Copenhagen is one of those cities that three hours into the trip, you ask yourself "can I just go ahead and move here?". I think I'm still asking myself that. Seriously, this is one of my favorite Scandinavian cities. It's easy to just spend hours wandering around and exploring the different districts. And don't get me started on all the scrumptious food we ate (when am I not eating?) Not sure if you can squeeze this marvelous city into your next trip? Well, I have good news! It's completely possible to do three days in Copenhagen. You can even do it in 2.5, if you only have a weekend in Copenhagen.
Before You Go
Most places accept credit card but it doesn't hurt to have a little cash on hand
Denmark isn't on the euro - they have the Danish krone
Tipping is minimal although it's customary to round up the amount
The Danes are the happiest people on the planet and it shows!
There are a ton of bicyclists speeding about so be aware of your surroundings. Being hit by a bicycle would probably put a dampener on your trip
Where to Stay
Nyhavn is the iconic waterfront of Copenhagen and is also located to a lot of top sights. I'd recommend finding a place close to here.
Things to Do
Spend time at Nyhavn Harbor: this waterfront is lined by brightly colored 17th and 18th century townhouses, bars, cafes, and restaurants. The harbor also boasts many historical wooden ships. The restaurants dotting the harbor are admittedly pricy and touristy. Save your appetite (and your wallet!) and just grab a drink. You can even "take away" your drink for a lower cost and sit on the edge of the harbor. This is a fantastic photo spot but can get a little crowded as the day goes on.
Explore Christania: One of the most unique aspects of Copenhagen is the freetown of Christiania. This is an alternative society with creative houses, music venues, artwork, restaurants, and more. I recommend walking around and exploring this area. Note, they are strict about their rules (posted at the entrance) so be sure to heed them and absolutely do not take any photos of the residents.
Become a royal at Rosenberg Castle: Rosenberg Castle was originally built as a country summerhouse in 1606 this castle is an example of Christian IV's many architectural projects and was built in the Dutch Renaissance style. Don't you just love a little royal history? You can take a tour of the many rooms of the castle as well as see some of Denmark's crown jewels!
Walk down Stroget: this is Copenhagen's longest pedestrian shopping streets. You can find cafes, restaurants, and of course, plenty of shops. While you're on this street, check out Conditori La Glace which was founded in 1870 and serves some delicious cakes
Go to the top of Church of Our Saviour: This is an absolute must and quite an unique experience. The climb to the top is actually outside of the tower so if you are afraid of heights, this may trigger some anxiety. Hey, if I can get through it then you can! The view during your climb up and at the very top is so incredibly worth it. I swear I almost cried, it was that beautiful.
Take a Canal Cruise: Always a great way to see the city from a different perspective. If you're tired from all that walking or if you're just as obsessed with water as I am, a canal cruise is definitely for you.
Take a free walking tour and learn why Danes are the happiest people in the world: I'm a big proponent of free walking tours. First of all they're free so what do you really have to lose? And second of all, they are a good way to orient yourself around the city. Our particular tour guide covered why Danes are the happiest people in the world (the answer will make you want to move to Denmark right away) and some incredible history of Copenhagen. Spoiler alert: the city burned down. A lot.
Tivoli: We did not make our way to Tivoli so I cannot give you my personal experience here but it does come recommended by other travelers.
What to Skip
The Little Mermaid - It's underwhelming and it isn't close to anything so if you only have 2 or 3 days in Copenhagen, it doesn't make sense to devote any to the statue.
Kastellet - It looks cool from an aerial view but up close there isn't much to see here
Food to Try
Go to Hal 7 & 8 (Copenhagen Street Food): This is an absolute must. I went here two times and would have gone a third. Copenhagen Street Food is a warehouse filled with different vendors. Depending on the day, they also have live music. And of course, a few bars for you to enjoy. Best of all, it's on the waterfront so take your food and your drinks and head outside to watch the sun set. Love. It
Cocktail at Ruby or Curfew…or both: Who doesn't love a good cocktail bar? These two are some of the best in Copenhagen
Breakfast at Parterre Christianshav: This is a place that locals go to so you know it's the real deal. Get their avocado toast. You won't regret it! My eyes practically rolled into the back of my head
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12 Comments
Great read! I’m trying to squeeze in Copenhagen on my European tour.
Def do it!! When’s your tour?
Lol omg! The Little Mermaid is the absolute worst most underwhelming attraction I have ever been to! It’s like why!?? Watching the movie just sets you up for failure hahaha! If you ever make it back Anderson’s bakery is the best! I normally don’t like pastries because they are dry and have jelly or custard filling, which I hate, but Anderson’s bakery converted me. Best pastries I have ever had… or Danish lol what the Danes do best. It will be the only reason I ever go back. And if they ever decide to ship I won’t have to go back. I was very underwhelmed by Copenhagen as a whole. 🙂
Yeah it was insanely underwhelming! And completely out of the way. I’ll def have to check out Anderson bakery whenever I make it back!
I absolutely love Copenhagen! I’ve been going back since my first trip in 2013. Every time, I discover something different. It’s just a beautiful city.
It really is! I def can not wait to go back
Love that you included not worthy things! thanks for the heads up 🙂
The Fernweh Wolf / Travel & Lifestyle Blog
xx
You’re welcome! I think that’s always important to know especially when you’re short on time
I think I have the funniest Little Mermaid story…when I was in Copenhagen back in 2003 she had recently been blown up by vandals. So I had to go get a picture of the empty rock. Apparently she’s always the target of vandalism.
You forgot to mention the Rundetaarn….it provides a pretty overview of the city!
Oh man! That’s terrible…and after that walk too.
I actually have not been there! I will have to check it out
I would love to visit Denmark! Three days seems much too short but these tips are good advice for when you have little time
Three days is def too short! But sometimes, three days is all you have. You can always build on these tips for a longer time