How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Copenhagen

How to Spend 3 Perfect Day Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, is a city of fairy-tale magic and contemporary style. With colorful harbor sights and historic castles, plus world-class dining and bike-friendly streets, Copenhagen has something for every traveler. Here’s how to get the most out of 3 fabulous days in this cosmopolitan city.

Day 1: Classic Copenhagen – History, Culture & Nyhavn Charm

1. Begin your day at Nyhavn

Start your journey in the charming Nyhavn harbor, flanked by brightly colored 17th-century houses and lively cafes. Take a few photo ops and have a Danish pastry and coffee at one of the local cafes.

2. Canal boat tour

Board a guided boat tour from Nyhavn and enjoy a leisurely orientation of the city’s major sights such as the Opera House, the Little Mermaid statue, and Christianshavn canals.

3. Visit Amalienborg Palace

Tour the home of the Danish royal family. Catch the changing of the guard at noon for a look at royal tradition.

4. Lunch at Torvehallerne Market

Stop by this gourmet food market close to Nørreport Station and sample a variety, from classic smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to street food from around the world.

5. Stroll through Rosenborg Castle & the King’s Garden

Stop by this Renaissance castle which contains the Danish crown jewels. The gardens are ideal for a quiet walk.

6. Finish your day with dinner in the Latin Quarter

This neighborhood close to the University of Copenhagen is packed with atmospheric cobblestone streets and intimate restaurants. Have a meal at Restaurant Höst for a fashionable Nordic meal.

Day 2: Art, Design & Local Living

1. Start the day with breakfast in Vesterbro and

Go to Mad & Kaffe, a trendy café in bohemian Vesterbro, for a tasty Danish breakfast plate.

2. See the Glyptoteket or the National Gallery of Denmark

Select one of these two world-class art museums based on your interest: ancient sculptures and impressionist paintings at Glyptoteket, or modern and classical paintings at the National Gallery.

3. Explore Freetown Christiania

Walk through this hip, self-contained neighborhood famous for its bohemian culture, street art, and creativity. It’s calm to explore on foot during the day.

4. Have lunch at Broens Gadekøkken

By the Inner Harbour Bridge, this street food market is a popular local spot for casual, delicious food with sea views.

5. Go to the Designmuseum Danmark

Find inspiration in Scandinavian design and craftsmanship—from furniture to fashion and ceramics.

6. Night at Tivoli Gardens

Cap off your second day at the globe’s second-oldest amusement park. Tivoli is all aglow with sparkling lights, gardens, attractions, and shows. Be sure to eat within the park or enjoy a sweet snack such as churros or Danish pancakes.

Day 3: Contemporary Architecture, Biking & Nature

1. Bike like a local and rent one

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without cycling through the city. Rent a bike and explore like a Dane.

2. Visit the Copenhagen Opera House and Royal Library (Black Diamond)

Take a morning ride by the waterfront to admire Copenhagen’s modern architecture marvels. Both locations offer great views and photo opportunities.

3. Brunch at The Union Kitchen

Refuel at this hip brunch restaurant for its meatballs, avocado toast, and chic decor.

4. Afternoon in the Botanical Garden or at the CopenHill

Nature enthusiasts will love the Botanical Garden as a serene retreat. For something out of the ordinary, visit CopenHill—the world’s only artificial ski slope and hiking trail constructed on top of a waste-to-energy plant!

5. Shopping and souvenirs at Strøget

Stroll along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, ideal for shopping for Scandinavian design pieces, clothing, and trinkets.

6. Last dinner at Noma or Restaurant Barr (if booked)

Cap off your visit with a bang at one of Copenhagen’s renowned dining establishments. If you cannot snag a table at Noma, Restaurant Barr provides a comparably elite New Nordic dining experience in a more laid-back environment.