1-Day Copenhagen Adventure: Nightlife & Hidden Gems with Friends

Copenhagen, Denmark

1 days

Circle Bridge
Schloss Rosenborg
Portland Towers in Nordhavn district
Square in front of Amalienborg Palace
The Royal Danish Opera

About Copenhagen, Denmark

Discover the charm of Copenhagen, Denmark's vibrant capital city. This Scandinavian gem is a blend of modern design and historic tradition, with colorful waterfronts, grand palaces, and cobbled squares. Explore the iconic Little Mermaid statue, the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, and the 17th-century Nyhavn harbor. Visit the impressive Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family, or immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of Denmark. Copenhagen is also a culinary hotspot, boasting 15 Michelin-starred restaurants, including the world-renowned Noma. The city is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with many locals commuting by bike. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or design enthusiast, Copenhagen offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Copenhagen

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Nørrebro. This area is known for its hipster vibe and is filled with unique boutiques, trendy coffee shops, and colorful street art. Take a leisurely stroll along the lakes and enjoy the beautiful views. Don't forget to check out the Assistens Cemetery, which is not only a resting place for famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen, but also a popular park for locals.

Lunch

After exploring Nørrebro, head to the Meatpacking District for lunch. This area is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of eateries offering everything from traditional Danish cuisine to international delicacies. Enjoy your meal in one of the converted warehouses, which add a unique charm to the dining experience.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon in Christiania, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood known for its alternative lifestyle and vibrant street art. Explore the area on foot or rent a bike to cover more ground. Don't miss the chance to visit the local artisan shops and galleries, where you can find unique souvenirs.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the trendy district of Vesterbro. This area is known for its diverse food scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from Danish smørrebrød to gourmet burgers. Enjoy your meal in a cozy restaurant or opt for a street food market if you prefer a more casual setting.

Evening

End your day with a night out in the lively district of Kødbyen. This area is the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues. Whether you prefer a quiet pub, a trendy cocktail bar, or a lively club, you'll find it here. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and dance the night away.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Assistens Cemetery

1
Assistens Cemetery

Famous for being the burial site of notable Danish figures such as Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
Meatpacking District

2
Meatpacking District

A trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic restaurants, and unique shops.

Neighborhoods
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Shopping
Vesterbro

3
Vesterbro

A hip neighborhood known for its nightlife, restaurants, and indie shopping scene.

Neighborhoods
Kødbyen

4
Kødbyen

Copenhagen's Meatpacking District, home to trendy restaurants, bars, and galleries.

Neighborhoods
Food and Drink
Entertainment
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Smørrebrød

Smørrebrød

A traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, typically made with rye bread and various toppings like cold cuts, fish, cheese, and spreads. It's a staple food in Copenhagen.

Frikadeller

Frikadeller

Danish meatballs made from minced meat, onions, eggs, milk, and bread crumbs. They are a popular dinner dish in Copenhagen.

Grød

A traditional Danish porridge made from oats or rice. It's a common breakfast food in Copenhagen.

Rød Pølse

A red-colored hot dog that is a popular street food in Copenhagen. It's typically served with bread, ketchup, mustard, remoulade, and crispy fried onions.

Flæskesteg

Flæskesteg

Denmark's national dish, a roast pork with crispy crackling. It's a common dinner dish in Copenhagen, especially during Christmas.

Stegt Flæsk

Stegt Flæsk

Fried pork belly served with potatoes and a parsley sauce. It's a traditional Danish dish often enjoyed for dinner in Copenhagen.

Kartofler

Boiled or roasted potatoes, often served as a side dish with meat in Copenhagen.

Rugbrød

Rugbrød

A dense, dark, and slightly sour rye bread that is a staple in Copenhagen. It's often used as the base for Smørrebrød.

Wienerbrød

Wienerbrød

A Danish pastry, also known as a 'Danish', is a sweet pastry that is a popular treat in Copenhagen.

Akvavit

Akvavit

A traditional Danish spirit made from grain or potatoes and flavoured with herbs. It's often enjoyed during festive occasions in Copenhagen.

Carlsberg

A famous Danish beer brewed in Copenhagen. It's a popular drink among locals and tourists alike.

Glogg

Glogg

A warm, spiced wine drink often enjoyed during the winter months in Copenhagen. It's similar to mulled wine and is typically served with raisins and almonds.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Copenhagen, Denmark is during the late spring and summer months, specifically from May to August. During this period, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is also the time when the city is most vibrant, with numerous outdoor events, festivals, and open-air concerts taking place. The days are also the longest, allowing you to make the most of your sightseeing. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October are also good times to visit, with fewer tourists and mild weather.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

2nd Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Copenhagen is a compact city and most of the popular tourist attractions are within walking distance from the city center. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace and take in the beautiful architecture and scenery.

Copenhagen is known as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. There are plenty of bike rental shops around the city and dedicated bike lanes. It's a fast, eco-friendly, and healthy way to get around.

Copenhagen has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city and suburbs. Buses are frequent and reliable. They are a good option for reaching destinations that are not covered by the metro or train.

The Copenhagen Metro is a convenient way to travel around the city. It operates 24/7 and has four lines that cover most of the city and some suburbs. Stations are well-marked and trains are modern and clean.

The S-train network is a great way to travel longer distances within the city and to the suburbs. It's also the best way to reach destinations like the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and the city of Helsingør.

Taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street, picked up at taxi stands, or booked via phone or app. They offer a convenient, but more expensive, way to get around.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Copenhagen. They offer a convenient way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Copenhagen is a city of canals and a boat tour or a trip on the public water buses is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Some routes even allow you to hop on and off at various tourist attractions.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Copenhagen. However, parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center, and the city's narrow streets and heavy bicycle traffic can make driving challenging.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencykr DKK

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type EPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Copenhagen, Denmark as a first time visitor

1

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and its most populous city.

2

The official language is Danish, but English is widely spoken.

3

The currency used is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Copenhagen is known for its biking culture. It's a great way to get around the city, and bike rentals are readily available.

5

The city is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

6

The weather can be unpredictable. Summers are generally warm with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), while winters can be cold with temperatures from 28°F to 39°F (-2°C to 4°C). Always check the forecast before your trip.

7

Copenhagen has a rich history and is known for its beautiful architecture, including many well-preserved 17th-century buildings.

8

The city is also known for its sustainability efforts and is one of the world's leading green cities.

9

Public transportation is efficient and reliable. The city has a comprehensive network of buses, trains, and metro lines.

10

Tipping is not mandatory in Denmark as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it's common to leave a small tip for good service.

11

Copenhagen has a vibrant food scene. Be sure to try traditional Danish cuisine, such as smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and frikadeller (meatballs).

12

The city is also known for its craft beer scene. Visit one of the many local breweries or beer bars.

13

Copenhagen has a high cost of living, so be prepared for higher prices, especially for dining and accommodation.

14

The city is pedestrian-friendly with many pedestrian streets and squares. It's a great city to explore on foot.

15

Copenhagen has a mix of old and new, with a blend of historic sites and modern design.

16

The city is located on the eastern coast of the island of Zealand, with numerous beaches and harbors.

17

Copenhagen has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

18

The city is also known for its many parks and green spaces, which are perfect for relaxing or having a picnic.

19

Copenhagen is a family-friendly city with many activities and attractions suitable for children.

20

The city is also a hub for fashion and design, with many boutiques and design stores.

Basic Danish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hej

hay

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Farvel

far-vel

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

Tak

tahg

Showing appreciation

Yes

Ja

yah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nej

nay

Disagreeing or denying

Please

Vær så venlig

ver so ven-lee

Making a request

Excuse me

Undskyld mig

oon-skul me

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Jeg forstår ikke

yai for-stoar ik-ke

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Taler du engelsk?

tahler doo eng-elsk

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm sorry

Jeg beklager

yai be-klah-er

Apologizing

Where is the bathroom?

Hvor er toilettet?

vor er toy-let-et

Asking for directions

How much does it cost?

Hvad koster det?

vad koster det

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Jeg vil gerne have...

yai vil gerne have

Making a request or order

Help!

Hjælp!

yelp

In an emergency or needing assistance

Can I have the bill, please?

Kan jeg få regningen, tak?

kan yai foh reh-ning-en, tahg

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Cheers!

Skål!

skoal

Making a toast

Good morning

God morgen

god morgen

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

God nat

god nat

Saying goodbye in the evening

I'm lost

Jeg er fortabt

yai er for-tabt

When you're lost

Where is...?

Hvor er...?

vor er

Asking for directions

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight jacket or sweater

  • Comfortable pants or shorts

  • T-shirts or tops

  • Underwear and socks

  • Pajamas

  • Scarf or shawl (for cooler evenings)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Travel-size body wash or soap

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-size first aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport or ID

  • Boarding passes or e-tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Local currency (Danish krone)

  • Map or guidebook

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Portable power bank

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Travel guide or phrasebook

  • Umbrella or raincoat

  • Backpack or daypack

Weather Conditions

Copenhagen, Denmark, is known for its cool, temperate oceanic climate. The city experiences all four seasons, each with its unique charm and weather conditions. In the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can drop to as low as 32°F (0°C), and snowfall is common. It's essential to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. The daylight hours are short, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly. Spring, from March to May, sees milder temperatures ranging from 37°F to 59°F (3°C to 15°C). It's a beautiful time to visit as the city blooms with flowers. Pack a mix of light and warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 72°F (10°C to 22°C). It's the best time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, like Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue. Pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Autumn, from September to November, sees temperatures drop from 59°F to 41°F (15°C to 5°C). The city is adorned with beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Pack warm clothing and a waterproof jacket, as rain is common during this period. Regardless of the season, Copenhagen's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, remember that the city is known for its biking culture, so consider packing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for cycling. Enjoy your visit to this charming Scandinavian city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Copenhagen, so pack warm clothes. Snow is possible, but not guaranteed.

February

4° / -1°

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. The days start to get a bit longer.

March

8° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring, with slightly warmer temperatures and more daylight hours.

April

15° / 3°

April is a pleasant month with the city coming to life. However, there can still be occasional cold snaps.

May

19° / 8°

May is a great time to visit, with mild temperatures and long days. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom.

June

22° / 11°

June is the start of summer, with long, bright days. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

July

25° / 13°

July is the warmest month, perfect for enjoying the city's beaches and outdoor cafes.

August

25° / 13°

August is still quite warm, but with more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

September

20° / 10°

September is a pleasant month with fewer tourists. The weather is still good for outdoor activities.

October

15° / 7°

October sees the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors.

November

10° / 4°

November is quite chilly, with shorter days. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December

7° / 1°

December is cold with short days, but the Christmas markets and festive lights make it a magical time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Copenhagen is known as 'The City of Spires' due to its skyline bristling with beautiful churches and castles?

1 of 10

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