Weekend in Copenhagen: The Ultimate Must See Guide

Copenhagen isn’t just a city. It’s a feeling.

A place where bicycles outnumber cars. Where sleek Scandinavian design meets centuries-old castles. Where you can start your morning with a cinnamon bun at a cozy café, spend your afternoon wandering through world-class museums, and end the night sipping cocktails in a hidden speakeasy.

This city is effortlessly cool. Efficient. Compact. Easy to explore. You don’t need a week to experience its magic—48 hours is enough to get a taste of Copenhagen’s best. The key? Knowing where to go and what to skip.

With this guide, you’ll hit the must-see landmarks, the best food spots, and the hidden gems only locals talk about. Whether you’re here for design, history, or just a weekend of effortless Nordic charm, you’re in for something special.

So, let’s dive in. Two days. One incredible city. Here’s how to make it count.

Panoramic View of Copenhagen | Weekend in Copenhagen

Places to Stay in Copenhagen

Tivoli Hotel

Tivoli Hotel is excellent for everyone visiting Copenhagen, especially those with a family, because it is designed after the famous theme park “Tivoli”. Further, the hotel offers a spa with a pool where you can relax, and there is a kid’s zone in the lobby for everyone to enjoy their stay. However, for those without children, Tivoli Hotel is also a fantastic option for a visit.

Moreover, if you are staying in an executive room with a loft or a junior suite or suite, you have access to the penthouse infinity pool with champagne and light snacks. This will be unforgettable.

Finally, Tivoli Hotel offers two excellent restaurants- Skybar Sticks’ N’ Sushi and Mash Penthouse. Both restaurants offer delicious food and have a fantastic view over Copenhagen; the restaurants are located on the 12th floor. 

Read more 

Tivoli Hotel | Weekend in Copenhagen | Arni Magnussons Gade 2, 1577 København

Manon Les Suites

Manon Les Suites will be an excellent stay for those looking for a unique tropical experience in Copenhagen. The hotel is designed in a bohemian luxury with many picturesque spots. However, one of the most intriguing things about Manon Les Suites is their pool area, which gives you a feeling of being on a tropical island. 

In addition, Manon Les Suites has a rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy a fantastic view while enjoying cocktails, drinks and a delicious menu.

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Manon Les Suites | Weekend in Copenhagen | Source: Kayak.se  | Gyldenløvesgade 19, 1600 København

Hotel D’Angleterre

For those willing to experience elegance, luxury and style, Hotel D’Angleterre is the one. The hotel has a beautiful 265-year history, and it all started with a young couple’s love story. 

Hotel D’Angleterre also offers a SPA and pool area, where you can have the ultimate relaxation by choosing from their wide selection of beautifying and healing treatments.

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Hotel D’Angleterre | Weekend in Copenhagen | Kongens Nytorv 34, 1050 København

Villa Copenhagen

One of the unique things about the Villa luxurious hotel is its rooftop pool which is kept warm throughout the year. It is a fantastic experience, going for a swim while seeing the rooftops of Copenhagen.

Further, Villa Copenhagen offers rooms, suites, a pool and wellness area, a restaurant, and a lobby bar.
Finally, the hotel is located only a few steps away from Copenhagen Central station.

Read more 

Villa Copenhagen | Weekend in Copenhagen | Source: Villa Copenhagen, Tripadvisor | Copenhagen Central Post Building, Tietgensgade 35-39, 1704 København 

Transportation in Copenhagen

To enjoy the many great locations in Copenhagen, you can rent a bicycle and bike around the city as one of the locals. Copenhagen’s infrastructure makes it very convenient since it is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world.

However, another great alternative is public transport. It is very well-developed and convenient to get around the city, and you can use the bus, metro, and train. In addition, you can purchase a Copenhagen City Pass if you decide that this is the way that suits you best.

Now, let’s move into the sightseeing part.

DOT – Din Offentlige Transport | Weekend in Copenhagen | Source: DOT – Din Offentlige Transport, Facebook

Sightseeing in Copenhagen

Nyhavn

Visit one of the most picturesque streets in Copenhagen. Nyhavn is the home to the colourful little houses usually associated with Copenhagen. The street is filled with bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy various cuisine and desserts. From Nyhavn, you can also go on a boat trip, which will take you on a two-hour-long trip and give you an insight into Danish culture and history.

Nyhavn | Weekend in Copenhagen

Amalienborg Palace

Only a few steps away from Nyhavn lies the home of the Danish Royal family. 

The Amalienborg Palace was built in 1760 and has been home to one of the oldest monarchies in the world. It is an architectural masterpiece, and some areas are open to the public. One of them – is the Christian VIII Palace – which currently serves as a museum and gives an overview of the royal family. The royal guards stand in front of the palace, which is very interesting to see as a spectacle, significantly when they change shifts at noon.

Amalienborg Palace | Weekend in Copenhagen | Source: Bahnfrend, Wikipedia | Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 København K

Rosenborg Castle

The Rosenborg Castle was built 400 years ago, and you can have a picnic in its beautiful gardens. It holds Denmark’s crown jewels, an exquisite collection of Flora Danica, and one of the world’s finest Venetian glass collections.

Rosenborg Castle | Weekend in Copenhagen | Source: Marco Almbauer, Wikipedia | Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København

The Round Tower

The Round Tower gives a 360-degree view of Copenhagen and is picture-worthy. 

It was built in the 17th century and is currently the oldest functioning observatory in Europe and an icon of Copenhagen’s cityscape.

The Round Tower | Weekend in Copenhagen | Source: Moahim, Wikipedia | Købmagergade 52A, 1150 København

The Little Mermaid

Visit one of the most iconic sculptures in Copenhagen – The Little Mermaid, inspired by the fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen. The Little Mermaid is located on the shore of the “Langelinie” cruise harbour in the old port district.

The Little Mermaid | Weekend in Copenhagen | Langelinie, 2100 København Ø

Tivoli Gardens 

Located at the heart of Copenhagen, Tivoli is a must-see place for everyone visiting Denmark. Tivoli offers many different activities, starting with fun rides, a variety of beautiful places in the garden, live music, and many restaurants for all tastes. So if you are seeking adrenaline or are more into calm rides or visiting with small kids, Tivoli has something for everyone. 

During the summertime, Tivoli Gardens offer live music and fun events; if you are not into the rides, you can still enjoy the beautiful atmosphere, live music, and delicious drinks and food.

Finally, when the evening comes, the amusement park turns into a light festival, showcasing its light show – Tivoli Illuminations. The visit during the day and the evening visit can make the impression that there are two different Tivoli Gardens, but it is all in the magic of lights.

Read more about Tivoli Gardens and tickets here.

Tivoli Gardens | Weekend in Copenhagen | Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V

Copenhagen Weekend Food Guide: Where to Eat & Drink

Copenhagen’s food scene is world-class, blending New Nordic cuisine, casual street food, and Michelin-star dining. Here’s where to eat during your weekend stay.

Breakfast & Coffee

• Atelier September – Cozy café serving Danish pastries and healthy breakfast bowls.

• Coffee Collective – One of the best places for specialty coffee, with locations in Torvehallerne and Jægersborggade.

• Andersen Bakery – Traditional Danish bakery with excellent cinnamon buns.

Lunch & Street Food

• Torvehallerne Market – A food hall with everything from smørrebrød (Danish open-faced sandwiches) to fresh seafood.

• Reffen Street Food – An outdoor food market with international stalls and a great waterfront view.

• Aamanns Deli – One of the best places to try gourmet smørrebrød.

Dinner & Fine Dining

• Noma – World-famous, innovative New Nordic cuisine (reservations required).

• Høst – Elegant, seasonal dishes in a rustic-chic setting.

• Kødbyens Fiskebar – A top seafood spot in the Meatpacking District.

Bars & Cocktails

• Ruby – A hidden cocktail bar with a cozy, vintage interior.

• Lidkoeb – Three-story whiskey and cocktail bar in Vesterbro.

• Brønnum – Stylish bar near Nyhavn with creative drinks and live jazz.

From quick bites to high-end dining, Copenhagen offers some of the best food experiences in Scandinavia.

Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

Beyond the classic tourist spots, Copenhagen is full of unique local experiences that add depth to your visit.

Visit the Cisterns

• An underground art museum inside an old water reservoir. A surreal, atmospheric space for exhibitions and immersive installations.

Kayak Through the Canals

• Instead of a tourist boat, rent a kayak and explore the city’s canals at your own pace.

Explore Superkilen Park

• A public park in Nørrebro showcasing art, sculptures, and cultural influences from around the world.

Try a Traditional Danish Sauna

• CopenHot offers a floating sauna experience on Copenhagen’s harbor, perfect for a relaxing Nordic-style break.

Adding these off-the-beaten-path recommendations makes your itinerary more unique and memorable.

Conclusion: Why Copenhagen is the Perfect Weekend Escape

A weekend in Copenhagen is just enough time to fall in love with the city—but not nearly enough to see it all.

You’ll leave with memories of biking past colorful townhouses, indulging in buttery pastries, and soaking in the city’s effortless style. You might even leave wishing your city had a little more hygge and a few more bikes.

But here’s the best part: Copenhagen is always worth a second visit. There’s always another hidden café, a new pop-up restaurant, or an exhibition you missed this time around.

So, before you leave, do one last thing: make a mental note to return. Because this city? It has a way of pulling you back.

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