Copenhagen Denmark 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City Center

  • Morning:
    1. Check-in at your hotel (e.g., Hotel Danmark or 71 Nyhavn Hotel) - centrally located for easy access to main attractions.
    2. Start your day with a traditional Danish breakfast at Atelier September.
    3. Visit the Rosenborg Castle to see the Danish Crown Jewels and the beautiful gardens.
  • Afternoon:
    1. Head to The National Museum of Denmark to learn about Denmark’s rich history and culture.
    2. Take a stroll along the colorful houses at Nyhavn, grab a bite at one of the waterside restaurants, and maybe even hop on a historic canal tour.
  • Evening:
    1. Explore the trendy district of Vesterbro - visit MeatPacken for dinner, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food options.
    2. End your day at Tivoli Gardens, the world’s second-oldest operating amusement park, where you can enjoy rides, live music, and a variety of street food.

Day 2: Modern Copenhagen

  • Morning:
    1. Visit the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum with an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings.
    2. Head to The Modern Art Museum (Louisiana Museum of Modern Art) by train (approx. 30 min). Enjoy contemporary art in a beautiful seaside setting.
  • Afternoon:
    1. Grab lunch at Humlekassen - a microbrewery with delicious food and beer.
    2. Explore the eco-friendly island of Refshaleøen. Check out Reffen, Copenhagen Street Food, and the old shipyard’s history.
  • Evening:
    1. Dine at Noma (reservation required, one of the world’s best restaurants) or try a more casual option like Copenhot, which combines pizza with smørrebrød traditions.
    2. Enjoy a drink at The Rubberball Warehouse or Köldforfatteriet, two popular bars in Vesterbro.

Day 3: Green Copenhagen

  • Morning:
    1. Visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue and the nearby Frederiksberg Have (Frederiksberg Garden).
    2. Explore The Botanical Garden of Copenhagen and The Palm House.
  • Afternoon:
    1. Rent a bike and cycle across the Øresund Bridge to Malmö, Sweden (approx. 20 min) for an afternoon excursion or continue exploring Copenhagen’s parks and neighborhoods like Freetown Christiania.
  • Evening:
    1. Dine at Kadeau on Bornholm Island, accessible by ferry from Copenhagen (reservation required).
    2. Alternatively, return to the city and enjoy a farewell dinner in Noma’s sister restaurant, Noma Fermentoriet, or another favorite like Apollo Bar & Kantine.

Things to Know:

  • Copenhagen is known for being a bike-friendly city, with extensive bike lanes and rental options available.
  • Danish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • The currency used is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
  • Denmark can be expensive; budget accordingly to enjoy your trip without stress.
  • Remember to tip around 10% in restaurants or round up the bill for other services.

Transportation:

  • Copenhagen’s public transportation system, Museums, Zoos and Parks (MZP), is reliable, efficient, and affordable. Buy a travel card to use buses, trains, and metros.
  • Taxis are also available but can be pricey compared to other European cities.

Tips:

  • Visit during late spring or early fall for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Download the app “Copenhagenize” to find the best bike routes around the city.
  • Don’t forget to try Danish pastries, smørrebrød, and aquavit during your stay!