Copenhagen Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics:
Q: Is Copenhagen expensive? A: Yes, generally Copenhagen is considered an expensive city. Be prepared for higher prices for accommodation, food, and drinks compared to many other European cities.
Q: How can I save money on a trip to Copenhagen? A: Cook some meals at your accommodation (groceries are cheaper than restaurants), look for street food markets (like Reffen or Broens Gadekøkken), utilize public transport passes, and consider free activities like walking tours or visiting parks.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Copenhagen? A: Summer (June, July, August) is highly recommended for its long, sunny days and lively atmosphere, though it can be busy. May is also a favorite for its public holidays and pleasant weather.
Q: How many days do I need in Copenhagen? A: Many travelers suggest 3-5 days for the main city sights, with additional days if you plan day trips.
Q: Do I need a Copenhagen Card? A: It depends on your itinerary. If you plan to visit many museums and attractions and use public transport frequently, it can be a good deal. Otherwise, individual tickets or standard transit passes might be more cost-effective.
Q: What currency is used in Denmark? A: Danish Krone (DKK).
Q: Is cash necessary in Copenhagen? A: Not really. Most places accept card payments.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Copenhagen? A: Cycling is highly recommended and a quintessential Copenhagen experience. Otherwise, the public transport system (metro, S-trains, buses, harbor buses) is excellent.
Q: How do I get from the airport to the city center? A: The metro and direct train both take about 15 minutes and require the same tickets.
Q: Are there any tourist scams to be aware of? A: Be cautious of people approaching you with unusual requests (e.g., asking for help buying specific items, or leading you to secluded areas). Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas.
Q: Is Copenhagen safe for solo female travelers? A: Generally, yes, Copenhagen is considered a very safe city.
Q: How can I find good accommodation on a budget? A: Hostels are a popular choice. Look for places slightly outside the absolute city center but still well-connected by public transport.
Q: What’s the language spoken? Will English be sufficient? A: Danish is the official language, but almost everyone, especially in tourist areas, speaks excellent English.
Must-See Attractions & Activities:
Q: What are the absolute must-see attractions? A: Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens (if open), Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace (for the changing of the guard), Strøget (shopping street), and a canal tour.
Q: Is Tivoli Gardens worth it? A: Most travelers say yes, especially in the evening. It’s a unique amusement park and garden, good for rides, atmosphere, or just a stroll.
Q: Should I visit the Little Mermaid statue? A: Opinions vary. Many find it “anticlimactic” or “underwhelming” in size, but it’s a famous landmark and the surrounding park (Kastellet) is lovely for a walk.
Q: What’s the best way to do a canal tour? A: There are two main operators (Stromma and Netto-Bådene; Netto-Bådene is often cheaper). Hey Captain offers smaller tours, and GoBoat allows self-rental. Harbour buses are a cheaper alternative that covers a similar route.
Q: Is Christianshavn worth exploring? A: Yes, it’s a charming area with canals, and home to Freetown Christiania.
Q: What is Freetown Christiania? Should I go? A: It’s a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood known for its unique culture and history with cannabis trade (though the main “Pusher Street” has recently been dismantled by locals). It’s a fascinating area to walk through, but be respectful of the local rules and residents.
Q: What’s there to see at Amalienborg Palace? A: The royal family’s residence. The changing of the guard at 12:00 daily is a popular event. You can also view the Marble Church and Opera House from the courtyard.
Q: Is Strøget just a shopping street? A: While known for shopping, it also cuts through the medieval city center, with varying atmospheres along its length.
Q: What about the Round Tower (Rundetaarn)? A: It offers panoramic views of the city. Worth the climb for the unique spiral ramp inside.
Q: Any good museums to visit? A: Designmuseum Danmark, National Museum of Denmark, Glyptoteket (Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek), Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark), Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (a popular day trip).
Q: Where can I see traditional Danish architecture? A: Nyhavn, Christianshavn, and walking through the historic city center will offer many examples.
Q: Are there good parks or green spaces? A: King’s Garden (Kongens Have) by Rosenborg Castle, Frederiksberg Gardens, and Dyrehaven (just north of Copenhagen) are all highly recommended.
Food & Drink:
Q: What Danish foods should I try? A: Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), Pølser (hot dogs, often from street stands), pastries (especially Danish pastries, “wienerbrød”), and craft beer.
Q: Where can I get good smørrebrød? A: Selma and Restaurant Schoennemann are often mentioned for quality smørrebrød.
Q: Any recommendations for street food? A: Reffen and Broens Gadekøkken are very popular street food markets with a wide variety of international and local options.
Q: Where can I find good and affordable food? A: Street food markets, pølsevogne (hot dog stands), and communal dining places like Folkehuset Absalon or Send Flere Krydderier are budget-friendly options. Supermarkets are also great for self-catering.
Q: Are there good bakeries? A: Yes, Copenhagen has excellent bakeries. Juno, La Glace, Skt. Peders Bageri, and Hart Bageri are often recommended.
Q: What about fine dining/Michelin-starred restaurants? A: Copenhagen is famous for its high-end dining scene (Noma, Geranium, Alchemist), but be prepared for very high prices and advance reservations. There are also many Michelin-recommended restaurants in a lower price range (e.g., Formel B, Jatak).
Q: Where can I get good coffee? A: Coffee Collective is a popular and highly-regarded chain.
Q: Any specific bar recommendations? A: For craft beer: Fermentoren, Taphouse, Mikkeller & Friends, Warpigs. For traditional/historic bars: Hviids Vinstue, Skindbuksen, Bo-Bi Bar. For a unique vibe: Absalon (communal dinner/bar).
Q: What’s the nightlife like? A: Copenhagen has a diverse nightlife. Areas around Gothersgade and the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) are popular for clubs and bars. There are also many cozy pubs and cocktail bars.
Q: Are there places for live music? A: Loppen in Christiania is known for live jazz and other genres. Café Intime has live music.
Q: Any good Italian food? A: La Fiorita for pizza and lasagna. Calma on Jægersborggade for high-quality Italian.
Q: Where can I get good burgers? A: Gasoline Grill is famous, but some travelers suggest Dandelion or Tommy’s as alternatives. POPL is also mentioned.
Q: Recommendations for Asian food? A: Saji for Indonesian, Ranee’s for Thai (Blågårds Plads), and various eateries on Blågårdsgade.
Q: What about vegetarian/vegan options? A: Copenhagen is generally good for vegetarian and vegan options, especially at street food markets and modern restaurants.
Q: Is it okay to drink tap water? A: Yes, Danish tap water is safe and delicious to drink.
Day Trips from Copenhagen:
Q: What are the best day trips from Copenhagen? A: Roskilde (Cathedral, Viking Ship Museum), Helsingør (Kronborg Castle, Maritime Museum), Hillerød (Frederiksborg Palace), and Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Q: Can I combine Roskilde and Helsingør in one day? A: It’s ambitious but possible with good planning and early starts.
Q: How do I get to Roskilde? A: Easily reachable by train (approx. 25 minutes).
Q: What’s special about Roskilde Cathedral? A: It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the traditional burial site of Danish monarchs.
Q: What’s at the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde? A: A collection of excavated Viking ships and demonstrations of traditional boat-building techniques.
Q: How do I get to Helsingør? A: Take the S-train to Hillerød, then a local train, or the coastal line (Kystbanen) to Helsingør.
Q: Why visit Kronborg Castle? A: It’s famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet and offers beautiful views of the Øresund.
Q: Is Louisiana Museum of Modern Art worth the trip? A: Highly recommended by many for its stunning location, architecture, and art collection.
Q: Can I visit Malmö (Sweden) as a day trip? A: Yes, trains run frequently (about 40 minutes). Remember to bring your passport for border control.
Q: Is Aarhus worth a day trip from Copenhagen? A: Some travelers say it’s too far for a day trip (6 hours round trip commuting). Others recommend it for “Den Gamle By” (Old Town open-air museum) and the AROS art museum if you book a fast train.
Q: What about Dyrehaven? A: Old royal hunting grounds with beautiful landscapes and many deer, easily reachable by S-train.
Q: Any nature-focused day trips? A: Dyrehaven, hiking around the lakes north of Copenhagen (Bagsværd Sø, Lyngby Sø, Furesø), or visiting Troldeskoven (a pine forest).
Q: Where can I go swimming near Copenhagen in summer? A: The harbor baths in Copenhagen itself, or beaches on the north coast like Gilleleje and Hornbæk.
Cultural & Local Insights:
Q: Are Danes generally friendly? A: Travelers often describe Danes as reserved and polite, rather than overly effusive or chatty with strangers. They mind their own business, which can be perceived as “cold” by some, but they are generally kind and helpful if approached.
Q: What’s “Hygge”? A: A Danish concept of coziness, comfort, and well-being, often involving candles, good company, and warm drinks.
Q: Is cycling truly the best way to experience the city? A: Many locals and tourists agree. It’s flat, bike lanes are abundant, and it allows for flexible exploration.
Q: What’s the tipping etiquette in Copenhagen? A: Tipping is not expected as service charges are usually included, but rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
Q: How late does the sun set in summer? A: Very late! In June, sunset can be around 10 PM.
Q: Are there any local markets besides food markets? A: There might be flea markets or seasonal markets, but they are less consistently mentioned than the food halls.
Q: What’s the vibe of Nørrebro? A: A vibrant, diverse neighborhood known for its cafes, shops, and lively atmosphere. Good for walking and exploring.
Q: What’s the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) like? A: A former industrial area that has transformed into a trendy spot with restaurants, bars, and clubs, especially lively at night.
Q: Is there a good place to watch sports? A: Southern Cross Pub is recommended for watching sports.
Q: Any unique cultural experiences? A: Communal dining at places like Absalon, or attending a free concert (e.g., Byhaven at Pumpehuset in summer).
Q: What’s a “bodega”? A: A traditional Danish pub, often with a smoky, cozy, and no-frills atmosphere.
Q: Are there any interesting cemeteries to visit? A: Assistens Cemetery (where Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard are buried) and Vestre Kirkegård are mentioned as good for walks.
Q: What about the Royal Danish Theatre? A: Located in Kongens Nytorv, it’s a beautiful building and hosts various performances.
Q: Any insights on Danish design? A: The Designmuseum Danmark is an excellent place to explore Danish design history. Many shops also showcase modern Danish design.
Family Travel Specifics:
Q: Is Copenhagen family-friendly? A: Generally yes, with good infrastructure (bike lanes, ramps) and parks. However, some travelers have noted that Danish people can be reserved, and some finer restaurants might not be as welcoming to noisy children.
Q: Do I need reservations for restaurants with kids? A: Rarely necessary for cafes or casual, family-friendly restaurants. More so for proper dinner restaurants, especially on weekends. Danes tend to eat dinner relatively early.
Q: Are kids welcomed in most places? A: Yes, within reason. Be mindful of noise and mess, and be prepared to take a crying baby outside.
Q: Where can kids play? A: Skydebaneparken (often busy), Blegdamsremisen (good for rainy days), Trafiklegepladsen (traffic playground), and the Botanical Garden greenhouses.
Q: What about grocery stores for families with kitchens? A: Supermarkets are widely available. Farmer’s markets are less common than in some other countries, but Torvehallerne is popular for fresh produce.
Q: Are there places to get specific kid-friendly foods (like rice/noodles/tortillas)? A: Plenty of Asian food options, and supermarkets carry taco kits.
Q: Are car seats needed for taxis/rideshares with kids? A: This isn’t explicitly addressed, but generally, local taxi regulations may require them for younger children. It’s best to check with the specific taxi company.
Q: Are there family passes for attractions or transport? A: The Copenhagen Card includes free public transport and entry to most attractions. Children under 16 can get half-price tickets, and adults can bring two children aged 0-11 for free on public transport.
Solo Travel Specifics:
Q: Is Copenhagen good for solo travelers? A: Yes, it’s often cited as an excellent city for solo travel due to its safety, walkability, and ease of navigation.
Q: How easy is it to meet people when traveling solo? A: Hostels are a good way to meet other travelers. Communal dinners (like Absalon) can also be a way to connect. Danes might not initiate conversations, but are friendly if you do.
Q: Any specific activities for solo travelers? A: Bike tours, walking tours, spending time in museums (like the Designmuseum Danmark), enjoying the atmosphere at Tivoli, or people-watching at Nyhavn.
Q: Are there restaurants that accommodate solo diners? A: Most casual restaurants and cafes are fine. Some fancier restaurants might not offer solo seating, especially in the evening, so consider going for lunch or exploring more informal options.
Q: What are good areas to stay for solo travelers? A: Areas with good public transport links and nearby cafes/bars are usually good. The Meatpacking District is lively for nightlife.
Practical Tips & Advice:
Q: What apps are useful for getting around? A: Google Maps or Rejseplanen for route planning. DOT Tickets app for purchasing single or multi-day public transport tickets. DSB app for “check in/check out” tickets.
Q: What should I pack? A: Comfortable walking shoes, layers (even in summer, weather can change), a waterproof jacket (light showers can occur), and summer wear.
Q: Are public restrooms easily available? A: Generally, yes, in museums, major attractions, and cafes/restaurants (often for customers).
Q: Is Copenhagen accessible for people with mobility issues? A: The city is relatively flat and has good infrastructure (ramps, wide sidewalks). Public transport is generally accessible, but it’s always good to check specific station accessibility.
Q: What’s the best way to get a local experience? A: Rent a bike, explore neighborhoods like Nørrebro or Vesterbro, visit local bodegas, and try communal dining experiences.
Q: Are there any free things to do? A: Walking around neighborhoods, visiting parks (King’s Garden, Dyrehaven), window shopping on Strøget, seeing the changing of the guard, and some museums may have free entry on certain days (check schedules).
Q: What’s the Danish attitude towards sustainability? A: Denmark is very environmentally conscious, and Copenhagen is known for its green initiatives, excellent public transport, and emphasis on cycling.
Q: How do Danes typically dress? A: Generally casual but stylish. Comfort is key, especially if you plan to walk or bike a lot.
Q: Is Copenhagen very touristy? A: Yes, especially in summer, the main attractions can be crowded. However, it’s easy to find quieter, more local areas by venturing slightly off the main tourist paths.
Q: Should I book attractions in advance? A: For popular attractions like Tivoli, or high-demand restaurants, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.
Q: What if I encounter an emergency? A: The emergency number in Denmark is 112.
Q: Are there any specific cultural norms I should be aware of? A: Punctuality is generally valued. Danes tend to be direct in communication. Give personal space.
Q: What’s the deal with “Christiania weed” and recent changes? A: While Christiania historically had an open cannabis trade (“Pusher Street”), locals recently dismantled it to reduce organized crime. While the area retains its unique character, the open drug market is no longer as prominent.
Q: Can I bring my bike on public transport? A: Bikes are generally allowed, but may require a bicycle ticket on the metro and regional trains, and are restricted during rush hour on the metro. They are free on S-trains, buses, and ferries.
Q: Are there any interesting places outside the city center but still within Copenhagen’s reach? A: Valbyparken and Tippen for green spaces, or Dragør (a charming old village south of the airport).
Q: What’s a good place for a quiet drink? A: Library Bar is a favorite for a cozy drink, especially in colder months.
Q: How is Copenhagen for design enthusiasts? A: Excellent! Besides the Designmuseum, there are many design shops, and the city itself showcases impressive modern and historic architecture.
Q: Any specific tips for crossing the bridge to Sweden (Malmö/Lund)? A: Remember your passport for border control. Tickets can be bought from DSB machines or the Skånetrafiken app (often cheaper).
Q: What’s an “open-air museum”? A: A museum where historic buildings have been moved and reassembled to create a village or town, often with actors portraying historical life (e.g., Den Gamle By in Aarhus, or Frilandsmuseet near Copenhagen).
Q: What’s a general piece of advice for a first-time visitor? A: Embrace the concept of “hygge,” rent a bike if you’re comfortable, and be open to exploring beyond the major tourist spots to experience the true charm of Copenhagen.