3-Day Family Itinerary for Food, Wine, Shopping & Relaxation in Copenhagen

Copenhagen, Denmark

3 days

Gefion fountain
Schloss Rosenborg
Panoramic aerial cityscape
The Royal Danish Opera
Portland Towers in Nordhavn district

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.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Iconic Landmarks and Danish History

Morning

Start your day at the iconic Little Mermaid statue, a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale. This is a great spot for family photos.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Danish lunch at a local eatery. Try smørrebrød, Denmark's famous open-faced sandwich.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the National Museum of Denmark, where you can learn about the country's history and culture.

Dinner

Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of cuisines to cater to all tastes.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Nyhavn canal, lined with colorful 17th-century townhouses and historical wooden ships.

Morning

Visit the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks. It offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages.

Lunch

Have lunch at a café in the Tivoli Gardens. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings while sampling Danish pastries.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping on Strøget, one of Europe's longest pedestrian streets. It's home to a wide range of shops, from budget-friendly chains to high-end luxury brands.

Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant offering a selection of Danish wines. Try some local cheeses as well.

Evening

End the day with a relaxing boat tour along the city's canals. It's a great way to see Copenhagen's beautiful architecture and landmarks lit up at night.

Morning

Start your final day in Copenhagen with a visit to the impressive Christiansborg Palace, home to the Danish Parliament.

Lunch

Have lunch at a cozy café near the palace. Try a Danish hot dog, a popular street food.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Copenhagen Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. It's home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Copenhagen at a restaurant offering traditional Danish cuisine. Don't forget to try the famous Danish dessert, Æblekage (apple cake).

Evening

End your trip with a leisurely walk around the King's Garden, the oldest and most visited park in Copenhagen. It's a perfect place to relax and reflect on your trip.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Little Mermaid statue

1
Little Mermaid statue

The iconic bronze statue depicting Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale figure, located on the Langelinie promenade.

Attractions
Landmarks
National Museum of Denmark

2
National Museum of Denmark

Denmark's largest museum of cultural history.

Attractions
Museums
Nyhavn canal

3
Nyhavn canal

A 17th-century waterfront, canal and entertainment district, famous for its brightly colored 17th and early 18th century townhouses and bars, cafes and restaurants.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Tivoli Gardens

4
Tivoli Gardens

A famous amusement park and pleasure garden in Copenhagen.

Attractions
Parks
Entertainment
Strøget

5
Strøget

One of Europe's longest pedestrian streets with a wealth of shops, from budget-friendly chains to some of the world's most expensive brands.

Shopping
Landmarks
Christiansborg Palace

6
Christiansborg Palace

The seat of the Danish Parliament with parts of it open to the public for tours.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Copenhagen Zoo

7
Copenhagen Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in Europe. It features a multitude of animals and a dedicated tower which offers views over the surrounding park and city.

Attractions
Parks
King's Garden

8
King's Garden

The oldest and most visited park in Copenhagen, adjacent to Rosenborg Castle. It features a large variety of plants and flowers, as well as a statue of Hans Christian Andersen.

Parks
Gardens

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

  • Underwear (3 pairs)

  • Socks (3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (3)

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2)

  • Jeans or comfortable trousers (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Pajamas

  • Sweater or jacket

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Facial cleanser and moisturizer

  • Sunscreen

  • Makeup (if applicable)

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver’s license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for liquids

  • Tote or daypack for daily excursions

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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