Updated 2025

Planning a trip to Copenhagen and not sure where to start? This Copenhagen travel guide covers the absolute must-see highlights (Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, Strøget), the local hidden gems most tourists miss, the best food in Copenhagen from breakfast pastries to street food markets, where to stay on any budget, plus essential Copenhagen travel tips (Is it expensive? Is it safe? Do you really need a bike?).

This guide is written by Elle from Dressing Danishly, who spent several months living in Copenhagen – so you’re not just getting generic ‘top 10 things to do in Copenhagen,’ you’re getting the real-life version of the city. 

Copenhagen (yes, Denmark’s capital and arguably the capital of cool) has around 600,000 people, and the vibe is exactly what you think: bikes everywhere, waterfront cafés, pastel canals,and  design that makes you want to redo your whole apartment.

Is Copenhagen expensive? It can be – but it doesn’t have to destroy your budget. You can stay in affordable hotels like Cabinn City (tiny rooms but private bathrooms), eat at street food markets like Reffen instead of sit-down restaurants, and walk or bike basically everywhere.

And once you get past the classic ‘postcard’ attractions, there’s another Copenhagen that most weekend visitors never see: chilled beaches, green parks, and creative neighborhoods full of bars, vintage shops, and natural-wine places locals actually go.

Top landmarks to see in Copenhagen

Nyhavn

This is THE postcard view of Copenhagen. Those Lego-colored townhouses, wooden boats in the canal, outdoor cafés where everyone is wrapped in blankets with a drink – that’s Nyhavn.

Tip: Come early in the morning if you want photos without 200 other people in them. Then come back again at golden hour for that ridiculous light on the water.

You can also start a classic Copenhagen canal/boat tour from here.

If you’re short on time (like you’re doing Copenhagen in one day), take the boat tour. In about 90 minutes, you’ll glide past Nyhavn, Christianshavn, The Little Mermaid statue, and cool modern architecture you probably wouldn’t walk to.

Tivoli

I love Tivoli Gardens so much! It’s a historic amusement park right in the center of Copenhagen, and it feels like stepping into a fairytale after dark when all the lights turn on. Even if you hate rides, go.

You can just wander the lantern-lit paths, watch live music, and eat something sweet.

Practical info, updated 2025:

• You pay an entrance ticket to get in (expect roughly 135–145 DKK for adults, depending on day – that’s about 18–20 EUR). Rides are NOT included.
• Once you’re inside, you can either buy single ride tickets or get an unlimited rides pass (about 30 EUR-ish).
• Tivoli is open in themed seasons: summer, Halloween (hello pumpkins everywhere), and Christmas (twinkly lights, markets, gløgg).

Food tip: There are tons of stalls and quick eats inside, so you can actually eat in Tivoli without spending a fortune. Get the churros with caramel sauce. Thank me later.

Strøget

Strøget is one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, running from City Hall Square all the way to Kongens Nytorv. If you’re in Copenhagen for shopping, this is where you’ll lose control of your credit card.

You’ll find Scandinavian design brands, international flagships, budget fashion, and Illum – a beautiful, high-end department store.

Even if you’re not shopping, you’ll walk Strøget multiple times because it basically links most of the ‘things to do in Copenhagen’ into one line.

Rosenborg

About a 10-minute walk from Strøget you’ll hit Rosenborg Slot (Rosenborg Castle), which looks like something from a storybook. Inside, you can see the Danish crown jewels and royal treasures if you buy a ticket, but honestly, even if you skip the interior, you should still wander the King’s Garden outside.

In summer, locals sit on the grass, eat ice cream, read, nap. It’s one of the easiest ‘I feel like I live here now’ moments you can have in Copenhagen.

Amalienborg

Amalienborg is the home of the Danish royal family, a set of elegant palaces arranged around an open square. It’s only a short walk from Nyhavn, so it’s really easy to include on any Copenhagen walking route.

If you’re there around 12:00, you can watch the daily changing of the Royal Guard. It’s very ceremonial, very Scandinavian, and yes – very Instagram.

Is The Little Mermaid Worth Seeing?

The Little Mermaid statue is one of the most famous landmarks in Copenhagen – and one of the most controversial with visitors. People imagine a giant dramatic sculpture… and then they get there and she’s tiny, sitting on a rock, surrounded by 40 tourists climbing over slippery stones for the same photo.

Here’s my honest take: if you’re walking, it’s a bit of a hike (about 20 minutes from Nyhavn), and it can feel underwhelming. BUT if you take a canal boat tour from Nyhavn, they swing right past her and slow down so you can take photos from the water. That’s the stress-free version.

So yes, see her – but do it from the boat. 

Hidden Gems in Copenhagen (Off the Beaten Path)

Amager Strandpark

Amager Strandpark is a long, sandy, manmade beach area about 10 minutes by metro from the city center. On a clear day, you get views of the Øresund Bridge that connects Denmark to Sweden, as well as the Turning Torso (the most iconic building in Malmö).

The Baltic Sea is… refreshing (let’s call it that), even in summer, but locals absolutely swim here. In warm weather, you’ll see people paddleboarding, kayaking, picnicking, or just walking the promenade.

If you’re visiting Copenhagen in summer and you want something that feels very ‘local life’ and totally free, come here.

Freetown Christiania

Christiania (Freetown Christiania) started in 1971 when a group of squatters/hippies basically took over old military barracks and declared their own ‘free town.’ It’s known for colorful street art, music venues, workshops, cafés, and a very alternative vibe.

Important for 2025:

• You’re still asked not to take photos in certain areas (especially around Pusher Street). Respect that.
• Police presence has increased over the years, so it’s calmer than its old Wild West reputation, but still use normal city sense.

Come during the day if it’s your first time. Grab a coffee, wander, look at the murals, and just people-watch. It’s a very different side of Copenhagen.

Nokken

Nokken is this semi-wild, handmade little pocket near Islands Brygge, full of quirky sheds, tiny gardens, and little houses that look like they were built out of whatever washed up on shore. It honestly feels like stumbling into a Scandinavian folk tale.

It’s perfect for a slow walk with a coffee or a sunset beer by the water. You can also bike along the waterfront paths here and follow the trails back toward the city center. Copenhagen is extremely bike-friendly, with dedicated cycle lanes almost everywhere, so even nervous cyclists can manage.

Frederiksberg Park

Photo source

If you want a less touristy green space, go to Frederiksberg Park, in the Frederiksberg neighborhood (a very elegant, residential area Copenhageners love).

The park has lakes, little canals, a Chinese Pavilion, and views of Frederiksberg Palace on the hill. On a sunny day, people picnic here for hours.

Copenhagen Zoo borders the park, so if you’re visiting with kids, this is an easy half-day: wander the park, pop into the Zoo, get ice cream, live your best Scandinavian summer life.

Where to eat in Copenhagen

Best Breakfast and Pastries in Copenhagen

Lagkaghuset

When in Denmark, you have to eat pastries. It’s non-negotiable.

My favorite spot is Lagkagehuset (internationally you’ll also see the name Ole & Steen – same chain). There are branches all over Copenhagen, so you’re never far from coffee and something warm and buttery.

Get a classic kanelsnegl (‘cinnamon snail’) or, my personal weakness, the Direktørsnegl, which is basically chocolate-filled happiness. Grab it to go and eat it by the canal. This is peak Copenhagen morning.

Granola

Granola, in Frederiksberg, is a super cute retro café that does proper sit-down breakfast: eggs, pancakes, French toast, and proper coffee. They also do cocktails later in the day, so yes, you can absolutely have brunch and then a drink in the same chair.

It’s popular with locals, so try to go earlier on weekends if you don’t want to wait.

Cozy Lunch and Cake (aka Peak Hygge)

Mormor’s

Mormor’s (mormor = grandma in Danish) is tiny, cozy, and does gigantic sandwiches that you basically have to unhinge your jaw to eat. It’s between Amalienborg and Nyhavn, so it’s perfect for a mid-sightseeing lunch stop or a warm-up on a cold/windy day. Think candles, vintage china, total hygge energy.

If you have a sweet tooth, go to Holms Bager. The cakes are outrageous in the best way, and it’s great for an afternoon coffee break.

Also, at some bakeries and cafés, you’ll see ‘smørrebrød’ – Danish open-faced sandwiches piled with things like shrimp, egg, or roast beef. If you see it, order it at least once. It’s very Danish.

Holms Bager

Oh my god, the cakes are just amazing here! If you have a sweet tooth like me, then you’ll think you’ve gone to heaven when you’ve entered Holms Bager!

Whether you’re looking for something for lunch, afternoon tea – or perhaps picking up a cake for dessert; this is one place you need to visit!

Street Food and Cheap Eats in Copenhagen

For an affordable dinner in Copenhagen (or just to try everything at once), go to the city’s street food markets.

Photo source

Reffen (also called Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food) is a huge outdoor food village made of shipping containers on Refshaleøen. You’ll find stalls selling everything from ramen to Moroccan tagine to Danish classics. It’s great in good weather and it’s where locals actually hang out, not just tourists.

If you don’t want to go that far, check out Broens Street Food (Broens Gadekøkken), just across the bridge from Nyhavn. You can grab a beer, share a few different dishes, sit by the water, and people-watch.

Both are way cheaper than sitting down for a full 3-course meal, and honestly, more fun if you’re traveling with friends or teens.

Dinner & Nightlife in Vesterbro (the Meatpacking District) 

Head to Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) for dinner and drinks. It’s old industrial buildings turned into bars, wine spots, and creative restaurants – super casual, very Copenhagen-cool.

I like Gorilla: it feels unpretentious and buzzy, and the menu leans Mediterranean – think fish, pasta, small plates to share. If you can’t decide, get the tasting menu of multiple dishes and just pass plates around the table.

After dinner, wander around the Meatpacking District for cocktails or craft beer. This area is one of the best places to go out in Copenhagen right now. 

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Where should you stay in Copenhagen? Here’s the short version:

• If you’re on a budget and want your own bathroom, stay near Copenhagen Central Station / Tivoli Gardens.
• If you want cute boutique hotel vibes and to be able to walk everywhere, stay near Strøget / City Hall Square.
• If you want more of a neighborhood feel (less touristy, more local cafés), look at Frederiksberg or Nørrebro.

Here are a few places I’ve personally stayed or loved: 

Cabinn City

If you’re visiting Copenhagen on a budget, Cabinn City is a lifesaver. Yes, the rooms are tiny (think cruise ship cabin vibes), but you get a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, and you’re a 5-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station and Tivoli Gardens.

This is perfect if you plan to be out all day and just need somewhere clean and central to sleep. Budget hotel + private bathroom in Copenhagen = rare.

First Hotel Kong Frederik

When I wanted something a bit more special, I stayed at First Hotel Kong Frederik. It’s a four-star boutique hotel just off Strøget, so you’re basically in the heart of the city – perfect if you want to be able to walk to nightlife, shopping, and most major sights.

The décor leans classic + luxe, and I loved that the minibar in the room had free sparkling water. We paid around £115 for one night on a deal, which for central Copenhagen felt like winning the lottery. I would 100% stay again for a romantic weekend or a birthday trip..

Avenue Hotel Copenhagen

If you want more of a ‘live like a local’ feeling, look at the Avenue Hotel. It’s in a more residential area between Frederiksberg and Nørrebro — two neighborhoods full of cafés, bars, and vintage shops.

They do a buffet breakfast you can eat on the terrace, and you can rent bikes directly from the hotel, which is honestly the best way to get around Copenhagen.

If you don’t feel like biking, the Forum metro station is close by, so you can be in the city center quickly.

Copenhagen Travel Tips (Read This Before You Go)

Copenhagen is one of the safest, most walkable capitals in Europe. I always feel comfortable walking around, even at night in most central areas. That said, a few things will make your trip smoother:

Bikes rule the road

Copenhageners LOVE their bikes. They have their own dedicated cycle lanes, and they are not just for fun – people commute this way. Look both ways before you step off the curb because getting yelled at by a very chic Dane on a bike is a core Copenhagen experience, but still.

Don’t walk in the bike lane.

The Little Mermaid is tiny

The Little Mermaid statue is iconic, but she’s also small and usually surrounded by a crowd. If you’re short on time, book a canal boat tour from Nyhavn instead of walking all the way there – the boats pull up close so you can get your photo without climbing rocks.

Cards over cash

Most places in Copenhagen take cards/mobile pay, even for tiny purchases. You don’t need a ton of cash.

Weather = layers

Even in summer, evenings can feel cool and windy by the water. Bring a light jacket, even in July. In winter and at Christmas (which is magical – Tivoli Gardens at Christmas is worth the trip alone), you’ll want proper warm layers and good shoes.

Book Tivoli in season

Tivoli has themed seasons (Summer, Halloween, Christmas). If you’re visiting in October or December, absolutely plan time for this. It’s incredibly atmospheric and very “only in Copenhagen.

FAQ: Planning Your Copenhagen Trip

Is Copenhagen expensive?

Copenhagen can feel pricey compared to a lot of Europe, especially for sit-down dinners and hotels. But you can hack it: stay somewhere budget-friendly like Cabinn City (small rooms, private bathroom, central location), eat at street food markets like Reffen or Broens Street Food instead of formal restaurants, and walk/bike instead of Uber.

What’s the best time to visit Copenhagen?

Summer (June–August) means long days, outdoor swimming at Amager Strandpark, and everyone sitting by the canals with a drink. December is also gorgeous because of the Christmas markets and Tivoli’s lights.

Is Copenhagen safe?

Yes. Copenhagen consistently ranks as one of the safest and most liveable cities. You still want normal city awareness (especially late at night and in crowded places), but overall, it feels extremely relaxed to walk around.

Do I need to rent a bike?

You don’t have to, but you’ll understand Copenhagen 10x better if you do. The city is flat and built for cyclists, and many hotels (like the Avenue Hotel) rent bikes to guests.

Can you do Copenhagen in one day?

If you only have one day in Copenhagen, do this loop: Nyhavn → canal boat tour → Amalienborg → Strøget → Rosenborg gardens → Tivoli Gardens at night. That gives you royal palaces, canals, design-y shopping streets, and full-on Copenhagen magic in 24 hours. 

My Conclusion

Copenhagen is genuinely one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s pretty without trying too hard, creative without being snobby, and somehow both chilled and buzzing at the same time.

Come for the colorful canals and palaces, stay for the bakery mornings, park picnics, and late-night street food with friends.

If you’re planning a trip to Denmark’s capital – whether it’s a full weekend in Copenhagen or just a 1-day stop before flying somewhere else in Europe – save this guide, share it with whoever you’re traveling with, and start building your own perfect Copenhagen itinerary.

About the author:

I’m Elle, and I blog over at Dressing Danishly. My two main passions are travel and fashion; and in my spare time you can usually find me travelling around Europe, hunting out the best shops and cocktail bars! Follow Elle’s travels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as well!

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