Essential Travel Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark

There’s a reason that Denmark is ranked among the happiest countries in the World, and some of that joy surely transfers to tourists when they visit Copenhagen.

Copenhagen is a very welcoming city, with many iconic tourist attractions that are hard to resist. Add to that the great food you’ll find in Copenhagen, like the New Nordic Cuisine movement, and it’s a perfect place to travel.

If it hasn’t made it on your must-see list yet, our essential travel guide to Copenhagen will change your mind and have you planning a visit to Copenhagen in the near future. Our handy infographic guide will show you the best places to stay, things to do and where to eat and drink in the city.

There’s a lot of information in this fun city guide! Start planning your Copenhagen vacation right here!

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Table of Contents

What to Do in Copenhagen

With so many things to do in Copenhagen, you really have to be good about planning out your itinerary. You’ll want to see the main sights, which is fantastic for a bike or walking tour.

Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable locations, due to the row of colorful townhouses that line the canal. You’ll also want to walk along the waterfront to see the Little Mermaid statue.

Nyhavn - be sure to visit during your 2 days in Copenhagen — Nyhavn – be sure to visit during your 2 days in Copenhagen

There’s some really great food in Copenhagen, and the best way to find it all is on a food tour. You’ll want to book in for this Copenhagen Food & Drink Private Tour, where you’ll visit the most traditional food stands in Copenhagen.

One of the best ways to see all the major sights of the city is to go on a walking tour that will take you the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kronborg Castle and Frederiksborg Castle, the largest Renaissance-era castle in Scandinavia.

Tours to Book

If you want to book some fun activities before you go, feel free to use the links below to book tours through Viator or GetYourGuide. (Thanks for using our links! These are affiliate links from which we will receive a small commission.)

Don’t forget to get your Copenhagen Card, which will gain you free entry to 73 top Copenhagen attractions, plus free, unlimited use of the city’s public transportation networks.

What to Eat in Copenhagen

There is quite a trendy food scene in Copenhagen that spans from the natural organic food movement to the New Nordic cuisine made popular by noma. Just the plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants in the city should say enough about the calibre of chefs.

If you can afford it, check out one of the 16 Michelin restaurants, like Geranium or Relae or the Thai-fusion Kiin Kiin. For a cheaper meal, head to one of Copenhagen’s many street food areas like Reffen or The Bridge Street Kitchen.

Some top foods to look out for are

Smørrebrød – a slice of rye bread with various toppings, often eaten for lunch
Flæskesteg – the Danish version of roast pork, is considered to be one of Denmark’s principal national dishes.
Fiskefrikadeller – Danish Fish Cakes
Pickled herring
New Nordic Cuisine

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Here are three affordable luxury hotels in Copenhagen that we recommend. Public transportation in Copenhagen is very useful for getting around to all parts of the city, so you don’t need to stay in the city center to see everything.

In fact, things are a bit too spread out to walk everywhere, so a bus or bike rental will be necessary anyway. Book your hotels or read more reviews by clicking these links: (These are affiliate links, for which we earn a small commission.)

Hotel Kong Arthur: The hotel is lovely, very comfortable with a relaxed vibe and great location. Read reviews | Check prices
Copenhagen Admiral Hotel: The hotel is in a great location and has an excellent outdoor bar/restaurant right on the water. Read reviews | Check prices
Copenhagen Marriott Hotel: Located right on the waterfront, this hotel has incredible views. It’s located near Tivoli Gardens. Read Reviews | Check prices