If you’re planning a trip to Denmark’s capital, these Copenhagen travel tips will help you make the most of your visit. Known for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, Copenhagen offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re strolling along the colorful Nyhavn, biking through historic streets, or indulging in world-renowned Danish cuisine, these tips will ensure a smooth and memorable experience. Read on for our 12 essential tips that every visitor should know before arriving in this beautiful city.
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1. Get the Copenhagen Card
One of the best Copenhagen travel tips for visitors is to purchase the Copenhagen Card. This card not only grants access to nearly 80 attractions but also includes public transportation. It’s a great value for anyone looking to explore the city’s most popular sights. You can visit places like Tivoli Gardens, The National Museum, and Rosenborg Castle without having to worry about purchasing separate tickets.
Additionally, the Copenhagen Card helps streamline your trip by giving you unlimited access to the city’s metro, buses, and trains. If you’re planning to move between districts or take day trips to surrounding areas like Roskilde or Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, this card will save you both time and money. It’s available for different durations, from 24 hours to 120 hours, allowing you flexibility depending on the length of your stay.
Find out more information on the Copenhagen Card here.
2. Bring an Umbrella or Raincoat
Among the most practical Copenhagen travel tips is to always carry a rain jacket or umbrella. The weather in Denmark can be unpredictable, and it’s easy to get caught in sudden showers, even on sunny days. Having a light, packable raincoat or travel umbrella will keep you dry without taking up much space in your day bag.
Many visitors underestimate how quickly the weather can change, even in the summer months. Copenhagen can go from sunny skies to heavy rainfall in minutes, and locals are used to this. While it might be tempting to leave the rain gear at your accommodation, it’s better to be prepared and enjoy your day without interruption, no matter the weather.
3. Eating Out is Expensive
Another essential tip in our list of Copenhagen travel tips is to manage your food expenses. Copenhagen is known for its high dining costs, so if you want to save money, consider staying in a place with kitchen facilities. Grocery stores like Netto and Føtex offer fresh, affordable produce, allowing you to prepare your own meals and snacks during your stay.
That said, don’t shy away from experiencing Copenhagen’s food culture entirely. You can still enjoy budget-friendly street food at places like Reffen, a popular street food market located by the waterfront. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of cuisines at reasonable prices, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Copenhagen without breaking the bank.
We recommend short term apartments such as STAY Nordhavn that include full kitchens in their apartment hotel rooms. We stayed here during our visit and absolutely loved it! You can read up on our full review of STAY Nordhavn here.
4. Rent a Bike
One of the most eco-friendly Copenhagen travel tips is to explore the city by bike. Companies like Lime, Donkey Republic, and Tier offer regular and electric bikes for easy rental. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with the local road rules, as Copenhagen is a very cyclist-friendly city. Many locals use bikes as their main mode of transportation, so you’ll find bike lanes on nearly every street.
Cycling in Copenhagen isn’t just practical, it’s also a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture. The city is flat, making it ideal for cycling, and you’ll often see locals riding to work, school, or cafes. Renting a bike allows you to cover more ground than walking, while also enjoying the scenic routes along the canals and parks, such as Fælledparken or Amager Strandpark.
5. Try a Hotdog
One of the most fun Copenhagen travel tips is to try a classic Danish hotdog. Hotdog carts are scattered throughout the city, and brands like Steff Houlberg and DOP Organic Hotdogs are a must-try for an authentic Danish experience. These hotdogs are typically loaded with pickles, onions, and a variety of sauces, offering a delicious and affordable taste of Danish street food.
Eating a Danish hotdog is more than just a quick snack—it’s a cultural experience. Locals often grab a hotdog during lunch breaks, while shopping, or after a night out. Whether you’re eating it at a stand near Tivoli Gardens or while strolling through Kongens Nytorv, enjoying a Danish hotdog is a quintessential part of the Copenhagen experience that will leave you craving more.
6. No Uber in Denmark
As part of our practical Copenhagen travel tips, it is important to know that Uber no longer operates in Denmark. Instead, you are better to rely on public transport, which is efficient and much more affordable than taxis. The city’s metro, buses, and trains are all reliable, and most routes run frequently, even late at night.
If you do need a ride, traditional taxis are available, but they can be expensive, especially for longer distances. Public transport is not only cheaper but also eco-friendly, aligning with Copenhagen’s focus on sustainability. Make sure to download a transport app like DOT Mobilbilletter to purchase tickets and plan routes easily.
Get a transit card to cap daily transport expenses, or get the Copenhagen Card that includes unlimited public transport.
7. Book Regional Trains & Buses in Advance
For those planning day trips outside the city, one of the most useful Copenhagen travel tips is to book train and bus tickets in advance. This can save you money and ensure you have a smooth journey to nearby destinations like Malmö or other Danish cities. Booking early can secure you discounted fares, especially for journeys across the Øresund Bridge to Sweden.
In addition to savings, booking in advance also guarantees your seat, particularly during busy travel periods. Denmark’s rail system is known for its punctuality and comfort, so whether you’re heading to the coast or inland, this is a great way to explore more of Denmark without the stress of last-minute planning.
8. Check Out Copenpay
One of the newer items in this list of Copenhagen travel tips is to take advantage of the Copenpay tourist scheme if possible. The Copenpay project was piloted in the summer of 2024, and is currently under review for its effectiveness. This initiative rewards tourists with discounts for responsible behavior, making it a win-win for visitors and locals alike. You can earn points for activities like using public transport, renting bikes, or visiting eco-friendly attractions.
Not only does Copenpay offer perks like discounts at restaurants or attractions, but it also encourages sustainable tourism practices. As Copenhagen is known for being one of the greenest cities in the world, using Copenpay helps support the local community and keep the city environmentally friendly while rewarding you for doing so.
It’s likely to return in 2025, so keep an eye out for it. You can learn more about it here.
9. Explore Copenhagen by Boat
One of the best Copenhagen travel tips is to experience the city from the water. The city’s canals offer stunning views of Nyhavn, the colorful and iconic waterfront, as well as the Opera House, Royal Danish Playhouse, and Amalienborg Palace. A canal tour will take you through hidden waterways and under charming bridges, providing a relaxing and scenic way to appreciate the city’s architectural beauty from a different angle. Whether you opt for a guided boat tour or rent a GoBoat to navigate on your own, the water-based experience offers a fresh perspective on Copenhagen’s vibrant maritime history.
Many boat tours leave from the ever-popular Nyhavn harbor, making it easy to combine a canal ride with exploring the nearby restaurants, bars, and shops. For those who prefer a more independent adventure, GoBoat rentals allow you to captain your own small electric boat and set your own route through the canals, even stopping for a picnic on the water. This is a fantastic option for groups or families looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Copenhagen at their own pace.
10. Book Tivoli Tickets Ahead Of Time
One of the most popular Copenhagen travel tips is to book your Tivoli Gardens tickets in advance. As one of the city’s top attractions, Tivoli Gardens can get busy, especially during the summer and around Christmas when it hosts festive markets. Booking tickets online not only saves you time but can also help you save money through discounts or bundled offers. Plus, you’ll avoid the long queues at the entrance, giving you more time to enjoy the park’s beautiful gardens, rides, and performances.
Tivoli Gardens is more than just an amusement park—it’s a piece of Copenhagen’s history, dating back to 1843. From its iconic wooden rollercoaster to its peaceful lakeside paths, Tivoli offers something for everyone. If you’re visiting during the evening, the park lights up beautifully, and you can even catch a concert or a light show. By purchasing tickets ahead of time, you’ll also have access to deals that include food or ride packages, making the experience both affordable and hassle-free.
Book your tickets through Klook to get a discounted price compared to the official website. We booked our tickets through Klook and had no problems—just show them the voucher at the gate, and you’re in. It’s an easy, hassle-free option that lets you skip the lines and enjoy everything Tivoli has to offer.
Check out tickets and availability through Klook here. You just need to purchase your tickets at least one day in advance.
11. Visit Copenhagen’s Free Attractions
Another valuable Copenhagen travel tip is to take advantage of the city’s many free attractions. While some of Copenhagen’s top sites require tickets, there are numerous parks, landmarks, and experiences that are completely free of charge. The Little Mermaid statue, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, is located along the waterfront and is free to visit year-round. You can also stroll through the Kongens Have (King’s Garden) or the Botanical Garden for a relaxing day out surrounded by nature.
For those interested in architecture and history, many of Copenhagen’s churches and squares are free to enter and explore. Christiansborg Palace, for example, offers free access to its tower, which provides one of the best panoramic views of the city. Taking a walk through the colorful neighborhood of Nyhavn or exploring the lively Strøget shopping street is another great way to soak up the atmosphere of the city without spending a dime.
12. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
A key Copenhagen travel tip for eco-conscious travelers is to bring a reusable water bottle. Denmark is known for having some of the cleanest tap water in the world, and the quality in Copenhagen is excellent. Instead of spending money on bottled water, you can easily refill your bottle at taps, public fountains, or even cafes around the city. It’s a simple way to save money, reduce plastic waste, and stay hydrated during your exploration of Copenhagen’s many sights. Bottled water can be expensive in Denmark, so grab a refillable bottle to save your krone.
Not only is this tip environmentally friendly, but it’s also convenient, especially if you plan on doing a lot of walking or biking. Water fountains are readily available in public parks like Kongens Have or Frederiksberg Gardens, and you’ll often find refill stations at attractions like Tivoli Gardens or museums. By carrying a reusable water bottle, you can stay refreshed without the hassle of constantly buying single-use plastic bottles, which aligns perfectly with Copenhagen’s green initiatives and commitment to sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Copenhagen?
The best time to visit Copenhagen is in spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, Christmas markets in December are magical if you don’t mind the colder weather!
How many days do I need to visit Copenhagen?
For a thorough experience, 3 to 4 days is ideal to cover the main attractions, enjoy the local food scene, and take in the city’s unique atmosphere.
You can cover most of the main sights and attractions in 1-2 days if you are short on time or only visiting for a weekend.
How do I get around Copenhagen?
Copenhagen has an excellent public transportation network that includes buses, metro, and trains. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to explore the city, renting a bike is highly recommended. For convenience, grab a Copenhagen Card, which covers both transport and entrance to top attractions.
Is Copenhagen expensive to visit?
Yes, Copenhagen can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to dining and accommodation. Budget-conscious travelers should look for hostels, Airbnbs with kitchens, and take advantage of free city parks, walking tours, and affordable street food (like hotdogs!).
What are the must-visit attractions in Copenhagen?
Top attractions include Tivoli Gardens, the Nyhavn waterfront, the Little Mermaid statue, and the impressive Rosenborg Castle. Art lovers should check out the National Gallery of Denmark (SMK), while history buffs will enjoy the Viking Ship Museum in nearby Roskilde.
Do people in Copenhagen speak English?
Yes, the vast majority of people in Copenhagen speak excellent English, so language won’t be an issue for most tourists.
Is Copenhagen a walkable city?
Absolutely! Copenhagen is compact, and its pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot. Walking from one attraction to another is often scenic and enjoyable, especially around Nyhavn and Strøget, Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street.
What local food should I try in Copenhagen?
Aside from the classic Danish hotdogs, be sure to try smørrebrød, an open-faced sandwich piled high with ingredients like herring, shrimp, or roast beef. For a sweet treat, try a Danish pastry like kanelsnegle (cinnamon roll) or wienerbrød. For something more refined, Copenhagen also boasts Michelin-starred restaurants like Noma.
Is tipping expected in Copenhagen?
Tipping is not expected in Copenhagen, as a service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants. However, if you receive exceptional service, rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.
