Disclaimer: all photos are mine unless specified, please request permission before using them.
Occasionally I take trips that don't involve dirtbag activities and allow me to shower daily - my recent trip to Copenhagen was one of these trips!
My husband had a conference taking place in the city and I was able to join him for this trip; but while he was busy getting to know the conference room, I got to enjoy some sunny days in the city. Even though his expenses were mostly taken care of, this was still a pricy trip and Copenhagen makes Dublin look inexpensive in comparison.
If you're visiting the city, it is possible to balance out the costly activities (eating at restaurants) with some more affordable options. The itinerary below aims to provide that balance, plus I include some additional suggestions if you're in the city a bit longer or if you want to replace some activities. Copenhagen is a city that blends historic charm with modern design, and hopefully you get to experience it all.
In general, this 3-day itinerary will take you through the must-see sights, hidden gems, and delicious eats that Copenhagen has to offer. Following the itinerary, I also provide some additional tips and suggestions about visiting the city.
Day 1: Royal Views and Urban Kayaking
Start your day with a caffeine kick and a stunning view at Original Coffee on top of Illum (take the escalators all the way to the top).
After you have fueled up for some exploration, head to the meeting spot for the free Grand Tour walking tour at 10:30 am. This is a great way to get oriented and learn about the city's rich history. This tour stops off at Nyhavn, which you have likely seen from all of the photos of Copenhagen. The crowds will be bustling, but if you're on an early morning run, you might want to pass by here at that time!
Grab a souvenir from Copenhagen Vibes near the palace while you wait for the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at 2 pm.
Dive into Danish design at the Design Museum, showcasing everything from furniture to fashion.
End your day with a unique experience at Kayak Bar. Mingle with locals, or take a kayak out for a scenic paddle adventure on the harbor. Bonus tip: if you want to paddle for free, look out for the green kayaks throughout the canals. This is part of the GreenKayak initiative, you borrow a kayak while helping keep the waters clean!
Day 2: Shopping Spree and Canals
Unleash your inner shopaholic on Strøget and Købmagergade, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe. Don't forget to explore the side streets for hidden vintage treasures – check out OSV Secondhand, Jerome Vintage, Magnolias, and Time's Up Vintage.
Join the free Classic Walking Tour at noon, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Your tour ends perfectly at TorvehallerneKBH, a massive food hall bursting with culinary delights from around the world. Take some time for lunch here.
Delve into the charming neighbourhood of Christianshavn on a 3 pm tour. Explore the canals, colorful houses, and unique history.
After the tour, wander around the Freetown of Christiana, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood with a distinct atmosphere. Grab a coffee, a bite to eat, or enjoy some live music (especially on weekends).
Day 3: Mermaids, Markets & Urban Adventures
Explore the iconic Little Mermaid statue and learn about Copenhagen's beautiful harbor on the free Little Mermaid and Harbour Tour on Fridays at 11 am. Please note, as of writing, this tour currently ONLY runs on Fridays, so make adjustments as needed.
Take a water taxi (Havnebussen Ferry) across the water to Islands Brygge, a trendy area with a cool vibe. From there, walk or rent a bike to explore the vibrant Reffen Market, a street food paradise with an industrial backdrop.
Feeling pampered? Treat yourself to some relaxation at the nearby Glaecier ApS spa.
Feeling adventurous? Gear up for some urban skiing or climbing at CopenHill, an artificial ski slope with a climbing wall. Reservations are a must, so plan ahead!
And if you’re a certified lead climber, check out CopenHill’s 85m multi pitch wall.
End your day in style at La Banchina, a waterfront bar and restaurant with stunning sunset views. Enjoy delicious tapas, refreshing drinks, and maybe even a dip in the harbour!
Note: The photo of the Little Mermaid was taken by me, but belongs to the Eriksson family until 2030.
Bonus Ideas for Extra Days or Flexible Scheduling:
Step back in time at Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest amusement park in the world. Head there around 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays to avoid crowds (and buy tickets online to save time!). If you're able to stay up for the fireworks, they go off around 11:30pm during the summertime (check the time depending when you're visiting).
Immerse yourself in history at the Rosenborg Castle, stroll through the picturesque King's Garden, or explore the diverse plant life at the Botanical Gardens.
Take a walk on the wild side at Superkilen, a unique urban park designed with community input.
Explore the artistic streets of Jægersborggade or Værnedamsvej, the latter nicknamed "Little Paris."
Keep an eye out for the adorable wooden trolls hidden throughout the city!
Foodies, take note: Copenhagen boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants. Make sure to book your reservations well in advance!
Rainy Day? Here are some museum suggestions:
National Museum of Denmark:This museum houses a vast collection of Danish history and culture, from prehistoric times to the present day. You can see Viking artifacts, mummies, and furniture from different eras.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek:This museum is home to an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, as well as French Impressionist and Danish Golden Age art.
Designmuseum Danmark: Briefly mentioned above, this museum is dedicated to Danish design, from furniture and fashion to architecture and industrial design.
Thorvaldsens Museum:This museum is dedicated to the works of Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen, who is best known for his neoclassical sculptures.
SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst:This museum houses a collection of Danish and international art, from the 14th century to the present day.
Museum of Copenhagen:This museum tells the story of Copenhagen, from its Viking origins to the modern day.
ARKEN Museum of Modern Art:This museum is located just outside of Copenhagen and houses a collection of modern and contemporary art.
Ordrupgaard:This museum is located in a beautiful villa and houses a collection of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
The David Collection:This museum houses a collection of Islamic art and European decorative arts.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art:This museum is located just north of Copenhagen and houses a collection of modern and contemporary art. It's known for its beautiful setting on the coast.
This is just a small selection of the many museums Copenhagen has to offer. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find a museum that interests you.
General Tips:
Currency & Payment: Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK). The consistent rule is that 7 DKK = 1 EUR. While most places accept credit cards and mobile payment, carrying some cash can be handy for smaller purchases or hot dog stands. Tipping is not expected in Copenhagen. The free walking tours I reference above don't require any payment, but these guides do a great job so try and leave a tip for them! Most seem to take card payments now, but cash is always easier.
Getting Around: Copenhagen is a very walkable city, and many sights are within easy reach of each other. Biking is another fantastic way to explore, and the city has a well-developed cycling infrastructure. The metro system is also efficient and easy to navigate. Purchase a Copenhagen Card for discounted entry to attractions and free public transportation. You can also download ride share apps to hop onto the bikes scattered across the city. Popular ride shares include: TIER, Bolt, Donkey Republic, Lime. The e-bikes will be a bit more expensive but faster if you are covering a lot of distance. Donkey Republic bikes are not e-bikes.
Language: Danish is the official language, but most locals speak English fluently. Learning a few basic Danish phrases like "Hej" (Hi), "Tak" (Thank you), and "Undskyld" (Excuse me) is always appreciated.
Etiquette:
Danes are known for their relaxed and casual attitude. You won't need to worry about dressing up for most restaurants or attractions.
Queues are a way of life in Copenhagen. Be patient and wait your turn politely.
Sustainability is a big priority in Copenhagen. Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to reduce waste. There are fountains across the city to fill up your bottle.
Specific Recommendations:
Tivoli Gardens: While it's an amusement park, pack comfortable shoes for all the walking you'll do. Consider bringing snacks if you're on a budget, as food can be pricey inside.
Reffen Market: Come hungry! There's a wide variety of food options, from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
CopenHill: This is a unique experience, but be sure to dress warmly for the artificial ski slope, especially in colder months.
Hidden Gems:
Assistens Kirkegård: This atmospheric cemetery is the final resting place of famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen. It's a peaceful spot for a stroll.
Nyhavn: This colorful harbor area is a must-see, but be prepared for crowds and tourist prices. Explore the side streets for a more local vibe.
Gråbrødretorv: This lively square is a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere. There are often street performers and outdoor cafes.
This itinerary is just a starting point – Copenhagen has so much to offer that you can easily personalize it to suit your interests. Embrace the Danish concept of "hygge" (coziness and togetherness) and enjoy your exploration of this delightful city!
If there's anything I missed that should be included in this itinerary, feel free to let me know. If you used this for your trip, I'd love to hear how your trip went!
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