Denmark
Copenhagen: itinerary & travel tips
Copenhagen is compact, flat and perfect to explore on foot or by bike. The main sights are close together, and with the metro, S-train and buses you can quickly reach neighbourhoods further out too. This makes it easy to get to know the city in two to four days.
The city combines royal history with modern design, harbour baths and a strong food culture. From Germany, Austria and Switzerland it is easy to reach by direct flight or train. A weekend is enough for the classics, while with four days you have time for trips to Sweden or Kronborg Castle, for example.
Ready-made itineraries
3 days · 19 stops
Copenhagen in 3 days
Three relaxed days in Copenhagen based in Indre By: arrival and the Nyhavn area, then palaces, history and smørrebrød, and finally architecture and food in Refshaleøen and Vesterbro.
- Day 1Arrival and strolling the old town
- Day 2Palaces, history and smørrebrød
- Day 3Modern architecture and food
Weekend like a local · 14 stops
Copenhagen: weekend like a local
Two relaxed days in Copenhagen, based in Vesterbro/Kødbyen: arrival on Saturday with coffee and food off the beaten tourist track, and on Sunday Nørrebro, art and departure.
- Day 1Arrival, Kødbyen and Vesterbro
- Day 2Nørrebro, art and departure
What to see
Nyhavn
The old harbour with its colourful gabled houses is the city's best-known photo spot and a good starting point for a stroll.
Tivoli
The amusement park from 1843 in the middle of the city is especially worth seeing in the evening when it is lit up.
Christiansborg Palace
This is the seat of the Danish parliament, and you can visit the royal reception rooms and the tower, which offers a good view over the city.
Rosenborg Castle
The Renaissance castle in the Kongens Have park displays the Danish crown jewels and royal treasures.
Freetown Christiania
The alternative residential community on a former military site is a unique and much-debated piece of the city's history.
National Museum of Denmark
It tells Danish history from the Vikings to the present day and is well designed for children too.
Where to stay
Indre By (City Centre)
Ideal for anyone who wants to walk to the sights on a first visit, though with higher hotel prices.
Vesterbro
For night owls and foodies with plenty of bars and restaurants, and located right next to the central station.
Nørrebro
Multicultural, young and lively, good for cafés, vintage shops and lower prices.
Christianshavn
Quieter, with canals and houseboats, suited to couples and anyone who likes a cosy atmosphere.
Best time to visit
May to September is the most pleasant time, when the days are long and many terraces and harbour baths are open. In July and August prices and visitor numbers are at their highest, but the weather is most reliable, with temperatures around 20 degrees. May, June and September often offer the best balance of weather, quiet and price. From November to February it is cold, wet and dark early, and only the Advent season with its Christmas markets has its own charm.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May ✓
- Jun ✓
- Jul ✓
- Aug ✓
- Sep ✓
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Getting there
Copenhagen-Kastrup Airport is about 8 km south-east of the centre and has direct flights from many German, Austrian and Swiss airports. By metro (line M2) or train you reach the central station in 15 to 20 minutes, and a ticket costs about 4 to 6 euros. From Hamburg the train takes about five to six hours to Copenhagen, including a ferry crossing or the bridge route depending on the connection. The central station (København H) is located in the heart of the city centre.
Getting around
Metro, S-train and buses share one fare system with zones, and tickets are available via app or at machines. The best way to explore the city centre is on foot or with a rental bike, as cycle paths are everywhere. For several days, a multi-day pass is worthwhile, which also covers the airport journey, especially if you travel a lot.
Daily budget
budget
€60
mid-range
€130
per person, without accommodation. Eating out, alcohol and admission fees are much more expensive than in Germany; bakeries, street food and supermarkets keep costs down.
Local tips
- Rent a bike and follow the cycling rules: ride on the right, use hand signals and take care when turning.
- Several harbour baths such as Islands Brygge are free in summer and very popular with locals.
- Try smørrebrød for lunch; it is cheaper than dinner in a restaurant.
- In Denmark you pay by card almost everywhere, you hardly need cash, and tips are included in the price.
FAQ
How many days do you need for Copenhagen?
Two to three days are enough for the main sights. With four days you can plan trips such as to Helsingør or Malmö.
Where is the best place to stay in Copenhagen?
For a first visit the city centre (Indre By) is practical, and Vesterbro offers lots of dining and good transport links. Nørrebro is often cheaper.
Is Copenhagen expensive?
Yes, accommodation, restaurants and alcohol cost significantly more than in Germany. You can save money with bakeries, street food and free sights.
How do I get from the airport into the city?
The M2 metro and regional trains reach the centre in about 15 minutes. A taxi is much more expensive and only makes sense with a lot of luggage.
Is Copenhagen safe, and what about tipping?
The city is considered very safe; you should only watch out for pickpockets in tourist areas. Tipping is not customary as service is included in the price, but rounding up is possible.
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