Idea

Even with just three days in Copenhagen, you can fully experience the city’s history, design, and nearby castles. Use the metro, S-tog trains, and bikes to get around the city, and take day trips to the suburbs. The per-person budget (excluding international flights) is about $350–$495.

Day 1: History and Harbor Route

Morning: Start at the colorful wooden houses of Nyhavn, walk to Kongens Nytorv, then head to Amalienborg Palace. Around 12 noon, watch the changing of the guard at the square (free, arrive about 10 minutes early to get a good spot).

Afternoon: Walk along the Langelinie Park to see The Little Mermaid statue and Gefion Fountain. The sea breeze can be strong, so bring a jacket. Take a break at a park café if needed.

Evening: Take a canal boat tour to view the city from the water (about 1 hour, ticket price around 100–150 DKK). Then have dinner around Nyhavn—open-faced sandwiches and seafood are local specialties.

Day 2: Design and Shopping Route

Morning: Visit Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square), shop along Strøget, then go up the Rundetårn tower for views over the old town (ticket around 40 DKK).

Afternoon: Tour Rosenborg Castle to see the crown jewels and the King’s Garden (ticket around 120 DKK, combo tickets available). Have lunch at Torvehallerne Market, with average cost around 100–180 DKK per person.

Evening: Head to Tivoli Gardens and enjoy the illuminated night atmosphere. Food inside the park is pricey, so eat out first. On rainy days, consider visiting the National Museum of Denmark or the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek instead.

Day 3: Museums and Suburbs

Option 1: Head north to Helsingør to visit Kronborg Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site and setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, about 45 minutes by train), then stop by Louisiana Museum of Modern Art to enjoy the art collection and sea views.

Option 2: Go to Hillerød to see Frederiksborg Castle (about 40 minutes by train), or visit Dyrehaven (Deer Park) and Bakken Amusement Park for a taste of old-time fun. Return to the city in the evening.

Booking Tips: Tickets for Kronborg Castle, Frederiksborg Castle, and Louisiana can be purchased online. Book in advance during peak season. Use the DOT app or transportation card to buy tickets for suburban trains based on zones.

Tips

• Copenhagen’s metro and S-tog cover most major attractions. Use the DOT app or transportation card to buy tickets—fare evasion fines are steep.
• Biking is the best way to explore Copenhagen. You can rent shared bikes to ride around the city. Remember to ride on the right and yield to pedestrians.
• For popular museums and Tivoli, book tickets online in advance during peak season to avoid long lines.
• Denmark has relatively high prices. Look for lunch deals or cook your own meals using supermarkets to manage costs.
• Summer sunsets are late, so plan outdoor activities for the evening to make the most of the daylight.