Copenhagen is home to an astounding 26 Michelin-star restaurants, two of the world’s oldest theme parks, and the world’s longest pedestrian-only shopping street.
Things To Do
1. Rent bikes and explore the city.
Our hotel, Copenhagen Island, had bikes to rent in the lobby and with a city full of bikes, I’m certain most hotels have them available for guests. This was the best way to see what the city had to offer and the bike paths and bridges have priority in this bike-friendly city.
2. Spend the day and night at Tivoli Gardens.
Tivoli is the world’s second oldest amusement park, and it was hands down the most beautiful park I’ve ever visited. Beyond the rides and roller coasters, there are manicured gardens, lighted decorative pathways, and delicious foods from around the world. Tivoli Gardens is so impressive, it’s said to be the park that inspired Walt Disney World.
3. Right outside of Copenhagen, is Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park!
Dating back to 1583, the city’s healing spring water attracted many people who eventually constructed tents and stalls to create Bakken. Here, you’ll find an 82 year old wooden roller coaster, along with plenty of entertainment for a day of wholesome family fun! There’s no cost to enter!
4. Take a Copenhagen Culinary bike tour with fellow foodies.
This is the best way to get all the must do foods in one day!
5. Vesterbro
Vesterbro has become a very trendy spot in Copenhagen and a must do when looking for a place to eat and shop! Istedgade is the “go-to street” in Vesterbro and where you’ll find most things.
6. Explore Nyhavn.
We biked from our hotel to Nyhavn, then parked and explored the historic Instagram-worthy area by foot. This is a very picturesque part of Copenhagen, with so many multicolored buildings and historic boats. Sit outside at Restaurant Havfruen for amazing food and people watching.
7. Rosenborg Castle
Just beyond Nyhavn is Rosenborg Castle. We walked to this castle after exploring Nyhavn, which was a great activity after eating through the cute cafes, restaurants, and bars. The King’s Garden at Rosenberg castle is the oldest and most visited park in Copenhagen. This 30 acres urban park was a great place to let the kid’s run around.
8. Strøget
Take a stroll down Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian-only streets. There is lots of fabulous boutiques along this street.
9. Little Mermaid Statue
Visit the Little Mermaid Statue, an ode to the famous fairy tale by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. While the statue itself is small, the history around it is not! We saw this statue while on our canal tour, and I’m glad we did because there were so many people crowded around, on land, trying to see the small statue.
10. Reffen
Enjoy amazing street food in Reffen, an outdoor shipyard turned creative playground.
11. Freetown Christiania
Visit Freetown Christiania, a self-governing community inside Copenhagen. Christiania is a car-free neighborhood with colorful street art and unique cafes. Please note Christiania has it’s own set of rules and regulations, including no pictures and no running.
12. Church of our Saviour
Climb the spire at the Church of our Saviour for 360 views of Copenhagen. This is an easy climb, with just about 400 steps.
13. Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg
Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg. Each day at 12 noon, the Danish Royal Guard parades through the streets of Copenhagen, ending at Amalienborg where the old watch is relieved with the new watch.
Places To Eat
1. Conditori La Grace
Have coffee and cake at Conditori La Grace. The oldest pastry shop in Denmark, dating back to 1870. Highly recommend getting the house speciality, Sportskage.
2. Faergekro Restaurant
Go to Faergekro Restaurant for a traditional Danish meal, including 10 different ways of cooking Herrings. (It’s a Danish thing…)
3. Cafe Dyrehaven
Cafe Dyrehaven for a perfect Danish twist on avocado toast paired with a cozy coffee.
4. Meyers Bageri
Try a kanelsnurrer (cinnamon whirls) at Meyers Bageri, a local chain started by a famous Danish chef!
5. Hallernes Smørrebrød
You can’t leave Copenhagen without indulging in some traditional smørrebrød. A smørrebrødis equivalent to an open face sandwich and seems like the combinations are endless. The best variety I found was at Hallernes Smørrebrød, but almost all my suggested restaurants offer them!
Where to Stay
Manon Les Suites was all over my feed when looking for hotels. This unique hotel will give you a 5-star experience with its bohemian luxury design.
Marriott Copenhagen was our lodging last night’s lodging and had much bigger rooms than Copenhagen Island. This Marriott is more centrally based and located on the harbor.
