3 Days of History, Culture and Food in Copenhagen

Start the morning off at Skt. Peders Bageri, one of Copenhagen’s oldest bakeries.

Then, enjoy a guided tour to learn about the history of the city. You’ll see sights like the famous Little Mermaid Statue, Amalienborg Palace and the picturesque harbor of Nyhavn. A guided tour is the perfect two-hour introduction.

After the tour, it’s time for lunch in Indre By, which is the center of Copenhagen. If you’re still in the mood for pastries, try BUKA. Or if you’d like to try more traditional Danish food, Palae Bar is also in the neighborhood.

After lunch, cross the bridge from Nyhavn to Christianshavn to head to Freetown Christiana, an abandoned military base that was taken over by squatters in the 1970s and has been a semi-autonomous commune since. Walk around the shops and see the unique street art and way of life that transports you away from a bustling capital city.

For dinner, head to Barr, a casual but sophisticated Northern European restaurant, located on the Copenhagen waterfront in the original NOMA space. Get the Schnizel — you won’t regret it.

Today, get energized for the day with award-winning coffee at Coffee Collective. While there are multiple locations throughout the city, head to Toverhallerne, a market hall that’s loved by both tourists and locals. While you’re there, check out the local stands for fresh produce and local restaurants. For breakfast, GROD’s porridge and bowls are unique and healthy options.

Next, you’re heading to the Rundetaarn, or Round Tower. Walk the round spiral pathway (5–10 minutes) to the top to get a spectacular view of the city. Then, head to Studio Arhoj a Danish ceramics and glass studio known for their whimsical and fun designs that make great souvenirs! Plus, you can see the artists at work in the back of the store! Right around the corner, head to the D.O.P. cart to try a Danish hot dog.

For the rest of the day, you’re exploring Norrebro. Cross the Dronning Louises Bridge and explore the vintage and second-hand shops along Norrebrogade. Then head to Assistens Cemetery to see the grave of the famous Danish author, Hans Christian Andersen, who wrote classics like The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling and more. While the grave is quite modest, the cemetery is located within a larger park that is quite lovely to walk around. Exit the park towards Jægersborggade for some more local shopping.

Dinner tonight is at Baest, which is ranked as not only having some of the best pizza in Copenhagen, but also in the world. For a pre-dinner drink, head to BRUS right next door, a brewery and bar with a wide selection of craft beers. If you still have energy after dinner, head to Pulp Bar for a nightcap. It’s quiet and casual, but their unique cocktail menu is organized by “horror, romance, adventure and the future”, and is a great way to wind down after a busy day.

Start your final day in Copenhagen with more coffee and pastries at Andersen & Maillard before heading to Rosenborg Castle. The castle offers a great glimpse into the life of Danish royalty during the Renaissance, but the highlight is the Crown Jewels, which are both on display and worn by the Danish Royal family today. After your visit, walk around the beautiful King’s Garden right outside.

For lunch, walk about 10 minutes to Aamans Deli & Takeaway in Osterbro to try a delicious and modern take on the traditional Danish smorrebrod, or open-faced sandwiches.

This evening, head to the meatpacking district, Kødbyen, and have a pre-dinner drink with the locals. Warpigs is a great option operated by the famous Danish Mikkeller brewery for beer lovers, but there’s an abundance of places to eat and go out in this hip neighborhood. For dinner, try the nearby outpost of Hija de Sanchez Taqueria from famed ex-NOMA chef Rosio Sanchez — who recently made a cameo in season three of “The Bear”.

To finish out your trip to Copenhagen, spend your last evening at Tivoli Gardens. The famous amusement park has a unique ambiance and charm that’s worth going to even if you’re not interested in rides. Nighttime is truly the best time to see the park, especially to see the attached Nimb hotel lit up at night or to catch a local Danish show at their Summer concert series.