While it’s obvious that there’s something French to the DNA of Værnedamsvej, the street seems to have trouble deciding where it belongs. With one side of the street belonging to Vesterbro and the other to Frederiksberg, Værnedamsvej is not only a street split between two neighborhoods – it’s also a street split between two municipalities with the residents on one side of the street paying less taxes than the ones living on the other side of the street.
Taxes and technicalities aside, the charming street has the ability to bring people together whether it’s for a glass of wine, shopping or good food. It’s the kind of street you could pass through in less than five minutes but why on earth would you?!
Stop by Shop DORA for a design souvenir. Photo: Daniel Rasmussen
A celebration of the good life
Today, Værnedamsvej is chic, urban and local – it’s posh yet down to earth, but it wasn’t always so. Truth is that until 1733, Værnedamsvej was not a street worth mentioning. Literally, because it didn’t even have a name! But along came Werner Dam, a beer tapper who opened a beer garden in this little nameless street connecting Gammel Kongevej and Vesterbrogade. Werner Dam managed to turn the beer garden into a quite popular hangout, and eventually the street was named after Werner Dam, who brought happiness as well as beer to the area.
Wine, dine and shop on Værnedamsvej
Looking for coffee, wine, flowers, interior design, clothes, cosmetics, cheese, jewelry or great food? You’re in luck! It’s all within minutes.
For years Falernum has been among the most popular wine bars in Copenhagen – and nothing seems to change that.
Granola is pure nostalgia and perhaps just as popular as Falernum, especially when coffee is served in the backyard.
Vintage, Danish design classics and fun gadgets – you’ll find it all at the lovely boutique Dora.
Le Trois Cochons is not a restaurant with a French take on Danish bacon as the name might suggest. It’s much more than that…
Enter the flower shack, Blomsterskuret in 3A and smell the flowers.
Go around the corner and visit Central Hotel & Caféin Tullinsgade, the smallest hotel in Copenhagen with only one room – and great coffee for anyone who missed the chance to stay here.
Hungry for French sausage and other delicacies to go? Drop by Le Gourmand!
And for some cheese – go to Helges Ost.
If you like Værnedamsvej, you might also like Jægersborggade.
Central Hotel & Café – the smallest hotel in Copenhagen. Photo: Martin Heiberg.
How to get to Værnedamsvej?
Værnedamsvej is tucked in between Vesterbrogade/Frederiksberg Allé and Gammel Kongevej, close to The Lakes and St. Thomas Plads. Nearest metro station is Frederiksberg Allé on the M3 City Circle line.
Where fancy Frederiksberg meets vibrant Vesterbro. Welcome to Værnedamsvej.
From infamous to world famous: Welcome to the ‘it street’ of Copenhagen
When you take a look at this picturesque street today, it’s hard to imagine that only a few years ago, Jægersborggade was a dodgy hub for drug dealers and other suspicious types roaming the streets. Then something happened. When former Noma alum Christian Puglisi opened the restaurant Relæ in 2010, a restaurant that later on received a Michelin star, a bunch of baristas, artists, designers and other entrepreneurs tagged along. Though Puglisi’s Relæ and his popular bistro Manfreds closed in 2020, Jægersborggade is blooming! Today the Nørrebro street accommodates more than 40 independent boutiqes, wineries, eateries, chocolatiers and much more so take a stroll and treat yourself to some local goodies.
Jægersborggade has many unique stores that are worth a visit
The coolest street in the ‘capital of cool’
Few years ago, Lonely Planet wrote: “Denmark’s capital of cool is unstoppable” as Copenhagen was ranked number 1 among the best cities for travelers in 2019. Later on The Guardian mentioned Jægersborggade in an article listing 10 cool shopping districts around the world. The once haunted street is now among the ‘it streets’ of Europe. Possibly because the cobbled street has managed to retain its local feel welcoming each and everyone.
10 places to visit in Jægersborggade
Coffee Collective – the place to go if you want your caffeine fix to be fair trade.
Interested in plants and interior design? Swing by Plant København in number 27 and see how three young women combine plants and design.
Go for a wine tasting at Terroiristen. And while you’re there, try the tiramisu.
Up for home made vegan ice cream? Check out BANANA in number 27.
Looking for a gift? Visit ceramic designer Inge Vincent in her workshop.
GRØD means porridge but it is way better than it sounds. Try it out!
Buy your next knit sweater from Craft Sisters and support women around the world.
Get your organic greens, kefir and kombucha at Camilla Plums blandede landhandel.
Check out the handmade jewelry by local designers at Ladyfingers.
Among the many galleries visit Galleri Udtryk, if you’re looking to get your hands on some super cool linoleum prints.
Where is Jægersborggade?
Jægersborggade is located in Nørrebro, right across from one of the main entrances to Assistens Cemetery on Jagtvej. At the other end, the street borders Stefansgade and Nørrebroparken. Nearest metro stations are Nørrebro Runddel and Nuuks Plads. Go straight to Google Maps here!
Jægersborggade is located in Stefansgade Quarter in outer Nørrebro.
The Lakes in Copenhagen connects the four neighborhoods Vesterbro, Frederiksberg, Nørrebro and Østerbro with Central Copenhagen. While it looks like there are five lakes, there are in fact only three; Sortedams Lake, Peblinge Lake and Sankt Jørgen Lake. The walking distance around The Lakes is only 6 km, which just shows how easy it is to go from one end of the city to the other.
The Lakes are a perfect recreational spot offering some of the best views of the city as well as they make up for a very popular meeting point among the locals.
A sunny day by The Lakes in Copenhagen
When the sun comes out you will see how the city is brought to life, especially at the area around Dronning Louise’s Bridge. You will see people strolling around while sipping on a cold beverage or a hot cup of coffee. Benches will be packed, children will be be feeding the ducks and runners will be zigzagging their way through the crowds.
During summer you can rent rowing boats or pedal boats at Søernes Bådudlejning (Copenhagen Lakes Boat Rentals), situated by Dronning Louise’s Bridge.
Walking path around The Lakes.
Dronning Louise’s Bridge
At The Lakes you will find the very popular Dronning Louise’s Bro (Queen Louise’s Bridge) which connects the city centre with Nørrebro. With more than 40.000 cyclists crossing the bridge every day, this is not only a bridge but also the busiest bicycle street in the world. However, it is not just a path for bikes or a bridge connecting two neighborhoods. It is also an important landmark and one of the most popular places to hang out in Nørrebro.
On sunny days the bridge will be packed with locals hanging out on benches, railings and sidewalks, talking, listening to music and enjoying the weather.
The popular Droning Louises Bridge in Nørrebro. Photo: Martin Heiberg
During summer people will hangout at Dronning louises bridge. Photo by Maria Sattrup
5 places to get your coffee
Go to Kaffesalonen by Dronning Louise’s Bridge and enjoy a snack and a drink right on the lake.
Looking for croissants to go with your coffee? Take a break at Den Franske Café at Sortedams Dossering 101.
Coming from Vesterbro? Grab a cup to go at Pauseriet before starting your walk.
For something stronger, stop by Søernes Ølbar and have a cold beer.
Or enter the cocktail cave at Bar Next Door by Dronning Louise’s Bridge.
Where are The Lakes Copenhagen
There are many streets leading to the Lakes in Copenhagen, Gl. Kongevej, Åboulevard, Nørrebrogade, Østerbrogade just to mention a few. Go straight to the map here!
Have you ever considered going on a city break with the purpose of seeing absolutely none of the sights? The slow travel philosophy may not as such be compatible with a city break, for while the standard Copenhagen getaway attempts to squeeze in as many sights and experiences as possible, slow travel is all about ditching the bucket list and blending in. It’s about sensing and connecting with the local environment rather than crossing things off the list. The true slow travelers may not even take a photo to post on Instagram and they probably won’t go see The Little Mermaid either. But they will make friends with the local barista, smell the grass and go see a local band playing.
Ride your bike into the sunset – it doesn’t get more Danish. Photo: Viggo Lundberg
The art of slow traveling in Copenhagen: Search for the sun
Copenhagen offers plenty of sights. No doubt! The standard itinerary will take you by The Little Mermaid, Amalienborg Castle, Marble Church, Christiansborg, Christianshavn, maybe even Christiania and on a guided boat tour through the canals. If well arranged, you can do it all in a single day…
… or you can do it differently and consider local life to be the main attraction. When searching for the Danes, you should first of all check your weather app and hope for some sun and a clear blue sky as most Danes crave sunrays after a long, dark winter. You’ll find them soaking up the sun by The Lakes, in Frederiksberg Gardens, Ørstedsparken, Assistens Cemetery, Reffen and anywhere by the water – and on a hot day you will probably find them splashing around in the water.
It may seem strange but rather than going to the beach, many Copenhageners prefer going to the harbor. Several areas along the water such as Islands Brygge, Sluseholmen and Nordhavn offer public harbor pools with lifeguards on duty, however you will quickly notice people swimming anywhere, but be aware that you may be fined if you swim outside the marked areas.
12 ideas for your slow travel in Copenhagen
Bring a bathing suit and a towel and head to La Banchina in Refshaleøen. Stay there for the afternoon, soak up the sun, swim and enjoy a glass of Aperol Spritz while the sun is setting.
Go hiking! Escape the urban areas for a day and hike Amarminoen from central Amager to Dragør.
On a sunny day, go to the beach. Amager Beach is close to the city, yet completely different.
Visit a cemetery. Sounds weird? Maybe so, but the Danes hang out there all the time. Try Assistens Cemetery, Bispebjerg Cemetery or Vestre Cemetery.
Go on a picnic in Kongens Have, Nørrebroparken, Botanical Garden, Fælledparken or any other park depending on your mood.
Hike CopenHill on Margretheholm between Amager and Refshaleøen. Get sweaty and enjoy the view from the top.
Rent a boat and experience the city at your own pace.
Even better – rent a kayak and paddle around the canals and enjoy a meal and a drink at Kayak Bar when you’re done.
Visit the last fishing village, Fiskerhavnen, in Sydhavnen and be inspired by the ‘slow living’ lifestyle.
Explore the brown bars – the bodegas – in Vesterbro, Nørrebro or Amager and have a talk with Copenhageners of all kinds over a cheap beer.
Go shopping in your local neighborhood: Istedgade in Vesterbro, Jægersborggade in Nørrebro or Gammel Kongevej in Frederiksberg.
Spoil your taste buds and spend your savings at Alchemist. A true journey for all senses.
True happiness can be found on a lawn in Vesterbro. Photo: Büro Jantzen
The homestay philosophy
It’s pretty obvious. If you want to blend in, stay with the locals – or at least live like the locals. In Copenhagen you will find that most Airbnbs are real homes rented out by real people. This means that you get to experience everything from amazing Danish design to tiny bathrooms. And who knows, you may even sense the concept of ‘hygge’, though this is first and foremost a state of mind rather than a setting.
Renting an Airbnb in Copenhagen allows you to get out of Central Copenhagen and out into neighborhoods such as Vesterbro, Nørrebro, Amager, Frederiksberg and Østerbro, which is crucial if you want to experience Copenhagen from an authentic perspective. The fridge may be half full, the apartment is probably packed with family photos and personal items and you may even be asked to water the plants… in a weird way this could become a lasting memory.
Check into an Airbnb in Nørrebro and experience the real Nørrebro.
Slow travel – literally!
Slow travel is a state of mind, a way of experiencing a destination and about slowing down, and the most important tool for the slow traveler in Copenhagen could very well be a bike. But make no mistake, biking around Copenhagen can be as stressful as it’s authentic, however it’s not to be missed. The bike will get you places you wouldn’t have gone otherwise and it will give you a chance to stop and smell the flowers, the kebab… or the weed in case you’re close to Christiania.
Do’s and don’ts when riding a bike in Copenhagen
Arm up when stopping.
Don’t ever stop in the middle of the road or on a bike path without signaling. It is guaranteed to piss off the Danes.
Right arm to the right when turning right.
Left turns don’t exist at a traffic light. You need to cross two streets to turn left.
Go with the flow. Slow bikers are annoying, fast ones are dangerous. Try to fit in.
Wear a helmet – even if the Danes don’t wear one.
A bike is your best tool when experiencing Copenhagen like a local. Photo: Martin Heiberg.
Slow travel your way through Copenhagen
Slow travel can be whatever you want it to be. In the end it’s up to you to decide what calms you, what enlightens you and what makes you want to share a piece of yourself. However, we suggest you take your time and stay in Copenhagen at least 4 days, though most people would stress that 2 days should be enough. Stay local and rent an apartment on Airbnb or try couchsurfing. Get yourself a bike, which allows you to experience everything in between point A and point B. Taste the city: Street food, beer, gastronomy and even salt water. And not least – take it easy, chill at a café for hours and lie down in a park and watch the dogs running around. Enjoy!
Relax and hang out at Enghave Plads – where the locals of Vesterbro meet up.
Enghave Plads in Vesterbro is the name of a metro station connecting Vesterbro with other parts of the city but there’s much more to the name than that – it is also a recreational space for locals in Vesterbro. With the establishment of the new metro line (M3) in 2019, the urban space has undergone a major transformation – from dark, dense and dodgy to light and open with plenty of hangouts and recreational areas.
10 years ago the locals came here to drink beer in the shade of an old tree. Today the locals come here to drink wine on a sunny day and they don’t feel the need to hide it.
Danes on the first day of spring.
Shopping, skating, sipping and sunbathing
As much as Enghave Plads functions as a meeting point and a hub for transportation, it is also a popular hangout. Enghave Plads is surrounded by cafés, bars, restaurants and quirky little stores selling everything from vintage, home décor and fashion to wine and bicycles. You can easily spend a few hours in the area, not to mention a few bucks.
While many things have changed around Enghave Plads the past decade, some things remain the same. Though the facilities are not amazing and the ramp isn’t huge, the area has always attracted skaters, primarily young kids practicing their skills.
Not least, there’s also room for the lazy ones. Opposite of Enghave Plads you find Enghave Park, which has recently undergone a major transformation as well. A place to relax, have a picnic or even play ball if there are not too many people around. For now the park seems a bit bare with only few trees and bushes, but eventually the trees will rise and the bushes will bloom.
How to get to Enghave Plads
The easy way to get here is to take the M3 line. If you’re coming from Central Copenhagen, pass by Central Station, walk all the way up Istedgade and you’ll hit the square after about 1,3 km. From Sydhavnen simply follow Enghavevej and you’ll find the square on your right hand side. Coming from Frederiksberg, follow Enghavevej and the square is on your left hand side.
Superkilen is an urban space, which really reflects Nørrebro’s colorful DNA. Also Superkilen is a tribute to the diversity that Nørrebro – more than any other neighborhood in Copenhagen – is known for.
The urban space is divided into three areas, which are color coded in black, red and green, each with its own identity and function. The perfect places to explore daily life or do any kind of recreational activity. Not least, Superkilen makes up for a great place to meet or observe the locals.
There’s always something going on at The Red Square. Photo: Giuseppe Liverino
Locals were asked to contribute to the design of Superkilen and nominate specific objects from their home country or countries they have lived in or traveled to. If you take a good look, you will be able to find 99 objects from 59 countries that represent the neighborhood’s diversity such as swings from Iraq, a boxing ring from Thailand and a fountain from Morocco.
There’s plenty to see and do here with several places to rest, play, have a barbecue or exercise, all while exploring the many objects and their stories. Why not go on a little treasure hunt? Maybe you will find all 99 exotic treasures around The Red Square, The Black Market and The Green Park.
To find all the 99 “hidden” treasures check out this map!
Red, black, green?
The Red Square is located at Nørrebrogade, Nørrebro’s most busy street. A great pitstop if you crave a cup of coffee or if the kids need a break. If it’s your lucky day, there might be a flee market or a pop up concert going on. You never know…
Black Market is located in between The Red Square and The Green Park. Go here, if you want to play chess or ride your skateboard or roller blades around the concrete hills of Nørrebro. Less talk, more play!
The Green Park is the most quiet of the three, located between Black Market and Tagensvej. Lie down on the grass, read a book or play basket ball with your friends – or join the locals.
How to get to Superkilen
If you’re coming from Indre By by bike, cross Dronning Louise’s Bridge and ride a few kilometers along Nørrebrogade until The Red Square shows up on the right hand side, approximately halfway between Nørrebro’s Runddel and Nørrebro Station.
If you’re on the M3 metro line, you can get off at Skjolds Plads and walk a few minutes to reach The Green Park. Or get off at Nørrebro Station and walk a few minutes down Nørrebrogade in order to reach The Red Square.
While most cemeteries are sacred and quiet, Assistens Cemetery in Nørrebro is quite different. This is the burial site of Hans Christian Andersen, Søren Kirkegaard, Niels Bohr and a bunch of other famous Danes, who have gone to rest here since the 18thcentury, and although it still functions as a cemetery, it is primarily used as a park for the many locals strolling through every day.
The cemetery was built to take the pressure off the cemeteries in the central part of Copenhagen and today it is the most famous of all cemeteries in Denmark. Assistens Cemetery is a place to go to rest – and not only if you’re dead. On a sunny day you will see people sunbathing, taking a break and hanging out. Though the neighborhood’s busiest street, Nørrebrogade, is just behind the wall, it feels like the city is lightyears away.
It may come as a shock to some foreigners that the Danes hang out in a cemetery among tombstones and buried people but it should not be confused with bad manners or lack of respect. Assistens Cemetery may be a resting place for the dead, but it is also a tribute to life, so join the locals and enjoy the unspoiled nature in a truly idyllic setting. You may even think of it as a little piece of heaven.
Welcome to Assistens Cemetery!
How to get there
Look for the yellow wall, which can be seen from Nørrebrogade, Jagtvej and Kapelvej, about halfway between The Lakes and Nørrebro Station. It shouldn’t be too hard! If you take the metro, get off at Nørrebro Runddel and you have arrived!
What to do in Assistens Cemetery?
Buy a cup of coffee at a nearby coffee shop and take a stroll.
Do a picnic on a sunny day.
Go treasure hunting and see if you can find Hans Christian Andersen, Kirkegaard and some of the other famous Danes buried here.
Have you ever heard of Sydhavnen? If you’re looking to stay in a Copenhagen neighborhood that’s authentic, quiet and budget friendly, you might want to consider a stay in Sydhavnen. And with that we mean the old part of Sydhavnen. Once a tired working class area mainly consisting of public housings and poverty, now an up and coming neighborhood with easy access to Vesterbro, Central Copenhagen and the canal towns of Sluseholmen, Teglholmen, Engholmene and Islands Brygge.
While the old part of Sydhavnen was built between 1930-1950, Sluseholmen and Teglholmen, which are technically also part of Sydhavnen, were built built from 2006 and onwards and creates a great contrast to the old part of Sydhavnen. Recently Engholmene popped up as a new addition to the canal towns.
You will love Sydhavnen if…
peace, quiet and fresh air is on your agenda
the budget is tight and you would like to stay local
you enjoy running or walking while you’re on holiday
you want to be close by the water
The old part of Sydhavn is as authentic as it gets in Copenhagen.
Where is Sydhavnen?
Sydhavnen is bordering Vesterbro, Carlsberg Byen and Valby with the western part of Amager across the water. South of the residential area in the old part of Sydhavnen, you will find Valby Park, which stretches south to Hvidovre.
Sydhavnen and the canal towns.
5 things to do in Sydhavnen
Most people who choose to stay in Sydhavnen will most likely use it as a base for daily experiences and activities around the city. However, there are things to do in and around Sydhavnen. Here are 5 things you need to try during your stay in Sydhavnen.
Run, relax and look at alpacas in Valbyparken
Valbyparken – or Valby Park – is one of Copenhagen’s biggest parks, which you will find in the backyard of the old Sydhavnen. The park offers great running paths as well as little theme gardens, such as the Japanese Garden, the Water Garden, Fruit Garden, the Oriental Garden, the Islamic Garden and many more. Bring a sandwich and have a picnic… but wait, there’s more! In the left part of the park, towards the water, you might get a surprise. Valbyparken is also home to alpacas that are running around in their own little gated community. Take a walk and have a look but don’t get too close. For everyone’s sake.
Enjoy a day in the giant Valby Park and meet the alpacas. Photo: iamcopenhagen.com
Go for a swim at the Sluseholmen harbor bath
Why go to the beach if you can jump in the nearby harbor? Don’t worry. It’s not as dodgy or as dangerous as you might think. The canals in Copenhagen are ideal for swimming. The water is clean and calm and there are even lifeguards at the harbor baths. You will find seveal harbor baths around the city with Islands Brygge being the busiest while this one is more quiet. Sluseholmen harbor bath offers two pools for swimmers and divers, a children’s pool and a youth pool.
Take a dip. Sluseholmen harbor bath is the place to go on a hot summers day.
Visit the sustainable haven at BaneGaarden
This is a true hidden gem, and it can be quite hard to find but Google Maps is your friend. Located behind the railway tracks between Vesterbro and Sydhavnen, BaneGaarden is a little urban, entrepreneurial haven with a garden and some barns. All made of sustainable materials. Even the stage in the courtyard is made from plastic. You can always come by for coffee, food or a drink but it seems like anything could happen here. A workshop, concert, talks or who knows what.
You might have to go on a little adventure to find this hidden gem. But it’s worth it.
Take a stroll around Fiskerihavnen in Sydhavnen
This is one of these places that may not be around too much longer, unfortunately. Fiskerihavnen is a real little fishing village with a proud maritime heritage. Rough yet idyllic. Some people live in house boats, other in creative cottages and some just come here to do their fishing. You won’t find fine dining or cafés. But you will get a sense of what Sydhavnen was like years ago.
Chill time at Teglværket
In Teglholmen you will find Teglværket. A former warehouse, now a venue for big parties, flea markets and much more as well as you can come here to enjoy a drink and have a bite to eat while you have your feet planted in the sand. Still a hidden gem for many Copenhageners.
Teglværket – a place for fun! Photo: Teglvaerket.nu
How to get around in Sydhavnen
The neighborhood of Sydhavnen is 4-5 kilometers from the city center, and that means you should either rely on a bike or public transport. Luckily it’s super easy to get around by bike with bike lanes connecting Sydhavnen to Vesterbro or Central Copenhagen. If you prefer public transportation you can catch the S-train from either Sydhavn Station or Sjælør Station to Copenhagen Central, Nørreport, etc.
Where should I stay in Sydhavnen?
Whether you are looking to stay in the modern part of the neighborhood in Sluseholmen or Teglholmen or in “the real” Sydhavnen, Airbnb is definitely your best bet. There are a few hotels around, such as Scandic Sydhavnen, however these are primarily meant for business travelers and big groups and they are all located by the main roads.
In Sluseholmen, Teglholmen and Engholmene you can find modern, convenient apartments in all sizes – with elevators, heated floors and big balconies, probably also with sea view. If you pick an Airbnb in the old part of Sydhavnen you will stay in more traditional apartment buildings, most likely with less convenience but at the same time more budget friendly.
What to expect from an Airbnb in Copenhagen? Read our guide!
If you’re checking into an Airbnb in Sluseholmen, this might be your view. Photo: Maria Sattrup.
You may be able to see most of Copenhagen’s sights in one day, but what’s the rush? Forget about a quick getaway and enjoy a real vacation in Copenhagen with 1 week in Copenhagen. This itinerary will give you a chance to experience the real Copenhagen and the hidden gems as well as it will show you where to mix and mingle with the Danes. Read on and figure out how to slow travel your way through Copenhagen in the summertime.
Welcome to your 1 week in Copenhagen. Whether you arrive at the airport or Central Station, take it easy! Grab a hotdog and take the metro, bus or S-train to your chosen destination. It’s not that there are not tons of great hotels to choose from but if you want to blend in and become part of Copenhagen, we highly recommend checking into an Airbnb. Preferably in Nørrebro, Vesterbro, Østerbro, Frederiksberg or Amager where you get the neighborhood feel without being too far from the city center.
Ditch the hotel and stay in an Airbnb when in Copenhagen
Afternoon: A walk in the park
Let’s assume it’s sunny and nice out. Get takeout from the local kebab place or grab a salad in the supermarket and head to a nearby park. If you’re staying in Nørrebro, you might want to check out Assistens Cemetery, or go to Fælledparken or Østre Anlæg in case you’re staying in Østerbro. In Frederiksberg the obvious choice would be Frederiksberg Gardens, while Amager is all about the beach. Lie down, smell the grass and enjoy your lunch.
On your way back, stop by the grocery store and buy whatever you need for your breakfast tomorrow morning.
Copenhagen is home to plenty of green oases. Not least Frederiksberg Gardens. Photo: Maria Sattrup.
Evening: Eat local
No matter what neighborhood you’re staying in, you will find lots of great dining options. Check out earlybird.dk or r2n.dk if you’re looking to save a little money.
Day 2: Go sightseeing
9 am: Get up and get ready
Admitted! This day has nothing to do with slow travel but you might as well get it over with. Shower, have breakfast and wear something comfy. This is your super touristy day and you’re going sightseeing!
10.30 am: Rent a bike…
If you want to feel like a local, you need to get around like a local. There are several ways to rent a bike. If you want the authentic bicycle, many local bike shops offer rental bikes that will blend in perfectly. If you don’t mind looking like a tourist as you ride around town, get the Donkey Republic or the Bycyklen app and locate a bike nearby.
Rule number 1: Rent a bike! Photo: iamcopenhagen.com
… and get touristy
Roll down the street and get comfortable on your bike, then head to Central Copenhagen. Don’t be late for the guard shift at Amalienborg, which takes place at 12 pm. Beware that you won’t be the only one there so get there a bit early if you can. It’s a monarchical show off and if you want to add a bit of excitement, try to see how close you can get to the guards before they start yelling at you.
After checking out the guards doing their thing, go to Marble Church across from Amalienborg and from there ride your bike down Bredgade, pass the Gefion Fountain and go the The Little Mermaid at Langelinje. Catch a glimpse of the little copper statue – if she’s not completely blocked by other tourists – and head to Nyhavn.
1 pm: Lunch time
If you want to try the traditional smørrebrød (open rye sandwich), stay in Nyhavn. Otherwise you can cross the bridge from Nyhavn to Christianshavn and have lunch at Broens Street Food.
Street food at Broens Gadekøkken at Inderhavnsbroen, right across from Nyhavn. Photo: iamcopenhagen.com
2 pm: Pit stop at Christiania
Ride your bike through Christianshavn in the direction of Freetown Christiania, park your bike and take a stroll through the colorful neighborhood. Take a quick walk through Pusher Street and explore the side streets. You might want to grab a cup of coffee somewhere and maybe play backgammon at Nemoland. Stay as long as you feel like before heading to the next tourist hot spot.
4 pm: To the tower
Jump on the bike again and cross Knippelsbro, pass Christiansborg and get off your bike at Højbro Plads. Walk through Købmagergade (walking street) to Rundetårn, Round Tower, and enjoy a bit of exercise when you walk up the tower. Enjoy the view and walk down again.
5 pm: Zen time at Kongens Have
Kongens Have (King’s Garden) offers a view of Rosenborg Castle, but most importantly it’s a great place to relax and meet the locals, who just got off from work. Bring beer, soda or whatever you like and enjoy the late afternoon sun.
6 am: Food and drinks at Kayak Bar
No need to dress up. Move on to Kayak Bar and grab a seat. You may have to wait a bit, but it’s worth it. Enjoy a casual dinner and drinks, maybe at a shared table, and stay for as long as you like… who knows. You might make new friends.
If you have had too much to drink, leave the bike and get it tomorrow. Otherwise bring it on the metro.
Kayak Bar – one of Copenhagen’s coolest hangouts. Photo: iamcopenhagen.com
Day 3: Relax and recharge
AM: Wake up slowly
Today is about winding down and recharging. Bring your breakfast to the balcony or have brunch in bed. No rush.
Noon ish: Relax by the water
Who would have known! Copenhagen is actually a brilliant destination for beach bums. Go to Amager Beach for real beach life or to Svanemøllen Beach if you’re staying in outer Østerbro. Or do as many Copenhageners prefer – spend your day at the canals.
Copenhagen offers plenty of great harbor hangouts for sunbathing and swimming with Islands Brygge as the most popular spot, booming with primarily young people. Other options are Fisketorvet, Sandkaj in Nordhavn, Sluseholmen or in Christianshavn by Broens Street Food.
Beachy vibes in the middle of the city. Photo: iamcopenhagen.com
Evening: BBQ or picnic
Stay out if the weather allows and enjoy a simple barbeque if you’re up for it. Otherwise get pizza, sushi or kebab and enjoy the last sunrays of the day.
Day 4: Hello sailor!
11 ish: Go sailing
Pack a bag with extra clothes, a towel and a few snacks and ride your bike to your chosen boat rental. If you are looking for electric boats that are easy to navigate there are two good options: Friendships in Christianshavn and GoBoat in Islands Brygge. Note that you have to book these boats in advance. Another option is Copenhagen Boat Rent by Fisketorvet, which offers motorboats. It is not possible to book a boat at Copenhagen Boat Rent – you simply just have to show up and wait. On a sunny day it can take a while. While you wait you might as well enjoy an hour at the pool or wait by the pier. That’s what slow travel is all about – enjoying the moment between the moments.
The advantage of GoBoat and Friendships is that the boat trip is more comfortable and you can sit around a table. The downside is that you have to book in advance and you need to return the boat on time. The motorboats from Copenhagen Boat Rent are able to go faster, however they are not as comfy and won’t seat as many people. The greatest advantage is that you don’t have to book in advance and you can keep the boat for as long as you want.
Explore the canals in your own pace like a true slow traveler.
Afternoon: Enjoy Copenhagen from the water
It’s not entirely up to you, where you want to go with your boat. There are certain rules. But it would make sense going through Holmens Canal, around Christiansborg, continue by Nyhavn and cross the water and sail to the backside of Christiania. Stay here for a bit, have a chat with other sailors passing by and jump in the water if you feel like it. Once you’ve had your break, continue through Christianshavn and back to your boat rent.
Want to experience the water in a different way? Rent a kayak at Kayak Republic.
Evening: Cool down after a hot day on the water
A day on the water is fun but it can also be exhausting. So do whatever makes you happy but don’t stress about it. You have 1 week in Copenhagen, which gives you plenty of time to explore it all. Check out Meatpacking District if you haven’t already done so. Or head back to your Airbnb for an early night.
Enjoy a night out in Meatpacking District.
Day 5: Relax at Refshaleøen
AM: Wake up
Wake up, eat your breakfast and take it slowly. Don’t forget – you have 1 week in Copenhagen and it’s meant to be enjoyed. Today is about hanging out and living life. Again!
12 pm: Refshaleøen
Refshaleøen is possibly the coolest part of Copenhagen! Known for super fancy restaurants such as Amass and Alchemist as well as Copenhagen’s biggest food market, Reffen, is more than just food. However, this is where locals as well as tourists go to eat and hang out on a sunny day. In this place your lunch could easily last for five hours!
You can easily spend all day at Reffen but there’s more to the old, industrial island. Looking for wellness? Head to Copenhot for some outdoor jacuzzi time. It’s even possible to go for a ride in a floating hot tub. Want to mingle with the locals over a beer or a glass of wine, go to La Banchina – once a hidden gem by a small harbor, now a popular hangout with a great mellow vibe. Looking for a posh beach club? Also a possibility if you go to Halvandet.
Evening: Stay or go…
You may want to stay in Refshaleøen. If not you might want to go back to your apartment, get dressed and eat out. Let’s suggest Guldkroen in Nørrebro for a traditional pork feast – or explore what’s on the menu in some of Vesterbro’s many great restaurants. Do you think social dining could be fun? Then check out Absalon in Vesterbro.
You might want to taste it all at Reffen.
Day 6: Take a walk on the wild side
Morning and afternoon: Wake up and tie your shoes…
With yesterday’s calorie intake you might want to consider burning some. Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting the gym. Have a solid breakfast, tie your shoes and head to Amager for a day of walking the Amarmino. The Copenhagen version of The Camino.
Take the metro to DR Byen and start the hike. The full hike takes 5-6 hours. If that’s too much it’s possible to cut it short. The hike is a great contrast to the city and will take you by nature reserves, meadows, coastline and the small town of Dragør. A great hike if you’re up for it.
Amarminoen is a 26 kilometer hike from DR Byen to Dragør. Photo: Martin Heiberg.
Do you prefer a city walk? Tour the three parks Ørstedsparken, Botanical Garden and Østre Anlæg and continue to Kastellet. Or stroll down Nørrebrogade, Istedgade or Gammel Kongevej if you want to do a bit of shopping and experience some of the cool streets of Copenhagen.
Evening: Go somewhere nice!
Copenhagen is packed with great restaurant, and you definitely deserve to go somewhere nice. After dinner you may feel like a drink or two. Check out Meatpacking District in Vesterbro for a great party on weekends, Ravnsborggade in Nørrebro or Central Copenhagen for a variety of cocktail bars and clubs.
Enjoy a night out in Ravnsborggade. Photo: Maria Sattrup
Day 7: Repeat and enjoy the show!
Morning and afternoon: Do whatever makes you happy
Maybe you feel like another day at the beach, or perhaps you want to explore more of Refshaleøen. Basically you should enjoy your last day just the way you want to.
Want to find a hidden gem and get lost? Visit BaneGaarden, a little organic oasis hidden behind the railway tracks between Vesterbro and Sydhavn. Depending on the schedule there might be a concert, a beer tasting or another event going on – and of course, plenty of good food and coffee.
Evening: Go to a concert!
If you haven’t already done so during your 1 week in Copenhagen, you may want to visit Byhaven by Pumpehuset today, depending on whether or not there’s a concert – an outdoor venue where you can enjoy free concerts while having drinks and snacks.
If nothing is happening at Byhaven, maybe there’s a concert at Christiania – or even at Tivoli if you want to do something a bit more traditional but also touristy. Whatever you choose, make it a night to remember.
Visit Byhaven for a concert and a drink. Photo: Byhaven
Day 8: 1 week in Copenhagen has come to an end
Wake up, pack your bags and leave your Airbnb in proper condition. If you have time, enjoy a brunch at Mad & Kaffe, which you will find in Vesterbro, Amager, Nørrebro and Frederiksberg before heading to the airport or train station after this brilliant 1 week in Copenhagen.
The Copenhagen quickie: 1 night in Copenhagen itinerary
Going on a super quick city break to Copenhagen? While it is ideal to have to two days to explore Copenhagen, you can still experience a big part of the city in just one day. With the perfect itinerary for Copenhagen, one night in the city may just become the micro trip of the year. We can guarantee you to check off a great deal of Copenhagen highlights in a single day – but we can’t guarantee that you don’t want to come back for more.
Itinerary for Copenhagen – Day 1: Arrive. Explore. Eat. Indulge!
AM: Arrive and check in
With no time to waste we recommend you book a hotel with a central location with easy access to the M2 metro line or the train to CPH Airport. Ideally Central Copenhagen close to Kongens Nytorv or Nørreport or close to Central Station in Vesterbro.
Upon arrival take the train or metro to your chosen location, drop off your luggage at your hotel and head Langelinie.
11-12 am: The Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Castle
If you have the time go to check out The Little Mermaid at Langelinie around 11. Beware! You may be disappointed as she is quite little and doesn’t look too happy. Also you can expect to be met by a bunch of other tourists, who got the exact same idea. Nevertheless – the little bronze statue is among the Copenhagen highlights and the visit won’t take too much of your valuable time as it is basically along the way to Amalienborg, which is up next.
From The Mermaid continue to Amalienborg Castle – a walk that will take you about 10 minutes. The castle itself is quite modest compared to the Marble Church towering in the background, but if you wait for 12 o’clock you can see the guard change, which is a nice little traditional parade.
Guard change at Amalieborg Castle. Photo: Ange Loron.
1 pm: Marble Church, Nyhavn and lunch
If the church is open to visitors, have a look inside – otherwise head directly to Nyhavn and take a stroll on the sunny side. If you’re looking for a traditional lunch this is the place to have a seat and a taste of the famous open sandwiches – also known as smørrebrød – with herring, shrimp, roast beef and other delicious toppings.
Looking for something a bit less traditional? Cross the bridge and enjoy a casual street food lunch at Broens Street Food.
2 pm: On board – a tour of the canals
From Nyhavn you can catch the guided canal tours with either Stromma or Netto Boats. A great alternative to the regular “Hop on – hop off” bus rides. From the water you can see many of Copenhagen’s most important sights and a canal tour will guarantee you a quick view of the main highlights.
Most of the tours will sail by The Little Mermaid, the Opera, Christianshavn, Christiansborg Castle and the outskirts of Christiania. You will enjoy the view of Copenhagen’s towers and spiers, old houses, narrow canals and low bridges as well as the maritime life, which can be quite busy in the summertime. All in just one hour!
Explore the canals of Copenhagen on a boat ride. Photo: Thomas Rousing.
3.30 pm: Take a walk in Christiania
From Nyhavn cross the bridge to Christianshavn and continue to Christiania, a so-called “freetown” or an autonomous hippie village located in Christianshavn. Take a walk through Pusher Street while keeping your phones and cameras in your pocket, as it is not allowed to photograph in this part of the village.
While Pusher Street may seem a bit rough to some visitors, the village behind is quite idyllic and laid back with little boutiques, quirky houses and some great eateries.
Alternative afternoon itinerary for Copenhagen
If you’re not up for Christiania, take the yellow harbor bus to Refshaleøen and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at Reffen, Copenhagen’s biggest street food market with lots of stalls offering great snacks and drinks as well as a view over Copenhagen. Or settle down at La Banchina, a little gem located close to Reffen.
After enjoying a late afternoon under the sun, take the harbor bus back to Nyhavn and head back to your hotel to get changed for a night out.
Wine, dine and indulge! Reffen Street Food in Copenhagen offers a laid back atmosphere and great food.
6 pm: Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is fun, romantic, traditional – and very Danish! Also, the old amusement park offers a wide range of dining options.
Take a stroll through the streets, go on a few rides if you dare and head to your chosen restaurant. Are you here on a Friday you can enjoy the open air concert at 10 pm, while you can enjoy the fireworks on Saturdays at 11.45 pm.
Spend a night in Tivoli – a fairytale like oasis in the middle of the city. Photo: Anders Bøgild.
Late: Coctails or party all night
With only one night in Copenhagen it would be a shame to go to bed early. Luckily the city offers plenty of cocktail bars and breweries, depending on your mood and personality.
If you’re looking for a wide variety of bars, head to Meatpacking District in Vesterbro, just a 5-10 minute walk from Tivoli. This place gets busy and there’s basically a bar for whatever mood you’re in and the party tends to just as fabulous outside on the square as inside the bars.
If you’re looking for something a bit more classy or romantic, the cocktail bars around Gammel Strand is a great choice.
Enjoy a night out in Copenhagen. Photo: Magnus Larsen Ravn.
Itinerary for Copenhagen – Day 2: Until next time…
9 am: Breakfast and off to Copenhagen Airport
Oh no! Time to go already… and you may only have slept a few hours.
Grab your breakfast at the hotel or at the local bakery, pack your bags and head to the airport. Luckily it’s only a 15 minute metro or train ride away.
Looking for another itinerary for Copenhagen? Check out all itineraries here!
Grab a cinnamon roll on the way to the airport. Photo: Giuseppe Liverino.
Looking for another itinerary for Copenhagen…
Summertime, “slowcation”, Christmas or Copenhagen quickies? Check all itineraries for Copenhagen and be inspired for your next trip to Scandinavia’s “Capital of cool”!
