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Copenhagen, the Danish capital, is an ideal European destination for those looking to travel for a long weekend getaway. It is a city that is desired for being design-conscious, bike-friendly, and home to some of the best restaurants and happiest people in the world. With everything from stunning architecture to Michelin-starred cuisines, here is everything you need to do in order to fall in love with the city of Copenhagen in just three days.
1. Stay in a Prime Location
If you're exploring the city in just three days, it's important to choose a hotel that is central to all of the activities and restaurants. Andersen Boutique Hotel in Vesterbro is walking distance from the city center and the main train station and is the perfect option for travelers who are on a tighter budget. The Andersen Hotel offers wine hour every night in the lobby lounge, comfortable beds, and bike rentals.
The five-star Hotel d'Angleterre is an icon and a historic landmark in Copenhagen and a great choice for travelers looking for luxury accommodations. Located close to Nyhavn and Stroget and with a metro station next door, the location is ideal for a short break.
2. Indulge at Michelin-Starred Restaurant Marchal
The Michelin-awarded restaurant Marchal, located at Hotel d'Angleterre, is a five-star dining experience not to be missed. The restaurant's fairly new head chef, Andreas Bagh, brings the delightful balance of French cuisine with a classic Nordic twist, all while continuing the legacy of the world-renowned restaurant. Menu highlights include Danish squid cooked with oysters and Champagne butter; oysters with green apples and fresh wasabi; and lobster tail with pumpkin, grape, and ginger sauce. After dinner, guests can walk over to Balthazar to enjoy some Champagne and cocktails.
To top it off, your expert sommelier/waiter will perfectly pair your dishes with white and red wines for an additional cost. If you're in Copenhagen, do yourself a favor and spoil yourself at Marchal . . . you will not regret it.
3. Explore the Nayhvn Waterfront
Nayhvn is the picturesque town that travelers dream about when they think of Copenhagen. Filled with people strolling through the colorful canal streets, listening to music, and tasting different foods, Nayhvn is the ideal spot to spend the day. If you have time, go on a canal tour for a wonderful way to see the city by water.
4. Brunch at Mad & Kaffe
Sunday brunch in Copenhagen must be spent at Mad & Kaffe. The cafe has a laid-back and cozy vibe. At Mad & Kaffe, guests get to choose three, five, or seven items off the menu, making it a tapas-style Nordic tasting. Be sure to try the homemade cream cheese with sourdough bread and classic Danish rice pudding with cherry sauce.
5. Hang Out in Freetown Christiania
Freetown Christiania is a care-free neighborhood in Copenhagen, best known for its autonomous locals' different way of life. Originally established in 1971 by a group of hippies completely independent of the Danish government, Christiania continues to welcome tourists, offering homemade houses, art galleries, cheap and organic eateries, and beautiful nature.
6. Spend a Night at Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is a magical amusement park in central Copenhagen that offers rides, games, restaurants, and tons of musical entertainment. With over 850 trees in Tivoli Gardens, all of them are lit up over the holidays. Both old and young will love this park, making it the perfect activity for a night in Copenhagen.
7. Eat a Danish Hot Dog
The classic Danish hot dog (or polsevogn) has fun toppings like apple ketchup and crispy fried onions. These delicious and unique hot dogs are sold at little kiosks throughout the streets in Denmark.
8. Learn About Danish History
Denmark's largest museum of cultural history is the National Museum of Denmark and is even interesting for travelers who don't typically favor museums. It's home to the Danish Music Museum, The Royal Danish Arsenal Museum, and The Froslev Camp Museum — a WW2 prisoner of war camp.
9. Ride a Bike Throughout the City
Copenhagen is world-famous for its biking culture and is covered with designated bike lanes, making it easy and safe to ride around the city. Some of Denmark's most beautiful castles, beaches, and fjords lie within 30 miles of Copenhagen, which is great news for those who love to explore on two wheels.
10. Visit Papiroen (Paper Island)
Paper Island, located in the Copenhagen Harbor, offers various creative buildings with everything from art to showrooms and street food. The Copenhagen Street Food market on Paper Island serves up food from all over the world and waterfront views.
