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If there’s one city that perfectly blends storybook charm, modern design, and cozy Scandinavian vibes, it’s Copenhagen. Denmark’s capital is effortlessly cool from colorful harbor houses and royal palaces to bicycles, bakeries, and all the hygge your heart can handle.

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or as part of a larger European adventure, Copenhagen is a city that feels both timeless and innovative. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Copenhagen to help you plan your visit like a local with a few insider tips straight from a travel advisor.

1. Stroll Along Nyhavn

You’ve seen the photos… the row of colorful 17th-century houses along the harbor is Copenhagen’s most iconic view. Take a walk along Nyhavn, stop for a coffee or glass of wine, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Travel Advisor Tip: For fewer crowds (and better photos!), visit early morning or at sunset. I can also help you book a canal cruise that departs right from Nyhavn for a beautiful view of the city from the water.

2. Visit Rosenborg Castle and the King’s Garden

Step into a fairytale at Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels and royal treasures. The surrounding King’s Garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic in warmer months.

Travel Advisor Tip: Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance, especially during summer. Families will love pairing this visit with the nearby Natural History Museum or Botanical Gardens.

3. Experience the Magic of Tivoli Gardens

One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens is pure magic, day or night. Think charming rides, concerts, twinkling lights, and delicious Danish treats. Walt Disney himself once drew inspiration here!

Travel Advisor Tip: Visit in the evening when Tivoli is beautifully lit, or during the holidays when it transforms into a winter wonderland.

4. Explore Amalienborg Palace

Catch the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the Danish royal family. You can also visit the palace museum to see royal history come to life.

Travel Advisor Tip: The best spot to view the ceremony is in the square around noon. Plan to arrive a little early for a front-row view.

5. See the Little Mermaid

It wouldn’t be a trip to Copenhagen without visiting the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairytale.

Travel Advisor Tip: While it’s smaller than most expect, it’s worth a visit, especially if you pair it with a scenic waterfront walk or bike ride along Langelinie.

6. Eat Your Way Through Reffen Street Food Market

Head to Reffen, Copenhagen’s creative street food market set right on the harbor. With global food stalls, local beer, and live music, it’s a local favorite for a casual meal with a view.

Travel Advisor Tip: Go hungry and try a few small bites from different stalls, everything from Danish smørrebrød to Thai street food.

7. Wander Through Christianshavn and Freetown Christiania

Cross the canals into Christianshavn, a picturesque district filled with colorful houseboats, cozy cafés, and historic churches. Don’t miss Church of Our Saviour for its spiral staircase and panoramic city views.

Nearby is Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen’s alternative neighborhood known for its art, murals, and free-spirited vibe.

Travel Advisor Tip: Visit during the day and explore respectfully. It’s one of Copenhagen’s most unique local experiences.

8. Rent a Bike and Explore Like a Local

Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with designated lanes everywhere you look. Rent a bike for the day and explore at your own pace. It’s the best way to feel like a true Dane.

Travel Advisor Tip: Don’t worry if you’re not used to biking in cities. Copenhagen’s cycling infrastructure is incredibly safe and easy to navigate.

9. Visit the Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

Built in the 1600s, this iconic spiral tower offers one of the best city views without a single staircase. You’ll walk up a circular ramp to the top!

Travel Advisor Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds, and enjoy a coffee or pastry from one of the nearby bakeries afterward (you’re in Denmark, after all!).

10. Take a Canal Cruise

See Copenhagen from a whole new perspective with a canal cruise through the city’s waterways. You’ll pass landmarks like the Opera House, Christiansborg Palace, and charming neighborhoods that aren’t as easy to reach on foot.

Travel Advisor Tip: Choose a covered boat if visiting in winter, or an open-air one in summer for the best photo opportunities.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Each neighborhood offers its own unique charm. Here are three great options depending on your travel style and budget:

Budget: Wakeup Copenhagen, Borgergade – A modern hotel offering minimalist design and central location, ideal for travelers seeking comfort without a hefty price tag.
Moderate: 1 Hotel Copenhagen – A nature-inspired retreat located in the historic heart of the city. This 5-star hotel offers a serene oasis with locally sourced materials, Scandinavian design, and modern amenities.
Luxury: Nimb Hotel – Set within Tivoli Gardens, this boutique hotel features elegant suites, fine dining, and exclusive access to the gardens.

Travel Advisor Tip: Copenhagen hotels book up quickly, especially during summer and the holidays. Reach out early so I can help secure the best rates and room types for your travel dates.

Copenhagen is one of those cities that’s hard not to fall in love with. Vibrant yet calm, historic yet cutting-edge, and filled with that unmistakable Danish sense of hygge. From fairytale castles to cozy cafés, every corner invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

Ready to plan your own Copenhagen adventure? Contact me today to start crafting your perfect Danish getaway, whether it’s a romantic weekend, a family trip, or a stop on a Scandinavian itinerary.

The Ultimate Guide to Copenhagen: 10 Must-Do Experiences in Denmark’s Capital