Denmark · Europe
Guide to Copenhagen
Bike city, design, New Nordic food, and hygge waterfront
Overview
Copenhagen is a city where bikes beat cars and design isn’t just style—it’s a way of life. Bike lanes as wide as traffic lanes carry locals past Nyhavn’s colorful canal houses, a harbor clean enough for summer swims, and the former industrial district of Vesterbro, now packed with specialty coffee shops. Denmark’s capital birthed the New Nordic movement that reshaped global cuisine, yet it also knows how to have fun at Tivoli, the world’s oldest operating amusement park. Yes, it’s expensive, but the quality of life, safety, and efficiency make every krone feel worth it.
Highlights
Nyhavn
A 17th-century canal lined with colorful wooden houses and old ships, the city’s iconic postcard scene. Arrive before 9 AM for crowd-free photos, and eat in the back alleys—canal-side restaurants are far pricier.
Tivoli Gardens
An amusement park opened in 1843, featuring a historic wooden roller coaster and illuminated gardens. Entry is separate from ride tickets—only get a multi-ride pass if you plan to go on more than four attractions.
Rosenborg Castle
A Renaissance palace housing Denmark’s crown jewels in a glass-walled underground vault. Visit in the morning, then picnic in Kongens Have, the city’s oldest public park, which is free to enter.
Christiania
A self-governing former military barracks area with DIY homes, murals, and its own community rules. Respect photo bans in certain zones and avoid photographing any illegal trade activity.
Vor Frelsers Kirke Tower
A baroque church in Christianshavn with an external spiral staircase winding outward to the summit. Around 400 steps, closed in extreme weather, and not recommended for those afraid of heights.
Refshaleøen District
A former shipyard now home to Reffen street food, a harbor sauna, and art spaces. Most vibrant from May to September; reach it by bus 2A or harbor ferry using standard transit tickets.
Food
Smørrebrød
Dark rye bread topped with herring, fried fish, or beef and precisely arranged garnishes. Classic versions at Aamanns or Torvehallerne, 90 to 160 krone per piece.
Pølser hot dog
A long red sausage from street kiosks with fried onions, pickles, and remoulade. Around 40 to 55 krone— the cheapest quick meal in the city center.
Reffen Street Food
Dozens of international food containers by the Refshaleøen waterfront. Portions 90 to 150 krone, open seasonally from around April to October.
Kanelsnegl and specialty coffee
Danish cinnamon swirl pastry layered with butter from bakeries like Juno or Hart. Pastries 35 to 55 krone, filter coffee around 45 krone.
Getting around
Bike rentals
The most Danish way to get around, with daily rentals around 100 to 150 krone or Donkey Republic by the hour. Always use front and rear lights—legally required after dark.
Copenhagen Metro
Four driverless automated lines running 24/7; a two-zone ticket is about 24 krone. The M2 line connects the airport to the city center in 15 minutes.
Rejsekort and DOT app
The rechargeable Rejsekort offers cheaper per-trip fares, while the DOT Tickets app is handy for short-term visitors. A 24-hour City Pass costs around 110 krone and covers metro, buses, trains, and ferries.
Harbour Bus and S-tog
The yellow ferries on routes 991 and 992 serve as regular public transport with standard tickets—not paid tours. The S-tog connects the suburbs and provides access to the Louisiana Museum in Humlebæk.
Frequently asked questions
Does Denmark use the euro?
No. Denmark is an EU and Schengen member but retains the Danish krone (DKK). Some tourist shops accept euros at poor rates, so pay by card for the best exchange. One euro is roughly 7.45 krone due to the pegged rate.
Is Copenhagen really that expensive?
Yes for restaurants, alcohol, and taxis—but it’s manageable. Biking eliminates transport costs, many attractions like palace gardens and harbour baths are free, and a smørrebrød lunch is far cheaper than dinner at the same spot.
Should I rent a bike if I’m not used to cycling?
If you’re not comfortable in city traffic, start with canal-side or park routes before venturing downtown. Alternatively, the metro is highly efficient, and walking works well in Indre By. Biking remains the cheapest option if you’re confident.
Is the Little Mermaid worth visiting?
The statue is small and often crowded, so set realistic expectations. The real value lies in the walk: the route from Nyhavn passes Amalienborg, Kastellet, and the waterfront, making the visit worthwhile even if you only stop for five minutes at the statue itself.
How do I visit Sweden from Copenhagen?
Malmö in Sweden is just 35 minutes away by Øresundståg train from Copenhagen Station, with one-way tickets around 120 krone. Bring your passport as ID checks can occur despite both countries being in Schengen, and note that Sweden uses its own Swedish krona.
What can I do during the dark winter months?
Winter is the time for museums, cafés, and saunas. Tivoli opens for Christmas with lights and Danish gløgg (mulled wine), the harbour sauna in Refshaleøen operates year-round, and galleries like SMK and Designmuseum Denmark offer long, cozy shelter.