How to Make the Most Out of an Extreme Day Trip in Copenhagen

Please note this itinerary is based on flights from Manchester UK. Flight routes and times change regularly so the below times may differ depending on which airport you are flying from and the day you fly.

Author: Adele Clarke

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Although it is one of Europe’s smaller capitals, Copenhagen consistently punches above its weight in global rankings for quality of life, innovation and gastronomy. The city is structured into distinct and colourful neighbourhoods, each with its own character but all within short travelling distance of one another. The airport is a short distance from the centre and this alongside the city's manageable size, safe streets and well-developed infrastructure make Copenhagen one of the easiest Scandinavian cities to visit, even on a tight schedule.

Here is exactly how to do it...

10 a.m. – Land at Copenhagen Airport

Touch down at Copenhagen Airport and head straight for the metro station at the end of Terminal 3. A ticket costs 30 DKK (around 4 euros) and within 15 minutes you are stepping into central Copenhagen. 

11 a.m. – Breakfast at Grød

Start the day with breakfast at Grød, Copenhagen’s cult-favourite porridge spot. The Danes have somehow reinvented oats and made them exciting (and delicious). You can keep it classic with caramel sauce, apple and roasted almonds or opt for berries, chocolate drops and a variety of other toppings instead. They also offer acai bowls and green bowls as well as savoury dishes for lunch. Their dishes are filling without being too heavy, exactly what you need for a long day of walking.  The space is bright and minimal, very Scandinavian, and it eases you into the city’s calm rhythm. There are a few of dotted around the city, but I took the metro to Christianshavn and ate at the one there so I was close to the next stop on our itinerary...

12 p.m. – Wander Freetown Christiania

Founded in the 1970s as an autonomous community, this area sits in the neighbourhood of Christianshavn, across the canal from the centre, and feels like a completely different world. This bohemian community operates as its own sovereign state with its own laws and it even used to have its own currency! Here you will see murals covering old military buildings, handmade houses sitting alongside the water and the atmosphere is creative and slightly rebellious.

 There are rules that need to be followed here such as no photos especially on Pusher Street (I will leave you to figure out why), no running (to avoid causing panic) and there are no cars here. But this area is beautiful and unique so take your time wandering the streets. Browse small craft stalls, admire the artwork and chic cafes and enjoy the slower pace. It is colourful, unconventional and one of the most distinctive parts of Copenhagen.

1:30 p.m. – Lunch in Nyhavn

Head back towards the Inderhavnsbroen (Inner Harbour Bridge) and cross the canal to arrive at Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s most photographed stretch of waterfront. The rows of brightly painted cafes and wooden boats you have most likely seen in the images which pop up whenever you search Copenhagen online are just as charming in person.

For lunch, settle into one of the traditional spots along the canal. Nyhavns Færgekro and Nyhavnskroen both serve classic Danish dishes in historic surroundings. Cap Horn is another reliable option with harbour views and outdoor seating when the weather allows. This is the perfect time to try smørrebrød, Denmark’s famous open-faced rye bread sandwiches. Order toppings like pickled herring, shrimp with dill, or roast beef with crispy onions. Pair it with a Danish beer and take in the atmosphere.

3 p.m. – Walk to The Little Mermaid

After lunch, stroll along the waterfront towards The Little Mermaid statue. She may be smaller than expected, but she remains one of the city’s most iconic sights. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, the statue sits quietly on her rock overlooking the water.

The walk there is just as enjoyable as the landmark itself, with clean harbour views and cyclists gliding past. You could also have a wander around Kastellet, a star shaped 17th century fortress with a windmill on the grounds, which is right by the Little Mermaid statue if you have time.