COPENHAGEN IN 24 HOURS: YOUR LOCAL GUIDE TO A DAY IN THE CITY
The Danish capital offers a range of historical, cultural, and culinary experiences that can be enjoyed by both locals and tourists; families, couples, and solo travelers. In other words, there's an abundance of opportunities to explore, but if you only have 24 hours in Copenhagen… where do you go? Fear not – on this page, you will find a scheduled guide to spending your 24 hours in Copenhagen in the most optimal way.
08:00 - THE DAY STARTS AT VESTERBRO:
Vesterbro is a vibrant district in Copenhagen, where there is much to see and explore. Take a walk through Vesterbro, where you can experience the creative quarter, the Meatpacking District, Carlsberg City, Copenhagen Distillery, and the older Copenhagen residences.
08:30 - COFFEE AND 'DANISH PASTRY' AT PROLOG:
In Vesterbro – and more precisely in the Meatpacking District – you'll also find a very special gem – the coffee bar Prolog. There aren't many coffee bars in Copenhagen that manage to take coffee brewing to such a high level as Prolog. Hop in for a world-class cup of coffee and some Danish pastry to get the day started!
09:30 - A WALK ALONG TIETGENSGADE:
Tietgensgade is located in the center of the city and therefore close to several well-known areas and attractions. Here you are close to cultural institutions like det nye teater (The New Theater), the iconic amusement park, Tivoli, and not to mention plenty of shopping.
10:00 - EXPERIENCE CHRISTIANSBORG:
Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen is among other things the seat of the Danish Parliament. It is the largest palace in Scandinavia and has been the center of Danish power for more than 800 years. It is a stunningly beautiful building with a unique atmosphere that one must absolutely experience during 24 hours in Copenhagen. While you're there, make sure to stop by the hidden gem, the Royal Library Garden!
11:00 - WALK ALONG HOLMEN'S CANAL AND TOWARDS KONGENS NYTORV:
Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen is among other things the seat of the Danish Parliament. It is the largest palace in Scandinavia and has been the center of Danish power for more than 800 years. It is a stunningly beautiful building with a unique atmosphere that one must absolutely experience during 24 hours in Copenhagen. While you're there, make sure to stop by the hidden gem, the Royal Library Garden!
11:30 - WALK FROM KONGENS NYTORV TO NYHAVN – IT'S TIME FOR LUNCH:
Not far from Kongens Nytorv, you'll find Nyhavn. Nyhavn is one of the most iconic and picturesque parts of Copenhagen. It is known for its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere, and you can also enjoy delicious and classic Danish open sandwiches while you're there. This can be done, among other places, at Skipperkroen, which also has a lovely terrace with views over the canal. Restaurant Cap Horn is also a safe choice – they specialize in open sandwiches.
12:30 - AMALIENBORG, THE CITADEL, AND THE LITTLE MERMAID:
When you only have 24 hours in Copenhagen, you should do yourself the favor of taking the time to see Amalienborg. It is the residence of the Danish royal family in Copenhagen and consists of four palaces. It is a masterpiece of Danish architecture and probably the finest piece of Rococo architecture in Denmark. Bonus info: every day at 12:00 noon there's the changing of the guard at Amalienborg, so come early and watch the Royal Guard in full march! - From there, you can continue through the Citadel and down along Langelinie to see The Little Mermaid.
14:00 - TAKE THE HARBOR BUS TO REFFEN:
Reffen is a street food market and urban area for creativity on Refshaleøen. Here you can not only enjoy a tasty bite and quench your thirst, but often also experience live music and art exhibitions, or just relax and enjoy the view of the harbor. – If you come to Reffen later in the evening, it's a very young and progressive place to party and go out.
16:00 - TAKE A QUICK TRIP TO CHRISTIANIA:
The free town of Christiania is often a major draw for tourists and visitors who have no more than 24 hours in Copenhagen. Here you can experience the quirky and specially made buildings that are so characteristic of Christiania, various art exhibitions, and not least a fantastic atmosphere – especially in the summer months.
17:30 - WALK PAST KNIPPELSBRO ON YOUR WAY TO TIVOLI:
Knippelsbro is a bascule bridge that connects Slotsholmen with Christianshavn. From here, you can see a lot of outstanding architecture and enjoy the beautiful harbor front as you head towards the iconic amusement park: Tivoli.
18:00 - EVENING STROLL IN TIVOLI
Tivoli is one of Copenhagen's real treasures. Whether you opt for ride tickets or not, do yourself the favor of buying entry to the park. The garden is enchanting, and the old roller coasters have a fantastic charm. In the fall, it’s decorated for Halloween, while Christmas at Tivoli is also something quite special. In the summer, you can experience concerts and magical fireworks shows. You can read more about their program here.
19:30 - TIME FOR DINNER:
During your 24 hours in Copenhagen, you’ve probably snacked here and there, but of course, a proper dinner is in order. Especially since Copenhagen is a fantastic place to dine. There are many good spots nearby – and inside Tivoli, for that matter – so it's up to you what you’re in the mood for. Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Grøften in Tivoli, enjoy Italian at Gorm’s Magstræde, taste delight at Brdr. Price, or a burger from Gasoline Grill.
22:00 - COCKTAILS AT 1656:
It’s always a good idea to end the evening with cocktails. 1656 is a hidden cocktail bar, which you can't really see from the street, and therefore you need to know about to find. They serve first-class cocktails in cozy premises and are, in other words, an ideal place to end the evening.
23:00 - IF YOU’RE NOT TIRED YET…
When you only have 24 hours in Copenhagen, you might be up for more. If that's the case, then head down to the Meatpacking District and party with the locals in the old butcher's stalls. You definitely won’t regret it.