Copenhagen, Denmark-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Centre

Morning

  • Arrive at Kastrup Airport (CPH) and take the metro (M2 line) to Nørreport Station
  • Check-in at Axel Guldsmeden, a boutique hotel in the heart of Copenhagen
  • Start your day at Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square), surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shopping streets

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic The Little Mermaid statue at Langelinie promenade
  • Walk to Nyhavn, a colourful harbour with bars, restaurants, and sailboats
  • Explore the trendy Vesterbro neighbourhood, known for its street food, vintage shops, and nightlife

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Schønnemann, serving traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød)
  • Experience Copenhagen’s vibrant atmosphere at Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks (open from late March to September)

Day 2: Castles and Canals

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Kronborg Castle in Helsingør (approximately 1 hour by train)
  • Explore the castle, famous for its connection to Shakespeare’s Hamlet
  • Return to Copenhagen and take a Harbour Bus Tour to see the city from a different perspective

Afternoon

  • Visit the stunning Rosenborg Castle, featuring beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing the Danish Crown Jewels
  • Relax in the picturesque Kings Garden, adjacent to Rosenborg Castle

Evening

  • Dine at Café Dyrehaven, offering traditional Danish cuisine with a modern twist
  • Explore the lively Istedgade street, known for its bars, clubs, and cocktail lounges

Day 3: Art, Culture, and Food

Morning

  • Visit the National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst), featuring an impressive collection of Danish and international art
  • Stop by the trendy Torvehallerne, a marketplace with food stalls, cafes, and shops

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming Frederiksberg Gardens, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city
  • Visit the iconic Freetown Christiania, a self-governing community known for its alternative culture and vibrant street art

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant 108, offering modern Nordic cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients
  • Experience Copenhagen’s jazz scene at La Fontaine, a cozy club featuring live music performances

Day 4: Day Trip to Malmö, Sweden

Morning

  • Take the train from Copenhagen Central Station to Malmö Central Station (approximately 35 minutes)
  • Explore the charming Old Town (Gamla Staden), featuring cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and medieval architecture
  • Visit the iconic Malmö Castle, a stunning Renaissance-style fortress

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at Saltimport, a popular food market with a variety of international cuisines
  • Explore the vibrant Söder neighbourhood, known for its street art, independent shops, and cafes

Evening

  • Return to Copenhagen by train and enjoy dinner at Høst, serving modern Danish cuisine with a focus on sustainability
  • Relax in the trendy Kødbyen (Meatpacking District), featuring bars, restaurants, and nightlife

Day 5: Last Day in Copenhagen

Morning

  • Visit the iconic Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family
  • Explore the beautiful King’s Garden, adjacent to Amalienborg Palace

Afternoon

  • Stop by the famous Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets
  • Visit the Designmuseum Danmark, showcasing a wide range of Danish design and art

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurant Uformel, offering modern Nordic cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients
  • End your trip with a scenic harbour walk, taking in the sights and sounds of Copenhagen

Practical Information

Transportation

  • Buy a City Pass, which grants access to public transportation, including buses, trains, and metro lines
  • Use the Journey Planner app to plan your routes and track schedules

Things to Know

  • Denmark is an expensive country, so budget accordingly
  • Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is considered polite
  • Most Copenhagen residents speak English fluently, but learning a few basic Danish phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the culture

Tips and Tricks

  • Buy food at local markets or supermarkets to save money
  • Take advantage of happy hour deals (usually between 4 pm and 6 pm) at bars and restaurants
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear

Accommodation

  • Axel Guldsmeden: A boutique hotel in the heart of Copenhagen, offering stylish rooms and a cozy atmosphere
  • Adina Apartment Hotel: A modern aparthotel with fully equipped kitchens and a relaxing courtyard

Restaurants and Cafes

  • Restaurant Schønnemann: Serving traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød)
  • Café Dyrehaven: Offering traditional Danish cuisine with a modern twist
  • Torvehallerne: A marketplace with food stalls, cafes, and shops

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and entertainment, showcasing the best of Copenhagen. Enjoy your trip!