Copenhagen Travel Guide

Duration

3 - 4 Days

Best Visit Dates

Summer

Currency

Danish Krone (DKK)

Local Language

Danish

Copenhagen: Experience the Charm of Denmarkโ€™s Capital City

Copenhagen, Denmarkโ€™s capital, is renowned for its charming canals, historic landmarks, and cutting-edge design. Key attractions include the Tivoli Gardens, the colorful Nyhavn district, and the historic Rosenborg Castle. The cityโ€™s focus on sustainability and its vibrant culinary scene, including renowned restaurants like Noma, offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Copenhagenโ€™s friendly atmosphere and picturesque settings make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Scandinavia.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Copenhagen: What You Should Know Before Traveling

Included/Excluded

  • Safe and peaceful city
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
  • Modern transportation network and bike-friendly
  • High quality of life and sustainability
  • High cost of living
  • Cold winters
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Crowds in popular tourist areas

Top Must-Attend Events in Copenhagen

This annual festival transforms Copenhagen into a vibrant display of lights, with installations from local and international artists illuminating the cityโ€™s landmarks and waterways, creating a magical atmosphere unique to the Danish capital.

Copenhagen Light Festival

Copenhagen Light Festival

February

One of Europeโ€™s largest and most renowned jazz festivals, this event takes over the city each summer, featuring hundreds of concerts in various venues, from intimate clubs to grand stages, celebrating both international and Danish jazz musicians.

Copenhagen Jazz Festival

Copenhagen Jazz Festival

July

A week-long street party that turns Copenhagenโ€™s neighborhoods into lively, open-air venues for music, art, and dance, Distortion is a one-of-a-kind celebration of street life, attracting locals and visitors alike for its energetic and inclusive atmosphere.

Distortion Festival

Distortion Festival

June

Held annually in Langelinie Park, this festival celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms with traditional Japanese performances, tea ceremonies, and cultural exhibitions, offering a unique blend of Danish and Japanese traditions in a picturesque setting.

Copenhagen Sakura Festival

Copenhagen Sakura Festival

April

Best Summer Activities in Copenhagen

In Copenhagen, summer brings long daylight hours and a lively atmosphere as the city embraces the warm weather. The streets come alive with outdoor festivals, bustling cafes, and locals enjoying the sunshine by the water.

Canal Tours: One of the most popular activities in summer is taking a boat tour along Copenhagenโ€™s scenic canals, offering a unique perspective of the cityโ€™s colorful buildings, historic landmarks, and vibrant waterfront life.
Tivoli Gardens: The iconic amusement park becomes even more magical in the summer, with blooming gardens, open-air concerts, and nighttime fireworks that create an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.
Outdoor Markets and Street Food: Summer is the perfect time to explore Copenhagenโ€™s many outdoor markets, like the Torvehallerne food market, where you can sample fresh, local produce and enjoy a variety of international street food in a lively, social setting.

Best Winter Activities in Copenhagen

Winter in Copenhagen is a time of cozy gatherings, festive lights, and a sense of “hygge” that warms the soul. Despite the chilly weather, the city becomes a wonderland of holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and cultural events that embrace the season.

Christmas Markets: Copenhagenโ€™s Christmas markets, like those at Nyhavn and Tivoli Gardens, are a winter highlight, offering handmade crafts, festive treats, and a magical atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holidays.
Tivoli Gardens Winter Wonderland: During the winter season, Tivoli Gardens transforms into a fairy-tale landscape with sparkling lights, snow-covered decorations, and fun rides, creating a festive experience for visitors of all ages.
Ice Skating at Frederiksberg Gardens: Ice skating in the picturesque surroundings of Frederiksberg Gardens is a beloved winter activity, where both locals and visitors can glide across the ice and enjoy the serene, snowy landscape.

Best and Busiest Times in Copenhagen

Summer

June to August
The city sees an influx of tourists during the summer months, especially in July, due to the warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals.

Christmas Season

December
Copenhagen becomes particularly busy in December as visitors flock to experience the city's famous Christmas markets and festive activities.

Spring

April to May
With the arrival of warmer weather and blooming gardens, the city attracts many visitors during the spring, especially around Easter holidays.

Quietest Times to Visit Copenhagen

Late Winter

January to February
The city experiences fewer tourists during the coldest months, making it a peaceful time to explore without the crowds.

Early Autumn

September to October
After the summer rush, the early autumn months offer a calm atmosphere with fewer visitors and pleasant weather.

Post-Christmas

January
Following the festive season, January is particularly quiet as the holiday crowds depart and locals settle back into their routines.

Top 3 Must-See Iconic Landmarks in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a city rich in history and culture, with landmarks that capture the essence of its charm. From royal palaces to picturesque harbors, these iconic spots are must-visits for any traveler exploring the Danish capital.

Nyhavn is Copenhagen's most famous waterfront, known for its colorful 17th-century townhouses and historic wooden ships lining the canal. Once a bustling commercial port, it is now a lively area filled with cafes, restaurants, and bars where visitors can soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark's beloved fairy tale author, lived in several of the houses along Nyhavn. A stroll along the canal offers stunning views and a true taste of Copenhagen's maritime heritage.

Transportation:
Metro: Nyhavn is easily accessible by the metro; the Kongens Nytorv station is just a short walk away.
Bus: Several bus lines, including 26 and 1A, stop near Kongens Nytorv, providing easy access to Nyhavn.
Walking: If youโ€™re in the city center, Nyhavn is a pleasant walk from many central locations.

The Little Mermaid
This iconic bronze statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale, is one of Copenhagen's most recognizable symbols. Perched on a rock by the waterside at Langelinie, the Little Mermaid has been a beloved figure since 1913, capturing the imagination of visitors from around the world. Though small in size, the statue's significance to Danish culture and its picturesque setting make it a must-see.

Transportation:
Bus: The statue can be reached by bus, with several routes, including 23, stopping at the nearby Gefion Fountain.
Train: ร˜sterport station is the closest train station, and from there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the statue.
Biking: The statue is easily accessible by bike, with dedicated bike lanes along the waterfront.

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is one of the world's oldest amusement parks, offering a unique blend of thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and cultural performances. Opened in 1843, Tivoli has retained its historic charm while continuing to be a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. The park is especially magical at night when thousands of lights illuminate the grounds, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Transportation:
Train: Tivoli is just a few minutes' walk from Copenhagen Central Station, making it easily accessible by train from anywhere in the city.
Bus: Several bus lines, including 2A, 250S, and 5C, stop near Tivoli Gardens.
Walking: As Tivoli is centrally located, itโ€™s within walking distance from many downtown hotels and attractions.

Copenhagen's iconic landmarks are not only visually stunning but also deeply embedded in the city's cultural and historical fabric. Exploring these sites provides a deeper understanding of what makes Copenhagen such a unique and beloved destination.

Top Attractions and Must-Visit Places in Copenhagen

Top Local Dishes and Food Recommendations in Copenhagen

Smรธrrebrรธd
Smรธrrebrรธd is an open-faced sandwich typically made with rye bread and a variety of toppings such as pickled herring, roast beef, or shrimp. It's a classic Danish dish that's both simple and flavorful.
Recommended Restaurant: Restaurant Schรธnnemann
Frikadeller
Danish meatballs, known as frikadeller, are typically made from a mix of pork and beef, and they are often served with potatoes and gravy. This hearty dish is a staple of Danish home cooking and is loved by locals.
Recommended Restaurant: Restaurant Kronborg
Flรฆskesteg
Flรฆskesteg is a roast pork dish with crispy crackling, often served with red cabbage and potatoes. Itโ€™s a favorite during the Christmas season but can be enjoyed year-round.
Recommended Restaurant: Puk Restaurant
Stegt Flรฆsk
Stegt flรฆsk is another beloved Danish dish, consisting of crispy pork belly served with parsley sauce and potatoes. Itโ€™s considered Denmarkโ€™s national dish and is a must-try for visitors.
Recommended Restaurant: Hรธst
Danish Pastries (Wienerbrรธd)
Danish pastries, or wienerbrรธd, are famous worldwide for their flaky texture and sweet fillings, such as custard or jam. These pastries are a delightful treat any time of day.
Recommended Bakery: Lagkagehuset
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Must-Try Restaurants in Copenhagen

Best Hotels and Accommodation Options in Copenhagen

View LocationHotel d'AngleterreNightly Budget: 600$ - 1200$

Description: Hotel d'Angleterre is an iconic luxury hotel in Copenhagen, known for its historic charm and elegant design. The hotel offers spacious, beautifully appointed rooms with modern amenities, a world-class spa, and Michelin-starred dining at Marchal. Its prime location in Kongens Nytorv provides easy access to shopping, dining, and major attractions like Nyhavn and the Royal Danish Theatre. The impeccable service and luxurious ambiance make it a top choice for discerning travelers.

Location: Situated in the heart of Copenhagen, the hotel is within walking distance of major cultural and historical sites, offering guests the convenience of exploring the city by foot.

View Location Nimb Hotel Nightly Budget: 500$ - 1000$

Description: Nimb Hotel is a boutique luxury hotel located within the famous Tivoli Gardens, offering a unique blend of fairy-tale charm and modern sophistication. The hotel features individually designed rooms with luxurious furnishings, many of which overlook the gardens. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the hotel's restaurants, which serve both Danish and international cuisine. The rooftop terrace and pool provide a serene escape in the middle of the city.

Location: Positioned at Tivoli Gardens, Nimb Hotel is perfectly situated for exploring central Copenhagen, with easy access to the city's main attractions and shopping districts.

View Location Radisson Collection Royal Hotel Nightly Budget: 400$ - 800$

Description: Designed by the famous architect Arne Jacobsen, Radisson Collection Royal Hotel is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of modern design. The hotel offers stylish rooms with panoramic views of the city, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and the acclaimed restaurant, Cafรฉ Royal. Its location near Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Central Station makes it ideal for travelers who want to explore the city with ease.

Location: The hotel is centrally located, just a short walk from Tivoli Gardens, the City Hall Square, and Copenhagen Central Station, making it an excellent base for both leisure and business travelers.

View Location 71 Nyhavn HotelNightly Budget: 250$ - 400$

Description: 71 Nyhavn Hotel is housed in two beautifully restored 19th-century warehouses, offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. The hotel features stylish, cozy rooms with exposed wooden beams and waterfront views. Located at the end of the iconic Nyhavn canal, the hotel is perfect for guests who want to experience the lively atmosphere of one of Copenhagenโ€™s most famous areas.

Location: Situated in the picturesque Nyhavn district, the hotel is within walking distance of many popular attractions, including the Royal Danish Theatre, Amalienborg Palace, and the bustling Kongens Nytorv.

View Location Hotel Kong Arthur Nightly Budget: 200$ - 350$

Description: Hotel Kong Arthur is a charming boutique hotel located near the Nรธrreport station, offering a tranquil retreat in the city center. The hotel features a warm, inviting atmosphere with rooms that combine classic Danish design with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site spa, several restaurants, and the peaceful courtyard garden.

Location: The hotel is conveniently located close to the lakes of Copenhagen, within easy reach of the cityโ€™s main shopping streets, botanical gardens, and the historic Rosenborg Castle.

View Location Andersen Boutique HotelNightly Budget: 180$ - 300$

Description: Andersen Boutique Hotel is a trendy, family-run hotel in the vibrant Vesterbro district, known for its colorful design and personalized service. The hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms with thoughtful amenities, and guests can enjoy complimentary wine hour in the lobby each evening. The neighborhood is filled with cafes, bars, and boutiques, adding to the hotelโ€™s appeal.

Location: Located in the lively Vesterbro area, the hotel is a short walk from Copenhagen Central Station, Tivoli Gardens, and the Meatpacking District, making it a great choice for those looking to explore the cityโ€™s cultural and nightlife scenes.

View Location Axel Guldsmeden Nightly Budget: 200$ - 320$

Description: Axel Guldsmeden is an eco-friendly boutique hotel that combines Balinese-inspired decor with sustainable practices. The hotel features cozy, stylish rooms with organic amenities, a tranquil courtyard garden, and a wellness area with a sauna and hot tub. Guests appreciate the hotelโ€™s commitment to sustainability and the relaxed, bohemian vibe.

Location: Situated in the trendy Vesterbro district, Axel Guldsmeden is close to Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Central Station, and the bustling streets filled with cafes and shops.

View Location Wakeup Copenhagen - Carsten Niebuhrs Gade Nightly Budget: 90$ - 150$

Description: Wakeup Copenhagen is a modern budget hotel offering compact, functional rooms with sleek design at an affordable price. The hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a clean, comfortable place to stay without unnecessary frills. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the city on foot.

Location:Located within walking distance of Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Central Station, the hotel offers easy access to the cityโ€™s main attractions and public transportation.

View Location Hotel Ansgar Nightly Budget: 100$ - 160$

Description: Hotel Ansgar is a cozy budget hotel located in the heart of Vesterbro, offering comfortable rooms in a traditional setting. The hotel provides a complimentary breakfast and has a peaceful courtyard where guests can relax. Its proximity to the Central Station and major sights makes it a convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Location: Situated close to Copenhagen Central Station and the lively Vesterbro district, the hotel is within easy reach of Tivoli Gardens, the City Hall Square, and the Meatpacking District.

View Location Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER Nightly Budget: 80$ - 140$

Description: Urban House Copenhagen is a modern, budget-friendly hostel and hotel hybrid that caters to both solo travelers and families. The property offers a variety of room types, from private rooms to dorms, all with a stylish, urban design. The social spaces, including a bar, restaurant, and game room, make it a great place to meet other travelers.

Location: Located in the vibrant Vesterbro neighborhood, Urban House is just a few minutesโ€™ walk from Copenhagen Central Station and is surrounded by cafes, bars, and shops.

Unique Stays and Alternative Accommodation in Copenhagen

In Copenhagen, there are several standout accommodation alternatives to traditional hotels. Serviced apartments and guesthouses provide unique, often more affordable lodging options that offer a homey and personalized touch. Here are two popular choices:
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Copenhagen Travel Costs

These budget estimates provide different options for a one-week trip to Copenhagen, covering luxury, mid-range, and budget categories. Each category summarizes the expected expenses for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities, allowing visitors to plan a trip according to their budget.

Luxury Budget

Average
$ 11200 5 - 7 Days
  • Accommodation $8400
  • Food $1050
  • Transportation $350
  • Activities $1400

Mid-Range Budget

Average
$ 1995 5 - 7 Days
  • Accommodation $1050
  • Food $420
  • Transportation $175
  • Activities $350

Budget-Friendly

Average
$ 840 5 - 7 Days
  • Accommodation $420
  • Food $210
  • Transportation $70
  • Activities $140

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Copenhagen
Top Picks for Traveling with Kids

For families traveling with children, Copenhagen offers several accommodation options that cater to both comfort and convenience. These family-friendly places provide amenities and environments designed to keep both parents and kids happy. Here are three top choices:

View LocationCopenhagen Admiral HotelNightly Budget: $400 - $800

Copenhagen Admiral Hotel offers spacious family rooms and suites, some with beautiful views of the harbor. Its central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions such as Tivoli Gardens and the National Museum. The hotel also provides family-friendly services and amenities, including cribs and high chairs.

View Location Stay Copenhagen Nightly Budget: $150- $300

Stay Copenhagen provides modern serviced apartments with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for families needing extra space and flexibility. Located in the Vesterbro area, itโ€™s near family-friendly attractions and offers amenities like laundry facilities and living areas for a comfortable stay. The propertyโ€™s family-oriented approach includes kid-friendly services and a safe environment.

View Location Copenhagen Island Hotel Nightly Budget: $200 - $350

Copenhagen Island Hotel is a modern, family-friendly hotel located on an artificial island in the harbor. The hotel features spacious rooms with harbor views and offers amenities like a swimming pool and a kids' play area. Its location provides easy access to nearby attractions and is well-suited for families looking for a comfortable stay.

Top Attractions for Kids in Copenhagen
Fun Places to Explore with Children

Travel Routes in Copenhagen
For Kids and Parents

Tour Plan

Day 01 Exploring Copenhagen's Fairy Tales
  • Tivoli Gardens: Start the day at this magical amusement park, where children can enjoy gentle rides, colorful gardens, and live entertainment, all inspired by classic fairy tales.
  • Hans Christian Andersen Museum: In the afternoon, visit this museum dedicated to Denmark's beloved storyteller, where interactive exhibits bring his famous fairy tales to life.
Day 02 Fun by the Water
  • Copenhagen Zoo: Spend the morning discovering a variety of animals from around the world, with special kid-friendly areas and playgrounds that make it an engaging experience for little ones.
  • The Blue Planet Aquarium: In the afternoon, dive into the wonders of the ocean at Northern Europeโ€™s largest aquarium, where children can marvel at sea creatures and walk through underwater tunnels.
Day 03 Cultural and Creative Day
  • The National Museum of Denmark: Start the day by exploring exhibits specifically designed for children, where they can play and learn about Denmarkโ€™s history in a fun and interactive way.
  • LEGO Store: End the day with a visit to the famous LEGO store in the city center, where kids can unleash their creativity by building with the iconic Danish toy bricks.
Day 04 Relaxation and Play
  • Kongens Have (The Kingโ€™s Garden): Enjoy a peaceful morning in this beautiful park, where children can run, play, and explore the fairy-tale inspired playground.
  • Experimentarium: In the afternoon, head to this interactive science center, where kids can engage in hands-on experiments and fun activities that stimulate their curiosity and learning.

Best Shopping Spots in Copenhagen

Top Nightlife Venues in Copenhagen

Copenhagen boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of venues to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are nine popular spots, categorized by their locations:

How to Navigate Copenhagen: Transportation Tips

Metro

Copenhagenโ€™s metro system is fast, reliable, and operates 24/7. It connects the city center with the airport and outer districts, making it a convenient option for both short and long distances.

Buses

The cityโ€™s extensive bus network covers areas not served by the metro or trains, offering frequent services throughout the day. Night buses are also available for late-night travel.

S-Trains

S-Trains are a suburban rail network that connects Copenhagen with its surrounding areas. They are particularly useful for reaching destinations outside the immediate city center.

Bicycles

Copenhagen is renowned for its cycling culture, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs like Bycyklen. Itโ€™s a healthy and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Water Buses

These are boat services that operate on the cityโ€™s canals and harbor, offering a scenic and relaxing way to travel between key points like Nyhavn, the Opera House, and other waterfront attractions.

Copenhagen Transport Cards: How to Get and Best Options

In Copenhagen, public transportation cards, such as the Rejsekort, are widely available and offer a convenient way to travel across the cityโ€™s metro, buses, and trains. The Rejsekort can be purchased and topped up at kiosks, ticket machines at stations, or online. Additionally, there are city-specific travel cards like the Copenhagen Card, which provides unlimited travel on public transportation and free or discounted entry to many attractions. These cards can be obtained at the airport, major train stations, or online for easy pick-up.

Copenhagen Safety Overview: What You Need to Know

Copenhagen is considered one of the safest cities in the world, consistently ranking high in global safety indices. The city boasts low crime rates, with violent crime being particularly rare. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation, but they are not common. The cityโ€™s well-lit streets, efficient police presence, and strong community sense contribute to a secure environment for both locals and visitors. Additionally, Copenhagenโ€™s cycling culture is supported by well-maintained bike lanes, making it safe to navigate the city by bike. In terms of emergency services, Copenhagen has a robust system in place, with prompt responses from police, fire, and medical teams. Public health and sanitation are also of high standard, with clean water readily available and strict food safety regulations in place. The city’s infrastructure is designed with safety in mind, from pedestrian-friendly streets to well-monitored public spaces. Overall, Copenhagen offers a secure and welcoming atmosphere, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the city with peace of mind.

Healthcare in Copenhagen: Comprehensive Guide for Visitors

Copenhagen offers high-quality healthcare services that are accessible and well-regarded both locally and internationally. The city is equipped with modern medical facilities, and the healthcare system is designed to ensure that residents and visitors receive prompt and effective care.

  • International Hospitals: Copenhagen has several hospitals with international accreditation, offering services in multiple languages and catering to expatriates and travelers.
  • Emergency Services: Emergency services are efficient, with ambulances and paramedics typically arriving quickly when needed.
  • Health Insurance: Visitors are advised to have travel health insurance, as non-residents may need to pay for medical services out-of-pocket.
  • Payment: Most medical facilities accept credit cards, but some may require upfront payment for services rendered.
  • Clean Water: Tap water in Copenhagen is of high quality and safe to drink, with strict regulations ensuring its cleanliness.
  • Hygiene: The city maintains high standards of public hygiene, with clean streets and well-maintained public facilities.
  • Air Pollution: Air quality in Copenhagen is generally good, with low levels of pollution compared to other major cities.
  • Pharmacies: Pharmacies are widely available and typically offer a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Overall, Copenhagen’s healthcare system is robust and reliable, providing excellent care for both residents and visitors. The city’s commitment to health and well-being is evident in its clean environment, safe water, and readily available medical services.

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