A Guide to Copenhagen for First-Time Visitors

Copenhagen, spread across more than 400 islands, reflects its Viking past alongside modern city life. The Danish concept of hygge is evident in cozy cafés and everyday routines, while cycling makes getting around easy. The city is known for its high-end food scene and unique cultural touches, from being the home of Hans Christian Andersen, author of The Little Mermaid, to the birthplace of LEGO.

Copenhagen Card

Depending on your plans, the Copenhagen Card can be a convenient and cost-effective option. It includes unlimited use of public transportation within the city and to nearby attractions, along with free entry to major sights such as Tivoli Gardens, the city’s palaces, the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, and a classic canal tour.

Where To Eat

Breakfast/Cafes

Mad & Kaffe - Mix and match breakfast plates with their customizable DIY brunch.

GRØD - Specialty porridge made with creative toppings and flavors.

Juno The Bakery - Artisan pastries, including cardamom buns, made by a former Noma pastry chef.

Markets & Street Food

Reffen Street Food Market - Outdoor market with food trucks serving anything from traditional street food and international cuisine to cocktails and breweries. Seating if offered by fire pits, in picnic tables, or along the water.

Torvehallerne - Indoor market featuring smørrebrød and a variety of Danish food stalls.

Restaurants

La Banchina - A casual waterfront spot with a sauna and designated swimming area, serving pastries, coffee, wine, beer, and fresh seafood.

Gasoline Grill - Casual, globally acclaimed burger joint using organic, high-quality ingredients.

Madklubben Vesterbro - Serving classic Scandinavian plates with a modern twist.

Noma, Alchemist, Høst - Fine dining/Michelin starred

Bars & Rooftops

Lidkoeb Bar - Low-lit, brick-walled bar serving in-house creations and an extensive whiskey selection.

Manon Les Suites - Rooftop bar that leads you past the iconic junglefish pool with surrounding greenery.

Food To Try

Wienerbrød: A traditional Danish pastry. Spandauer is the oldest and most classic, filled with jam or custard. Kanelsnegle, a cinnamon snail pastry, is also a popular option.

Smørrebrød: Open-faced sandwiches served on rye bread with a variety of toppings, from pickled herring and cold cuts to cheese and spreads. A staple Danish lunch.

Pølser: Denmark’s street-food hot dog, typically served in a soft bun and topped with mustard, remoulade, pickles, and fried onions.

Things To Do

Tour the Nyhavn Canals

The colorful 17th-century waterfront lined with historic ships and cafés, where Hans Christian Andersen once lived. Take a canal tour, walk along the quay to see the houses, or stop for a meal at one of the restaurants or cafés.

Shop at Strøget

This is one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets with shops, cafés, and historic squares. Explore the smaller connecting streets and stop at the picturesque Gråbrødretorv square for a coffee or a bite to eat.

Visit Freetown Christiania

Walk through this self-governing, artistic neighborhood with colorful murals, cafés, and a bohemian atmosphere.

Bike Around the City

Experience Copenhagen like a local on its extensive network of bike lanes and scenic routes.

Spend an Evening at Tivoli Gardens

One of the world’s oldest amusement parks with rides, gardens, and live performances. Entry is ~144 DKK/22 USD.

Tour One of the Palaces

Christiansborg Palace - Best for modern government as it houses the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Royal Reception Rooms. Visit to tour the rooms and halls. Tickets are ~ 215 DKK/33 USD

Amalienborg Palace - Best for the seeing the royal residence and watching the Changing of The Guard. Tickets are ~ 125 DKK/19 USD

Rosenberg Palace - Best for history and viewing royal treasures as it houses the Danish crown jewels. Tickets are 140 DKK/21 USD

Other Options

Frederiksborg Slot

The largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, located 30–40 minutes outside the city. (Not to be confused with Frederiksberg Slot, just outside the city.)

Viking Ship Museum

Located 35-40 minutes outside the city in Roskilde, this museum displays well-preserved Viking ships and exhibits detailing Denmark’s maritime history.

Day Trip to Sweden

Take a 45-minute train ride across the Øresund Bridge to Malmö. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, with walkable streets and waterfront areas — an easy way to experience Swedish culture before returning to Copenhagen.

Rundetaarn (Round Tower)

A historic tower in the city center with panoramic views. It's not a must-see as the view isn't as impressive as other European cities due to the skyline in Copenhagen being relatively low.