Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, is officially the world’s happiest city, according to a recent ‘World Happiness Report’ from the Earth Institute at New York’s Columbia University. This colorful Danish capital is not only known for its joyful inhabitants but is also consistently voted one of the world’s most livable cities. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to explore more, this 3 day itinerary will guide you through Copenhagen’s must-see attractions and hidden gems.
From iconic landmarks to local favorites, you’ll experience the best that this vibrant and welcoming Scandinavian city has to offer. You can even tailor your itinerary based on our 3 days in Copenhagen recommendations, and visit attractions that appeal to you. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the happiest city on Earth!
Table of Contents
Is 3 Days In Copenhagen Enough?
Absolutely! While you could easily spend a week or more exploring everything Copenhagen has to offer, 3 days is a perfect amount of time to experience the city’s highlights and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. If you’re really short on time and only have one day, it’s still possible to get a taste of Copenhagen by focusing on the key attractions outlined in Day 1: Classic Copenhagen—places like Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, and Tivoli Gardens give you a glimpse of the city’s charm and history. However, to truly experience Copenhagen and feel its unique blend of old-world history and modern Scandinavian lifestyle, you’ll need a bit more time.
Three days is just enough to scratch the surface of this wonderful city and begin to understand what makes it consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. By spreading your visit over a few days, you’ll have the opportunity to not only check off the iconic landmarks but also dive deeper into the local culture—exploring hidden neighborhoods like Nordhavn, wandering through the free-spirited Christiania, and enjoying the city’s world-class culinary scene. Three days lets you balance sightseeing with relaxing, so you can soak in the very essence of what makes Copenhagen such a happy, welcoming, and fascinating destination.
Day 1: Classic Copenhagen
Morning: Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid
Start your 3 days in Copenhagen adventure at Nyhavn, the city’s iconic waterfront. This colorful 17th-century harbor is lined with brightly painted townhouses, charming cafes, and historic wooden ships. As you stroll along the canal, take in the vibrant atmosphere and maybe even hop on a boat tour to see the city from the water.
Next, take a short walk to see the Little Mermaid Statue, one of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, this bronze statue has become a symbol of the city. While it may be smaller than expected, the statue’s setting along the waterfront is picturesque and worth the visit. The statue does get busy, so it is worth going early if possible. Alternatively you can get a boat cruise from Nyhavn which will take you past the Little Mermaid statue via the water.
Mid-Morning: Amalienborg Palace
From the Little Mermaid, head over to Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family. Try to arrive around noon to witness the changing of the guard ceremony, which is a fascinating glimpse into Danish royal traditions. Afterward, explore the palace square and marvel at the grandeur of the four identical rococo-style buildings.
Lunch: TorvehallerneKBH
When lunchtime rolls around, make your way to TorvehallerneKBH, Copenhagen’s famous food market. This bustling spot offers a wide variety of Danish and international cuisine, perfect for grabbing a quick bite or sampling local delicacies like Smørrebrød, the traditional Danish open-faced sandwich. With dozens of food & drink stalls to choose from, including traditional Danish foods, plus many other choices like Argentinian Empanadas & Mexican Tacos, you’ll find something to satisfy every palate.
Afternoon: Rosenborg Castle and the King’s Gardens
After lunch, head to Rosenborg Castle, a stunning Renaissance-era palace set in the King’s Gardens (Kongens Have). The castle is home to the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia, as well as an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. The surrounding gardens are the oldest in the city, providing a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk or a break on one of the many benches.
Evening: Tivoli Gardens
End your first day at Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. Opened in 1843, Tivoli is more than just a theme park; it’s a cultural landmark filled with beautiful gardens, charming pavilions, and a variety of rides and attractions. Whether you’re looking for thrills on the roller coasters or simply want to enjoy the evening atmosphere with live music and twinkling lights, Tivoli is a magical place to spend your evening.
On Saturdays in summer, Tivoli also has a fireworks show at the end of the evening – a great place to visit when it’s warm and sunny!
Insider Tip: Want to save on admission at Tivoli? We booked our entrance tickets through Klook and saved around 10% on entry. Just show them the voucher at the admission gate and your in!
Book your tickets to Tivoli Gardens here.
Day 2: Hidden Gems and Cultural Treasures
Morning: Botanical Gardens and the Palm House
Begin your second day with a visit to the Copenhagen Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. These gardens are home to over 13,000 species of plants, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Don’t miss the Palm House, an impressive 19th-century greenhouse that houses exotic plants from around the world. While a visit to the Palm House used to be free, recently they have begun charging for entry. For a small fee (70DKK), you can explore its tropical interior, which is especially welcoming on a chilly day. This also includes entry to the Butterfly House, home to many species of butterflies that will flutter by you as you wander through.
Late Morning: Natural History Museum
Adjacent to the Botanical Gardens is the Natural History Museum of Denmark. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on the natural world, including dinosaurs, minerals, and Denmark’s natural history. It’s an educational stop that’s perfect for families or anyone interested in learning more about the natural sciences.
Afternoon: Christiania
After soaking in the tranquility of the gardens, head over to Freetown Christiania, one of Copenhagen’s most unique neighborhoods. Established in 1971, Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous district known for its alternative lifestyle, vibrant street art, and communal living. As you wander through its streets, you’ll encounter eclectic art installations, cozy cafes, and local markets. Photography is restricted in some areas, so be sure to respect the local customs.
Late Afternoon: Nordhavn
Next, explore Nordhavn, a revitalized waterfront area that showcases Copenhagen’s modern architecture and urban planning. Once an industrial harbor, Nordhavn has been transformed into a trendy neighborhood with sleek apartment buildings, chic cafes, and waterfront promenades. Take a walk along the harbor, admire the innovative designs, and soak in the contemporary vibe of this up-and-coming district. There are a number of coffee shops and restaurants to fill you should you desire, or simply jump in the water with the locals to cool off.
Nordhavn also offers a great place to stay if you’re wondering where to stay in Copenhagen. Check out our full review of STAY Nordhavn here.
Evening: Rundetaarn (Round Tower)
As evening approaches, make your way to Rundetaarn (the Round Tower), one of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the 17th century as an astronomical observatory, the Round Tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The unique helical ramp inside the tower makes the climb to the top both easy and interesting. Time your visit to catch the sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light. From here, you’ll be right in the city centre so you can head to one of Copenhagen’s many fantastic restaurants for your evening meal.
Day 3: Art, Architecture, and Local Experiences
Morning: National Museum of Denmark
Kick off your final day in Copenhagen with a visit to the National Museum of Denmark. This extensive museum covers Danish history from the Stone Age to the present day, with exhibits on Viking culture, medieval artifacts, and more. It’s a great way to gain deeper insights into Denmark’s rich cultural heritage.
Late Morning: Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
Next, head to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum founded by the Carlsberg brewery magnate Carl Jacobsen. The museum boasts an impressive collection of ancient and modern art, including works by Rodin, Degas, and Van Gogh. The building itself is a work of art, with a stunning winter garden that’s perfect for a relaxing break between exhibits.
Lunch: Traditional Smørrebrød
For lunch, indulge in a traditional Danish meal of Smørrebrød at a local café. These open-faced sandwiches come with a variety of toppings, from pickled herring to roast beef, and are a must-try when in Copenhagen. Pair your meal with a local beer or a glass of snaps for the full Danish experience.
Afternoon: Church of Our Saviour
In the afternoon, visit the Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke), located in the Christianshavn district. The church is famous for its helix spire, which you can climb for another breathtaking view of the city. The 400-step climb may be steep, but the reward is a stunning 360-degree panorama of Copenhagen, including the harbor and beyond.
Late Afternoon: Copenhagen Lakes
After descending from the spire, take a leisurely stroll along the Copenhagen Lakes, a series of three rectangular lakes that run through the city. This area is popular with locals for walking, jogging, and cycling. You can rent a bike and join the locals, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery with a coffee from one of the nearby cafes.
Evening: Meatpacking District (Kødbyen)
End your day with dinner in the Meatpacking District, known locally as Kødbyen. This former industrial area has been transformed into one of Copenhagen’s trendiest neighborhoods, filled with restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet dining or something more casual, Kødbyen offers a diverse range of options to suit every taste. After dinner, explore the area’s vibrant nightlife, or simply relax with a drink and soak in the local atmosphere.
Optional/Honorable Mentions
If you have some extra time or want to explore beyond the main itinerary, here are a few additional attractions and experiences worth considering:
1. Day Trip to Malmö, Sweden
Just a 40-45 minute train ride from Copenhagen’s Central Station, Malmö in Sweden makes for an excellent day trip. Once you arrive, explore the charming historic city center, including the Malmöhus Castle and St. Peter’s Church. Wander through the trendy Västra Hamnen district, known for its modern architecture and the Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building. Enjoy a Swedish fika (coffee break) at a local café before heading back to Copenhagen in the evening.
2. Copenhagen Zoo
Located in the Frederiksberg district, Copenhagen Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, dating back to 1859. The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals representing 264 species, including elephants, lions, and polar bears. The zoo’s recently renovated enclosures, such as the Elephant House designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, provide a great experience for visitors of all ages.
3. Kastellet (The Citadel)
Kastellet is one of the best-preserved star-shaped fortresses in Northern Europe. This historic site, located near the Little Mermaid statue, offers a peaceful place to stroll along its ramparts while enjoying views of the surrounding park and the harbor. The area is also home to a charming windmill and a small museum that provides insights into the history of this military site. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection.
Final Thoughts
Three days in Copenhagen offers just enough time to experience the city’s highlights while uncovering some of its hidden gems. From the historical charm of Nyhavn and Rosenborg Castle to the modern allure of Nordhavn and the artistic treasures at Glyptotek, Copenhagen is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Whether you’re climbing church spires for panoramic views, exploring alternative communities like Christiania, or enjoying the local cuisine, Copenhagen promises an unforgettable adventure. If you have more time, consider visiting additional attractions like the Copenhagen Zoo or taking a scenic canal tour. Whatever you choose, Copenhagen’s charm and hospitality will leave you wanting to return again and again.
Before your visit, don’t forget to check out our blog post on our top tips when visiting Copenhagen!
