Copenhagen Denmark 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Copenhagen Itinerary:

This itinerary balances popular attractions with hidden gems and local experiences. You can customize it based on your interests and time constraints!

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Copenhagen, check into your hotel (consider the Generator Copenhagen for a social hostel experience or Hotel Kong Arthur for a boutique option), and leave your bags. Grab a delicious pastry from a local bakery like Lagkagehuset and explore the charming streets of Nyhavn, the iconic harbor with colorful houses and historic ships.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Rosenborg Castle, home to the Danish crown jewels, and stroll through the beautiful King’s Garden (Kongens Have) surrounding it. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the garden or head to the nearby Cafe Norden for a classic Danish smørrebrød experience.

  • Evening:

    • Walk: Take a walk around the historic Christianshavn, exploring its canals and unique architecture.
    • Dinner: Indulge in a traditional Danish dinner at Restaurant Krebsegaarden (reservations recommended) for their acclaimed “New Nordic” cuisine.

Things to consider:

  • Copenhagen Card: If you plan on doing lots of sightseeing, the Copenhagen Card might be worth it. This card provides free access to many attractions and museums.
  • Transportation:
    • Copenhagen has a fantastic public transportation system with buses, trains, and the metro all interconnected.
    • Consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card for unlimited travel on public transport.
    • Alternatively, you can use single tickets or day passes for public transport.

Day 2-3: Copenhagen Classics & Hygge

  • Morning: Visit the Little Mermaid statue, a must-see landmark, and enjoy the charming views of the harbor.

  • Afternoon: Explore Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park with beautiful architecture, gardens and rides.

  • Things to consider:

    • Evening: Enjoy a “hygge” evening at a cozy cafe or restaurant.

  • Copenhagen Card: Offers free entry to the Little Mermaid statue and Tivoli Gardens.

  • Nyhavn: This area can be crowded, especially in the summer months.

Other activities:

  • Visit the historic Rosenborg Castle: Explore the beautiful rooms and gardens, and marvel at the dazzling crown jewels inside.
  • Enjoy a scenic canal cruise: See Copenhagen from a different perspective and relax on the water.
  • Explore the city’s canals by boat.
  • Wander through the charming streets of Christianshavn: This district offers a unique blend of history, culture, and tranquility.

Things to eat & drink:

  • Smørrebrød: Enjoy this traditional Danish open-faced sandwich for a variety of toppings.
  • Pastries: Sample delicious pastries like “kanelsnegl” (cinnamon bun) or “wienerbrød” (Danish pastry).
  • New Nordic Cuisine: Explore the innovative and fresh flavors of this culinary movement, which focuses on using local ingredients and traditional techniques with a modern twist.

Restaurants:

  • Day 1: Enjoy a modern take on classic Danish cuisine at Restaurant Krebsegaarden, known for its focus on seasonal dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

  • Day 2: Try the iconic “smørrebrød” at:

    • Torvehallerne Market: A variety of stalls offer delicious traditional smørrebrød options.
    • Restaurant Aamanns: Enjoy a modern Danish experience in a beautiful setting.

Day 4-5: Beyond the Tourist Traps

  • Day 4:

    • Visit the National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) for a glimpse into the country’s history and Viking heritage.

  • Explore Christiania: A unique freetown with its own community rules, art scene, and a sense of freedom.

  • Enjoy traditional Danish “smørrebrød” at:

    • Restaurant Christiania: This restaurant is known for its innovative and fresh approach to classic Danish dishes.

  • Christiania: A haven for artists and musicians, this alternative community offers a unique experience with its own set of rules and a bohemian vibe.

Things to eat & drink:

  • Try traditional “smørrebrød” at:

    • Restaurant Christianshavns Torv: Enjoy local delicacies like “frikadeller” (meatballs) or “smørrebrød” with pickled herring, smoked salmon, or roast beef.

  • Explore the unique culinary scene in Christiania, a community known for its focus on sustainability and organic practices.

Day 6-7: Beyond the City Walls

  • Explore Rosenborg Castle’s gardens: A haven of greenery and tranquility amidst the bustling city.
  • Try “Dyrehaven” (The Deer Garden) in Roskilde: Enjoy a relaxing day out in nature with the opportunity to see deer roaming freely.

Let me know if you’d like to explore specific themes for each day, such as:

  • History & Culture: We can focus on Viking museums, historical landmarks like Rosenborg Castle, or delve into the life and times of Hans Christian Andersen in “Freetown Christiania”

  • Foodie Adventures: Need some recommendations for restaurants? Tell me your favorite type of cuisine or your budget.

  • Art & Design: We can explore the unique and vibrant art scene beyond Copenhagen’s city center, checking out:

    • Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: Experience art and architecture with breathtaking views of the Øresund Sound.

  • Enjoy a “smørrebrød” picnic by the canal: Explore the variety offered at “The Louisiana Cafe” and experience the beauty of the harbor while savoring the flavors of this Danish tradition.

  • Explore: Enjoy a day trip to Roskilde, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating Viking history.

  • Food & Drink: Sample local delicacies like “smørrebrød” (open-faced sandwiches) and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city’s historic harbor.

Things to note:

  • Food: Food markets are a great way to experience different types of “smørrebrød.”

  • Other Activities: Copenhagen offers many other activities and attractions beyond the classic “Tivoli” experience, such as:

    • The Round Tower (Rundetårn) in Copenhagen

  • Freetown Options: The location of the “Louisiana Museum” is a great example of a place outside of the city center.

  • Food:

Rosenborg Castle,

  • The National Gallery: Offers a diverse collection of art, from Danish masters to contemporary artists.

Remember to adjust the itinerary and budget-friendly options based on your preferences.