Four Days in Copenhagen

Copenhagen Four Days Itinerary

From its vibrant culture to stunning architecture, this Danish capital has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a cultural experience, or a unique shopping destination, Copenhagen has it all. Join us as we explore the city and discover all it offers.

What a great surprise Copenhagen was. Our first visit to a nordic country left me in complete admiration and awe for all things danish, including the beauty of its inhabitants.

May I take a moment to congratulate the city of Copenhagen for being so incredibly organized and awesome? Starting with our Airbnb host, who sent us a detailed list of the things we needed to know, to the Visit Copenhagen website, the super helpful Copenhagen Card, and the excellent transportation system. Ohh, and the restaurants. We had brunch three days in a row. We couldn’t get enough of those pretty-looking and extremely tasty dishes.

Copenhagen Card

Copenhagen Card has become a popular way to get around the city. The card is available to residents and tourists and can be used for public transportation, shopping, dining, and other attractions. The card costs 80 Kr (about $12) and can be loaded with credits used in the various areas it covers.

This fantastic card includes access to over 80 museums and attractions and public transportation. With the Copenhagen Card, you can easily explore the city without worrying about transportation costs or entrance fees. Plus, you’ll get discounts on restaurants, shops, and other services throughout the city. So, if you’re a mom looking for a great way to explore Copenhagen, the Copenhagen Card is a perfect choice. With it, you can easily explore the city and save money.

Day 1 in Copenhagen

Start your day with a walk by the harbor, the postcard image of Copenhagen. After the mandatory pictures, head to Paper Island – an old building transformed into an international food market – for a culinary treat and some(beautiful) people-watching.

The Harbor

Copenhagen has been a maritime city for centuries, and the harbor is its heart. The harbor stretches for over seven miles along the city’s waterfront, and it is home to some of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks, like the Little Mermaid statue and the Royal Palace. The harbor is also a central transport hub, with ferries connecting Copenhagen to both Zealand and Sweden.

There’s even a boat tour that takes you around the harbor, giving you a unique perspective of the city. With its picturesque scenery and lively atmosphere, Copenhagen’s harbor is the perfect place to spend a day with your family.

Royal Palace

Amalienborg Palace is one of Europe’s most iconic palaces. The palace has served as the official residence of the Danish monarchs since its construction in the 17th century. Today, the palace is a popular tourist destination and a significant part of the city’s cultural heritage. The palace was founded in 1658 and is home to the Danish Monarchy. The palace is a beautiful building, and it was interesting to learn about its history.

Paper Island

Copenhagen is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The Danish capital is an instantly appealing destination, from its grandiose bridges to its picturesque canals. But many visitors don’t know that Copenhagen also boasts an incredible hidden gem: Paper Island.

Located just off the city’s harbor, Paper Island is a lush green oasis surrounded by shimmering waterways. The island has been used for centuries as a dumping ground for Copenhagen’s effluent, but thanks to a recent cleanup effort, it now sports an impressive array of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the island’s winding paths or relax on one of its many benches while taking in the stunning views.

Noma

From Paper Island, walk back towards the harbor and stop by Noma, the best restaurant in the world. Maybe the price tag and the “one-year-long” waiting list will only allow you to admire it from afar, but at least you can say that “you have been there” :).

Boat Tour

Next, you can rest your feet and have a go at the very popular boat tour. These tours are perfect for visitors who want to taste the city’s history and culture while also getting a great view. There are several different types of boat tours available, so whether you’re interested in learning about Copenhagen’s maritime history or simply admiring the city from below, there’s a tour for you.

If you have a Copenhagen Card, which I warmly recommend, you won’t need to pay for the entrance. Sit back, enjoy the views, and discover another side of the Danish capital. After the tour, go back to Paper Island for a street food dinner whilst enjoying the sunset. No better way to finish the first day!

Day 1 Map

Day 2 in Copenhagen

Begin your day with brunch at the trendy Mad & Kaffee in the Meat Packing district – don’t miss the avocado and the apple porridge. After the energy kick, you can start discovering the neighborhood. Before heading to Our Saviour’s Church, stop for a coffee and some people watching 🙂 at the Absalon Hotel.

Absalon Hotel

Absalon Hotel is a new property located in the heart of Copenhagen. It offers modern and stylish accommodation with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. From the spacious and comfortable rooms to the delicious cuisine, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy yourself in style. The hotel also features a full-service spa where you can indulge in various treatments to help you unwind and recharge. There’s also a pool and fitness center so that you can stay active during your stay. And when you’re ready to explore the city, the Absalon Hotel is conveniently located near many of Copenhagen’s top attractions.

Our Saviour’s Church

Next, walk or take the bus to Our Saviour’s Church, where you can experience the beautiful view of the city.

Copenhagen is known for its beautiful architecture and Viking history, but one of its most unique attractions is Our Saviour’s Church. Completed in 1885, the church is a magnificent example of Romanesque Revival architecture and is a popular tourist destination. The building features intricate carvings, a beautiful stained glass window, and a fantastic pipe organ. The church also serves as the headquarters for the Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Christiania

Just around the corner from the church, you have the famous Christiania. I was not a big fan of the place as there were more tourists than locals, and it seemed unauthentic, but it’s still worth a short stop.

Christiania is an autonomous area in Copenhagen, Denmark, that has been self-governing since the early 1990s. It was founded on February 17, 1971, as an intentional community by a group of hippies and anarchists who opposed the establishment and rules of society. Christiania is home to around 300 people and has been known for its colorful street art, open drug culture, and relaxed attitude toward crime.

Tivoli Gardens

From Christiania, take the bus or walk to Tivoli. We didn’t stay long as it was packed, but we liked it.

The name Tivoli is derived from the Danish words ‘tivoli’ and ‘villa’. The first part of the name means a garden, and the second part means a castle. The park was first opened to the public in 1843, quickly becoming a popular attraction for Copenhagen residents. It boasted an impressive array of attractions, including an amusement park, a zoo, a theatre, and gardens.

In 1896, the amusement park was closed due to safety concerns and replaced by a new zoo that remains open to this day. The theatre closed in 1934 but was reopened as an art gallery in 2001.

Today, the garden is a popular tourist destination with various attractions, including a lake, amusement park, and zoo. The Tivoli Gardens remain one of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions, with over 2 million visitors each year.

Planetarium

If you’ve had enough adrenaline, leave Tivoli and go to the Planetarium for a 3D experience, which I warmly recommend.

Copenhagen’s oldest and largest planetarium, built in 1877, reopened to the public in November after a three-year renovation. The 500-seat venue regularly offers shows and educational programs for school groups. Visitors can explore the exhibits and listen to lectures on astronomy while taking in views of the city or nearby lakes from the terrace.

Itzi Pitzi Pizza

Head back to the Meatpacking district and finish your day with an epic pizza. We discovered Itzi Pitzi Pizza by accident, and I tell you, no bs, it is epic! We eat in the park just opposite and loved every minute of it.

Day 2 Map

Day 3 in Copenhagen

Kick off day three with an epic brunch at Souls in Østerbro, then catch a train to the Louisiana museum. It’s outside Copenhagen, but worth the trip – there is a train leaving from the station opposite Tivoli.

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is one of the newest additions to the Copenhagen skyline. Situated on Nordhavn, it is just a short walk from Tivoli Gardens and the Nyhavn Canal. The museum was opened in December 2013 and has since become a popular tourist destination for visitors to Copenhagen.

The museum’s collection features over 2,000 objects from the 20th century, including works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Miró, and Andy Warhol. The museum also features an extensive collection of Danish art from the 1900s and 1910s and contemporary art worldwide.

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, when it closes at 5 pm. Admission is free for adults and children up to 18 years old.

Spend a few hours there, get back into town, and make your way to Frederiksberg for an epic burger at Grillen Burgerbar. Walk around the neighborhood and then (if you are staying at the same Airbnb as we did, before catching the bus to go back home) make your way to Tivoli again for smaller crowds and more fun :).

Here are some of the things to do in Tivoli:

• Take a ride on the flying Dutchman – this ride will thrill you!
• Visit the Chinese Garden – this garden features beautiful architecture and plants from China.
• Watch an opera performance – experience classical Italian opera live at Tivoli Gardens.
• Explore the Dragon’s Cave – this cave is home to stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
• Play games at Paddlewheel Park – try your hand at some classic arcade games like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong.

Frederiksberg

If Copenhagen is the city of canals, Frederiksberg must be the city of gardens. The municipality, located just north of the Capital, has more than 500 parks and gardens - many open to the public all year round. Frederiksberg is also known for its picturesque streets and squares and its impressive castle - home to Denmark’s Royal Family.

Day 3 Map

Day 4 in Copenhagen

Since brunch places are fantastic in Copenhagen, why not start day four with another one :). Head to La Esquina for Spanish-inspired goodies and a super relaxed atmosphere. Then, walk towards the Assistens Cemetery and stop by the lovely boutiques for some (window) shopping. Rest your feet whilst on the bus towards The Black Diamond, a modern waterfront building connected to the Royal Danish Library, where you can shop, visit exhibitions, or relax at the cafe.

The Black Diamond

Copenhagen, the city of love and learning, is home to two world-renowned libraries: The Black Diamond Library and the Royal Danish Library. Both libraries are famous for their extensive collections of books, manuscripts, and other rare artifacts. The Black Diamond Library was founded in 1874 by businessman H.C. Black and is located in the heart of Copenhagen’s fashionable Nørrebro district. The Royal Danish Library was founded in 1648 by King Christian IV and is located on the prestigious Slotsholmen island in central Copenhagen. Both libraries offer visitors various resources, from books to art prints and maps.

From the Black Diamond, take a bus to the center and have the famous smørrebrød (open sandwich) at Schønnemann. Make sure you book ahead; otherwise, you might not get a table. If that happens, the next best thing is Kronborg restaurant, which I recommend.

You’ve seen and tasted quite a bit of the city during these four days, and now you are ready to head to the airport. Not so quickly, there is one more stop on the way: National Aquarium Denmark.

National Aquarium Denmark

The National Aquarium Denmark is one of Copenhagen’s most popular tourist attractions. The aquarium has a wide range of exhibits, from the tropical rainforest to the Arctic exhibit. The aquarium also offers a variety of activities, such as dolphin shows and shark dives.

Day 4 map

Final Word

How to get there: We found an epic offer with Ryanair from Bruxelles to Copenhagen for only 15 euros. Yes, you read that right, it was only 15 euros. Thanks, Ryanair :).

Where to stay: We had a great stay at a lovely Airbnb. Our host was super friendly and helpful, and the room was clean, cozy, and with a view.

Denmark’s capital is a vibrant, exciting city with plenty of things to do. Whether you’re looking to explore its fascinating history or take in a world-famous performance, Copenhagen has something for everyone.

Don’t miss: Copenhagen Card includes, besides transportation, a wide range of attractions, including Tivoli, The Planetarium, Our Saviour’s Church, Louisiana Museum, etc. I highly recommend it.