Copenhagen: 4-Day Itinerary
Ah, Copenhagen—a city that’s as cool as the breeze off the Baltic and as warm as a Danish pastry fresh out of the oven. With Sara’s sister living here, we’ve got the insider scoop on how to make the most of your visit. So, if you’re ready for a few days filled with colorful houses, cozy cafes, and more bikes than you can count, let’s dive into this itinerary!
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Best Time to Go
Let’s be real—Copenhagen is beautiful year-round, but the experience can be a little different depending on when you visit. We went in January, and while it was a bit nippy, the city’s winter charm (and gløgg, the Danish mulled wine) kept us warm. If you’re not a fan of chilly winds, aim for spring or summer when the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor activities.
Budget
Copenhagen is known for many things—design, history, and yes, high prices. Be prepared to spend a bit more than usual on food and drinks. The city is also home to some of the world’s best restaurants (hello, Noma!), so if you’re a foodie, this might be where your budget flies out the window. But fear not, there are plenty of affordable options too, especially if you don’t mind eating like a local. Supermarket picnics, etc.
Accommodation in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a city that offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and tastes. Here's a quick guide:
Budget-Friendly: If you’re looking to save some Danish krone, consider staying in hostels or budget hotels like Generator Copenhagen or Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER. These are popular among students and backpackers, with a good social atmosphere and basic amenities.
Mid-Range: For those who want a bit more comfort without breaking the bank, look into boutique hotels or Airbnb options. Ibsens Hotel and Hotel SP34 are mid-range options with a touch of Scandinavian design.
Location Tip for Airbnb: Stay in neighborhoods like Indre By (the city center), Vesterbro, or Nørrebro for easy access to major attractions, great dining options, and public transportation.
Luxury: If you’re ready spend a lot, Copenhagen has some fantastic luxury hotels. Hotel D'Angleterre is an iconic choice, offering top-tier service and amazing rooms right in the heart of the city. Another excellent option is Nimb Hotel, known for its beautiful Tivoli Gardens location.
Getting Around Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s public transportation system is efficient, easy to use, and a great way to see the city. Make sure you have the App for it on your phone and you are ready to go! Here’s how to navigate it:
Metro: The Copenhagen Metro is modern and runs frequently. It’s an excellent option for getting around quickly, especially if you’re traveling from the airport to the city center. The M1 and M2 lines will take you to most key areas.
Buses and Trains: The bus network covers the entire city, and the S-trains are useful for getting to outer neighborhoods or nearby towns. Both are part of the same ticketing system as the Metro, so you can easily transfer between them.
Cycling: Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. Renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore the city like a local. There are plenty of bike rental shops, and you’ll find dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
Walking: Many of Copenhagen’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially if you’re staying in the city center.
Copenhagen Card: If you plan on using public transportation extensively and visiting multiple attractions, consider getting the Copenhagen Card. It gives you unlimited access to public transportation and free entry to many museums and attractions.
What to Pack for Copenhagen
When packing for Copenhagen, the key is to be prepared for anything the weather might throw at you—this city can be as unpredictable as it is charming!
Layer Up: Regardless of the season, layers are your best friend. Think sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a good quality jacket. Even in the summer, the evenings can get chilly.
Rain Gear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket is a must, especially since the weather can change quickly. A small, foldable umbrella can also be a lifesaver.
Comfortable Shoes: Copenhagen is a city made for walking (or biking), so comfortable shoes are essential. Opt for something stylish but sturdy, as you’ll be exploring cobblestone streets, parks, and everything in between.
Warm Accessories (for winter visits): If you’re visiting in the colder months, don’t forget a warm hat, scarf, and gloves. Trust us, you’ll be glad you brought them when that Nordic wind picks up.
Casual Chic: The Danes are known for their effortlessly cool style, so pack a few outfits that are casual yet chic. Think minimalist and comfortable—this isn’t the place for high heels and formal wear.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Copenhagen!
Morning: Nyhavn & Amalienborg Palace
Start your adventure at the iconic Nyhavn—those colorful townhouses along the canal are the perfect welcome to Copenhagen. Snap some photos and maybe grab a coffee at one of the cozy cafes. Then, take a short walk to Amalienborg Palace, the royal family’s residence. If you time it right, you can catch the changing of the guard around noon!
Lunch: Head over to Torvehallerne, a food market where you can sample everything from smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to fresh pastries. It’s the perfect spot to refuel and try some local food.
Afternoon: The Little Mermaid & Kastellet
After lunch, make your way to the Little Mermaid statue, one of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks. It’s a bit of a walk (or bike ride), but along the way, you can stop by Kastellet, a star-shaped fortress that’s now a public park.
Dinner: For dinner, try Host, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Danish cuisine. The ambiance is cozy, and the food is a real treat.
Day 2: Exploring Copenhagen’s Culture
Morning: Rosenborg Castle & The King’s Garden
Start your day with a visit to Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance-era palace that houses the crown jewels and royal treasures. The surrounding King’s Garden is beautiful in any season, so take a stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Lunch: Stop by Next Door Café for some delicious food!
Afternoon: Dive into Danish history at the National Museum of Denmark (again Sara went crazy here!). From Viking artifacts to modern exhibits, there’s a lot to see here. If you still have energy (and museum love) left, head over to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek—a stunning museum with art, sculptures, and a lovely winter garden.
Dinner: For dinner, visit Vækst, a restaurant with a greenhouse-inspired setting. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the ambiance is very Scandinavian.
Day 3: Day Trip to Hillerød or Helsingør
Option 1: Hillerød & Frederiksborg Castle
Take a day trip to Hillerød to explore Frederiksborg Castle, a stunning Renaissance castle surrounded by lakes and gardens. It’s about a 40-minute train ride from Copenhagen and well worth the trip.
Option 2: Helsingør & Kronborg Castle
Alternatively, head to Helsingør to visit Kronborg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” It offers stunning views of the Øresund Strait.
Dinner: Once back in Copenhagen, unwind with dinner at Restaurant Cofoco, a place that serves delicious Nordic dishes at reasonable prices. If you love Sushi, we would recommend Sticks & Sushi which is quite close to the Tivoli!
Day 4: Islands Brygge & Christiania
Morning: Islands Brygge
Spend your last morning in Copenhagen at Islands Brygge, a waterfront area popular with locals. If you’re here in the summer, you can even take a dip in the harbor baths. Otherwise, enjoy a walk along the water and maybe a coffee from one of the many cafes.
Lunch: Head to Papirøen (Paper Island), known for its vibrant street food market. Grab some global street eats and find a spot by the water to enjoy your meal.
Afternoon: Christiania
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without a visit to Christiania, the city’s infamous free town. It’s a unique, self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood with colorful murals, shops, and a relaxed vibe. Take a walk around, respect the local rules, and soak in the atmosphere.
Dinner: End your Copenhagen adventure with dinner at Kødbyens Fiskebar in the Meatpacking District. This trendy spot serves up fresh seafood in an cool industrial setting.
And that wraps up your 4-day Copenhagen adventure! Whether you’re wandering the historic streets, diving into Danish culture, or just enjoying the local cuisine, we hope you’ll find this city as charming and delightful as we do. Remember to pack your sense of adventure—and maybe an extra sweater if you’re visiting in winter!
Vi ses senere!
