Copenhagen, the vibrant capital of Denmark, is not only known for its picturesque canals and historic charm but also for its commitment to sustainability. If you’re a conscious traveler seeking an eco-friendly escape, Copenhagen is the perfect destination. From green transportation options to farm-to-table dining, this city seamlessly blends modern luxury with a commitment to the environment. I have been to Copenhagen so many times and it really is one of my favourite cities in Europe! And if you are base in Europe is definitely a great destination for a weekend gateway.
Here are some of the best ways to enjoy a weekend in Copenhagen:
Friday Afternoon
Start your visit to Copenhagen with some of the most popular attractions. Wander through charming Nyhavn and savor the magical atmosphere of the colorful houses and tall boats that fill the canal. Enjoy a stroll along the harbor and admire the contrast between the historic warehouses and modern additions such as the gigantic Opera House. The walk will take you to Amalienborg Royal Palace, Kastellet Fortress, the impressive Gefion Fountain and the iconic Little Mermaid.
Admire the city from another perspective by taking an electric boat tour or alternatively you can take the green bike tour to discover the city in the most sustainable way!
Evening
For dinner, try a taste of the renowned New Nordic cuisine at the stylish yet welcoming Høst. Choose the fixed menu accompanied by wine or gourmet juice. The menu here changes with the seasons, meaning you’ll enjoy fresh local flavors and the chic Scandinavian decor will make the experience even more memorable.
Continue your evening at Ruby, a fantastic cocktail bar located on the canal banks in the oldest part of Copenhagen.
Choose from a variety of creative cocktails and immerse yourself in the speakeasy atmosphere, sinking into the sofas while enjoying a tasty shot.
Saturday Morning
Head to foodie favourite Torvehallerne Market Hall for breakfast and discover the local culinary choices. Tuck into a bowl of porridge with fresh apples, toasted almonds and handmade caramel sauce at Grød, savor deliciously flaky pastries at Laura’s Bakery or get your coffee fix at the renowned Coffee Collective. Browse local produce and pick up some food souvenirs, such as organic chocolates from Summerbirs or sea buckthorn jam from Bornholmer Butikken.
Walk along the charming pedestrian streets towards the historic Round Tower, where you can choose to ascend the spiral staircase to admire the city views. Discover picturesque Amagertorv and visit some of the surrounding Danish brands, including porcelain maker Royal Copenhagen, silversmith Georg Jensen, design shop HAY House and department store Illums Bolighus; its fabulous homewares section is a great place to grab mementos of your trip.
Afternoon
Have a quick and tasty lunch at DØP, where you can taste an organic pølse, the Danish hot dog. DØP offers a range of sausages, and as well a vegetarian option. Set off to explore the island of Slotsholmen, where Copenhagen was founded in 1167.
Visit Christiansborg, the seat of the Danish Parliament and the working Queen’s Palace – where you can tour the state rooms of the Royal Apartments including the Great Hall, which features colorful modern tapestries illustrating 1100 years of Danish history. Slotsholmen is also home to the Royal Stables and riding stables, where the Queen’s horses are often seen grazing or being trained, and the tranquil gardens of the Royal Library.
Take a break and indulge your sweet tooth with the best cheesecake in Copenhagen at Bertels Salon, which offers a wide choice of flavours that change according to the season. Do you still have time? Stroll past the historic Stock Exchange and its distinctive spiral Dragon Spire, then cross the harbor to Christianshavn Island which was created in the 1600s. This historic area includes a charming canal lined with small boats, creating a nautical atmosphere .
Evening
Opt for a nice dinner in the latin quarter before heading to the iconic Tivoli, the second oldest amusement park in the world. Admire the twinkling lights and scenic lake and soar through the sky on the Star Flyer or enjoy after-dinner cocktails in the exclusive Nimb restaurant. In the warmer months, Tivoli hosts live music every evening and on Saturdays you can enjoy swing music under the stars followed by fireworks at 11.45pm.
Sunday Morning
Make your way to the multicultural Nørrebro neighborhood and enjoy one of the best brunches in the city at Wulff & Konstali. Choose 5 or 7 items for an ever-changing array of delicious possibilities, such as mushroom and truffle sandwiches with goat’s cheese or poppy seed waffles with lemon curd.
Stroll through the leafy Assistens Cemetery (the burial place of famous Danish figures such as Hans Christian Andersen and the philosopher Søren Kirkegaard, among others) to Jægerborggade, a once-seedy street that is now home to some of Copenhagen’s best independent shops, vintage boutiques and artists’ studios.
Afternoon
Try a modern interpretation of smørrebrød, a traditional Danish sandwich opened by Selma.
Enjoy a local Mikkeller beer on tap or try a strong akvavit, homemade flavoured drink.
Finally, soak up some history with a visit to Rosenborg Castle, built in 1607 as the country residence of King Christian IV. Now a museum, the castle boasts a fascinating collection of furniture, paintings and artefacts including a narwhal tooth throne. Visit the treasury to take a look at some of the most precious treasures including the Crown Jewels. Take a stroll through the idyllic gardens surrounding the castle, including the Renaissance-style rose garden which has great views of Rosenborg.
As your perfect weekend in Copenhagen draws to a close, take a final walk through the colorful streets of the old city and immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere. By now you will already be planning your return!
