14 Cool Things to do in Copenhagen | Itinerary 2 Days
So, you’re thinking of planning some Copenhagen travel. Perhaps you’re chasing hygge, the cozy Danish culture; or, are interested in exploring the city where beloved storyteller, Hans Christian Andersen, lived for a time. Maybe you’ve heard that the country of Denmark is consistently ranked one of the happiest places in the world. Or, maybe you happened upon cheap flights to Denmarks’ capital city and are just now figuring out what all the buzz is about. Whatever your reason, you won’t be disappointed by this Scandinavian city and this itinerary for Copenhagen can be your guide to a great weekend in Copenhagen.
My 2 days in Copenhagen were part solo travel, part travel with a friend. I spent a little over a day exploring the city on my own before a friend joined me. I wandered Copenhagen in 2 days almost entirely on foot and felt perfectly safe the entire time.
While we explored many of the typical tourist attractions, we also ventured off the beaten path to visit interesting sites and unusual (but delicious) foodie stops. Read on for my picks of 13 cool things to do with 2 days in Copenhagen!
Tip: If you’re visiting Copenhagen in May, like I did, bring a light jacket with you.
Copenhagen FAQ
When to visit Copenhagen?
If you’re not a fan of the cold, you might prefer to visit in summer months. But keep in mind you’ll likely be dealing with larger tourism crowds and costs this time of year. When I visited in May, the weather was still chilly.
While I’m normally anti-cold, Copenhagen is one I would recommend visiting in the fall or even winter. Not only will you face less crowds, you’ll get to experience firsthand the concept of ‘hygge’ or coziness that emerges in the colder months!
How long to stay in Copenhagen?
If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Copenhagen, I recommend 2-3 days. I was able to see plenty through the 2-day Copenhagen itinerary I share in this post.
How to get from airport to city in Copenhagen?
You have many options — taxi, bus, metro. The trains run 24/7 and will get you to the city in only 15 minutes, so this is probably your quickest and most affordable option!
Copenhagen Itinerary – 2 Days in Copenhagen
1. Grab coffee and a danish at Conditori La Glace
At Copenhagen’s oldest pastry shop, they still serve coffee and tea in a pot, so you can refill your cup to your heart’s content. Founded in 1870, this historic Copenhagen bakery offers a beautiful ambience and delightful treats to help you start your day with satisfaction.
They’re known for their sports cake, but don’t be fooled by the name! It’s actually quite an indulgence — crushed nougat, whipped cream, macaroon bottom and a light, caramelized pastry dough. I’m drooling! Add this stop to your Copenhagen food plans.
Sadly, I was unaware of this house specialty when I visited but the danish I ordered was also delicious. If you go and order the sports cake, let me know your thoughts!
Skoubogade 3 – 1158 København
2. Rent a bike Copenhagen style
Everyone, from very young kids, to pregnant ladies and the elderly, rides bikes in Copenhagen. Get around the city like a local by taking a bike tour or renting a bike on your own and wheeling around the city on two wheels.
You’ll see the public bike share stands called Bycyklen all around town. They’re simple to rent but you’ll need to create an account. More information about that, here.
Note, these are ‘intelligent electronic’ bikes which may take some getting used to. I recommend trying one out in a low-traffic zone, like a park. We, on the other hand, were overly ambitious and attempted to ride them in the heart of the city. Needless to say, we didn’t last long!
Even better, see Copenhagen by bike with a guide! Sign up for a Copenhagen bike tour, there are plenty to choose from. Here are my top two recommendations:
- This 3-hour city highlights Copenhagen bike tour through Viator
- This 3-hour culinary Copenhagen bike tour ! Combine a Copenhagen food tour to experience danish food while experiencing a danish bike ride. Yum.
3. View Islamic Art at David’s Collection
Enjoy museums or art galleries but don’t want to waste a whole day in one? If you’re considering visiting a museum in Copenhagne, David’s Samling (Collection) is the perfect way to spend an hour or so immersed in interesting art.
The Islamic collection here is the largest of its kind in Scandinavia and is one of the top ten most important ones in the Western world.
Islamic art pieces from Spain to India, between the 7th and 19th centuries are featured here. While I was particularly drawn to the collection, being Muslim, I’m confident it is a wonderful experience for any art, culture or history lover.
Kronprinsessegade 30 – 1306 København K
4. Admire the King’s Garden and Rosenborg Castle
Truly one of the most beautifully relaxing attractions in Copenhagen is the King’s Garden. With expansive lawns, flower beds, interesting sculptures and castle views it’s a great escape for the thoughtful daydreamer.
Spend some time walking through the garden, or sit and take in the surrounding views. Observe the families enjoying a great day and snap some photos of the castle at the head of it all.
Purchase a ticket to step foot inside Rosenborg Castle. You’ll see the Knights’ Hall, commemorative tapestries, Denmark’s crown jewels and an impressive Venetian glass collection.
Money-saving tip! If you’re planning to visit several pay-to-play sites (such as Tivoli Gardens, Church of our Saviour, Rosenborg Castle, etc) consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card to save time and money.
5. Stroll through Nyhavn
Very likely, most of the pictures you’ve seen of Copenhagen are of this waterfront entertainment district. When you picture Copenhagen, you probably see colorful 17th and 18th century townhouses set along the water.
This is Nyhavn and, while it might seem overrated, it is every bit as fun to walk through as it looks. Nyhavn feels like the bustling heart of Copenhagen, with music playing as you visit the bars and eateries in the area.
If you’re wondering what to eat in Copenhagen, why not try a classic? Pop into a nearby restaurant and order a traditional Danish smørrebrød for lunch. This is an open-faced sandwich often involving a piece of rye bread and various toppings like cold cuts, fish, veggies, cheeses and other spreads — a must eat in Copenhagen.
6. Take in the architecture of The Old Stock Exchange
While not open to the public, the beautiful architecture of The Old Stock Exchange deserves a viewing and some photographs. Originally built with a roof covered in lead, much of that was used to make cannon balls while Sweden occupied Copenhagen.
The roof was later covered again, this time in copper. It’s an interesting building to look at as you pass by, nowadays used mainly for parties, conferences and other such events.
7. Eat a plant-based meal at 42Raw
With several locations around town, including one on the waterfront, eating a plant-based meal at this Copenhagen vegan restaurant is a cinch. I’ll start by saying, this is not the type of place I’d normally eat at voluntarily.
In this instance, the friend I was traveling with maintained a vegan diet so I agreed to check this place out with her. As the name would imply, the hot food options were limited. Though it seems this has since changed, as they’ve now introduced meatless patties for burgers to their menu.
But, as it stands, this is the place where I tried zoodles for the first time before they really became popular! If you’re looking for a unique food experience or a taste of Copenhagen vegan food, definitely give 42Raw a chance.
8. Climb the Serpentine Spire in the Christianshavn area
One of Denmark’s most famous churches, Church of our Saviour, also carries the popular serpentine spire. It takes 400 steps to get to the top, and the last 150 of these are outside of the spire! If you’re afraid of heights, this may not be the activity for you but if you make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views and a cool experience under your belt.
9. Experience Freetown Christiania
One of the coolest things you can do while in Copenhagen is visit Christiania, the alternative neighborhood started by hippies. Step into what feels like the 70s as you take in the graffitied walls, eclectic architecture (many of the inhabitants here built their own houses), and laid back ‘green light district’ (also known as Pusher Street).
Once known for open drug sales (no longer), Freetown Christiania is home to about 1000 people who play by their own rules.
Head over and check it out on your own or book a guided tour with a local. For more details about Christiania, read this.
10. Have lunch at Morgenstedet in Christiania
Again, not a place I would have sought out on my own but one my vegan friend insisted upon — and I am glad for it! Morgenstedet is an organic, vegetarian restaurant in Copenhagen that serves up fresh, affordable and hearty dishes in the most charming of setups. It’s housed in a sizable white home with some seating indoors, and a lot more in the backyard.
It operates on the concept of a voluntary workforce, and the menu changes depending on who’s cooking on a given day. Overall, this was one of the best meals I had in Copenhagen and I’d highly recommend the experience.
11. Play at Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is the second oldest amusement park in the world, and where Walt Disney found his inspiration for Disney World. Here you’ll find beautiful gardens and architecture alongside the fun rides. And rumor has it, as of 2017, Tivoli Gardens has added a new virtual reality ride to the mix.
Normally, I’m not the type to visit a new city and spend time at an amusement park. But in the instance of Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen, it’s a must. After all, even Hans Christian Andersen frequented the place, and it is one of the city’s top attractions. There’s something for everyone at Tivoli Gardens!
12. Visit The Little Mermaid at Langelinje Pier
This sculpture was a gift from a Danish brewer to the city after he fell in love with the character in a ballet representation of The Little Mermaid. It’s one of the iconic sites one is quick to recognize, and if you are a huge fan of Disney or the mermaid then certainly give this site a visit.
However, speaking honestly for most folks this will likely not be worth your time. The sculpture is located well outside of the city center and takes some time to get to. And, once you’re there, it looks rather small and unimpressive. Plus, there’s little else to do in the area. If you’re short on time, skip this one FOMO-free.
13. Go Couchsurfing in Copenhagen!
Did you see this one coming? Probably not! Look, Copenhagen is an expensive city. When I first visited, I was more or less living on a student budget. Couchsurfing allowed me a FREE stay (minus the small token of appreciation I brought for my hosts) basically walking distance or in range of public transportation to everywhere I wanted to go.
Is couchsurfing right for you? Check out my experiences with Couchsurfing in Copenhagen, Amsterdam and Istanbul.
If you’re interested in meeting some local friends, or simply strapped for cash you might consider coushurfing while in Copenhagen. If you do, please read up on how to stay safe while doing so. You can always reach out to me with questions, as well.
14. Learn the ‘hygge’ meaning
Hygge is a popular concept in Copenhagen, and you can learn all about it as part of a small guided culture tour. The tour include coffee and a traditional Danish pastry. Need I say more? This one is likely to sell out so sign up and add it to your Copenhagen itinerary now!
