The First Timer’s Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark

Greatest Hits

A quintessential Danish experience, CopenHot is a floating day spa complete with hot tubs and sailing spas. The wilderness facilities in an urban setting are a must when in the city to relax and unwind.

For shopping, Strøget is the largest shopping area and is located in the heart of the city. It’s also one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, and is worth perusing even if you’re just window shopping – the city’s street performers will give you plenty to watch as well.

Make sure to stop by Nyhavn, one of the most iconic sites in the city. The port is lined with beautiful, newly renovated houses and is the perfect place to go for the classic Copenhagen photograph. The famous Danish fairytale writer, Hans Christian Andersen, used to live in no. 20.

Speaking of Hans Christian Anderson, literary fans would enjoy seeing the inspiration of his most famous story, The Little Mermaid. The sculpture is beautiful, so I would definitely recommend seeing it while in Copenhagen.

Get your history on

For the history buffs, Rosenborg Slot is a beautiful castle that was originally built in the 1600s, and The Round Tower is a 17th century observatory tower and the oldest functioning observatory in Europe.

Visit Free Town

Another fun spot to visit is Christiania, an area that was formerly a military base and is now known as Copenhagen’s hippie “Free Town,” a nickname due to its cannabis trade that takes place in its famous “Green Light District.”

Winter activities

If you’re visiting in the winter months, CopenHill is a great ski slope located on top of a waste-to-energy plant, a location that also includes hiking and climbing.

Nightlife

Copenhagen offers everything from mainstream discos to underground clubs – there’s plenty of experiences for the night owl. One of my personal favorite spots is Jolene, a club located in the meatpacking district. Jolene’s infamous claim to fame is that after opening at its original location, it became such a success that in just four months, it was forced to shut its doors due to incessant neighbor complaints. Now, the club has reopened its doors in chic new offerings – and the party goes on.

Breakfast & coffee

Coffee Collective: A fantastic coffee shop with an ethos rooted in sustainability, Coffee Collective has several locations around the city. For those looking for a more intimate experience, you can also take a class with them (tastings, brew courses and more).

Juno the Bakery: An award-winning bakehouse, you can expect to have to wait in line at Juno – but trust me, it’s worth it.

Food halls

Visiting food halls and markets are one of my favorite ways to get a taste of a city, and Torvehallerne Food Hall doesn’t disappoint. An upscale farmers market, go for the food as well as the experience itself.

Another local favorite is Tivoli Food Hall, located in the new building the Tivoli Corner and filled with some of Copenhagen’s best eateries.

Broens Gadekøkken is a food court that also doubles as an ice skating rink.

Lunch & dinner

BÆST: An authentic Nørrebro’rian experience, BÆST has a menu rooted in organic ingredients prepared with sustainability top of mind.

Barr: A casual restaurant, Barr is a go-to spot for some of Denmark’s classic dishes like salted waffles, schnitzel and Danish meatballs.