Things to do in Copenhagen in 2 Days
If Copenhagen, Denmark is not on your radar for European travel, it should be. I admit, before coming here I wasn’t super interested in it, but after visiting I fell in love with the city. It’s beautiful, clean, surrounded by water, full of independent shops and restaurants, and exudes Scandinavian charm. I was lucky enough to visit on a very sunny and relatively warm day in May. I was by myself so I was able to fit a lot into my time and didn’t have to worry about entertaining kids.
Below are my recommendations for the best things to do in Copenhagen in 2 days. I added some additional ideas of things to do with more time, because I will bet that you end up wanting more than 2 days in Copenhagen! This post includes information on getting around the city, where to stay, and what to do if you visit Copenhagen with kids.
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How to Get to Copenhagen
Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to reach. Most travelers fly into Copenhagen International Airport (CPH). Multiple airline carriers fly into this airport ranging from higher end to budget. To get into the main city center, catch the train, metro, or bus and arrive in the city in 15-20 minutes. After you exit baggage claim, there are plenty of ticket kiosks that have an English option to purchase your ticket. There are also staff onsite nearby if you have questions.
Check flights to Copenhagen
For travelers coming from Sweden, the Öresund Bridge links Copenhagen and Malmö, allowing you to arrive easily by train or car. Once you land, public transportation is seamless and cash-free—you can use credit cards for metro, train, and bus tickets, or opt for a Copenhagen Card for unlimited travel.
How to Get Around Copenhagen
This is a city where I would not recommend driving and getting a rental car, especially if you are only in Copenhagen for 2 days. Instead, explore on foot, by bike, or with public transportation.
I spent my time walking around the city from place to place and enjoyed the time outside.
If you are a confident biker, this is the perfect city to cycle in. I’m sure there’s more bikes than cars in Copenhagen and the city is really set up for biking. There are bike lanes and the city is quite flat. I wouldn’t recommend biking if you don’t have a good handle on city biking, biking in traffic, etc. You might end up flustered and nervous and cause an accident.
Copenhagen has excellent public transportation as well. You can use the metro, bus, and tram system. Consider the Copenhagen Card which includes 80+ attractions, all public transportation, two kids for free, and an airport transfer.
How Many Days in Copenhagen
Having 2 days in Copenhagen is the minimum I would suggest. You can’t fit everything into 2 days in Copenhagen, but if that’s all you have to explore, go for it and you will have a really great time! Ideally, you would plan for 3 days to give you time to also do a day trip from Copenhagen. Read more below on how to make the most out of your time and pick the best things to do in Copenhagen.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen
Copenhagen has no shortage of lodging options. Accommodations in the center will be at a higher price point but luckily Copenhagen is very well connected by public transportation, so if you want to save a little and stay further out it is an easy option. As in many European capitals, finding hotel rooms for families (especially with more than 2 kids) can be difficult. Often times, apartment are a better option. Here are some properties I would consider booking when making a return trip:
Or use the map below to start searching for the perfect property for you!
Best Time to Visit Copenhagen
Copenhagen is not known for its great weather, but if you visit from May-September, you’ll have the best chances for sun and warmth. These months bring longer daylight hours, outdoor festivals, and perfect weather for biking and enjoying canal-side cafés.
If you’re willing to take a chance on the cold, you’ll likely get better rates and fewer crowds from October-April. Overall, you should plan for the weather to be cold or chilly, and probably damp. Bring layers and rain jackets.
December has extra magic at Tivoli Gardens, often listed as a favorite Christmas market in Europe. Winter months outside of the holidays are much quieter and can be chilly, but they offer a more local, hygge-filled experience.
Things to Do in Copenhagen
This list is written in order of how I spent my one day in Copenhagen and finishing with the things I would’ve done if I had 2 days in Copenhagen. There are plenty of ideas here to fill your time and see the best of what Copenhagen has to offer.
See Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is one of the most iconic things to do in Copenhagen. It’s an amusement park that first opened in 1843 and it is right in the middle of the city. Tivoli Gardens has beautifully landscaped grounds, seasonal festivals, and enchanting evening light displays that make it magical for both kids and adults. Food lovers will enjoy everything from traditional Danish treats to gourmet dining, all within the park. Live performances, concerts, and theater shows add another layer of charm, there’s always something happening. If you are coming at Christmas time, this is an unmissable stop. The magical Christmas vibes are supposed to be next level here, so you wouldn’t want to miss out!
Admission Price (doesn’t include rides): 170 DKK
Admission & Rides: 189 DKK
Shop at Illums Bolighus
This store has several locations around the city and two are right next to Tivoli Gardens. You MUST stop in here for the absolute cutest and most chic Danish decor and souvenirs. I felt like I could’ve purchased the entire store, but I settled for some postcards and an adorable bike magnet that I will turn into a Christmas ornament.
Pro Tip: there’s even a store located at the airport so that you can snag everything you didn’t have time to get while you were touring the city. I picked up a Lemongrass candle at the airport from a Danish candlemaker and the scent is amazing. Or shop online here.
Pass by the City Hall
The Copenhagen City Hall sits on a huge square and is an interesting place to see. It’s covered in sculptures and you can hear more about the building by listening to a guided audio tour on GPSmyCity (that’s what I did). It also pointed out a nearby statue of Hans Christian Andersen that I would’ve completely missed if I was on my own. This area is also surrounded by plenty of shopping and restaurants.
Catch the Changing of the Guard at Amalienbourg Palace
If you enjoy a slice of royal life, you can watch the changing of the guard ceremony here each day at 12:00. Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of the Danish royal family. If you didn’t know better, you might think you were in London with the soldiers in the same bearskin hats. But don’t worry, this changing of the guard is much less crowded than the one in London. It does go on for quite a while, but after 5-10 minutes most people started to mill about and left their posts standing to watch the guards. There are lines of black cobblestones you’ll be expected (told by the police) to stand behind.
If you wander around the square as the guards make their rounds, you will get a chance to be up close to them but just be sure to keep out of the way.
The ceremony was interesting to watch but the best thing that came out of making a visit here to see them was stumbling up on Frederick’s Church!
See Frederick’s Church
This church (also known as the Marble Church) didn’t really strike me or come up when I was researching what to do with my time, but if you ask me it is tied with Nyhavn for the best place to take a photo in Copenhagen. The church is beautiful and quite striking with it’s size and turquoise copper dome. It’s actually the largest dome in Scandinavia. You can also climb the dome for a commanding view over Copenhagen. Don’t miss it!
Get a cardamom bun at Hart bakery
Since you’re already over here, stop by Hart bakery for a cardamom bun/croissant. If you haven’t heard about cardamom buns in Copenhagen, these are the most recommended must-eat-treat in the city. I can vouch that they are absolutely delicious and should not be skipped.
Some other places known for their Cardamom buns are: Juno Bakery, Sankt Peders Bageri
Walk over to Rosenberg Castle & Gardens
Hopefully you’ll get a nice sunny day like I did, and you can walk over to Rosenberg Gardens to enjoy your treat outdoors. The gardens are a great place people watch, enjoy the fresh air, and visit the Rosenberg Palace. This is where the soldiers start marching from (around 11:00) for the changing of the guard at Amalienborg, so that is another way to see them if it works better for your timeline. Inside the palace treasury you can also find the Danish crown jewels.
Shop in Posterland
Nearby Rosenberg Gardens is another store you’ll want to check out for cute Copenhagen art prints or just prints of any genre to decorate your walls at home. There is something for everyone in this shop and yet again, I had a hard time resisting buying it all.
Walk through Nyhavn
Now it’s time to visit the most recognizable spot in the city-Nyhavn. When you see pictures of colorful buildings along a canal and ships, you’re seeing Nyhavn. If you don’t get a picture here, did you even visit Copenhagen??
Stroll the canals or hop in a boat tour to see the city by water. Just be careful about eating here. Since it is the most popular spot in the city, the restaurants are also pretty touristy and more pricey than the quality of food probably demands. This is a great place to sit outside and have a drink in the afternoon but I would probably eat elsewhere.
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Go eat at Bøerns Food Market
Copenhagen has a few street food markets and you should definitely visit at least one! I chose Bøerns Food Market because of its proximity to Nyhaven. It was hard to choose which place to order from, but I went with Gasoline grill because I remembered seeing references to it’s amazing burgers. Everyone was right, the burger was soooo good. I also got myself a limoncello spritz from the spot next door and it was the same price as my burger. Has anyone told you yet that Copenhagen is expensive?
If I could make another recommendation it would be for Fuego, the Argentinian grill. We had this at another food market in Odense and it was our favorite meal we sampled there.
Round Tower
The Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is one of Copenhagen’s most unique landmarks famous for its wide spiral ramp that winds all the way to the top instead of traditional stairs. At the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Copenhagen’s rooftops, churches, and spires—perfect for photos. The tower is also still home to Europe’s oldest functioning observatory, making it a fascinating blend of history and science. Its central location near Strøget shopping street makes it a worthwhile stop on your itinerary.
Take a canal tour or rent a boat
This is one thing I didn’t squeeze in but would’ve loved to do! Since I was by myself, I planned to hop on a boat tour but ran out of time. If I had been with my family, I would’ve loved to rent our own little boat to cruise the canals on. I saw other people bring their own charcuterie and wine on board their rental boat, and it looked like one of the perfect things to do in Copenhagen!
Freetown Chrisitiana
Freetown Christiania is one of Copenhagen’s most unconventional and interesting neighborhoods, offering visitors a completely different side of the city. Founded in 1971 by a group of squatters, it has since evolved into a self-proclaimed autonomous community with its own set of rules and way of life. The area is famous for its colorful street art, handmade houses, and vibrant alternative culture that draws creatives, musicians, and free spirits. You can stroll along Pusher Street, where photography is restricted (seriously, be careful), and explore local cafés, workshops, and music venues that give the community its unique atmosphere. It’s a fascinating pocket of the city that is in contrast to the rest of polished streets and royal buildings.
Reffen Food Market
This street food market is another vibrant place to hang out and enjoy all types of culinary treats. Everything from classic Danish smørrbrød to international eats from around the globe. Best enjoyed when the weather is nice, but worth a stop anytime. Food markets must be on your list of things to do in Copenhagen!
Best Tours in Copenhagen
Canal Tour
This is one of the most quintessential things to do in Copenhagen. Amsterdam gets all the credit for being a city of canals, but Copenhagen can rival it. Seeing the city from the water is one of the best things to do in Copenhagen. Hop on one of these boat tours of the canals for a budget friendly option or hire your own private guided boat for a more intimate tour.
Bike Tour
Copenhagen can rival Amsterdam in another way…with the number of bikes! Copenhagen is a city built for biking and you’ll see more people biking than driving. So why not do as the locals do and jump on a bike tour? Bike tours are generally a guaranteed good time as long as you’re semi-comfortable biking. This 3 hour bike tour of Copenhagen will show you the highlights, get you moving, and have you enjoying the scenery all around you. They have all kinds of bike options for kids too, ranging from cargo bikes, to bike seats, to smaller bikes. The kids will love it!
Walking Tour
If biking isn’t your thing and your prefer to stay on your two feet, then try a walking tour with an educated local guide to tell you all the history and hidden gems you might want to know about.
Food Tours
If you’ve never done a food tour, you need to change that ASAP. And if you have done one, you won’t need much convincing that this is the most fun way to get to know a place. Eating the classic dishes you’ve heard about from the best spots in town plus trying things you’ve never heard of with a local guide. Here’s two variations for you to consider. The first is a classic walking food tour where you’ll try things like cheeses, gourmet smørrebrød, organic hot dogs, royal candy, and luxury chocolate. The second is leaning into Denmark’s bakery culture with a pastry walking tour where you’ll visit 5 of Copenhagen’s best bakeries.
Things to Do with Kids in Copenhagen
Are you visiting Copenhagen with kids? Then I might suggest adding in a few more kid oriented things to do. Here’s some ideas for the best things to do with kids in Copenhagen.
Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park
I mentioned this above, but if you are coming to Copenhagen with kids, this is a must do. They will love the whimsical feeling and riding the rides. It’s very centrally located so good luck walking by here without taking your kids in!
Lego Store
Legos were invented in Denmark, so it’s only right that you take your kids into a Lego store. In general Lego stores are entertaining in every city with their customized Lego sculptures of iconic spots in town and interactive play areas.
If you have more time in Denmark, you should add on a side trip to Billund to visit the Lego House and Legoland. I hear the Lego House is super entertaining and many families like it better than Legoland.
Playgrounds
You’ll find small playgrounds scattered throughout the city, often with a minimalist Scandinavian feel. One of the most famous playgrounds in the city is the traffic playground which is set up with miniature roads and traffic signs for little bikes and scooters. There’s also a playground in the Rosenborg gardens to let kids burn some energy.
Copenhagen Zoo
Copenhagen Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Europe, making it a great stop for families. Home to over 3,000 animals from around the world, the zoo allows visitors alike to get up close with everything from lions and elephants to penguins and red pandas. The zoo also features a large tropical house, a petting area, and an adventure playground, providing plenty of interactive experiences for younger visitors.
Experimentium
The Experimentium is an indoor, interactive science museum that will entertain kids and adults alike. Some of the fun exhibits you can experience are a bubble room, nature room where you can see what it’s like to live like a forest animal, interactive physics activities, ball tracks, ship simulator, and A LOT more! Buy your tickets online to save 10%!
Copenhagen Day Trips
Wondering where else you can visit from Copenhagen? Check out these Copenhagen day trip ideas.
Malmo, Sweden
Visit two countries on one trip! Malmo can be easily reached by train or car by crossing over a dramatic bridge. The train is the quickest way to get there, taking 45 minutes or less. Wander through Lilla Torg, a charming part of town with historic buildings, cobblestones, and cafes. Visit the Malmöhus Castle which houses an art museum and Museum of natural History.
Fredricksborg Slot, Denmark
This castle is sometimes referred to as the Nordic Versailles, it’s a very lavish and dramatic palace and gardens. Inside the castle is the National History Museum with paintings, furniture, sculptures, and other decorative arts.
Odense, Denmark
Home of famed writer Hans Christian Andersen, Odense has the author’s childhood home plus a whole museum dedicated to him (buy your tickets in advance). You’ll also find an open air museum and another great food market, Storms Pakhus in Odense.
Roskilde, Denmark
Roskilde is the place to go for a taste of Viking history. Visit the Viking Ship Museum to see real Viking ships recovered from the surrounding fjords. The Ragnarock museum is the place for music lovers. Roskilde is only about 25 minutes away from Copenhagen.
