Copenhagen

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Copenhagen: A Comprehensive Travel Itinerary

Introduction

Welcome to Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark and a haven for culture, design, food, and sustainability enthusiasts! This guide aims to provide you with an in-depth look at the best places to go, activities to enjoy, eateries to indulge in, accommodations to rest your head, important tips, and more. Let’s dive right into this Scandinavian adventure!

Places to Visit

  1. The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue): A iconic bronze statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale.
  2. Tivoli Gardens: The second-oldest amusement park in the world, offering a variety of rides, games, and stunning nighttime entertainment.
  3. Nyhavn: Famous waterfront area with colorful 17th-century houses, cafes, bars, and boat tours.
  4. Amalienborg Palace: Home to the Danish Royal Family and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  5. Christiania (Freetown Christiania): A self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood known for its artistic expression and alternative lifestyle.
  6. The Round Tower (Rundetaarn): An astronomical observatory with a unique spiral ramp and panoramic views of the city.
  7. The National Museum of Denmark: Explore Danish history from the Stone Age to the present day.
  8. Copenhagen Contemporary (CCNOA): A contemporary art center located in the historic Bourse building.
  9. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek: An art museum with an exceptional collection of sculptures, paintings, and antiquities.
  10. The Botanical Garden and the University Park (Botanisk Have): A peaceful green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Activities

  1. Bike Rentals: Explore Copenhagen on two wheels, as it is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.
  2. Kayaking in the Canals: Discover Copenhagen from a different perspective by kayak.
  3. Visit Freetown Christiania’s Artistic Streets: Soak up the vibrant street art and alternative lifestyle.
  4. The David Collection:**Enjoy a collection of Islamic Art in an 18th-century baroque mansion.
  5. Visit the Cisternerne: An underground museum showcasing the history of water in Denmark.
  6. Architecture Tours: Discover modern Danish architecture, including works by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).
  7. Visit the Paper Island (Papirøen): A collection of food trucks and restaurants located by the harbor.
  8. Explore the Design District (Vesterbro)**: A trendy neighborhood filled with independent shops, boutiques, and eateries.
  9. The Meatpacking District (Kødbyens Lufthavn): Visit after dark for bars, clubs, and unique experiences.

Where to Eat

  1. Noma: A three-Michelin-star restaurant known for its innovative Nordic cuisine (reservations required).
  2. Geranium**: Another three-Michelin-star eatery offering exceptional tasting menus.
  3. Kadeau: Enjoy fresh and creative island dishes from Bornholm.
  4. Restaurant Almanak: A cozy, new Nordic restaurant located in a former stable.
  5. Apollo Bar & Kantine: A casual eatery with delicious burgers and shakes.
  6. Hija de Sanchez**: A popular tapas bar by the renowned chef Rosio Sanchez.
  7. La Banchina: Dine on fresh seafood at this floating restaurant on Refshaleøen.
  8. Relae: A sustainable, vegetable-focused eatery with a modern Scandinavian twist.
  9. Cafe Atelier September: Enjoy pastries and coffee in a beautiful setting.
  10. Meyers Bageri: Try the famous “kringle” pastry at this classic Danish bakery.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Danmark**: A historic hotel located steps away from Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn.
  2. 71 Nyhavn Hotel**: A modern boutique hotel with stunning harbor views.
  3. Hotel Ottilia**: A stylish, design-focused hotel in the heart of Copenhagen.
  4. Copenhagen Strand: A contemporary waterfront hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurant.
  5. Andersen’s Hotel Boutique & Spa**: A chic, adults-only hotel in Vesterbro.
  6. Generator Copenhagen**: A trendy hostel with an onsite bar, café, and live music events.
  7. First Hotel Five**: A sustainable and eco-friendly hotel with a rooftop terrace.
  8. Cabinn Scandinavia**: Affordable, modern hostels with locations throughout the city.
  9. CPH Living Apartments: Spacious, self-catering apartments for longer stays.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Danish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  2. Currency: The official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted.
  3. Tipping: Service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, but it’s always appreciated to leave a few extra kroner.
  4. Opening Hours: Shops generally open from 10 am – 6 pm on weekdays and from noon – 5 pm on Sundays. Some shops in the city center are open on Sundays.
  5. Etiquette: Danish people tend to be polite, punctual, and reserved. Greetings are typically formal, using “du” (informal) only with close friends or family.
  6. Public Holidays: Easter, Whit Monday, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day are the main public holidays in Denmark.

Transportation

  1. Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup): The primary international airport, well-connected to the city center by train, bus, and taxi.
  2. Metro (M): Fast, clean, and efficient subway system serving most parts of the city.
  3. S-trains (S-tog): Regional trains connecting Copenhagen with its suburbs and surrounding towns.
  4. Buses (busser): Complementary to the metro and S-trains, buses serve smaller routes within the city.
  5. Bicycles: Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world; bike rentals are widely available.
  6. Ferry Services (færge): Connects various parts of the city, including the harbor islands and the Opera House.
  7. Taxis: Available but can be expensive compared to other modes of transport.
  8. City Passes: Consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card for unlimited travel and free admission to many attractions.

Tips

  1. Pre-book Your Tickets: Popular tourist attractions, such as Tivoli Gardens and the National Museum of Denmark, can get busy during peak seasons. Pre-booking your tickets online may save you time.
  2. Bike with Confidence: Follow bike lanes, use hand signals when turning, and always wear a helmet (though it’s not mandatory in Denmark).
  3. Experience the Danish Hygge: Embrace the concept of hygge (coziness) by visiting cozy cafes, enjoying a home-cooked meal, or relaxing in a sauna.
  4. Respect the Environment: Denmark is a leader in sustainability, so be mindful of your waste and recycle wherever possible.
  5. Stroll along Nyhavn at Sunset: Capture the perfect Instagram shot while watching the boats sail by.
  6. Visit During Christmas Time: Experience the magical Tivoli Gardens lit up for Christmas, or attend the traditional Christmas market in Kongens Nytorv.
  7. Explore the Islands: Take a ferry to the harbor islands of Refshaleøen, Amager, and Christianshavn for unique experiences and stunning views.