list that gets longer all the time). If you’re a lover of literature, fairytales, and Shakespeare come check out what Copenhagen has to offer!

Hunt for Hans Christian Andersen

Denmark’s most famous writer is also the man who brought the Western world many of its best fairytales , still read, adapted, and deeply loved to this day. Though he was born in Odense, he spent much of his adult life as a writer in Copenhagen. And it’s here you can find so much of his legacy! We love this Hans C Andersen walking tour of Copenhagen.

Read More: Explore literary Odense for more Andersen

Hans Christian Andersen Fairytale House

Located right opposite the inner-city wonderland of Tivoli , the Fairytale House is an awesome interactive exhibit that documents Andersen’s childhood in Odense, his life in Copenhagen, and the journeys he took which inspired his creations.

You’ll also see your favourite fairytale characters come to life (in a far less Disney style than we’re used to). It’s a perfect place for children of all ages to visit! Also just outside the Fairytale House and overlooking Tivoli theme park is a detailed and epic statue of Andersen himself sitting proudly. The most photogenic man in Copenhagen, for sure!

Tip : You can also stay in the Andersen Boutique Hotel in Vesterbro (near central station) to carry on the theme!

Read More: Here are some great books to read before visiting Denmark

Tivoli Gardens

You’re going to want to explore Tivoli when you visit Copenhagen, Andersen or no Andersen. But when you do, just know that it comes Andersen-approved! He visited this vintage theme park himself the day it opened, and had a deep love for it. So much so, in fact, that Tivoli itself inspired him to write his fairytale The Nightingale .

Also make sure, when you visit, to ride The Flying Trunk, a ride that brings many of Andersen’s fairytales to life all around you!

Andersen’s Nyhavn

Nyhavn (or New Haven) is the most photographed place in Copenhagen. A row of picturesque houses of all different bright colours which lead to a pier at the eastern edge of the city centre. Today it has a bridge covered in love-locks and a huge selection of fantastic (albeit pricey) Danish restaurants and cafes. You can take a boat down the canal or just watch the world go by at this picturesque spot.

For Andersen fans, he also spent most of his life living here. Andersen wrote one of his most famous stories The Princess and the Pea while living in no. 20 Nyhavn. He also lived for twenty years in no. 67 Nyhavn, which today exists as the H.C. Andersen Cafe , where you can enjoy some traditional Danish lunch and soak up the electric atmosphere of Nyhavn.

Tip: If you’d like to be based in this enchanting area, try 71 Nyhavn Hotel — it’s right on the waterfront.

Read More: Where to Stay in Copenhagen (Hotels and Neighbourhood Guide)

Assistens Cemetery

Next, take the metro to Carlsberg station and turn south. There you’ll find the peaceful Assistens Cemetry which is home to the graves of Denmark’s most beloved writer, Hans Christian Andersen, and its most accomplished and famous philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard.

Nearby the station there’s a whole street of things to do and eat plus you’ll eventually end up at Thiemers Magasin bookshop . On the way pop into So Last Year for second-hand and vintage items (including books) and coffee and Brooklyn Charm for making your own jewellery souvenirs.

The Little Mermaid

Overlooking the water just beside the old military fortress of Kastellet is the iconic statue of Andersen’s Little Mermaid. It’s a great photo spot but, be warned, the statue is – as many people often say after they’ve seen it themselves – very small and a little underwhelming but should you take the time to see it, absolutely.

The Bookish Cafes and Bars of Copenhagen

A mix between a cafe and bookstore, Tranquebar is run by a former librarian who ventured into the travel industry before coming back to books. The books mainly travel literature but you’ll find some other gems there too. Writers and poets often hold lecture sand talks and they occasionally have small concerts.

The cafe itself is just perfect, a place to retreat for a few hours with a book or some work complete with cosy chairs, a light menu and genuinely great coffee.

Pauldan Bog & Cafe

This utterly delightful place is a spacious eatery that serves fantastic European meals and fresh coffee. Every wall is a bookcase lined with gorgeous old tomes, leather-bound and beautiful. The stairs creak and the smell of books mix with that of coffee to create a perfect haven for book-lovers.

The bookshop downstairs is a treasure trove mix of English and Danish books begging to be explored. Pauldan Bog & Cafe was our very first stop when we arrived in Copenhagen and it didn’t disappoint.

The Library Bar

Although it’s found in the Copenhagen Plaza Hotel , this most bookish Copenhagen bar is open for anyone to enjoy.

If you’re a book-lover who has always fantasised about having that perfect library in your house — complete with leather wing-backed chairs, a big globe, garish Victorian portraits of anonymous nobles, bookshelves from floor to ceiling lining every wall, and vintage scientific gadgets like brass telescopes and maybe a human skull — this is that fantasy. The Library Bar also serves cocktails named after famous writers like Shakespeare and Dickens.

The Indie Bookshops of Copenhagen

Here’s the bookshop that most stole Books and Bao’s heart. A shop that sells exclusively English books in translation from every corner of the world. Their mission is to introduce readers to lesser-known books and writers from all over the surface of our beautiful planet.

For people with the same exact goal, visiting Ark Books is the kind of venture that makes us break down and sob happy tears.

Politkens Boghal

Found in the heart of the city, this is Copenhagen’s biggest bookseller with a huge range of English books. They also stock the most interesting literature from around the world, we were discovering new authors by the second! The store itself was set up by Politiken, a left-leaning broadsheet newspaper that’s existed in Denmark for over a hundred years.

Books and Company

This is where you go if you’re staying in Copenhagen, you’re looking for a new release in English, and you want to meet some good bookish people. Books and Company are dedicated to the craft of writing and the joys of reading. They offer events that include author talks, and they have their own book club that you’re welcome to join! The store is beautifully decorated and is a must-visit for book-lovers visiting Copenhagen.

Thiemers Magasin

This is your quintessential indie bookshop. A delightful store, beautifully painted in blue with a quirky and inviting font displaying itself proudly on a quiet Copenhagen street. It’s a tiny nook of a shop, bright and cheery, selling a mix of Danish and English books. They also hold their own reading club and book receptions!

Cinnober proudly calls itself a bookshop and gallery, and when you go its easy to see why. The shop is owned by a pair of graphic designers who have used their skill and crafts to design a gorgeous shop with a white, sun-lit and minimalist design.

All of the books they choose to stock match the store’s lovely aesthetic and they also sell crafts and stationery supplies in keeping with their illustrative style.

Copenhagen’s LiteraturHaus

“In an abandoned church in Nørrebro, there is an assembly house that loves literature.” This LiteraturHus is a megaphone that spreads the word about the powers of literature across Copenhagen. Walk inside and you’ll find almost daily events, all based around the love of books as a rich and beautiful art form.

They host lectures, book receptions on newly-launched books,  and even concerts and festivals! If someone wants to put on an underground concert, host an interesting lecture, or celebrate anything bookish, LiteraturHaus will host and celebrate it. If you wanted to see just how bookish Copenhagen truly is, look no further!

Church of Our Saviour

There are two reasons to visit this badass-looking church. The first is that it’s, well, badass. The tower is a tapering spiral that reaches for the sky, and the stairs that take you to the top — painted in royal gold — are on the outside. It’s certainly one of the more unique experiences in Copenhagen.

The other reason is that this is the same tower mentioned in Jule’s Verne’s early sci-fi masterpiece (and my own favourite Verne story),  Journey to the Centre of the Earth .

The Royal Library (Black Diamond)

As the name suggests, this hulking Goliath of a building looks like a huge diamond-shaped chunk of obsidian. It’s a sight to behold, and an example of real eye-catching modern architecture. Inside The Royal Library , you’ll find one of the grandest, beautiful, and exquisite libraries in Scandinavia.

From the inside, the huge multi-storey glass walls overlook the waterfront, and as you explore you’ll find an incredible blend of modern architecture and traditional library aesthetics. The library holds original the manuscripts of both Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard.

Take a Bookish Denmark Day-Trip

Denmark is a relatively small country, and there are three fantastic day-trips that you can do from bookish Copenhagen as a book-lover, one of which involves visiting an entirely different country!

Read More: Magical Daytrips from Copenhagen

Kronborg Castle

Just a little ways (20 miles) up the road from Copenhagen, you’ll find Kronborg Castle. Just follow the coast until you reach the end.

This fairytale come to life was built in 1420 by King Eric of Pomerania and was then the home of the royal family for about two hundred years. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a great day-trip for its history and beauty alone, but for us bookish types it’s also an unmissable experience.

Kronborg Castle is the home of Shakespeare’s most beloved mad prince: Hamlet. Though Hamlet never really existed, this is the castle that Shakespeare chose as the home of Hamlet.

As such, there is a carving of Shakespeare you can find in the castle; the gift-shop is overflowing with Shakespeare-related goodies; and you can see for yourself how Hamlet would have lived as the prince of Denmark. For more info on Kronborg Castle, check out our day-trip itinerary (complete with video).

If you’d rather an easy tour to Kronborg and Frederikborg then we love this one .

Denmark’s third-largest city of Odense is capital of the island of Funen. It’s also the home of Denmark’s beloved fairytale father: Hans Christian Andersen. You can take a train straight to Odense from Copenhagen that only takes ninety minutes each way, making for an ideal day-trip! Once there, you can visit The Andersen Museum dedicated to his legacy, his birthplace and his childhood home.

You can go on an Easter egg hunt for all of the stunning fairytale statues dotted across the city as a tribute to the man and his wonderful imagination. Don’t leave without visiting the outstanding Brandts Museum , it was one of our favourite visits this whole trip! If you’d like to stay overnight try Milling Hotel Plaza , it’s gorgeous! Read More about our amazing day trip to Odense here .

Read More : Copenhagen’s Incredible Tattoo Studios

Malmö, Sweden

Beyond bookish Copenhagen, you can also explore bookish Sweden! Malmö is a peaceful, idyllic Swedish city that sits at the nation’s southern tip, an hour’s bus ride from Copenhagen (over the coolest bridge you’ll ever cross!) Getting there cheap and easy, and totally doable in a single day. For book-lovers, there are two delightful things to do: visit the library and go shopping at the SF-Bokhandeln.

The library is a beautiful, charming building that blends a kind of post-renaissance gothic style with a hyper-modern interior to make for a very unique library experience.

And the SF-Bokhandeln is a fantastic sci-fi bookstore that stocks a heavy amount of fantastic sci-fi and fantasy books in English and Swedish (as well as nerdy merchandise, board games , and toys). We took the trip to Malmö ourselves and stayed the night at Story Hotel — check out what we got up to .

For an easy tour to Malmö and nearby Lund then we recommend this tour .

Fancy eating at one of Copenhagen’s delightful food halls? Check out this guide to Torvehallerne taking you through everything from coffee, to porridge, and spice and tea shops.

Wow, what an adventure! We loved Odense, they’ve got a lot of roadworks and things right now though so maybe waiting a while will pay off anyway 🙂 I’d definitely recommend the Brandts Museum when you manage to visit too. I’d love to explore more of Sweden, such a beautiful country.

I loved this great article. Beautiful photos and now I really want to go to Odense. I live in Sweden but haven’t been to Skåne. Currently on my way to the Arctic, Luleå.

How to Visit Copenhagen Like a True Dane

Written By: Josepine Remo

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Copenhagen is a vibrant city that is becoming a popular travel destination and for good reason. The city has a number of amazing things to offer and provides any traveler with a ton of entertainment choices.  Cobbled streets with colorful houses, beautiful outdoor areas, an amazing food scene, great bars , and so much more, are exactly what makes Copenhagen such a great and unmissable city to visit. 

Copenhagen has been my home for ten years and I love the city. Therefore, I’d go as far as to call myself an expert on how to enjoy my amazing hometown. So get ready to learn how to visit Copenhagen like a local.

Table of Contents

Visit Copenhagen Like a Dane

One thing you should know about Copenhagen is that it’s small and doesn’t overwhelm travelers. What really makes Copenhagen so unique is the atmosphere, the people, and the freedom that oozes through the city. And to experience how amazing the city is, you have to visit Copenhagen like a true Dane. 

If Copenhagen is an upcoming travel destination for you, or you simply need inspiration for your bucket list, then keep reading below. I will share exactly where to stay , what to do, and where to visit so you get the full local experience. 

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Many people come to Copenhagen and aim to stay in the very center of the city. First, the center of Copenhagen is great for some things but is both touristy and overpriced. Second, it is loud as the area is full of tourists and shoppers during the day, and party crowds at night. Lastly, Danes don’t live in the center of the city, they seek out other areas that provide more culture, calmness, and a better ambiance. 

Danes love interior design and pour much love into their homes. Most of the year is so cold and dark that Danes need their homes to be inviting and comfortable. Airbnb’s are both widely spread across areas of the city and at different price ranges. You won’t experience better Danish culture than staying in one of their homes. 

Look for an Airbnb, or hotel options if you prefer, in one of the following areas:

Nørrebro.

Many years ago the area was mainly occupied by a large immigration population and is still the colorful ethnic epicenter of the city. Today, Nørrebro is a very popular student area, and the place is full of Danes at all hours of the day. 

Nørrebro provides great shopping options, cafes, and bars, and is within walking distance of many places that you will want to visit while in town. 

Search for hotels in Nørrebro on TripAdvisor

Things to do in Nørrebro

• Visit Assistent Kirkegården where famous writers and poets like Hans Christian Andersen rests. 
• Go shopping in the colorful streets of Elmegade and Jægersborggade.
• Enjoy an evening in Ravnsborggade, Blågårdsgade, and Rantzausgade. 
• Eat the best Kebabs in the city. Liban Cuisine and Ahaaa Den Arabisk Madhus are local favourites. See a full list here.
• Visit “The Red Square” and “The Black Square”.
• Take a multi cultural walking tour of Nørrebro. 
• Admire the colorful street art and the unique climbing wall at Banana Park .
• Book this multicultural tour of Nørrebro by bicycle to explore one of the hippest neighborhoods in Copenhagen.

Vesterbro is the hippest area of the city and is the home of both families, young people, and everything in between. Many people claim that true locals live in the Vesterbro area. Heck, they even dress a specific way and stand out in a crowd. 

Vesterbro is home to the famous Meatpacking District, some of the best coffee places in the city, and some of the best restaurants in town. 

• Visit the beautiful Tivoli Gardens, the oldest amusement park in the world. 
• Experience the ever-pulsing Meatpacking District. 
• Go shopping in Istedgade and Værnedamsvej.
• See the famous astrologi exhibition at Tycho Brahe Planetarium . 
• Experience The City of Carlsberg and the famous Elephant Gate. 
• Watch a concert at the hippest venue in town, VEGA .

Search for hotels in Vesterbro on TripAdvisor

Frederiksberg

Frederiksberg is an interesting area of Copenhagen that even has its own commune. Not only is Frederiksberg a very nice area full of locals and beautiful streets, but it’s placed perfectly between both Nørrebro and Vesterbro. Staying here will have you within walking distance of both, and is also a short trip into the city center. 

• Go shopping at Gammel Kongevej and Værnedamsvej
• Drink coffee at the smallest hotel in Europe, Central Hotel & Café.
• Walk up the impressive boulevard of Frederiksberg Allé .
• Enjoy the beautiful green area of Frederiksberg Have and see the elephants from the park side of Copenhagen Zoo. 
• Experience the magical underground art exhibition of Cisternerne.

Search for hotels in Frederiksberg on TripAdvisor

østerbro.

Østerbro is a quiet and calm area of Copenhagen, mainly populated by families. You won’t find the hippest restaurants and bars here but instead calm nights, wide streets, and a short walk to the ocean. On top, Østerbro has its own cute and local vibe that makes the area very inviting. 

• Go shopping in Nordre Frihavnsgade.
• Visit the big green area of Fælledparken.
• Experience the fitness rooftop overlooking the ocean at Konditaget Lüders.
• Watch a football match at Parken Stadion.
• Go swimming in Nordhavn. 
• Eat at the rooftop garden restaurant ØsterGro. 
• See the colorful houses of Brumleby.

If you are unsure whether your accommodation is central, look how close it’s placed to the main lakes of the city or if it’s within the city metro ring . Anything within that circle or close to those lakes is central and offers great things within a walking distance.

• Another Good Place to Stay is Malmo, Sweden. It takes just 20 minutes to cross the Oresund bridge that links Denmark to this city in Sweden.  Read more information on Malmo.

Search for Hotels in Østerbro on TripAdvisor

How to get around Copenhagen like a Local

Getting around in Copenhagen like a true Dane is done by bike. You have many bike rental options around town or you can even grab a city bike . The latter option can be picked up and dropped off at stations all over the city.  See more information on City Bikes here.

Be very careful when riding around a bike in Copenhagen and know that you are fully part of traffic. Biking is the main means of transportation in the city and locals go fast. Stick to the right side of the bike lane, look over your shoulder, and always use hand signals for turning and stopping. 

If biking is not for you, then Copenhagen has an excellent public transport system, and the metro will get you to most places very efficiently. 

If you are in Copenhagen for a few days then grab a “rejsekort” from a machine, or one of the 7 eleven’s, at a metro or train station. The card costs 80 dkk and you have to top it up on top of that. Public transportation is not cheap in Denmark, but the “rejsekort” gives you almost half price on your trips and works for the metro, busses, and trains. Just remember to check in at the start of your trip and check out at the end. If you have transfers check in at each station but only check out when you have arrived at your final destination. Check out DOT for finding your travel itinerary or even to purchase tickets online.  

What to do in Copenhagen

While there are many things to do in Copenhagen, and you will probably want to visit some touristy sites like Nyhavn and the museums, there are two things that Danes love to do in their capital. 

Visit Christiania

The Liberty state of Christiania is probably the most famous tourist attraction in Copenhagen and understandably so. The history of Christiania is both extremely interesting and completely unique. 

Even though the place does attract a large group of tourists, it is also a popular hang-out spot amongst Danes. Christiania has preserved a part of Danish culture that you don’t find anywhere else and that Danes love. What makes Christiania so special is the freedom and the simplicity of the people who live in this area.

Try heading to Christiania on the weekend for markets, exhibitions, parades, and music events. In the warmer months you have live music playing every weekend at Nemoland. On top, the square at Nemoland is always packed with Danes drinking beer, playing board games, and enjoying the vibe of the neighbourhood.  Only know that you can never take pictures in Pusher street as this will make local sellers of Marihuana very angry.

Go For a Swim

Danes love to swim in Copenhagen and they do it all year round. Yes, even in winter with ice on the water. The ability to swim in the water surrounding Copenhagen is one of the things that makes it so unique. There are many places you can go but know that swimming outside the enclosed areas is illegal and you can get a fine.

The best places to go swimming is Nordhavn, Islands Brygge, Kalvebod Brygge, and Inderhavnen. 

Visit The Tivoli Gardens

The Tivoli Gardens of Copenhagen is a world-famous amusement park that Danes are very proud of. Stepping inside Tivoli is like stepping into a tiny magical wonderland that completely transports you away from the pulsing city outside. 

The Tivoli Gardens are not only popular amongst locals because of fun rides, but even more because of the ambiance and the beauty of the entire park. 

One of the things Danes love the most is going to “Fredagsrock” in Tivoli during the warmer months of May till September. Every Friday during this period, Tivoli hosts a big open-air concert by local or international artists. You don’t need to purchase a ticket, but only pay the Tivoli entry fee and make your way to the main square of the park. 

Tivoli is seasonably open from April till the end of September but opens again for Halloween and Christmas. During Halloween and Christmas Tivoli is beautifully decorated and packed with locals. If you are fortunate enough to be in Copenhagen during these periods, then Tivoli is a must to experience.

Tivoli Gardens is a 175-year-old amusement park which Walt Disney modeled Disneyland. It is not to be missed. Read more here: Tivoli Gardens – Copenhagen’s Enchanting Amusement Park and Pleasure Garden

Go For a Walk

Copenhagen is a great place to take a walk since there are a bunch of green areas and the city has more bikes than cars. Denmark is known as one of the greenest countries in the world, and even though Copenhagen is the capital, nature is embedded in almost every part of the city. The most common walk is around the main lakes. Other than that, take a walk in some of the parks. Go to either Fælledparken, Assistent Kirkegården, Frederiksberg Have, or Kongens Have. Walking along the canals is another great option. 

For more Things to do in Copenhagen for tourists read: 12 Terrific Things to do in Copenhagen in Two Days

Where to Visit Copenhagen Like a Local

I’d advise you to prioritize spending some time in both the Nørrebro and Vesterbro areas. Here it’s easy to walk around and soak up the vibe of the city. Other than that, there are three other things you should prioritize. 

GO TO REFSHALEØEN

Refshaleøen is a new area of Copenhagen that is very spacious and industrial. The area provides a different setting for both swimming and visiting cafes, bars, and restaurants. Since it is a little out of the city, Danes come here to enjoy the spacious area and smaller crowds.

Visit Lille Bakery, La Banchina, or even Noma in this area for something truly special. At Refshaleøen you also find the largest street food market, “Reffen”, that is a fun experience. 

While Refshaleøen is best visited by bike, you can also grab the ferry from Langelinie or even grab a bus.

Check out the Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District of Copenhagen is a mecca for food lovers and to enjoy an evening out. Danes love The Meatpacking District and go here all hours of the day. Whether you want breakfast, coffee, lunch, dinner, or a party, this area has it all. 

If you are in Copenhagen during the summer there are always different events during the weekend . These range from music festivals to food venues, and different markets. These events are always packed with locals and are organized by bars or restaurants around, or by the commune. 

You can also check out the popular street food market “Den Grønne Kødby’ which is open in the warmer months.

Take a City Bike Tour

Copenhagen is best experienced like a true local by bike. There are numerous bike tours in the city where you can experience the best areas and sights easily and enjoyably.

Sail in the Canals of Copenhagen

One of the best aspects of Copenhagen is the surrounding ocean. While in town you must experience the city from the water. 

Most commonly tourists, and sometimes locals, take a canal tour starting from Nyhavn. 

An alternative option, also popular amongst locals, is to rent a private GoBoat from Islands Brygge. At a pretty affordable price, you get your own little boat to take around the canal systems and you can even bring your own picnic. The boats go slow and you don’t need a license. 

What to Eat In Copenhagen

Copenhagen is world-famous for its food scene and you find many amazing restaurants throughout the city. Besides visiting amazing restaurants and cafes, make sure to prioritize the following while you are there. 

Danish Hotdog

Many people don’t know this but the Danish hotdog is something different and special. Danes have their own different sauces and topping for the Danish Hotdog. You find hotdog booths mainly in the center of the city and they provide a quick, easy, and delicious meal. 

Smørrebrød

The open sandwich is the most common and traditional Danish lunch that you have to try while you are in the country. You find Smørrebrød at small delis all over town. For a high-end and unique Smørrebrød experience, visit either Aamanns or Restaurant Palægade. Though pricey, you won’t find any better in Copenhagen. 

Bread and Pastries

Danes are world-famous for bread and pastries, and bakeries are everywhere in Copenhagen. To do like the true Danes, grab breakfast from one of them and eat it somewhere outside. The absolute best options are Hart Bakery, Juno The Bakery, Mirabelle, and Andersen & Maillard. 

Copenhagen is an amazing and extremely beautiful city to visit. Because of its size, it is very easy to move around and you can experience all the great aspects of Copenhagen stress-free. It truly is one of the best cities to visit in Europe and brings its own completely unique experience. 

12 Terrific Things to do in Copenhagen in Two Days

• Tivoli Gardens – Copenhagen’s Enchanting Amusement Park and Pleasure Garden
• 14 Things do in Bergen, Norway
• 8 of the Best Things to do in Tromso, Norway in Winter
• Visit Malmo, Sweden: 2 Day Malmo Itinerary
• 25 Delightful Pictures of Sweden’s South to Make you Visit Now

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Danish Food – 15 Traditional Danish Dishes You Can Try in Denmark or At Home

Tivoli Gardens – Copenhagen’s Enchanting Amusement Park and Pleasure Garden

About Josepine Remo

Josephine Remo is a former flight attendant of seven years, whose biggest passion is traveling. For the past ten years, Josephine has dedicated all her spare time to travel and is currently living as a digital nomad. Having lived in four different countries before the age of 25, she knows all the tips and tricks for experiencing new cultures. Josephine writes travel guides and travel tips from places she has visited all over the world on her blog, josephineremo.com .   You can follow Josephine on Pinterest and Instagram

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2 thoughts on “How to Visit Copenhagen Like a True Dane”

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Copenhagen Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. Explore Freetown Christiania

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

2. Cycle around the city

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

3. Take a boat tour

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

4. Have fun at Tivoli

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

5. Hang out in Nørrebro

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

Other Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. see the christiansborg palace ruins.

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

2. Visit Round Tower

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

3. See the Church of Our Saviour

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

4. Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Experience

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

5. See the National Museum

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

6. Explore the Danish National Gallery

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

7. Experience the nightlife

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

8. See the Little Mermaid

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

9. Relax in Kastellet Park

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

10. Shop at a flea market

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

11. Day trip to Malmö

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

12. Explore Roskilde

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

13. Relax at the botanical gardens

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

14. Visit Rosenborg Castle

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

15. Take a canal tour

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

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

• Aarhus Travel Guide

Copenhagen Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Denmark Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

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

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

How to Get Around Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

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

Copenhagen Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Ultimate Guide to Copenhagen

If you’re embarking on a “ Solo Travel Copenhagen ” adventure, you’re in for a treat. Copenhagen, a gem of a city that evolved from a quaint fishing and merchant harbor town, is now a pulsating, stylish urban paradise perfect for solo travelers.

This Scandinavian hotspot is a blend of chic and bohemian, making it an intriguing destination for those exploring alone. Solo travel in Copenhagen allows you to dive into a world where sustainability is not just a buzzword but a way of life. The city is a leader in green initiatives, embracing wind and solar power, and advanced recycling methods.

The term “Hygge,” which epitomizes Danish coziness and comfort, is at the heart of Copenhagen’s charm. This might explain why Denmark was named the happiest country in the world in 2013. As a solo traveler, you’ll get to experience this happiness firsthand.

Our guide to will show you the best the city has to offer. From its bustling gourmet food scene and sleek design to its bicycle-friendly streets, Copenhagen is not just a destination; it’s an experience. Discover why this city is one of the best places to live and visit in the world, and why the Danes are so content, all on your journey through Copenhagen .

Plan your trip?

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Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

How to get to Copenhagen

The easiest way to get to Copenhagen is by plane and over 60,000 passengers pass through Copenhagen Airport daily.

The international airport is well connected with both metros and trains, despite the difference in language; locals are incredibly friendly and helpful in assisting you with the purchase and navigation of the public transport system. The metro system is really easy to use.

The metro runs 24-hours and stops at Kongens Nytorv, Nørreport, Frederiksberg and Vanløse. The trip from the airport to the city centre only takes 15 minutes by train or metro and a bit longer by bus.

The train, bus or metro journey usually costs around DKK 38. Travelling by taxi is the most expensive method of transportation and it can cost around DKK 250 or upwards to travel from the airport to the city centre.

The best option is to get a Copenhagen Card where you get unlimited transport in the entire Capital, including transfers to and from the airport.

It also gives you access to more than 70 museums and attractions and discounts in restaurants as well as sightseeing activities. You can buy cards for 24, 48, 72 and 120 hours, purchases can also be made online for pickup upon your arrival at Copenhagen Airport.

The best time to visit Copenhagen

Springtime and summertime are the best times to visit Copenhagen , between March and May or between June and August the temperature is warmer and sunnier.

The springtime is when the streets come alive and there is live music in the streets and festivals and celebrations. From October onwards the city goes into hibernation and the winters are often bitterly cold.

What to expect in Copenhagen

Expect a vibrant and young city where everyone cycles! Here you will need to pay attention when crossing the road or idling in a cycle lane as people cycle pretty fast! The best way to experience the city is to get on a bicycle yourself.

It is an extremely safe form of transportation in the city and you will find that the cycle paths are full of cyclists, children, business people and adults and no helmets! In general, drivers are courteous, being outnumbered with 62% of people using bicycles instead of cars!

The Danes are very friendly but are quite reserved, though they may seem not very warm or approachable, the people are very helpful and will be more than happy to give you directions or pointers on where to go. In fact, when asking for directions it was the first place where someone has asked, “do you want the scenic route or the fast one?”

Danish people also speak impeccable English so you will not have any issues communicating during your visit. The native language spoken is Danish.

You will notice that the people are incredibly chic, even cycling in heels and suits! To fit in with the Danes, dress stylishly and conservatively in muted colours and they combat the cold with lots of layers.

The currency used in Denmark is the Krone , be prepared as prices are quite high in Copenhagen, especially in terms of hotels and eating out. Hotels cost between 89 euros and 200 euros per night. Airbnb is a slightly cheaper option and you can live like a Dane in a typical Danish home! For the cheapest option, you can find hostels for around 40 euros a night.

For eating out you should budget a minimum of 50 euros a day per person. The best way to keep your budget down is to eat street food and avoid restaurants. Thought Copenhagen has excellent restaurants and lots of Michelin starred places, eating in one of these will set you back significantly.

Tipping is not common in Copenhagen but feel free to leave a tip for exceptional service. Also be aware that in Copenhagen most places accept payment by card and cash is not commonly handled.

Budget for around 20 euros for museum or attraction entrance prices. If you have the Copenhagen Transport Card you will find that admission to some museums will be included in your ticket.

How to get around Copenhagen

What other way to move around Copenhagen but by bicycle? If you had to choose one thing to fit in with the Danes it would be to get on a bicycle.

There are many places to rent bicycles and it is a healthy way to get around the city, there is even an amazing cycle route that will take you across the Dybbølsbro bridge, criss-crossing the harbour and giving you excellent views of the harbour and city spires and even goes as far as Copenhagen’s Islands.

Cycling is safe and many cyclists don’t even wear helmets! You will see entire families travelling by bike. Bicycle rental places rent out bikes for less than 10 euros a day and you can even get an electric bike if you don’t fancy peddling all around the city.

Most bicycle rental places will even have guided bike tours. Check out Copenhagen Bicycles for their tour options and bike rental options .

For those who don’t feel like hopping on a bike, public transport is excellent in Copenhagen. The metro is the easiest way to get around and trains run every 2 to 4 minutes and a little longer during rush hour and weekends. Your Copenhagen transport card will cover all your travel needs whilst you are exploring the city.

The 24-hour transport card is 80 DKK, which is approximately just over 8 euros. The 48-hour pass is 150 DKK (roughly 15.41 euros). The 72 hour pass is 200 DKK (roughly 20.55 euros) and finally a 120 hour pass costs 300 DKK (30.82 euros approximately). This makes getting around very cheap and good value for money!

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Below is a list of a few of our favorite hotels, however, We have also written an extensive guide on  Where to stay in Copenhagen .

The Avenue Hotel – The Avenue is a two-star boutique hotel in the centre of Copenhagen with charming furnishing and modern interior design, the hotel is located between Nørrebro and Vesterbro and there is the possibility to rent bicycles from the hotel for 150 DKK per day. Rooms start at 70 euros per night.

Comfort Hotel Vesterbro – This hotel is situated in the cool Vesterbro district a short stroll from Copenhagen Central Station and Tivoli Park. The hotel is modern and rooms are minimalist but comfortable and clean.

The area where the hotel is situated is arty and bohemian and the price of rooms starts from 96 euros a night and includes breakfast, which helps budget travellers save money whilst eating out.  Bonus!

Hotel Alexandra – If you want to live and breathe vintage Danish design, this hotel will fulfil your design dreams. The whole hotel is decorated with pieces of Danish mid-century vintage furniture. It is situated just around the corner from the City Hall Square, Latin Quarter and the shopping area and Tivoli Park is also nearby.

This stylish hotel will transport you back to the 50s and 60s and you can enjoy their selection of vinyl records with a free glass of wine. This place is ideal for a stylish city getaway! Prices for rooms start from 105 euros per night.

Danhostel Copenhagen City – The best option for those on a tight budget who don’t want to sacrifice style, the Danhostel is the only hostel in the world designed by furniture designer of the Danish company Gubi in collaboration with the MOMA in New York.

The hostel overlooks the central canal and is a short stroll from Central Station. There are shared rooms for 4,6, 8 or 10 guests which is ideal if you are travelling in a group and these rooms are ensuite with their own shower and bathroom.

Things to do in Copenhagen

See the little mermaids yes two of them.

Yes that’s right. Mermaids, plural! Hans Christian Andersen, one of the most beloved local celebrities, penned his famous woeful tale about the Little Mermaid and you can visit the statue of the Little Mermaid at Langelinie, 2100 Copenhagen.

This sculpture has suffered a lot of abuse over the years and has even had her head chopped off at one point. The bronze sculpture of the Little Mermaid is one of Europe’s most visited statues and is over a century old!

Be prepared as the Little Mermaid is VERY little and you will have to jostle past the queues of tourists to the front to get a picture of the sculpture. *Word of caution, don’t get on the rocks next to the mermaid, it can be very dangerous*

There has been some backlash to the original mermaid and Bjørn Nørgaard, a fine arts professor, created a Little Mermaid for the modern day in 2006. His Little Mermaid is a distorted nightmare with an abstract body and elephantine head and is called the Genetically Modified Little Mermaid. You can visit it at Langelinie Allé 17.

Check out the street food scene!

Copenhagen has excellent street food markets and casual dining. You can check out the foodie paradise of Torvehallernekbh where you can find everything from baked goods to bánh mì.

In this melting pot food market you can find something to suit every taste. Don’t forget to try the authentic Danish pastries from Granny’s house!

An offbeat food market is the district of Koedbyen, the meatpacking district; here you will find excellent stalls and food trucks selling everything from burgers to Italian cuisine and seafood! To try some of the best seafood in Copenhagen, head to Kødbyens Fiskebar . Flæsketorvet 100 1711.

Reffen is now Copenhagen’s latest trendy spot for sustainable food and culture. Here you can find more than 40 food stalls selling a wide variety of cuisine as well as upcycling workshops and different activities. Don’t forget to try the delicious roast pork-crackling sandwich known as flæskestegs.

Get on your bike!

When in Rome, do as the Romans do! In Copenhagen the thing to do is cycle! There are excellent bike routes for cycling and you can venture down the Havneringen route, which will take you on 13km past some of the most popular sights of Copenhagen.

On this route you will pass the Black Diamond Library, ride the famous elevated bike lane, cross the harbour bridges and head down to Christianshavn to see the houseboats bobbing in the harbour. Just further on you will find Amager Fælled where the city meets wild nature.

Escape to nature at Nokken

Just between the harbour and Amager Fælled is Nokken, a hidden gem full of allotment gardens and hobbit houses. Here you will find jugglers, human statues and a chilled-out vibe, perfect if you want to escape the crowds in the city centre.

In the spring and summer you will find lots of people lounging around in the parks around Copenhagen. There are some excellent parks where you can have a picnic or even have a nap.

One of the best gardens in Copenhagen is the Botanical Gardens, which has more than 13,000 species of flora and fauna and a butterfly house. There are 27 glass greenhouses to explore and the Palm House has a narrow spiral staircase that takes you to a walkway where you can get an aerial view of the palm treetops.

Another impressive park is the Royal Library Gardens in Søren Kierkegaards Pl. 1.  This park gives you a chance to escape the crowds and its centrepiece is the large water fountain.

Another park worth visiting is the romantic Frederiksberg Park, Frederiksberg Runddel 1A, where you can explore the beautiful lakes, canals, nature trails and the Frederiksberg Palace, built in the Italian Baroque style. This park is beautiful and charming and is perfect for an afternoon stroll!

Row, row, row your boat

Copenhagen has a myriad of harbours and canals. The Go Boats are solar powered boats that patrol the waters and can take up to eight people at a time.

You can bring your own lunch and enjoy the views whilst having your very own picnic! See the Opera House and Skuespilhuset, or Christianshavn from a different perspective. Best of all, no boating license is required!

Places to visit in Copenhagen

Værnedamsvej.

Known as Copenhagen’s Paris this neighbourhood is full of cafes, restaurants and little shops with a very chic and Parisian feel during the weekends. Here you can sit and have breakfast or enjoy a coffee at the world’ smallest hotel, Central Hotel.

Visit the Hippy Free State of Christiania

Christiania, situated at Bådsmandsstræde 43, is considered a free state and is basically a town within the city.

Originally built by hippies in 1971 on the site of a former military base, it follows its own rules and people who seek to escape the conventional city life flocked there to establish workshops, organic allotments, creative homes and is also famous for being a place where people freely buy weed.

This is ideal destination to head to on your bike, once there you can park your bicycle and walk around for a few hours, exploring the nature around Christiania.

Rub shoulders with Danish politicians at Toga Vin & Ølstue

This bar is one of the oldest institutions of Danish politics. Here you can find people from all branches of government.

Here all conversations are strictly off the record! You will see parliament and cabinet ministers openly debating over beers and discussing politics and current affairs.

Have a drink in a café hidden in a bridge tower

Kulturtårnet is a bar close to Christianshavn, on the same side of the Knippelsbro Bridge, and many Danes are not even aware of its existence.

Tucked away in the bridge tower, and market by a white flag, this unassuming café is almost submarine-like, with its circular windows with views over the river.

The tower itself has been standing for around 80 years but the café was only recently established in the last few years. Here you can grab a coffee and even enjoy a nice meal. It is also used for cultural events and is definitely worth a visit!

Explore the Gallery of Noses at Glyptotek

In the 19 th century, reconstruction of damaged antique marble statues was a common practice before there was no more demand for restoration.

As a result, an excess of appendages and limbs were left discarded and unwanted, no longer being required to patch up broken statues.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek decided to create the Nasothek, a display of over 100 noses, which you can wander around and learn about the historical process of art restoration.

Cabinet of Curiosities

The Geological Museum has a permanent exhibition made up of original pieces from Denmark’s first museum entitled “All Things Strange and Beautiful”.

Ole Worm demonstrated that unicorn horns were actually the tusks of narwhals in 1638 and you can see narwhal skulls and other curious taxidermy animals, such as a polar bear, in this collection of curiosities from the 17 th century.

While you’re there it is worth exploring the Geological Museum as well and you can easily spend an hour or two exploring the museum and its varied exhibitions as well the surrounding Botanical Gardens.

Carlsberg ’s Elephant gate

In 1901, Carl Jacobson constructed the Elephant Gate as part of the new Carlsberg Brewery. Two large elephants flank the side of the gate and were chosen by Carl Jacobsen as symbols of good luck and prosperity.

There is also a lot of other imagery in this gate, including some swastikas, which he used as the official symbol for Carlsberg, as they once symbolised good fortune.

However, their symbolism took a sinister turn in 1930s with the emergence of Nazism and Carlsberg discontinued the use of the swastika in 1940. Each elephant also bears initials of each of Carl’s remaining children (four of his children had died by the time the gate was finally constructed).

Carl’s love of elephants was such that he sponsored the elephants at Copenhagen Zoo and even launched a beer in 1959 called “Elephant Beer”. The facility has been long abandoned and on-site production of beer stopped in 2008 and the area was designated for redevelopment into a residential neighbourhood.

Visit the backdrop to “The Danish Girl” in Nyhavn

The highly-acclaimed film, “The Danish Girl” was filmed around Nyhavn, one of the most beautiful parts of the city with its multi-coloured houses and canal side coffee shops, here you can admire the charming 17 th century buildings at sunset or hop on a boat ride along the canal.

In the film, the protagonists Gerda and Einar, live in Nyhavn, transformed into the fish market it once was.

Nowadays, this area is bustling with bars and restaurants and is one of the more upmarket places around to eat and drink. This was also the territory of Hans Christian Andersen who used to live at no. 20.

Visit the famous Tivoli Park

Just next to the Central Station is the world famous Tivoli Park at Vesterbrogade 3. One of the oldest amusement parks in the world and has been running continuously since its doors opened in 1843.

You can ride the Rutschebanen, a wooden rollercoaster that dates back to 1914! There are also modern rides such as swinging galley ships and bumper cars and a trip to this vintage park is a must for amusement park lovers!

Visit the burial place or many great Danes at Assistens Kirkegaard

Assistens Kirkegaard, at Kapelvej 4 is the final resting place of many historic Danes including Hans Christian Andersen.

This place is a great place to cycle and in fact is a local hangout; you will find lots of people having picnics, BBQs or even lovers trysts alongside the gravestones.

The cemetery is located in the trendy Nørrebro district and is a place where you can observe Danish people chilling out and enjoying their weekend .

Check out the graffiti at Bolsjefabrikken

The burgeoning street art scene can be found at Bolsjefabrikken , Ragnhildgade 1, a cultural institution run by volunteers set in a large old abandoned warehouse.

Here you can find live music, workshops and lots of graffiti as well as small exhibitions of young, upcoming artists from Copenhagen.

Head to the beach

Copenhagen is home to Amager Stranpark’s man-made beach, where you can enjoy the summer with the Danish crowds, indulge in water sports or take a beachside stroll.

Dive into the culture at Huset-KBH

Huset-KBH, situated in Rådhusstræde 13, is part of the flourishing cultural scene of Copenhagen. Here you can find live music, burlesque shows and cult cinema.

They even have showings of the cult film “The Room” where you can throw plastic spoons at the screen during the showing!

What to eat in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a lot of great food on offer for travellers on a budget and their street food scene is vibrant and eclectic. Here is a list of the top 10 things to eat in Copenhagen!

Rød pølse or red sausage

The Danes love their sausages! No trip to Copenhagen would be complete without savouring one of the many hot dogs in the city. A delicious, filling and cheap meal whilst you’re on the move they are usually served inside a fresh bun. The most

Roast pork sandwiches in The Meatpacking District

The food scene at the Meatpacking District revolves around meat; here you must try the local favourite with juicy pork served up with pork crackling.

Denmark’s traditional dish consists of an open-face sandwich of fish or meat with sauce on a crusty slice of rye bread. You will find this at almost every restaurant in the city.

Head to the Royal Smushi Café, 6 Amagertorv København K, 1160 (www.royalsmushicafe.dk) and check out the smørrebrød app to find other places in the city to enjoy this local delicacy.

Grød (Porridge)

Enjoy breakfast like a Dane and nourish your soul with a bowl of porridge in Copenhagen’s trendy Nørrebro district at the city’s first porridge café where you can find the humble dish with all flavour combinations such as chestnut puree, apples or kale-parmesan risotto among them.

Frikadeller

The Danes love their meatballs also known as frikadeller, steaming and freshly tossed in butter; they are served with boiled potatoes or on smorrebrod.

Marinated or Pickled Herring

For true Nordic food you have to taste the local favourite: herring. Surrounded by the sea, Denmark serves up a delicious array of seafood but herring holds a special place in their heart.

Served with crusty rye bread and eggs, this dish has survived decades and still is one of the popular dishes in Copenhagen. Drop into Musling Bistro near Nørreport Station in the city centre and see what the hype is all about!

Salmon can be found on every menu and is served in all manners. Taste some delicious cold smoked salmon served up on a piece of buttery bread or try some salmon fishballs at Restaurant Kronborg, Brolæggerstræde 12.

Burgers are the ultimate street food and in Copenhagen, the excellent beef takes burgers to another level. A thriving burger scene has grown in Copenhagen and you can find great burgers at a great budget in stalls in the Meatpacking District such as Haché Gourmet Burgers, Rømersgade 20 and theGasoline Grill, Landgreven 10.

International cuisine

Copenhagen had an immigration policy decades ago that was not as strict as it is today and many small businesses sprung up in Nørrebro serving delicious food from all over the world. You can find tasty Turkish durum in Nørrebro’s main street such as Beyti and Konyali. You can also enjoy Falafel, the delicious Middle Eastern dish made of chickpeas such as the Falafel Factory. There is also a great Bao dumpling place called Gao Dumpling Bar to satisfy any Asian food cravings.

Tours to do in Copenhagen

Discover Nordic cuisine on a food tour

If you want to savour the best the city has to offer, join a food tour! A culinary walking tour takes around two and a half hours and will give you insight into the local cuisine, culture and history of Danish food. Prices start from 35 euros per person.

On your bike!

See Copenhagen from your bicycle and get some exercise at the same time! A half-day tour will let you enjoy the scenery and architecture of the city and take you past sights such as Rosenborg Castle and Amalienborg Palace. Prices start from 48 euros per person.

Tour Copenhagen’s canals

You can do a canal tour to see the city from a different perspective. A one-hour boat tour will show you the picturesque scenery whilst gliding along the canals of the city. You can see the Amalienborg Palace, the Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen Opera House; and discover the canals of the Christianshavn neighbourhood

Day trips from Copenhagen

Frederiksborg castle.

Take a trip into the past with a tour of Frederiksborg Castle, home of Denmark’s Museum of National History.

Here you can find out about King Christian IV and explore the royal rooms such as the Coronation Chapel, stroll through the beautifully manicured French Baroque gardens and discover Fredesborg Castle, the Danish royal family’s summer residence. To make the most of the trip go on a guided tour .

You can reach the Castle by public transport, taking the S-train’s line E heading to Hillerød, and then walking 15 to 20 minutes to the castle along the lake.  Guided day trips depart from the City Hall Square at 10:30 am from May to September and will take approximately 6.5 hours.

The Island of Fyn

The Island of Fyn is a wild romantic landscape and has served as inspiration for many fairy tales. It was the plae where Hans Christian Andersen was born and is home to some stunning castles such as Egeskov Slot, Nyborg Slot, Holckenhavn Slot, Broholm Gods, and Harridslevgaard Slot.

Wander the hundreds of acres of orchards and visit the old fashioned farm houses and enjoy the natural beauty of the Garden Islands. There is a direct train from Copenhagen to Odense that runs every 30 minutes and costs between 19 and 29 euros. You can arrive in less than two hours.

The City of Aarhus

One of the most popular day trips from Copenhagen is the historic city on Denmark’s western peninsula called Aarhus. The best time to go is in July for the Viking Festival where you can see recreations of life in early Denmark complete with markets, sword fighting displays and themed events.

You can also visit the Contemporary Art Museum called ARoS, the Viking Museum and the botanical gardens whilst visiting Aarhus. You can take a train for the three-hour journey to Aarhus from Copenhagen; trains leave every 30 to 45 minutes.

Savour local whiskey on Hven Island

Take a trip to the beach and visit Hven Island, situated between Denmark and Sweden, where you can see stretches of pristine beaches, the remains of an observatory from the 16 th century and indulge in the local whiskey at Spirit of Hven Distillery. You can easily travel there by ferry from Copenhagen and the journey takes 90 minutes.

Discover the historic village of Dragør

To get a sense of what Denmark was once like, travel to Dragør where you can see a preserved fishing village from the 12 th century.

You can experience an open-air recreation of life in ancient Denmark at the Amager museum and visit the harbour museum to learn about the life of fishermen in this historic harbour village. Frequent buses and trains leave Copenhagen and will take you there in just 30 minutes.

Head to Sweden!

From Copenhagen, Sweden is a short distance away and you can visit Helsingborg, Lund, and Malmö to see a different culture and country, which you can do in a day!

There are regular trains departing from København H, the Central Station, every 10 minutes and the journey takes around 35 minutes to get to the centre of Malmö. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour, which will take you to all three cities in a day, and you won’t have to worry about getting there and back.

Recommend budget tours in Copenhagen

• Copenhagen Card
• Aarhus 3-hour Private Bike Tour
• Copenhagen Private Walking Tour
• Grand Day Trip around Copenhagen (highly recommended!)
• Grand Inner City Tour of Copenhagen
• 2.5-Hour Guided Walking Food Tour in Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Canal Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry to Tivoli Gardens
• Copenhagen Canal Tour
• Copenhagen Small-Group Bike Tour
• Sweden Daytrip: Lund & Malmö City Tour
• In the Footsteps of the Vikings – daytrip from Copenhagen to Roskilde
• Danish Hygge Culture and Historical Copenhagen Walking Tour
• Private Half-Day Frederiksborg Castle Tour

Get your guide is a great company that often offers heavily discounted tours! Check out a few options below:

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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24 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Copenhagen Denmark

Copenhagen Denmark is an awesome European destination definitely worth visiting. If you are thinking of traveling to Scandinavia, visiting Copenhagen needs to be at the top of your list!

I’ve lived in Denmark for 3+ years now and have made my fair share of trips to visit Copenhagen. We live in a small town in Denmark about three hours away from the city so we go and spend a day in Copenhagen (or a long weekend) quite frequently. From all of these trips to Copenhagen, I’ve compiled this list of 24 things to know before visiting Copenhagen Denmark!

Denmark is often ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world (although many Danes roll their eyes at this). However, I’d largely attribute this to their amazing work/life culture (hello 37-hour work week), universal healthcare and the culture of getting outside for a walk or bike ride no matter the weather (we’re looking at you rain).

Besides visiting one of the ‘happiest’ countries in the world, you’ve never seen a cycling culture like the culture you’ll find in Copenhagen. For example, there is a cyclist bridge in the city that sees over 40,000 cyclists EVERY day! That alone is reason enough to visit this city in Scandinavia (but seriously seeing all the cyclists is one of my favorite things).

We know lots of yummy, cheap eats in Copenhagen and have found our fair share of Copenhagen budget-friendly hotels . And this post is to give you all of my top recommendations of things to know and top tips before you visit Copenhagen!

*There are affiliate links in this post.  Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING COPENHAGEN DENMARK

1. there is nothing called black licorice in copenhagen it’s just called licorice.

Okay, so maybe what to call licorice isn’t necessarily the most important thing you need to know before your trip to Copenhagen. However, it’s definitely a good souvenir and it will give you a sneak peek into Danish culture.

In the US we are used to what we call licorice (which is red) and then what we call black licorice (which is black). Red licorice in the US really isn’t licorice, it’s just called that because of the similar texture to the OG black licorice.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW (@lakridsbybulow)

Denmark just has black licorice aka real licorice and it’s a big deal. You’ll see licorice-flavored ice cream, sprinkles for ice cream, licorice gum, and tons of different licorice variations in the candy aisle. They even have licorice-covered chocolate balls rolled in spicy powder for those that want hot licorice (I’m not joking it’s called lakrids stærk or ‘strong’).

Anyway, I definitely recommend picking up some licorice while you travel in Copenhagen or asking for licorice sprinkles on your ice cream! You can find plenty of varieties at a grocery store. However, if you want loads of flavor options that come in a super cute container, swing by one of the many Lakrids Bülow shops in Copenhagen.

2. The best times to Visit Copenhagen Denmark are the Summertime and Christmastime

By far the best time of year to travel to Copenhagen is the summer, followed by Christmas. This is because it rains SO much in Copenhagen and if you want any chance of clear blue skies then you’ll want to visit in peak summer months.

By peak summer months I mean visiting from June-August. However, July is known to be an especially busy month in Denmark since it’s the schools’ summer holidays (meaning July has higher prices and more crowds). However, you can for sure bleed into May and September and still have chances of great weather.

The main thing to understand is that Copenhagen often has grey skies and rainy days. And that’s ok! Even if you visit in mid-July, you still may get all rain (or you might have beautiful weather with storybook clouds).

We’ve visited the city during all different months of the year and are always sure to come prepared with proper jackets and/or umbrellas.

The next best time of year to see Copenhagen is when the city is decked out in Christmas lights, decorations markets, ice rinks, and more. Plus you can taste yummy æbleskiver, rice pudding, and gløgg!

You can expect Christmas festivities to begin mid-November and last through the end of December.

3. You’ll easily get by in Copenhagen Speaking English

Danes were recently ranked as the world’s second-best speakers of English as a second language. A whopping 86% of Danes report being able to speak English fluently (which is awesome but a little tricky if you are trying to learn Danish).

Danes start learning English in the first year of grade school and continue learning all the way through graduation. All of this to say, you’ll get by just fine in Copenhagen only speaking English. But of course, it’s always nice to keep the Google Translate App on your phone for items at the grocery store or signs that are only in Danish.

4. Food and lodging in Copenhagen can be pricey

Food and lodging can be a bit pricey in Copenhagen, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit! I’ve put together a list of budget-friendly (but beautiful) Copenhagen hotels and a cheap eats Copenhagen food guide .

For lodging, I’d recommend planning on $175-$200 per night or more depending on your needs. And for food, I’d recommend budgeting about $15-$20 for a pretty basic meal.

5. The Copenhagen airport is only a short train ride to the city center

Unlike the airports in Paris or London, the Copenhagen airport is just a short 15-minute metro ride from the city center! This means you may even be able to see a good amount of the city if you have a long layover at the Copenhagen airport.

If you plan on using public transit in Copenhagen, be sure to pick up the Copenhagen Card or the public transit City Pass .

6. The Copenhagen Card is a great way to save money on public transit and attractions

The Copenhagen Card is a great card that includes admission to over 80 attractions/experiences in Copenhagen, plus it offers free public transit within Copenhagen and to and from the airport. You can purchase the Copenhagen Card in increments from 1-5 days depending on how long you will be in the city.

I’m all about having a card that covers all public transportation. It’s so nice not to worry about paying for each ride on the metro or bus.

Some of the top sights you can use the Copenhagen Card for are a canal cruise, The Round Tower, Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Castle, Danish Design Museum, and more!

7. Copenhagen is often voted as one of the safest cities in the world

I’m all about feeling safe while I’m traveling and there are very few places that you may feel safer in than Copenhagen. Copenhagen is often ranked as one of the safest cities in the world because of its low crime rate and relatively narrow wealth gap.

This makes it a great destination for families and solo travelers, plus anyone else who just prefers a basic feeling of safety.

Of course, as with anywhere, you’ll want to exercise basic precautions to ensure safety and prevent pickpockets.

8. Taking a canal cruise will be a highlight of your trip to Copenhagen Denmark

Copenhagen is home to some very picturesque canals lined with tethered sailboats and colorful buildings. The most famous canal is Nyhavn (you’ve seen pictures I’m sure) but you also get to see lesser-known, but super cute areas like Christianshavn.

You can book a 1-hour guided canal tour from Nyhavn , a 2-hour guided tour with a small group , or even captain your own small boat through the canals (one of my favorite ways to cruise the canals).

I enjoy the canal cruises so much that I am sure to take any guests that visit us on one. I’ve even written an entire post about my favorite Copenhagen canal cruises . It’s just such a great way to see a large amount of the city, learn a little bit of history and fun facts, and have fun while doing so.

There are two different canal cruises included for free with the Copenhagen Card if you plan to purchase a Copenhagen Card for your time in the city.

9. There are so many fairytale castles to see in and near Copenhagen

Another great thing about a city break to Copenhagen is that but you can also see many beautiful, fairytal-esque castles! Just while walking around the city, you can visit Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, Christianborg Palace, and Fredriksberg Palace.

Plus, just within 1-2 hours of the city you can see Fredriksborg Castle (one of my favorites), Kronborg Castle (from Hamlet) and Egeskov Castle (perfect for families).

For a true local experience, bring a picnic lunch to The King’s Garden next to Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen and relax with the picturesque castle as your backdrop.

10. There are separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists

As I’ve mentioned, Copenhagen the cycling scene in Copenhagen is absolutely thriving. And because of this, you need to be aware of a few things concerning cyclists.

Copenhagen has specific bike lanes that are often nestled between the road and the sidewalk or walking path. And you need to be sure to stay on the walking path and to not step out into the bike lane without looking. That’s basically the equivalent of stepping out into the road without looking.

Cyclists pass quickly and frequently so you definitely need to be aware of your surroundings and be thinking of cyclists (especially if you aren’t used to being around bicycle traffic).

This is also important if you rent a car in Copenhagen. Be sure to check your side mirrors frequently before taking any right turns. It can be hard to remember that a group of cyclists may be sneaking up in your blind spot!

11. There are great day trips to take from Copenhagen

If you are lucky enough to have more than one day in Copenhagen then you may have some time to make some great day trips from Copenhagen! Here are some of my favorite and most popular day trips from the city:

• Frederiksborg Castle (epic castle and chapel full of Carl Bloch paintings-my favorite day trip)
• Roskilde, Denmark (see original Viking ships at the Roskilde Viking Ship Museum and an epic cathedral)
• Kronborg Castle (the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet)
• Tisvildeleje Beach in the ‘Danish Riviera’ (see rolling sand dunes and beaches with colorful changing huts)
• Dragør, Denmark (see an idyllic fisherman village with cobblestone streets and yellow houses close to the city)
• Odense, Denmark (the birthplace of Hans Christian Anderson and close to Egeskov Castle )
• Møns Klint (see limestone and chalk cliffs along the Baltic Sea)
• Malmö, Sweden (see an additional country just a 35-minute train ride away!)
• Billund, Denmark (the home of LEGO world headquarters and the amazing LEGO House experience)

12. Seeing The Little Mermaid statue is a little underwhelming

Okay, if you’ve researched things to do in Copenhagen for more than a few minutes you’ve probably come across The Little Mermaid statue. The Little Mermaid statue was erected in the Copenhagen harbor in 1913 based on the 1837 fairytale written by the Danish author Hans Christian Anderson.

I don’t necessarily recommend visiting the Little Mermaid statue just to visit the statue as it is about a one-mile walk from Nyhavn away from many other top Copenhagen attractions. Plus it’s quite small making it a little underwhelming 😅. However, if you want a nice stroll along the harbor it’s a nice thing to see along the way.

We rented bikes and rode along the harbor past The Little Mermaid while on our way to other sites in the city. Nearby The Little Mermaid statue you can see the Kastellet citadel or pick up ice cream at a kiosk near The Little Mermaid statue.

Another great way to see the statue is on a Copenhagen canal cruise . Every canal cruise in Copenhagen sails past The Little Mermaid Statue, plus you get to see the rest of the city’s picturesque canals and modern harbor.

You can choose between a large, 1-hour guided canal cruise or a smaller, more intimate 2-hour guided canal cruise .

13. The sun stays up late in the summer and goes down early in winter

In the summer months, the sun can rise at 4:30 am and set at 10:00 pm. This means if you are a light sleeper, you may want to bring an eye mask along with you in case your accommodations don’t have proper blackout curtains.

On the other hand, in the winter, the sun won’t rise until around 8:30 am and it can set early around 3:30 pm. If you are visiting at Christmastime it’s not such a bad deal since there will be plenty of Christmas lights and lit-up markets you want to see (not to mention Tivoli Gardens sparkling in the night) so it’s almost kind of nice to have the evening start a little earlier.

14. Keep an eye out for parking meters

If you’re renting a car in Copenhagen, pretty much anywhere you park is going to cost money. And that’s okay, it really isn’t too expensive (we aren’t talking New York City prices). However, you may need to do a little searching to find the meter where you pay.

We have parked on the street in Copenhagen before and the meter was almost a block away. And even though it was so far away it clearly showed that we were in an area that we needed to pay for.

The easiest way to pay for parking is via the Easy Park App . Almost every parking lot and even the street parking in Copenhagen can be paid for via the Easy Park App. You can even add time via the app while you are out and about- I definitely recommend it.

15. It is illegal to turn right at a red stoplight (bikes included)

Another tip if you’re traveling in Copenhagen with a car, is that it is illegal to turn right at a red stoplight. This may take some practice to remember if you’re coming from the US where it’s allowed.

And once the light turns green, you need to be very aware of cyclists passing by you on the right side before you take that right turn. If you’re driving during commuter traffic time, it can feel quite stressful with all of the bikes passing by.

16. The Copenhagen Harbor is so clean you can swim in it

Another unique aspect of Copenhagen is that the Copenhagen harbor is clean enough for swimming and there are multiple designated swimming areas! The most popular and central harbor bath is Islands Brygge where you’ll find both tall jumping platforms and shallow play areas!

You can even take a dip in most of the swim areas in the winter if you want to try Danish winter bathing.

17. Copenhagen has multiple Michelin-star restaurants

If fancy food is your thing, Copenhagen is the place for you. Copenhagen boasts 20+ restaurants with Michelin stars! I haven’t personally eaten at any of the Michelin restaurants in Copenhagen ( I can barely afford the budget-friendly food in Copenhagen 🤣).

However, if you’re looking for the best of the best, Noma is one of the most famous restaurants in Copenhagen/the world and has been awarded the max number of Michelin stars available. But it will cost you a pretty penny and you need to get reservations months in advance.

18. You need to try a Danish pølse (hot dog) from a street cart

If you pick up just one typical Danish meal, for sure have it be a hot dog from a Danish hot dog cart (of course, you also need to stop at a bakery for treats afterward). Hot dog carts have been a staple in Copenhagen since 1920- at one point there were more than 400 street carts selling pølse!

The most traditional Danish hot dog is a ‘ristet pølse’ with, spicy mustard, remoulade, ketchup, fried onions, and thin pickle slices. Be sure to try it with all the toppings! If you don’t like it, just pick up another one later with only the toppings you want😄.

You can find these hot dog carts all over the city, there’s even one right at Nyhavn, one next to The Round Tower, and others along the pedestrian-only area, Strøget.

19. Smørrebrød is a unique local food to pick up for lunch

Another traditional Danish food you are sure to see or hear about is called smørrebrød. Smørrebrød is basically a slice of hearty rye bread topped with various toppings. The most common toppings are pickled herring, salmon, shrimp, and roast beef (not all together😅).

I personally prefer the vegetarian smørrebrød options with toppings like potato or avocado (which can be a little trickier to find). One of the most popular places to pick up smørrebrød in Copenhagen is Aamanns but you can find it all over and there is usually a stall selling it in any of the food halls.

20. Be sure to swing by a bakery in Copenhagen and try wienerbrød, kanelsnegl or romkugle

Every new place I visit, I’m sure to make a stop at a few local bakeries and Copenhagen is no exception. If you’re coming from the US, you may be thinking you can pick up a pastry called a Danish ( I mean you are in Denmark after all). However, nothing exists by that name here.

However, you will find wienerbrød with cream filling and that’s the closest thing to what Americans call Danishes (although wienerbrød is much better…shock, surprise).

Another top treat to try is a kanelsnegl which is Denmark’s answer to a cinnamon roll or romkugle which is a sprinkle-covered ball made up of leftover pastries all mashed together.

And if you like marzipan, then Copenhagen is the place for you! You will find SO many bakery options that include marzipan if that’s what you’re into.

A great bakery to swing by is Sankt Peders Bageri aka the oldest bakery in Copenhagen famous for their kanelsnegls.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sct. Peders Bageri & Konditori (@sct.pedersbageriogkonditori)

21. Copenhagen is home to Tivoli Gardens- an amusement park visited by Walt Disney

I usually don’t think to visit amusement parks on international trips, however, Copenhagen is an exception. The center of Copenhagen is home to a beautiful amusement park called Tivoli Gardens. Tivoli has been around since 1843 and is the third-oldest operating amusement park in the world.

It is rumored that Walt Disney visited Tivoli and received inspiration for Disneyland. Which would make sense because Tivoli is an incredibly beautiful, clean fun park with live shows, music, good restaurants and fun rides.

If you only go on one ride, be sure it’s the wooden Roller Coaster (Rutschebanen). It’s one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world and it’s so fun! The crazy thing is that the coaster is braked by a real employee that sits on the ride and controls a large brake lever in a fun almost theatrical way.

22. Many interesting tours/experiences can be booked in Copenhagen

One of the best things to know before visiting Copenhagen is that you can find many unique activities and tours led by locals to help you get a better feel for the city.

You can find a guided bike tour (or an e-bike tour ) through popular neighborhoods and past top sights, a super fun Danish pastry baking class , a cozy Copenhagen hygge tour , and even a tour that will take you on a day trip to Sweden .

Choosing one of these local-led experiences is definitely a great way to experience Copenhagen and the surrounding areas.

23. There are other awesome places to see in Denmark besides Copenhagen

Copenhagen is by far the most popular place for visitors to see in Denmark, however, there are plenty of other beautiful and interesting places to see! The best way to see the rest of Denmark is to rent a car and take 3-5 days to travel from Copenhagen to Denmark’s northernmost point, Skagen (where you can see the waves meeting of the Baltic and North Sea).

Other great places to see in Denmark include Roskilde , Odense, Billund, and Aarhus (just to name a few) to then end in Skagen. Skagen is also just a ferry ride away from Norway or Sweden if you’d like to then travel on to see more of Scandinavia.

24. Copenhagen Denmark is a popular stop on Scandinavian Cruises

If cruising is your thing, you’ll be happy to know that you can find Copenhagen on many Scandinavian cruise itineraries. You could hop on a Scandinavian cruise to stop in Copenhagen with other possible stops in Denmark like Aarhus and Skagen and then cruise onto Sweden then the Norwegian Fjords.

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

The Only Itinerary You Need for One Day in Copenhagen

• 8 Unique Canal Tours in Copenhagen You Need to Book
• 8 Incredible and Budget-Friendly Copenhagen Hotels
• The Ultimate Cheaps Eats Copenhagen Food Guide
• How to Visit Islands Brygge Harbour Bath in Copenhagen (Havnebadet Islands Brygge)
• Viking Ship Museum Denmark: Everything You Need to Know
• A Local’s Ultimate Guide to The LEGO House Home of the Brick
• Aarhus, Denmark: 8 amazing things to do, see, and eat

And those are the top 24 things I think you need to know before visiting Copenhagen, Denmark! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions about Copenhagen travel or Denmark travel in general. I love to talk all things travel.

Like it? Pin it!

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Thanks so much for this family-friendly travel content. Would love to see a child-friendly itinerary for Copenhagen similar to the one you did for Amsterdam! We’re planning a trip to both cities in 2025 and our kiddo will be 5-years old by then.

I’m happy it’s been helpful to you 🙂 I definitely plan to make some more child-friendly Copenhagen content, just not sure when I’ll get to it- but I’d imagine I get some things together before 2025 🙂

Thank you for the tips. I am making a visit for work to Sweden and have a day and a half in Copenhagen. This is my first visit and I want to experience it as much as possible. This was very helpful.

You’re welcome! I hope you have a great time in Copenhagen. Let me know if you have any questions that come up 🙂

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14 Very Best Places To See In Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a surprising city and I say that with love! It’s one of those cities that feels almost town-like in its appearance but with the buzz and vibrancy that matches any major capital city across Europe. There’s honestly a heap of the best places to see in Copenhagen and you’ll be spoilt for choice once you arrive.

It’s also a city where can you visit one of the oldest Luna parks in the world, ride the waves of its famous waterways and gorge on delicious street food.

All within one day!

Whether due to its amazing castles , its stunning waterways or beautiful places in Denmark , that are a stone’s throw from the city. You’ll have an epic time exploring all the best places to see in Copenhagen for sure!

That being said, planning your time efficiently here can be a daunting prospect, especially if you’ve got to herd friends. Which, can sometimes feel like herding cats.

So, if you find yourself in that position, take a look below at some of the best places to see in Copenhagen when you first visit. Have the best time. 

1.) Eat at the best street food markets

There are a good few street food markets to visit in Copenhagen. Each of which will ensure that you never run out of delicious opportunities to fill your tummy.

Head to Reffen that is the perfect place to visit as this is where locals and visitors alike start their evenings in the city. Head to one of the many worldly and unique stalls that sell everything from juicy steaks and Japanese food to craft beers that are out of this world.

Saying that, Torvehallerne Market is the perfect place to enjoy a weekend brunch or even buy some of the freshest seasonal ingredients to make your very own.

Take a wander through the stalls and discover some of the high-quality products that this market offers. Just be prepared for slightly higher than average grocery prices (though it is arguably worth it!).

Koedbyen is the city’s cool Meat Packing District Market in Copenhagen that’s a hit with locals and visitors alike. Head here for a quick bite to eat in one of the many street food stalls and check out the local bars here that open until quite late!

Visiting the food markets are a must in the city and one of the best places to see in Copenhagen when you’re feeling hungry. 

Read more: planning your visit to Koedbyen

2.) Tivoli Gardens

No first-time visit to Copenhagen is complete without a trip to Tivoli . It’s easily one of the greatest and quaintest theme parks in all of Europe and so much fun to visit.

Said to be the inspiration behind Walt Disney World, Tivoli is a truly stunning inner-city park that’s filled with some impressive and historic rides that we totally loved during our visit. 

Hop on board the Rutschebanen Rollercoaster, a 100-year-old wooden masterpiece that weaves in and out of a (faux) snow-capped mountain. All whilst in the centre of Copenhagen .

Just be sure to book these Tivoli Garden tickets before setting foot in the city. This way, you won’t have to worry about the park reaching capacity. 

Read more: Tips when visiting Tivoli

3.) Walk the spiralled walkway of Rundetårn

For a few Euros, you can grab yourself a really great view of the city that is situated on the top of Rundetårn.

Walk the spiralled and slightly dizzying reverse-style helter-skelter walkway to the top.

Then again, there are actually no steps, just a constant and gentle incline until you reach the summit. It’s pretty epic and one of the best places to see in Copenhagen on a first trip to the city. 

Read more: Best castles in Denmark

4.) Explore Rosenborg Castle

There are lots of castles to explore in Denmark , with Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen being a top favourite.

Head here to discover a truly stunning piece of Danish history and the ornate yet beautiful artistry of the castle which embodies Danish architectural prowess at its finest.

Honestly, if you love castles, you’ll find this one of the very best places to see in Copenhagen. That being said, give it a miss if you’re not into historical spots. 

Read more: The best castles to visit in Denmark

5.) Pop to see The Little Mermaid

Loved or loathed, a fleeting trip to see the Little Mermaid should be on every first-timer’s visit to Copenhagen.

Some people (including me) feel underwhelmed when visiting (probably because it was over-hyped before they visited) but for lots of visitors, it is a photo opportunity of the city’s most famous landmarks, where you can spend 10 minutes or so viewing her statuesque pose.

Take of it what you will, but you kinda can’t miss it when visiting for the first time. 

Read more: Best things to do in Copenhagen

6.) Hop on a canal tour

There are many ways to see the city of Copenhagen, with its waterways being one of the best! Board a boat near Nyhavn harbour area and discover a whole new perspective of Copenhagen.

Top tip: Many of the boat tours also include a stop by The Little Mermaid, though the photographic perspective is not as great as seeing her from the land. It’s easily one of the best places to see in Copenhagen to see the city from a different perspective. 

7.) Grab a dog

If you’ve ever visited a Scandinavian country, you’ll have to realise that their love of hot-dogs is deep and very real. It’s not just any old sausage slapped in a 3-week old bun (served to you at a cinema), these hot-dogs are deliciously gourmet.

Hot dogs can be found in many of the market stalls or even in the central district of Copenhagen .

If you’re not ‘into’ bread buns, then that’s no problem. You can get these replaced with creamy mash or some seasonal beets, too. All served with your very own type of sausage, cooked just how you like it.

Read more: Best Scandinavian food to try

8.) Visit Den Blå Planet

Den Blå Planet (The Blue Planet) is one of the biggest aquariums in all of Europe.

Housed in an impressive building, this aquarium is an education centre that teaches the importance of protecting our oceans and the animals that live within it.

10.) Party  at Blågårdsgade

This area of Copenhagen is fun!

Filled with lots of chilled out local bars, live music venues and a buzzing atmosphere, this area is a great place to spend a Saturday evening out with friends and locals alike.

Read more: Best places in Denmark to visit

11.) Kayak the waterfront 

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and fancy something with a more of a workout than a cruise of the harbour, hop on board your very own kayak.

Kayaks can be used within certain parts of the waterways in Copenhagen and is a really unique way to get around the city. Though, nowhere near as much fun if you fall in.

12.) Stay at Kong Arthur

This is my favourite hotel in Copenhagen! It’s such a lovely hotel that has some of the nicest rooms ever.

They serve a pretty mean breakfast and even have their own (not so) secret spa that’s under the hotel itself.

Top tip: To save money, book during off-peak rates and take advantage of their free happy hour in the early evening. 

13.) Enjoy the colourful houses at Nyhavn

Every picture you’ll ever find of Copenhagen will include these colourful houses.

Take a wander around the area and enjoy some of the pretty little homes, cafes and shops that make up this part of town. It’s easily one of the best places to see in Copenhagen. 

Top tip: Prices for food here tend to be a little higher due to the volume of visitors, so take that into account if you plan on dining around here.

14.) Thorvaldsen’s Museum

Bertel Thorvaldsen is arguably one of Denmark’s most famous artists from Copenhagen.

His craftsman skills were obtained from a rather long residency in Rome (some 40 years). When he returned, he brought a wealth of artefacts, beautiful art and stunning new artistic perspectives for the city to enjoy.

Nowadays, Thorvaldsen’s Museum is like stepping back in time to see some of the very best in classical architecture.

18 Best Places In Denmark To Visit

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11 Easy Steps to Plan a Trip to Copenhagen in 2022

Do you want to plan a trip to Copenhagen but wondering where to begin? We got your back!

Before we decided to settle in Copenhagen, we’ve traveled to many places around the world. So we know how planning ahead can benefit you in many ways – you can save a lot of money on flights and hotels, plus knowing it will happen makes it possible to stay excited and look forward to the trip.

There are many things to think about when you start to plan a trip – especially if it’s your first time somewhere new. That’s why we’ve made this list for you, which will take you through 11 easy steps to plan a trip to Copenhagen.

Now let’s get planning!

Plan a trip to Copenhagen step-by-step

1. plan when you want visit copenhagen.

When planning any kind of trip, there is often a time frame involved of when it’s possible to take time off work (or other important factors) to actually make it possible to go travel. So the first thing you should do is to plan when you want to visit Copenhagen.

In our opinion, late spring is the absolute best time to enjoy Copenhagen. However, that doesn’t mean that you should skip our beautiful city if you plan on visiting during any other season. Because there is always something to see or do in Copenhagen!

Even during winter, the coffee bars are full of cozy candle lights and people sipping coffee while enjoying each other’s company. This is when you can experience real Danish “Hygge”. There is also a lot of Christmas markets all over the city during December, and even an incredible light festival in February. So don’t write off this cold and grey time of year just yet!

Anyways, your first step in the planning process should be to set your time frame of when you can actually go to Copenhagen. Decide when you think it’s possible to go on this trip, and start planning the rest.

2. Decide how long you want to stay

Now that you know when you can go to Copenhagen, then your next step should be to plan for how long you want to stay. It’s important to determine the length of your trip to Copenhagen so that you can plan the rest of the steps.

So are we talking about a weekend trip, a full week, or maybe two weeks?

When you combine step 1 (when to visit) and step 2 (how long to visit), you have already set a time frame for this trip and given yourself some possible travel dates. So now we can move on to the next step!

3. Make a budget for your trip

Copenhagen is not exactly a cheap destination to visit, so it’s important that you start to look into how much money you plan to spend on this trip.

Create an overall (or a daily) budget for your trip and evaluate whether this is realistic for Copenhagen. If it’s you first time in Copenhagen, then it can be hard to plan a budget. So read our blog post about prices in Copenhagen , if you need any help.

It’s of course your own decision whether or not you want to plan a budget, but we just want you to be prepared for the high prices. That way, you have time to save up enough money before your trip.

4. Book your flights

All right, now the fun begins! With your set time frame and your savings in hand, it’s time to start booking your trip to Copenhagen.

The first thing that we like to do is to book the flights. Once the flights are booked, you know the trip will actually happen, and you have a specific travel date to look forward to.

We always use Skyscanner.com or Momondo.com when we’re looking at flight deals. However, we often end up booking directly at the airlines’ website. Most big airlines fly to Copenhagen including Lufthansa, KLM, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Delta, and many more! If you travel from somewhere in Europe or United States, then check out Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) – an airline with many flights to and from Scandinavia.

If you live in a country close to Denmark, then you can also take the train or jump on a bus. You can easily book trains and buses from cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin, Oslo, and Stockholm.

Once you got your ticket to Copenhagen, we can move on to the next step of your planning.

5. Book your accommodation

It’s time to plan where you’re going to stay while visiting Copenhagen. It’s always a good idea to book accommodation as early as possible since the good hotels and hostels often sell out quickly.

Sometimes you can get lucky with a last-minute deal, but you may also be unlucky and only get the lesser nice (and often more expensive) hotels that are left. So we advice you to book as early as possible.

We use Booking.com. It’s our favorite platform to find accommodation, and we always use it when we go travel. It’s easy to set up an account and several bookings can give you a Genius status, which can save you money on hotels. Booking.com also price match hotels, so if you find your accommodation cheaper somewhere else, then you can claim a refund for the difference.

We would advice you to book a hotel somewhere in the city center if it’s your first time in Copenhagen. Or at least somewhere close to the metro lines – that way, you can easily get around the city.

6. Get a visa if needed

Now that you have your flight tickets and your accommodation booked, it’s pretty important that you make sure that you can actually enter the country.

You of course don’t need a tourist visa if you’re from a Schengen country – or from any other country that are exempt from tourist visas.

But make sure to check out the visa rules before your trip. I advice you to check this out as soon as possible, so you don’t find out that you need a visa at the last moment – and then you may not have enough time to get one.

Here is the official Danish website where you can find out all about visa rules and how to apply: New to Denmark

7. Buy travel insurance

Another really important step in planning a trip to Copenhagen is to look at travel insurance. You should always make sure that you have a travel insurance when you go anywhere outside of your own country – I cannot recommend this enough.

I (Cecilie) already used mine 3 times during our travels in Thailand, Bolivia, and Greece. All 3 times I got sick and needed medical help, and I was grateful to be able to just call my travel insurance and have them help me out.

So check up on your travel insurance before your trip. If you have already left your country before you buy travel insurance, then you may not be covered. The rules are of course different from company to company, but please make sure you’re fully covered if anything happens to you on your trip.

8. Plan activities & things to do

All right, let’s move on to the most fun part of planning a trip to Copenhagen! In this step, you’re done with the heavy planning, and you need to start looking forward to all the things you want to see and do.

Copenhagen is full of attractions and activities. Did you for example know that there are several palaces that you can visit during your trip? Or that one of the World’s oldest functioning amusement parks are located in the heart of the city? Or maybe you can’t wait to visit one of the many museums and learn about Danish design, art, or history? It’s your choice!

If you don’t know where to start planning your activities, then check out this blog post: 35 things to do in Copenhagen – hopefully we can inspire you.

9. Get a Copenhagen Card

If you’ve already planned a few things to do in Copenhagen, then it’s worth looking into getting the Copenhagen Card.

The Copenhagen Card gives you free access to 89 attractions all over the city such as Tivoli Gardens, The Round Tower, Rosenborg Castle, the National Museum of Denmark, a canal tour, the zoo, and many many many other attractions.

On top of that, you can use the public transportation in Copenhagen for free! Read more about how to get around with public transportation here .

Last but not least, one adult can bring 2 children up to 11 years old with them for free! Children between 3-11 years old just need to hold their own Copenhagen cards – but they are free to get.

The price on the Copenhagen Card depends on the amount of time you need it for. Below is a timetable of the prices in 2022:

10. Start packing

So you’ve planned most of your trip to Copenhagen by now, but you still need to decide on what to put in the suitcase. During this step, we’ll quickly guide you through what to pack for a trip to Copenhagen.

While there is no need for us to remind you to bring your passport (come on, that should already be on the top of your list), we do know that it can be hard to decide on what clothes to pack.

During winter in Copenhagen you really need to dress yourself in warm clothes if want to enjoy being outside. That means a warm jacket, appropriate shoes for winter, gloves, a scarf, and a hat. The temperature is often around 0 degrees celcius, but it’s the cold wind that often gets to you. So dress yourself in some warm clothes!

During spring in Copenhagen, you need to dress in layers. While the mornings and evenings can be really cold, the temperature often goes up to a comfortable degree during the day. However, the spring can also be really wet, so make sure to bring both your sunglasses and your rain jacket.

During summer you don’t need anything but light clothes: Shorts, dresses, light jackets, sandals, sneakers, sunglasses, and such. The weather is very comfortable during the summer, and you often don’t need to wear a jacket. Remember to bring your swimsuit if you plan to go for a dip in one of the many harbour baths in Copenhagen.

During fall, you should pack like during spring – There are both beautiful sunny days and grey rainy days.

11. Enjoy Copenhagen!

The final step in this guide on how to plan a trip to Copenhagen is pretty easy – it’s for you to go and enjoy our lovely city! Copenhagen has so much to offer, and we hope you will have an amazing time exploring the beautiful capital of Denmark.

And don’t hesitate to ask us questions in the comment section below. We’ll gladly answer any planning questions you may have – at least we promise to do our best. Enjoy your trip!

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13 things to know before going to Copenhagen: get a local's perspective

Jan 23, 2024 • 5 min read

From safety to favorite local hangouts, here's what you should know before you visit Copenhagen © iStockphoto / Getty Images

I was born and bred in Copenhagen , and have lived here for most of my life (apart from some years spent in Berlin and New York City). This is my home and I could navigate the city with my eyes closed.

Living abroad allowed me to reflect on Danish culture and what makes Copenhagen unique. For example, the widespread bike culture, which was part of my everyday life and something I considered to be completely normal until I lived elsewhere.

Before you go to Copenhagen, here are the 13 top things that you need to know.

1. The metro is the cheapest way to get from the airport 

Copenhagen’s efficient driverless metro runs directly from the airport to the city center in less than 15 minutes, making it the most obvious transportation choice when you arrive at Copenhagen Airport. A metro ticket will cost you 34kr. 

2. You can see the best of Copenhagen in three days

Copenhagen is a small city with short distances between the sights. Plan efficiently and you could get to know the Danish capital  in just three days. However, if you want to explore Copenhagen in a more local and authentic way, you can easily spend more time in the area, visiting other nearby cities such as Helsingør for Kronborg Castle (Elsinore Castle in Shakespeare’s Hamlet ) or the world-famous modern art museum, Louisiana in Humlebæk.

3. Blend in by wearing Scandinavian designs

Scandinavia is known worldwide for its fashion. From giant names including H&M, &Other Stories and Cos, to the smaller but super-trendy brands such as Ganni, Samsøe Samsøe and Rains, there are many stores to choose from. Wear your Scandinavian fashion pieces to blend in with the locals. Also, make sure you bring weather-appropriate outfits, including a waterproof jacket.

4. Copenhagen doesn’t have to be super expensive

Copenhagen isn't generally considered to be a cheap destination, but there are lots of different ways to visit the city on a budget . From touring museums and art centers to relaxing in gardens and wandering through cool neighborhoods, there are even things you can do that are completely free . 

5. Danes eat everything with a knife and fork

Danes love their knife and fork and will eat everything with them, even a burger and a pizza, which can be quite amusing to foreigners. Feel free to use your hands if eating a burger with cutlery seems too awkward for you. When it comes to dining etiquette and table manners, Danes are taught from a young age to follow certain rules – like not putting your elbows on the table and the way to place the knife and fork to signal to waiting staff that they are done eating. 

6. Only tourists hang out in Nyhavn

While Nyhavn, with its colorful, fairy-tale houses, is one of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions, locals usually don't hang out here. However, paying Nyhavn a visit, taking a picture and enjoying the scenery is still a must. If you want to dedicate a little more time here, skip the touristy restaurants and have a coffee or beer while sitting on the side of the canals where the ships dock. You can also enjoy a break in the courtyard of Apollo .

7. Always take a sip after toasting

Danes love to toast during dinners and do it a bunch of times throughout a meal in good company, particularly when drinking alcohol. When toasting, say Skål! (“cheers” in Danish), and make sure you take a sip of your drink before putting your glass back down.

8. Danes are usually very relaxed…

Too relaxed, some would say. This behavior is linked to Danish humor which tends to be very “dark,” ironic and satirical, and it also means that Danes have a very casual approach towards swearing. The f-word is not considered harsh the same way as in other countries and is used in many ways in the Danish language when speaking informally between friends simply to emphasize specific points.

9. …except when it comes to timeliness

Punctuality is a cornerstone in Danish culture. Some Danes even believe that showing up on time means being a few minutes early. This is closely tied to the culture of Danish politeness of not wasting each other’s time. This means that if you’re meeting up with a Dane and you’re very late (by more than 15 minutes), they might tell you that everything is fine, but in reality they consider it rude. 

10. Biking is serious business

Bikes outnumber cars in Copenhagen and you will likely be wowed by the biking culture. If you truly want to blend in, you hop on a bike to take you from A to B. However, there are some important bike rules to follow if you don’t want to anger your fellow riders. Keep in mind that cycling is, for locals, primarily a mode of transportation and not something they are doing for fun. In general, stay off the bigger bike lanes during rush hour (7:15–8:45am and 3:30–5pm). Always stay to the far right of the bike lane. Signal ahead of time by putting your left hand in the air if you break, and use your arms to indicate when you are making a turn. 

11. Drink the tap water

The water in Copenhagen (and Denmark) is so clean that residents swim in the city harbor all year round, and have access to some of the best drinking water in the world – straight from the tap. To help reduce plastic waste and save some money, bring a reusable water bottle with you and fill it up at your accommodation or at one of the city's free drinking fountains .

12. Copenhagen is the safest city in the world

In 2021, the Economist's Safe Cities Index named Copenhagen as the safest city in the world due to the low crime rates and a high level of trust among people, which is an important part of Danish culture. While you can always be in the wrong spot at the wrong time, there is generally no need to worry about your safety in Copenhagen. As with anywhere else, take sensible precautions such as not flaunting your wallet or valuables in public. 

13. The emergency number is 112

If anything were to happen on your trip to Copenhagen, 112 is the emergency number that will connect you to the police, fire and ambulance services. 

This article was first published August 2022 and updated January 2024

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Home » Europe » Denmark » Copenhagen

16 BEST Places to Visit in Copenhagen (2024)

As soon as you step foot in Copenhagen, you’ll see immediately why it’s considered the happiest city in the world.

Maybe it’s the plethora of outdoor spaces where people can soak in the fresh air and spend time in the lakes, mountains, and parks. Perhaps it’s the historical landmarks, like the royal castles and stone fortresses that give character to the tree-lined city streets. Or, it’s merely the laid-back atmosphere and sense of contentment that you see on faces of the locals.

Whatever it is, Copenhagen is doing it right. Danes are some of the happiest people in the world – and why would they not be? They live in a city that is overflowing with activities day and night while also remaining peaceful and cozy. And if you’re planning a trip to Copenhagen, you’re making a smart decision! During your visit to this prosperous city, you too can experience life in Copenhagen like a local.

With our curated list of places to visit in Copenhagen, you can explore what the Danish lifestyle is all about. Wander through thousands of years of history, shop for the trendiest souvenirs, and dine on some of the best dishes in Northern Europe. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or staying for the whole summer, you’ll love spending time here in Copenhagen!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Copenhagen:

These are the best places to visit in copenhagen, faq on the best places to visit in copenhagen.

Indre By is the historic centre of Copenhagen. The Danish capital’s “Inner City,” Indre By is home to a maze of cobblestone streets, charming squares and wonderful museums.

• Shop until you drop on Strøget, a lively pedestrian street that’s home to everything from high-end designers to high street fashions.
• Explore the country’s rich history at the National Museum of Denmark.
• Dine on creative and delicious Copenhagen cuisine at Restaurant Krebsegaarden.

Before you take a tour down this list and soak up all the happy chemicals this city has to offer, check out where to stay in Copenhagen first. That way, you’ll have a place to stay and relax at the end of your days exploring all lined up next to your favourite attractions.

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#1 – Tivoli Gardens – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Copenhagen!

• Tivoli gardens is the second oldest theme park in the world
• Rides, events, and shows make it one of the top attractions in Copenhagen
• Fun for kids and adults of all ages
• Tivoli gardens was the inspiration for Disneyland

Why it’s awesome: Filled with excitement and adventure around every corner, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens is thrilling amusement for the whole family. Built in 1843, it’s the world’s second-oldest amusement park. And with 4.6 million visitors each year, Tivoli Gardens is the go-to destination in Europe for rides, concerts, games, and good old fashion fair food. It even served as the inspiration and model for Walt Disney’s Disneyland!

What to do there: We hope you’re ready for an action-packed day, because there are plenty of activities to do in Tivoli Gardens. There are dozens of rides for adults and kids, but nothing as thrilling as Rutschebanen, and the 1914 wooden roller coaster. But besides rides, visitors can also watch free pantomime shows, listen to live music and wander through the on-site aquarium.

Tivoli Gardens also hosts a variety of events and concerts, including ballet shows, jazz festivals, and even marching band performances.

Some of Copenhagen’s loveliest Airbnbs are located close by to Tivoli Gardens too!

#2 – Strøget

• One of the longest and most influential pedestrian shopping malls
• Shops, boutiques, and stores galore in the heart of Old Town.
• Tons of restaurants and cafes in old town hall square.
• Central to Copenhagen’s main attractions

Why it’s awesome: Copenhagen’s most popular shopping destination runs down Strøget. Running over 1.1km through the city centre, it’s one of the largest pedestrianised malls around! Here, you’ll find a wealth of shops, especially high-end luxury brands. But most impressively, Strøget’s pedestrianisation in 1962 was influential to Copenhagen’s culture and led to further pedestrian-only access around the Old Town. This concept spread beyond Copenhagen! Pedestrian and bicycle-only access is an approach that has been adopted around the world.

What to do there: If you’re on a budget as Copenhagen can be expensive , then you’re best to window shop in this area. If you have deep pockets, you’ll have plenty of options to spend that money on; from international clothing brands to Danish design pop-ups, but that’s not all! There are tons of restaurants, bars, and cafes where you need a quick bite to eat. It’s right in the heart of central Copenhagen so it’s easy to visit.

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#3 – Nyhavn – A beautiful and scenic place to see in Copenhagen!

• 17th-century neighbourhood in the heart of Old Town.
• Vibrant, colourful homes and antique wooden boats in central Copenhagen.
• Somewhere you’ve got to see when you visit Copenhagen
• See the home of Hans Christian Andersen

Why it’s awesome: You’ll feel as if you’ve transported back to the 17th century when you stroll through the waterfront district of Nyhavn. Lined with brightly coloured houses and shops, Nyhavn is a laid-back destination for an afternoon visit and one of the top things to do in Copenhagen . It’s one of the city’s iconic sights for a reason and a real focal point for visitors.

You can still spot the old wooden ships bobbing in the harbour, many of which were built between the 1800s and 1900s. Whether you’re coming to walk the canal promenade, or stopping by after visiting the Veteran Ship Museum, you’ll enjoy a few hours in the quaint Nyhavn neighbourhood!

What to do there: Grab a cup of coffee or a mid-morning brunch at one of the charming cafes in the area. You might be able to snag a window seat with harbour views! But if you can’t, you should still stroll through the waterfront admiring the old wooden ships that still float in the canal. It’s a real highlight of any Copenhagen sightseeing trip! You can even take a canal tour if you like!

Don’t forget to stop by the houses marked 18, 20 and 67. There were the different residences of author Hans Christian Andersen from 1845 and 1864. Try to visit early as it’s one of the top attractions in Copenhagen and get busy!

#4 – Nationalmuseet (National Museum of Denmark)

• Located near Strøget street
• Explore 14,000 years of Danish History
• Exhibits on international archeology and art as well
• Learn about Viking history

Why it’s awesome: Filled with artefacts, items, and documents, the National Museum of Denmark will take you through centuries of Danish history. Fourteen thousand years of history to be exact! Dedicated to the natural science, conservation, and archaeology of the country, you could easily spend an entire day wandering through these fascinating exhibitions and rooms.

What to do there: Explore ancient relics from the Viking and Ice Age, admire religious artwork from the middle ages, and learn about the Danish daily life of today. But Danish history isn’t the only thing on display in the museum.

There is also an extensive collection of Greek, Italian, Egyptian, and Near East objects. The highlight of the museum is the Golden Horns, where are reconstructed sculptures modelled after the 400AD Iron Age horns that were excavated. And don’t miss the Chariot of the Sun, a bronze-age disc that depicts the sun being pulled across the sky by a chariot horse.

#5 – Copenhagen Botanical Garden – One of the nicer places in Copenhagen to site see!

• Over 13,000 species of plants
• 27 glasshouses – some are from the mid-1800s
• orchids, cacti, medicinal, and rose plants
• Visit the on-site seed bank

Why it’s awesome: Covering 10 hectares, the Copenhagen Botanical Garden is a blissful escape from the bustling metropolis of the city. Maybe you’re a fan of botany, or perhaps you simply like to walk around a blooming garden. But either way, you’ll love admiring the lush, vibrant in the Copenhagen Botanical Garden. And besides flowers, the garden is known for its historical glasshouses, many of which date back almost 200 years! And best of all, the garden is entirely free to enter and visit.

What to do there: With over 13,000 species of plants, flowers, and trees, the Copenhagen Botanical Garden has something blooming around every corner. The garden is divided into different sections and includes exhibits on Danish plants, perennial plants, and annual plants. But besides the plants, the garden is also home to 27 gorgeous glasshouses.

Visit the Palm House, which at 3,000 square meters large, contains a variety of exotic plants. And, don’t miss visits to the air-conditioned glasshouse, which re-creates a suitable temperature for arctic species, and the cacti and succulent glasshouse.

#6 – Rosenborg Castle

• 17th-century Renaissance castle
• Built by Christian IV
• See royal artefacts like thrones, gemstones, and silver
• Walk the beautiful outdoor gardens

Why it’s awesome: For a taste of luxury, stop by Rosenborg Castle, one of the most famous places to visit in Copenhagen. Built-in the 1600s as Christian IV’s summer palace, the castle is now a stunning example of Dutch Renaissance architecture. While the stone exterior of the building is a sight to see on its own, it’s what lies inside that is truly memorising.

What to do there: As you tour the castle, there are several distinct places that you cannot miss. First is the long hall, which was initially used as a ballroom and royal reception room. At the end of the hall is the regal, coronation chair, where many of the country’s kings and queens would sit and reign. A visit to the castle also includes entrance to the Rosenborg Collections, a museum of artefacts and objects from Danish royal history.

Many of the items belonged to the kings and queens themselves, including 17th-century Venetian glass, dinnerware, and even the crown jewels! Afterwards, you can rest in the Rosenborg Castle Gardens, Denmark’s largest and oldest garden. Even though the Danish royal family no longer live here, you’ll still feel the stately vibes from this popular tourist attraction.

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#7 – Superkilen Park – Quite the quirky place in Copenhagen!

• Urban park development
• Ethnically and culturally diverse park
• Walk a brightly paved pink path!
• Have a BBQ or meet with friends in the Black Market

Why it’s awesome: Step inside a world of urban, artistic development by visiting Superkilen Park in the diverse Nørrebro neighbourhood. Spanning 30,000 square meters, Superkilen is comprised of three different areas, each one representing a different theme and colour. But besides the large-scale designs, the park is filled with foreign influence. The benches, street lamps, fountains, and even signs have been collected from over 50 different countries.

What to do there: Depending on what outdoor activities spark your interest, there are a ton of things to do in the artistic centre of Superkilen. First, you have the red square, most notable for its shockingly neon pink public walkway. Next is The Green Park, a lush park filled with rolling hills and picnic areas. Finally, there is the Black Market, an area made with dark, black asphalt and most commonly used as the public gathering centre of Superkilen.

And while you walk through the three colourful regions, you’ll be able to pick out the different artefacts that were curated from dozens of different countries. Try and find the English trash bins, the Moroccan water fountains, and the French utility hole covers!

#8 – Freetown Christiania

• Liberal and progressive lifestyle
• Yoga and meditation studios
• Open Marijuana shops
• One of the most unique places!

Why it’s awesome: For one of the most unusual things to put on your Copenhagen itinerary , venture over to the small commune of Freetown Christiania. Created within a deserted 1970s military zone, Freetown Christiania is now home to around 850 residents and is a symbol of a progressive and liberal Danish lifestyle. Meditation, farming, and yoga are just a few of Freetown Christiania’s favourite activities. The locals have even created their own set of rules (separate from the federal governments)!

What to do there: One of the main attractions for tourists in Freetown Christiania is Pusher Street. Here, hash and marijuana are sold from many shop stalls and stands. And while weed is not technically legal, marijuana sales have been openly allowed by the Danish Government for the past 15 years. As the fourth most popular attraction in Copenhagen, Freetown Christiania is a slice of alternative, liberal, and laid-back paradise that cannot be found anywhere else in the world! This is a must for backpacking Copenhagen .

#9 – Bakken Amusement Park – Awesome place to visit in Copenhagen with kids!

• The oldest amusement park in the entire world!
• Started as a destination for clean water in the 1500s
• Dozens of rides and roller coasters
• Completely free to enter.

Why it’s awesome: Often overlooked for the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, Bakken Amusement Park is still overflowing with thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and mouth-watering snacks. And at 550 years old, it’s the oldest amusement park in the entire world! Back then, the grounds were discovered and made famous for their fresh spring water source. Inevitably, this attracted large crowds and soon, entertainers and shopkeepers. And over time, Bakken became a popular spot for cabaret shows, circuses, and theme park rides. Now, it’s a bustling attraction that is entirely free to enter!

What to do there: If you’re looking for an exciting day of fun, then Bakken Amusement Park is for you! There are six large-scale roller coasters, several dozen carnival rides, and a handful of live shows. But don’t skip a ride on the Rutschebanen, a 1932 wooden rollercoaster that’s guaranteed to make your heart race! And when you get hungry, you’ll have a variety of dining choices, from classic street food stalls to upscale buffets and gourmet restaurants.

#10 – Rundetårn (Round Tower)

• 17th century observation tower in town hall square.
• Built without stairs – only a winding ramp to the top
• Sweeping views from the observation deck
• On-site observatory in a central location

Why it’s awesome: Have you ever climbed all the way to the top of a tall tower…without using the stairs? Well, you can during your visit to the historic Rundetårn! Directly translated to the round tower, the Rundetårn was built by Christian IV in the 17th-century and remained one of Copenhagen’s most unusual landmarks.

Standing 34-meters high, the top of the Rundetårn can be reached by a long spiral ramp that winds through the centre of the tower. While stairs may seem like the more practical option, the choice for a ramp is relatively straightforward. It made bringing heavy and fragile equipment to the top of the tower easier! It’s a really unique and interesting place to see when you visit Copenhagen.

What to do there: If you’re willing to walk the 210-meter spiralling ramp to the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city from the observation deck. The deck sits high above the rooftops of the city, which means you’ll have unparalleled views of Rosenborg Castle, the Marble Church, Christiansborg Palace, and Copenhagen City Hall and town hall square. You may even be able to spot the hostel you are staying in !

The Rundetårn is also the site of an observatory, where budding astronomers and general visitors can gaze into the bright, starry night sky. It’s one of the top attractions in Copenhagen for views.

#11 – Church of our Saviour – One of Copenhagen’s coolest historical sites!

• Winding gold and black spire
• A stunning, ornate altarpiece
• 1920s concert Carillion
• Voted best views in all of Copenhagen!

Why it’s awesome: With its golden spire and singing bell tower, the Church of our Saviour is an impressive Dutch Baroque church from the 16th and 17th-centuries. Marked by its vibrant, red and yellow tiles and towering helix spire, it’s one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the entire city. And most importantly, the views from the top of the spire are outstanding, and were even voted the best views in all of Copenhagen by local residents!

What to do there: Admiring the church and spire from the outside is a must. The external, winding staircase that leads to 90-meters to the top is ornately decorated in a black and gold coat of paint. The church is also known for its Carillion, or bell towers, which is the most extensive system in all of Northern Europe. And on the inside, the altarpiece is also a beautiful masterpiece. The rose, gold, and blue curves depict a scene from the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus is being comforted by several, large marble angels.

#12 – Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

• Sculpture art museum
• Antique and modern exhibits
• Come to a classical concert day!
• Thousands of paintings as well

Why it’s awesome: Art lovers will enjoy a relaxing visit to Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum with some of the most impressive sculptures and statues in the country. With over 10,000 works of art, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek contains Egyptian, Greek, Roman, French, and Danish sculpture exhibits. And if you happen to visit during an event day, you’ll have the opportunity to see the auditorium, which is often used for classical concerts and performances.

What to do there: As you explore the gardens and rooms in the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, you can’t miss the following fan favourites. The Hall of Roman figures depicts larger than life Roman gods and emperors. The Egyptian collection contains 2,000 pieces of ancient artefacts, like mummies! And while the main focus of the museum is on the sculptures, there is also an extensive painting collection. You’ll find French Impressionist, Danish Golden Age, and Post-Impressionist pieces in the museum.

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#13 – Amager Strandpark – One of the most underrated places to see in Copenhagen!

• Located on the artificial Amager Island
• Outdoor activities for the whole family
• Kayaking, swimming, picnicking, skateboarding
• On-site swimming pool

Why it’s awesome: When you need a break from the city centre, head to Amager Strandpark, Copenhagen’s blissful beach! Located on the artificial island of Amager, this 2-kilometre long beach park is full of fun, outdoor activities. One side of the island is scattered with white, sandy dunes, and is the perfect spot for relaxing or sunbathing. The other side is a shallow lagoon, where you’ll find plenty of families and leisurely swimmings enjoying the warm waters. Just be prepared for the water to be a little chilly. After all, you are in Denmark!

What to do there: There are tons of fun activities to participate in on Amager Strandpark. It’s the perfect destination for running and walking, as several trails lead around the island. You’ll also find kitesurfers and kayakers in the water, cruising around the lagoons in the early spring and summer. And when the heat sets in, you can take a dip in the water. The shallow pools and waves make it an ideal spot for families and swimmers!

Wonder how to spend your weekend in Copenhagen? Head over to our insider’s Weekend in Copenhagen guide!

#14 – Carlsberg Brewery – Cool place to see in Copenhagen with friends!

• Headquarters for Carlsberg beer
• Take a guided tour or eat at the restaurant
• Visit the beautiful sculpture garden
• Try Carlsberg beer, straight from the tap!

Why it’s awesome: While Copenhagen might not be known for its beer, the city is still home to one of the most popular breweries in the world. At Carlsberg Brewery, you can explore the headquarters and first location of this detectible Danish brewing company. Founded in 1847, the brewery produces the classic pilsner, a special brew strong lager, and even an Elephant beer! If you’re a beer fanatic, or simply craving something refreshing during your trip to Copenhagen, don’t forget to visit the Carlsberg Brewery!

What to do there: To really see the workings of a real brewery, try to score tickets with a guided tour. Here, you can learn about the history of the beer and even enjoy a few samples at the end! The brewery is also home to the largest unopened beer collection in the world, with 22,000 bottles stacked from floor to ceiling. And when you feel like venturing outside, you can walk through the on-site sculpture garden, which displays some of .C. Jacobson’s (Carlberg’s founder) private art collection, and the stable, home to several furry and friendly Carlsberg horses!

#15 – Torvehallerne Market – A must-see for foodies!

• Dozens of delicious food stalls and booths
• Try local Danish dishes
• Shop for culinary souvenirs
• Sample fresh produce and locally sourced ingredients

Why it’s awesome: No vacation would be complete without sampling some of the local and delicious delicacies! At Torvehallerne Market, you can find all sorts of Danish and international specialities. Situated inside two large, glass halls, the market is the perfect destination for a late-morning breakfast or brunch. There are over 60 different stalls serving everything from fresh produce and aromatic spices to juicy meats and gourmet desserts.

What to do there: Come hungry, because you’ll want to eat, eat, eat at Torvehallerne Market! For those who are eager to sample some Danish cuisine, try an open-faced smørrebrød sandwich with your favourite deli toppings. Or, taste the fresh and crispy fried fiskefrikadelle, or fish cake. And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, you can pick it up at Tovehallerne Market. They sell packable chocolates, teas, wines, and spices to take back home!

#16 – Copenhagen Opera House

• National opera house of Denmark
• Located opposite the main castle Amalienborg
• Buy tickets for an upcoming concert
• Explore the surrounding areas

Why it’s awesome: Nestled right on the banks of Holmen Island, the Copenhagen Opera House is one of the most famous places to see in Copenhagen. Not only is the modern architecture equipped with the latest theatrical advancements, but it’s also one of the most expensive theatres in the world, costing over $500 million to build. With one main stage and five smaller auditoriums, it can seat up to 1,700 guests and aims to provide world-class views from every angle in the house.

What to do there: The best way to see the opera house is by watching a performance or show from the audience. Whether you’re listening to a symphonic concert or watching a live ballet performance, you’ll be able to see the magic of the theatre how they were meant to be seen. But if you are in Copenhagen during the off-season, don’t worry! You can still book a tour of the auditoriums and even the backstage rooms of the opera house!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Copenhagen

What is Copenhagen best known for?

Copenhagen is known for its canals and being home to Hans C. Andersen. It’s also one of the happiest cities in the world and looks like a fairytale town.

What places to visit in Copenhagen should you not miss?

Tivoli Gardens, Nationalmuseet and Rosenborg Castle are three places you should defintely make sure you visit in Copenhagen.

Is two days enough time to see Copenhagen?

Because Copenhagen is a small walking city, I would say that two days is enough to see all the main attractions. However, you could easily spend more time there and not get bored.

Is Copenhagen worth visiting?

Copenhagen is not a big city but it is cute and unique, which is why I would consider it worth a visit.

We hope this list gives you an overview of what amazing things there are to see and do in Copenhagen. From the second you hop off the plane, you’ll have a variety of activities and experiences at your fingertips! Although Copenhagen is safe (and you follow additional safety guidelines recommended for travellers !) there is a danger of overspending here. We want you to be aware that the city isn’t the cheapest, especially if you don’t plan ahead and set up the right travel budget.

History and architecture buffs can explore the historic landmarks and even a Royal Palace or two scattered throughout the city. Art lovers will enjoy the vast variety of museums, from ancient paintings to contemporary sculptures. And outdoor enthusiasts will love the lush, green parks and gardens where they can escape the bustle of city life.

But most of all, we hope you get the opportunity to live a bit more like the locals in Denmark when you’re exploring the amazing Copenhagen sights. With a passion for culture, and thirst for travel, and a friendly, open mind, you too can be as happy as the people of Denmark!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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• The official guide to Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Beyond
• Copenhagen Card
• See & do
• Eat & drink

Boat tours and boat rentals

Experience the city from the water side.

Copenhagen is an old harbour and maritime city, and one of the most beautiful and enjoyable ways to see it, is from a boat sailing down its charming canals. Take a traditional canal tour boat or a romantic gondola, be the captain of your own solar energy-driven boat , be adventurous in a kayak , or go fishing. The possibilities on water are endless.

If you're in the mood for more, check out this guide on 9 ways to conquer Copenhagen's waters . 

Kayak Republic

Explore Copenhagen from a new angle with kayak tours and kayak rental from Kayak Republic.

GoBoat Copenhagen

An eco-friendly and fun way to cruise Copenhagen's canals as the captain of your own ship.

Borrow a kayak for free and help keep Copenhagen’s waters clean, while you explore the harbour.

FriendShips

Be the captain for the day in an electric boat on the canals of Copenhagen.

Hey Captain Copenhagen Canal Tour

Book your own captain for a small group tour of the canals.

Classic Canal Tour

Canal Tours Copenhagen is a wonderful way of seeing Copenhagen. Many Copenhageners take the tour to get an opportunity to see their capital from a different perspective.

The Netto Boats

Large group boat tour with multilingual commentary.

Looking for more inspiration?

Check out these guides.

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