3 days in Copenhagen, the perfect itinerary to explore the city at your leisure
3 days in Copenhagen? It’s the perfect amount of time to fall in love with this sublime city. Copenhagen has it all. Pretty buildings, tasty food, an infectious vibe and loads of bikes zooming around.
From cosy bakeries and calm canals to fun museums and friendly parks, Copenhagen is a great place to explore. Whether you love history, design or just a relaxed vibe, this city has something for everyone.
Our perfect itinerary for 3 days in Copenhagen is just what you need. Read on to find out how to spend a lovely long weekend in Denmark’s dynamic capital.
Day 1: Copenhagen’s historic centre
On your first day, we recommend you take a walk through the old town, checking out all the city’s main points of interest. Start with a stroll along Copenhagen’s pretty cobbled streets, hitting key landmarks as you go. Pop into a local cafe for a quick snack and chat with friendly locals.
Nyhavn, the old harbour of the Danish capital
Do not miss Nyhavn – the 17th-century harbour that is the heart of Copenhagen. Those bright, candy-coloured townhouses have stood here for centuries.
Today, the waterfront is lined with charming, brightly painted townhouses, which were once used as warehouses and now host trendy cafés, bars, and restaurants.
- Pro Tip: Arrive by 09:00 to beat the crowds and score some golden-hour shots.
- Do This: Enjoy a tasty smørrebrød at Cap Horn (house #21) or relax with a coffee by the water.
Amalienborg, the royal palace in rococo style
Just a 10-minute walk from Nyhavn, Amalienborg is the winter home of Denmark’s royal family. The Amalienborg complex consists of four palaces, built around an octagonal courtyard.
- Must-See: Watch the Changing of the Guard, which takes place at noon, come rain or shine – it’s like a mini parade!
- Inside Scoop: Pop into the Amalienborg Museum (Palace #4) to check out royal jewels and some quirky historical stories.
- Opening Hours & Price: Open from 10:00 to 15:00 Tuesday to Friday and weekends from 10:00 to 16:00, with tickets costing about 125 DKK (€16.76) for adults.
Kastellet, the fortified citadel
Next, wander over to Kastellet, one of Europe’s best-preserved star-shaped fortresses. It’s a quiet, free space that feels miles away from the busy city centre.
Do you know that one of the most iconic features of Kastellet is its windmill? It dates all the way back to the 1840s. The windmill was used to grind grain for the soldiers stationed at Kastellet and was in use until 1903.
- Don’t Miss: Explore the Kastelsmøllen windmill and the charming St. Alban’s Church.
- Local Hack: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on the grassy ramparts with a view.
The Little Mermaid, symbol of the city
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without visiting Den Lille Havfrue. Though she’s small and often busy, she remains one of the city’s most famous sights.
It was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale about a mermaid who gives up everything to be united with a young, handsome prince on land.
- Hack: Visit at sunrise or sunset to catch softer light and fewer people around.
Fun Fact: The statue has a colourful past – she’s been painted, modified, and even become a protest symbol!
Rosenborg Castle, a beautiful piece of Danish architecture
End your day at Rosenborg Castle, a fairytale palace built by King Christian IV in 1606. Inside, you’ll find dazzling Crown Jewels and other royal treasures.
- Pro Move: After touring the castle, take a stroll in the King’s Garden (Kongens Have) where locals relax and play chess.
Opening Hours & Price: Open from 10:00 to 16:00 most days, with tickets costing about 140 DKK (€18.20) for adults.
Day 2: Art, culture and nature
After an awesome Day 1 exploring the old charm of Copenhagen, Day 2 is all about art, culture, and nature. Today, you’ll wander through cool museums, check out grand palaces, and even climb a round tower—all while soaking in the creative and amazing vibe that makes this city so unique. Let day 2 of your 3 days in Copenhagen begin!
Danish National Museum
Start your second day off by stepping into Denmark’s past at the Danish National Museum, where you can explore everything from ancient artifacts to modern stories. The museum showcases everything from Viking treasures to the Egtved girl’s grave to Egyptian mummies and Renaissance art.
- Fun Fact: The museum houses unique Viking treasures that tell exciting tales of old Denmark.
- Opening Hours: Typically open from 10:00 to 17:00 (check opening times online in case of seasonal changes).
- Pro Tip: Entry is free, so take your time and enjoy every exhibit without spending a penny!
Hack: Join a free guided tour for extra insights and behind-the-scenes stories.
Christiansborg Palace, the seat of Parliament
Continue your culture hit with a visit to Christiansborg Palace, the hub of Danish political life and a real treasure trove of history. It is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.
- Fun Fact: Parts of Christiansborg are still used by the Danish government today.
- Opening Hours: Generally open from 10:00 to 17:00 —perfect for a mid-morning visit. Check their opening times online.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the tower, which offers amazing panoramic views of the city.
- Do This: Explore the royal reception rooms and discover the historic ruins hidden inside.
Hack: Take advantage of the free areas to get a glimpse of this iconic building without having to pay for a ticket!
Rundetårn, the round tower
Time for a bit of post-lunch exercise with a climb up the gentle, spiral ramp of Rundetårn for a brilliant view at the top. Rundetårn is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe.
- Fun Fact: Built in the 17th century, Rundetårn originally served as an astronomical observatory!
- Opening Hours: Open from 10:00, and in the summer you can visit until 20:00.
- Pro Tip: The climb is easy and fun – no stairs here, just a smooth, winding ramp.
- Do This: Snap a few photos at the top to capture the stunning panorama of Copenhagen.
- Hack: Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter, more peaceful ascent.
Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s world-famous amusement park
End your second day at Tivoli Gardens, where magic and history come together in one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Some of the best rides are Rutschebanen – a classic wooden roller coaster, the 80-metre-high Star Flyer, a giant version of the typical fairground ‘chair-o-plane’ ride, and The Demon, a modern-style roller coaster with a 360-degree inversion.
- Fun Fact: Opened in 1843, Tivoli Gardens are said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s vision for Disneyland!
- Opening Hours: Usually opens around 11:00 and can run until midnight, especially in the summer.
- Pro Tip: Arrive in the evening when the park lights up to enjoy a truly enchanting atmosphere.
- Do This: Enjoy the rides, live music, and a variety of delicious treats scattered around the park.
Hack: Grab a quick bite at one of the food stalls to keep your energy up for more fun.
Day 3: Modern Copenhagen
After a fun-filled Day 2, Day 3 brings you a taste of modern Copenhagen—where creativity meets sustainability and the spirit of innovation is everywhere. Today, do something a bit different! Explore a self-run community, marvel at striking modern architecture, and even try a bit of urban adventure. Let’s dive in!
Freetown Christiania, the self-run neighbourhood
Morning is a great time to head to Freetown Christiania, a unique, free-spirited area known for its colourful street art and laid-back vibe, a community where locals run the neighbourhood collectively, fostering a vibrant and independent atmosphere.
- Fun Fact: Founded in 1971, Christiania has grown into an autonomous community that runs on creativity and community spirit.
- Opening Hours: This neighbourhood is open around the clock.
- Pro Tip: Wander through the vibrant lanes and soak up the creative energy, but remember to respect local rules—especially the no-photo zones.
- Do This: Explore the murals, quirky shops, and relaxed cafés that make Christiania a one-of-a-kind experience.
Hack: Join a local guided tour to learn the fascinating history and hidden stories behind this self-run area.
Operaen, the Opera House
Next, head over to Operaen, Copenhagen’s stunning modern opera house that stands proudly on the waterfront.
- Fun Fact: Its cutting-edge design isn’t just for show—it’s an architectural marvel that offers amazing views of the harbour.
- Opening Hours: Check the performance schedule or tour timings, as guided tours are available during specific hours.
- Pro Tip: Take a guided tour to get the full scoop on the building’s design and history.
- Do This: Walk around the sleek structure and enjoy the views, even if you’re not catching a performance.
CopenHill, the waste incinerator turned tourist attraction
And finally, to bring your 3 days in Copenhagen to an adrenaline-filled end, discover CopenHill, a waste-to-energy plant that doubles as a recreational facility, featuring a ski slope and climbing wall. Designed as a sustainable space, it incinerates 440,000 tonnes of waste annually, transforming it into clean energy that powers homes and supplies district heating.
Fun Fact: CopenHill not only turns waste into energy but also features a ski slope, hiking trail, and even a climbing wall on its roof!
- Opening Hours: Typically open during the day; check the local schedule for exact times.
- Pro Tip: Rent skis or simply enjoy the hiking trail for a unique way to see the city from above.
- Do This: Try out the climbing wall or relax at the rooftop bar to take in the panoramic views of Copenhagen.
Hack: Visit on a clear day to capture the best views and fully enjoy this quirky attraction.
3 days in Copenhagen: useful tips
Before you dive into planning your 3 days in Copenhagen, here are some handy and unique tips to help you explore like a local. These insider tricks go beyond the usual advice and will let you enjoy every cool corner of the city.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Make your exploration easy and flexible by booking a hop on hop off pass. It’s a brilliant way to see all the highlights at your own pace. Check out the details of the best Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Copenhagen.
- Plan Around Local Events: Keep an eye out for pop-up festivals, art shows, or special events during your stay. These local events are a great way to experience Copenhagen’s creative energy.
- Explore Hidden Gems: Don’t just stick to the main attractions—wander into the lesser-known alleys, quirky cafés, and charming parks to uncover the city’s secret spots.
- Book Ahead: For popular tours or attractions, booking in advance can save you from long waits and ensure you don’t miss out on must-see experiences.
- Hidden Food Gems: Skip the usual spots and try some local food trucks and pop-up markets for fresh, authentic Danish treats that most tourists miss.
- Secret Urban Oases: Look out for the tucked-away urban gardens and peaceful parks scattered around the city—perfect for a quiet break or a spontaneous picnic.
- Join a Local Walking Tour: Look for tours that focus on Copenhagen’s sustainable design and green projects—these insights offer a fresh perspective on how the city is evolving.
That’s a wrap on an amazing 3 days in Copenhagen!
And just like that, your fun-filled 3 days in Copenhagen come to an end! From walking through pretty streets and enjoying delicious food to climbing towers and even skiing on a rooftop, this city is full of surprises.
Whether you love history, cool architecture, or just relaxing by the water, Copenhagen has something for everyone. So hop on a sightseeing bus, enjoy the views, and make the most of every moment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the cobbled streets, a light jacket (even in summer—the weather can be a bit unpredictable), and don’t forget a small umbrella for those sudden showers. Also, pack a reusable water bottle and a camera or smartphone for capturing the city’s charm.
Step off the beaten track and explore hidden gems like the quirky Cisterns in Søndermarken—an atmospheric underground art space—and the trendy districts of Nørrebro and Vesterbro, where you’ll find cool cafés, vintage shops, and vibrant street art. Freetown Christiania also offers a unique insight into an alternative lifestyle that you won’t see in the mainstream tourist spots.
Absolutely! Consider a day trip to Roskilde to visit the fascinating Viking Ship Museum and the stunning Roskilde Cathedral, both just a short train ride away. You can also explore Helsingør to see Kronborg Castle—famed as Hamlet’s castle—a perfect blend of history and scenic beauty.
The ideal time to visit is from May to September. During these months, the weather is warmer, and the city buzzes with outdoor festivals, open-air markets, and plenty of sunny days to enjoy Copenhagen’s parks and canals.