Copenhagen Itinerary: 8 Things You Absolutely Cannot Miss
Looking for a Copenhagen itinerary and tired of seeing those “100 things to do in Copenhagen” posts? Me too! That’s why I’ve created this 8 Things You Absolutely Cannot Miss for a handful of the world’s most popular towns.
Copenhagen is such a wonderful city, one that I have been luckily enough to visit multiple times. Since I conveniently have a few friends that live there, I have had wonderful local tour guides showing me around each time I have visited. They’ve even introduced me to things I normally would not spend time doing because it seemed too touristy (hi, Tivoli!) but ended up truly loving.
So if you are looking for the best Copenhagen travel blog itinerary - here are the 8 things you absolutely cannot miss!
HAVE PLANS TO VISIT OTHER CITIES, TOO? HERE ARE 8 THINGS YOU CANNOT MISS IN PARIS, GOTHENBURG, AMSTERDAM, POSITANO, LISBON, AND LONDON!
QUICK NOTE: below I have recommended many tours and activities, all via GetYourGuide. If you aren’t familiar, they are a trusted site and have lots of unique things to do, along with all of the standard touristy activities. Booking everything individually on different sites can be a bit of nightmare to keep track of. With GetYourGuide you can create an account to book and manage all of your tickets in one central location, even things like skip the line tickets to the very popular Tivoli Gardens. When I travel I personally book everything I do via GetYourGuide, which is why I am recommending it to you.
Most importantly, when you book through GetYourGuide you can cancel any booking up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. No additional fees, no questions asked. There’s no risk if you need to cancel, so I highly recommend booking everything now to be on the safe side. Especially because Copenhagen is very popular, as are many of the tours I recommend below, so they will absolutely sell out!
Copenhagen Itinerary: 8 Things You Absolutely Cannot Miss
See the City via Bike
Biking in Copenhagen is a way of life! So much so that 1.4 million km is cycled in the city of Copenhagen on average every weekday. It’s also widely regarded as the world’s most bike friendly city. Therefore, of course, you cannot visit Copenhagen without hopping on a bike at some point.
The best way to do this is via a bike tour. A bike tour is my favorite way to explore any new city because it’s open air (so you can see all the views unobstructed), it is faster than walking (so you can see more in a shorter amount of time), you get exercise, and it’s so much fun.
I specifically recommend going on your bike tour as early in your visit as possible. I find this to be imperative to get your bearings. Also, this way you will get a good high level overview of the city and be able to identify things you want to return to later in more detail. If you do it too late in your trip, you might not have time for that!
The tour I recommend is 3 hours (but leisurely, don’t worry!) and shows all of the city’s biggest highlights. Click here to check availability and reserve your spot.
Cocktails at Lidkoeb
Vesterbro is probably the most hip area in Copenhagen - an absolute Copenhagen must see item! It is my favorite part of the city (to stay, eat, drink, play) and home to my favorite place for cocktails: Lidkoeb.
Lidkoeb is located off famous Vesterbrogade Street in a building dating back to 1886. The bar opened in 2012 and has a cozy atmosphere and a wonderful selection of cocktails on a rotating menu. It is wonderful any time of year, as they offer outdoor seating (perfect for summer) and a beautiful interior (perfect for the colder months)!
Before or after drinks at Lidkoeb, grab dinner at Madklubben Vesterbro down the street. It is a beautifully designed urban space featuring a menu with food from all around the world and one of the top places to go in Copenhagen.
I learned while writing this that it is also the “most visited restaurant in Denmark”, and for good reason! Although the restaurant seats more than 300, it is incredibly popular and often books up completely so make sure to make reservations in advance. A definite can’t miss on your Copenhagen itinerary.
Photos via Lidkoeb.
Spend an Evening at Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park located in the center of Copenhagen. It is the type of thing that seems a bit like a tourist trap on paper but in reality is a complete blast and something to not miss on your Copenhagen itinerary! Even if you only have 2 days in Copenhagen I suggest going here. It is especially lovely at night.
PS. looking for things to do in Copenhagen in winter? Even though this is outdoors, don’t overlook it! We bundled up and went at night in winter and it was one of the most fun nights I have ever had.
Tivoli opened in 1843 which makes it the second oldest amusement park in the world. It still has a lot of old school charm, in my opinion, and feels like a carnival without the modern cheesiness we often see at parks these days. There is something there for everyone, from the upside rollercoaster "The Demon" and "The Golden Tower" dropping 63 meters in a few seconds to the classic carousel (which I might have gone on myself while the boys went on The Golden Tower).
If you are looking for a fun evening activity, the park is magical at night and stays open until 11 or midnight depending on time of year. In addition to rides there are also restaurants, concerts, and more.
There are a few different ticket options you can purchase. I recommend buying them now to avoid having to wait in a long line when you arrive.
The first option is a basic Tivoli Gardens entry ticket. It provides access to the park and allows you to skip the line when you arrive. Click here to book that.
The second option is a Tivoli Gardens entry ticket with unlimited rides. This provides skin the line entry to the park as well as access to unlimited rides in the theme park. If you plan to go on more than one or two rides, this is the ticket you should purchase. Click here to reserve your ticket!
There’s also a third option that includes only unlimited rides. If you’ve already purchased an entry ticket (like via the Copenhagen Card) and would like to book the unlimited rides pass, click here.
And Stay at Tivoli Gardens, Too!
Tivoli Gardens is also home to best hotel in Copenhagen, Nimb Hotel. If there is any availability at Nimb when you are planning to visit Copenhagen, I absolutely recommend staying here.
Go on a Copenhagen Boat Tour Of Nyhavn
Anyone who has seen photos of Copenhagen has likely seen Nyhavn, the famous colorful waterfront and arguably most iconic spot in the city. While I usually try to stick to non-cliche things, this is one of touristy spots that I think you absolutely cannot miss. If you are looking for what to see in Copenhagen in one day, you should not miss this item.
Originally a busy port, today Nyhavn is filled with restaurants housed in renovated homes lining the canal. It is a beautiful place to go for a quick stroll or hop on a canal cruise to relax and take in the scenery.
Click here to book the Nyhavn Copenhagen canal cruise I recommend!
Stay at Axel Guldsmeden
Axel Guldsmeden is an eco-conscious hotel located in my favorite neighborhood, Vesterbro! Even better, it is located just two blocks from the train station which you will more than likely arrive at (whether you come via train or plane). It is my #1 recommendation for where to stay in Copenhagen.
The entire hotel is beautifully decorated featuring southwestern decor and the bed was so comfortable I almost did not want to ever leave. There’s also an in-hotel restaurant which we did not visit but makes for a very convenient option if needed!
And, if you are up for a real treat, they have a Balinese-inspired spa that looks incredibly dreamy in their photos.
Brunch at Mad & Kaffe Vesterbro
Mad & Kaffe is a place I discovered during my first trip and fell in love with due to the fun breakfast concept. It is in my opinion one of the top things to do in Copenhagen. You get to create your own breakfast featuring any combination of items on the menu, selecting either 3 items, 5 items, or 7 items. The menu is split into different sections; “greens" such as 1/2 an avocado with chili oil and baked almonds, “dairy" like scrambled eggs with chives and mushrooms, “bakery” offering things like organic sourdough bread with organic butter, “meat and fish” including a chicken nugget with sweet and sour sauce, and more!
Sound amazing? It is! The only unfortunate thing being that it is apparently no secret because I went back this time and the wait was crazy. The waitress told us that they open at 8:30 and by 8:45 it is completely full so we headed back the next day at opening time and were able to score a table. By 8:45 every table was full and by the time we left the line outside was extremely long already.
If you do make it there and find the wait to be too long, check out Cafe Dyrehaven about half a block away. The avocado toast is delicious!
Eat street food on Paper Island (Papirøen)
On Paper Island (Papirøen) just across the bridge from Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s street food market. It offers beautiful views of the waterfront and 39 food and drink stalls from all around the world! The stalls themselves are inside, with seating options available both inside and out. Even on a cold day it is a wonderful place to visit and spend some time.
Try a traditional Danish pastry
While in Denmark, you must try a kanelsnurrer (English translation: cinnamon whirls)! Best place to try them? Meyers Bageri, a local chain started by a famous Danish chef. There are numerous locations around the city so check Google Maps to find the closest option for you.
Walk around Freetown Christiania
Christiania is, according to Visit Copenhagen, an "alternative hippie society". It is open to the public and incredibly interesting to explore. All of Christiania is completely green, car-free, and the people there follow their own set of rules completely independent of the Danish government. If you are looking for interesting things to see in Copenhagen, this is definitely one of them.
I don’t have any photos of it because you are not advised or permitted to photograph inside Christiania so make sure to keep that in mind if you do visit. Inside you will find many restaurants and if you are there during summer don’t miss Nemoland offering free concerts every Sunday.
Click below to book a tour. I would especially recommend the guided tour.
Day Trips from Copenhagen
If you have the time, there are some great day trips from Copenhagen that you can take! My favorite tour company, Get Your Guide, has some highly recommended options.
The best day trips from Copenhagen:
FREDERIKBORG AND KRONBORG CASTLES — want to see some spectacular fairytale castles? This full day tour from Copenhagen allows you to do just that! Click here to see the latest prices.
MALMO — did you know Copenhagen is incredibly close to Sweden? Why not visit yet another country while you're visiting! Click here to see the latest prices.
What to Pack for Copenhagen
Having the right travel gear is incredibly important for any trip, especially if you are visiting Europe from a different continent. Save yourself time and money by getting all of the necessary items prior to arriving at your destination. Some of the items I consider non-negotiable:
COMFORTABLE SHOES — I consider proper walking shoes to be the most important packing item for Europe. The last thing you want is to be mid-trip, with torn up feet, and out of options. Trust me, I’ve been there. My shoe recommendation is not the least expensive option on the market, but it’s definitely the best. Because they are handmade of such high quality, you can wear them all day everyday for weeks straight and not once will your feet hurt. They are the only shoes I have ever found that are this way (and trust me, I have tested out a lot). Just imagine being on your once in a lifetime trip, able to run around from sun up to sun down without a worry. That alone makes them worth every penny! I also love them because of their versatility. You can wear them with anything — jeans, leggings, skirts, dresses, anything! If they’re in stock in your size, get them while you still can. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.
For more shoe recommendations, click here for my current favorites (updated weekly).
BODYSUITS — If you haven’t already given into the bodysuit craze, now is the time! They are so comfortable, easy to throw on, and so perfect for travel because you don’t have to worry about adjusting your clothes ever while wearing one. There’s currently nothing I love wearing more. Click here to see my current favorites (updated weekly).
DRESSES — I love dresses for travel because you can so quickly throw it on and go. My favorite places to shop for dresses are here, here, here, and here. For cheaper options, I like here, and here. The cheaper sites can take a little more digging to find the good quality stuff, but sometimes it's worth it!
I also really love skirts, especially the current midi skirt trend. Click here to see my current favorites.
LIGHTWEIGHT TRAVEL CARDIGAN — This circle cardigan is honestly one of the best travel-related purchases you can make. It is so warm and soft; I’ve brought mine on every single trip since purchasing my first (I now own many). It's fantastic for literally everything: you can wear it during the day, out to dinner, on transit days, while hotel lounging, anywhere and everywhere! This is the number one top seller on my site every single month because it is truly the best. Click here to see the latest prices and color options.
CASHMERE WRAP — Another top seller on ckanani.com every single month is this oversized cashmere wrap. It’s something I personally carry in my bag every single day, whether I’m on the road or back at home in San Francisco. If you haven’t already noticed, I love versatility. I’d rather pay a little more for something high quality that’ll last a little longer and also work in a few different ways. I bet you’re a bit like me, so this is a must. You can wear it as a scarf, as a wrap when you find yourself at a surprisingly cold restaurant or flight, as a blanket, and more. I can’t tell you how many times this thing has saved me. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.
SUNGLASSES — Of course! I cannot believe I am about to say this but I’ve found a very cheap brand I recommend. Why is that shocking? Because I absolutely hate cheap sunglasses. I used to be a total sunglass snob and only buy $400 Saint Laurent, Dior, or Chanel sunglasses because the cheap ones feel horrible and don’t actually protect. Until now!! This brand I found on Amazon is under $15/pair and is shockingly impressive. I’ve bought four pairs so far. Click here for my favorite all black aviators, here for my rimless aviators, and here for my square ones.
LEATHER TOTE — I never, ever, ever travel without my leather zipper tote. It holds so much yet never feels as heavy as other bags! I even like it more than my Louis Vuitton Neverfull which cost 5X as much. There are a handful of popular bags that look similar to this one but the quality of this is unmatched. I’ve used mine every single day for 3+ years and it still looks perfect. Click here to check it out.
Traveling with a camera? Click here for the most stylish camera bags for women!
For nighttime or if you’re light traveler during the day too, I highly recommend this convertible clutch. It can be used as a wallet, a clutch, a crossbody bag, or a belt bag. The versatility is huge and it’s such a beautiful piece. I also love the design because unlike most similar bags, your cards and money won’t be loosely placed inside the bag, but actually attached to it. How’s that for secure?! Click here to see the latest prices and color options.
SKINCARE — Do not neglect your skin while traveling! I still can’t believe this exists, but Dermstore has a set with over $200 of professional skincare products for $49.99. I have purchased four so far, that’s how good it is. It contains every single step of a proper skincare routine: cleanser, exfoliant (2), antioxidant serum, hyaluronic acid serum, eye cream, SPF, and face oil. The oil alone costs $80 in the same size if bought individually. Mind blowing! They mentioned to me that there’s only a small number of the sets left so stock up if you find it’s still in stock. It’s great not just for travel but for at home too! Click here to check availability.
For more skincare and beauty recommendations, click here to follow me on Instagram @skincarethatilike.
GOLD LAYERING JEWELRY — Layering jewelry from SHOP CKANANI specifically. It’s my own shop so I'm a bit biased, of course, but hear me out. I’ve always loved jewelry but was tired of spending $60 on a necklace that would tarnish after 2-3 wears so I started making my own. I hand make them in my San Francisco apartment of incredibly high quality, primarily gold filled materials.
Gold filled items are great because they contain 100+ times (!) more real gold than gold plated items. An item being gold filled means that there is an actual layer of gold pressure bonded to another metal, making it much more valuable, durable, and tarnish resistant. This means it’s also perfect for everyday wear and for travel! Because who wants to spend their trip taking their jewelry on and off constantly? Not me!
After sharing pictures of necklaces and bracelets on my Instagram story, I finally gave in to the requests asking me to start selling my creations. And that’s how SHOP CKANANI was born! I’d really love and appreciate your support, especially if you’ve found the info in this post helpful :) Click here to see current availability.
HAIR ACCESSORIES — The easiest way to spice up a look with very minimal effort! Click here to see my current favorites (updated weekly).
HATS — Another great way to spice up a look, plus it’s a fantastic photo prop and can cover up a bad hair day. Click here to see my current favorites (updated weekly).
For more packing tips and tricks, click here to see all packing related posts.
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