The Best of Copenhagen: A 3-Day Itinerary

On your first morning, I recommend grabbing some e-bikes and taking a bike ride to Nyhavn, the postcard-perfect port with colorful buildings, boats, and serious charm.

Hop on a one-hour canal cruise to get your bearings from the water—and see some major architectural gems throughout the city.

After the canal tour, bike over to the Refshaleøen neighborhood. Once an old industrial shipyard area, Refshaleøen has transformed into one of Copenhagen’s most creative, laid-back, and experimental neighborhoods. Grab a snack at La Banchina, a baked good from Lille or Hart Bakery, or have lunch at Reffen, a lively, waterside street food market with global flavors and a laid-back vibe.

I recommend dinner at Fiskebar in the Meatpacking District. It's stylish and unfussy, with delicious fresh seafood.

Start the day with a Copenhagen food tour. I highly recommend Copenhagen by Mie & Friends. You will start at Torvehallerne, the city’s sleek, glass-walled food hall with 60+ vendors. Think local cheeses, smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), and organic coffee. You will continue on to other hidden gems throughout the city—each one more delicious than the next.

In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Carlsberg District, a fascinating blend of old brewery architecture and ultra-modern urban development. Don’t miss the Elephant Gate & Carlsberg Tower.

Spend a few hours before dinner exploring Tivoli Gardens (if you have children with you, you may want to consider spending half a day here). It’s one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and is magical at night. We braved the haunted house, and let’s just say, it was terrifying.

Have dinner at JATAK, an unforgettable Michelin-starred experience in Nørrebro. Sit at the bar, do the wine pairing, and let the chefs guide you. A blend of Danish ingredients and Asian flavors with serious finesse.

Dedicate at least half a day to visit the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Just 40 minutes by train from the city, the museum offers a perfect combo of bold contemporary art and peaceful nature, with a sculpture garden that overlooks the sea.

In the afternoon (time permitting), take a walk around Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen’s self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood. It’s colorful, creative, and unlike anywhere else. This neighborhood has a gritty feel to it, so it is not for everyone.

After, if you don’t have a fear of heights, climb to the top of the Church of Our Savior (400 steps total to the top, with the final 150 steps outside on a spiral staircase that wraps around the tower). The climb rewards you with panoramic views of Copenhagen, including the harbor, Christiania, and beyond.

For your final evening in Copenhagen, enjoy dinner at Barr: Nordic comfort food in an elegant setting. Order the schnitzel!