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9 must-sees in Copenhagen

All capitals have their classic sights - the things you just have to see and do - and Copenhagen is no different. We will guide you to some of Copenhagen's most iconic attractions and experiences, from Nyhavn to Tivoli, Strøget and Amalienborg, so you can tick them off on your list.

Tivoli Gardens: A worldclass amusement park

Tivoli is the most popular attraction in all of Denmark for a reason. Over 4 million visit the park every year and it is not surprising considering how much Tivoli has to offer. Come for the wonderful atmosphere, the wild rides, the restaurants and the concerts. Tivoli is also open during Halloween and autumn holidays, Christmas and New Year and their new winter season in February.

Nyhavn: A Danish Classic

The name Copenhagen comes from the words for "Merchant Harbor" for a reason. Nyhavn used to be one of the hubs for the ship merchants of yesteryear. With its colorful facades, Nyhavn is a compulsory stop on the classic list. Although it may be busy with tourists from all corners of the world, finding a place on one of the many outdoor dining venues is usually easy. Sit down and enjoy a sandwich and a cold beer and indulge in some primo people-watching. Christmas time opens with a cozy Christmas market in Nyhavn, the epitome of hygge.

Amalienborg: The Queen's palace

Amalienborg Palace is the Queen's residence in Copenhagen. The palace consists of four separate rococo palaces around a square, two of which are open to the public. One houses a museum where you can view almost 400 years of royal history in the form of paintings and other objects, and in the second you can get a close look at what the Danish royal residence is like on the inside. Do not miss the changing of the guard that happens every day at 12 noon.

Strøget: Copenhagen's shopping street

Strøget is the central pedestrian street at the center of Copenhagen's major shopping area. There's everything you could want nearby, from budget options and small independent shops to some of the world's most exclusive brands. The stretches and the many small side streets are full of shops, cafes and restaurants with something for all tastes. If you want to shop for classic Danish design, you can visit Georg Jensen, Royal Copenhagen or Illums Bolighus.

Canal tour: See the city from the water

When the weather is nice, a canal tour is a great way to see iconic sights around Copenhagen. Jump on at Nyhavn or near Christiansborg and follow a tour that takes you past the Opera House, The Black Diamond library and The Little Mermaid sitting on its rock. You continue through Christianshavn's cozy canals, full of houseboats and lined with charming old buildings. 

The Round Tower: Copenhagen's historic vantage point

The Round Tower, built in the 17th century, is Europe's oldest functioning observatory and is used extensively by amateur astronomers. Once you get to the top via the spiral ramp, you'll see a striking view of Copenhagen from a viewing platform running around the tower. Horses used to drag carts loaded with books up to the university library at the top, hence the spiral ramp instead of stairs.

Rosenborg Castle: A Renaissance gem in the middle of town

Rosenborg Castle is a 400-year-old Renaissance castle located in the center of Copenhagen. In addition to the beautiful exterior and the royal palace park, there is a lot to discover inside the castle. Inside, you can see three life-size silver lions keeping watch, and do not miss the Danish crown jewels that can only be worn by the Queen and only when they are within the borders of the country.

Christiania: Copenhagen's free town

Christiania is a colorful and controversial area in Copenhagen that is definitely worth a visit. The sanctuary was started as a social experiment in the 70's but has survived and is today a popular excursion destination for both tourists and Copenhageners. There are several good cafes and restaurants where you hang for a while and look at the people's life after a walk among the hilarious and odd houses of Christiania.

Please note that some visitors may find Christiania, particularly the area around Pusher Street, to be rough. For your own safety, we recommend that follow the Do's and Don'ts signs up at the entrances and refrain yourself from taking any photos or videos.

Smørrebrød: Classic Danish Food

We finish this list with a dish that is as iconic as Tivoli or The Little Mermaid, namely the smørrebrød (sounds kind of like "smuurreh-bruuldt"). Try this delicious open-faced sandwich at one of Copenhagen's restaurants for the perfect end to your trip. The hardest part might be choosing where to eat, like the popular Aamanns or at Schønnemanns, one of Copenhagen's oldest restaurants.

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Copenhagen Travel Guide Tips: Best Things to Do and See

Maritime flair , hip cafés and Scandinavian cosiness – welcome to Copenhagen! Copenhagen really is a great city for a getaway. The city has a simple charm and is not repeatedly named as being one of the most liveable cities in the world for nothing.

We have been guests in the Danish capital city several times now – and each time we fall a little more in love with Copenhagen. It’s about time we put together our personal Copenhagen tips for you on our travel blog. So it follows: Our big Copenhagen travel guide with all the highlights, our favourite spots and personal travel tips.

1. City trip to Copenhagen: Overview of initial travel tips & info

2. copenhagen travel guide: best things to do and see, 3. day trip tips for copenhagen, 4. eating and drinking: tips for restaurants & cafés in copenhagen, 5. our hotel tip for copenhagen.

Copenhagen seems to be the perfect combination of everything we love in a city: Lots of water, plenty of greenery, imposing buildings and a cosy atmosphere. There is even a name for it in Denmark: Hygge . Copenhagen is beautifully hygge.

What else do you need to know about Copenhagen? We have gathered the most important points for you:

• Copenhagen is located by the sea . This gives the Scandinavian city a maritime flair, that is also reflected in the cuisine, for example.
• Unfortunately, Copenhagen is quite expensive . This starts with the accommodation prices and carries on to the restaurants. So it’s best to allow a little more budget for your city trip.
• People love cycling in Copenhagen. The city is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in Europe. If you like, you can hire a bike when you’re there to explore the city.
• The weather in Copenhagen can be quite variable. Generally, we recommend summer as the best travel time (June to August). Although the temperatures are pleasantly mild during that time, it is hardly ever gets properly hot.

How many days should I spend in Copenhagen?

We recommend all those who are new to Copenhagen to plan to stay at least three nights . The city is not gigantic, so you can easily explore the main attractions and corners in Copenhagen during this time.

Of course, more time is always good. So, if you would prefer to have a relaxing stay then feel free to stay longer. Copenhagen will also definitely not get boring if you stay 4 or 5 nights – that way it also allows time for some day trips. (Of course, we reveal our tips further down in this travel guide.)

Nyhavn: THE postcard motif in Copenhagen

What is the best way to start a trip to the city of Copenhagen? Our suggestion: With a stroll through Nyhavn (in English: “New Port”). With its colourful, crooked houses , Nyhavn is quite rightfully Copenhagen’s most popular photo motif.

Nyhavn is anything but a secret. Or (to put it in other words): The area is the most touristy spot in Copenhagen. They try to entice you into boat tours, or a restaurant visit on every corner. But if you move slightly out of the hustle and bustle, then you can enjoy Nyhavn in a more relaxed manner. Our tip for anyone who wants to experience Nyhavn in peace: Come in the morning!

The Little Mermaid: Copenhagen’s landmark

Surprisingly small & a little unspectacular – this is the initial impression of many people who stand before the little mermaid for the first time. The little mermaid really lives up to her name. At around 125cm high, she is one of the smallest landmarks in the world.

The bronze statue at Copenhagen’s port exudes a calm presence despite all the crowds, which fascinated us in a strange way. She sits just a few metres from the shore on a rock. The little mermaid was built based on the fairytale of the same name by the most famous Danish author, Hans Christian Anderson .

Tip #1 : You can quite easily walk from Nyhavn to the little mermaid. The stroll along the shore is really nice and highly recommended. (You also pass by the Amalienborg palace – more about this soon.)

Tip #2 : Very close by the little mermaid are St. Alban’s Church and Copenhagen Castle. Definitely take a walk through – this fortress with its pretty windmill is an oasis of calm. Entrance is free.

Castles in Copenhagen

As hip and modern as Copenhagen can be – the royal flair is difficult to miss. There are some castles and palaces in Copenhagen that are well worth a visit. The following three castle are the most well-known in Copenhagen:

• Amalienborg Palace: This is where Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II lives. You can tell if she’s home by the Danish flag waving on the roof. Then at midday they also have the changing of the guard – one spectacle that you shouldn’t miss if you’re there.
• Rosenborg Castle: This castle is one of the most beautiful sights in Copenhagen. You can find it on the edge of a lovely, landscaped garden. There are several state rooms to admire inside the castle. The Rosenborg Castle is also well worth viewing just from the outside.
• Christiansborg Palace: All good things come in threes. You can find Christiansborg Palace right in the middle of the city centre. Today it is the seat of the Danish Parliament. Just like the other two, you can also view the castle interior.

Our tip : Entry into all three castles is free when you have the Copenhagen Card. So if you are interested in these attractions, purchasing the Copenhagen Card could be worth it.

Frederik’s Church

When standing in front of Amalienborg Palace, Frederik’s Church is hard to miss. Frederik’s Church, with its imposing dome, is one of the most important sacred buildings in Copenhagen. It is also known by the name, the Marbel Church .

You should definitely take a peek inside the church. The architecture is very impressive. Entrance into the church is free. There is only a small admission fee to climb the dome.

Torvehallerne

We present: One of our absolute favourite places in all of Copenhagen and our tip number one for all the foodies. Here in this covered, architecturally beautiful market hall you can purchase fresh food and Danish delicacies. It is very relaxed and stylish here – so don’t expect to find a hectic market.

The best part: There are also a lot of stalls in Torvehallerne where you can either directly enjoy dishes or take them to go. Our tip: Laura’s Bakery has incredible cinnamon rolls. GRØD is popular for breakfast and the Coffee Collective has great coffee.

Christiania

Strange but true: In Copenhagen there is a self-proclaimed free state called Christiania. In the 70s hippies settled on this former military land. Today it is supposedly the largest commune in the world.

But what can you expect in Christiania? To be honest: A very unusual flair with a slightly depressing mood . Yes, Christiania is colourful and quirky where you will find great street art and creative houses. But somehow, we haven’t been able to shake this rather strange feeling on all our visits (there have been several).

The centre of Christiania is Pusher Street. This is where drug dealing takes place on the street. Taking photos along Pusher Street is strictly forbidden. (You should absolutely adhere to this!) But otherwise, you don’t need to worry about safety and you can visit Christiania without any problems.

The Round Tower (Rundetårn)

You shouldn’t leave Copenhagen without seeing the city from above. One of the most famous viewing points in Copenhagen is the Rundetårn (Round Tower in English), which is located right in the city centre.

The architecture is what makes the tower so special: Not a small staircase but a wide, spiral ramp (also said to have been used by horse-drawn carriages once upon a time) takes you up to the top. (Important to know: At the end there is still a small ladder to climb. So, the tower is not without its barriers.)

After the unusual ascent (which is especially a highlight for architecture fans), a really beautiful view over Copenhagen awaits you in all directions. The wrought iron railing makes it easy to take photos through.

Entrance: 40 DKK (free with the Copenhagen Card ) Opening times & more info: Rundetårn (official website)

Assistens Cemetery

A rather unusual attraction in Copenhagen is located north of the city, more precisely in the Nørrebro district. Assistens Cemetery (called “Assistens Kirkegård” in Danish) is the most well-known cemetery in Copenhagen. There are countless famous people buried here, including for example the author Hans Christian Andersen or the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard.

Here you can find not only a cemetery, but also quite an extensive park . The locals use the cemetery park for long walks or jogging. So, if you would like to spend some time out in the greenery, then we can highly recommend a visit to Assistens Cemetery.  

Day trip to Sweden: One day in Malmö

Sit down in the train – and bam, a good 30 minutes later you’re in a different country . The thought that Sweden is only a hop and a skip away from Copenhagen couldn’t escape us, so we decided on taking a wee trip to Malmö.

Getting there from Copenhagen

Just the trip from Copenhagen to Malmö is something special in itself: Here you cross the legendary Øresund Bridge , which connects Denmark and Sweden with each other.

We ourselves took the train , but it is also possible to take a bus. The train ride from Copenhagen Train Station takes around 40 minutes and costs about 13 euros (one-way). The train station in Malmö is centrally located, so you can simply start exploring the city on foot.

Attractions in Malmö

It is best to start your day trip in Malmö’s pretty old town, called Gamla Staden . The old town is a picturesque mix of colourful houses, brick buildings and paved alleyways. Places worth seeing include Lilla Tor or the Stortorget.

In the west of the old town lies the second main attraction in Malmö: the castle (Malmöhus) with its two surrounding parks ( Slottsträdgården and Kungsparken ). An oasis of peace, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll.

It is not very far from the castle to the most well-known market in Malmö, Malmö Saluhall . Here you can buy fresh food in this very stylish and calm market hall as well as sit down in one of the small restaurants and cafés they have there.

In case you still have time you could, for example, make a stopover at the futuristic city library , or take a detour to Västra Hamnen . Here a modern and innovative district was developed at a former shipping yard site. Västra Hamnen is said to be climate neutral and one of the most exclusive residential areas in Malmö. You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or taste your way around the great cafés.

Day trip to the beach

Lonely dunes & the sound of waves – how does that sound? If you are drawn to nature, then we can highly recommend this trip to the beach. There are many beaches close to Copenhagen which you can visit. Important to know: It is very rarely properly hot in Denmark – so if you want to jump in, it may take some convincing.

Beach tips close to Copenhagen

• Amager Strandpark: The largest and most well-known beach around Copenhagen is located in this protected local recreation area. You can reach the beach from the city centre on the subway. In summer it can be quite crowded.
• Ishøy Beach: This beach is more peaceful and natural. Perfect for a bit of that Baltic Sea feeling.

The good news first: Copenhagen is a paradise for foodies ! Here they have an incredible amount of hip eateries, and you can – if you like – spend the whole day feasting your way from one café to the next.

The bad news: The prices are not very cheap. For an ordinary restaurant, you will need to allow for around 15 to 20 euro for a main meal. That’s not ideal and you could easily spend around 60 to 80 euros for a dinner for two people.

The following two specialties are typical Danish food and found all over Copenhagen:

• Smørrebrød: Which sounds fancy, is really ‘just’ rye bread. But there are no limits to creativity when it comes to the choice of ingredients.
• Hot Dog: Of course, how could it be any other way? Danish hot dogs are sold at small stalls around the streets of Copenhagen. Luckily, there are now more and more vegetarian hot dogs, e.g. as found at DØP.

Favourite culinary spots in Copenhagen

Reffen: This great street food market takes place at a former shipping yard area. Here in the colourful containers, you can try delicious food from all over the world. From tacos to Smørrebrød, from Hawaii to Nepal, whether meat or vegan – there is really something for everyone. Highly recommended!

Paludan Bog & Café: Eating breakfast between the books! In café Paludan you are seated in the middle of a bookstore. We can recommend a visit just for the unusual location alone. They have breakfast, lunch dishes and a whole range of cakes and slices. The prices are moderate by Danish standards. 

Mother: This very (!) hyped up restaurant serves what is said to be the best pizza in Copenhagen. Whether that is true, we cannot say, but we definitely enjoyed it. Important: The wait times are especially long during the weekend. It is best to reserve a table!

GRØD: Grød translated means porridge and this café specializes in exactly that. Here you can put together your favourite porridge yourself with a wide variety of toppings. There are now many locations in Copenhagen – including the Torvehallerne. A really great tip for a healthy and not to expensive breakfast or lunch meal.  

Vaekst: Young Scandinavian cooking of the highest quality in a really cool location – if that is what you are searching for, then get yourself to Vaekst. They serve a three-course meal here every evening. The restaurant is highly praised for its vegetarian version of the menu. Here you are seated in a kind of greenhouse – pretty cool.

Flottenheimer: Do you want to enjoy a simple lunch in the city centre? Then we recommend this cosy café. They have international dishes on the menu, such as burgers and sandwiches.

Are you looking for a great boutique hotel for your city trip to Copenhagen? Then we can only warmly recommend Hotel Skt Petri .

The rooms are elegant and very comfortably arranged with a very comfortable bed. Small tip: Make sure that you don’t choose a room with a window on the inside. This can be clearly seen in the description.

The hotel location could hardly be any better for a city trip to Copenhagen. You are situated right in the centre and many sights are within walking distance (such as Nyhavn, the Rundetårn or the Torvehallerne).

Our conclusion: The range of affordable, yet stylish boutique hotels in Copenhagen is unfortunately limited. However, Hotel Skt Petri is really an exception and highly recommendable.

You can book the hotel here: Hotel Skt Petri

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

We are curious: Have you already been to Copenhagen? How did you like the city? Do you have some additional tips for Copenhagen? We really look forward to hearing about your experiences in the comments.

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Copenhagen   Travel Guide

19 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark

Although you won't hear about Copenhagen as often compared to cities like Paris or London , the Danish capital is full of wonderful sights and experiences to treasure. Beyond the traditional tourist sights   –   Tivoli Gardens ,  The Little Mermaid and

• All Things To Do

Nyhavn Nyhavn free

Situated in the central Indre By neighborhood, this bustling area once served as Copenhagen's commercial port. Today, the region features a variety of eateries inside its restored homes, some of which were built in the late 1600s. In fact, a few famous artists and writers formerly lived in Nyhavn, including Heinrich Gustav Ferdinand Holm (a painter and engraver best known for his Copenhagen depictions) and Hans Christian Andersen (who penned fairy tales like "The Little Mermaid" and "The Ugly Duckling").

Previous visitors loved grabbing a drink or bite to eat in Nyhavn, although some cautioned that prices here are high and that it was touristy. Additionally, several raved about the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, which takes place in Nyhavn every July. Many past travelers also recommended signing up for one of the area's canal tours with Stromma Denmark or Netto-Badene . Both operators' tours are available in English, last about an hour and depart daily from Nyhavn. Stromma Danmark's tours cost 129 Danish kroner (roughly $19) for adults and 60 kroner (approximately $9) for kids ages 6 to 15, while Netto-Badene's tours will set you back 8 euros (about $10) per adult and 3 euros (less than $4) for each child.

Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot) Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab a bite at the neighboring Elsinore Street Food Market, where you can enjoy Moroccan tagine, Mexican tacos, Argentinian empanadas and more. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Though you'll have to trek 30 miles north of Copenhagen to reach Kronborg Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed structure in Helsingør can't be missed. Built in 1574, this Renaissance-style castle played a strategic role in Danish politics and commerce thanks to its location by the Sound Dues. The property also famously served as the setting for Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Unique features you'll find here include a 197-foot-long ballroom, a collection of 16th-century tapestries and the casemates, underground passages once used to protect soldiers and horses during wars.

Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot) Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)

Located on Castle Island in Copenhagen's Indre By neighborhood, Christiansborg Palace houses offices for Denmark's queen, Parliament and prime minister. Rebuilt in 1928 after the two former palaces burned down, the current structure sits atop ruins from the original palace. Rooms inside the present-day palace include the Royal Stables, a 19th-century chapel, the Throne Room and a dining hall.

Visitors praise this palace's interesting exhibits and stunning architecture, adding that the property's tower offers breathtaking city vistas. To make the most of your visit, travelers recommend getting a ticket that allows access to all four entry points: the castle, ruins, Royal Kitchen and stables.

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Vesterbro Vesterbro free

U.S. News Insider Tip: When the weather permits, take a swim at Islands Brygge Harbour Bath. This open air swimming spot is popular with both locals and visitors. It's just over the canal from Vesterbro, easily accessible by foot or cycle. - Sarah Lempa

Hip and happening Vesterbro was formerly known as Copenhagen's red light district. Today, visitors can enjoy an eclectic mix of a classy restaurant scene, unique boutiques, buzzy nightlife venues – and a few lingering adult shops and strip bars. Vesterbro's Meatpacking District is notorious for throwing a good party, a place where you'll find everything from chill breweries to thumping clubs, plus a range of cuisine from food stands to fancy eateries with impressively designed dishes. It's a place to see and be seen, where the event calendar is full and the socialites frequent. If you're in the mood to stay out until sunrise, this is the place for you.

Rosenborg Castle Rosenborg Castle

Located west of Frederiksstaden, Rosenborg Castle was constructed during the Dutch Renaissance and completed in 1633 by King Christian IV. Today, visitors can see how the royal lived during that time, including the speaking tubes (the medieval version of intercom systems), the dining halls and the chamber where the king died in 1648. 

A favorite of past visitors was the castle's collection of Danish crown jewels. Many also raved about the property's superb architecture, though some wished there was more information displayed in each exhibit. Others suggested saving time for relaxing in the on-site garden. 

Amalienborg Palace Amalienborg Palace

Right in the heart of Copenhagen lies Amalienborg Palace: a rich piece of Danish history where you can explore the royal grounds and learn about past decades in the on-site Amalienborg Museum. Every day, visitors can witness the changing of the royal guards at noon as they return from the barracks near Rosenborg Castle back to the palace. It's a sight to see, and so is the actual palace. Four ornately designed buildings – Christian VII's Palace, Frederik VIII's Palace, Christian IX's Palace, and Christian VIII's Palace – make up the grounds. In Christian VIII's Palace, you'll find the Amalienborg Museum which allows you to view the interior, more private rooms of the palace.

Amalienborg Palace remains the official residence for Denmark's royal family to this day, which makes it quite an interesting visit – a place where both centuries past and present moment collide. History buffs will particularly adore this attraction, not to mention everyone else who will more than likely enjoy a stroll around the stately grounds. Recent visitors had positive things to say about the changing of the guards, along with the architecture and overall palace presentation.

Copenhagen Walking Tours Copenhagen Walking Tours

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If your legs tire, rent a GoBoat and become the captain of your own canal cruise. I'd highly recommend packing a picnic for the ride with a few friends.– Sarah Lempa

Copenhagen's relatively small size and concentration of noteworthy sights in the central Indre By district make it easy to explore on foot. Available walking tours range from food-focused experiences with tastings to traditional walks that delve into the city's history.

National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet)

The National Museum of Denmark is considered one of Europe's best museums. It presents the broad spectrum of the country's history – from the days of the Vikings to the Danish Renaissance to the welfare state of the late 20th century. The museum's immense collection also includes artifacts from Danish pre-history, Egyptian mummies and coin exhibits from ancient Greece and Rome. It also features a separate children's museum that offers interactive exhibits for little ones, plus other sites throughout Denmark, including the Museum of Danish Resistance, located just north of Amalienborg Palace .

Past travelers described this museum as well-organized and informative, with an impressive amount of artifacts from around the globe. They found it to be well-maintained and easy to navigate.

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Tivoli Gardens Tivoli Gardens

Located just inside Indre By's southwestern boundary – a short walk from  Strøget  – is Tivoli Gardens. First opened in 1843, this property is now one of Europe's most visited theme parks, featuring an assortment of restaurants, theaters and dance halls. Younger children will enjoy the rides, games and shows in Rasmus Klumps World, but there are plenty more attractions for kids of all ages, including a restored roller coaster that was originally built in 1914. When you're not getting your thrills on the rides, stroll through a Chinese-inspired bamboo forest or the Nimb water fountains to admire the marine animals in the aquarium and more. The property also hosts ballets, concerts and other live performances.

Recent visitors said the rides and light installations (which are available every winter) are not to be missed, but some were disappointed with the high prices (rides require extra fees). Others noted that if you plan to visit in winter, do so during Christmastime, as the park and rides close from January to March.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

If you're a fan of art and archaeology, then you'll love perusing Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek's exhibits. Founded in 1888, this museum and research institute houses more than 10,000 pieces, including portrait heads from ancient Greece and 19th-century French sculptures. Famous artists represented here range from post-impressionist painter Paul Gauguin to sculptor Auguste Rodin.

According to past visitors, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek offers an impressive collection that you can easily spend hours viewing. Previous museumgoers also enjoyed grabbing a coffee or bite to eat at the on-site cafe, citing its charming location by the property's Winter Garden as one of the main reasons to return.

Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) free

One of Denmark's most iconic religious sites is the Church of Our Saviour in Christianshavn. Built in the 1680s and opened in 1696, this Palladian-style church was designed by Danish architect Lambert van Haven. Inside, you'll find a carillon with 48 bells, an organ built in 1698 and an altar that depicts a scene from the New Testament. But the church's standout detail is its oak spire. Created by Danish architect Lauritz de Thurah, the impressive spire features an outdoor spiral staircase, gilded iron rails and a gilded statue of Christ on a globe.

Travelers rave about the Church of Our Saviour's architecture, with many saying that the property's biggest draw is the view from its spire. If you want to climb the spire's staircase, time your visit on a calm, sunny day between late February and mid-December, since the spire closes every winter and on windy, snowy or rainy days. Visitors also suggest arriving early to enjoy more elbow room during your climb.

Round Tower (Rundetaarn) Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

Located a few blocks north of  Strøget  in downtown Copenhagen, the Round Tower, completed in 1642, is one of the city's many landmarks built during King Christian IV's reign in the 17th century. Designed as an astronomy observatory, the tower still serves that function in some capacity but is best known for its spectacular city views. The building also features the Library Hall, an exhibition space and event venue.

Visitors say this tower is an architectural marvel, adding that its sunset panoramas are especially breathtaking. But if you're out of shape, some caution that the climb to the top might be a little strenuous.

Botanical Garden - University of Copenhagen Botanical Garden - University of Copenhagen free

Relaxing and well-kept, the Botanical Garden at the University of Copenhagen is a welcoming place of respite in the heart of the city. As a part of the Natural History Museum, it holds the largest collection of living plants in all of Denmark. The Palm House, a Victorian-style building in the center of the garden, houses subtropical and tropical plants. There's also the Butterfly House within Palm House, which lives up to its namesake with butterflies of all types from chrysalis to flying in the air.

The winding paths of the gardens make it a formidable place to take a walk, read a book, or just hang out in the quiet. Well-shaded and lined with plant life of all types, there's always something new to stop and take a look at. Recent viewers praised the calming atmosphere of the garden, urging fellow travelers to take a break from the city life to enjoy some greenery. They raved about visiting on a sunny summer's day, but also encouraged year-round visits to take in the indoor plant life that stays vibrant even in the winter.

Politically Incorrect Beer Walk

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Refshaleøen Refshaleøen free

For more than a century, Refshaleøen was merely a shipyard. Nowadays, the former industrial zone is a trendy area home to creative arts, cuisine of all backgrounds, and leisure areas to enjoy the outdoors. Makeover is an understatement – this district has now become a major social area, drawing both locals and travelers. The landmass of Refshaleøen is actually an island just northeast of Copenhagen's city center, jutting out onto the water across from the Langelinie pier.

Stop by Reffen , a well-loved street food market with plenty of options ranging from Danish to Nepalese, Greek, Mexican, and more. Art lovers will delight in Copenhagen Contemporary , a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits. And for the adventurous souls: Copenhagen Cable Park offers an opportunity to try water sports in a safe environment.

Strøget Strøget free

U.S. News Insider Tip: When you're ready for a break from the touristy areas, hang out in Superkilen , a creatively designed park in Nørrebro. With a concrete hill decorated by wavy white lines and plenty of space to hang out, it's worth a visit. - Sarah Lempa

Situated in Indre By between H. C. Andersens Boulevard and King's New Square (to the west and east, respectively), Strøget is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and Copenhagen's largest shopping area. It contains a series of interconnected streets that are lined with numerous boutiques and cafes. You'll find upscale brands like Burberry, Gucci and Louis Vuitton here, so make sure to bring your credit card.

The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) free

One of Copenhagen's most iconic, yet petite, attractions is its Little Mermaid statue. Located just south of Langelinie pier in Østerbro, the statue is based on the fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen. It is made of bronze and granite, and has been a fixture on Copenhagen's waterfront since 1913.

Although some visitors say this statue is a bit underwhelming to see, others recommend making the trek to it, citing its harbor view as its best feature. Tourists regularly flock here, so if you're hoping for a photo op, consider arriving early or late in the day.

ARKEN Museum of Modern Art ARKEN Museum of Modern Art

The ARKEN Museum of Modern Art sits right on the Køge Bay waterfront. This museum is surrounded by shorelines, and offers a tranquil break from the sidewalks and cycling paths of central Copenhagen. Not only is it full of unique exhibitions from both Danish and international artists, the building itself is a work of art. It was designed to mimic a ship, which is fitting considering Ishøj Beach is just steps away. The art exhibitions range from immersive installations to sculpture, video and digital art. Plus, rotating exhibits means there's always something new here.

Travelers loved the combination between modern art and nature, plus the on-site cafe and overall atmosphere of the museum. Many described it as a must-see when in Copenhagen, especially since it's quite easy to get to.

Freetown Christiania Freetown Christiania free

Ever-so intriguing, Freetown Christiania is actually a controversial part of Copenhagen due to its completely different set of rules – resulting from the fact that it's completely independent of the Danish government. Within the hippie community that calls Christiania home, cannabis trade is abundant and accepted. You'll find a list of rules near the district's main entrance on Pusher Street, one of which is a zero-tolerance policy for violence.

The area was formerly a military base, which was abandoned, leading to it sitting empty for many years. In the early 1970s, people began squatting there – resulting in an entire community of around 1,000 with their own rules and regulations separate from the Danish government. Within Christiania's walls, you'll find plenty of creativity, art, community social gatherings, cafes, and restaurants. The buildings are colorful, often adorned with murals and other artwork.

Malmö & Lund Tour, Crossing the Øresund Bridge to Sweden

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Copenhagen Private Guided tour by Car with Tailorable Itinerary

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Guided Bike Tour in Wonderful Copenhagen

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Kastellet Kastellet free

Copenhagen's citadel, Kastellet, is one of the better preserved fortresses in the northern part of Europe. This star-shaped landmass is easy to spot on the map, commonly inducing curiosity of most who see it online before visiting in person. This 17th century fortress is accompanied by barracks, a church, plus a museum – although walking around the grounds feels like an entire museum visit in and of itself. Between the architecture and the waterfront location, exploring the grounds by foot is the best way to experience Kastellet.

Visitors described Kastellet as even better in person, a worthwhile addition to any itinerary in Copenhagen. On the shoreline, you can also see the famous Den Lille Havfrue – The Little Mermaid sculpture created by Edvard Eriksen.  Just south lies Langelinieparken, an open grassy area right on the waterfront.

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The 20 best things to do in Copenhagen

The best things to do in Copenhagen showcase the highlights of a rather magnificent place, from open sandwiches to intricate architecture

You could spend a week in Copenhagen and never run out of things to do, but even three days is enough to take in much of the city’s culture. The best way to do it? Hire a bike. The attractions here are close together enough to walk, but a bike is the done thing here. Trust us. 

Once you’ve got your two wheels, you’re good to go. Start with some of Copenhagen’s world-leading museums and galleries, before getting lunch at one of its fabulous food markets. Have afternoon drinks by the river, book dinner at one of its best restaurants , and spend the evening exploring its ever-expanding nightlife scene. And we’ve got everything you need right here on our itinerary. Here are the best things to do in Copenhagen. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 How to spend a perfect weekend in Copenhagen 🍸 The best bars in Copenhagen 🏘️ Where to stay in Copenhagen 🛌 The best   Airbnbs in Copenhagen

This guide was last updated by Miriam Gradel , a writer based in Copenhagen. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

What to do in Copenhagen

1.  ny carlsberg glyptotek.

A world-renowned art and sculpture museum in central Copenhagen housing Carl Jacobsen’s private collection of art and artefacts through 6000 years. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek  is one of Copenhagen’s most treasured museums, found right at the heart of the city. It’s been open to the public since 1897 and is renowned for its extensive collections of Mediterranean antiques and 19th-century art (among the biggest collections in the world). Exhibitions range from Ancient Egypt to the works of Manet and van Gogh, as well as sculptures from Greece, Denmark and France.

Why is it worth it?  Come for the art, and stay for the ambience – outside is a glass-domed Winter Garden, adorned with palm trees, statues and a trickling fountain and a cosy cafe from which to take it all in. Entry is free on the last Wednesday of each month.

2.  Tivoli Gardens

There’s fun for all the family at Copenhagen’s world-famous amusement park, which has stood on this site for more than 175 years and even inspired a certain Walt Disney. Adrenaline junkies will love the rides — including one of the world’s oldest wooden rollercoasters, constructed in 1914. 

Why is it worth it?  It’s not just the rides you should come here for: there's thrills to be found in Tivoli’s seasonal decorations, floral displays, fountains, carousels, lanterns and old-fashioned carnival games.

3.  Statens Museum for Kunst

Denmark’s national art museum  SMK  is home to an immense collection of Danish and European works dating from the 1300s to the present day. It's  Copenhagen’s most sizeable cultural attraction, and an excellent way to acquaint yourself with some of Denmark’s best-known works of art, including the masterpieces of the Danish Golden Age and Vilhelm Hammershøi’s highly influential interiors of 19th-century Copenhagen.

Why is it worth it?  All its exhibitions are great, but the 20th and 21st-century collection, housed in a striking modern extension, is fantastic. Plus, with its simple but scrumptious menu, SMK’s beautiful café provides the perfect pit stop.

4.  Nyhavn

With its pastel-hued, 17th-century merchants’ houses, Nyhavn is Copenhagen at its picture-postcard finest. And  yes, it’s a tourist trap – but it’s a gorgeous one and well worth visiting if only to get the obligatory shot of its brightly coloured houses (three of which were once home to fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen).  Nyhavn is also a great place to join a canal tour or set off on a stroll.

Why is it worth it?  You can spend all day here. If you're hungry, there’s a bustling food market home to  POPL , where you can try a Noma burger . And to escape the crowds, pop into Kunsthal Charlottenborg , a baroque building on Nyhavn’s south side, home to a contemporary art gallery and a beautiful café, Apollo.

5.  Rosenborg Castle

This fairytale castle is one of Copenhagen’s oldest royal parks.  Built as a summer residence for Christian IV, the spectacular Renaissance castle Rosenborg Slot is home to the Danish crown jewels, several lavish rooms and a priceless wine collection.

Why is it worth it? The castle’s leafy surrounds are also delightful: the King’s Gardens (Kongens Have) is a much-loved green oasis where you’ll find a decent café, two pétanque pistes, a charming puppet theatre, and plenty of space for picnicking. 

6.  Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art  is an impeccably designed, impeccably located museum with a world-beating modern art collection. Visit for the art;  Louisiana’s permanent collection comprises more than 4,000 works produced since 1945, including pieces by Picasso and Giacometti, while its Sculpture Park houses work by Alexander Calder and Henry Moore.  There’s also Louisiana’s idyllic location by the coast, overlooking Øresund and with views of Sweden . Finally, there’s its gift shop, packed with classic and contemporary Danish designs, plus a wide selection of books and exhibition posters.

Why is it worth it?  Remember to bring your camera: the building itself is considered a significant work of Danish modernist architecture. 

7.  Cycle around the Havneringen (Harbour Ring)

To feel like a local, jump on a bicycle . Thanks to Copenhagen’s world-class cycling infrastructure, including miles of segregated bike lanes, peddling around the Danish capital is easy-peasy – and almost always the fastest way from A to B. The Harbour Ring (Havneringen) is a 13km marked route that takes in an array of big-hitting sights. You’ll discover how well-connected Copenhagen is. Just remember to stick to the city’s cycling rules.

Why is it worth it?  You'll whizz past eye-catching waterfront architecture such as the Black Diamond library extension, cross the city’s much-loved harbour bridges – such as artist Olafur Eliasson’s spectacular Circle Bridge and the elevated Cycle Snake – and catch some fresh air at the Amager Fælled nature reserve. 

8.  Superkilen

Superkilen is a 33,000-square-foot urban park designed with the help of the surrounding community. It  celebrates the multicultural melting pot that is Norrebrø and exemplifies the power of inclusive design. Constructed in 2012, it stretches for close to a kilometre through one of Denmark’s most ethnically and economically diverse neighbourhoods and contains more than 60 objects  that reflect the area’s diversity.

Why is it worth it?   Superkilen is all about the detail.  Look out for swing benches from Iraq, a boxing ring from Thailand, a slide from Chernobyl  and rubbish bins from Blackpool.

9.  Smørrebrød restaurants

Practically synonymous with Danish cuisine,  smørrebrød  comprises thin slices of rye bread topped with ingredients like pickled herring, battered plaice and chicken salad. Though you’ll find dozens of  smørrebrød  joints across the capital, it’s worth splurging and picking a place that uses fresh seasonal ingredients. Our favourites include old-school specialist  Kronborg , vegan-friendly Schønnemann  and  Aamanns 1921 , set in a historic building in the centre and happy to pair your dish with a glass of homemade snaps.

Why is it worth it?   Difficult to pronounce (try ‘smurr-brull’), Denmark’s classic open-faced sandwiches are a traditional lunchtime dish every visitor should try. 

10.  Copenhagen Botanical Garden

Located in the city centre since 1870 and home to more than 13,000 plant species, Copenhagen's Botanical Garden  is the greenest place in town.  Highlights include a rhododendron garden, rock gardens featuring plants native to Europe’s mountainous regions, and the Palm House. The historic victorian green house features a terrace from which there is a grand view of the entire garden. During summer, visitors can also explore the garden’s butterfly house, and there’s a small shop selling plants and seeds, allowing you to take home some botanical magic as a souvenir.

Why is it worth it? I t’s ideal for a peaceful, leisurely stroll when you want to escape the crowds.

More great things to do in Copenhagen

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Copenhagen

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to Copenhagen.

Best Hotels

Best things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, how to get there, best times to visit, neighborhoods to know, how to get around.

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

Named one of the best places to travel in 2023 by Travel + Leisure , Copenhagen continues to draw in tourists with its exceptional food, history, and architecture. The city was officially named the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. On top of its newly recognized architectural prowess, the city continues to wow tourists with its tried-and-true offerings — whether that's dining at Noma, the Michelin three-starred restaurant that announced its closure in winter 2024, or strolling the always-popular Tivoli Gardens.

Here, is your essential Copenhagen guide for the city's best hotels , things to do, restaurants, and so much more.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest operating theme park in the world.
• Jægersborggade Street is lined with some of the best shops in Copenhagen, including a famous ceramics boutique.
• The Alchemist keeps guests entertained with performance art and multi-sensory decor while they dine on nearly 50 courses.
• CopenHill is Copenhagen's first ski area and features the world's tallest climbing wall.
• Spend the night at TheKrane — its only room is inside an old coal crane and hangs 49 feet above the ground.

Coco Hotel is the hottest new spot in Denmark's capital city. Not only was it voted as the best hotel in Copenhagen by T+L readers in 2022, it also was named one of the best new hotels in the world in 2022 by T+L editors. The 88-room boutique hotel features bold colors, a European-style cafe, and complimentary bikes for guests. It also makes an effort to be green-conscious, planting a fruit tree somewhere around the world every time a guest checks in and running its facility on a private solar-powered grid.

Hotel d'Angleterre

Hotel d'Angleterre is an iconic, 265-year-old hotel — and it was voted one of the best in Copenhagen by T+L readers in 2022. The charming hotel features modern Nordic design and expansive views of Kongens Nytorv from the suite balconies. With a heated indoor pool — the only one in the city center — and Michelin-starred dining, you might never want to leave. The concierge also offers plenty of V.I.P. experiences for their guests, including cooking classes and history tours.

Sanders Hotel

A tranquil retreat in the center of town, the Sanders Hotel is one of the best stays in Copenhagen, with "midcentury modern touches [that] imbue its 54 rooms with a sense of casual cool," Peter Terzian, T+L features editor, previously reported in the 2022 World's Best Awards. It offers an extensive array of amenities, including loaner bikes for guests (don't forget to ask for a prepared picnic basket) and a glass-encased rooftop terrace that serves up delicious breakfast and gorgeous city views. Be sure to book one of the hotel's exclusive excursions, which includes a backstage pass to the Royal Theater — a short two-minute walk away — or a private guided trip down the nearby canals in a vintage mahogany boat.

There is exactly one guest room at TheKrane , which is why T+L called it one of the coolest hotels in Copenhagen . The room is inside an old coal crane that dates back to 1944 and hangs 49 feet above the ground on Nordhavn's industrial waterfront. A night's stay comes with a hefty price tag, but it includes more than just a place to rest your head — guests will love the complimentary on-site spa, prearranged airport pickup, and daily breakfast.

The Happiness Museum

Denmark, named the second happiest country in the world in 2023, is home to the world's very first happiness museum . Opened in 2020, the museum features several different exhibits on how other countries perceive happiness.

CopenHill is Copenhagen's first ski area — carefully constructed atop a waste management center for the city. In the summer months, visitors can also hike, run, or tackle the world's tallest climbing wall at this urban recreation destination.

Frederiksborg Castle

Located on three islands, surrounded by lush gardens and a large lake, Frederiksborg Castle is a perfect day trip from Copenhagen. The castle is also home to the Museum of National History, which traces 500 years of Danish history through art, furniture, sculptures, and more.

Tivoli Gardens

Don't let the word "gardens" fool you, this expansive park is home to one of the best theme parks in Europe , open from mid-April to mid-September. In the winter, there's still plenty to see and do, with a whimsical Christmas market, over-the-top decorations, and stunning lights. There are plenty of shops and restaurants on the grounds as well.

Read More: 20 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, From a Palace Visit to Waterfront Strolls

Illums Bolighus

A design aficionado's dream, Illums Bolighus is your one-stop shop for Danish design. With top interiors brands, this is a great under-the-radar spot to snag some memorable souvenirs.

Jægersborggade Street

This buzzy street is home to some of the best shops in Copenhagen. You can find vintage clothing, organic produce, and 40 art galleries. Make sure to check out the ceramics boutiques, including Keramiker Inge Vincents, known for its hand-shaped porcelain.

Prefer to do some tax-free shopping before returning to the airport? Visit megastore Magasin , a department store with a fashionable, vintage feel and plenty of variety. The store started in 1869, and it's still a popular choice among locals because it stays open later than most department stores.

Noma is one of the most famous restaurants in the world, and after a 20-year run, head chef René Redzepi recently announced it will close at the end of 2024. So, eat there while you still can. The Michelin three-starred restaurant's menu changes with the seasons, focusing on vegetarian fare in the summer, game and forest-inspired food in the fall, and seafood in the late winter/early spring.

At the Alchemist , one of the hardest reservations in Copenhagen, "guests enter through an ominous, hand-sculpted door made from two tons of bronze," reported Christina Liao recently in T+L. Food reporter Liao called it one of the best dining experiences in the world and said diners can expect nearly 50 courses surrounded by performance art and immersive, multi-sensory decor.

Alouette is a hidden gem on the Danish dining scene — behind an unobtrusive garage door and past a graffiti-covered hallway lies a surprisingly bright Michelin-starred restaurant that serves a set five-course menu. The menu changes weekly with a focus on small producers and seasonal ingredients.

Copenhagen is best reached by flying into its international airport, which T+L readers voted as one of the  best international airports  in the world in 2022. Copenhagen Airport serves over 100 destinations and is the biggest airport in Denmark.

You can also travel to and from other major European cities, including London, Paris, and Stockholm, aboard  Rail Europe  trains or buses. A train ride from London to Copenhagen will take almost 15 hours, while a bus ride could take up to 35 hours, with multiple stops and long transfers.

The best time to visit Copenhagen is April, May, and September if you're after warmer weather and longer days. You'll encounter fewer crowds than in the peak summer months, but can still enjoy similar temperatures. However, some of the best festivals happen from June to August — like the  Copenhagen Jazz Festival , which takes place every July.

Copenhagen in December is the prime hygge (cozy) and Christmas market season. Travelers can head to the Tivoli Gardens for a gorgeous holiday light display. If you can't make it in December, you can still enjoy a light show in February when the city hosts its now-annual Copenhagen Light Festival .

Read More: The Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Great Weather, Lower Prices, and Fewer Crowds

City Center: Copenhagen's City Center is where you'll find hotels like Hotel d'Angleterre and Nyhavn, the waterfront district "tailor-made for Instagram, with colorful townhouses and boats bobbing in the canals," Lindsay Cohn, a T+L contributor, previously reported . This area is home to CPH's top attractions, including Kongens Nytorv, the largest public square in the city.

Frederiksberg: Frederiksberg is another tourist hot spot within Copenhagen and is home to terrific shopping and attractions like the Frederiksberg Palace and the Copenhagen Zoo.

Nørrebro: Northeast of the city center, Nørrebro is "the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen," architect Camilla van Deurs told T+L recently . You'll find some of Copenhagen's best pan-Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants here.

Vesterbro/Kødbyen: Vesterbro was once considered Copenhagen's red light district. It's known for its nightlife, but there are also charming, residential, family-friendly areas in the neighborhood, as well. Within Vesterbro, you'll find Kødbyen, otherwise known as Copenhagen's meatpacking district.

Christianshavn: Technically a cluster of small islands, Christianshavn is teeming with waterways and charming, colorful row homes. Here, you can rent boats or kayaks to explore the canals or take a dip in one of Copenhagen's harbor baths.

Train, bus, and metro: Copenhagen's public transportation network unites trains, buses, and metros in one easy-to-understand system. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks at the airport and throughout the city, on the DOT Mobilbilletter app , or online , with prices varying by zone. You can also purchase a City Pass , which will give you unlimited access to specific zones depending on which one you purchase. Download the Rejseplanen app to see public transportation schedules with minute-by-minute updates.

Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Copenhagen. If you need a cab, there are several companies, like Dantaxi , you can contact directly for pickup.

Car service: If you don't want a taxi, you can book town car or black car services with companies like Sixt to help you get around, or use the zero-emission ride-sharing service Viggo . Copenhagen is not serviced by Uber or Lyft.

Bikes: Copenhagen is a city best explored by bike. In fact, according to the Copenhagen Tourism website , 49 percent of locals commute to work on bikes. Plan your ride around the city's many biking routes and bridges, or try to tackle the bike route used in the 2022 Tour de France Grand Départ, which took place in Copenhagen.

Related Articles

Copenhagen Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 14, 2024

As the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen ( København in Danish) has a long and rich history. It was the center of the Danish empire for hundreds of years, and, as such, it is home to numerous palaces, historic buildings, and cultural relics.

But modern Copenhagen is not a city steeped in the past. The town’s classic architecture and canals are juxtaposed by excellent infrastructure, new buildings, and a high-tech transit system.

I’ve been here a dozen times and never get tired of my visits. The city is beautiful, clean, green, and the locals are always fun to hang out with. There is a spirit and vibe that screams “life is wonderful here.” It’s infectious and will have you wondering why more places aren’t like this.

Denmark is constantly voted as one of the best and happiest countries in the world and, after visiting Copenhagen, it’s easy to see why. The quality of life here is incredible.

Use this travel guide to Copenhagen to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Copenhagen

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in copenhagen.

1. Explore Freetown Christiania

This intentional community/would-be micronation has been around since the 1970s. Most people come to hang out and smoke the weed openly sold here (though in recent years, the locals have pushed out the drug dealers, decreasing drug sales by around 75%). There are also several small shops as well as two breweries here. The community is one of the biggest draws in the country and welcomes 500,000 visitors each year. Come for the cool beer gardens, people-watching, and colorful murals. Photography is discouraged by the locals though.

2. Cycle around the city

Renting a bike is the easiest way to explore the city — it’s how the locals travel. In fact, there are more bikes in the city than people (and five times as many bikes than cars!). Bikes can be rented all around the city using the Donkey Republic app and stations, with prices per hour (19 DKK) or per day (around 129 DKK). For guided bike tours , expect to pay 300-350 DKK. Most tours last 2-3 hours and include all the main highlights. You’ll pass sights like Tivoli Gardens, Christansborg Palace, and Nyhavn. There are usually breaks built in so you can learn about the city and take a rest.

3. Take a boat tour

The canals and harbor of Copenhagen are very beautiful (and super clean. You can actually see the bottom of the canals). Hour-long boat tours leave from Nyhavn and, while “touristy,” you will find a surprising number of locals on them drinking a beer on a sunny day. You’ll get a chance to see the city from a different perspective on the water and learn more about the iconic sights and more off-the-beaten path spots. It was one of my favorite activities. Tours range from 119-400 DKK per person.

4. Have fun at Tivoli

Opened in 1843, Tivoli is an amusement park in the center of the city. While it may not be the most popular place for everyday travelers, I had a blast here, especially playing bumper cars with my friends and drinking beer. Complete with a Ferris wheel, games, roller coasters, and a concert hall, this is an awesome place to spend an afternoon. Avoid the weekend and school holidays when the place is overflowing with families. Weekday admission is 160 DKK and weekends cost 180 DKK.

5. Hang out in Nørrebro

This is one of the city’s coolest areas. It’s the most culturally diverse part of Copenhagen. The whole area is full of art and funky boutiques. Trendy bars and shops sit right next to dive bars and cheap kebab shops, so spend some time strolling the streets and taking in the eclectic sights. Grab a cocktail at The Barking Dog, or check out the music venues/nightclub Rust. Have a wander through Assistens Cemetery, an old churchyard that’s been turned into a city park. Superkilen park is a unique community space that has separate areas dedicated to cafes and music, fountains and greenery, and a skatepark.

Other Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. see the christiansborg palace ruins.

Christiansborg Palace is the home of Denmark’s parliament and the Prime Minister’s office. Located underneath the parliamentary palace are the ruins of Bishop Absalon’s fortress, which dates back to 1167. It’s dark and damp down there, giving it a very crypt-like and ancient feel. I was really impressed with the detailed information provided about the fortress and its evolution to its current palace form. Admission is 195 DKK, however, it’s free with the Copenhagen Card.

2. Visit Round Tower

Rundetaarn (The Round Tower) is a 17th-century tower that was built as an observatory. It’s actually the oldest functioning observatory in Europe. The interior acts as a museum with rotating exhibitions on various scientific and artistic topics. There are even special events held in the space, like a night dedicated to music at the top of the tower. And through a long, tiring walk to the top, it provides a sweeping view of the old part of Copenhagen. The stairs are actually equestrian stairs, which means they are built in such a way that horses and mules can navigate them (probably to bring up equipment to the top). The tower is 34.8 meters (114 feet) from the ground and you’ll go through more than seven full turns of the spiral to reach the top. Admission is 40 DKK.

3. See the Church of Our Saviour

Located near Christiania, this church is worth seeing for its giant spiraling bell tower. The interior of the church is rather ordinary and features a few interesting paintings, but the winding tower is what makes it worthwhile. It has always been regarded as something of a test of manhood to climb up and touch the globe on the summit, nearly 350 feet up in the air. You’ll have to climb 400 steps to get to there, but the view from the top is worth the effort. The first half of the climb is inside, but the rest is outside so take the weather into consideration. Admission is 69 DKK. Tickets are limited so book in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the summer.

4. Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Experience

Hans Christian Andersen is the famous author of numerous classic children’s stories, including The Little Mermaid, The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling, and more. While this place is designed for children and features Disney-like displays and sets, I really enjoyed it. Inside, you learn about his life and can read all of Andersen’s tales, which were a lot shorter and darker than I had thought. It was quite an eye-opener — Disney lied to me all these years! Admission is 206 DKK for adults and 139 DKK for children.

5. See the National Museum

Established in 1807, this museum covers over 14,000 years of history in Denmark, from the Ice Age and the Vikings all the way to the present. There are all kinds of cool artifacts from the Viking era, like helmets, shields, and pieces of the silver treasures captured during raids, along with lots of neat historical tidbits. Exhibitions cover prehistory, the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the royal collection of coins and metals, indigenous art, ancient Greece and Rome, and more. You’ll enjoy the plentiful natural light in the building too from the windowed ceiling. The museum has rotating temporary exhibitions as well. Admission is 130 DKK.

6. Explore the Danish National Gallery

The Danish National Gallery has an incredible collection of art from the likes of Rembrandt, Picasso, Matisse, and other masters. There are over 9,000 paintings in their collection and several hundred thousand other works. Established in 1896, there are also a number of paintings by Danish artists from the “Golden Age” (1800-1850). Some 40,000 items from the collection are available online in their virtual museum as well. Admission is 130 DKK and free for anyone under 18.

7. Experience the nightlife

Copenhagen has a variety of pubs, lounges, and clubs. This city doesn’t start pumping until about 1am and goes very late. I would try to spend at least one night out. For nightclubs, check out Culture Box, which has three different rooms playing separate genres of music to dance to. If dancing isn’t your thing and you’d much rather sip some delicious drinks, try K-Bar, Lidkoeb, and Gensyn Bar. Just be prepared to splurge as alcohol isn’t cheap here!

8. See the Little Mermaid

A homage to one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved characters, this bronze statue may be small, but it’s worth taking the time to see. Expect there to be a crowd — it’s a popular attraction! It takes about twenty minutes to walk from Nyhavn, but the views along the waterfront are wonderful. You’ll get to see the unique opera house across the way and the Kastellet Park is right there as well. Also, don’t miss the nearby Gefion Fountain. It features a sculpture of the Norse goddess Gefion (goddess of unmarried women) plowing the land with oxen (Norse mythology states that she created the land that is Denmark after plowing it with her oxen).

9. Relax in Kastellet Park

Kastellet fortress was built in 1664 to guard the city. It’s one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. The citadel was built in a pentagon and is still an active military installation. Inside there were numerous barracks as well as a windmill, church, and other outbuildings. Today, it’s a public park and cultural monument. The park has relaxing gardens, plenty of trees, and tranquil ponds surrounding it. It’s a popular spot for locals to walk and jog as you can also walk along the ramparts. It’s right near the Little Mermaid and is a wonderful place to relax on a warm day with a book and a picnic.

10. Shop at a flea market

In the summer months, there are numerous flea markets around the city that are perfect for browsing. Many are open just on the weekends and offer an assortment of odds and ends. Nørrebro Flea Market is Denmark’s longest and narrowest, stretching 333 meters (1,092 feet) near Assistens Cemetery on Nørrebrogade. Other markets worth checking out are Frederiksberg Loppemarked, Gentofte Loppemarked, and Ritas Blå Lopper.

11. Day trip to Malmö

For a day trip, consider visiting Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city. It’s under an hour away and you can spend some time strolling around the historic city center. Make a stop at one of the many cafes surrounding Lilla Torg, the old town square. You’ll also get to cross the famous Øresund Bridge, a landmark made famous by the hit Scandinavian crime drama The Bridge ( Broen in Danish). Relax for a bit on the sandy shores of Ribersborg Beach where you’ll get epic views of the Øresund Bridge. Don’t miss the Stortorget market (which is over 500 years old) and Malmö Castle.

12. Explore Roskilde

Known as the ancient city of Denmark, Roskilde was Denmark’s capital from 960 to 1536. Located just 40 minutes from the city by car (30 minutes by train), this is an amazing city to view the country’s history, whether it be the 12th century Roskilde Domkirke cathedral; Sankt Laurentius, the 16th-century bell tower, or the Viking Ship Museum, which has five original Viking longships on display. It plays host to Europe’s largest music festival every June and the Roskilde Cathedral is the most famous in the country as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

13. Relax at the botanical gardens

These gardens span over 24 acres right in the middle of the city. The greenhouses date back to the 1870s and are home to over 13,000 plants and flowers (some of which are over 200 years old). Don’t miss the Arctic “greenhouse” which uses air conditioning to simulate conditions in the arctic so its arctic plants can thrive. There’s also a butterfly house with hundreds of butterflies you can visit. Admission to the gardens is free, while some of the buildings start at 70 DKK to access (free with the Copenhagen Card).

14. Visit Rosenborg Castle

This Renaissance castle was built by Christian IV at the start of the 17th century. The palace was the official royal residence until 1710 and has all kinds of royal artifacts on display, such as the Danish crown, the crown jewels, three life-sized lion statues, and the coronation throne. The interior is incredibly lavish with all kinds of ornate designs, murals, tapestries, and art. It has a very over-the-top feel similar to places like Versailles in France. Admission is 140 DKK and free with the Copenhagen Card.

15. Take a canal tour

One of the best ways to take in the city is by boat. Cruise around the city’s canals and learn about Copenhagen’s past and the important role the canals played in its development. Most include stops at Copenhagen’s main sights, including The Copenhagen Opera House, Christiansborg Palace, and the Little Mermaid. Tours cost around 110 DKK and are free with the Copenhagen Card.

How to Stay Safe in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a safe place to backpack and travel. Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world so violent incidents are rare. Your only real concern is petty theft but even that is super rare. Just keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, be sure to follow standard safety precautions (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific information about a place, check out one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

While cannabis used to be openly sold in Freetown Christiania, ever since a shooting in 2016 the trade has been more or less forced out of sight. Avoid buying drugs here and make sure you do not take photos of anyone using or selling drugs either.

If you plan on cycling through the city, be sure to wear a helmet and always lock your bike so it does not get stolen.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase quality travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a lot of hostels. They’re all pretty comfortable and sociable. There are also budget hotels and even campgrounds. These are some of my recommended places to stay in the city:

• Urban House Copenhagen
• Woodah Boutique Hostel
• Steel House Copenhagen
• Urban Camper Copenhagen
• Hotel Bethel
• Hotel Sct. Thomas

For more suggestions, check out my complete lists of the best hostels and the best hotels in Copenhagen .

Copenhagen Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – 150–250 DKK per night
• Hostel private rooms – 675 DKK per night
• Budget hotels – 600–850 DKK per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 500–800 DKK per night
• Airbnb apartments – 700–900 DKK per night
• Campsite – 85 DKK per night
• Pre-made sandwiches – 100–115 DKK
• Sit-down restaurants – 400 DKK
• Casual take-out places – 75–150 DKK
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 100 DKK
• Beer – 60 DKK
• Cappuccino/latte- 44 DKK
• Bottled water – 20 DKK
• Groceries for a week – 400–500 DKK

Copenhagen Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 550 dkk per day.

On a backpacker budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm or camp, cook all of your meals, and use public transportation to get around. To save, limit your drinking and do mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying the parks. If you want to drink more, add another 100–200 DKK per day.

Midrange – 1,375 DKK Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple of drinks here and there, and take the occasional taxi. This gives you room to do some paid activities like visiting museums and castles and going on a canal tour.

Upscale – 2,300 DKK Per Day

On this budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, do as many activities as you’d like, and take taxis (or rent a car) to get around. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Copenhagen is an expensive city in an expensive country. You’ll spend a lot here if you aren’t careful. If you find cheap accommodation, stick to happy hours, and cook your meals, you’ll be able to cut your costs a lot without limiting too much of what you do in the city. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Copenhagen:

• Get the Copenhagen Card – If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and visit a lot of attractions then I highly recommend you get the Copenhagen Card. It offers discounts and free admission to museums and attractions and includes free transportation. Cards are offered for 24 hours (500 DKK), 48 hours (745 DKK), 72 hours ( 926 DKK), 96 hours (1,072 DKK), and 120 hours (1,205 DKK).
• Take a free walking tour – One of my favorite ways to start a trip is with a free walking tour. You get to see all the main sites while chatting with an expert local guide. Copenhagen Free Walking Tours offers a comprehensive free tour that serves as an excellent intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Refill your water bottle – The water in Denmark is safe to drink and is held to very high standards. Skip buying bottled water here and refill your bottle instead. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can always be sure your water is clean and safe.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards so you can use the points to pay for accommodation when you travel. You’ll get at least 1-2 night free with most cards when you sign up, which can significantly lower your costs. This post can help you get started with the basics so you can start earning points today and have plenty for your trip.
• Eat on the street – Street stalls sell hot dogs and sausages for cheap. To eat on a budget, stick to them.
• Get a Hostelling International card – Danhostel.dk is the national accredited Hostelling International network. They operate 60+ hotels throughout the country so you’ll want to get an HI card if you plan on staying at their hostels during your stay. If purchased in Denmark, HI cards are 160 DKK.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Copenhagen is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find really friendly Couchsurfing hosts. This way, you not only have a place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Cook your food – Eating out in Copenhagen is not cheap, and since Danish food isn’t going to win any notable culinary awards, you won’t miss much by cooking your own food. If you must eat out, do so during lunch when specials and buffet deals make restaurants reasonably priced.
• Book in advance – When leaving the city, book your train and bus tickets a month in advance to save you up to 50%.

How to Get Around in Copenhagen

Public transportation – In Copenhagen, the Rejsekort ticket system provides access to the metro, bus, and train. Ticket prices are based on different zones with a two-zone ticket costing 24 DKK.

Timed tickets are also available, offering unlimited travel for set periods. They cost 80 DKK for 24 hours, 150 DKK for 48 hours, and 200 DKK for 72 hours. But if you purchase the Copenhagen Card (city tourism card), public transportation is free.

A ticket from downtown Copenhagen to the airport is 36 DKK each way.

Taxi – Taxis are expensive and should be avoided. Prices vary by the days and times you travel (weekends are more expensive). Rates start at 39-49 DKK and go up 11-15 DKK per kilometer. There are no rideshares here like Uber and Lyft so taxis are your only option in a pinch. I suggest avoiding them as much as possible since they are pricey!

Bicycle – Renting a bike is the easiest way to explore the city. Bikes can be rented all around the city, starting around 125 DKK per day. Helmets are not included and cost 40 DKK extra. Donkey Republic (the city’s bike-share program) costs 1 DKK per minute and has over 130 stations around the city. Other companies are Copenhagen Bicycle and Baisikeli, which both offer rentals.

Car rental – You don’t need a car to get around the city, however, they can be helpful for exploring the region (though public transportation can pretty much get you everywhere). You can find rentals for as little as 150 DKK per day. To rent a car in Denmark, you need to be 19 and have had your license for at least one year.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Copenhagen

Since Copenhagen is a coastal town, its temperature is heavily influenced by the sea. The city has mild summers and cold winters, with lots of daylight hours in the summer and significantly less in the winter.

Winters average around 1°-2°C (33°-36°F), so dress accordingly. Sunset is around 4pm, so pack in as many outdoor activities as you can during the day if you plan on going then! There won’t be nearly as many people visiting during the winter and prices are lower. Be prepared for plenty of rain and cold. Winter months have at least seven days of rain and there’s even snow sometimes.

In contrast, summers in Copenhagen are beautiful, with highs in July and August around 22°C (72°F) and the sun doesn’t set until 9pm. July and August are the most popular months to visit so expect higher prices and larger crowds. But the city is at its liveliest and there are lots of summer events and festivals happening. The summer months still have rain about eight days every month and it cools off in the evening, so you’ll definitely want to pack layers.

Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit if you want to beat the crowds and save money since most accommodation is a little cheaper (and less busy). Spring sees cooler temperatures, settling around 16°C (61°F) in May. This is the driest time of year, but you’ll still want to bring rain gear. In autumn, Copenhagen is cool and cloudy with average temperatures between 9°-14°C (49°-57°F).This is also when the city gets the most rain, so bring a jacket and umbrella.

Copenhagen Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Copenhagen travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

Where to Stay in Copenhagen: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hostels in Copenhagen

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Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

12 Terrific Things to do in Copenhagen in Two Days

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 8, 2024

We had two and a half days to explore Copenhagen , and the one thing we learned was that we wanted more! There’s a lot of things to do in Copenhagen , and we made sure to pack as much as we could in the short amount of time we had in Denmark’s capital city. Our  tour of Scandinavia  with Go Ahead Tours gave us the opportunity to stop in all the great capital cities of the region. Copenhagen was definitely our favourite.

Table of Contents

12 Things to do in Copenhagen

We barely scratched the surface of all there is to see and do, but it wasn’t for lack of trying. From early morning ’til late at night, we stayed out so that we could make the most of Copenhagen. Want to know what to do in Copenhagen? Read on!

• Cool Tip: A more affordable place to stay near Copenhagen is Malmo Sweden, located just 20 minutes away. Check out our two day Malmo Itinerary here.

1. Visit Nyhavn

Nyhavn is probably the most scenic cityscape in all of the Scandinavian cities we visited. This waterfront canal is a must see when visiting Copenhagen. 17th-century townhouses line the canal filled with historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so special is the fact that they are painted in bright colours.

Hans Christian Anderson lived in Nyhavn where he wrote The Princess and the Pea and other famous fairytales. Today, the houses have been restored and renovated to their original beauty, housing restaurants, and cafes. There’s nothing better than people watching while enjoying a pint at one of the outdoor bars. Or grab an ice cream cone and go for a walk along the water towards the waterfront.

2. Papiroen

You can even cross the new pedestrian bridge to grab some cheap eats and street food at one of the many food trucks at Papiroen (Paper Island) right across the channel.

Watch All The Things to do in Copenhagen

Looking for cheap eats in Copenhagen? Read Virtual Wayfarer’s Where to Eat for Less Than 100DKK

3. Tivoli Gardens

Our number two choice for what you should do in Copenhagen is to go to Tivoli Gardens . We honestly nearly skipped this attraction and I am so glad that we didn’t. Tivoli is the most magical garden we’ve ever visited. The United States has Disneyland but Scandinavia has Tivoli.

Tivoli Gardens was opened in 1843 and has kept its old world charm while still adding new and modern amusement park rides. They have some of the most heart-pounding thrill rides we’ve ever seen! Make sure to go at night to see the gardens lit up with lanterns and light shows.

• Get FREE ADMISSION to Tivoli Gardens and over
• 72 other Attractions with the Copenhagen Pass!

4. Take a Canal Tour

The best way to see the city is by boat. Our boat guide told us that King Christian IV was a fan of Holland and wanted to model the city after Amsterdam. He created channels to have the look and feel of Amsterdam, but it also had a practical reason – to protect the Royal Danish Navy fleet. Today it is a beautiful way to get around to explore all the different islands and areas.

Starting with a canal tour is an excellent way to get your bearings and see the highlights of the city before setting off to explore all the things to do in Copenhagen by foot. Hot tip: Get the  Copenhagen Card  that gives you access to more than 75 attractions and unlimited public transit.

5. Christiansborg Palace

We’ve never been overly impressed by palaces. Often times we find touring them quite boring. But Christiansborg Palace was anything but boring. There are so many exhibits to see and it is absolutely beautiful.

Everything is preserved to perfection and you can easily imagine royalty roaming these halls.

Enjoying all the things to do in Copenhagen? Visit The Best of Bergen, Norway

6. Queens Tapestries – What to do in Copenhagen 

One of our favourite rooms in the palace was filled with tapestries. Little did we know that it is considered an exhibit in its own right. In 1990 the Danish business community gifted Queen Margrethe II, eleven tapestries for her 50 birthday. The tapestry series depicts 1000 years of Danish history.

7. The Tower

It’s the tallest tower in Copenhagen and gives a bird’s eye view of the city. Unlike other towers in many palaces, this one has an elevator.

They limit the number of people up the tower at one time, so you can be sure to get an optimal view of Copenhagen. There’s a restaurant half way up where you switch elevators as well.

8. Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace is worth a visit if for nothing else but to see the changing of the royal guard. It is still used as residences and guest quarters by the popular royal family.

Standing in the centre of the square gives you the chance to see the four identical palaces surrounding the equestrian statue of Amalienborg’s founder, King Frederick V.

9. The Round Tower

Even though we already saw Scandinavia from above at Christiansborg, you cannot miss going to the top of the Round Tower. Walking up the 268-meter long ramp that takes you to the top of the tower. It is one of the cool things to do in Copenhagen. It sounds like a tougher walk than it is.

Don’t worry, the tower is only 209 meters high, the walk is so long because the ramp circles around the outer core of the building.

Before reaching the top, you can stop at the old library which today houses an art, culture, history and science museum. Once you reach the top, you can walk around the top of the observatory that was once used as an observatory.

10. Shopping Street

Strøget is the world’s longest pedestrian shopping street and when you visit Copenhagen, you must go shopping here. This street is also considered the oldest pedestrian street in the world.

It’s filled with the usual suspects like Disney, Victoria’s Secret, and Louis Vuitton, but there are also other unique names like the Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store, formerly The Royal Porcelain Factory, the Illums Bolighus, and Danish designer Mads Nørgaard’s boutique. Really, we just liked walking down for people watching.

11. Go for a Bike Ride

You haven’t seen cycling in a city until you’ve been to Copenhagen. There is 390 km of dedicated cycling lanes and visitors can rent bikes to get around the city. But be prepared. Cyclists are everywhere and they are aggressive. You’d better know what you’re doing as you join the throngs of commuters riding their bikes to and from the metro.

Our guide told us that most people have a bicycle that they ride from home to the train and then another that they ride from the train station to work. It’s amazing to see just how many people ride bikes in Copenhagen.

12. Gefion Fountain

A popular stop for bus tours. Our bus tour stopped there, but truthfully we aren’t quite sure why. We were busy trying to snap photographs around the mobs of people.

While Go Ahead Tours does give us whispers where we can hear our guide explain what we are seeing, for some reason, I didn’t hear a thing. I ran to the fountain to get some photos and that was that. I had to look this one up on Wikipedia (by the way I donated my $5 to Wikipedia while doing so to give some props to their good work). There’s a lot to explain so I’m just going to link to the Wikepedia page here. 

13. The Little Mermaid

Our friend Alex Berger of Virtual Wayfarer is going to hate me for including this but I have to. Alex lives in Copenhagen and if you want to learn more about Copenhagen, Denmark and other travel adventures check out his blog. He is frustrated with the mass of people visiting The Little Mermaid and we agree, it is very underwhelming.

However, it is the most visited attraction in all of Copenhagen and we always say, you can’t go to a place without seeing it’s most famous display. Hans Christian Andersen was the pride of Denmark and this is his tribute. It’s a small statue of a mermaid depicting his story “The Little Mermaid”.

This story isn’t your Walt Disney version, The Little Mermaid has a tragic ending. But our ending in Copenhagen wasn’t tragic. We loved our time in the city and will definitely go back. There are so many things to do in Copenhagen and so many museums to explore.

14. Kronborg Castle

There’s also Kronborg Castle where many of our fellow passengers visited on a day trip and told us it was fantastic. We didn’t go as we wanted to really explore more of downtown Copenhagen, but a visit to Kronborg castle is one of the top things to do in Copenhagen

15. the Carlsberg Brewery.

We do love visiting a Brewery and Carlsberg Brewery is Copenhagen’s premier brewery. We were told on one of our tours that soldiers used to be paid in beer. That’s how important the beer history is to Copenhagen. Note: Carlsberg Visitor Centre is temporarily closed due to a major renovation and modernisation

So what’s your favourite thing to visit in Copenhagen? We’d love to hear so we can plan our next trip back to Denmark!

Our trip to Copenhagen was made possible by  Go Ahead Tours . As usual, all our opinions are our own. With more than 150 guided tours across all 7 continents, Go Ahead Tours has dedicated travel sites for both U.S. and Canadian travellers.

• Tivoli Gardens At Night
• Why A Guided Tour is Right for Scandinavia
• Norway in a Nutshell – Scenic Fjords
• 11 Easy Steps to Visit Stockholm on a Budget
• 25 Delightful Pictures of Sweden
• Why Can’t the World be More Like Scandinavia?

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Where to Stay in Copenhagen: 6 Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

Danish Food – 15 Traditional Danish Dishes You Can Try in Denmark or At Home

How to Visit Copenhagen Like a True Dane

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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19 thoughts on “12 Terrific Things to do in Copenhagen in Two Days”

Thanks all for sharing your wonderful experiences about the great Scandinavian city. your posts are helpful for who wants to visit this beautiful city.

I’m currently based in Skopje and we have cheap WizzAir flights to Copenhagen. I’ve been wanting to book a weekend adventure to the city for a while now, but I was too lazy to plan the trip appropriately. This blog post is very useful for me so thanks a lot for sharing!

BEAUTIFULLY DESCRIBED… THIS STORY IS VERY INTERESTING TO READ… GOOD WORK DEV

this is amazing great experience and great Photography

Another great post from you guys, and gorgeous photos too, thanks for sharing! It really is a beautiful place.

We love Copenhagen. Been there many times. You made a lot of the best stops, but Copenhagen offers so much more. Enjoy

Really nice and inspiring article! It makes me wanna get up and book a ticket to Copenhagen right now! Just pumped into your blog, looks amazing and full of inspiration, keep up the good work guys!

This site has a lot of information on it about different travel destinations. I really like reading about other locations in the world as i can not get on an airplane so i go on different vacations in my mind as i read these articles; Thank you

When i was in Copenhagen, i was so amazed by Nyhavan amazing view. It was really breathaking. There are several places i still haven’t visited yet in Copenhagen that you mentioned above. How could i missed that, god! I think i have to go back to complete your list as you suggested haha.

In Copenhagen you should definitely try to have dinner (or lunch) at Noma! Here is what to expect in one of the world’s best restaurants: http://www.thepickytraveller.com/noma/

Copenhagen is amazing, I was surprised by the palace, so beautiful. Great photography as well :))

After doing long and far travels (from Europe) I have to settle down a bit more now but I don’t want to stop traveling. I decided to see more of Europe and this post comes very in handy for that! I will definitely go back to this blog when I visit Copenhagen. Thank for that!

I have heard about Copenhagen a lot that it is really famous for some of the classical destinations. Your list seems impeccable and I am soon planning to visit this coolest place during my next vacation.

I have been in Copenhagen also and I admit that there are so many stunning views you can really enjoy most especially when the night came up. I’m excited about going back again.

It was wonderful getting the chance to share my adopted city with you both! Your shots of Nyhavn and from around the city give me chills. Absolutely gorgeous and with your unique twist on what is otherwise a heavily photographed location. As far as the Little Mermaid….well…she persists, but all sins are forgiven for including Gefion Fountain. Come back soon!

I’m impressed. You actually managed to experience most of the must see places in Copenhagen, even with the time limitations of only having 2 days to do so. I can highly recommend “Den Blaa Planet” (The Blue Planet) which is the biggest aquarium in north Europe.

Thanks Bo. I have to admit. We didn’t sleep! Haha. We loved it there, and will definitely go back. Thanks for the recommendations. I can’t wait to go for a little longer next time and experience more of the outer areas and that aquarium looks amazing.

You know, I’ve been to Copenhagen twice and there are things on this list I didn’t know about lol. Guess i’ll have to go back!

I bet you have done a lot that we didn’t get to see. We have to go back as well. It’s such a great city.

Let’s explore Copenhagen

Copenhagen travel guide

When I first visited Copenhagen, I was blown away by the beauty of the city, the friendliness of the locals, and the exceptional dining scene. 

I love that the impeccable style and cosiness you’d expect from a Scandinavian city is woven into every aspect of Copenhagen – from its beaches and harbour baths to the cafés and restaurants. 

About the author

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Copenhagen is an effortlessly stylish city where modern scandi feel meets cosy nostalgia. It’s a city driven by design and cool aesthetics – from its buildings to its people. With gardens, canals, beaches and even a ski slope, the Danish capital is a breath of fresh air and a pleasure to explore.

As you’d expect from the capital of such a forward-thinking country, Copenhagen is a place of dynamic culture, innovation and sustainability. These qualities underpin every aspect of the city, from its shopping and cuisine to its attractions and architecture.

From iconic Nyhavn where colourful houses line the shimmering canal to pockets of eccentricity and bohemian soul in places like Christiana, Copenhagen is a wonderfully multifaceted city. The transport is efficient, the streets are safe, and the locals are friendly, making the Danish capital an easy city to explore for every type of traveller.

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How to get to Copenhagen

I’m pleased to say that Copenhagen is an easy city to reach, especially if you’re travelling from within Europe.

By plane:  Copenhagen Airport is located just minutes from the city centre and offers direct flights from major airports around the world.

If travelling from the UK, a number of major airlines offer direct flights from London to Copenhagen, and the flight time is just under three hours.

There are a variety of transport options available from the airport, including trains, buses, and taxis.

By train:  Copenhagen can be reached by train from other European cities, with regular service from destinations such as Berlin, Brussels and Amsterdam.

By boat:  If you’re travelling from within Scandinavia, Copenhagen is served by a number of ferry routes from Sweden and Denmark.

By car:  The Danish capital is accessible by car, with excellent highways connecting the city to the rest of Europe.

Top tip:  If you want to take the stress out of getting from the airport to the city centre, I’d recommend  booking your Copenhagen airport transfer here  for an English-speaking, professional driver.

HOTEL GUIDE

20 best luxury hotels in Copenhagen

From boutique inner city boltholes to grand palatial hotels, discover my pick of the best luxury hotels in Copenhagen for a trip to the Danish capital.

15 Michelin restaurants in Copenhagen

The Danish capital is the ultimate foodie destination for discerning diners. Here are is my handpicked selection of the top Michelin star restaurants in Copenhagen.

How to get around Copenhagen

Despite being a relatively large city, I always find Copenhagen to be very straightforward to navigate, especially when you have CityMapper or Google Maps to hand. Its public transport system is wonderfully efficient and many of the more central areas are explorable on foot.

Top tip:  I’d recommend purchasing a  City Pass  for the length of time you’re going to be in Copenhagen. It’s a really cost effective way of getting unlimited travel while you’re exploring the city.

Plus, you get access to over 80 attractions in the city and won’t have to worry about buying lots of tickets.  Purchase a City Pass  in advance for ease when you arrive.

By foot:  As with many European cities, one of the best ways to experience it is on foot. Copenhagen is a very pedestrian-friendly city and walking allows you to explore the nooks and crannies of the city centre.

Plus, you can work up an appetite for all that Danish cuisine in the process! However, it’s worth noting that Copenhagen is a large city, so you will need to get public transport to explore the different areas.

By train:  The Copenhagen train and metro system is extremely efficient and very easy to navigate. It’s clean, fast and generally not overcrowded at all. I’d recommend getting the CityMapper app to help you get from A to B.

By bus:  Copenhagen’s bus system is extensive and efficient, making it easy to get from one place to another. The buses are clean and comfortable, and they offer a great way to see the city.

Copenhagen is also a very safe city, and the buses are no exception. They are well-lit and well-marked, and they offer a safe and convenient way to get around. Again, use the CityMapper app or Google Maps to help you plan your route.

By bike:  Copenhagen is a very bike-friendly city, with a network of well-maintained bike lanes and plenty of places to hire a bike. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, both for locals and visitors.

Copenhagen is relatively flat, so it’s perfect for cycling, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Bike hire is readily available, and many hotels offer guests the use of bicycles during their stay.

By e-scooter:  Electric scooters are available for hire all over the city, and you can use an app to find one near you. To hire a scooter, simply scan the QR code on the handlebars with your phone. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to unlock the scooter.

With an e-scooter, you can zip around the city without getting stuck in traffic. Copenhagen is a great city for scootering, with plenty of bike lanes and paths to explore.

By taxi:  Given the efficiency of Copenhagen’s public transport system, as well as the ease of getting around by bike, it’s not likely that you’ll need a taxi.

If you do, you can hail a taxi on the street and your best bet is to head to train stations to do so. Uber is not available in Denmark, but there are other apps like Viggo.

By car: While it’s possible to get around Copenhagen by car, driving can be a bit challenging. The narrow streets can be difficult to navigate, the roads are often congested, and parking can be hard to find. If you’re planning on renting a car, it’s worth checking out the Copenhagen Car Rental company.

They offer a wide selection of vehicles, and their rates are very reasonable. However, I really wouldn’t recommend getting around Copenhagen by car, as the public transport system is incredibly efficient.

Best time to visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen offers an inviting charm all year round, from the pretty views of springtime and warmer days of the summer to the sparkle and magic of the winter months. If you have an aversion to cold weather then I’d say you’ll probably be better off visiting in the summer months.

Copenhagen is a charming city to visit in any season, but it is especially lovely in the springtime. The days are getting longer and the flowers are starting to bloom, making it the perfect time to explore everything Copenhagen has to offer.

See all the parks and gardens in full bloom or take a leisurely stroll along the canals. Note that Copenhagen is still pretty chilly in the spring months, so be sure to wrap up warm. Although rain is less likely than it is in the winter months, it’s best to be prepared!

Copenhagen is a beautiful city to visit in the summer months. The streets are lined with trees and the city takes on a vibrant and colourful feel. Copenhagen is also within easy reach of a number of beaches, making it the perfect place to relax in the sun.

Not to mention all the harbour baths across the city, where you can sunbathe, socialise and swim. For those balmy summer evenings, there are numerous alfresco bars and restaurants, as well as outdoor concerts and movies.

Copenhagen in autumn is a magical sight. The leaves of the trees turn red, orange, and yellow, creating a truly picturesque scene. The city’s parks are especially lovely during this time of year, as they are adorned with colour.

Copenhagen comes alive with festivals and celebrations in the autumn months. There are plenty of things to see and do in Copenhagen in autumn, from exploring the museums and galleries to indulging in hearty stews and freshly-baked pastries.

Copenhagen in winter is a wonderland of snow-capped rooftops and sparkling canals. The city lights up with Christmas markets and unique Copenhagen traditions, such as riding on the Tivoli Gardens roller coaster in the snow.

There is something truly magical about visiting in winter. Festivities start to ramp up and the air is filled with the scent of gingerbread and chocolate. Locals and visitors go ice skating on the picturesque canals or sip hot cocoa in front of a roaring fire.

Browse and book the best activities and attractions in Copenhagen:

Frequently asked questions, how long to spend in copenhagen.

If your main priority is checking out the sights of the city, then I’d say three days is a good amount of time to spend in Copenhagen. A long weekend is the perfect way to experience a lot of what the city has to offer.

But Copenhagen is more than just a pretty city – it’s also a great place to relax and people watch. So if you want to really experience Copenhagen life, consider spending a bit longer in the city. That way, you can explore all the different neighbourhoods and get a feel for what it’s like to live there.

Is Copenhagen good for solo travellers?

I think Copenhagen is the perfect destination for solo travellers. It is an incredibly safe city, plus the locals are exceptionally friendly and helpful. I was shocked to see that the majority of people leave their bikes unlocked, which is testament to the low crime rate in the city.

The transport system is clean, safe and easy to navigate, plus there are plenty of things to see and do for solo travellers. Copenhagen is undoubtedly one of the best cities in Europe – if not the world – to explore on your own.

Is Copenhagen expensive?

There is no denying that Copenhagen is not an affordable city. As one of the most expensive cities in Europe, it does put a strain on the purse strings.

That’s not to say that Copenhagen can’t be explored on a budget, especially if you plan ahead. But to really experience all that this beautiful city has to offer, it’s worth accepting that you may have to spend a fair amount of money. Is it worth it? In my opinion, absolutely yes!

How many Michelin-star restaurants in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is home to an impressive 15 Michelin star restaurants. Two establishments hold the coveted three Michelin stars: Geranium and noma, the latter of which also holds a Michelin Green Star.

While 12 Copenhagen restaurants hold the Bib Gourmand accolade. Read my guide to the best Michelin star restaurants in Copenhagen .

Are there Christmas markets in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is a truly magical place at Christmas time, as it lights up with festivities and vibrant Christmas markets.

There are three key Christmas markets to be aware of: Christmas in Tivoli Gardens, Christmas at Bakken, and Christmas market in the Zoo. Discover more of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

Can you go skiing in Copenhagen?

It may surprise you to learn that yes, you can go skiing in Copenhagen! Not on real snow though. Copenhill is an artificial ski slope and recreational hill built on top of an industrial power plant.

I think it’s a super fun way to spend an afternoon in the city and one of the best things to do in Copenhagen .

DESTINATION GUIDE

16 best swimming spots in Copenhagen

From designated harbour baths and gorgeous sandy stretches, here is my pick of the best beaches and swimming spots in Copenhagen.

20 best brunch places in Copenhagen

From local Danish bakeries to the coolest spots in town, here is my handpicked selection of the best places for brunch and breakfast in Copenhagen.

Copenhagen highlights

Copenhagen museums.

Copenhagen is home to a number of world-renowned museums, each of which offers a unique window into the city’s culture and history. The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, for example, houses an impressive collection of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art. While the Nationalmuseet chronicles the development of Denmark from the Stone Age to the present day.

For those interested in Copenhagen’s rich artistic heritage, I’d say the Statens Museum for Kunst is a must-see, with its wide-ranging collection of Danish and international art. Just outside the city centre lies the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, set amidst stunning gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Øresund strait.

Whatever your interests, Copenhagen’s museums are sure to provide a fascinating glimpse into the soul of this historic city.

Danish cuisine

One of my favourite things about Copenhagen is that it’s a foodie paradise, with a wide variety of cuisines on offer from all over the world. The city is especially renowned for its classic Danish cuisine, which can be found in many of the city’s cafes and restaurants.

The most famous dish is probably Smørrebrød, a type of open sandwich that is traditionally served on dark rye bread and topped with a variety of meats, cheeses and vegetables. Another popular dish is Kartofler, a potato dish often served with gravy. For those looking for something a bit sweeter, I’m pleased to say that there are delectable pastries and desserts available around every corner.

As you’d expect, Copenhagen also has its fair share of Michelin-starred restaurants . One of the most notable of these is Noma, which is often hailed as one of the best restaurants in the world (although it is closing soon, in 2024!). There’s also the wonderfully unique and totally immersive The Alchemist.

For something more relaxed, a visit to Reffen street food market is an absolute must. It’s a haven of mouth-watering fare from all over the world. I’d recommend sitting back and relaxing in a deck chair as you tuck into some delicious food while watching the sunset over the harbour.

Swimming spots

There aren’t many cities where you can don your swimsuit and dive into the city canals. I wouldn’t even think about dipping a toe in the River Thames in London, my home city! In Copenhagen, the water quality at all the designated harbour baths is closely monitored by the city authorities.

There are plenty of harbour baths dotted around the city, as well as natural sandy bays and salt water pools. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can hang out on one of the wooden piers or decked areas. It’s a central part of the social scene in Copenhagen, so going for a swim is a great way to blend in with the locals.

Just be sure to stick to the designated swimming areas and don’t swim if a red flag is flying. A dip in the water is the perfect way to cool off in the summer months, or feel invigorated in the winter months – if you’re brave enough!

Discover my pick of the  best beaches and swimming spots in Copenhagen .

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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The Perfect 2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

Last Updated on November 28, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning out the perfect Copenhagen itinerary is truly a joy. The capital of Denmark is a popular city-break destination for those looking to spend a couple of days exploring this lovely and vibrant Scandinavian city.

While there are a seemingly infinite amount of things to do here that visitors could easily fill more than a week with activities and day trips, spending 2 days in Copenhagen is an excellent way to get a great feel for the city and see all of the main sites.

No matter how long you spend in Copenhagen, using this guide will help ensure you see the highlights and get a good feel for this cool and hip Danish city.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Copenhagen?

Many potential visitors wonder how many days to spend in Copenhagen in order to do the city justice, see all of the top sites and not feel too rushed.

In general, 2 days is enough to get a good feel for the city and to see the highlights. Central Copenhagen is quite compact and you can cover a lot of ground if you have two full days to spend.

With two days in the Danish capital, it really only gives you adequate to explore the top sites and attractions of the city. If you want to get a good taste for Copenhagen or prep yourself for a future visit, then you are sure to get quite a bit out of two days in the city (especially if you follow this itinerary!).

However, if you want to dig deeper and experience more of the city, then you can always find something to see and do if you plan to spend 3 or 4 days in Copenhagen.

With 3 days in Copenhagen, you can give yourself the time to dig deeper into the city, explore some neighbourhoods like Nørrebro or Vesterbro that lie a bit further from the well-trodden tourist trail or head to some museums or sights that you didn’t quite make it to in the first two days.

If you have the luxury of spending 4 days in the city, then you would even have time to head out on a day trip! The Swedish city of Malmö , for instance, lies within quite easy reach of Denmark’s capital and makes for an excellent place to head out and explore.

There are also some beautiful natural areas to visit if you’re keen to get out of the city or some smaller Danish towns that can give you a more holistic view of Denmark beyond the capital city.

All in all, 2 days are ideal if you’re trying to see the main sites and get a good feel for the city, three days are great if you want to dig deeper in the city itself and spending 4 days is fantastic for a few day trips to either nearby areas within Denmark or over the bridge in Sweden .

Getting To & Around Copenhagen

Copenhagen is easy to get to from virtually anywhere in Europe and internationally, as there is a high-traffic airport not far from the city centre that serves most major and budget airlines.

In order to save money getting from the Copenhagen airport to the city centre, we recommend taking the train to Copenhagen Central Station or hopping on the metro. The trains leave frequently and it is only a fifteen-ride before you are in the centre of the Danish capital.

The metro takes a little bit longer to reach the city centre (around 30 minutes) and you may need to switch lines depending on where around the city you’re staying. Have a look at a transit map to see if the train or metro makes more sense for where it is you’re staying.

If you want the hassle-free convenience of an airport transfer, then you can book a private transfer .

Once you are in the city, you will find that it is very walkable and most everything of interest can be reached on foot.

However, if you want to visit some places that are far from each other and aren’t keen on walking, you will be happy to know that there is an excellent public transport system throughout the city and it will make getting to the sites during your time in Copenhagen an absolute breeze.

If you do plan to use public transport in the city, as well as visit some of Copenhagen’s famous attractions then it can be worth investing in the Copenhagen Card . You get entrance included into up to 87 different attractions and have the option of buying the card for between 1 to 5 days.

Copenhagen is also incredibly bicycle-friendly and one of the best ways to see the city is on two wheels. There are multiple places where tourists can hire bicycles and cycling is the preferred method of transport for many locals in the city.

2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

Day 1 – city centre highlights & christiania.

The first day sees you exploring the main sites of this wonderful city. Getting started early will allow you to pack as much into your short time in the Danish capital as possible.

Free Walking Tour

Your first move on your two days in Copenhagen should be a free walking tour. There are a few walking tour companies to choose from in the city, but we recommend using Copenhagen Free Walking Tours . They are an independent company run by locals and they have a number of tours throughout the city to offer.

Their basic tour is a fantastic starting point to get your bearings, learn about Danish history and culture, and stop by some of the biggest sites in the city — it meets in front of Copenhagen City Hall. It will also help you prioritise what you might like to do with the remainder of your trip to Copenhagen as well as not making a major dent in your overall trip cost .

While the tour itself may be free, it is worth knowing that the guides work only for tips and it is good practice to tip your guide what you felt the tour was worth.

On the tour, you will see some of the top attractions in the centre of Copenhagen including the pedestrianised Strøget shopping street, the Round Tower (built by Christian IV), Christiansborg Palace and much much more.

If you’re interested in taking a paid tour of Copenhagen, we recommend going on this fantastic food tour (there’s more than just smørrebrød and traditional Danish pastry to sample!) this bike tour in order to have a more curated experience of Copenhagen.

Canal Cruise

If your feet are tired and sore after the walking tour, one of the best ways to rest is to hop on a canal tour from Nyhavn. Cruises leave frequently and they will help you see the city from a different perspective while enjoying a nice sea breeze.

Cruises typically last about an hour and can either be booked in advance, often for a cheaper fee, or on the spot. In the peak summer season, wait times if you book on the spot might be quite long due to the popularity of such an activity. That is why we would recommend getting your tickets in advance – click here to book your canal cruise in Copenhagen .

The canal cruise also takes you right by the royal palace (home to the Danish royal family) and the iconic Little Mermaid Statue, which is a top tourist attraction in Copenhagen. It is arguably better to see this small statue from the water as opposed to along the waterfront as it allows you to get a better view of it without having to fight through crowds of tourists.

You can also end up seeing a great view of monuments like the Church of Our Saviour in Christianshavn, the imposing Kastellet fortress and even maybe see the Reffen street food market in the distance!

Freetown Christiania

After enjoying the classical sites of Copenhagen both on foot and by water, it is time to head to an area completely separate from the Nordic charms of the Danish capital altogether: Freetown Christiania.

A self-proclaimed “independent republic,” Christiania is a fascinating place to visit. Located within the Christianshavn area of Copenhagen, this autonomous neighbourhood was established in 1971 as a commune in a former military barracks and is an area completely separate from the jurisdiction of Copenhagen altogether.

Today, it has expanded to be something of its own town within a city, complete with a number of restaurants and independent shops, lush green spaces. It is also perhaps best known for its fairly open sale and usage of marijuana.

While you are likely to see marijuana being used and sold freely within this area, particularly along Pusher Street, keep in mind that it is illegal in Denmark so proceed with caution.

It is possible to take a walking tour of Christiania led by a resident of the commune, and it is something that we would highly recommend. They meet daily during the summer near the entrance to the Freetown and are given in both English and Danish.

Day 2 – Christiansborg Palace, Tivoli Gardens & More

Your second day should be spent experiencing some more of the great things to do in the Danish capital. See some of the city’s best viewpoints, window shop along one of the longest pedestrian-only streets in Europe, and enjoy some adrenaline-pumping roller coasters right in the city centre.

Christiansborg Palace

Begin the final day of your 2 days or weekend in Copenhagen at Christiansborg Palace. Once a royal residence, the palace today is used as the house of Parliament in Denmark. While the palace itself may not be all that interesting to visit, there is an opportunity to take the life up to the high tower and enjoy some spectacular of the city.

Entry to the viewing platform is completely free of charge, as well, so while it might not be the absolute highest point in Copenhagen, it is the cheapest way to get the best views of the city.

We recommend heading here in the morning, as it can get busy later in the day especially if you’re travelling in peak season. Visiting the tower in the morning means you won’t waste valuable time waiting in line.

Hans Christian Andersen Museum

If you’re interested in fairy tales, then you can’t miss a visit to the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. While this museum is definitely geared toward children and younger travellers, we both enjoyed our time there and heard some more obscure of his fairytales along with his more popular ones.

This is a great option if you’re travelling with children or if you’re young at heart. Keep in mind, however, that a number of his fairytales are quite dark and depressing!

Alternatively, if this doesn’t interest you but the Danish royals do (or just lovely city parks), consider heading to Kongens Have – also known as the King’s Garden in English. This is home to the small Rosenborg Castle which houses the crown jewels – something beautiful to see!

After visiting the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, take the time to stroll down Strøget, which is one of the longest pedestrian-only streets in Europe. The entire street is packed with a number of interesting shops, restaurants, and street performers.

One of the highlights on Strøget could easily be Lego’s flagship store which is an excellent place to browse for both the young and young at heart. It is amazing to see how many cool Lego structures are available these days in the place where they were invented.

Tivoli Gardens

If you’re after a bit of adrenaline and enjoy a good, classic theme park, then Tivoli Gardens is the perfect stop for you and a great way to round out your fantastic two-day Copenhagen itinerary.

Located in the centre of the city, Tivoli Gardens is one of the top attractions in the city and is the third-oldest amusement park in the world.

Though most famous for its classic wooden roller coaster, there are a number of other roller coasters and rides to enjoy for all ages. These include a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, carousels, giant swings, and much more.

It’s also an incredibly popular place to visit if you come to Copenhagen during winter as it’s all done up for Christmas.

The park also organises shows and live events making it a great place to visit for all kinds of entertainment. Though entry can be expensive, you can book a pass in advance that includes the entrance fee and will allow you to skip the line and get to having fun as quickly as possible!

Keep in mind, however, that you do need to pay a fee to go on any rides, as you do in most every theme park in the world. There is no doubt that visiting the iconic Tivoli Gardens is one of the best things to do in Copenhagen.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 2 days to spend, then you have a number of great options available to you when it comes to properly planning out your itinerary. Spending more time in the Danish capital is a great way to get to know the city on a deeper level and can even give you the opportunity to explore some sights and areas surrounding the city, as well.

If you have 3 days, use it to get a bit outside of the city centre. There are lots of interesting areas where you could explore, however, these are just some suggestions.

If you’re interested in Danish cuisine and gastronomy, then make sure to head to Torvehallerne Market, which is a fresh food market hall that is packed with countless stalls selling all kinds of seasonal and unique Danish produce that is sure to show why Nordic cuisine is so trendy these days.

You could also use your third day to explore the trendy Nørrebro or Vesterbro neighbourhoods, which have a lot to offer visitors beyond the typical tourist sites.

If you haven’t had your fill of delicious food at the market, there are lots of great restaurants at the refurbished former meatpacking district in Vesterbro, which serves as a hangout for hip Copenhagen residents.

The Carlsberg Brewery is also located in this neighbourhood and you can visit this spot and learn about Denmark’s most famous beer.

If you have 4 days, this is ideal for going on a day trip and leaving the city of Copenhagen altogether! There are countless options available that are within easy reach of the city and can suit anyone’s fancy.

For instance, if you’re a Shakespeare fan or are just a sucker for a good European castle, then you should definitely head to Kronborg Castle, which may be better known as Elsinore Castle from Hamlet . You could easily couple a visit to Kronborg Castle with the nearby town of Helsingør for the perfect day trip!

Alternatively, this organised guided tour includes a visit to Kronborg Castle as well as Frederiksborg Castle & the old capital of Roskilde.

Another great option is to head to Sweden for the day! The city of Malmö is located only 35 minutes by train from Copenhagen and makes for the perfect place to explore from the Danish capital.

If you’re not looking to visit another large city, consider heading just a bit further to the small Swedish city of Lund, which is located about an hour by train from Copenhagen. If you prefer, you can take an organised guided tour to both Malmö & Lund in one day which includes transfers.

All in all, there are lots of things to see and do that will keep you occupied if you happen to have more than 2 days or a weekend in Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Ascot Hotel – This beautiful hotel located in a historic, 19th-century building is an excellent option if you’re looking for a high-end option in Copenhagen. Centrally located within easy walking distance of all of the Danish capital’s top sites, they have countless plush rooms on offer and numerous amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

The Square   – You can’t go wrong with this trendy hotel located right on the main square and moments away from the famous Tivoli Gardens. They have a number of cool, clean, and comfortable rooms available and a friendly staff that will help you with great recommendations throughout the city. 

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a budget, then you can’t go wrong with this lively and trendy hostel. As one of the best-rated hostels in the city, they have a number of both dorm and private rooms available, excellent common spaces, 24-hour reception, and an affordable (for Denmark) bar on site!

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Copenhagen hotels!

All in all, spending 2 days in the Danish capital is the ideal length of time in order to get a good feel for Copenhagen. It has a very good mix of a classic European city with the trendiness of the younger generation, and it truly is a great place to spend a weekend.

Are you planning to visit Copenhagen? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Is Copenhagen Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Copenhagen

Is Denmark Expensive? A Denmark Trip Cost Guide

The Essential Guide to Visiting Copenhagen in Winter

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Planning a trip to Copenhagen for a coupe of days next summer and this article was very informative and useful. Thanks!

Happy you found this helpful!

Very interesting. I’ve been to Copenhagen a couple of times. Nice to see an organised way of visit.. there’s also bike tours which I enjoyed.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Kevin!

This was great to read. It has me enthused about Copenhagen even though the trip is 10 months away!

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Amsterdam and Copenhagen are experimenting with hiding their cultural landmarks from tourists

If you recently visited Barcelona, Mallorca or  Venice , you’re a bad tourist who should have stayed home. At least that’s what the anti-tourism protests this summer in certain parts of Europe would have you believe.

Already this year, 142 countries are projected to exceed their pre-pandemic tourism performance,  according to the World Travel & Tourism Council . (That’s out of a total of 185 countries that the organization tracks.) In the next decade,  tourism is predicted to grow into a $16 trillion industry  that will generate 12.2% of global jobs. But the crowds and rising costs that come with it have locals in many cities feeling weary. 

“It’s not that tourism used to be a force for good and now has become a force for evil,” explains Ondrej Mitas, a senior lecturer at  Breda University of Applied Sciences  in the Netherlands. Mitas, who specializes in overtourism, says news coverage often describes the phenomenon as a single, unmanageable issue. If you tease it apart into smaller component parts, he argues, it’s easier to find solutions.  

In his mind, overtourism is actually four separate problems. There’s the classic overcrowding of popular sites. Visitors disrespecting cultural norms—say, swinging selfie sticks or baring their shoulders in an Orthodox church—is another. Then you have the partiers who get indecent or destroy public property. Last is the most insidious prong of overtourism: when locals do not sufficiently benefit from tourism in their communities, due to unequal distribution of profits. That’s what most often leads to resident-level resistance,  as seen in Spain this summer . “That’s a political problem,” says Mitas. “It’s much more difficult to solve.”

There’s reason for Mitas—and the rest of us travelers—to be optimistic.

Solutions for each of these   issues are being tested in different destinations around the world, from Copenhagen to Thailand to Hawaii. Here are three such trailblazing initiatives, some new, some years in the making. Though they’re still relatively small, each has the potential to scale around the world—and impact an ever-growing share of travelers. 

Redefining a Destination’s “Must-Sees”  

In a 2021 experiment run by Mitas and his team at Breda University,   155 visitors to the Dutch province of Overijssel were given one of two digital planning tools to inspire their trips. One group was given an app with the traditional sights marked out, and another was set up with an AI concierge called  Travel With Zoey , which recommended the least visited tourist attractions as must-sees, verified by a behind-the-scenes employee. 

Travelers from both groups took the recommendations to heart, going to the places they were shown or told about, rather than forging their own paths. In surveys afterward, they showed equal satisfaction with their vacations. “People had an equally good time whether they went to the hot spots or not, and that is pretty important,” says Mitas.

The reality is that most destinations have lesser-visited points of interest that are ready and worthy of receiving more tourists. But as long as most travelers use the same sources to find inspiration—say,  Alphabet Inc.’s  Google Maps or TripAdvisor—they will be steered toward the same spots. 

Of course, nothing prevents travelers from Googling their trips. But the study may convince tourist boards and travel agents that there’s good reason to stray from mainstream recommendations. “Whatever source reaches people with the least friction and makes the experience sound the most fun wins,” Mitas says.      

Mitas and the Zoey team are now working with Amsterdam’s and Copenhagen’s tourism boards to re-create the experiment in overcrowded city centers. “We’re expecting that the outcomes will be relatively the same as in Overijssel,” says Rajneesh Badal, Zoey’s chief executive officer. If so, he says, “the next step for us will be to make this part of the toolkit for policymakers and destination management organizations.” 

Spreading Tourism Revenue

For the past seven years, nonprofit organization Tourism Cares has been building a “ meaningful tourism map ,” filled with vetted providers of sustainable experiences around the world—think a weaving workshop with a women’s group in rural Jordan, birding with local conservationists in Colombia’s Otún Quimbaya Sanctuary or a woman-led history tour of Ponce, Puerto Rico.

So far, the map includes 321 impact partners in 22 countries   around the world, though it’s primarily meant as a business-to-business tool for tour operators and travel agents who can create entire trips around the experiences and deliver a larger scale of bookings. To build its map, the organization is partnering directly with tourism boards, like those from Colombia and Thailand, which must each identify at least 10 responsible tourism enterprises that are ready to receive an influx of visitors. 

The idea started in Jordan, which wanted to see tourism spread beyond Petra, its famed Unesco World Heritage Site; since then, companies such as  Insight Vacations ,  Intrepid Travel  and  G Adventures  have bolstered their itineraries with   ceramics, cooking and weaving workshops—all driving business to rural co-ops in small communities such as Bani Hamida, 90 minutes south of Amman. 

Among the project’s challenges is the fact that tourism boards aren’t always savvy about identifying local impact partners. But Tourism Cares CEO Greg Takehara says he’s seeing momentum, with a record number of destinations including Panama, Scotland, Ireland, Hawaii and San Luis Obispo adding some 200 impact partners in 2024.

Creating Behavioral Incentives

What does it take to get tourists to make sustainable choices? Copenhagen’s tourism board thinks fun freebies may do the trick. In July it started rewarding visitors for taking simple, climate-friendly actions through  an innovative, monthlong pilot program  in partnership with 20 local sites. Choosing to bike or take public transportation to a particular point of interest, for example, would get you a free museum tour, kayak rental or locally sourced veggie lunch. Anyone who brings plastic waste to the National Gallery of Denmark can join a complimentary workshop on upcycling it into an art piece. The pilot ended on August 11, and Visit Denmark expects to publish results later in the month.  

In Hawaii, a similar campaign called Malama Hawaii has been encouraging visitors to engage with volunteer activities across the island since 2020. In the first quarter of 2024, the Hawaii Tourism Authority says nearly  20% of all visitors  statewide participated in these activities,  up from 16% in the first quarter of 2023 .

The activities include everything from shore cleanups to propagating native plants and feeding animals on a farm sanctuary; since April they’ve been centralized on an  online dashboard  for easier access. Like Copenhagen, Hawaii is rewarding visitors for participation, offering discounts or free nights at participating hotels for taking part  in select activities . Joining a beach cleanup with the Hawaii Land Trust, for example, can get you a free sixth night’s stay at the Grand Wailea on Maui, a Waldorf Astoria resort.

The trend continues to catch on. Take the latest example, in  Vancouver Island . Pick up trash along the destination’s pearlescent beaches or Douglas fir-filled forests and bring it back to a designated collection point, and you’ll earn rewards that range from hotel discounts to a free pint of beer. It’s a small step in the right direction for an industry that is often slow to change. 

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How to spend a perfect weekend in Copenhagen

Dec 11, 2019 • 5 min read

Copenhagen is an ideal destination for a weekend break. It's a city both historic and hip, packed with fantastic things to see, do, and eat. Though it's Denmark 's capital, it is surprisingly compact and easily navigated, meaning visitors can experience a lot in a short time. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy a perfect weekend in Copenhagen.

Begin your visit to Copenhagen with a stroll to some of its most beloved sights. Wander charming Nyhavn and take in the magical atmosphere of colourful houses and tall ships lining the canal. Enjoy a harbourside walk and admire the contrast of the historic warehouses and modern additions like the massive Opera House . The promenade will lead you to the Royal Palace of Amalienborg , the Kastellet fortress, the impressive Gefion Fountain , and the iconic Little Mermaid . 

Admire the city from another perspective on a boat tour with  Hey Captain . The one-hour tour in one of their cosy 12-person boats will take you along Copenhagen Harbour and through the canals of the city. With comfortable seating around a table stocked with complimentary refreshments, it's a social experience as well as a touristic one. 

For dinner, get a taste of the world-renowned New Nordic cuisine at the stylish yet cosy Høst . Go for the set menu accompanied by the wine or gourmet juice pairing. The menu here changes with the seasons, which means you enjoy the freshest local flavours, and the Scandi chic interior design adds to the experience. 

Continue your evening at Ruby , a fantastic cocktail bar set on the shores of a canal in the oldest part of Copenhagen. Choose from a range of creative cocktails and soak up the speakeasy atmosphere, sinking into the leather sofas as you enjoy your tasty tipple.

Head to Copenhagen's foodie favourite, the market halls of Torvehallerne to enjoy some breakfast and discover the local culinary choices. Tuck into a bowl of porridge with fresh apples, roasted almonds and homemade caramel sauce at Grød , savour some deliciously flaky pastries from Laura's Bakery, or get your coffee fix at the renowned Coffee Collective . Browse the local products and pick up some foodie souvenirs, like organic chocolates from Summerbird or sea buckthorn marmalade from Bornholmer Butikken .

Stroll along the charming pedestrian streets to the historic Round Tower , where you can choose to climb the ramp that corkscrews 7½ times and take in views of the city. Take in picturesque Amagertorv and pay a visit to some of the surrounding Danish brands, including china maker Royal Copenhagen , silversmith Georg Jensen , design shop HAY House , and department store  Illums Bolighus ; its fabulous homeware section is an ideal place to pick up mementos of your trip that don't scream 'tacky souvenir'.

Grab a quick and tasty lunch at DØP , where you can try an organic pølse , a Danish hot dog. DØP offers a range of sausages, including goat, chicken-rosehip, and a vegetarian offering. Set off to explore the island of Slotsholmen, where Copenhagen was founded in 1167. Visit Christiansborg  – site of the Danish parliament and the queen's working palace – where you can tour the Royal Reception Rooms  including the Great Hall, which features colourful modern tapestries detailing 1100 years of Danish history. Slotsholmen is also home to the Royal Stables and riding ring, where the queen's horses can often been seen grazing or training, and the tranquil Royal Library gardens.

Take a break and indulge your sweet tooth with the best cheesecake in Copenhagen at Bertels Salon , which offers a range of flavours that change seasonally. Still have time to spare? Stroll past the historic Stock Exchange and its distinctive spiralling dragon spire, then cross the harbour to the island of Christianshavn which was created in the 1600s. This historic area features a charming canal lined with small boats, creating a nautical atmosphere.

Discover the lively streets of the  Vesterbro neighbourhood as you stroll to your dinner destination, the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen). This series of former slaughterhouses has been transformed into a hot spot of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and galleries. A stand-out in the district is Kødbyens Fiskebar , a trendy yet relaxed Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant known for its incredible seafood and innovative cocktails. Dinner here can range from fish and chips to a sleek multi-course tasting menu. Be sure to leave room for one of their creative desserts. 

After dinner, head over to the iconic Tivoli , the second-oldest amusement park in the world. Take in the twinkling lights and scenic lake and soar through the skies on the Star Flyer, or enjoy some after-dinner drinks at upmarket  Nimb  restaurant. In the warmer months, Tivoli hosts nightly live music, and on Saturdays you can enjoy swing music under the stars followed by fireworks at 11.45pm.

Make your way to the multicultural neighbourhood of Nørrebro and enjoy one of the city's best brunches at Wulff & Konstali . Choose five or seven items from the ever-changing array of tasty choices, such as mushroom-truffle panini with goat's cheese, or poppy-seed waffle with lemon cream.

Take a wander through leafy Assistens Cemetery  (the burial place of famous Danes Hans Christian Andersen and philosopher Søren Kirkegaard, among others) to Jægersborggade, a once-seedy street that is now home to some of Copenhagen's best independent shops, vintage boutiques, and artists studios. 

Experience a modern interpretation of smørrebrød, the traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, at  Selma . The seasonally updated menu features dishes like fried plaice with salted lemon and lovage; and confit chicken with rhubarb. Enjoy a local Mikkeller beer on tap, or try a potent akvavit , flavoured in-house.

Finally, soak up some history with a visit to Rosenborg Castle , built in 1606 as a country residence for King Christian IV. Now a museum, the castle features a fascinating collection of furnishings, paintings and artefacts including a narwhal-tusk coronation throne. Visit the treasury for a look at some of Denmark's most precious treasures, including the stunning crown jewels. Take a stroll through the idyllic gardens surrounding the castle, including the Renaissance-style rose garden which has lovely views of Rosenborg.

As your perfect weekend in Copenhagen comes to a close, take a final wander through the colourful streets of the old town and soak up the historic atmosphere. By now, you'll be making plans to come back.

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The Morning

A catastrophic civil war in sudan.

How an unexpected conflict is crushing Africa’s third-largest country.

By Declan Walsh

I’m The Times’s chief Africa correspondent, based in Nairobi, Kenya.

After more than a year of civil war, the toll in Sudan is heartbreaking: thousands killed, millions scattered and cities besieged or destroyed across a vast nation three times as large as France. Much of the capital lies in rubble. This month, international officials declared that part of Sudan was in a famine. At least 100 people die of hunger every day.

And there are signs it could soon get much worse.

Recently, I spent three weeks in Sudan, traveling across a part of the world that few foreign reporters have reached. The scale and intensity of destruction were startling: A conflict that started as a power struggle between rival generals has metastasized into a far bigger and messier conflagration, threatening to spread chaos across an already fragile region.

Despite all that, the conflict has received scant attention from world leaders or money for humanitarian aid. But its soaring human cost is making it ever harder to ignore. U.N. experts warn that Sudan is again spiraling into genocidal violence, as it did in the early 2000s. Samantha Power, the head of USAID, says it is “the single largest humanitarian crisis on the planet.”

One faint glimmer of hope lies in tentative peace talks, mediated by the United States, that started in Switzerland yesterday . Today’s newsletter explains the stakes: how an unexpected civil war is crushing Africa’s third-largest country — and what could stop the suffering.

Hope on the ropes

Only five years ago, Sudan was the source of euphoric hopes, when crowds of young people gathered to oust President Omar Hassan al-Bashir, the country’s dictator of three decades. For once, it seemed that a popular revolution in an Arab country might succeed.

Artists flourished. Politics opened up. Western governments offered to cancel billions of dollars in debt. Al-Bashir went to jail, convicted on corruption charges.

Those dreams were dashed after just two years, in 2021, when Sudan’s military and a powerful paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, unwilling to cede power to civilians, united to overthrow the government in a coup.

But the alliance was short-lived. The coup leaders — the army chief, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the R.S.F. commander, Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan — fell out over how to merge their forces. Then they went to war.

A surprise war

When the first shots rang out on the streets of the capital, Khartoum, in April 2023, many residents figured it wouldn’t last long. Sudan had experienced dozens of coups, more than any country in Africa, since it won independence in 1956. Most were short-lived and bloodless.

But the military found that the R.S.F., a force it had once helped to create, was now a formidable adversary with fighters more battle-hardened than its own forces. By December, the R.S.F. had seized most of Khartoum and the country’s breadbasket region, Jazeera State, as well as much of Darfur, the western region that suffered a genocide two decades earlier.

General Hamdan, the R.S.F. leader, claims to be fighting for Sudan’s marginalized and has sought to distance his force from its roots in the Janjaweed militias that terrorized Darfur in the 2000s. But his lofty speeches are at odds with the massacres, rape and ethnic violence that human rights groups say his fighters commit.

The Sudanese military is also guilty of war crimes, U.S. officials say, including indiscriminate bombing and the use of starvation as a weapon of war.

Rising stakes

Because Sudan is such a huge and populous country, the number of people who may starve is staggering.

According to the latest estimates , 26 million people — over half the population — are suffering crisis levels of hunger. On Aug. 1, two groups of global hunger experts declared famine at a camp in Darfur, the world’s first since 2020. Other parts of the country may soon follow, they say.

The conflict also brings political risk. It could spread to Sudan’s weak neighbors, like Chad or South Sudan. European leaders fear an influx of refugees. American intelligence worries that a lawless Sudan could become a terrorist haven.

Other foreign powers are already involved in the conflict, choosing sides and providing weapons that ravage civilian neighborhoods. The United Arab Emirates has armed the R.S.F. Iran supplied drones to the military. Russia, over the course of the war, has backed both sides.

The American-led peace talks that started in Geneva yesterday seem like a long shot — Sudan’s military didn’t even send a team of negotiators. But officials alarmed by the spiraling hunger crisis say there is little choice but to try. Millions of lives could be on the line.

The war has transformed Khartoum, once a city of high rises and five-star hotels , into a battleground.

Videos and satellite images show just how much destruction the war has brought.

For The Times Magazine, Nicholas Casey embedded with a Sudanese militia that says it’s fighting to establish a Western-style democracy .

THE LATEST NEWS

2024 election.

During a speech in North Carolina, Donald Trump directed a series of insults at Kamala Harris, claiming she had “the laugh of a crazy person.”

Trump criticized the Affordable Care Act but said he would leave it in place “unless we can do something much better .” He also promised tariffs of up to 20 percent on U.S. trading partners.

Tim Walz, a hunter and a veteran, was a small-town gun guy. The Parkland school shooting helped turn him into a gun-control advocate .

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tried to meet with Harris to discuss endorsing her in exchange for a cabinet post.

Jesse Ventura, the former Minnesota governor and professional wrestler, endorsed Harris . Hulk Hogan, a onetime rival in the ring, has endorsed Trump.

Walz met his wife, Gwen, when they taught at the same Nebraska high school. Friends describe her as coolheaded and competent .

More on Politics

Nancy Pelosi helped push President Biden out of the 2024 race. It’s chilled their five-decade friendship .

Speaking to online content creators at the White House, Biden joked that he was “looking for a job.”

U.S. Economy

Last month, inflation in the U.S. dropped below 3 percent a year for the first time since 2021, putting the Federal Reserve on track to cut interest rates in September.

Many prices fell from June to July , including for cars, clothes and plane tickets. Car insurance and rent got more expensive.

Asked by a reporter whether the U.S. had “beat” inflation, Biden said yes: “ My policies are working .”

Israel-Hamas War

Senior U.S. officials said Israel had achieved all that it can militarily in Gaza and that continued bombings would only increase risks to civilians.

The Times spent weeks with freed Israeli hostages, photographing them as they try to rebuild their lives. See the images .

Columbia University’s president quit. She’s the third Ivy League president to resign after criticism over the handling of Gaza protests on campus.

War in Ukraine

Ukraine’s military advanced even deeper into Russian territory. Russia withdrew some troops from Ukraine to combat the incursion.

More than 130,000 Russians have fled or been evacuated. It’s a new phase of uncertainty for a country that had largely adapted to the war.

Germany issued an arrest warrant for a Ukrainian man it suspects of helping sabotage the Nord Stream pipeline in 2022.

Other Big Stories

Over the past decade, some counties in Northern California have seen half their land burn .

Hurricane Ernesto cut power for hundreds of thousands of people in Puerto Rico.

The World Health Organization declared a global emergency over the spread of mpox in Africa. The disease, formerly called monkeypox, has killed more than 500 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo this year.

A New Zealand charity accidentally gave away hundreds of chunks of meth . They had been disguised as candies.

Even as Trump distances himself from abortion bans, conservative Christians aim to restrict abortion from conception and limit access to I.V.F. with or without him.

Ukraine’s incursion into Russia is a serious risk, but also a real opportunity to expose Russia’s vulnerabilities , David French writes.

Saving Caribbean coral reefs may require freezing their eggs and sperm , Carly Kenkel argues.

Here are columns by Charles Blow on Trump’s sexism and Pamela Paul on the end of summer .

MORNING READS

Scandinavian style: At Copenhagen Fashion Week, outfits on and off the runway matched the host country’s reputation as one of the happiest places in the world.

Homesteaders: They’re living off the grid and posting about it online .

Old Timer: The survival of the world’s oldest known humpback whale is a mystery.

Youth: Growing up is hard. Global trends like climate change and job insecurity seem to be making it harder .

Lives Lived: Wally Amos used his background as a talent agent, his aunt’s recipe and a winning personality to build the Famous Amos cookie brand. He died at 88 .

M.L.B.: The New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge hit his 300th career home run in a win over the Chicago White Sox. He’s the fastest player to the milestone in the league’s history.

Gymnastics: The court presiding over Jordan Chiles’s bronze medal case blamed gymnastics’ global governing body for problems at the Olympic floor exercise final.

N.F.L.: The New England Patriots traded the veteran pass rusher Matthew Judon to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a third-round pick.

ARTS AND IDEAS

After an impressive run at the Paris Olympics, Chinese athletes are finding a darker side of that success: Extreme fans have mobbed them at airports and staked out their homes. Their experience is not uncommon in China, Vivian Wang writes, where intense fan culture often leads people to stalk their idols and sell their personal information. Read more about the phenomenon .

More on culture

The street artist Banksy has unveiled animal artworks around London for nine straight days, sending fans on a citywide scavenger hunt .

On late night, Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert both discussed JD Vance .

THE MORNING RECOMMENDS …

Shuck corn for this basic chowder .

Avoid these debunked health trends .

Sip a nonalcoholic wine that’s actually good.

Convert to compression socks .

Here is today’s Spelling Bee . Yesterday’s pangram was motivator .

And here are today’s Mini Crossword , Wordle , Sudoku , Connections and Strands .

Thanks for spending part of your morning with The Times. See you tomorrow.

P.S. “The Wirecutter Show,” a weekly podcast from Wirecutter, launches next week. Listen to the trailer .

Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox . Reach our team at [email protected] .

Declan Walsh is the chief Africa correspondent for The Times based in Nairobi, Kenya. He previously reported from Cairo, covering the Middle East, and Islamabad, Pakistan. More about Declan Walsh