Travel guide: What to see and do in Copenhagen

The best way to see and visit Copenhagen: Take a free tour

What to see in Copenhagen in 1 - 3 days?

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark. It is the largest and most populous city in the country with 1,167,569 inhabitants. Located on the east coast of the island of Zealand (Sjælland) and partly on the island of Amager. It is one of the essential places that should be on your list. Its history dates back to around the year 800, when it emerged around a small fishing village.

Every corner of this dream city will make you fall in love. On this walk you will discover everything it has to offer you.

How to plan my visit to Copenhagen?

At Yoorney we have local tour guides who offer you the best selection of guided tours, free tours and excursions in Copenhagen and other cities around the world.

A different and fun way to discover a city.

Hey Yoorner! Do you want to live adventures? Visit the city in a different way with our Tours of Copenhagen!

Why visit Copenhagen?

If you have in mind going to the Danish capital, do you want to know the essential places to visit in Copenhagen? It is the city where Hans Christian Andersen lived and wrote, it seems like a fairy tale: medieval stone bridges cross canals lined with rows of multicolored houses and narrowing cobbled streets between Lutheran churches and Renaissance palaces.

You will love it and you will never want to leave! So that you don't miss a single detail of its emblematic corners, these are the essential places to see and visit in Copenhagen in 3 days (or a weekend getaway). Take note!

The complicated thing about traveling is knowing everything you want from the chosen destination. We take care of that and show you the place so you don't feel like a simple tourist. Yoorney tours teach you the local culture as if you were a local.

12 essential places to see and do in Copenhagen

1. Copenhagen City Hall

The Copenhagen City Hall is one of the tallest buildings in the city. It is located in the Radhuspladsen square. It was inaugurated in 1905 following the design of the Danish architect Martin Nyrop. It has a romantic-style façade. The most striking element is the clock tower, which offers excellent views of the heart of the Danish capital from more than 100 meters high. It is worth climbing the 300 steps that lead up to this viewpoint! From there we can see the Tivoli Gardens, the church of San Salvador or the Nyhavn channel.

The main hall is the most beautiful room in the Copenhagen City Hall. In addition, it is decorated with Danish flags and busts of relevant figures from the city's history, such as Andersen or Nyrop himself.

Yoorney Tips! There are polar bears on each side of the Town Hall, as a symbol that Greenland is part of Denmark.

2. Strøget pedestrian street

Strøget is the longest pedestrian street in Europe and the main artery of Copenhagen. It communicates Tivoli with the New Port. They range from large shopping centers to small craft and souvenir shops. It is a good place to eat, there are countless restaurants and cafeterias for all tastes and budgets. At night the signs that stand out the most are red, since there are also many bars and karaoke bars that come to life. It stands out for its atmosphere, the people who walk, the musicians and alley artists, the terraces...

3. The Port of Nyhavn

Nyhavn is also known as New Port. Without a doubt, it is the most picturesque and colorful neighborhood in Copenhagen. It was built in the 17th century by King Christian V. At that time it was the entrance for merchants and sailors who came by boat from the Baltic Sea. Since then it has been one of the busiest spots in the city. It is the most portrayed place on postcards and the first image that comes to mind when we think of the Danish capital.

In addition, you will find many interesting attractions, particularly for first-time visitors to Copenhagen. It is the area of the Tivoli Gardens and its amusement parks, the statue of The Little Mermaid and Strøget. Also nearby you can visit the royal residence of Amalienbord Slot, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony.

4. Tivoli Gardens

For the vast majority of Danes, their favorite place is the Tivoli Gardens. This amusement park is considered a national treasure. It is one of the oldest in Europe. It opened its doors in 1843. King Christian VIII ordered its construction with the idea of giving the city a place of recreation in which to be distracted. The true founder was George Carstensen, a military man who was able to convince the king to buy the land where the Tivoli stands today. It has a charm that is difficult to explain, the combination between the old and the modern is part of its main attraction!

It has spaces to enjoy with the family and attractions that will take you on a walk through Norse mythology and Andersen's tales. It currently integrates more than 30 tourist attractions, full of fantasy and color, that will make you spend unforgettable moments. Featuring roller coasters and other high-level rides, what sets this theme park apart from most are the gorgeous gardens, complete with fountains, pergolas, and vintage car rides. Corners full of charm that will make you feel like you are in a period movie. In addition, inside there are theaters where shows and concerts are held and restaurants.

PRICES

Ticket from Monday to Friday (Adults): 19.50€

Ticket from Monday to Friday (Children from 3 to 7 years old): 8.70€

Weekend ticket (Adults): 20.80€

Weekend ticket (Children from 3 to 7 years old): 8.70€

Schedules

From April 4 to September 22, from Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Closed the rest of the year, except for Halloween and Christmas.

5. The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid is the most recognizable symbol of Denmark. It is a beautiful bronze statue of a mermaid, located on a stone in the harbor bay, next to Kastellet and very close to the Amalienborg Palace. It is made of bronze and weighs approximately 180 kg.

It is inspired by the story of Hans Christian Andersen, renowned writer. Famous for various children's stories from El Patio Feo, La Reina de las Nieves to La Sirenita. The sculpture was made by the Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen during the last century and one of the best-known legends in the Baltic Sea area takes place around it.

Since 2012, he has had a male alter ego in the Danish city of Elsinore. His name is Han and he is made of various metals that create a mirror effect.

6. Round Tower

In the center of the city stands the Round Tower. It is one of the most curious constructions in Copenhagen. It was built in the 17th century by order of King Christian IV, with the aim of creating the first astronomical observatory in Copenhagen. Today the Rundetaarn observatory is still the oldest in Europe. It rises 35 meters above the ground to offer us impressive views and one of the best panoramic views of Copenhagen. And not only during the day, since the tower continues to function as an astronomical observatory for the public thanks to a large telescope that also allows us to contemplate the night sky.

7. Christiania

The free city of Christiania is a self-governing space. Founded by the Provo movement, Christiania was born as a space to recover military land and where citizens believed they had the right to freely exploit it. It is made up of inhabitants who throughout history have made it politically independent from Denmark, despite being physically within the Christianshavn neighborhood.

This neighborhood is located right in the heart of the Danish capital. It is the most alternative and bohemian area of the city. It stands out for being a beautiful and quiet canal neighborhood. It is full of boats.

8. Amalienborg Palace

The Amalienborg Palace is the official winter residence of the Danish royal family. The palace consists of an old octagonal fortress of four buildings around the central square: Amalienborg Square. It was like a kind of citadel made for four different families belonging to the nobility to reside. The four places are identical on the outside, but different on the inside. Its Rococo-style construction, dating from the 18th century and including a statue of Federico V in the center of the square, is today used as the winter residence of the royal family.

One of the main attractions in Copenhagen is to see the changing of the Royal Guard. The parade occurs every day at mid-morning. We recommend you see it! The royal soldiers start the tour from Rosenborg Castle at 11:30 a.m. and parade through the Latin Quarter of Copenhagen, Ostergade, Kongens Nytorv, and end at Amalienborg Palace for the changing of the guard.

Yoorney Tips! The four buildings are flanked by soldiers of the royal guard, who make certain movements every quarter of an hour.

PRICES

Adults: 12.80€.

Accredited students: 8.70€.

Under 18 years: free admission.

Schedules

From Tuesday to Sunday: from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

9. The Copenhagen Opera

Another stop is the National Opera in Copenhagen. It is one of the most modern and one of the most architecturally impressive buildings in the city. It was inaugurated in 2005. It has 14 floors, 5 of which are underground.

This beautiful building is the work of the Danish Henning Larsen, and stands out for the curious structure of the building. The building, with a cost of more than 500 million dollars, is the result of a donation from a Foundation to the Danish people.

10. Refshaleøen

In recent years, the former industrial district and one of the largest shipyards in the world has become one of the most fashionable areas of Copenhagen and a center of creativity, alternative urban development, festivals and food of a wide variety. Easily accessible by bike, bus or even the port bus, the island is an integral part of the city but with its own identity.

It is also here that you will find the popular Reffen street food market, which is open throughout the summer season.

11. Danish Design Museum

Denmark and design have always been linked. The Design Museum of Denmark is located in the former hospital of King Frederik, next to Amalienborg Palace. It was founded in 1890 with the goal of inspiring both designers and consumers to create and pursue higher quality products.

It can be enjoyed with temporary and permanent collections inside. There are old pieces and other more modern ones made by the most popular designers in Denmark, such as Kaare Klint, Arne Jacobsen, among other well-known artists whose works are exhibited in different exhibitions.

12. Nationalmuseet

This island, trapped between the Moldavia River and one of its tributaries, the Certovka River, whose name means “devil's river”, can be found just below the Charles Bridge.

The National Museum offers a journey through several millennia of Danish history. Housed in a former royal palace, it houses an important collection including a Trundholm sun chariot, the well-preserved Huldremose wife and Viking artifacts. It is also home to an eclectic mix of foreign acquisitions, including Chinese costumes, classical coins and Australian Aboriginal artifacts.

From Yoorney we are sure that if you visit all these places, you will fall in love with Copenhagen! It will be a crush at first sight. Don't worry though, if you feel like you want to see more, that's normal! We recommend you go through:

National Aquarium of Denmark
Reffen
Copenhagen Zoo
Legoland
Torvehallerne Market

Where to eat in Copenhagen?

The gastronomy of Copenhagen stands out for having spectacular and high-quality dishes. We give you some recommendations to taste the typical foods of the area.

4 places to eat in Copenhagen

Smagsloeget: If you like sandwiches, this is your place! Here you can find all kinds of combinations of large sandwiches.
Cafe Komplet: Looking for a typical place to eat Danish food? In addition to the famous smørrebrød, you will be able to taste different dishes!
Boathouse: With good views towards the port of Nyhavn. The restaurant offers a small variety of menus, brunches and some à la carte dishes.
Sporvejen: Focused on all kinds of burgers! This place is in front of a square, so the setting on the terrace gives it added value. They also have a variety of omelettes accompanied with rye bread and butter, a Smørrebrød style.

4 typical dishes of Copenhagen

The gastronomy and typical cuisine of Copenhagen is incredible! They are often based on a dish where the main element is fish or pork.

Smørrebrød. A very popular dish! It consists of a slice of rye bread, with fish or meat, vegetables and sauce on top.
Flæskesteg. It is a recommendation that you do not have to miss! Also, this dish is related to Christmas in Denmark. It is oven-roasted pork with spices, bay leaves, and cloves, usually served with boiled or caramelized potatoes.
Frikadeller. Danish meatballs, known as frikadeller, are very traditional. They have their own unique flavor. Maybe it's because they are usually fried in butter. They can be eaten with boiled potatoes or on top of a smørrebrød like a true local.
Kanelsnegl. One of the most traditional and typical desserts! It's the Danish cinnamon bun, also known as the cinnamon snail. The main ingredients are flour, cinnamon, sugar and butter, which provide a robust and sweet flavor.

Copenhagen with children

Are you going to travel to Copenhagen with the little ones? All the cultural offer that this city provides is perfect for a family trip. Virtually all tourist visits have an area dedicated to children so they will not get bored at any time.

A getaway in Copenhagen with children can be a lot of fun! Take a look at the best plans for adults and children in Copenhagen. You sign up?

The Tivoli

There are many family plans to do in Copenhagen. The visit to this amusement park depends on the time of year in which you make the trip. If you travel in summer, your little ones will be able to get on all the attractions, since they only remain open during this season. In summer there are also light shows and fireworks that you will love. On Halloween and in winter they only open for holiday dates with the decoration belonging to each season and the attractions do not work. During Christmas, one of the most spectacular Christmas markets in Denmark is located in the Tivoli Gardens.

Copenhagen Zoo

The Copenhagen Zoo is located in a large area located in Frederiksberg. Among the great variety of species that the Zoo contains, the polar bears stand out, species difficult to find in captivity in other places. Due to the great extension, the animals live according to their natural habitat, recreating each space respecting the environment of each species.

Pet-friendly Copenhagen

Are you passionate about animals and looking for a different plan? A getaway with your pet is always a good idea. But surely you think, where can they enjoy to their heart's content?

Tourism and pet-friendly getaways have grown in Copenhagen in recent years. More and more hotels, restaurants and attractions have hung the Pet Friendly sign on their doors. A getaway with your dog is one of the most unforgettable adventures you can have.

Copenhagen is a very #petfriendly city and that is how we have experienced it. We have been able to do a lot of activities with our dogs!

Dog parks in Copenhagen

In Copenhagen there are dog-friendly areas where animals can roam, such as the large parks in the city center: Kongens Have and Ørstedsparken: In addition to the many green parks in the suburbs or the deer and forest parks north of Copenhagen, like Jægersborg Dyrehave.

Restaurants in Copenhagen to go with dogs

When you go with your pet on a trip, you have to take into account where to go to eat. Sign up for these sites, they won't let you down! To go for tapas or eat seafood dishes we recommend the Cafe Atelier September, an ideal place to sit with your pet. If you fancy a seaside meal, don't miss Toldboden, a harborside restaurant and bar serving seasonal local seafood and steaks.

When the weather is good, you can be on any terrace without any problem with your pet.

Pet Friendly Hotels in Copenhagen

This is one of the most important points when choosing a travel destination, there are more and more hotels that allow pets.

Accessible Copenhagen

Adapted tourism is not a pending issue in Copenhagen.

We were able to experience it first hand and here are some of our favorite adapted and accessible sites:

Monuments and museums: Marble Church, Rosenborg Castle, Malmo Castle and Maritime and Technological Museum.

Nocturnal Copenhagen

Enjoy the night life of Copenhagen. The city hides a multitude of corners with a special charm to have a good time in good company and where you can walk, have a drink and toast.

These are some of our favorite places to party in Copenhagen!

Beer lovers in Copenhagen

If you like to go for beers in Copenhagen, you cannot leave the city without trying the Mikkeller brewery. It's beer lovers heaven! You will find more than 40 options on tap, but by the concept of the place: organic and total simplicity.

Cocktails in Copenhagen

For those who prefer cocktails, having a drink after work or enjoying the Copenhagen night out more calmly, K-Bar can be a great destination.

Live music in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a number of venues where you can enjoy the best live music. If you like live music, you have to go to La Fontaine.

Copenhagen nightclubs

Copenhagen's nightlife stands out as one of the main leisure activities. To get out of the daily routine, we recommend The Bird & The Churchkey, Bar25 and Zoo Bar.

The best nightlife in Copenhagen. Perfect for having the first or last drink of the night.

How to get to Copenhagen?

Whenever you have a destination in mind, one of the biggest concerns is getting to the city. The main ways to travel to Copenhagen are by car, by plane, by train and by boat.

How to get to Copenhagen by plane

Traveling to Copenhagen from Spain by plane is the fastest, most comfortable and cheapest way to get to the Danish capital. Low cost airlines that fly to Copenhagen from Madrid or Barcelona are Ryanair, Iberia Express and Vueling.

How to get to Copenhagen by train

To get to Copenhagen by train from Spain there are no direct routes. It is located in northern Europe, bordering Germany to the south and Sweden to the north. It is relatively easy to get to Copenhagen by train from some cities in these countries. The train journey to Copenhagen from Oslo takes 7 hours; from Hamburg, 6 hours; and from Malmö, just 40 minutes.

How to get to Copenhagen by boat

If you choose to do it by boat, Copenhagen is an essential stop for cruises that cross the Baltic Sea and the Norwegian fjords. Many of these large passenger ships set sail from Mediterranean ports such as Barcelona, Rome, Marseille or Athens.

How to get around Copenhagen