How to Spend THREE Days in Copenhagen: 3-Day Itinerary

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Ready to experience the best of Copenhagen in just three days? Well, you’ve come to the right blog!

After multiple trips to the scenic city of Copenhagen, we’ve crafted the ideal itinerary for a three-day stay. From picturesque canals and colorful harbors to historic castles, this itinerary will guide you through the city’s must-see sights without missing a beat. So whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a culture lover looking to soak up the local hygge vibe, this three-day plan has you covered. 

Plus, with insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and relax, you’ll get a taste of the city like a true Copenhagener. Let’s dive in and start planning your perfect Copenhagen getaway!

Day 1

Breakfast – Ø12 Coffee and Eatery

We’re eating breakfast like a local this morning at Ø12 Coffee and Eatery! It’s a popular spot, so aim to get there for 8:30 or 9 am, depending on which tour time you use. You may have to wait a little while, but the food here is so worth it. 

The dishes at Ø12 look absolutely incredible, but they taste even better, especially the eggs Benedict and avocado toast! There are also lots of vegan and vegetarian options available, and they do really yummy smoothies and juices, too. I promise that this place will set you up perfectly for a day of exploring Copenhagen!

Morning – Explore Copenhagen on a private walking tour

This private walking tour of Copenhagen is the perfect introduction to the city, so that’s how we’re going to spend this morning! There are multiple timings available for this tour, but we suggest booking it for either 10 am or 10:30 am to ensure that you have plenty of time for breakfast beforehand.

We absolutely loved being able to take this tour at our own pace and customize it to our interests. We got to see the famous Nyhavn District and snap photos of the iconic harborfront, experience Stroget shopping street, and see famous buildings like the Danish Royal Theatre.

We also loved how the tour blended Copenhagen’s rich history with its modern energy. Whether we were standing in a centuries-old square or strolling past cozy cafés, it felt like we were experiencing both sides of the city at once.

This tour was an awesome way to get a feel for Copenhagen’s unique character and see some of its most scenic areas. 

Our guide, Jack, also showed us some hidden gems and gave us some fantastic recommendations for where to eat and drink in Copenhagen, which certainly came in handy during the rest of our trip. Honestly, I am not at all surprised that it has over 3,500 5-star reviews!

Book this private walking tour of Copenhagen here, with FREE cancellation

Lunch/Afternoon – Try traditional Danish foods on a food tour! 

Instead of a sit-down lunch at a restaurant today, we’re going to carry on exploring with this top-rated food tour and kill two birds with one stone! Aim to book the 2:30 pm option, and we suggest booking the 10-tasting option because you might as well try as much Danish food as possible while you’re here, right?

You can either take a taxi to the meeting point or hop on the metro at Marmorkirken Station and take the M3 or M4 to Rådhuspladsen. All in all, it should only take you 12 minutes to get from the ending point of the walking tour to the meeting point for the food tour. Then, the experience lasts for 2–3 hours, so you’ll finish between 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm, ready to unwind in the evening. 

When we did this tour, we got to try lots of delicious foods, including Danish meatballs, smørrebrød sandwiches, fishcakes, and the best hot dogs ever! Our guide, Grazi,  also explained the social and historical contexts of these different foods, so we got to learn a ton about Danish culture as we chowed down.

We loved that we got to do this tour by ourselves and tailor it to our preferences. We got to eat the foods that we most wanted to try and take the tour at our own pace. It was so much fun, and easily one of the best things that we have ever done in Copenhagen.

Do book it at least a few days in advance, though, because it’s a reputable tour that tends to sell out!

Check availability and book your private food tour of Copenhagen here!

Evening – Toast to your first day in Nyhavn 

After a day packed with exploring and tasting your way through Copenhagen, it’s time to wind down in one of the city’s most iconic spots: Nyhavn! This is Denmark’s famous colorful harborfront, so what better place to raise a glass to a great first day in the city? There are plenty of fun bars here, but here are our two favorite spots to check out:

Nebbiolo Winebar

What better way to drink like a local than in a hidden wine bar? Nebbiolo Winebar is a cozy and intimate spot that specializes in natural and classic wines, with a strong focus on (yep, you guessed it) Nebbiolo grapes. If you’re looking for an elegant place to end your first day, this is it!

Café Mønten 

If you’re craving something more laid-back, Café Mønten is the place! It’s a warm and unpretentious spot that’s full of old-school charm. It’s one of the most affordable spots in the expensive Nyhavn area, and they have a huge range of beers on tap. We love eating here, too, as they serve up very generous portions of Danish comfort food. 

Day 2 

Breakfast – Original Coffee Bredgade

Start your second day in Copenhagen with a cozy breakfast at Original Coffee Bredgade. This charming café is known for its exceptional coffee and laid-back atmosphere, making it the ideal spot to ease into the day. Aim to arrive around 8 am to give yourself enough time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast before the next stop on the itinerary, which is just a 12-minute walk away. We’ll be having a light lunch today, so don’t hesitate to tuck in!

Morning – Explore The King’s Garden and Rosenborg Castle

After breakfast, head over to The King’s Garden and Rosenborg Castle, where you can stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and step back in time with a visit to the 17th-century castle. We suggest booking tickets in advance. Choose the 10 am entry slot if it’s still available, and the closest one possible if not!

You’ll need between 1.5 and 2 hours to explore both the gardens and the castle without feeling rushed. Once you’re done, hop in a taxi to our lunch spot, which is just a 6-minute drive away!

Lunch – Farumhus 

There’s not quite enough time for a sit-down meal before the next tour starts, so grab a quick lunch from Farumhus instead! This place does the most amazing cinnamon buns and bagel sandwiches, so make sure you try one of those, and they make amazing chai lattes, too. Then, the tour meeting point is just a 6-minute walk away.

Afternoon – Go cruising on the canal 

Copenhagen is famous for its harbors and canals, so we think that this canal cruise is one of the best ways to see the city! Plus, it’s so relaxing because all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the views! 

The boat sets sail at 1 pm, and you’ll wrap up at around 4 pm. Over the course of 3 hours, you’ll take in the beauty of Copenhagen and hear lots of fun stories about the city.

When we did this tour, we absolutely loved listening to the commentary from our onboard guide, Sillas, which was very engaging. He also encouraged the group to get to know one another, so the tour ended up being a great way to meet some new people! 

As well as learning about the city’s 850-year history, we got to see major sights such as Trekroner Fort, the Little Mermaid, and the famous Nyhavn harbor front. We also loved the fact that there were drinks available for purchase on board, as it made the tour even more of a good time! 

As far as we’re concerned, this tour is absolutely perfect for a short trip to the city as it’s a really efficient way to sightsee, and it’s a ton of fun! Just make sure to book it before it sells out because it’s very popular. 

Check out over 1,000 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Late Afternoon – A little more exploration 

After the cruise finishes, you’ll have a little more time to explore before dinner. But if you’re hungry, you can always skip ahead and eat now if you’d like! 

But if you’re not ready for a big meal just yet, then this is a good opportunity to visit some spots that we haven’t yet explored. You can visit one or both of the spots below, depending on what you prefer. It’s your trip, after all! 

Visit Frederik’s Church

We saw the exterior of Frederik’s Church on yesterday’s walking tour, but didn’t get the chance to go inside. If you’d like to, it’s just a 10-minute walk from the end of the walking tour. It shuts at 5 pm, so you should have just enough time to go in and explore before it closes. The advantage of this is that it will be nice and quiet!

This is a great stop for the history buffs among us! Also known as “the Marble Church”, it was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and it boasts one of the largest domes in Scandinavia. It took over a hundred years to complete due to financial struggles and political conflicts, so it’s just as well that it turned out to be so beautiful.

Wander to scenic Kastellet and The Little Mermaid

If the weather’s nice, then we always love to take advantage of the soft evening light and head to Kastellet. This is a historic star-shaped fortress that’s surrounded by leafy paths and moats. It’s super scenic and a great place for photographers to snap away! 

As you explore Kastellet, it will naturally lead you to the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Now, I say “iconic,” but this statue is famous for the wrong reasons. It was ranked as the second most disappointing landmark in Europe! Ironically, it’s this very reputation that makes it a must-see! 

Dinner – Basso

Today was a pretty long day, so what better way to wrap it up than with a 10 or 13-course dinner at Basso? This is a social dining spot that does amazing set menu dinners that mix traditional Danish dishes with modern favorites like seafood, risotto, and tapas. Dining here is a whole experience in itself! 

We’ve come back here time and time again, not just because of the fantastic food, but because of the amazing service, too. The staff are so attentive and they always suggest the perfect wine pairings to complement each course. Just make sure to make a reservation here because it’s popular!

Evening – Your Choice

The weather is pretty variable in Copenhagen, so we decided to give you a few options for unwinding after your second day in the city. Either way, you’re in for a great evening! 

Take an Evening Walk Along The Lakes

If the weather’s pleasant, then a stroll along The Lakes is the perfect way to end the evening. This is such a lovely area of the city, and locals love to hang out here. We love strolling around here with a drink in hand, and if you get peckish, then stop for a creamy gelato at Isoteket! Or if your energy levels are lagging a little, you can grab a coffee from Original Coffee.

Listen to Live Music at Drop Inn

If the weather isn’t playing ball, no worries! Head to Drop Inn instead, which is a lively bar that has live music most nights of the week. It’s super laid back and there’s a really welcoming atmosphere, so it’s one of our favorite places in the city to grab a drink and blow off some steam. Check their website to see what’s on and settle in for some local tunes!

Related Read: Heading to Sweden next? Don’t miss our list of the best things to do in Stockholm—it’s packed with fun ideas, scenic spots, and must-try experiences just a train or short flight away!

Day 3 

Morning/Afternoon – Visit the Hamlet Castle and Sweden on a day trip

Shakespeare’s Hamlet was famously set in Denmark, so you can’t pass up the chance to visit Elsinore Castle, which inspired the tragic prince’s castle in the play. And by far the easiest (and most fun) way to do that is on this full-day tour! This way, you don’t need to hire a driver, and all of the arrangements are taken care of for you. 

The tour begins at 9:30 am, and you can either choose a meeting point close to you or request pickup if you’re staying centrally. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your passport with you because we’ll be crossing the border over into Sweden—how cool is that?

One thing that we loved about the tour was that there was a lot of free time. We had the choice between going inside the Hamlet Castle or just exploring the grounds, but of course, we wanted to check out the inside! We also explored the city’s Culture Yard and St. Olaf’s Church, and got a nice overview of this lovely port city. 

Then, we hopped back onto the tour bus and went over the Oresund Bridge into Sweden. I loved crossing this bridge because there was nothing but the ocean on each side! Then, we had free time to explore Malmö, especially the storybook-worthy Lilla Torg Square, and walk along the water in Old Town.

We loved soaking up all of the Scandinavian culture and history. This tour lasts for about 9 hours, so it’s a safe bet that you’ll wrap up around 6:30 pm, ready for a delicious final dinner.

Don’t miss out on this castle tour—book your spot here to see it for yourself!

Dinner – Restaurant Tight

Of course, the only way to send off a trip to Copenhagen is with some hearty European fare, so book a table at Restaurant Tight. It’s an 8-minute taxi or metro ride to get there from the ending point of the tour, so we suggest booking a table for around 7 pm. 

This spot is modern but cozy, and the food here just warms you up from the inside out! We love the pork ribs, as they’re tender and perfectly seasoned, or the lobster bisque is just delicious. The staff are also really friendly and always take great care of us!

Evening – Toast to a great trip

It’s been a long and busy, but fun, few days, so now’s the time to unwind. If you have a little more energy to expend before heading back to the hotel, make a beeline for Citizen Cocktail Bar to enjoy a final drink. 

This is a super chic venue that serves craft cocktails with a great atmosphere to boot. I highly recommend trying one of their signature drinks, such as the “Don’t Kill Kenny” cocktail. But if you’re not sure what to order, just have a chat with one of the friendly staff members, who will help you find the perfect drink. Cheers! 

Related Read: Want even more ideas to fill your trip? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen here for extra activities, hidden gems, and foodie spots you won’t want to miss!

Where to Stay in Copenhagen, Denmark

Now that you’ve planned the ideal Copenhagen itinerary, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodations in the city, so whether you’re looking for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay, we’ve got you covered! 

If any of these accommodations still have availability, these are our top recommendations!

Luxury – $$$

Villa Copenhagen is a luxury stay located in Central Copenhagen. The hotel itself is stunning, with historic architecture and modern design, and the rooms make for an ideal stay. You can book deluxe double rooms, all the way up to suite-style rooms, and enjoy the restaurant, terrace, and pool. 

Rooms range from €300 to €700, depending on the room category you choose. You can reserve your stay over at Booking.com!

Mid-range – $$

If you’re looking for an elegant hotel that won’t break the bank, Grand Joanne is your spot! The cozy rooms here range from queen rooms to full suites, and the location couldn’t be better. It’s just meters from Copenhagen station and the Tivoli Gardens! Plus, there’s a rooftop bar and terrace that’s ideal during the summer. 

Rooms start around €160 and go up to around €400. You can check prices and book your stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Copenhagen Go Hotel offers shared hostel dorms or private rooms. It’s clean, comfortable, and has great shared spaces. Located only minutes from the airport and the train station, you can quickly get into central Copenhagen. 

Rooms here typically cost between €70 and €150 per night. You can also reserve entire private dorms for big groups! 

Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

For even more options, check out all the hotels in Copenhagen here!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

There’s so much to love about Copenhagen, and we hope this three-day itinerary helps you make the most of your visit! After several trips, we really feel like this plan highlights the very best of the city, from historic landmarks and canal cruises to hidden gems and amazing food.

And if Copenhagen is just one stop on your European adventure (lucky you!), don’t miss our other Europe blogs for more travel inspiration. We’ve also linked a few of our favorites below to help you plan your next unforgettable stop!

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Where to Stay in Amsterdam, Netherlands: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

8 Best Things to do in Warsaw, Poland