A Travel Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark
- Brianna
- 3 days ago
- 8 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Copenhagen, Denmark has been named one of the happiest cities in the world for several years now, and I completely understand why--it feels like taking a deep breath. This capital city--known for its sustainability, food scene and modern architecture always felt calm and laid back in the absolute best way. Not to mention the city's commitment to sustainability is clear, the #1 sign being that majority of folks get around via bike or public transportation.
If you're someone who looks forward to delicious food, morning strolls to well-curated cafes, the fluffiest pastries, and all the best homeware and vintage stores you've come to the right place. Below I detail my travel guide on the city--from how to get there to the restaurants and activities that I enjoyed the most and recommend you try too.
*Several links below are of affiliate nature, meaning that a small commission may be received by myself when you purchase through them. This is in support of Black Girl Wanderer, to create more travel blogs for you to enjoy!
Table of Content
What to Pack (Besides the Basics)
Passport
Comfortable walking shoes
Water-proof clothing (since it's often rainy in Copenhagen, having a rain coat or poncho will be super helpful)
Compression socks (these are great for keeping good blood circulation in the legs during long flights)
Portable charger
Adaptor (Denmark most commonly uses Type E and K sockets)
Language & Currency
While the official language in Denmark is Danish, if you happen to only speak English there's no need to worry--you'll find the city is more than easy to navigate because majority of its citizens speak it as well. With that in mind, I always recommend learning at least a handful of common phrases/questions in a country's official language since it almost always makes your travel experience a better one.
The official currency of Denmark is the Danish Krone, which currently stands at 1 Danish Krone= 0.15 USD. Admittedly, I didn't take out any cash for this trip because everywhere we went had some form of card or cashless payment, but it never hurts to have some on hand just in case.
How to Get There
Flight
If flying in from the US, expect for your flight to range from 7.5 to 9.5 hours with your final destination being Kastrup Airport, AKA Copenhagen Airport (CPH).
Train
It is also very common to take trains in and out of Copenhagen from neighboring countries, most commonly Sweden, using the SJ train company. A common day trip from Copenhagen is a 30 minute train ride to Malmö, a small Swedish city known for its diverse architecture and quaint cafes.
Accommodation
For the 6 days total that I spent in Copenhagen, I stayed in three different accommodations. They were all chosen for different reasons (I'll go into more detail shortly) but considering Copenhagen can be pretty expensive--they were just what I was looking for and I'd highly recommend anyone to stay. All 3 are linked below if you're interested in booking!
This was my hotel for the bulk of my stay, and I wanted to make sure that I was in a great location but also felt comfortable. This hotel offered both! We had a great view of the nearby lake and most activities were only a short taxi ride or 20-30 minute walk. I love to explore cities on foot as much as possible, so that walking time wasn't a problem for me. The staff were helpful, friendly and even provided my friend and I with drink vouchers upon check in. There are also several options for food on the intentionally-designed property.
This adults-only stay was a one night splurge that I absolutely don't regret. When researching places to stay my friend came across the viral photos of their Junglefish pool and we were instantly hooked. After some research, we found the Full Manon Experience package on their direct website that included access to their sauna, pool and steam room, a 3 course dinner, champagne, and breakfast for two. The vibes of the hotel can be a bit romantic, but it's still a great stay for some solo wellness or for an elevated hotel experience with friends. A 100/10 experience that I'd love to experience again for more than just one night.
A perfect stay if you're looking for overnight comfort or if you'd like to be close to the airport, but within more elevated settings. One thing is for sure, Scandinavians know design and do it well. This hotel also has tons of amenities including an airport shuttle, terrace, spa and restaurant.
Transportation
Viggo/Bolt
If I wasn't using public transport or walking, I used the rideshare app Viggo to get around the city since Uber is not used there. As mentioned, things in Copenhagen can be pretty expensive, with a 10 minute ride costing $25-30 USD. Bolt is another rideshare option, but I didn't use it for my trip.
Metro
The Copenhagen Metro is a great way to get around the city for a lower cost, and covers all of central Copenhagen, into Frederiksberg and Tårnsby. Consider getting the Copenhagen Card - Discover because on top of the free entry to 80+ attractions, this also includes unlimited public transportation and covers your airport transfer. There are options for 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours.
Bike
Copenhagen is literally built for its citizens to commute easily and safely by bike, so getting a rental and doing as the locals do is another cost-saving and fun option to get around the city. I did my day of biking via a food tour, but they also have cost options for daily rentals here.
Fun Activities in Copenhagen
Visit Nyhavn
Did you even go to Copenhagen if you didn't visit Nyhavn? Just kidding. This waterfront entertainment district is a famous tourist destination for a reason--the colorful houses and nautical boats lined across the pier are so picturesque, and I'm sure that when you've researched Copenhagen some of the first pictures you see are of this district. Take a stroll and enjoy the vibes, then enjoy a good meal at one of the many restaurant options and end the day with something sweet (I suggest ice cream or gelato).
A great way to get in on the culture of Copenhagen is to take a tour that combines some of its most prominent sectors--food and biking! This 3-hour biking food tour by City Adventures Copenhagen was amazing; we tried a multitude of Danish goodies--from local beer, smørrebrød, to danish pastries and it was all delicious. Of course, you'll also be getting to each location via bike and getting a feel for one of the common ways to commute in the city. With all the food you'll be eating, the cardio in between is definitely needed.
Hop Around Different Bakeries/Cafes
The cafe culture in Copenhagen is top tier, so spending the day (or several, I'm not judging) visiting cafe after cafe, bakery after bakery is more than recommended. I got to visit La Cabra, Hart Bageri, Meyers Bageri, and Bagt, but there are tons more that are highly recommended like Juno and Anderson & Malliard that I'd like to try whenever I'm back in the city.
Visit the Round Tower
The Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is Europe's oldest functioning observatory building, built in 1637 but completed in 1642. One of the many architectural projects of Christian IV that was built as an astronomical observatory and known for its winding walkway and staircase. Towards the top there is also a room dedicated to astronomy and scientific phenomena. Another great spot for the history buff, science geek or even the friend that just wants an aesthetic picture. Entry tickets are not included on the Copenhagen Card, and start at 40 DKK for students and 60 DKK for adults).
Enjoy the Botanical Garden
Picnic anyone? The University of Copenhagen's Botanical Gardens are a dream. The grass is so green and so soft, you'll absolutely want to lie down and take a nap. Most people who visit will do just that, or enjoy time relaxing with loved ones alongside snacks and drinks. Entry to the Botanical Garden is free, but if you'd like to visit the Palm House and the Butterfly Garden--which I highly recommend, they cost 70 DKK for adults and 40 DKK for children/students at the entrance only. If you'd like to purchase online, tickets start at 115 DKK for adults but also include entry to Denmark's Natural History Museum.
Learn About the Monarchy at Christiansborg Palace
Christiansborg Palace housed kings and queens up until 1794, but now serves as the home for Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Ministry of State. This is a great place to visit for history buffs or anyone looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day (like us). The palace is beautiful and you can enter and view parts of the Royal Reception Rooms, The Royal Kitchen, the Royal Stables (yes, horses!!) and more. Ticket prices depend on what exactly you'd like to see, but if you want to see everything, go for the Combination Ticket, starting at $33 per adult. It is included on the Copenhagen Card, but only covers the Royal Reception Rooms. There is also a daily guided tour of the Royal Reception Rooms in English at 3pm.
Shop Homeware & Vintage
Copenhagen is well known for their homeware and vintage options, so definitely take advantage! I got a few kitchenware items from Studio Arhoj, but you can also check out HAY House, Notre Dame and Illums Bolighus.
A highlight of the trip was learning to make our own Danish pastries! This was an in-depth, 3.5 hour course that ended in us making 4 individual pastries at half-dozen each. Current cost for one person is 700 DK. The instructor was kind and so knowledgeable--and you'll have more than enough of your hard work to enjoy and share with others by the end of it.
Eat & Drink
The Olive- Perfectly named since all of its dishes incorporate olive oil in some form or fashion, and it was all very delicious. The salmon tartare and the Passionate Lychee cocktail were the winners for me!
Tivoli Food Hall - Food Halls have been gaining more and more popularity, and of course Copenhagen is in on the concept as well! A great spot if you're looking for multiple options. I went will Cocks & Cows since I was craving a chicken sandwich. 10/10!
Kompa'9- This cafe is a cottagecore lovers dream, and the food--although simple, was super fresh and satisfying. Go with their morgenkomplet, their version of a full danish breakfast. Sooo so good.
Bento Copenhagen- I am not afraid to admit that I'm ALWAYS down for asian cuisine, and this small Japanese izakaya hit the spot. The owner was the absolute sweetest and the tonkatsu set I ordered tasted like literal perfection. 10/10, no notes.
Il Rosmarino- An italian restaurant located in Nyhavn, that I admit is a bit touristy, but worth a try! I got their Linguine Al Segreto Del Mare (essentially, a seafood linguine) that I give a 7/10.
No Stress Bar- A great bar to just catch a vibe with bartenders who are both charismatic and understand the art of mixology. I got a "hot step mom" and while the name threw me a bit, the drink itself was deliciously sweet with a kick at the end.
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