Ultimate Three Days Copenhagen Itinerary (From a Local)

Crafting a three days Copenhagen itinerary might seem overwhelming, but trust me, it doesn’t have to be!

I’ve been living in Copenhagen since 2021, and I can tell you there’s no shortage of amazing things to see and do. So, I’ve put together a simple yet well-designed itinerary that mixes sightseeing, local experiences, and some time to unwind.

The key is to plan strategically. Focus on one neighborhood at a time to make the most of your time. In just three days, you can see Copenhagen’s top spots, dive into its rich history, explore vibrant neighborhoods, and even savor some Danish pastries!

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re looking to experience Copenhagen like a local, this guide has got you covered.

I’m excited to share some tips and insights that make you fall in love with this city, just like I did!

So, let’s get started with the ultimate three-day itinerary and make the most of your time in Copenhagen.

Day 1 – Nyhavn Canal Tour, Changing of Guards, Freetown Christiania, and More

8:00 – Breakfast

Finding an early breakfast in Copenhagen can be challenging, as many places open later during the day. Here are a couple of options for you.

Stop by the Buka Bakery, one of Copenhagen’s finest Danish bakeries. Their pistachio croissants are a must-try and a personal favorite of mine! Pair them with coffee to have a wholesome breakfast. They also have healthy breakfast options.

Alternatively, Union Kitchen near Nyhavn is an excellent choice. Their brunch menu offers a variety of options, including the classic eggs benedict or a croque madame.

9:00 – Nyhavn

Nyhavn is the most iconic spot in Copenhagen, which is why it is first on the list!

Nyhavn, once a bustling port where ships from around the world docked, is now one of Copenhagen’s prime landmarks. The waterfront is lined up with colorful buildings housing hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops, making it lively all year round.

During Christmas, the area transforms with light decorations and the canal glows during the Santa Lucia Parade on December 13th.

If you visit early in the morning, it’s quieter, perfect for a peaceful stroll and to admire the reflections on the water.

10:00 – Canal Tour

One of the best ways to explore Copenhagen’s prime landmarks in just an hour is by hopping on a canal tour. It offers a comfortable experience, with the added charm of viewing the city from the water—a new perspective you won’t get on land.

Audio guides in multiple languages are available. A guide onboard also speaks Danish and English, highlighting the key landmarks as you cruise.

Stromma Tours are available from two boarding points: Ved Stranden and Nyhavn. It is free with the Copenhagen Card—perfect for your three day itinerary.

The boats are covered and heated in winter, so no need to worry about the cold or rain. I highly recommend the Nyhavn canal tour!

11:00 – Amalienborg Palace Museum

A short walk from Nyhavn is the Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of Denmark’s Royal Family. Yes, the Royal Family actually resides here! That alone makes it worth visiting.

A section of the palace is open to the public as a museum, offering a peek into royal life.

You’ll see impressive artifacts, portraits, historical exhibits, and more, giving you a sense of the grandeur. The palace is a must-see on a three-day trip.

On the other side of the Amalienborg Palace is the waterfront with a view of the Opera House. 

• Opening Hours: Closed Mondays. Tuesday – Friday: 10-15, Saturday – Sunday: 10-16
• Entry Fee: 125 DKK for adults and 80 DKK for students, and free for children between 0 and 17 years of age. Entry to the palace is free with the Copenhagen Card.

Buy entry ticket to Amalienborg Palace online now to avoid queues!

12:00 – Changing of Guards at Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace is made up of four grand mansions surrounding an octagonal square, with the equestrian statue of King Frederik V proudly standing at its center.

After exploring the museum, don’t miss the Royal Guards’ changing ceremony right in front of the palace.

Every day at 12:00, the guards march in unison to replace those on duty. It’s a 40-minute event and a true highlight of any visit. Refer to more details and schedules for the guards changing ceremony.

13:00 – Frederik’s Church

Just a short walk away is Frederik’s Church, also known as the Marble Church. It is famous for its turquoise dome—the largest in Scandinavia.

Step inside to admire the colorful frescoes decorating the majestic dome ceiling.

The church is open to everyone and free.

If you’re there on a Saturday or Sunday, consider climbing to the dome at 1 PM for a unique view. The climb costs 50 DKK, and spots are limited.

13:30 – Lunch at Broens

Cross the Inderhavnsbroen bridge (only for pedestrians and cyclists) to reach the Broens street food market.

It’s a laid-back spot with outdoor seating, and a lineup of global street food stands, and bars serving beer, wine, and cocktails.

I highly recommend Gasoline Grill which served the best burgers in the city and definitely worth every krone.

If you’re visiting during the winter, don’t miss the chance to go ice skating in the area. It’s a perfect mix of great food and fun vibes. 

15:00 – The Church of Our Saviour

To get to our next stop, cross the butterfly 3-way bridge and head to the Church of Our Saviour in Christianshavn.

This Lutheran church is easily recognizable by its unique brown spire with golden railings. 

Out of the 400 steps, the last 150 are outside the spire, offering a thrilling ascent. The globe at the top is 2.5 meters in diameter and the Christ figure is 3 meters tall.

Climbing to the top is a memorable experience. The 360° views of Christianshavn, free town Christiania, and other parts of Copenhagen are spectacular at 90 m height.

Inside, the altar showcases Roman influence, featuring Jesus and his disciples.

Also there is no entry fee too see this stunning view!

16:00 – Freetown Christiania

Freetown Christiania is a fascinating neighborhood with a unique history. Once famous for Pusher Street’s open drug trade (now shut down), it’s an independent community of around 1,000 residents.

The homes here are self-built, and the quirky architecture reflects their creativity. Christiania operates by its own rules—no cars and restrictions on photography in some areas.

The area is vibrant with street art and graffiti, making it an artist’s haven. Joining a guided tour is a great way to dive deeper into its culture and history.

Just a short walk away is Christianshavn, which feels like a different world. Its modern vibe and charming canals lined with colorful buildings and boats are in contrast with Christiania.

18:00 – Dinner at Meatpacking District

Hop on a bus to the Meatpacking District for dinner—one of my favorite food markets in Copenhagen. At night, it’s always buzzing with locals and tourists.

The area is packed with bars, restaurants, and cafés, making it perfect for a night out. On weekends, you might catch live performances that adds more energy to the place.

If you’re into seafood, check out Kødbyens Fiskebar. For amazing brisket and a variety of craft beers, Warpigs Brewpub is the go-to.

And if tacos are your thing, Hija De Sánchez Kødbyen serves the best Mexican food.

Day 2 – Museum, Castles, Palaces, and Shopping

9:00 – Breakfast

I’d recommend grabbing breakfast at Ø12 Coffee and Eatery. They serve dishes like eggs benedict and pancakes, a great way to fuel up before exploring. Plus, it’s conveniently close to your first stop, the National Museum of Denmark.

If you prefer something near where you’re staying, that’s a solid choice too—it saves time and keeps things flexible.

Other spots I like are Paludan Bog & Café and Next Door Café, cozy options with good vibes.

10:00 – National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is housed in an 18th-century mansion and offers a deep dive into Denmark’s history, culture, and heritage.

Its exhibits span prehistoric times to the present, highlighting the Golden Horns and the Egtved Girl, alongside artifacts from ancient Egyptian mummies and African masks.

The Viking Sorceress exhibition is my favorite, creating an immersive Viking world.

For families, the Children’s Museum has a hands-on indoor playground where kids can explore freely.

Set aside some time to experience every exhibition fully. Free audio guides are available as well.

Did you know? You can find the artifacts in the Denmark currency notes in the museum.

• Opening Hours: Open every day from 10:00 – 17:00, except Mondays
• Entry Fee: 140 DKK for adults, free for children below 18 years and visitors with a Copenhagen Card.
• Closed on 24th, 25th, and 31st December

Get the National Museum of Denmark entry tickets online now and save the hassle of standing in queues!

12:00 – Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace is a fascinating mix of history and grandeur, offering a chance to explore Denmark’s royal and political legacy.

Start with the Royal Reception Rooms, where the Great Hall showcases Queen Margrethe’s colorful tapestries that cover 1,100 years of Danish history from the Viking Age to the modern era.

Don’t miss the 12th-century ruins beneath the palace to see remnants of the castle, dating back 800 years, or the Royal Stables where you’ll learn about the Royal horses. The royal kitchen offers a glimpse into how grand royal dinners are prepared.

Don’t skip the Chapel—it has a dramatic story of fire and reconstruction—and Christian IV’s Brewery for another historical layer.

The palace tower is free to access for everyone and offers one of the best panoramic views of Copenhagen. You might skip the Round Tower for this trip as they offer similar views.

• Entry Fee: 180 DKK for adults and 175 DKK for students. Free for children under 18 years of age. Free with Copenhagen Card!
• Check the opening hours of each spot inside the palace since the access varies for each area.

Christiansborg Palace is a must-see! Trust me, you’ll walk away fascinated by the stories and the grandeur. Perfect place for your three-day Copenhagen itinerary.

Grab your tickets for the Christiansborg Palace NOW!

13:00 – Shopping in Strøget and Lunch

Make your way through Strøget, Copenhagen’s bustling shopping street. Stretching from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv, this pedestrian-only street is packed with a mix of high-end brands, local boutiques, and souvenir shops.

Check out Illums Bolighus for Danish designs and don’t miss the LEGO flagship store where you can get hands-on with LEGOs.

For a quick and satisfying meal, Restaurant Tight offers a cozy ambiance and a mix of global dishes, while RizRaz serves a popular buffet menu.

Aamanns 1921 is famous for its classic Danish Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches). If you’re in the mood for comfort food, try Sporvejen for burgers and hearty meals. For desserts or pastries, Conditori La Glace is a must-visit.

14:00 – Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle, built by Christian IV over 400 years ago, is a must-see for a glimpse into Denmark’s royal history. Inside, you’ll explore rooms filled with paintings, artifacts, and treasures like the Norwegian lion ivory ship.

Start your visit in the main building, moving from the ground floor to the second. The basement showcases a collection of weapons, amber, glass, and even Rosenborg Wine, once reserved for royal banquets.

It also has the Treasury, home to stunning crowns and jewels, including Christian IV’s crown, weighing nearly 2.9 kg.

Though there aren’t audio guides, you’ll find booklets with details and QR codes for online info. 

Outside, don’t miss the King’s Garden, a serene green space perfect for a leisurely walk. Rosenborg Castle, paired with the King’s Garden, offers a royal journey you shouldn’t skip!

• Entry Fee: 140 DKK for adults and 90 DKK for students. Free for children between 0 and 17 years of age. The entry is free with the Copenhagen Card.
• Opening Hours: 10:00 – 16:00 from Tuesday to Sunday. 
• Closed on Mondays and on December 24,25, and 31

Buy the entry tickets to Rosenborg Castle and save time!

16:00 – SMK Museum – Statens Museum for Kunst

SMK Statens Museum for Kunst is also known as the National Gallery of Denmark. Located in a park, it’s Denmark’s largest art museum with over 200,000 works—and they’re always adding new pieces.

You’ll find European art from the 1300s to 1800s, Danish and Nordic works from 1750 to 1900, and international art from after 1900.

If you’re bringing kids along, they can enjoy creating their own little masterpieces—it’s a fun way to keep them engaged.

After exploring, you can relax at the cafe or check out the museum shop for unique finds.

If you’re a fan of sculptures, paintings, or exhibitions, SMK offers a deep dive into art history and modern creativity. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, and I’d say it’s definitely worth a visit!

• Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 20:00 on Wednesdays, Closed on Mondays
• Entry Fee: 130 DKK for Adults, 95 DKK for young adults below 27 years of age, and free for children below 18.

18:00 – Kastellet

Kastellet, which translates to “citadel,” is a 16th-century fortress surrounded by grassy ramparts and a moat. It’s one of Europe’s best-preserved star-shaped fortresses and is still used by the military.

While some areas are restricted, you can freely explore much of the site, which also serves as a park. Cycling is allowed, making it a great spot to enjoy the outdoors.

As you wander, you’ll spot Danish military buildings, a church, and a windmill. Some notable landmarks in the area include St. Alban’s Church, Gefion Fountain, and Little Mermaid.

While you might have seen the Little Mermaid statue during a canal tour, you can walk over for a closer look if you’re curious.

• Opening Hours of Kastellet: 6:00 – 20:00
• Opening Hours of St. Alban’s Church: 10:00 – 13:00
• Free entry for everyone

19:00 – Dinner at Reffen

Hop on a harbor bus from Nordre Toldbod (Københavns Havn) to Refshaleøen. Once you arrive, head to Reffen Street Food Market, a vibrant spot that has everything including halal, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals.

You’ll also find craft beers and cocktails.

For those looking to elevate the experience, there’s always Alchemist. It’s a fine dining restaurant offering an unforgettable culinary journey. Perfect if you’re celebrating or just want to indulge.

This combination of the ferry ride and exploring Refshaleøen’s food scene makes for a fun and flavourful evening to end the day.

Day 3 – Carlsberg Brewery Tour and Tivoli Gardens

9:00 – Breakfast

Let’s start our Day 3 of exploration by eating a delicious and convenient breakfast. Located conveniently near your first stop of Day 3 (Carlsberg Brewery Tours), Coffee Collective is a great spot for a morning coffee.

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, Cadence offers options like eggs benedict, smashed avocado toast, pastries, and coffee.

For quick bites, Københavns Bageri and Hart are ideal choices.

Alternatively, consider enjoying breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café close to your accommodation for added convenience before starting your day.

10:00 – Carlsberg Brewery Tours

Our first stop on Day 3 is the exhibition at the home of Carlsberg takes you through Carlsberg’s journey—past, present, and future—on their old brewery grounds.

As you explore, a recreated recording of the Carlsberg family narrates their incredible story. The displays and artifacts are interactive and well-curated, with rooms and videos making it easy to follow.

The visit ends in the Carlsberg Bar, where you can enjoy a free pint of your choice.

Don’t miss the horse stables with their adorable ponies and vintage transport vehicles—they add a fun historical charm.

If you want the complete Carlsberg experience, I’d recommend adding a tasting session or historical site tour (these come with additional charges and selected times).

Just remember, pre-booking is mandatory, even if you have the Copenhagen Card.

Even if you’ve done other brewery tours, this one stands out. It’s immersive, well-designed, and truly worth it.

12:30 – City Hall Square

Hop on a quick bus from Carlsberg to the City Hall Square or Rådhuspladsen. It has a huge open space buzzing with life and energy, right outside the City Hall.

People gather here for concerts, cultural events, and even big celebrations like New Year’s Eve, Pride Parade, and even the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Copenhagen City Hall is used for administrative purposes. While the tower isn’t always accessible, you can join a guided tour to see its stunning interiors.

The iconic clock tower stands tall at 105.6 meters and marks the city’s skyline.

While the Dragon Fountain marks the center of the square, don’t miss the other monuments around like the Lur Blowers statue, and the statue of Hans Christian Andersen.

Another fun thing is to find Denmark’s Zero Kilometer marker in the City Hall Square.

13:00 – Lunch

City Hall Square has some great lunch options nearby.

Hard Rock Cafe is a popular choice with familiar comfort food. For something quick and delicious, try Danish pastries at Buka Bakery.

If you’re in the mood for Danish cuisine, Restaurant Puk is right there with authentic local dishes. A little farther away, but totally worth the visit, is Restaurant Karla—it’s one of my favorites for hearty Danish meals.

14:00 – Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek Museum

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, a museum founded by Carl Jacobsen, the founder of Carlsberg beer. He was a big supporter of the art and his passion for collecting is shown here.

The museum has been open to the public since 1897 and holds over 10,000 art pieces spanning 6,000 years of history.

Inside, you’ll find an impressive mix—ancient Mediterranean sculptures from Roman, Greek, and Egyptian times, alongside 19th-century Danish and French art. The statues, paintings, and archaeological artifacts give a deep insight into cultural history.

Make sure to check out the winter garden—such a peaceful spot—and don’t miss the rooftop terrace for a fantastic view of the city.

• Opening Hours: From Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 to 17:00. On Thursdays between 10:00 and 21:00. Closed on Mondays
• Entry fee: 125 DKK for adults, 95 DKK for students under 27. Free for children under 18 years of age.

16:00 – Tivoli Gardens

Let’s wrap up your three days in Copenhagen with a visit to the iconic Tivoli Gardens!

Tivoli, the world’s second-oldest amusement park, offers 33 rides and fun for everyone, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family.

It transforms beautifully for Easter, Halloween, and Christmas while being just as magical in summer.

If rides aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy free entertainment, parades, and light installations—check the Tivoli app to plan your visit.

I suggest getting an entrance ticket and paying for rides individually rather than opting for the unlimited ride pass unless you’re planning to go for all of it!

• Opening Hours: 11:00 to 22:00
• Tivoli is open 257 days a year. The exact dates change every year. You can check it from the official website.
• Entry Fee: 180 DKK for adults, 90 DKK for children between 3-7 years. Free for kids less than 3 years old. Combo passes, seasonal passes, unlimited ride passes, and all-year passes are available.

19:00 – Dinner at Tivoli Gardens

The Tivoli Food Hall is perfect for a variety of options, with over 30 stalls offering both Danish and international cuisines.

For fine dining within Tivoli, Fru Nimb, Nimb Brasserie, and Grøften are excellent picks. Restaurant Paafuglen and Restaurant Grøften are also great spots to enjoy a meal with a touch of charm and tradition. Plenty of choices for every taste!

If you don’t mind stepping outside Tivoli for dinner, Sticks’n’Sushi at Tivoli Hotel offers delicious sushi alongside amazing city views.

Three Days Copenhagen Itinerary Map

How to Get Around Copenhagen for Three Days?

In Copenhagen, getting around is easy and efficient. You can explore on foot, rent a bike, or take advantage of the free transportation included with the Copenhagen Card. 

The Discover Card covers all public transport, while the Hop Card provides access to Hop-On Hop-Off buses.

You can also buy Hop On Hop Off bus passes separately and use their services. As it stops right at the attractions, you need not worry about figuring about the local transport options.

Rejseplanen and Google Maps is your best guide for bus numbers and routes, making navigation a breeze. Hopping on buses and metros wherever necessary also saves you time and energy while exploring.

Avoid taxis—they’re expensive and not necessary. Honestly, I don’t take taxis as public transport is so much easier and convenient!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Three Days Copenhagen Itinerary

After three days in Copenhagen, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s unique charm, rich history, and vibrant culture.

From wandering through cobblestone streets to tasting classic Danish treats, this itinerary ensures you experience the best of Copenhagen while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries.

Whether this is your first visit or a return trip to Copenhagen, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful city.

So pack your bags, embrace the hygge spirit, and get ready to fall in love with Copenhagen!