Copenhagen is a giant cozy sweater, a hug you didn’t know you needed, and a breath of fresh air all wrapped into one city. I know, it’s a lot to imagine, but so much of it comes down to the Danish phrase “hygge,” which extends to every corner of this wonderful city. Now, what exactly does hygge mean? This way of life prioritizes coziness and intentionality, highlighting the simplicities of life. All I know is that after visiting this wonderful city, I can confidently say the Danish are doing, well, everything right.
Copenhagen is one of the ultimate destinations for city girls. It’s unique since it’s a busy city that also leaves you feeling refreshed and inspired by the end of your trip. After all, it is the happiest place on Earth. For the traveler looking for culture, cozy cafés, and cool Scandi style, this guide has everything you need: what to do, what to eat, and where to shop in Copenhagen.
What To-Do & See
Nyhavn
Nyhavn is the postcard-perfect harbor of the city that might have made you Copenhagen-curious in the first place. The 17th-century townhouses that perch against the water are straight out of a storybook, and will make you fall head over heels in love with the whimsy and simplicity of Copenhagen. Grab a coffee (or glass of wine) and explore the waterfront cafés and live music that makes Nyhavn so special.
Tivoli Gardens
Rumor has it that Tivoli Gardens was one of the muses for Disneyland, and that alone is a good enough reason to visit this amusement park smack dab in the middle of the city. Tivoli Gardens is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, and its vintage carousels, lanterns, and lush gardens will give a touch of magic to your Copenhagen trip. Whether you’re here for the rides or just for the food, Tivoli Gardens is a must-do attraction for your trip.
Nyhavn Canal Cruise
The water is Copenhagen’s most enchanting angle, and a canal cruise offers a scenic glimpse into some of the city’s best architecture and landmarks. A great place to book your canal cruise is through Tripadvisor, which has endless options for you to choose from. Hop aboard and get ready to fall head over heels in love with this waterfront city.
Rosenborg Castle & The King’s Garden
Rosenborg Castle is a beautiful Renaissance castle that gives visitors a glimpse into old-world Denmark. Take a tour of the castle to see the royal crown jewels, royal art, and manicured gardens. Stroll through The King’s Garden after your visit for a peaceful escape right in the city center.
The Little Mermaid Statue
The Little Mermaid statue is one of Copenhagen’s biggest attractions, which is funny because it’s actually very small in size. Regardless, this statue draws in tourists for its ties to the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, which then inspired the Disney movie.
While I don’t think a dedicated trip out to the statue is worth it, I recommend booking a river cruise through the city that lists The Little Mermaid statue as one of its stops.
Freetown Christiania
Freetown Christiania is completely different from the rest of Copenhagen’s sleek and charming atmosphere. This neighborhood is labeled as an alternative community defined by its countercultural spirit. It is controversial and a bit strange, but you’ll want to pay a visit if bold expressions of freedom and eccentricity are up your alley.
Design Museum Denmark
No visit to Copenhagen is complete without exploring its design culture. I left so, so inspired by the city’s Scandinavian style that embraces minimalism, coziness, and functionality. The Design Museum Denmark is the perfect place to get an in-depth lesson on just how excellent the Danes pull off design.
Where to Eat
Skt. Peders Bageri
As Copenhagen’s oldest bakery, Skt. Peders Bageri is a piece of pastry history. Go early for their famous onsdagssnegle, which are sweet, sticky perfection that’s worth setting an alarm for.
(*sigh* sorry I’m just over here drooling, thinking about it again… obsessed.)
Poulette
Poulette serves up some of the best fried chicken sandwiches in Copenhagen. Granted, fried chicken sandwiches are not what one might think when it comes to Danish cuisine, but oh my— it’s worth a trip.
Buka Bakery
From cardamom buns to crusty loaves, Buka Bakery is a must-stop for anyone looking to try all of Copenhagen’s best pastry.
Delphine Restaurant
Delphine brings Mediterranean vibes to Copenhagen’s Nordic chill. With its bright, airy interiors and coastal-inspired dishes, Delphine is the perfect destination for a brunch or dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied in a fresh and feel-good kind of way.
Apollo Bar
Apollo Bar is the definition of Copenhagen cool. This is a café-meets-wine-bar that draws in locals to its cozy courtyard setting, which makes you want to gossip over a glass of wine.
Mad & Kaffe
Mad & Kaffe is known for its build-your-own breakfast concept, which is unique to anything else I’ve tried. Come for the hype that’s all over TikTok and stay for the long, lazy brunch that you’ll want to recreate the very next day.
Where to Shop
Jægersborggade Street
Jægersborggade Street is the mecca of Copenhagen’s shopping scene. Down this stretch of retail heaven, you’ll find independent boutiques, vintage shops, and local artisans. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing fashion, ceramics, and Scandinavian minimalism at its best.
Norr
At Norr, you’ll find a curated mix of timeless staples and trendy pieces that encapsulate Copenhagen style. Think clean silhouettes and neutral tones that will make your suitcase jam-packed with fantastic finds.
Studio Arhoj
Studio Arhoj is pure joy in ceramic form. You can lose track of time browsing this whimsical shop known for its one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces (think mugs, figurines, and original art pieces) that are silly, colorful, and full of playful personality.
HAY House
HAY House is a real-life Pinterest board come to life, which is my personal interpretation of heaven. HAY is iconic and embodies everything that makes Danish design so coveted. Even if you can’t fit a coffee table in your carry-on, it’s the sleek and authentic displays throughout the store that make this a quintessential shopping visit.
Ganni POSTMODERN
Ganni is one of Denmark’s most iconic fashion brands, making Ganni POSTMODERN an instant classic in the city. This is technically GANNI’s outlet store, although the prices are still pretty high. In any case, this is the ultimate stop for scoring a little piece of Copenhagen cool to take home.
