Copenhagen is an iconic northern European city with plenty of iconic sights – my Copenhagen travel tips can help make the most out of this beloved northern European metropolis!
Start your morning at Sankt Peder's bakery for an onsdagssnegl (Danish for cinnamon roll), before heading on a canal tour to see iconic sights such as Tivoli Gardens and Little Mermaid statue.
Tivoli
Tivoli Gardens was opened in 1843 and is one of Copenhagen's must-see amusement parks close to a great area to stay in Copenhagen. You'll quickly understand why famed fairy-tale author Hans Christian Andersen and Walt Disney fell for it! Tivoli boasts a magical universe inspired by various cultures with stunning architecture that blends different styles. Perfect for both thrill-seekers and those just wanting a relaxing stroll, Tivoli is truly an enjoyable experience for both.
Tivoli Park comes alive at nightfall when its fairy lights illuminate and the clock tower of Radhus soars into the moonlight like something out of a Disney film. At that moment, the park transforms into a dreamlike world of amusement rides, twinkling pavilions, carnival games and spectacular performance areas for concerts, plays and other events – changing with each season as Christmas turns to Halloween to Friday rock on Plaenen stage during summer nights.
Interspersed between attractions, shops and restaurants are whimsical alleyways with bright signs and whimsical details that draw your eye when walking by. Not to forget the gorgeous pools with water fountains and flower-lined bridges for that picture-perfect setting!
Nyhavn
No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without taking a stroll along Nyhavn, an 18th century waterfront and entertainment district replete with colorful townhouses, bars, and restaurants that has long been a focal point. Today this picturesque quay remains bustling with locals as well as visitors alike.
Photographer Celine Hallas lives with her family – husband Daniel, children Samuel (15) and Sienna (11) along with beloved dog Yoda – in an apartment overlooking a canal, exploring its streets and enjoying its atmosphere for years now. We asked them for their best Nyhavn tips.
Just south of Kongens Nytorv and Amalienborg Palace is the Old Port, an instantly recognisable area characterized by canal-side houses. Often featured as a backdrop for city postcards and culturally significant, its rich history includes ships docking from all around the world as well as pubs, alehouses and other entertaining establishments catering to sailors and their crews.
It has a well-earned reputation as one of the city's romantic spots, featuring an iconic statue like that of Little Mermaid – making this place beloved among both locals and visitors alike. Here, visitors and locals alike can sit back, sip wine or beer and people watch while sipping some refreshment from one of its numerous outdoor tables or benches.
Canal Tour
The Canal Tour of Copenhagen is an increasingly popular choice among visitors looking to see some of its iconic landmarks by water. While enjoying scenic views while sipping drinks or munching on something tasty.
From relaxing cruises to Danish hygge-filled experiences, boat tours offer one of the best ways to discover Copenhagen. These tours run year-round and give an overview of its landscape.
Nyhavn, Copenhagen's iconic photo spot with colorful houses and Christiansborg Palace, and Christianshavn with its low pedestrian bridges (beware!). Our tours depart from Ofelia Plads or Kvaesthus Pier in the center of town for maximum sightseeing potential.
Choose the canal tour that meets both your preferences and budget needs. Consider whether a guided tour with a narrator or self-guided option are better, as well as which kind of boat would best suit you – be it traditional schooners, GoBoats or floating hot tubs?
If you need some guidance when selecting your tour, read reviews on TripAdvisor to gain some perspective on their experiences. Some classic canal tours may even be included with the Copenhagen Card; make sure this is clear before purchasing tickets!
Smorrebrod
Smorrebrod (open-face sandwiches of many varieties) is one of the Danish's favorite culinary traditions, beloved and appreciated across generations. While its variations range from simple to elaborate, all share Scandinavian sensibilities by providing local foods in attractive presentations with minimal waste. Garnishes such as microgreens, chives and garden cress add freshness while sauces like mayonnaise or remoulade add depth of flavor.
Original versions of smorrebrod (rye bread) were used as plates to stack combinations of open-face sandwiches, often consisting of the day's leftovers. Over time, Danish people have elevated it to an art form – often offering intricate creations best enjoyed using knives and forks rather than fingers and with elaborate designs meant to look more like edible art than simply sandwiches.
Ida Davidsen on Refshaleoen is perhaps Denmark's best-known smorrebrod restaurant. Family owned for five generations, its fame has led Danish royalty and celebrities alike to name their own smorrebrods here! While not exactly affordable – starting at 425 DKK per menu of two smorrebrod, one beer and coffee – its menu has something for every taste ranging from traditional options with goat's cheese, pickled pear and walnut to smoked salmon sandwiches featuring tomato, cucumber and lime mayonnaise for something truly delectable!
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