November 2024.
On our trek to explore more of Europe, we took a short late fall trip to Copenhagen. Some of our Fall/Winter travels are dictated by the airlines that serve the Faro Airport. Many have reduced direct route service outside the peak summer travel months. Some destinations are not served at all, while others have reduced schedules to one or two flights per week. We can always connect through other airports or fly out of Lisbon or Sevilla, which can add significant time and hassle to shorter trips. So, we choose to schedule our travels during this time of year to those areas served directly, especially for shorter trips. For example, flights from Faro to Copenhagen only happen on Thursday or Monday. So, excluding travel days, we chose to spend three full days in Copenhagen on our first trip there. Since it's so close, we can always go back and explore more.
Check out recommendations for your trip at the end of this post.
A short 3:50 flight from Faro to Copenhagen, delayed at departure, got us into Copenhagen and our hotel around 2:00 in the morning. It was much colder than we are used to in the Algarve, about 0-10 celsius during our stay, a little light snow on day one, sun and clouds on day two, and morning rain on day three. We had to dig deep into our wardrobe to find layers, jackets, gloves, etc., to keep us warm. It was nice to experience the change in weather, although we were glad to get back to the 20-degree Celsius weather at home.
We enjoyed Copenhagen, its great people, culture, and food. The history, sites, and monuments were nice but centered mostly around the Royal Family and their wealth. We've become a bit jaded by the history of wealth and excess displayed by the churches and those who held/hold power. On the next trip, we would also add some day trips to explore the surrounding areas in Norway and Sweden.
We stayed at the Grand Joanne Hotel near the heart of the city, within 5 minutes walking distance to Tivoli Gardens, the Train station, and Metro. 20-30-minute walk to Nyhavn, Palaces, and Strøget, but certainly within reach. The Metro is a convenient option to get you closer to the center. The hotel is modern and clean, and the staff was friendly and helpful. Our room has no closet, only a small rack and shelf—part of the design, I presume, but a little inconvenient for placing suitcases and hanging clothes.
On our first morning, we took a walking tour of the city. We like to do these tours on the first day to get an overview of the area, sights, and recommendations from the guide. This one, led by a local guide, was the "Grand Tour of Copenhagen" to learn about Copenhagen's history, culture, and architecture through Copenhagen Free Walking Tours. Starting on the steps of Rådhuspladsen (City Hall square), the tour was about 3 hours. We like the "Free Tour" concept, which is not free, but you are asked to pay what you feel is fair at the end of the tour.
Tivoli Gardens is one of the must-see destinations in Copenhagen. Although our short trip didn't allow us to visit, we could peek inside during the few times we walked by.
This famous amusement park, which opened in 1843, combines manicured gardens and whimsical roller coasters in central Copenhagen. It has been attracting visitors since it opened in 1843, making it the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. At night, thousands of twinkling lights give it a fairytale feel that inspired Local writer Hans Christian Andersen and Mr. Disney himself. The park is home to Rutschebanen, one of the world's oldest operating wooden roller coasters, several restaurants, and a food hall.
Christiansborg Palace, Once the home to kings and queens, now hosts various Royal Family functions and events. The Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State occupy most buildings today. You can tour a few of the spaces here: the gilded Royal Reception Rooms, the Tower, and the Oval Throne Room, where The Royal Couple receives foreign ambassadors to Denmark. The Royal Stables are housed here, and you can frequently observe the horses exercising in the large circle in front of the Palace.
Amalienborg Palace, Home to the Royals when they are in town, consists of four separate palaces. The King, his Queen, and four Children occupy one of the four palaces, while his Mother, the abdicated Queen, occasionally occupies another. You can tell when they are in residence by the flag on top of each building; if the flag is up, the royals are there. The third Palace is for public tours, the annual royal New Year's reception and banquet, and houses the Amalienborg Museum. The fourth Palace is a guest residence for Prince Joachim and his family, as well as Princess Benedikte when they visit.
It was fun to watch the changing of the guard's ceremony.
Nyhavn is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen, and it is probably the image everyone has of Copenhagen. Beautiful and inviting, but be prepared for large crowds and "tourist quality" shops and restaurants.
It's hard to walk through central Copenhagen without crossing the busy pedestrian shopping streets of Strøget and others. At times, it is very crowded with tourists and locals strolling through the area and enjoying the shops and Christmas decor
Several Christmas Markets appear throughout the city for the holidays. They are much smaller than others in Europe but are centrally located in town squares and frequented by locals and tourists alike. You'll find mostly locally made crafts and Christmas decor, Food stalls, and Glogg (Danish mulled wine), the holiday beverage that you'll find in every market, restaurant, and bar, each proclaiming that their version is the best.
Skt. Peders Bageri has some of the best Danish buns and almond croissants around, and it's worth the short wait in line to get yours.
An afternoon Canal boat tour with Hey Captain on a small boat touring the main canals. We opted for the shorter tour of one hour and were glad we did, as it was freezing out on the water. Nice to see the sights from this angle, but maybe when it is warmer
Random scenes around Copenhagen.
Several ice rinks sprout up around the city during winter and are enjoyed by the locals.
We found a book on Hygge ("hooga"), the word used by the Danish to capture a way of life. As challenging to explain as it is to pronounce, Hygge is basically about taking time away from the daily rush to be together with people you care about - or even by yourself - to relax and enjoy life's quieter pleasures.
Torvehallerne: Just about every large European city has a similar market/food hall, but this one is well done and worth a visit. It is a great place to go if you are hungry, need fresh produce, or are looking for local flavor. A wide variety of foods can be found, from Pastries to international and local cuisine: local beer, fresh juices, and wines from around the world. We chose Il Mattarello for Pasta (Just OK) and Hija de Sanchez for the Tacos and handmade tortillas (Very Good).
One Danish specialty you'll find in restaurants and shops all over town is Smørrebrød (smuhr-broht). Lined up in café windows or served in specialty restaurants, they are traditionally piled high with pickled herring, spoonfuls of sharp horseradish cream, or mounds of fresh shrimp. These days, you'll find just about any creative combination on a slice of bread no bigger than a deck of cards; Danes heap everything from rivers of caper-spiked mayonnaise to pyramids of meatballs.
Rosenborg Castle is the best "Palace" to tour in the city. The ornate rooms and their collections are beautiful. You can imagine a time when life in the Castle was lively and glamorous. Even during our winter visit, the gardens were pleasant and a joy to walk through. You should see the Crown Jewels located in the basement. Incredible ornate weapons, Ornate jewels, and crowns filled with treasure and history. Don't miss the "Crotch Wetting Chair" " the set of Pistols given by Abraham Lincoln, and the "Rose," an ornate walnut cupboard that contains a mechanical orchestra that cost as much as a palace when made. You can hear samples of the music it plays on the online guide app.
We ate at a few recommended restaurants during our stay;
POPL Burger Overrated and overpriced is about the best way to describe it. We expected more from this place due to the touted relationship with Restaurant Noma (World's Best Restaurant). We should have known better, as it appears to be a ploy to overcharge. Although the food was good (Not great), the price was exorbitant for two people: broth, burgers, fries, an adult beverage, and a few pickled vegetables. The price was nearly criminal for ordinary food! It cost us the equivalent of about three restaurant dinners for two in Portugal! I understand if it was exceptional over the top, as is Noma, but this is far from that.
Marv & Ben, We dined here based on a Michelin Bib Gourmande recommendation. The atmosphere was quaint and cozy; the service was attentive and friendly. We chose the "Fast Four" pre-fix menu with wine pairing and felt it was a great value for the quality and quantity of food and wine. The raw scallops, potato & mackerel, and onglet were flavorful, well prepared, and presented. The plum dish was reaching too far in an attempt at gastronomic creativity. The value for the price was fair and worthy of a Michelin star.
No. 2 We chose this restaurant based on a Michelin Bib Gourmand recommendation but left a bit unimpressed. The restaurant was a bit hard to find if walking, but a taxi would be best to get there. The dining room is a wide open space filled with tables, which felt more like a dining hall. The views of the modern buildings across the canal were nice, but not much to see at night other than the ferry boats coming and going. The service was hit and miss; the food was good, but it felt like they were trying too hard with flavor combinations and presentation. The wine selection was vast but very pricey. Overall, the prices were high for the value of the experience. Priced like a one or two-star Michelin restaurant but barely on the Bib Gourmande scale
The Olive Kitchen & Bar is one of our favorites in Copenhagen. It is in a convenient location near the City Hall Square. The food is delicious, large portions and very well prepared and presented. The prices are reasonable for Copenhagen standards and a good value considering the quality. Not pretentious as some of the other "Gastronomic" restaurants in town, A very cozy and friendly environment. We enjoyed the goat cheese salad, the mushroom soup, the sea bass, and the crispy chicken.
Copenhagen 11-2024
Things to do
Visit Nyhavn
Nyhavn, or “New Harbor”, is one of the most well-known neighborhoods of Copenhagen. Brightly colored 17th and 18th-century townhouses, bars, and restaurants line the canal; the oldest house, No. 9, dates back to 1681! The canal also hosts several historic ships, some of which have a history of being used as smuggling vessels, fishing boats, or ferries.
Although a picturesque and popular tourist spot now, Nyhavn has a less glamorous history. It was initially a commercial port where ships from all over the world docked and was notorious for drinking and prostitution.
Try a Hot Dog in Nyhavn - Per our guide, we had to try a famous Danish hot dog. They’re a popular local delicacy, packed with ketchup, mustard, and other sauces and topped with pickles and crunchies – and we can attest that they’re delicious!
Recommendation: Get a hot dog and request all of the toppings they offer. It may seem strange, but getting chocolate milk with your dog is also standard. As they say, when in Denmark, do as the Danes do!
Explore on Foot - Do a Free Walking Tour
http://www.copenhagenfreewalkingtours.dk/index.html#grand-tour-of-copenhagen
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours at City Hall, i.e., Rådhuspladsen, for the “Grand Tour of Copenhagen.” I booked online and arrived fifteen minutes early. It's a great way to spend time in Copenhagen.
Take a Canal Tour
Seeing Copenhagen by boat is one of the best ways to do it! Hop on a canal cruise at Nyhaven. We reserved a smaller boat through Hey Captain. The tour guide pointed out both historical landmarks and important modern buildings. Copenhagen prides itself on having some of Europe's cleanest canals, so you’ll often find locals hanging around, some swimming in the chilly waters.
Torvehallerne Food Market
A culinary paradise. There is a wide range of produce, such as fishmongers (a lot of eye-catching caviar!), cheese shops, bakers, butchers, and other organic produce stands. You can also find artisanal goods and international stalls selling delicious meals that you can enjoy right in the market. This is a great place for food enthusiasts to taste some of the international and Nordic cuisine in all its glory. Not to mention, the communal space makes for a fun, social vibe.
Christiansborg Palace
A quick stop to admire the horses trotting by before walking by the Royal Library gardens or taking a tour inside the Palace, which houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. Although still used by the Royal Family at times throughout the year, some areas are open to the public. Among those are the Royal Representation rooms (the Knights’ Hall and the Queen’s tapestries included), the Royal Stables, the Royal Party Kitchen, the ruins, and the Christiansborg Castle Church.
Royal Palace of Amalienborg.
The palace was initially built for four noble families, but the royal family moved in instead when Christiansborg Palace burned down in 1794. The Danish royal family still lives here; the queen is home if the flag is up.
Watch the changing of the guards at noon daily
Little Mermaid
Arguably (and strangely) one of Copenhagen’s most iconic tourist attractions. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale, the sculpture was gifted from Danish Carl Jacobsen to the City of Copenhagen in 1913. It’s just a bronze statue on a rock in the canal.
Freetown Christiania
Another popular tourist attraction. Christiania is a commune that inhabits around 1,000 people; popularized for its hippy-like vibes, it has restaurants and cafes where you can eat or grab a beer.
Today, many original inhabitants still live in the collectively controlled village, flaunting self-made, unique, artistic homes with a seventies feel. Many eco-friendly restaurants, art galleries, music venues, and even a schoolhouse exist.
Since drugs are consumed and sold freely here, and organized criminal groups control the area around Pusher Street, you should NOT take photos here (other than at the entrance).
Take in Breathtaking Views of the City at The Round Tower
A magnificent view from the Rundetaarn, or Round Tower, as part of the Trinity Complex houses the observatory at the top of the tower, the Trinity Church, and the University Library above the church. Climb up the Spiral Ramp to reach the top, where you will see the oldest functioning observatory in Europe.
The Church of Our Saviour is a great alternative if you’re looking for epic city views.
Climb 400 steps to get to the top.
Carlsberg Brewery
The brewery was founded in 1847 by J. C. Jacobsen and has become the fourth-largest brewery in the world. It’s a global brewer of its flagship brand, Carlsberg, among its other brands, Tuborg, Kronenbourg, Somersby, Baltika, Grimsbergen, and more than 500 local beers.
Take a self-guided tour and observe the brewing process, see thousands of old beer bottles, some of which have eerie symbols and branding that reflect the history of Copenhagen and Denmark.
After the tour, do a beer/cider tasting.
Take a carriage ride.
Visit the Meatpacking District
Located in the Vesterbro area, The Meatpacking District is a dynamic neighborhood. The formerly industrial neighborhood has repurposed the old warehouses and slaughterhouses into trendy establishments, creating an energetic atmosphere. The hub is known for its creativity and wonderful culinary scene. The district has several innovative restaurants, cafes, and bars, putting their cool spin on traditional Danish and international cuisine. The district caters to diverse plates and is a fun area to explore and experiment with different tastes and flavors.
The Meatpacking District has much more to offer than just its gastronomy. It is one of the most artistic in the city. Walking through the streets, you’re sure to stumble upon various contemporary art galleries, displays of street art, and cool design studios. Artistic expression is one of the most captivating aspects of this thriving neighborhood, and any art lover will be impressed with the amount of creativity in industrial architecture.
Walk Værmedamsvej street
One of the most iconic in the Vesterbro area, right in the heart of the neighborhood. Take some time to stroll down this beautiful street and admire the promenade lined with towering trees and a variety of small specialty shops and boutiques; if you’re looking to do some shopping, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re not into shopping, you should still check out the gorgeous street, perhaps indulging in a delectable pastry or admiring its beauty from one of the many cozy cafes. Take some time on this breathtaking street to relax, admire the atmosphere, and savor the peacefulness.
Stroll and Shop Along Strøget
One of the longest car-free, pedestrian shopping streets in all of Europe. Running from City Hall Square to Kognes Nytriv, Strøget hosts various shops, boutiques, department stores, cafes and restaurants. During summertime, there are food trucks and live music
Recommendation: check out some of the side streets in Strøget for cheaper alternatives, as many of these will have better deals than the pricier shops along the main streets.
Walk Through the Botanical Garden
Located in the center of Copenhagen, the garden covers almost 25 acres and is home to more than 13,000 plant species. It’s most well-known for its historical glasshouses dating back to 1874. The old Palm House is the most notable of the twenty-seven glasshouses on the premises. Although guided tours are available, you can also walk through independently.
Tour Rosenborg Slot
In our opinion the one Palace tour that should be included in your itinerary. Beginning in the early 1600s, Christian IV created a small summer palace, i.e., the “pleasure palace”, which transformed through several phases into the castle that stands today. Being his favorite castle, Christian IV decided he would like to die there and ultimately passed away in his bed chamber. The castle has a Dutch Renaissance style. It was a royal residence until roughly 1710, except for two occasions – the fire at Christiansborg Palace in 1794 and the English attack on Copenhagen in 1801.
The interiors are unique and well-preserved. This includes twelve tapestries displayed in the Great Hall that Christian V had woven to showcase his victories during the Scanian War.
Don’t miss the Crown jewels located in the basement
Experience Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli opened in 1843 and is the world's second-oldest operating amusement park. This is a must-see for any visit to Copenhagen.
The park is home to Rutschebanen, one of the world’s oldest operating wooden roller coasters. The park also has a concert hall, Pantomime Theater, restaurants, and snack/drink stalls. It’s also believed that Tivoli inspired one of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales.
When Denmark was occupied during World War II, parts of Tivoli tragically burned down. A group of Nazi supporters snuck in and left bombs in the Concert Hall, Glass Hall, Arena Theater, and other large spaces, devastating the park and leaving many injured. Luckily, the park was rebuilt and restored to its former glory.
Visit the National Museum of Denmark, the country's largest museum of cultural history.
Explore the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
An art museum with ancient and modern art collections.
Visit Frederiksberg
A 40 minute train ride to what is often described as the Versailles of Denmark. Gardens, Zoo, Castle
Visit the SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst, the National Gallery of Denmark.
Explore the Designmuseum Denmark, a museum dedicated to Danish and international design and crafts.
Christmas Markets
Christmas at Tivoli Gardens
One of the most famous spots in Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens, is open year-round. Usually a charming amusement park, it is utterly transformed into a Christmas wonderland in the festive season. Located beside City Hall Square, you’ll find dozens of stalls selling everything from delicious food and specialty deli produce to traditional mulled wine, crafts, and woolen mittens.
Though beautiful at any time of the day, I recommend you visit in the early evening when the gardens come to life under thousands of twinkling fairy lights. With 70,000 Christmas baubles and more than 1,000 Christmas trees, Christmas at Tivoli Gardens is magical.
Nyhavn Christmas Market
This Copenhagen Christmas Market is located in Nyhavn and runs along the canal. It’s easily one of the prettiest spots on our list, and it's a real “ooh” moment when you see it for the first time.
Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market
From Nyhavn, it’s impossible to miss Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market. This small but fun market is well worth a stroll, just a few minutes walk from the city center, beside the Royal Theatre. You’ll find all the classics like sausages, smoked salmon, tornado potatoes, cookies, nougat, and freshly roasted chestnuts. And there’s a lovely wooden chalet bar at the start of the market, where you can take a break from the cold weather and enjoy a toasty Gløgg. You can’t miss the giant teddy bear and reindeer made entirely of fairy lights!
This 17th-century square is completely transformed, thanks in part to the Christmas Market and the festive displays on the buildings surrounding the square. The giant icicles at Hotel D'Angleterre, just across the road, are a must-see. Next door, the department store Magasin du Nord also put on a beautiful display of golden lights.
Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Market
Located in the heart of Copenhagen, in the Strøget shopping district, this Christmas Market is named after the renowned Danish storyteller Hans Christian Andersen. Decorated with hundreds of fairy lights, this market has a fun, lively atmosphere no matter what time you visit. In the evening, it gets busy, and it has the biggest bar in any of the markets, playing festive music and serving, amongst other drinks, spicy Gløgg.
Højbro Plads Christmas Market
Right in the center of town, it’s similar to the Hans Christian Andersen market but smaller, a little quaint. Dozens of stalls take over the square, and vendors sell a variety of high-quality souvenirs and handmade gifts, such as festive wooden figurines and beautiful Christmas decorations.
This is a good market for foodies, and you’ll find plenty of eating options here, including crispy potato skewers, smoked salmon, waffles, roasted almonds, and hot chocolate. I think the traditional Bratwurst sausages at this Christmas Market were the best we sampled, freshly cooked over hot coals and heaps of flavors to choose from.
There are also plenty of wooden benches to stop and eat at. And incredibly cozy little huts to hide from the weather in.
Where to Eat & Drink
Alouette – 1 Michelin star - The menu is meticulously crafted to offer a captivating journey through the rich culinary heritage of Denmark. Each dish beautifully showcases the dedication of skilled artisans, the bountiful produce of local growers, and the diverse array of dynamic flavors that characterize this wonderful region. The menu consists of 12-15 servings served in the dining room over 2.5 hours, with last bites, coffee, tea, and cocktails enjoyed in the lounge afterward. Three different pairings: a Non-Alcoholic Pairing, a Wine Pairing, and a Prestige Pairing. In addition, we also have a Wine List with a diverse and rare selection of wines from which you can order à la carte, should that be your preference.
Geranium – 3 Michelin star - Rasmus Kofoed was the first chef in Denmark to earn three Michelin stars in 2016. Additionally, in 2022, Geranium's restaurant was recognized as the best restaurant in the world. Around 20 courses, evenly divided between appetizers, savory dishes, and desserts, comprise the locally-inspired, seasonally-changing tasting menu, served for at least three hours. In 2022, Kofoed declared Geranium a meat-free zone five years after he gave up eating meat, concentrating only on regional seafood and vegetables from organic and biodynamic farms in Scandinavia and Denmark.
Marv & Ben – Bib Gourmande - The young owners bring plenty of enthusiasm to this little restaurant, where dining is split over two dimly lit floors. Organic produce features seasonal cooking, which displays purity and depth of flavor. They produce six dishes each evening, priced individually or as 4 or 6 courses. -
No. 2 - Bib Gourmande - Located in the Christianshavn dockside development is this minimally decorated, no-frills sister restaurant to a|o|c. This approach extends to the low-key service and the laid-back ambiance. The fish of the day is a prime example, showcasing a quality prime ingredient that’s been expertly seasoned and accompanied by a well-judged garnish of caramelized cauliflower purée and foamy mussel sauce.
Popl Burger – (Overrated and Overpriced!) This Noma-backed restaurant is not your average burger joint. As for the burgers, there are plenty to choose from: Along with a meaty option and a veggie burger, watch out for options with monkfish or seasonal mushrooms. There’s a short cocktail list, craft beer, and natural wine to drink alongside. Rene Redzepe’s Burger Restaurant - https://poplburger.com/
Surt (Pizza) - Surt was among the first to turn the old Carlsberg Byen brewery area into a hot spot. People are known to cross half the city to grab a pizza baked by Italian owner Giuseppe Oliva, a key player in chef Christian Puglisi’s Baest, Copenhagen’s first upmarket Italian restaurant. Surt is ideal for lunch when you can tuck into a Sur Pie baked in a tray, and equally good in the evening for the full experience: ancient grain-based sourdough pizzas loaded with a deep red sauce made from Sicilian siccagno tomatoes and topped with items like Hindsholm pork sausage and buffalo mozzarella. There’s also a great selection of wine from Sicilian producers, though you can also check out Surt’s nearby sister wine bar, Lĭquo, which serves wines from all 21 Italian regions.
Anarki - Bib Gourmande - An unassuming and proudly run neighbourhood bistro set just over the water in Frederiksberg. The regularly changing menu draws its inspiration from the season, the best quality ingredients available, and the mood of the chef – and the bold, rustic dishes are bursting with flavor, with some great wines to match.
Paesàno - Bib Gourmande - Down a charming cobbled street in the trendy Nørrebro neighborhood, where you will find several artisan food producers, lies this thoroughly fun restaurant run by a Neapolitan Chef. Blackboard specials supplement the short Italian menu and might include ‘cucina povera’ style dishes like 'pasta e piselli' and ‘soffrito napoletano’ – a ragu made using 'the best parts of the pig'. Whatever you choose, you can bet it will be colorful, packed with flavor, and excellent value.
Bird (Cocktails) - Despite its slightly out-of-the-way location in Frederiksberg, Bird attracts a crowd of international bartenders and drink nerds, especially after it won Best Cocktail Bar in Denmark at the 2024 Bartenders’ Choice Awards, a celebration of Nordic bars. The listening bar delivers “highballs with hi-fidelity,” as weekend DJs spin everything from jazz to Balearic house, while patrons enjoy mostly pre-batched cocktails (which make for even execution from drink to drink). The beverages take cues from classics, often made with bottles from young craft distilleries. The signature Bonfire Manhattan is an excellent place to start, as is the selection of Negronis.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar - a cozy restaurant with a stylish industrial interior serving sophisticated dishes and customized cocktails.
Sanchez (Mexican) - Since opening her first taco stand outside the Torvehallerne market back in 2015, chef Rosio Sanchez has grown a small empire of casual taquerias, as well as this crown jewel, which offers upscale a la carte and tasting menus. The menu reflects the chef’s Mexican upbringing in Chicago, and there’s a strong throughline of masa, which is always cooked fresh and transformed into perfect little tortillas. Among the more classic dishes, don’t sleep on the cochinita pibil taco with slow-cooked pork from Hindsholm, but be sure to try some of the more creative and seasonal items, like the spicy mussels. Solo diners are well taken care of in the bar, tucking into warm peanuts toasted with garlic and chile de árbol alongside mezcal margaritas. A big bonus: Many of the top restaurants in Copenhagen are only open for dinner, but Sanchez caters to the lunch crowd.
Prolog Coffee Bar - Copenhagen is home to some of the best coffee bars in Europe. Prolog, opened by Jonas Gehl and Sebastian Quistorff in 2016, has two shops in the city, both hubs for the most devoted coffee nerds. Opt for the one in Kødbyen to enjoy pastries from Juno bakery and a nice cup of java. Prolog works directly with around 30 farmers from Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru, Ethiopia, and Kenya. You can also stock up on beans and all kinds of coffee equipment.
John’s Hotdog Deli - A good old hot dog is the ultimate street food in the Nordics. You’ll find stands scattered all over the city selling røde pølser (red hotdogs): boiled pork wieners wrapped in bright red casings. For a true taste of the unofficial Danish national dish, head to John’s Hotdog Deli, a cart conveniently parked just outside the Central Station. The dogs come stuffed with distinct, creative flavors, such as wild boar with mushroom or lemon with thyme, and there’s an array of toppings beyond ketchup and mustard.
Hotdog stand DØP Nyhavn
Juno (Bakery) - Home to some of the best cinnamon buns in the Nordics, Juno is run by Swede Emil Glaser, a veteran of Noma. The tiny bakery in Østerbro is a year-round winner, from semlor (cream-filled buns) on Shrove Tuesday in February to lussekatter (saffron buns) in December, and it’s always worth any wait for a chance to try the black cardamom buns and croissants. When you finally reach the front of the queue, pair your prizes with a cup from Koppi, the Swedish company that has played a vital role in advancing Scandinavia’s coffee scene.
Reffen Street Food Market - With around 50 food stalls spread across 65,000 square feet, this street food market is the largest in the Nordics. Set on the island of Refshaleøen, the market encompasses food trucks offering Nepalese dishes, Moroccan food, Nordic hotdogs, Kurdish kebabs, and more. Take your pick, grab some drinks from the bar, and find a chair to lounge in the sun.
Told & Snaps - A classic Danish restaurant located in Toldbodgade by Nyhavn in the heart of Copenhagen. A cozy white table cloth, wood paneled dining room with well known Danish faces on the walls. Featuring classic and modern Danish ‘smørrebrød’ (Open-faced sandwiches), Homemade schnapps & Local beer with a focus on fresh, high quality ingredients where the majority are organic.
What to Eat
Try a Danish Hot Dog
A good old hot dog is the ultimate street food in the Nordics. You’ll find stands scattered all over the city selling røde pølser (red hotdogs): boiled pork wieners wrapped in bright red casings. A popular local delicacy, packed with ketchup, mustard, and other sauces and topped with pickles and crunchies.
Recommendation: Get a hot dog and request all the toppings they offer. I’m not a huge hot dog fan, but these are amazing. It may seem strange, but getting chocolate milk with your dog is also standard. As they say, when in Denmark, do as the Danes do!
John’s Hotdog Deli - For an authentic taste of the unofficial Danish national dish, head to John’s Hotdog Deli, a cart conveniently parked just outside the Central Station. The dogs come stuffed with distinct, creative flavors, such as wild boar with mushroom or lemon with thyme, and there’s an array of toppings beyond ketchup and mustard.
Hotdog stand DØP Nyhavn
Have Breakfast at Dag H
The restaurant has an elegant feel and a relaxed environment.
Torvehallerne Food Market
This bustling food market, Torvehallerne, is a culinary paradise. There is a wide range of produce, such as fishmongers, cheese shops, bakers, butchers, and other organic produce stands. You can also find artisanal goods and international stalls selling delicious meals you can enjoy right in the market. This is a great place for food enthusiasts to taste some of the international and Nordic cuisine in all its glory. Not to mention, the communal space makes for a fun, social vibe.
Meatpacking District
Located in the Vesterbro area, The Meatpacking District is a dynamic neighborhood, and as per the name, was the former meatpacking district of the city. Nowadays, the industrial neighborhood has repurposed the old warehouses and slaughterhouses into trendy establishments, creating an energetic atmosphere.
Known for its creativity and fantastic culinary scene, the district has several innovative restaurants, cafes, and bars, putting their own spin on traditional Danish and international cuisine.
Walking through the streets, you’re sure to stumble upon various contemporary art galleries, displays of street art, and cool design studios. Artistic expression is one of the most captivating aspects of this thriving neighborhood, and any art lover will be impressed with the amount of creativity in industrial architecture.
Sink your teeth into our world-renowned pastry
Danes tend to be known for being rather humble - at least until you get them talking about pastries. The good news is that you'll never be far from a bakery in Copenhagen, and you ought to treat yourself to a pastry - or three (we don't judge) - while you're here. Some of the most popular places to queue for these treats are Juno the bakery in Østerbro, Hart Bageri in Frederiksberg, Sankt Peders Bageri in the old Latin Quarter, Mirabelle in Nørrebro, or Lille Bakery & Eatery on Refshaleøen.
Smørrebrød
Traditional Danish lunch, the open-faced sandwiches known as smørrebrød, are as delicious and varied as the word is difficult to pronounce. Smørrebrød is rye bread slices heaped with different toppings, such as pickled herring, potato slices, or roast beef.
Many restaurants throughout Copenhagen have some smørrebrød on their lunch menus, and you can also buy smørrebrød in places like Torvehallerne (often referred to as "the glass markets"). But if you want to really understand smørrebrød and our obsession with this beloved dish, you should sign up for a cooking class at Hahnemanns Køkken.
Dine at our organic restaurants
Did you know that we Danes are some of the people buying the most organic produce in the world? We even have an annual Økodag festival where organic produce is celebrated up and down the country. (You should check it out - it even has dancing cows!)
This love of local and organic produce has spread to restaurants across Copenhagen and has become a key ingredient (literally) to their business. If you're looking for a few suggestions on where to eat organically, you might want to check out the rooftop farm/restaurant Gro Spiseri, the hotdog stand DØP, the houseboat turned floating restaurant Vandvid, or the Italian restaurant Bæst (whose pizza has been ranked third best in Europe).
Do as the locals and eat at a street food market
Copenhagen has acquired a booming street food scene in the past couple of years, and the street food markets have become popular places for locals and visitors alike to meet up and have a hyggelig time. At these markets, you'll find a wide variety of carefully selected food options, ranging from burgers and pizza to Japanese street food, as well as hot dogs (the original Danish street food) and craft beer.
You can explore a range of different areas of Copenhagen if you use the street food markets as your guiding star.
In the city center, you can combine a visit to Tivoli Gardens's iconic amusement park with a meal at Tivoli Food Hall.
explore the area around the Royal Palace while quenching your thirst at Boltens Food Court. If you head to the Reffen market you'll discover the up-and-coming district of Refshaleøen that seems to change daily. But if you need a snack on the way to or from Refshaleøen, make a quick stop by Broens Gadekøkken in the charming old neighborhood of Christianshavn. Torvehallerne Food Market
Hunt for our liquid treasure
When you think of Danish beer, what do you think of? Carlsberg? Tuborg? These classic pilsner brands are no doubt part of the Danish cultural fabric, but in the last decade, the Danish craft beer scene has grown faster than a strain of wild yeast in a hoppy IPA. Nowhere in Denmark is that more true than in Copenhagen.
look at Mikkeller for proof: What started as a home-brewing project in Mikkel Borg Bjergsø’s kitchen is today a veritable craft beer empire with a dozen bars and restaurants in Copenhagen and around the world. And Mikkeller’s not the only Danish brewery garnering international praise; to Øl, Dry & Bitter, Beer Here, and Gamma have all earned acclaim in recent years.
But where to try all these delicious beers? Thankfully, Copenhagen has more than a few options for every taste. From brewery outposts like Mikkeller and Friends, BRUS, Nørrebro Bryghus, and Dial’legd to the classic American-style craft beer bars like Fermentoren to stylish bars like Mikropolis, there are more great places to try craft beer in Copenhagen than ever.
Get a taste of the stars
Michelin stars, that is, because Copenhagen is the city with both the highest number of Michelin stars and the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the Nordics. The capital city is a true gourmet powerhouse that has taken its place among the world's best. At the moment, two of the world's top 5 best restaurants are located in Copenhagen. The Michelin-starred restaurants Noma (3* and four-time world's best restaurant) and Geranium (3* run by one of the world's best chefs, Rasmus Kofoed).
If your wallet, however, isn't too keen for you to travel to a galaxy far, far away, you can also opt for the more affordable gourmet experience (which still has the Michelin stamp of approval) by booking a table at one of our Bib Gourmand restaurants.
Day trips
Helsingør and Hamlet's castle
Enjoy the 45-minute train ride along the coast of North Zealand to the historic seaside town of Helsingør (Elsinore), where you can walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare's Hamlet at Kronborg Castle. Afterward, you can explore Denmark's maritime history at the M/S Maritime Museum, which was designed by Bjarke Ingels, and wander through the well-preserved historical town center.
If you're looking for a razzle-dazzle extravaganza, Frederiksborg Castle is the place to go. This lavish castle is situated on three islets on the castle lake in Hillerød, a short train ride from Copenhagen. Often referred to as the Nordic Versailles, you'll have more than enough to keep you entertained for the day - and be sure to stroll around in the stunning Baroque garden.
Roskilde - city of kings and Vikings
The historic cathedral city of Roskilde awaits you - just 20 minutes from Copenhagen. Roskilde Cathedral is the last resting place of nearly 40 Danish kings and queens and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also experience 1,000 years of history at the Viking Ship Museum, which features real Viking long boats at the bottom of Roskilde Fjord.
Day Trip To Sweden
Want to check another country off? Malmo, Sweden, is just a forty-minute train ride away. You get stunning views as you cross the water and are met with another quaint city center full of funky architecture, shopping, and local restaurants. We spent four hours here, and that was plenty long enough to wander around, snap some photos, and see the castle.
Visit Kronborg Castle
a forty-five-minute train ride from Copenhagen’s central station to Helsingør, a port city in eastern Denmark that overlooks the Øresund strait. Walked fifteen minutes to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kronborg Castle.
Kronborg Castle is the most famous Danish castle, known worldwide as the castle of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet’s spirit is still alive in Kronborg, and in the summer, you can experience scenes from the play performed on the open-air stage in the courtyard. Unfortunately, since we were there in October, we didn’t see this.
The towers, columns, sandstone, and copper roofs were thus affordable during this time. Kronborg Castle became one of the most majestic castles of the Renaissance period, known to most sailors, merchants, diplomats, and aristocrats.
Naturally, a fire destroyed most of the castle’s furniture and paintings and its copper roof in the mid-1600s. The lavish court life and the castle’s fortune disappeared, and the castle was re-purposed as a fortress and barracks for the Danish army.
Stop at a café for snacks, then walk around the cute town for a bit before making your way back to Central Copenhagen.
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