How to Reach Copenhagen
Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is Scandinavia's largest hub with excellent European and intercontinental connections. The Metro runs directly from the airport to the city center in 15 minutes.
Rent a bike on day one — Copenhagen has over 390km of dedicated cycle lanes and cycling is genuinely the fastest and most enjoyable way to see the city.
Top Things to See & Do
1. Nyhavn
The 17th-century canal lined with colorful merchant houses is Copenhagen's most iconic image. The waterfront fills with restaurants and bars in summer — find a spot on the quayside with a cold beer and watch the boats pass.
2. Tivoli Gardens
The world's second oldest amusement park (1843) in the heart of the city — beautiful gardens, excellent restaurants, and fairground rides in an atmosphere of pure enchantment. At night the lights are magical.
3. The National Museum
Denmark's largest museum traces Scandinavian history from the Stone Age through the Viking Age. The Viking exhibition is exceptional.
4. Freetown Christiania
The self-governing commune established in 1971 on a former military base — car-free streets, colorful self-built houses, art studios, and music venues operating entirely outside conventional Danish society.
5. Louisiana Museum
40km north of Copenhagen, the Louisiana is one of Europe's finest modern art museums — pavilions in a clifftop sculpture park above the Øresund strait with breathtaking views.
What to Eat in Copenhagen
- Smørrebrød — open-faced rye bread sandwiches topped with herring, roast beef, or egg
- Danish pastry — the real thing bears no resemblance to airport imitations
- New Nordic cuisine — Copenhagen spawned the New Nordic movement; dining here is exceptional at every level
- Carlsberg or Tuborg — Denmark's great brewing heritage enjoyed at any canal-side bar
Best Time to Visit
June to August is warm and when Copenhagen is at its outdoor best. Christmas transforms the city with markets and hygge atmosphere.
