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The best times to visit Copenhagen, for long summer days, festivals and winter hygge

Aug 4, 2022 • 7 min read

Copenhagen is worth visiting at any time of year, but the city truly shines in summer © olli0815 / Getty Images

With its cool reputation and plentiful sights, Copenhagen attracts tourists all year round. In November and December, Danes go all out for Christmas, making this a magical time to visit the capital.

In the warmer months, Copenhageners take every chance they get for a dip in the ocean that surrounds the city, and for the rest of the year, museums, cafes and historic sights offer plenty of things to see and do . Read on to find out when to visit Copenhagen for the perfect vacation.

Enjoy long sunny days and Scandinavian nights in the peak season (May–August)

The Danish weather is fairly consistent year-round, with mild summers and moderate winters, but because of the country’s geographical location, the light plays a big role. In winter, the sun sets at 3:30pm, leaving the days dark and long.

Copenhagen’s high season runs from May to August. In the summer, the days seem never-ending, and the sun sets as late as 10pm. This magical season attracts visitors who want to experience long, Scandinavian nights. July is the warmest month in Copenhagen, and lots of events, festivals and activities take place in the summer, making this a fun time to visit the city.

Have a cozy, authentic experience in the winter low season (January–March)

In winter, temperatures hover around freezing and the sun can set as early as 3:30pm, meaning dark mornings and afternoons. As a way to cope, hygge was created – the habit of embracing coziness, comfort, contentment and cherishing the little things such as lighting a candle, snuggling up on the couch with warm blankets and spending time with loved ones.

During the winter months, visitors get to see a different, more local and more authentic side to Copenhagen, as tourists take up less space, allowing local culture to come to the forefront. Visitors can also save money on accommodations – winter is the cheapest time to visit Copenhagen. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor activities, from museums to shopping, fine restaurants and cool cafes to enjoy when visiting Copenhagen in the low season.

Enjoy mild weather during the winter and fall shoulder seasons in Copenhagen

The shoulder seasons in Copenhagen are in the fall (September to November) and spring (March, April and May), but the weather can vary widely during either season. You might get lucky and experience summer-like weather in September or May, or if you’re unlucky, these months can be gray, muggy and rainy.

In general, the shoulder seasons are perfect for a city trip if you’re happy spending some time inside, exploring museums and historic attractions and shopping in Copenhagen’s design stores.

January is the time to stay warm indoors

For many Danes, January is a dreary month. Christmas is over, but the dark Scandinavian winter and gray skies remain. Visit to see how the Danes do winter – the peak season for hygge . Cuddle up inside cute cafes with hot mugs of coffee, go shopping in stylish designer stores and take advantage of January sales, or go ice skating at one of the city’s many ice skating rinks.

February is quiet and uncrowded in Copenhagen

February is still considered winter in Copenhagen, but the lighter days are slowly starting to come back. It’s the low season for tourism and you may have the main attractions to yourself. Hang out at all the museums and, if you dare, take a dip in the ocean, Viking-style, at one of the city's beaches . Key Events: Copenhagen Fashion Week , Winter Jazz , CPH Light Festival , Copenhagen Dining Week

The weather starts to warm in March

In March, spring starts to spring, the daylight comes back and locals bid farewell to the Scandinavian winter as Daylight Saving Time begins. The sidewalk cafes start to fill up and the temperatures begin to reach acceptable levels for sitting out. Key Events: CPH:DOX film festival

April brings spring flowers, festivals and flea markets

Spring flowers start to bloom in April. The cherry blossoms are gorgeous and the lighter evenings come back slowly but surely. It’s a good time for outdoor activities – festivals and flea markets open again, and Tivoli Gardens opens for the season. Key Events: Flea market season starts, Sakura festival , Easter, summer season at Tivoli Gardens

May sees big celebrations for Labor Day

May in Denmark is a hit-or-miss for the weather. On a good day, May feels like summertime in Copenhagen; on a bad day, it’s cold and rainy. On 1 May, Copenhagen’s historic labor day celebrations, Første Maj, take place in Fælledparken , a huge park with rides, food trucks, partying and political talks. Key Events: Copenhagen Marathon , spring market at Værnedamsvej, Første Maj (Labor Day), Tivoli Food Festival , Copenhagen Beer Week

June marks the beginning of proper summer

June is the time of year when Copenhageners knock off early from work to take a plunge into the many watering holes in Copenhagen. The city truly comes to life and visitors get to experience seemingly never-ending summer evenings, when the sun only sets after 9:30pm and music events fill the calendar. Key Events: Copenhell , Royal Run , Distortion , Sankt Hans (Danish midsummer), Three Days of Design

July is all warm days and summer crowds

July is peak tourist season in Copenhagen, as most Danes get time off during the summer and many take the opportunity to visit the capital. A must-do at this time of the year is jumping into the canals of Copenhagen to cool down. Key Events: Local music festivals around Copenhagen, Copenhagen Jazz Festival

August is the time to sit out in the evening sun

In August, it’s still summer and still warm. The light Scandinavian summer nights continue, and so does the influx of tourists. Visit Copenhagen in August to enjoy mild weather and sunny days for time outdoors. Key Events: PostNord Denmark Tour , Chart art fair , Copenhagen Fashion Week , Copenhagen Cooking Festival , Copenhagen Opera Festival , Pride Week , Iron Man

September sees temperatures dip

As fall comes around, the temperature drops, but the weather can still show its good side with sunny days and average temperatures that make the perfect backdrop for a city trip. Key Events: Copenhagen Half Marathon , ColorFun , GoldenDays

Fall colors arrive in Copenhagen in October

October is the fall month when the leaves turn orange and yellow, the apple season begins and the weather turns crisp and fresh. Rain is a regular occurrence this time of year, but as the Danes say, “there is no wrong weather, only wrong clothing.” Key Events: Copenhagen Culture Night , Halloween in Tivoli

Winter sweeps in by November

In November, fall gives way to winter – the darkness takes over, and you should expect some rain. The first signs of Christmas slowly begin to show in the streets and you can enjoy your first glass of glögg (spiced wine) of the season. Key Events: Hubertus Hunt , winter ice skating rinks open

December in Copenhagen is full of Christmas spirit

Expect dark, gray days lit up by Christmas magic, and true hygge vibes. If you’re looking for the most magical time to visit Copenhagen, and Christmas is your thing, December is the time – the Danes go all-out for Christmas.

The holiday festivities start in November, when the streets and squares are bedazzled with string lights and Christmas decorations. Christmas markets take place throughout the city, stores are decorated and Tivoli Gardens opens each year as a magical winter wonderland and Christmas elf city.

Visit the Christmas market at Christiania for cute homemade gifts for kids’ stockings. Sip a glass of glögg at the Højbro Plads or Nyhavn Christmas markets. Visit Tivoli Gardens and make sure you try a serving of æbleskiver , a Danish Christmas dessert consisting of round pancakes served with jam and powdered sugar. Key Events: Christmas markets, Tivoli Christmas

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The Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Great Weather, Lower Prices, and Fewer Crowds

These are the best times to visit Copenhagen for every type of traveler.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Copenhagen is an enchanting Scandinavian city that’s known for its grand palaces, gardens, and colorful canal-side districts. The Danish capital offers all kinds of weather over the course of a year, from summer days with 18 hours of sunlight to cold, wintry nights that inspired the Danes to pioneer the cozy concept of hygge .

Powerfocusfotografie/Getty Images

To help you figure out when to visit, we spoke to Cecilia Fonden, a seasoned concierge at d’Angleterre , a member of The Leading Hotels of the World . The city's basic tourist seasons can be broken down as follows:

• High Seasons: June to August, plus the month of December
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to November 
• Low Season: January to March 

Whether you're after sunny weather, smaller crowds, or other highlights, here are the very best times to go to Copenhagen.

Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Smaller Crowds 

To escape the summer crowds, consider visiting Copenhagen during the shoulder seasons. The months of April and October are particularly nice, since they offer the benefits of spring or autumn sunshine and moderate temperatures. In these months, you can stroll around comfortably with just a light jacket — and not have to worry about the sun going down in mid-afternoon, as you would in winter. These are also great times to experience Copenhagen's lively cafe culture, as locals fully embrace the first and last opportunities to enjoy heated terrace seating around the city.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Good Weather

It’s been said that when Danish summer is good, it’s the absolute best. From June to August, you can expect long, bright days and nights (the sun only sets for a few hours) and comfortable temperatures with no extreme heat. The conditions are ideal for enjoying the scenic canals in the center of the city and sandy beaches on the city's northern outskirts, where you’ll find Copenhageners catching some rays. Tourists can also look forward to buzzing sidewalk cafes, seasonal programming at Tivoli Gardens — one of the world’s oldest amusement parks — and an all-around jovial atmosphere. Says Fonden, “Copenhageners are known as some of the happiest people in the world, but they’re extra joyous during the summer."

Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Lower Prices

“Copenhagen is not an inexpensive destination, but during the months of February and March you can actually find good offers,” says Fonden. While the weather might not be anything to brag about, the wealth of museums, great shopping, high-end hotels , and impressive restaurants continue to attract travelers — especially those seeking a deal or an easier time scoring a coveted reservation. “Dozens of Michelin-rated restaurants, welcoming indoor food markets, cozy cafes that serve fresh-baked Danish pastries, and many other delicious attractions make the city the Nordic culinary capital,” says Fonden.  

RomanBabakin/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Biking  

Even though the Danish capital has a great metro system, biking is the preferred form of transportation for locals, with more than 60 percent of Copenhageners riding a bike on a daily basis. If you want to get in on the action yourself, plan your trip between May and September, when the weather is ideal for tooling around Copenhagen on two wheels. “You can go everywhere with your ‘metal horse’ (as Danes call their two-wheeled best friend),” says Fonden. Opt for a bike tour with a certified guide to see the city's many highlights and explore vibrant neighborhoods such as Vesterbro and Nørrebro.

AleksandarNakic/Getty Images

Worst Time to Visit Copenhagen

If you aren’t a fan of gray skies, rain, and cold winds, it’s probably best to avoid Copenhagen in January. The sun is only up from about 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. this time of year, and it’s very often covered by heavy clouds. With all that said, folks who don’t mind a little inclement weather can use a winter trip to experience hygge firsthand. Fonden suggests using this month to visit crowd-free castles and museums and take advantage of discounts on the large pedestrian shopping street of Strøget.

What to Do in Copenhagen During the Summer

Summer is the best season of the year in Denmark. Every year, as soon as the temperature rises, Danes start to put out their summer outfits and hit the nearest public parks, beaches, and swimming areas to enjoy the warm rays of the elusive sun.

In Copenhagen, people crowd the streets and business establishments as soon as the sun is out. Walking around and looking at people is like watching a fashion show as everyone dresses up with their colorful summer outfits matched with their stylish solbriller (sunglasses). Walking by foot or biking is always a personal choice for everyone in this beautiful city. The only thing that is sure, though, is that the city comes to life as businesses like cafes, local food shops, and clothing shops flourish with customers getting hyped by the warm weather.

It is also during the summer when most of the exciting things happen in Denmark. There are numerous sports activities, concerts, art exhibitions, and many more events happening everywhere. On top of that, the days stretch longer so you get to enjoy a lot of activities with your friends and family. So, how can you enjoy your summer in Copenhagen?

What are the best things to do in Copenhagen during the summer?

Bathe in the ocean.  Denmark may not be blessed with natural and massive shorelines and beaches, nevertheless, that does not make such as difference as man-made beaches and havne or harbors offer incredible summer dipping experiences. Places in Copenhagen like Havnebadet in Islands Brygge, Fisketorvet, Amager Strandpark, Nordhavnen, and the entire water stretch of Langelinie and Sydhavnen remain favorite bathing places for locals. Outside Copenhagen, beaches like Hellerup Havn in Hellerup, Charlottenlund Strandpark, Bellevue Strandbad in Klampenborg, and further north are common swimming places for people.

Bike around . What’s a better way to navigate the city than using a bike? Biking in Denmark specifically in Copenhagen during the summer is one of the best things one can do to experience the ultimate Danish summer experience. Drive along the colorful small streets and navigate through the entire city at your own pace. And the best part is, biking lets you experience and enjoy the Danish summer breeze.

See concerts . Summer is concert season in Copenhagen. The music hype is usually kicked-off by street music performances in walking streets and public plazas. Copenhagen Distortion , Denmark’s biggest street party and one of Europe’s biggest annual gatherings,typically highlights the start of summer in Denmark. Roskilde Festival, the largest music festival in Denmark and in Northern Europe, is also a favorite summer must-experience for youngsters and young-at-heart. In the streets of Copenhagen, numerous jazz concerts play during the summer, making the city even more alive and vibrant. There are also select performances in places like Tivoli, public parks like Søndermarken in Frederiksberg, and concert halls like VEGA that you can check out.

Experience nature . Taking a walk in the woods or public parks is a nice breather, especially after a long day. Copenhagen has many public parks where you can walk around or hang out. It’s a good opportunity as this is the time of the year when the plants and trees are at their best, and the birds are at their happiest. Right under the nose of the city is the Botanical Garden which offers a nice escape from the buzz outside.  Going further, a must-visit place outside Copenhagen is Dyrehaven (The Animal Garden), which makes it possible for nature, animals,  and people to co-exist harmoniously. The long walk becomes worth it as you get to be face-to-face with the animals that reside in the vast woodland that used to be a hunting place for the Danish royalty.

Eat ice cream . There are two things that commonly signal the summer season in Copenhagen: shorts and ice cream. When the temperature starts to reach two digits, people tend to grab a scoop or two of their favorite ice cream to show their excitement. Ice cream shops like Ismageriet, Paradis, and Hansens usually have people lined up in long queues. It’s a very Danish summer scene: people eating ice cream.

Loppemarked (Flea Market) . The sunny  season in Copenhagen is loppemarked season . Every weekend during the whole summer , a go – to destination for people are fle a markets all over the city . Usually found in city squares or pl az as , loppemarked  off ers cheap clothes , bags , accessories , and different collect ible items to locals and exp ats . You might as well try it out . You might find a nice summer outfit among the piles of clothes they sell there . We have loppemarked events posted on our events section . Be sure to check them out !

Pick strawberries and peas. A cool family activity to do during summer is to pick strawberries or peas on farms . In some municipalities outside Copenhagen , there are strawberry farms that allow self – picking for customers .   It ’ s a fun experience for kids , especially since you can do free taste tests with the strawberries while you fill your boxes .

Get on a boat or kayak. Either for a sport or just for entertainment, another cool thing to do during the summer is to get on a boat or kayak/canoe. In Copenhagen, the Danish-designed picnic boat company GoBoat offers boating experiences for groups of friends or families who would like to experience sailing along the city canals and waterfronts while bonding at the same time. There are also boat rental shops along the harbor that rent out boats and kayaks/canoes.

Do sports al fresco . D itch the gym and start doing your daily workout routine outdoors . There is no better experience than sweating under the sun and feeling the breeze on your skin . Summer gives people more reason to be even more active , so they head to local parks for j ogging , biking , or doing their own workout routine . F æ lled park en is one of the biggest parks in Copenhagen , where sports enthusiasts and people who just want to do sports go to sweat out .

Go on a picnic with family and/or friends . A common scene during the summer includes people h uddled together under trees , on the grass , or by the beach , and gr illing . Getting together with family and friends is a common practice in Denmark to celebrate the joy of summer . They play games , share food , drink cold beers , and catch up .

Visit the city’s tourist spots . Whether you are a tourist planning on going to Copenhagen during the summer or just a local , summer is the best time for you to enjoy the tourist attractions in this beautiful city . Cl imb on top of the R und et å r ( Round Tower ) or the Church of Our Sav iour in K ø ben h av n to experience a nice pan or amic view of Copenhagen . Visit castles , experience canal tours , and eat local food at local shops like Tor ve hall er ne to complete your Copenhagen tourism experience . 

There are a whole lot of other things you can do to enjoy the summer season. Knowing your preferences and planning ahead is the key to making the most of your Danish summer experiences. But don’t take it slow though, as the weather can be a spoilsport. Take advantage of the good weather now while you can or wait for the grace of the next summer.

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Copenhagen Travel Guide Tips: Best Things to Do and See

Maritime flair , hip cafés and Scandinavian cosiness – welcome to Copenhagen! Copenhagen really is a great city for a getaway. The city has a simple charm and is not repeatedly named as being one of the most liveable cities in the world for nothing.

We have been guests in the Danish capital city several times now – and each time we fall a little more in love with Copenhagen. It’s about time we put together our personal Copenhagen tips for you on our travel blog. So it follows: Our big Copenhagen travel guide with all the highlights, our favourite spots and personal travel tips.

1. City trip to Copenhagen: Overview of initial travel tips & info

2. copenhagen travel guide: best things to do and see, 3. day trip tips for copenhagen, 4. eating and drinking: tips for restaurants & cafés in copenhagen, 5. our hotel tip for copenhagen.

Copenhagen seems to be the perfect combination of everything we love in a city: Lots of water, plenty of greenery, imposing buildings and a cosy atmosphere. There is even a name for it in Denmark: Hygge . Copenhagen is beautifully hygge.

What else do you need to know about Copenhagen? We have gathered the most important points for you:

• Copenhagen is located by the sea . This gives the Scandinavian city a maritime flair, that is also reflected in the cuisine, for example.
• Unfortunately, Copenhagen is quite expensive . This starts with the accommodation prices and carries on to the restaurants. So it’s best to allow a little more budget for your city trip.
• People love cycling in Copenhagen. The city is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in Europe. If you like, you can hire a bike when you’re there to explore the city.
• The weather in Copenhagen can be quite variable. Generally, we recommend summer as the best travel time (June to August). Although the temperatures are pleasantly mild during that time, it is hardly ever gets properly hot.

How many days should I spend in Copenhagen?

We recommend all those who are new to Copenhagen to plan to stay at least three nights . The city is not gigantic, so you can easily explore the main attractions and corners in Copenhagen during this time.

Of course, more time is always good. So, if you would prefer to have a relaxing stay then feel free to stay longer. Copenhagen will also definitely not get boring if you stay 4 or 5 nights – that way it also allows time for some day trips. (Of course, we reveal our tips further down in this travel guide.)

Nyhavn: THE postcard motif in Copenhagen

What is the best way to start a trip to the city of Copenhagen? Our suggestion: With a stroll through Nyhavn (in English: “New Port”). With its colourful, crooked houses , Nyhavn is quite rightfully Copenhagen’s most popular photo motif.

Nyhavn is anything but a secret. Or (to put it in other words): The area is the most touristy spot in Copenhagen. They try to entice you into boat tours, or a restaurant visit on every corner. But if you move slightly out of the hustle and bustle, then you can enjoy Nyhavn in a more relaxed manner. Our tip for anyone who wants to experience Nyhavn in peace: Come in the morning!

The Little Mermaid: Copenhagen’s landmark

Surprisingly small & a little unspectacular – this is the initial impression of many people who stand before the little mermaid for the first time. The little mermaid really lives up to her name. At around 125cm high, she is one of the smallest landmarks in the world.

The bronze statue at Copenhagen’s port exudes a calm presence despite all the crowds, which fascinated us in a strange way. She sits just a few metres from the shore on a rock. The little mermaid was built based on the fairytale of the same name by the most famous Danish author, Hans Christian Anderson .

Tip #1 : You can quite easily walk from Nyhavn to the little mermaid. The stroll along the shore is really nice and highly recommended. (You also pass by the Amalienborg palace – more about this soon.)

Tip #2 : Very close by the little mermaid are St. Alban’s Church and Copenhagen Castle. Definitely take a walk through – this fortress with its pretty windmill is an oasis of calm. Entrance is free.

Castles in Copenhagen

As hip and modern as Copenhagen can be – the royal flair is difficult to miss. There are some castles and palaces in Copenhagen that are well worth a visit. The following three castle are the most well-known in Copenhagen:

• Amalienborg Palace: This is where Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II lives. You can tell if she’s home by the Danish flag waving on the roof. Then at midday they also have the changing of the guard – one spectacle that you shouldn’t miss if you’re there.
• Rosenborg Castle: This castle is one of the most beautiful sights in Copenhagen. You can find it on the edge of a lovely, landscaped garden. There are several state rooms to admire inside the castle. The Rosenborg Castle is also well worth viewing just from the outside.
• Christiansborg Palace: All good things come in threes. You can find Christiansborg Palace right in the middle of the city centre. Today it is the seat of the Danish Parliament. Just like the other two, you can also view the castle interior.

Our tip : Entry into all three castles is free when you have the Copenhagen Card. So if you are interested in these attractions, purchasing the Copenhagen Card could be worth it.

Frederik’s Church

When standing in front of Amalienborg Palace, Frederik’s Church is hard to miss. Frederik’s Church, with its imposing dome, is one of the most important sacred buildings in Copenhagen. It is also known by the name, the Marbel Church .

You should definitely take a peek inside the church. The architecture is very impressive. Entrance into the church is free. There is only a small admission fee to climb the dome.

Torvehallerne

We present: One of our absolute favourite places in all of Copenhagen and our tip number one for all the foodies. Here in this covered, architecturally beautiful market hall you can purchase fresh food and Danish delicacies. It is very relaxed and stylish here – so don’t expect to find a hectic market.

The best part: There are also a lot of stalls in Torvehallerne where you can either directly enjoy dishes or take them to go. Our tip: Laura’s Bakery has incredible cinnamon rolls. GRØD is popular for breakfast and the Coffee Collective has great coffee.

Christiania

Strange but true: In Copenhagen there is a self-proclaimed free state called Christiania. In the 70s hippies settled on this former military land. Today it is supposedly the largest commune in the world.

But what can you expect in Christiania? To be honest: A very unusual flair with a slightly depressing mood . Yes, Christiania is colourful and quirky where you will find great street art and creative houses. But somehow, we haven’t been able to shake this rather strange feeling on all our visits (there have been several).

The centre of Christiania is Pusher Street. This is where drug dealing takes place on the street. Taking photos along Pusher Street is strictly forbidden. (You should absolutely adhere to this!) But otherwise, you don’t need to worry about safety and you can visit Christiania without any problems.

The Round Tower (Rundetårn)

You shouldn’t leave Copenhagen without seeing the city from above. One of the most famous viewing points in Copenhagen is the Rundetårn (Round Tower in English), which is located right in the city centre.

The architecture is what makes the tower so special: Not a small staircase but a wide, spiral ramp (also said to have been used by horse-drawn carriages once upon a time) takes you up to the top. (Important to know: At the end there is still a small ladder to climb. So, the tower is not without its barriers.)

After the unusual ascent (which is especially a highlight for architecture fans), a really beautiful view over Copenhagen awaits you in all directions. The wrought iron railing makes it easy to take photos through.

Entrance: 40 DKK (free with the Copenhagen Card ) Opening times & more info: Rundetårn (official website)

Assistens Cemetery

A rather unusual attraction in Copenhagen is located north of the city, more precisely in the Nørrebro district. Assistens Cemetery (called “Assistens Kirkegård” in Danish) is the most well-known cemetery in Copenhagen. There are countless famous people buried here, including for example the author Hans Christian Andersen or the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard.

Here you can find not only a cemetery, but also quite an extensive park . The locals use the cemetery park for long walks or jogging. So, if you would like to spend some time out in the greenery, then we can highly recommend a visit to Assistens Cemetery.  

Day trip to Sweden: One day in Malmö

Sit down in the train – and bam, a good 30 minutes later you’re in a different country . The thought that Sweden is only a hop and a skip away from Copenhagen couldn’t escape us, so we decided on taking a wee trip to Malmö.

Getting there from Copenhagen

Just the trip from Copenhagen to Malmö is something special in itself: Here you cross the legendary Øresund Bridge , which connects Denmark and Sweden with each other.

We ourselves took the train , but it is also possible to take a bus. The train ride from Copenhagen Train Station takes around 40 minutes and costs about 13 euros (one-way). The train station in Malmö is centrally located, so you can simply start exploring the city on foot.

Attractions in Malmö

It is best to start your day trip in Malmö’s pretty old town, called Gamla Staden . The old town is a picturesque mix of colourful houses, brick buildings and paved alleyways. Places worth seeing include Lilla Tor or the Stortorget.

In the west of the old town lies the second main attraction in Malmö: the castle (Malmöhus) with its two surrounding parks ( Slottsträdgården and Kungsparken ). An oasis of peace, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll.

It is not very far from the castle to the most well-known market in Malmö, Malmö Saluhall . Here you can buy fresh food in this very stylish and calm market hall as well as sit down in one of the small restaurants and cafés they have there.

In case you still have time you could, for example, make a stopover at the futuristic city library , or take a detour to Västra Hamnen . Here a modern and innovative district was developed at a former shipping yard site. Västra Hamnen is said to be climate neutral and one of the most exclusive residential areas in Malmö. You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or taste your way around the great cafés.

Day trip to the beach

Lonely dunes & the sound of waves – how does that sound? If you are drawn to nature, then we can highly recommend this trip to the beach. There are many beaches close to Copenhagen which you can visit. Important to know: It is very rarely properly hot in Denmark – so if you want to jump in, it may take some convincing.

Beach tips close to Copenhagen

• Amager Strandpark: The largest and most well-known beach around Copenhagen is located in this protected local recreation area. You can reach the beach from the city centre on the subway. In summer it can be quite crowded.
• Ishøy Beach: This beach is more peaceful and natural. Perfect for a bit of that Baltic Sea feeling.

The good news first: Copenhagen is a paradise for foodies ! Here they have an incredible amount of hip eateries, and you can – if you like – spend the whole day feasting your way from one café to the next.

The bad news: The prices are not very cheap. For an ordinary restaurant, you will need to allow for around 15 to 20 euro for a main meal. That’s not ideal and you could easily spend around 60 to 80 euros for a dinner for two people.

The following two specialties are typical Danish food and found all over Copenhagen:

• Smørrebrød: Which sounds fancy, is really ‘just’ rye bread. But there are no limits to creativity when it comes to the choice of ingredients.
• Hot Dog: Of course, how could it be any other way? Danish hot dogs are sold at small stalls around the streets of Copenhagen. Luckily, there are now more and more vegetarian hot dogs, e.g. as found at DØP.

Favourite culinary spots in Copenhagen

Reffen: This great street food market takes place at a former shipping yard area. Here in the colourful containers, you can try delicious food from all over the world. From tacos to Smørrebrød, from Hawaii to Nepal, whether meat or vegan – there is really something for everyone. Highly recommended!

Paludan Bog & Café: Eating breakfast between the books! In café Paludan you are seated in the middle of a bookstore. We can recommend a visit just for the unusual location alone. They have breakfast, lunch dishes and a whole range of cakes and slices. The prices are moderate by Danish standards. 

Mother: This very (!) hyped up restaurant serves what is said to be the best pizza in Copenhagen. Whether that is true, we cannot say, but we definitely enjoyed it. Important: The wait times are especially long during the weekend. It is best to reserve a table!

GRØD: Grød translated means porridge and this café specializes in exactly that. Here you can put together your favourite porridge yourself with a wide variety of toppings. There are now many locations in Copenhagen – including the Torvehallerne. A really great tip for a healthy and not to expensive breakfast or lunch meal.  

Vaekst: Young Scandinavian cooking of the highest quality in a really cool location – if that is what you are searching for, then get yourself to Vaekst. They serve a three-course meal here every evening. The restaurant is highly praised for its vegetarian version of the menu. Here you are seated in a kind of greenhouse – pretty cool.

Flottenheimer: Do you want to enjoy a simple lunch in the city centre? Then we recommend this cosy café. They have international dishes on the menu, such as burgers and sandwiches.

Are you looking for a great boutique hotel for your city trip to Copenhagen? Then we can only warmly recommend Hotel Skt Petri .

The rooms are elegant and very comfortably arranged with a very comfortable bed. Small tip: Make sure that you don’t choose a room with a window on the inside. This can be clearly seen in the description.

The hotel location could hardly be any better for a city trip to Copenhagen. You are situated right in the centre and many sights are within walking distance (such as Nyhavn, the Rundetårn or the Torvehallerne).

Our conclusion: The range of affordable, yet stylish boutique hotels in Copenhagen is unfortunately limited. However, Hotel Skt Petri is really an exception and highly recommendable.

You can book the hotel here: Hotel Skt Petri

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Weather & Climate

Copenhagen Airport Guide

Getting Around Copenhagen

What to Pack

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Copenhagen

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

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Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Copenhagen

Ashley Niedringhaus is an ASME-nominated journalist and author who specializes in crafting bespoke city guides, including a comprehensive guide to Copenhagen for TripSavvy.

The best times to visit Copenhagen are May through September. Still, almost every month has something to offer, from never-ending sunny days to festive Christmas markets and an abundance of hygge . Copenhagen attracts visitors all year, but there is an influx during July and August when most Danes retreat to their summer homes or fly south to Italy or Greece. 

Use this guide to help pick the best time to explore the hospitable city, but no matter when you visit, come prepared to bike alongside the locals who have a rain, snow, or shine attitude towards their wheeled transportation.

Peak Season

Danish schools let out in mid-June, and that's the unofficial kick-off to summer. Most Danes take a lengthy vacation in July, and August is busy with European visitors. But don't get too worried about the crowds: Copenhagen feels full of life and fun, rather than slogged down with big bus tours, and everyone seems happy, relaxed, and enjoying the extra-long summer days. 

The Weather & Pricing in Copenhagen 

Copenhagen's weather follows the four seasons of the northern hemisphere, and there's a 30-degree swing between summer's peak (highs of 68 degrees F in July and August) and winter's chill (highs of 35 degrees F in January and February). Snow is a rare occurrence in winter, but it's best to pack rain gear and at least one sweater no matter when you visit.   

Is your credit card ready? Copenhagen, as with the rest of Scandinavia, isn't a cheap date. Deal hunters will find good flights and accommodation prices from September to November; the weather will be nice, too. 

Once winter kicks in, rates drop even further from December to February, but they see a brief spike during Christmas. While the price might be tempting, remember the sun will set before dinner, so sightseeing hours will be limited, and the weather is pretty gloomy. 

March to May brings fewer rain showers and the reopening of the famed Tivoli Gardens in April, a major draw to visitors of all ages. Sacrificing the warmer summer weather for a good deal on a hotel and fewer visitors could be a win-win for many travelers. 

June to August is when Copenhagen really shows off. The sun is shining, and canals are filled with boats and kayaks while swimmers cool off between sunbathing sessions with dips in the (slightly) chilled water. Despite July being the biggest month for Danes to jet off on vacation, this is the height of the tourist season for Denmark and Scandinavia. Ever wonder why people say Denmark is one of the happiest countries? Visit in July or August, and you'll consider applying for residency. 

With the Christmas lights turned off, the festivities of December over, and the fireworks from New Year's Eve gone, the gloom of January's short days (sunrise at 8 a.m. and sunset at 4:30 p.m.) hangs over the city. Expect gray skies and bitter winds but fewer crowds at museums. 

By the end of the month, the sun rises and sets a full hour earlier and later, and that extra two hours of daylight give the winter-worn Danes hope for sunny days. While there might be pockets of sunshine here and there, February's weather feels similar to January and the majority of days are gloomy. 

Events to check out:

• Vinterjazz is a three-week-long winter version of the fantastic summertime jazz festival, and jazz talents from the Nordics perform in cozy bars and cafes to intimate audiences.
• The Danes take advantage of the early darkness and dot the city with architectural lighting and designs created by Danish and international artists. Most displays around the city are available for public viewing for three weeks. 

The doldrums of winter still hang in the air, but things are looking up as the days get longer.

April is a toss-up when it comes to weather, so come ready for glorious spring days, rain, hail, and winds that make city biking a chore—possibly all in the same day.

The Easter holidays are public holidays in Denmark, and many stores and museums have limited hours. Easter lunch, filled with lamb, herring, and schnapps is a beloved tradition. Tuborg, a local brewery, sells their limited edition Easter beer in April. 

• CPH:DOX brings acclaimed documentary films to Copenhagen along with Q&As with film markers and panel discussions.
• Typically in the middle of the month, Tivoli Gardens reopens after its winter break. Check their website for exact dates.

Ah, May. The sun is regularly shining and it's almost like you can feel the city's residents breathe a collective sigh of relief as they pack away their sunlamps and head outdoors for the real deal. While not quite the peak tourist season, the number of visitors starts to pick-up. 

• Spring Festival is a week-long international theatre festival that showcases acrobats, puppet shows, dance performances, and more.
• For five days in late May or early June, the streets and clubs come alive when Distortion takes over with DJ sets, block parties, street food, and silent raves. 

The first two weeks of June are quieter than the end of the month when school children go on a seven-week break starting in mid-June. But moods are lifted, temps are warming up, outdoor dining is back in full force, and social events fill the calendars. 

Events to check out: 

• The beloved Queen Margrethe II celebrates her birthday on April 16 and will wave to a crowd of people at noon from the main balcony of Amalienborg Palace. 
• Skt Hans Aften celebrates the shortest night of the year (June 23) with bonfires at the beaches and in locals' backyards. There's drinking, singing of songs, and even the burning of a witch effigy on a pyre. 

Locals who haven't taken a multi-week summer holiday yet might be extra cranky and quick to ding their bike bell at confused or slow tourists on bikes or anyone who crosses the bike lane on foot. But don't let a grouchy interaction sour you, the sunny days put everyone in a bright disposition. Be sure to pack a raincoat for intermittent showers. One of the city's best festivals, the annual Copenhagen Jazz Festival, takes place this month and it's worth experiencing for a few days. 

• For 10 days in early July, the Copenhagen Jazz Festival pops up on street corners, sunny park lawns, cafes, large scale venues, and wine bars, delighting patrons with jazz in multiple disciplines from local and international talents. 
• CPH Opera Festival runs for 11 days in either July or August, and world-class performers take over streets, canal boats, markets, and other nontraditional venues.
• Roskilde Festival takes place 30 minutes outside of the center of Copenhagen in late June and early July. The eight-day festival celebrates art, music, activism, and freedom, according to the non-profit group that runs it, and draws international talents like Chance the Rapper and Bob Dylan to headline. Many young people will take the week off work to camp on the festival grounds, and the whole thing feels like Danish Coachella. Tickets sell out quickly. 

The famous work-life balance in Denmark is really apparent when a warm summer day hits around 3 p.m. on a Thursday or Friday, and it feels like the entire city is outside. At the end of the month, school is back in session, and the city is at its busiest, feeling alive and energetic. 

• For 10 days at the end of August, Scandinavia's largest food festival— Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival —takes place around town. There's lots of eating, of course, along with symposiums on things like food deserts and sustainability and cooking demonstrations.
• Strom is an EDM-lovers dream, and the multi-day festival includes raves, dance parties, DJ sets, and other events.
• The annual Copenhagen Pride each August brings out the rainbow flags and allies who support the queer community. There's a parade on Saturday as well as cultural events, like political forums, film screenings, and concerts.
• For three days in August, Kulturhavn hosts more than 100 cultural events on Copenhagen's waterways, like dance, music, children's activities, sports, sustainability, and workshops, as well as guided tours by kayak in Copenhagen harbor. All events are free.

The weather and the cost of airfare begin to drop in September as the cooler weather transforms the city's large public parks with colorful leaves.  

• While March features a documentary film festival, September's CPH:PIX highlights thought-provoking feature films, many of which have director Q&A or talks afterward.
• The Copenhagen Blues Festival runs from the end of September into early October each year and highlights local and international artists. 
• Denmark is known for its great design, and during 3daysofdesign , visitors will have the chance to get up close with furniture makers, lighting, and interior designers, and others in the creative space. Talks and exhibitions are typically centered around a singular theme, which in the past included sustainability. Check the website for exact dates.

Much like April, the weather in October can be unpredictable as sunshine gives way to sleet. That flip-flopping weather can make it hard to pack but come prepared with layers and a good rain jacket. 

• Always one for embracing a theme, Tivoli Gardens goes all out for Halloween (mid-October to early November) with spooky rides, a haunted house, pumpkin carvings, and ghosts, scarecrows, and spiders decorating the theme park. 
• Typically the second Friday of October brings late-night museum-goers together for Culture Night , where popular event spaces, like galleries and museums, stay open late and hold special events. 
• The LGBTQ community hosts (yup, you guessed it) another film festival at the end of October and early November. Check-out the full lineup online . 

Rain, rain go away. Not in November, it seems. This wet month won't slow down the locals, and they wear head to toe rain suits as they ride their bikes or take the Metro. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em, we say; stylish rain gear is available at the trendy Rains clothing store. 

Most importantly, November welcomes the holiday season, with festive markets, warm glasses of glogg , and canopies of sparkly lights cover the walking streets. It's festive, cozy, and will warm the hearts of any Grinch out there. 

• When Halloween ends, Tivoli closes for two weeks before reopening its world of Christmas magic in mid-November. Enjoy a holiday market, warm glogg , and festive lights as you go for a stroll. Book tickets to see performances of "The Nutcracker" from the end of November through December. 
• The Royal Copenhagen flagship store transforms its third floor with stunning tablescapes from the end of November into December. 
• Hotel D'Angleterre in the center of town goes all out with their holiday decorations, and the unveiling of the year's theme occurs while the Royal band performs. This festive occasion is held around the third week of November. Go all-out and pop in for a glass of their famous white glogg , made with white wine and apricots, by the hotel's fireplace. 
• On the first Friday in November, Tuborg debuts it's much-loved Christmas beer, with beer trucks handing out free bottles to drunken Santas in crowded bars. While smaller in scale, J-Day can reach levels akin to Santacon in New York City, which may or may not be your thing. Either way, pop in for a free beer and to sing "All I Want for Christmas is You" with a new Danish BFF. 

Holiday magic makes everything better, it seems, and December in Copenhagen is full of Christmas cheer. While the dark days of winter aren't great for sightseeing, early December is a great time to kick off the holidays, settle into a cozy cafe, or leisurely shop at a Julemarked (Christmas market). Remember to bundle up to face the low-to-mid-30s F temps. 

• On the first Sunday in Advent, the 65-foot-tall spruce tree outside City Hall is illuminated by Santa Clause. The mayor and the fire brigade join in the fun, too, and around 3:30 p.m., they turn on the tree. 
• Kayaks illuminated with Christmas lights glide through Nyhavn canal to celebrate Saint Lucia Day on December 13. You'll need a level two kayak certification to join the fun, but it's warm off the water, and you can have a drink while you watch. 

Restaurant Availability 

If you feel your trip won't be complete without checking a world-famous restaurant off your foodie bucket list, you might consider booking the reservation before the flight. Noma and Alchemist, two of the most sought after restaurants, open up bookings four to six months in advance, but they close for two two-week-long periods, typically around mid-July to mid-August and the week before Christmas until early January. 

If a highly ranked restaurant isn't on your to-do list, you'll find the important tourist season trumps the need for a summer break, and museums and tour operators are more than happy to have your business. There will be restaurants that close for a summer break, but their websites will state their closing ( "lukket" ) times during the summer holidays ( "sommerferie" ). 

Christmas in Denmark 

From mid-November until the end of December, Copenhagen fully embraces the idea of hygge , and the city comes alive with festive lights, holiday markets, and competitions to see who makes the best glogg . The bright lights, performances of The Nutcracker at Tivoli, gorgeous holiday decorations at Hotel D'Angleterre, and Royal Copenhagen's gorgeous tablescapes help (temporarily) shake the blues of gloomy weather and the sun setting before dinnertime. 

The Danes take their Christmas celebrations very seriously, and it's hard to imagine a quieter capital city than Copenhagen on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and even the day after Christmas. Almost every shop, restaurant, and grocery store shuts down Dec. 24 to 26, and it can feel like a ghost town for visitors. If your visit includes other Scandinavian destinations, remember that most Nordic countries will follow a similar holiday pattern, and small fjord towns will go into full hibernation. Visiting this part of the world during winter is best if winter sports are the top draw. 

The best time to visit Copenhagen for good weather is from May to September. The city comes alive in the summer months and you'll find locals and visitors enjoying the many beautiful parks.

Copenhagen is an expensive destination and visitors can save money by visiting in the cold winter months. After the Christmas holidays, look for hotel deals in January and February—and don't forget to bundle up.

December, January, and February are the coldest months in Copenhagen, with nighttime temperatures often dipping below freezing. Snow isn't common in the city, but it is a possibility.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Copenhagen, Denmark, Year Round." Retrieved February 23, 2021.

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Summer in Copenhagen: Biking, Dining and Celebrating

Add the Tour de France — starting in Denmark’s capital this year — to the roster of summer activities, which also includes music festivals, design exhibitions and indulging in buttery pastries.

By Lisa Abend

Over the course of the coronavirus pandemic, Copenhagen somehow seems only to have become more thoroughly itself. With restrictions long gone (they were lifted in January) and summer at hand, the city’s outdoor spaces, designed to extract every bit of joy from summer, have multiplied. There are more harborside spots to sip wine and swim, while devotion to environmental sustainability has generated an entirely new hangout for the green-minded. The Danish fetish for buttery pastries has transformed itself into a veritable eruption of new bakeries, while the broader dining scene — already world class — has become bigger and better. And in a city where bikes already constitute the primary method of transportation, Copenhagen is preparing for its cycling apotheosis: The Tour de France starts here on July 1.

What’s happening

For the first time in history, the Tour de France’s Grand Depart begins in Denmark, with a 13-kilometer time trial through the streets of Copenhagen before moving on, during Days 2 and 3, to stages that start farther west in Roskilde and Vejle. On June 29, the competing teams will be presented first on a ride through the city and then in a special event, complete with live music, at Tivoli Gardens. The first day’s race ends at Copenhagen’s city hall, but a big cycling-themed party will take place in Fælledparkenon Days 1 and 2, with live music, bike games for kids and large screens for watching. On the morning of July 2, the route will open for cyclists of all skill levels to bike a “Tour de Copenhagen.”

But that will hardly be the only celebration. Danes love a festival, and they are greeting a summer calendar that is once again full of them with palpable relief. This year, all the old favorites — from the heavy metal paroxysms of Copenhell and smooth vibes of the Copenhagen Jazz Festival to the gastronomic excesses of Copenhagen Cooking to the highbrow discussions of the Louisiana Literature Festival are back, and have been complemented with new additions like Syd for Solen . But the biggest of all — more rite of passage than mere festival — is Roskilde , which takes place June 29 to July 2. This year it will attempt to channel all that pent-up energy with a postponed 50th-anniversary celebration and the largest roster — 132 acts, including Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, Post Malone and the Strokes — in its history.

What to see

Several of Copenhagen’s cultural institutions used the pandemic to finish long-planned improvements. The Danish Design Museum , which for a while was basically a warren of rooms filled with chairs, reopens on June 19 after a two-year restoration, with an exhibition on how design can address global challenges like climate change and pandemics. And one of Europe’s finest collections of 19th-century French art got a new showcase earlier this year when Ordrupgaard debuted its new wing, underground but open to the sky, on the edge of the city.

But perhaps the most topically relevant renewal is the Freedom Museum . Formerly called the Museum of the Danish Resistance, it was destroyed by arson in 2013, and has been entirely rebuilt from the ground up. Its interactive exploration of how Germany’s largely unobstructed takeover of Denmark in 1940 gradually transitioned into active resistance that sabotaged German weapons and mustered a volunteer fleet of fishing boats to spirit the country’s Jews to safety makes for an especially poignant lesson these days.

Where to eat

Spurred perhaps by two long lockdowns in which takeaway coffee and cake were among the few pleasures left, the city that invented the Danish (though here they’re called wienerbrød) has entered a new Golden Age of pastry. There’s now an independent, chef-led bakery in almost every neighborhood, and often long lines stretching down the sidewalk. Some of the newest to try: Albatross & Venner , Benji and Ard — and that’s not counting Apotek 57 and Studio X , two cafes attached to different design shops, where they also do some mouthwatering in-house baking.

The rest of the dining scene is thriving as well — maybe a little too much. For all its acclaim as an international dining destination, prepandemic Copenhagen still had a hard time convincing its locals that restaurants were for more than just birthday celebrations and weekend date nights. But since restrictions lifted in January, they seem to have gotten the message; suddenly places at all levels of the food chain are fully booked most nights.

Luckily, there’s a slew of new places to meet the demand. Chef Christian Puglisi’s groundbreaking Relæ and his natural wine bar, Manfreds, both closed during the pandemic, but from those losses, three exceptional spots have risen. At Koan , housed in what was Relæ, the chef Kristian Baumann injects some of the flavors and techniques of his Korean heritage into his precision-cut Nordic cuisine, for dishes like a plump, peppery mandu with fjord shrimp or a baked Jerusalem artichoke served with a luscious langoustine cream. Across the street, in the cramped, convivial space that was Manfreds, its former chef, Mathias Silberbauer, serves joie de vivre at Silberbauers Bistro, along with relaxed Provençal cooking with an emphasis on bracingly fresh seafood and soul-satisfying comforts like onion tart and white bean stew.

After a residency at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, the chef Jonathan Tam returned to Copenhagen and opened Jatak , an intimate jewel of a restaurant designed by his wife, Sara Frilund, where the refined dishes — delicate curves of raw brill twinned with sweet steamed pumpkin; strips of endive whose crisp bitterness is both enhanced and softened with a housemade sesame sauce — are a deeply personal reflection of Mr. Tam’s Cantonese background, his many years as head chef of the vegetable-forward Relæ, and his commitment to local produce.

New dining neighborhoods are also emerging. Tucked into a postage-stamp of a forest on the city’s southwestern edge, Banegården used to house Copenhagen’s railway works, but the timbered buildings have now been repurposed by green food businesses, including a farm shop, a locavore restaurant and, yes, a bakery — one with excellent croissants and a commitment to sustainability so serious that there are no disposable cups; you can only get takeaway coffee via a deposit system for the thermos-style cups.

But perhaps the most exciting transformation is of the stretch along the southern end of the city’s lakes. At Propaganda , Youra Kim’s Korean fried chicken, all stickiness and spice, is already iconic, and it, as well as her other high-voltage dishes, like the knockout grilled white asparagus and tteok, pairs well with the impressive selection of natural wines. And at Brasserie Prins , which manages to be cozy without tipping over into twee, the American-born chef Dave Harrison draws on his time cooking in Paris to make some very old-school French dishes — plush quenelles in sauce Americaine, a crisp pan-fried veal brain, even a stalwart île flottante — somehow seem utterly modern.

Where to stay

A city that has long lagged in interesting places to stay is finally catching up by transforming architecturally interesting spaces with history into inviting new hotels. A former university building centrally located behind the Round Tower, has been transformed into 25Hours Copenhagen (starting at 1,296 kroner, or about $182, double occupancy), where the colorful rooms offer a nice visual break from all that Scandi minimalism, while the city’s former post office, across from Tivoli Gardens and Central Station, has morphed into the stately Villa Hotel (rates start at 2,331 kroner). Kanalhuset (also starting at 2,331 kroner) has turned a canalside home in the very hygge neighborhood of Christianshavn into a beautifully designed apartment-hotel that offers optional communal dinners each night. And two new places offer an even more individualistic experience: the bright, welcoming houseboat Kaj (starting at 3,000 kroner), which comes with its own kayaks for guests to use, and the intensely chic the Darling (starting at 7,440 kroner), which showcases Danish design and is hung with works from a changing roster of acclaimed local artists.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

An earlier version of this article misstated the year that Germany began its occupation of Denmark. It was 1940, not 1941.

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Copenhagen   Travel Guide

Best Times To Visit Copenhagen

The best time to visit Copenhagen is from March to May or between June and August – depending on what you're looking for. While the summer brings the warmest weather and a number of popular, large-scale events, those looking for lower rates and fewer crowds can still enjoy the mild weather in the spring. From May through September, the streets come alive as cafes spill to the sidewalks and festivals fill the air with music. Beginning in October, the city goes into hibernation for the winter; the only exception is December, when hotels fill for holiday celebrations.  

Weather in Copenhagen

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Copenhagen

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary For First-Timers

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I recently spent 3 days in Copenhagen and – despite spending a fair bit of money – had a fantastic time. There’s so much to see and do in the capital of Denmark hence I decided to put together this Copenhagen itinerary. I’ll include the mistakes I made (so you don’t have to), what’s worth visiting, what’s not, and general tips ‘n’ tricks for your visit.

COPENHAGEN ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours & activites: GetYourGuide Getting there: Flight ( Skyscanner ), Bus ( FlixBus ) , Train ( Omio ) Stay connected: Airalo e-SIM Travel insurance: True Traveller (European travellers) / Hey Mundo (other nationalities) / Safety Wing (digital nomads)

Visiting Copenhagen? Check out my other blogs:

• Freetown Christiania travel guide: rules & tips
• Where to find cheap brunch and breakfast in Copenhagen

How to get around Copenhagen

Even though Copenhagen can be an expensive city to visit, you’ll save money based on the fact it’s easy to get around on foot . Like when I spend 3 days in Budapest , I mainly explored on foot and took the odd journey when necessary. In Copenhagen, there are very few hills and you’ll soak up the best sights in the city while walking about. Just make sure you have warm, waterproof shoes if visiting in the winter (a lesson I learnt the hard way). If the idea of 3 days in Copenhagen on foot sounds tiring, another option is to hire a bicycle . The locals are big fans of cycling and you’ll find bike lanes all over the city. Just make sure not to walk in them; you won’t win over the locals by upsetting the bike-related status quo! Simply unlock a Bycyklen  via the mobile app. These electric bikes cost as little as 0.38 DKK a minute. Copenhagen also has a clean, efficient public transport network . To take the metro or bus, purchase individual tickets from ticket machines or 7-Eleven shops in the station. These tickets remain valid for 90 minutes so don’t purchase a bunch in advance. For ease and convenience, do what the locals do and purchase a Rejsekort card . This lets you tap on and off without messing around at the ticket machine. It also offers 20% off (aside from during rush hour).

A tourist-friendly option for those spending 3 days in Copenhagen is purchasing a Copenhagen Card. This includes all your transport plus entry to 80+ museums and attractions in Copenhagen. Book your Copenhagen Card .

Getting to Copenhagen

By air: Copenhagen Airport is well-connected with other European capitals. I managed to find a flight from London for £20! I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. By train: Although it’s not as well connected by train as cities in central Europe, there’s an efficient train network connecting to Malmo, Lund, Stockholm (Sweden) and Hamburg (Germany). Use Omio to book trains . By bus: Around Europe, I use FlixBus . You can travel between Copenhagen and Malmo from €9 and Hamburg for €19.

Getting from Copenhagen airport to the city

Both the metro and train run from Terminal 3 of Copenhagen Airport to the city , taking just 15 minutes. The train arrives into Copenhagen Central Station and the metro travels to Kongens Nytorv which connects to metro line M3, linking up the whole city.

How expensive is Copenhagen?

This was the question on my lips while planning my Copenhagen itinerary. Could I afford castle visits and hipster brunches after the horror stories I’d heard about Copenhagen prices? Although Copenhagen IS pricey, you can travel on a budget. I’ll share my budget tips further down but for now, here’s a quick run-down of average Copenhagen prices :

• Cup of coffee – 35 DKK
• Dish at food market – 85 DKK
• Main meal in a restaurant – 110 DKK
• Glass of wine – 50 DKK
• Pint of beer – 45 DKK.

Best time to visit Copenhagen

Summer in Copenhagen (June to August) is the best season for good weather and endlessly long evenings but prepare for the city to be busy with visitors. Spring is a lovely time to visit: slightly quieter and beginning to warm up. If you can handle the cold (and darkness from 3pm), enjoy a winter trip to Copenhagen. November and December are atmospheric with countless Christmas markets to visit.

Stay connected if you don’t have an EU SIM card – download an Airalo e-SIM before your trip and connect as soon as you arrive. Browse e-SIMs from €4 .

Where to stay during 3 days in Copenhagen

Hostel: I stayed at Copenhagen Downtown Hostel , which was a great option for meeting other travellers, with communal dinners and a bar. If you’re visiting on a budget, take advantage of their breakfast buffet and happy hour. You won’t find cheaper drinks elsewhere! Check availability from € 37 .

Budget hotel: Urban House Copenhagen is inside a lovely old building with clean comfy rooms. There’s an outside food and bar area with a fantastic menu, plus regular events, including live music, bike tours and yoga classes. Check availability for € 40 or €110 for a private room . 

Mid-range: CPH Hotel is in one of Copenhagen’s hippest areas, just a 7-minute walk from Central Station. Rooms are designed with Scandinavian-style details, and the property includes a pool, sauna and coffee house. Check availability from € 179 .

Splash-out: Decorated with murals by local Danish artists and with landmark city views throughout, citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen has thought of all the touches to create a memorable stay. Guests can also enjoy a buffet breakfast and will be given a room iPad to control their bedroom light, temperature and more. Check availability from € 309 .

Apartment : NORD Hotel Apartments have all your amenities, laundry facilities, TV and a fully-equipped kitchen. Check availability and book from € 235 .

Browse all Copenhagen accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

3 day Copenhagen itinerary

Let’s get stuck in! This is my suggested itinerary for 3 days in Copenhagen followed by my personal food and drinks recommendations and some frugal budget tips…

The most popular tours in Copenhagen:

• 🏰 Head out of Copenhagen for the day on this guided small-group tour and visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed castles and cathedrals
• 🍲 Dip into the trendy food and restaurant scene of the Danish capital on this half-day Copenhagen food and walking tour
• 🚢 Explore by water on this Copenhagen boat tour
• 🌄 Explore two hidden gems of Denmark – Møns Klint and Forest Tower on this tour
• 🚲 Discover the beauty of Copenhagen on two wheels at with this guided bike ride

Copenhagen itinerary – day 1

I love to start my sightseeing in a new city by touring the city centre and seeing the popular sights before moving on to hidden gems and more unusual attractions later. During the first morning of my Copenhagen itinerary, I did what I usually do in a new place…

Take a free walking tour

I love a free walking tour and have done them in Cape Town, Munich and London this year. Begin your Copenhagen itinerary by seeing the top sights and learning about Danish culture.

Things I learnt:

• Danish people often get voted the happiest in the world – something our guide attributed to free health care and university fees and…
• Hygee! This is integral to the country’s psyche. The closest translation is ‘cosy’ and refers to moments or feelings of contentment that Danish people seek in daily life
• However, the Danes also have some of the highest depression rates possibly due to low levels of sunlight in the winter
• It’s really difficult to get a Danish passport as not only do you have to learn the complex language, you also have to pass a citizenship test which most Danes themselves even fail.

To do this tour yourself, book online at Copenhagen Free Walking Tours .

City Hall Square

When you’re in that initial sightseeing phase, don’t miss City Hall Square and Copenhagen City Hall. Wander the square, people-watch and get a feel for the city. The City Hall combines Danish architecture with Italian Renaissance (the style of choice when it was built). Head inside to see Jens Olsen’s World Clock, a masterpiece with 14,000 moving parts that took 27 years to build. Opening times: 9am-4pm daily. Address: Rådhuspladsen 1, 1550 København. Entrance fee: Free or 60 DKK for a guided tour.

While exploring central Copenhagen, don’t miss Strøget. This is the city’s main shopping area comprising 5 streets that link together City Hall Square and Kongens Nytorv (New Kings’s Square). Here you can shop everything from tourist souvenirs to designer goods. If you’re not much of a shopper, head up to Original Coffee at the top of Illum department store and soak up panoramic views over Strøget from the balcony.

Amalienborg Palace Square

I’ll mention some more palaces later in this Copenhagen itinerary but, for a great introduction, visit Amalienborg Palace Square in central Copenhagen. As you may know, Denmark is one of the new European countries to have an active royal family. Amalienborg is the Queen’s official winter residence.

If you can, aim to visit at midday to witness the changing of the guard. If a band is playing, you know the Queen is home!

As well as the impressive King Frederik V statue outside, there are four palaces in this majestic complex, two of which you can head inside: Christian VII’s palace and Christian VIII’s palace. The first can only be visited as a guided tour while Christian VIII’s can be visited with just an entrance ticket. Right beside the palace is Amalie Garden, a small park beside the water with some impressive fountains. Address: Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 København K. Entrance fee: 95 DKK. Opening times: 11am-4pm, daily.

Frederik’s Church

Just a moment’s walk from Amalienborg Palace is this enormous church. If you think it’s impressive from the outside, wait until you see the intricate, detailed dome and religious artwork inside. Address: Frederiksgade 4, 1265 København, Denmark. Opening times: 10am-7pm. Entry fee: Free but you can pay 35 DKK for a tower tour. Make sure to book your ticket for this at 1pm when they’re released. They go fast!

Nyhavn Harbour

This is the famous harbour you’ll have seen online. There are lots of bars and restaurants here so it’s a great place to hang out. Come summer, it’s vibey with people eating and drinking outside, and during the winter months there’s a Christmas market. Whatever the season, it’s a must for three days in Copenhagen even if just to get epic Instagram photos…

Canal tours

A fun option for your Copenhagen itinerary is a canal tour. You’ll cruise around the colourful harbour and past the Little Mermaid Statue and palaces. Book a Copenhagen canal tour for €12 . Note – you get a free tour with a Copenhagen Card !

Round House Astronomy Tower

This beautiful building 10 minutes’ walk from Nyhavn offers the best panoramic views of Copenhagen and has a detailed astronomy dial at the top. It was built to be wide enough for the king to take his horse and carriage to the top as he couldn’t be bothered to walk! Tower climb fee: 25 DKK.

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens are a must for three days in Copenhagen. Even though it was freezing and dark by 3pm during my winter trip, I was keen to visit. Tivoli is an amusement park and pleasure garden operating since 1843. There are 30+ rides and open-air concerts in the summer. The perk of visiting Copenhagen in winter is that you don’t have to wait long to see the city lit up. More than 100,000 bulbs give Tivoli a romantic feel ( is this hygge? ). No wonder Hans Christian Andersen was a regular visitor. During winter in Copenhagen, Tivoli turns into a Christmas market. I had some expensive mulled wine and wandered the atmospheric gardens. I just wish I’d been able to feel my feet! Address: Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V. Entry fee: 135 DKK on weekdays, 145 DKK on weekends. Dodge the queues by booking a fast track ticket for no extra cost . If you love rides, it’s worth getting an unlimited rides pass for an extra €10 . Opening times: 11am-10pm daily (’til midnight Fri-Sat).

Evening – dinner at Reffen food market

Budget travellers visiting Copenhagen should make a beeline for Reffen Street Food & Craft Market . If dinner and drinks at a restaurant are out of your price range, opt for street food instead. Not only is Reffen an affordable place to eat (with mains starting at 70 DKK) but the food is mouthwatering. Browse seafood, crepes, pizza, Asian food, bubble waffles, sushi and more. I opted for an amazing surf and turf burger with a beef patty, prawns, fried onions and cheese sauce. Easily one of my favourite meals during 3 days in Copenhagen! They serve food ’til 8pm and drinks until 10pm. In the summer, they hold various events outdoors beside the water. Reffen address: Refshalevej 167 Unit A, 1432 København. Opening times: Food stalls 12-8pm, bars 11am-10pm, coffee bar from 10am-8pm.

Copenhagen itinerary – day 2

For my second day in Copenhagen, I started with a warming breakfast at a local market before ticking off more must-see attractions and a few quirky ones, too!

Torvehallerne Market

The best way to start a day in Copenhagen is over fancy porridge at Grød in Torvehallerne Market . This indoor foodie paradise has 80+ stalls and colourful fruit and flower market outside. It’s an ideal place to combine eating and sightseeing. Address:  Frederiksborggade 21, 1362 København. Opening hours: 10am-7pm (6pm on weekends).

The Little Mermaid

Here’s an attraction that divides the masses! Some can’t wait to vist the Little Mermaid (built in 1913 and inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s twisted fairytale) but I have to confess I’m in the camp who deem it overrated. The Little Mermaid statue is a 20-minute walk from Nyhavn Harbour. The round trip on foot took an hour out of my day which I’d almost describe as time wasted: it wasn’t very inspiring and was packed with hundreds of tourists and sightseeing buses. Still, with 3 days in Copenhagen, you may as well see it. Although the Mermaid may not be the most exciting tourist attraction, you can’t deny she has an impressive history. She’s 100 years old and has had her head and arm cut off by vandals on separate occasions. She’s a trooper – I’ll give her that.

Fun alternative – for a wacky attraction, head over to the Genetically Modified Mermaid Statue . Responsible is Bjørn Nørgaard, a professor at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts who described the piece as a humorous look at postmodern society. With a twisted figure and non-human head, she’s got to be seen to be believed! She’s just a 10-minute walk from the OG Little Mermaid.

Churchill Park and the Langelinie

Although the Little Mermaid is the most famous attraction at the waterfront, there are a few other places not to miss. Wander Langelinie promenade towards Churchill Park. This promenade is a lovely place to do as the locals do and enjoy a Sunday walk beside the water. Places of interest include St Alban’s Church and  Gefion Fountain in Churchill park, and the Angel of Peace  statue on the Langelinie. Keep walking and you’ll reach…

Kastellet citadel

One of the most impressive structures in Denmark is easily the citadel, Northern Europe’s most impressive surviving fortress. It’s where royal physician, Johann Friedrich Struensee, was held in 1772 after being arrested for his affair with Queen Caroline Mathilde. The citadel was built in the shape of a pentagon (although it looks more like a star on aerial maps), flanked by canals with five bastions of protection at each corner. Although it still has a military function, it’s a popular place for tourists to wander and look across the water. You can’t say Copenhagen is short of green spaces! Address: Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, 2100 København. Entry fee: free!

Christiania Freetown

The next stop on my Copenhagen itinerary is not overrated! Freetown Christiania is not your average touristic stop: it’s a hippie settlement separated itself from the rest of the city and now an autonomous state. If you’ve ticked off the well-known photo stops like the Little Mermaid, why not get to grips with Copenhagen’s alternative side? Freetown Christiania is a colourful area with hippie art galleries and organic cafes where you can grab a bite to eat.

Read next: tips for visiting Freetown Christiania

Address: Prinsessegade, 1422 Københav.

Opening times: You can technically visit any time but I would suggest going during daylight hours to feel that bit safer.

Bird’s-eye view from the Church of Our Saviour

Soak up panoramic views from the Church of Our Saviour ‘s top tower. Since it’s just a five-minute walk from Freetown Christiania on Christianshavn (the collection of islands connecting to the mainland via bridge), it makes sense to combine these attractions during your Copenhagen 3 day itinerary. One of my favourite things to do in a city is see it from above – it always gives me a sense of perspective and a clearer idea of where everything is. The view from Church of Our Saviour is especially impressive because you can see over to Sweden. Address: Sankt Annæ Gade 29, 1416 København. Opening hours: Feb-April: 10am-4pm, Mon-Sat; 10.30am-4pm, Sun & holidays. May-Sept: 9.30am-7pm, Mon-Sat; 10.30am-7pm, Sun & holidays.

Copenhagen itinerary – day 3

I started the final day of my Copenhagen itinerary with brunch (can you see where my priorities lie?) before ticking off a few more sights. If you prefer to take your time sightseeing, pick two of the following attractions and enjoy them at your leisure…

Gråbrødretorv Square 

Although Gråbrødretorv Square  hadn’t been on my radar, I wandered through it by accident on my way to brunch. If you have 3 days in Copenhagen, squeeze it in. Not far from Strøget, this was once a stylish student part of town. They’ve since gravitated elsewhere, leaving it quiet but picturesque with trinket stores and cafes.

Final brunch at Raw 42

A friend from my hostel told me about brunch spot,  Raw 42 . Everything’s vegan but I wouldn’t have noticed if she hadn’t told me… I love matcha and berries so even if there had been meat on the menu I’d probably have still ordered this breakfast bowl. I also tried a turmeric latte. It wasn’t bad but I probably won’t rush to order it again! Address: Pilestræde 32, 1112 København.

Explore the palaces

Despite its hipster and alternative areas, Copenhagen is known for its grand palaces, one of which (Amalienborg Palace) we saw on day one. Before leaving Copenhagen, check out a few other palaces near Strøget. These are…

Christiansborg Palace

As buildings go, Christiansborg is one of the most significant. It’s home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court of Denmark and the Office of the Prime Minister. While it now has a political function, it’s also been home to kings and queens during its 800 years of history. In fact, the Royal Reception Rooms are where the Queen still receives foreign ambassadors to this day. On a visit, guests can tour various parts of the property including the Royal Reception Rooms, Kitchen, Stables, and Chapel. Don’t miss the Great Hall where the Queen’s tapestries depict 1,000 years of Danish history. Ticket price: the 5 rooms have separate entrance fees. To see them all, opt for a combo ticket for 160 DKK. Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 Københav. Opening hours: Changeable; check Christiansborg Palace website .

Rosenborg Castle 

With its turret and towers, Rosenborg is another of the most impressive and foreboding buildings in the city. Add it to your Copenhagen itinerary to marvel over the Danish Crown Jewels and other treasures. The Castle is located in the King’s Garden, the oldest public park in the capital. Although anyone can now enter freely, it used to be a private garden for the royals. Entrance fee: 120 DKK (75 for students). Free with a Copenhagen Card. Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København. Opening times: 11am-4pm (closed Mondays).

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

To add a bit of culture to your three days in Copenhagen, swing by the city’s most popular gallery and museum. Here you’ll see Danish and French paintings, work by Manet and Van Gogh, and items from ancient civilisations like Egypt and Greece. Don’t miss the Winter Gardens under a conservatory-style roof with Roman statues, grand fountains and tropical plants. Opening times: 11am-6pm, Tues-Sun (until 9pm on Thurs). Entry fee: 115 DKK. Free on Tuesdays.

Carlsberg Brewery

Visiting the largest brewery in Denmark is a final fun activity for 3 days in Copenhagen. At Carlsberg Brewery you can sample pilsners, lagers and even ciders while learning fun facts from a tour guide. There’s even a sculpture garden, cafe, bar and shop meaning you could easily spend a half-day there. There’s a free shuttle bus from the city centre. Beer lovers can also support other microbreweries in Copenhagen .

Budget for 3 days in Copenhagen

It doesn’t have to be bank-breaking because many of the activities are free such as wandering the green spaces and visiting Freetown Christiania. However, these are the entrance fees to budget for:

• Tivoli Gardens – 135 DKK (145 on weekends)
• Church of Our Saviour tower climb – 35 DKK
• Amalienborg Palace – 95 DKK
• Rosenborg Castle – 120 DKK 
• OR Amalienborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle combo ticket – 180 DKK
• Christiansborg Palace – 160 DKK

Don’t forget you can purchase a Copenhagen Card which gives entry to all the above attractions (aside from the tower climb), public transport and canal cruises. Buy your Copenhagen Card for 400 DKK (€50).

Budget tips for Copenhagen

• Eat at markets (Torvehallerne and Reffen are amazing) and cafes as opposed to restaurants, plus look out for hostels with dinner deals.
• See the city on foot. Most places are relatively close together meaning you can save money on accommodation.
• Take a free walking tour rather than a paid one.
• Remember some museums have free entry on certain days. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek gallery is free on Tuesdays while the Museum of Copenhagen is free on Fridays.

What & where to eat during 3 days in Copenhagen

The food in Copenhagen is spectacular even if it is expensive. Head over to my Copenhagen brunch guide for all the places I discovered in town . A few must-eats in Copenhagen (on a budget!):

• Coffee and smørrebrød at Original Coffee at the top of Illum department store
• Fancy porridge at GRØD
• Gasoline Grill – once a gas station, this is now the most popular burger joint in Copenhagen
• GAO – a dedicated dumpling bar (my favourite type of bar!)
• Da Gallo Pizzeria – just excellent pizza, Neapolitan style
• La Neta – affordable Mexican street food.

Christmas markets in Copenhagen

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the following markets. My favourite thing about Europe in winter is that cosy Christmas feel… Especially when mulled wine is concerned.

• Kongens Nytorv – market stalls in central Copenhagen
• Hans Christian Andersen Market – beside colourful Nyhavn harbour, you’ll find more festive market stalls
• Hojbro Plads – another central market with loads of hot wine and food
• Tivoli Gardens   – as mentioned above.

Thanks for reading my Copenhagen itinerary

Travelling around Europe? Check out some of my other posts:

• Complete Hamburg itinerary
• Best things to do in Nuremberg Germany
• How to spend 3 days in Vienna
• The ultimate Budapest itinerary
• How to spend 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal
• How to spend 3 days in Porto, Portugal
• Ultimate Prague food guide
• 15 reasons to visit Bratislava, Slovakia

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked my 3 day Copenhagen itinerary? Pin it for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING DENMARK Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , I use RailEurope . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s some of the most affordable insurance out there but still covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

7 thoughts on “ 3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary For First-Timers ”

Loved reading your blogpost Rose and thank you so so much for the mention! I’m glad you enjoyed the coffee – it’s definitely expensive stuff over there. I should have warned you haha. We didn’t get to go to Tivoli last time. It was closed! I guess it’s just another excuse to go back right? 🙂

Thanks for reading, Jess!! Ohh another excuse to go back and see Tivoli 😉 I’m sure there’s something I didn’t do too that means i can plan another trip!

Hey rose , loved the write up on copenhagen so so useful. Do you recommend the hans chrtitwin andwrson khaeein and Vikings museum- travelling with 2 children

Hello, I don’t travel with kids myself so I’m not sure, sorry!

Hi, great blog btw. Love the suggestions and I am just wondering if you got yourself a copenhagen card while doing this 3 days trip?

Loved reading your blog! Really helpful for my first trip to Copenhagen

Thank you! Very helpful.

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Your Guide to the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen

Are you trying to decide on the best time to visit Copenhagen?

I think you’ll have a great time no matter when you visit, but certain times of year may be better than others depending on what you’re looking for.

In this post, I break down what to expect from each season and month of the year when visiting Copenhagen.

Now, this isn’t a detailed weather forecast or description of the seasons. But I will give you a good idea of things to consider when deciding which month to visit.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen

Since Copenhagen can get quite cold and rainy during some seasons, certain attractions normally operating in the city will close down seasonally until the weather gets better.

For example, both Tivoli Gardens, the city’s famous amusement park, and the popular food markets are all seasonal.

So if you’d like to make sure you don’t miss your opportunity to visit these attractions, keep reading.

Copenhagen in spring

Spring is the best time to visit Copenhagen if you’re looking for mild temperatures and lighter crowds.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to get your visit in before the summer crowds arrive and prices get high.

March in Copenhagen marks the beginning of Spring, but don’t tell that to the weather. Temperatures in March are still quite chilly and it’s still on the wetter side.

But if you’re willing to deal with the crummy weather, you’ll get to enjoy the city for a good price and without the normal crowds.

Since the city’s popular food markets don’t open until next month, consider exploring the city’s many famous breweries. I mean, what else are you going to do if it’s raining outside?

April marks a dramatic change in Copenhagen as the weather begins to get warmer and drier and the days longer.

You’ll also be happy to hear many of the popular street food markets and food halls reopen this month.

Though if you don’t want to visit a food market you can always take my approach and do your own DIY Copenhagen food tour .

If that’s not enough, the famous Tivoli Gardens Amusement park also reopens. Needless to say, there’s a lot going on in April in Copenhagen.

May is the first month of the year where the weather starts getting warm. This is getting to be a busier time for a visit, but it’s still not as crowded as the upcoming summer months.

Now is the time to visit some of the city’s most popular destinations before the summer crowds arrive.

It’s also the perfect weather for biking around the city. Consider grabbing yourself a Copenhagen Card and exploring all the major sights.

Copenhagen in summer

Summer is the best time to visit Copenhagen if you are looking to experience the best weather and you don’t mind the crowds.

Unfortunately with the great weather comes greater demand for flights and hotels. Be prepared to spend more when visiting Copenhagen during the busy summer months.

June is an extraordinarily busy month in Copenhagen. The popular CopenHell music festival takes place in the third week of the month and brings visitors from all over Europe.

There is also a popular street festival called Distortion that takes place in the city in the first week of the month.

In addition to these popular events, there are also a few national holidays in June along with the Midsummer celebrations.

July features some of the warmest temperatures and the longest days of the year. Since the weather is so great and the days are long,

July makes the perfect time to add a few day trips into your itinerary if you’re going to be in Copenhagen for several days. Nearby Malmo, Sweden is a popular choice.

July is also the month when the popular Rockslide music festival takes place, which will make this a busy month in the city.

You should book hotel accommodations early if you’ll be visiting during the festival which usually takes place in the first week of July.

August marks the final month of summer. Temperatures are still warm and the days are still long.

The city is still full of lots of tourists still in town, but they are slowly beginning to head home.

There are lots of festivals in Denmark and Copenhagen this time of year, so if you’re interested in learning more about the food and culture, August is the perfect time to visit.

Copenhagen in autumn

Autumn is the best time to visit Copenhagen if you’re looking for slightly cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors.

This time of year just about all of Copenhagen is covered in bright gold and orange leaves, especially in and around the city’s many parks.

September can be the best time to visit Copenhagen for those of us that are looking to avoid crowds and love a great deal.

By this time of year, summer travelers have gone home and back to work or school. This means demand is lower for hotels and flights, which means prices are lower too.

October is a fun month to visit Copenhagen because there is a lot going on. The famous Tivoli Gardens is open and celebrating the Halloween holiday with impressive decorations and delicious seasonal treats.

October is also when visitors can experience Culture Night which happens annually around the middle of October.

Culture is an annual celebration of art and culture. Academic and art institutions all over the city keep their doors open late and host special events for the public.

November is probably one of the least crowded times of year to visit Copenhagen.

Temperatures are getting colder and the weather is getting wetter, so fewer are willing to deal with these conditions while traveling.

But if these things don’t bother you, pack a warm jacket and an umbrella and have yourself a fantastic time exploring this fun city.

Towards the end of the month, you’ll even get to visit the city’s famous Christmas Market at Nyhavn.

Copenhagen in winter

Winter is the best time to visit Copenhagen if you’re looking for the lightest crowds and fun holiday celebrations.

While Copenhagen in winter is by far the coldest time of year to visit, it’s also the most festive. This is the time of year when Christmas celebrations begin and holiday decorations are on display.

December is when Christmas festivities are in full swing in Copenhagen. All of the city’s Christmas markets are open and local stores are full of holiday shoppers.

Visitors to Copenhagen in winter will also get to sample Denmark’s holiday meals and desserts when visiting local restaurants.

January in Copenhagen has some of the coldest temperatures of the year and also some of the shortest days.

The sun will rise around 9:00 a.m. and set around 4:00 p.m. While days are short and temperatures are colder, this is a great time to visit the city if you’re looking for a deal.

Hotel prices and airfare will be more affordable this time of year.

February marks the end of winter when days are finally beginning to get longer.

Temperatures remain on the chilly side, but the annual VinterJazz festival is held this month. The Winter Jazz Festival is held throughout the entire country of Denmark.

The festival includes over 600 concerts in over 150 venues over 3 weeks. It’s an extremely popular annual event with musicians from all over the world participating.

Tivoli Gardens Seasonal Hours

Tivoli Gardens is open seasonally 4 times per year for Winter, Summer, Halloween, and Christmas. You can see the various opening dates below:

• Winter: January 31st – February 23rd
• Summer: April 1st – September 20th
• Halloween: October 9th – November 1st
• Christmas: November 16th – January 5th

Daily operating hours vary by season and day of the week. More information along with ticket prices can be found by visiting Tivoli Gardens online.

Have you been to Denmark? Let me know when you think is the best time to visit Copenhagen.

I visited during October and thought it was perfect. No crowds, low prices, and fall colors. Plus I got the perfect temperatures for riding my rental bike all over the city.

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Summertime in Copenhagen – 10 Must Do’s

Tried and true things to do this summer in copenhagen, from biking to boating to swimming at the beach.

Come to Copenhagen, she said. And I’ll say it again. Considering a trip during summer? It’s a dreamy time to visit. Danish summer days are long, full of that late Nordic light we locals craved over winter. At midsummer’s peak – celebrated here on the 23rd of June with the annual Sankt Hans Aften festivities – the sun shines 17.5 hours over the city. 

Beginning the 1st of June, the summer season brings flowers blooming everywhere, the air lavish with lilacs and elderflowers. Trees lining streets are once more lush and verdant. Vining roses drape around doorways of those charming, colorful old houses all over town. The sun glints off the clean water and people are out everywhere soaking it up. Faces to the sun. When it’s out. Here are 10 ways to make the most out of Copenhagen in summer.

(Originally posted May 2016 – updated June 2023) 

My Top 10 Danish Summer Experiences in Copenhagen

Note: All suggestions are listed on the map at the end with specific locations.

1 | Cruise through the canals

Really – you must do this. Copenhagen is a harbor town. It’s in the name. København means merchant’s harbor. There is water everywhere. And it’s safe to swim in. Seize your inner Viking sailor. You must get out on the water. Especially this season. Don’t have a boat? No problem. There are so many options for all budgets to explore the canals and harbor here in Copenhagen.

Take a guided canal tour

First visit to the Danish capital? I would recommend starting with a canal tour for a great overview of the city’s major sites and layout from the water.

Netto-Bådene

60-minute canal tour | Adults DKK 50, Children DKK 20

Tours in Danish, English, and German depart regularly during the day from Nyhavn near Heibergsgade and take you on a curated route to see capital icons like the Little Mermaid, the Copenhagen Opera House, and more. Check the website to see up-to-date schedules and stops, as weather and canal traffic can impact daily routes.

60-minute Classic Canal Tour | DKK 109 per person

Slightly nicer boats – and some fully electric – the Stromma Tours depart regularly from Holmens Canal (near Højbro bridge and Ved Stranden) or at the Kongens Nytorv end of Nyhavn Canal.

Hygge Boat Tour | DKK 249 per person

New this season, Stromma is offering a smaller guided tour for a maximum of 12 people on an electric boat. These 1-hour and 5-minute cruises depart from the Ved Stranden location and offer a deeper dive into lesser-known areas.

Hey Captain

60 min tour | DKK 200/per person “The Landmarks” tour gives the highlights of the historic city. 180 min tour | DKK 400/per person the “Hidden Gems” tour shows some off-the-beaten-track spots.

Each tour includes a complimentary non-alcoholic drink – in the summer lemonade or water. Wine and Beer are available for purchase – with a maximum of two drinks for each person. Or set up a private tour for DKK 2000 (max 12 peeps.) Departures daily from Ofelia Plads and newly opened Kalvebod Brygge.

Hey Captain was founded by friends cruising the canals with the ambition of creating an intimate and ‘ hyggelig ‘ canal tour. We want to make you feel at home while you get a sense of the city and what life entails here. We don’t work with a 100% fixed route as we want to give our captains the opportunity to customize the route depending on wishes of our guests on the day, specific events in the harbor, and weather. – Hey Captain website

Captain your own electric picnic boat

Want a little more control over your tour? Or maybe, you’ve been to Copenhagen before and don’t need the speech delivered in four languages. Even better – you live here? Have you ever rented a sustainable electric picnic boat? You can! Highly recommend trying this at least once. So very fun!

1st hour | DKK 549 for up to 8 people, 2 hours | DKK 979

We adore  Go Boat  and their super charming little electric picnic boats. Book online and rent by the hour. It is popular when the weather is nice, so plan ahead. Pick up your boat from their cool outpost near Islands Brygge right on the canal. We love the slow, cozy  Go Boats for their charm, ease, stability, and maneuverability. There is a picnic table in the middle! No time to pack a lunch? Order ahead online and they will fashion a perfect picnic for your group or you can pick up some provisions right on sight.

Friendship s

1st hour | DKK 549 for 8 people, 2 hours | DKK 899

Take the Inner Harbor bicycle and pedestrian bridge from Nyhavn to Christianshavn. Straight back to the right tucked at the end of the channel is the base for Friendships. A quick lesson on driving the blue and white electric boats and you’re off, laminated harbor map in hand. Cold drinks are available for purchase on-site.

Get a feel for a few hours out on the canals aboard your own Friendships here:

Catch the Copenhagen harbor bus for a budget boat option

Need a budget option? Jump on an electric harbor bus and ride it up and down the canals. For the price of a normal bus or metro ticket, you can cruise the canal and enjoy the views and sunshine on the cheap. Harbor busses travel between Orientkaj in Nordhavn and Sluseholmen in the south, with lots of stops in between. Have you rented a bike? No problem – roll it right on.

Harbor Bus  

Adults DKK 24 for one trip between 2 zones valid on bus, metro and harbor for 1 hour. If you buy the 24 or 72-hour city passes, you get unlimited public transport access, including train to and from the airport.

READ MORE: EXPLORE COPENHAGEN BY BOAT

2 | see the capital from the seat of a bike.

No Copenhagen summer experience list would be complete if it didn’t include hopping on two wheels. This town is made for bicycles and is regularly voted the most bike-friendly city in the world. Most of the capital is flat and there are elevated paths with their own stoplights here for bikes. Need a quick Danish bike etiquette lesson? Read here . Go with the flow of traffic and learn the hand signals. You can do it! And don’t worry, many Danes leave the city between weeks 28-30 so there will be less pressure for those visiting at that time.

Something about warm breezy weather and just biking speaks Danish summer to me. Perfection. You can rent electric bikes at many depots around the city. They can be heavy and cumbersome if you aren’t used to them. Prefer a regular bicycle, many shops rent cykler (in Danish) by the hour or the day. Check with your hotel, many offer bike rentals in-house.

Copenhagen Bikes

Bike rental DKK 125/day. E-bikes from DKK 350. The day runs from 08.00 -17.30. Saturday and Sundays 09.00 – 15.00. Group tours are also available. Åboulevard 3, 1635 København V

Donkey Republic App

24/7 Bike Rental. DKK 100/day. Find a bike near you and unlock it with your phone. Download the app and rent by the hour or by the day. Added bonus, Donkey bikes are available all over Europe and have electric assist options available.

Take a bike with a basket. Bike to your picnic. Or to a Harbor Pool. Or to a park! Or to drinks on the water … it can ALL be done on a bike here in summer. (Or really anytime here in Copenhagen.)

READ MORE: DING! DING! BIKING ETIQUETTE IN COPENHAGEN

3 | S wim in the clean clear harbor

This is such a very Copenhagen thing to do. The city has worked diligently to ensure the water quality is healthy to enjoy and locals here do it all the time. But swimming is only legal in specific zones, to keep bathers and boaters equally safe. The best places are the public harbor baths – a floating open-air swimming pool of sorts. Many of them are lifeguarded between June and September. 

Lifeguarded Copenhagen Harbor baths

Check the Copenhagen Kommune website for up-to-date lifeguard hours and opening times. Bonus for locals and visitors – swimming in these spots completely free of charge.

Islands Brygge Harbor Bath

Islands Brygge 14, 2300 Copenhagen S

The original and most popular of the baths is located at Islands Brygge  which can be quite a scene when the weather is nice. People go to see and be seen hanging out on the lawn. (Bonus – GoBoat is here, and the Harbor bus drops off nearby, so you can get your canal cruise on AND then take a swim.) Kids of all ages will LOVE jumping off the huge platform that looks like a ship right into the canal.

Sluseholmen Harbor Bath

Ben Websters Vej 69, 2450 Copenhagen SW

A little further afield – but worth a visit – this pretty Scandi-designed spot on the south end of the Copenhagen canal is easily reachable by harbor bus or a bike around the Havneringen bicycle path . Enjoy post-swimming eats and drinks at Restaurant Vandvid aboard an old ferry right on the water. Or adorable little Cafe Slusen – a short ride or walk nearby.

READ MORE: BIKE ON COPENHAGEN’S HARBOR RING TO SLUSEHOLMEN

Other safe swimming zones in the city, kalvebod bølge.

Across the main Copenhagen canal from Islands Brygge you can’t miss the cool wooden wave-like structure of Kalvebod Bølge. Here swimmers, kayakers, and sunbathers swarm the docks come summer and can jump in the main harbor within the cordoned-off safe zone. The bravest might jump from the top platforms in the back.

La Banchina café, sauna and swim zone

Refshalevej 141, 1432 København, Denmark

La Banchina – which means the quay or dock in Italian – is a little hidden oasis. Tucked in a protected little corner off the main canal out in Refshaleøen area of the city. Here you can take a dip all year round and then step in their on-site sauna (pre-booking a time slot is probably a good idea.) Delicious sustainable eats and drinks are available on-site.

Nordhavn Public Swimming Area | Badezone Sandka

Sandkaj 35, Nordhavn, 2150 Copenhagen No lifeguard. Open all hours.

On the east side of the city? Check out the Nordhavn swimming area on Sandkaj, an easy walk from the Nordhavn ( S-tog ) train station. Not lifeguarded, but roped off with easy exit and entry to the cool clear water, this area is hopping come summer. Right under the Portland Towers, set up your towels on a section of the terraced wood docks here and take a dip. Bonus points for a nearby Original Coffee, Letz Sushi, Joe & The Juice, and hamburgers from Jagger.

READ MORE: COPENHAGEN’S HYGGELIGSTE PLACES TO GET COFFEE

4 | b ask in the scandinavian sun at a local beach.

Don’t think of sandy beaches when you hear the word Copenhagen? If the sun is shining – everyone in Denmark does. On a warm day, our family loves hitting the beach. The Baltic Sea waters surrounding the island Sjælland – where the capital sits – hit temperatures much warmer than expected. Partly due to large sandy shallows directly offshore and relatively low shift of tides. A Danish beach is one of my absolute favorite places to picnic come summer. So where to experience the sandy goodness like a local?

Bellevue Strand (Beach)

My favorite? By far.  Bellevue Beach in Klampenborg, just north of the city. It is a gorgeous swath of sand with designer facilities – worth the effort to get to (just jump on the C-train and get off at the Klampenborg stop – go up the hill then turn right and head towards the water.) The Bellevue Strand structures here were developed by Danish design superhero Arne Jacobsen. You can’t help but be charmed by the blue and white towers plus matching kiosks and volleyball court. The water is nice here and children can splash and build sandcastles or stalk crabs on the rocks.

Amager Beach

If Klampenborg feels too far from town for you try  Amager Strandpark  with views of the Øresund Bridge and across to Sweden. The iconic Kastrup Sea Bath or “ Sneglen ” (the snail) here is a pretty cool public swim facility right on the water. Kiosks with pølsers and popsicles on site.

Svanemøllen Strand

Our go-to local hangout is Svanemøllen Strand  – because we can cycle there in under 10 minutes and it is perfect for a dip off the boardwalk. Take an instant grill and make an evening out of it. Play a game of football in the sand. You can pick up a DKK 30 disposable grill at most grocery stores during the summer months. Light it up, throw on some “grill meats”, and enjoy the late light and smooth warm water.

Want to know if the water where you’re landed is safe to swim? Denmark has a website and app for that. Head to Badevand.dk and enter København in the drop-down for water quality and sea temperatures around the area on tap.

5 | Pack a picnic for al fresco dining in a city park

Don’t want sand in your sandwich? There is so much beautiful green space in Copenhagen – large parks and gardens where you can enjoy the outdoors and eat al fresco like a regular Dane. Remember those 20 Kroner grills? Perfect at the park too.

There are many excellent places to procure picnic provisions – but my favorite has to be  Torvehallerne  – the Glass Market near Nørreport Station in the middle of town. There is excellent takeaway food as well as fresh fruit and vegetables. A sunny afternoon, or early evening at a table outside at  Torvehallerne  is perfection. Grab a glass of Danish craft beer and the delicious Nordic charcuterie plate from Omegn . Or a duck confit sandwich from Ma Poule or tacos from Hija de Sanchez and enjoy. Delightful. Lots of great takeaway options to eat there right there or carry to one of the beautiful nearby green spaces to enjoy like…

Copenhagen Botanical Gardens  – Botanisk Have

Gothersgade 130, 1353 Copenhagen

The Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Copenhagen. Meander the beautiful paths, smell the flowers while little can look for toads on the lily pads in the ponds. Get inspiration from the test garden or just relax on the lawn. This is another perfect spot for a picnic in the summer while enjoying the flowers. You can bring your Torvehallerne treats here, but no grills are allowed. Food carts and outdoor cafés are available if takeaway in the grass isn’t your thing. From 15 August to 2 September, spend an evening in the park watching Shakespeare’s “ Much Ado About Nothing ,” by the Afterhours Theater Company .

Fælledparken  

Edel Sauntes Allé, 2100 København Ø

Much larger than the parks that string along the inner city, we love our nearby  Fælledparken  in Østerbro. So does the entire city as you will always find people here. Running along the many paths. Playing sports in the shadow of F.C. København’s home stadium Telia Parken . Just relaxing with friends. Picnicking on the grass or at the many public tables available.

There are also several great playgrounds for kids younger or older. You can take a break, set up your picnic and let them run off some steam. Little ones may enjoy the Tårnlegepladsen or “Tower playground” near the corner of Blegdamsvej and Frederik V’s Vej. The slides and climbing equipment here mimic Copenhagen’s iconic architecture. On a warm day with little ones in tow, you can take your picnic to the Splash pool ( Fælledparkens Soppesø ). It is a charming place to cool off, located behind the skatepark near Norre Allé and Edel Sauntes Allé.

My kids are a little older and enjoy the more physically active play area near Den Franske Plads on the Serridslevvej side. Here there are giant swings, an obstacle course, and trampolines as well as small courts for football and basketball. Even if you aren’t a kid, don’t have kids, and don’t want to be near kids – Fælledparken is huge enough that you can find a lovely corner that fulfills all your Danish summer needs.

Frederiksberg Gardens

2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark

A sprawling park in the independent township of Frederiksberg. Perfect for a stroll through the meandering maze of paths. Huge swaths of lawn to spread out a picnic. Playgrounds for the littles and kiosks for coffee and ice cream. Prefer a fancier lunch? Book ahead to sit in the backyard patio of Fasangården , idyllic come summer.

Or try to nab the cute little gazebo in the Horticulture Society’s garden near the Pile Allé entrance. Ask locals where to get a sneak peek of the Copenhagen Zoo’ s elephant enclosure, visible for free from Frederiksberg Garden. Or take a relaxing guided boat tour through the park’s little canals. This park is the perfect respite this season.

Søndermarken

Pile Alle 55, 2000 Frederiksberg

Søndermarken park is not far from Frederiksberg Gardens and is home to more beautiful green space and walking paths. Take a picnic and make a plan to step into the Cisterns , an amazing underground art space.

READ MORE: STEP INSIDE THE CISTERNS UNDERGROUND ART SPACE IN COPENHAGEN

Ørstedsparken  .

Nørre Farimagsgade, 1364 Copenhagen K

This lovely little green oasis is in the opposite direction from Torvehallerne. Cross through the always busy and cement Israel Plads to the tree-lined paths ringing the pond that sits in the middle of the city. There is a playground and ping pong table at this end. You can rent paddles and get a coffee, drinks, ice cream and light eats at the adorable Flindt & Ørsted café whose charming terrace might tempt you to tarry after the littles have petered out on the swings. I love the flowers that line the lanes here.

6 | Roll through Dyrehaven in a horse-drawn carriage

Just north of Copenhagen in Klampenborg are the royal hunting grounds and nature preserve known as Jægersborg Dyrehaven. Take the C line on the S-togs (trains) – get off at the Klampenborg station and head right up the hill to the bridge. Here you can hire a horse-drawn carriage to take you to the oldest amusement park in the world – Bakken .

Or ask them to take you through the enormous preserve up to the Eremitage Slot, the Royal hunting lodge where you’ll often see the huge herd of royal deer. Prices vary depending on the length of your trip and how many people but expect to pay between DKK 150-400. Negotiate upfront and be clear about what you’d like to see. Tipping is not common in Denmark. Note: this is the same train stop for Bellevue Beach – you could do both – make a day of it!

7 | Raise a glass to happy hour outside

In Copenhagen, it is legal to consume alcohol in public. This means you can literally BYOB on one of the city’s iconic green benches, slice of a park, or an edge of the water. With the price of a drink out, it’s nice to have the option. Pick a bottle or two from the extensive craft beer and wine selection at Den Gamle Købmand on Sankt Annæ Plads. Throw in some snacks and you’re set for prime people-watching from nearby Ofelia Plads.

Not out and about in a boat? But still want to feel part of the canal action? Go to Reffen and the home of Copenhagen Street Food. Yummy drinks, so many good food choices and a fun, fun vibe. Or on the opposite side of the canal down near the Kastellet (not far from tourist stop the Little Mermaid) – go to  Seaside Toldbolden . Drinks are a little spendier here and the stylish crowd reflects it, but the atmosphere is lovely. Nab a lounger and enjoy the people watching on and off the water. In fact, there are so many lovely places, I wrote a whole post dedicated to where to get drinks outside in the city.

READ MORE: BEST PLACES TO GET DRINKS OUTSIDE IN COPENHAGEN

8 | Paddle a swan boat around the Lakes

“The Lakes” sit at the edge of the old town, a man-made division between the historic center and the popular neighborhoods of Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Østerbro. Cafés and bars line the Lakes’ north side and the paths here are always popular for bikers, walkers, and runners. Chill on the famous Dronning Louises Bro and watch the cyklers roll past. Or head down to Kaffesalonen on the Peblinge Sø (lake) and rent one of their swan boats. A giant swan-shaped paddle boat can be rented by the half-hour or an hour and is a delightful way to spend part of an afternoon. The swans only fit two people, but larger paddle boats can accommodate 4-6 passengers.

Kaffesalonen Paddle Boat Rental Peblinge Dossering 6 2200 Copenhagen N

Swan Boats for 2 persons | DKK 110 per ½ hour,  DKK 160 per hour. Larger paddle boats for 4 people | DKK 160 per ½ hour, and DKK 220 for 1 hour. “Sun Ferry” jumbo boats for 6 | DKK 220 per ½ hour, or DKK 270 per hour. Rentals are available from 10:00-21:00 daily.

9 | Cool off with some creamy Danish ice cream

Is is Danish for ice cream and here it is decidedly delicious. Paradis is a chain that is all over town and affords an excellent scoop or two. My personal favorite shop is  Østerberg Ice Cream  in Østerbro. Just a small shop on Rosenvængets Allé run by Catherine Østerberg and family. Every flavor we have tried here is fantastisk, but my go-to (if it is available) is the lakrids (yes, licorice! Don’t knock it till you try it. When in Denmark I say.) Or go for the havtorn (sea buckthorn) and hyldeblomst (elderflower) – iconic Danish summer flavors.

Out and about in the colorful Nørrebro neighborhood? Try Istids – flash frozen with liquid nitrogen on the spot – it is a delicious experience to watch your treat freeze before your eyes.

Østerberg Ice Cream

Rosenvaengets Alle 7C, 2100 Copenhagen Ø Tullinsgade 25, 1618 København V

Istid Organic Nitrogen Ice Cream

Jægersborggade 13, 2200 Copenhagen N

READ MORE: ICE CREAM SEASON IN DENMARK

10 | Try the rides or stroll the scenery at Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park

Tivoli is the 2nd oldest amusement park in the world, in operation since August 1843. (Bakken, only 20 kilometers up the road in Klampenborg is the oldest, but my heart lies in Tivoli.) Tivoli is all sorts of charming in any season , but overflows with flowers, marching guards, live music and fireworks shows in the summer. It can also be crowded with tourists in the summer. Don’t worry. Tivoli is the perfect size and has plenty to do with or without waiting for the rides. Simply relaxing on the center lawn while the children dart in and out is truly a lovely way to spend the afternoon.

READ MORE: ALWAYS TIME FOR TIVOLI

Grab some takeaway, a glass of wine or a cold Carlsberg and if you are lucky enough to nab one of the loungers – sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Unlike other amusement parks around the world, the food offerings and restaurants are top notch.

Tivoli offers a myriad of entertainment options if the idea of rollercoasters makes you lose your delicious lunch. Try to make time for marveling at the prestigious Tivoli Youth Guard marching through the park in their red and blue regalia. You could take in a theater show, but remember they will mostly be in Danish. Need a more universal language? There are tons of musical performances – both modern and classical for your listening pleasure.

Many Fridays in the summer – there are free concerts (after you pay admission) from the main lawn stage. Known as Fredagsrock in Danish, coming this summer – Macklemore, Rick Astley, Phlake and others.

T ivoli Gardens Amusement Park

Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København 11:00-22:00 Sun-Th, 11:00-24:00 Fri-Sat Summer Season | 31 March  – 25 September 2023

NOTE: You can buy an entrance ticket for around DKK 155, (children 3-7 are DKK 70) but this will not include any rides. You can purchase an unlimited ride bracelet for DKK 169.

Copenhagen summer weather

A reminder when planning a summer holiday to Copenhagen, don’t expect perfect weather. There are few places better when it’s blue, blue skies overhead. But, be prepared for some good days and some potential grey days. Remember to bring layers. Even if you turn up during a few of the more lacking days weather-wise, you can absolutely still enjoy this beautiful city and have a great time exploring.

Anything to add? Please share it below! Cheers from Copenhagen – Erin

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71 thoughts on “ Summertime in Copenhagen – 10 Must Do’s ”

Such a great post and I have only ticked off a few on this list. The canal cruise was great but the Go Boats looked so fantastic. We just wanted to grab a picnic and join all the people boating around the harbour. I really want to bring the family to Copenhagen next year and explore some more. Bookmarking and sharing, thanks Erin

Thanks Katy! Yes it is a great place for kids in the summer. Thanks for sharing – cheers from Copenhagen, Erin

Those are some great must-do’s! I hope to make it to Copenhagen soon! I’ve been dying to go, but the trip keeps getting pushed back. This summer it was pushed back because our wedding is in October. I especially love the swan bikes! I def want to do that! #CityTripping

You must come to Copenhagen – it really is a very special place. Tillykke on your wedding – congratulations! Cheers from Denmark, Erin

You just nailed the top ten! Thanks for being a great ambassador for Denmark & Copenhagen:-)

Tak! Thank you for the nice compliment / it is a wonderful town!

I spent almost a month in Copenhagen last summer for my MA thesis fieldwork and I absolutely enjoyed the warmth and city life! Really want to get back now as the Northern Norwegian summer doesn’t really have that many perks – beside the Midnight Sun of course! I didn’t enjoy the darkness and thunderstorms during my Copenhagen nights that much 😉

beaches and swimming?really?:) isn’t the sea too cold?#wanderfulwednesday

No not at all! Very comfortable!

Hey ! Greetings from Norway 🙂That was a great article 🙂 i have lived in Copenhagen myself and its one of the greatest cities to live in i think its so so charming. thanks. I just wanted to point out that the ship in the picture is HMS Norge. It belongs to King of Norway, Harald V. 😄

Hej! Thanks for reading! This is definitely the Royal Dannebrog, ship of Dronning Margrethe of Denmark. They do look similar though! Cheers from here.

Great outdoor summertime suggestions. Copenhagen is on my travel wishlist so hope I make it there one summer!

As always, stunning shots! You really do deserve it after a long winter, and what a great selection of things there are to do! I went to Copenhagen as a child, so now I need a trip to see and do all of these wonderful things! Thanks for linking up with us 🙂

The moment I opened this post I thought to myself “but how much will it cost to do these things” and I was so happily surprised when I saw you detailed the price of all the activities 🙂 Thank you for such useful post!!

A fantastic list of things to do and insider info! I went to Copenhagen in the winter when it’s a different city although we still did the pat your. I love the idea of chilling by the river or in a park with a drink and BBQ on the go. Thanks for sharing on #citytripping

You seriously make Copenhagen look like a summer lover’s paradise! I have to admit swimming, beaches and ice cream is so not what comes to mind when I think of this city, but then again I was only there for one day and it rained 🙁 When I make it back (which I will!) I’ll be putting this list to use! What a fun guide! Thanks for sharing and linking up!! 😀

What a nice list! We are planning on visiting Copenhagen in October, so I hope to be able to do some of the activities you mentioned!

Hi Diana – yes, it is wonderful in Denmark in the fall also – check out this post http://bit.ly/FallinDK . You probably won’t be swimming in the harbor, but you can still rent a boat and cruise around! Also if you can manage it, Kulturnatten or Culture Night is in October and is an amazing way to see tons of cool stuff around town for free! Happy to help with any other questions. Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin

Erin, I think I love you! 🙂 Not only do you open with boats and canals but you give me a cheap option too. 🙂 One of the things I’ve heard about Copenhagen is that it’s expensive. We have a home in the Algarve and a lot of our money goes in that direction but I do love to see a bit of the world if I can. Thanks for a brilliantly detailed and super-inviting post.

You are so sweet! Yes it can be expensive here – VERY expensive here, but it is a very beautiful and accessible city and there are many things to see and do and taste to keep costs down! Cheers from Denmark – Erin

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What a fantastic guide. I’ve bookmarked this, as Copenhagen is a place I’m desperate to go.

Thanks Nicola! It is a fabulous place – good food, wonderful history, charming architecture and easy to get around! Cheers, Erin

Such a great city!!! I loved it. Nice post.

Cheers from Copenhagen! Thanks for stopping by – Erin

Looks like Copenhagen is the place to be during the summer! Well, I am sure the neighborhoods countries would be nice too. We almost made it there earlier this month but we ended changing plans.

Beautiful photos! It looks magical 🙂 #mondayescapes

Thanks kindly! Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin

I’ve had one visit to Copenhagen a few years ago. It was in April, just as it was starting to warm up. We were lucky as the weather was pretty good. Would love to go back again for a longer visit and try out some of these suggestions. #mondayescapes

Glad you had some nice weather while you were here! Not that Copenhagen isn’t nice when the skies are grey, but it shines in the sun – in any season really! Cheers and thands for reading! Erin

So many awesome activities!! Copenhagen is amazing, and I believe during summer is even better. I love the picnic boat idea, how cool! You guys are lucky to have the ocean, I think that’s the only thing I miss here in Munich, but at least we have enough lakes haha 😀 Amazing post and pictures Erin!

Happy to have you on #MondayEscapes 😉

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We loved the boats and the street food best! #farawayfiles

A must to get out on the water!

A wonderful reminder of why I love Scandinavian countries in the summer. The light, the long days, the beaches, parks and, above all, the happy people relishing the warmer weather. #farawayfiles

I LOVED living in Copenhagen in the summer. Every day after school we would head straight to the beach, then the summer holidays would start so we would go there for breakfast instead! Brilliant list, brought back lots of happy memories! 🙂 x

This is a great list. I was especially drawn to the carriage ride. I’ve never been on one even though they offer them in Chicago during Christmas time. It’s always been a goal of mine. #farawayfiles

I have pinned this – as I really want a trip to Copenhagen, and this is so full of ideas! Sadly I can’t ride a bike, but all the rest look wonderful. #farawayfiles

Boats with a picnic table in the middle? How cool is that! I want to do it all – try out a swan boat, go picnicking and swimming in the harbour. Thanks for reminding me how much I want to visit Copenhagen. It sounds perfect in the summertime.

The picnic boats are seriously my favorite!!

These all sound fantastic, but my absolute favourite would have to be Biking in the Breeze. I remember hiring a bike for the first time ever in Belgium and just riding around the countryside, feeling like I was flying in the summer breeze. It’s just an amazing feeling! Have a fantastic summer in Copenhagen. #farawayfiles

All that sunshine – total bliss! Hope you’re making the most of it – sounds like it! #FarawayFiles

I have heard a lot about Copenhagen’s bicycles, but not about any of these other activities and sites. I loved learning about the swimming areas and beaches, your pictures made me want to visit now! The ice cream looks delicious, even if I can’t have it. 🙂 #FarawayFiles

Copenhagen in the summer sounds a lot like my city in the summer – we grit our teeth and survive the long, cold, horrible winters, and then as soon as the tiniest bit of sunshine comes out we’re all desperate to soak it up!!

I wish we had picnic boats here – how fun!

Beautiful Beautiful photos! I LOVE the Tivoli sign pic! Now that I’ve discovered your blog I’m even more regretful that we didn’t make it to Copenhagen last summer, it looks like such an amazing destination on so many levels! #farawayfiles

Looks great. I have only ever been in Winter and really loved it every time. May try Summer soon. #farawayfiles

Oh wow you have shown me such a different side of Copenhagen. I knew the summer days were long but I didn’t know they were that long! Sounds absolutely lovey, and like you say much need needed. I didn’t know there was a beach, but I love the beach and grill combo and the idea of swimming in the harbour. I must have you have opened my eyes, I would love to see it for myself! #farawayfiles

Yes – it’s great to be able to hang outside for the long Scandi summer days! Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin

The botanical gardens are so beautiful! I’d also love to try the ice cream from Østerberg Ice Cream!

It’s soooo good! Cheers from Copenhagen!

YES! What a list Erin! I think Copenhagen sounds a bit like Melbourne – with activities based around outdoor exploring on bicycles, being near (or on the) water, and enjoying treats in parklands. I would love to do all of those things on this list. What a lifestyle you Scandi’s have. Love love love. #FarawayFiles

I can’t really claim to be a Scandi (although my husband’s family does have Swedish heritage somewhere back in the line) – but I will definitely claim to enjoy the benefits of Scandi lifestyle! (I love Melbourne too!) Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin

It looks and sounds fantastic – not what I had expected at all. Funnily enough my neighbour has just popped round having come home last night from a birthday trip to the City & she was talking about what a wonderful place it is to visit. I’m certainly tempted. #FarawayFiles

She must have gotten the nice weather – it is so lovely when the blue blue skies are out! And even when it is grey, there are lots of colorful buildings and tons of flowers to make one happy! (Hint, hint) Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin

Hint taken – We will head up there one day ? I’ll put it on the list!

Haha! No pressure – but I think you’d like it – especially with how cycle friendly it is!!

Getting around to ticking a few off this list! I love the swan boats though – eek! Want one of my own!

The swan boats are adorable, but cargo bikes go faster! 😉

We visited Copenhagen before the children so I think it’s time for a return visit. #FarawayFiles

It’s a fab place for families – Scandi’s prioritize kids!

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All of those activitites look incredible! Even though they are so simple, they are the little things that make a great summer! Stunning pictures! Hopefully one day I will be able to see it in person, fingers crossed!

Thanks kindly – hope you make it to Copenhagen too! It’s a great place and has so much to offer!

I’ve just relived my 18 months working as an expat for Maersk Oil in Copenhagen. Liquorice, wienerbrod, empty peapods on the streets, bicycles everywhere, Hygge, Elephant Beer, the Metro, canals, skating at Kings Nytorv and being shouted at by the Royal Guards for stopping by one of the palace doors. Loved every minute of it apart from the edgier part of Amagerbro where my apartment was

Glad I could jog a few memories for you! Cheers from Copenhagen!

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Enjoy the summer in the Copenhagen Harbour

Copenhagen is a city that mixes a green mindset with ingenuity and fun. For instance, if you rinse the harbour to make the water super clean, why wouldn’t you build a floating swimming pool for locals and visitors? 

Life in, on and around the water 

There are so many fun things to do around the harbour and the canals of Copenhagen. Swimming, sailing, enjoying a glass of wine with your feet dangling from the dock. We have picked a couple of options to dive into, but beware that these are only the top of the Iceberg. 

Photo : Martin Heiberg

Three harbour baths you can’t miss

Islands Brygge Harbour Bath 

With a harbour clean enough to swim in it, public harbour baths are something that just needed to happen. And they are very popular among both locals and visitors.  

One of the most visited is located at Islands Brygge, right across the bridge from the city centre. This spot has become iconic, and here you get open-air swimming right in the centre of the city. Meet local families with children, beach boys and regular swimmers alike.  

Jump in the clean waters of Copenhagen's harbour. It's one of the only capitals in the world, where the harbour is clean enough for a swim. Photo : Astrid Maria Rasmussen

On hot days, Copenhageners swim with the city’s skyline in free view. During the week, many locals pass the pool for a quick dip on their way home from work.  

The quality of the water is checked daily and has to be approved by the authorities before swimmers are let in. There are five pools in all, two of which are specifically for children. The shallowest pool is 30 cm deep. The diving towers are one, three, and five metres high, respectively. 

Sandkaj Harbour Bath 

Sandkaj Harbour bath is an official bathing zone in the new Nordhavn quarter, where the boardwalk, the cafés and bathing guests create a lovely beach vibe. 

Sandkaj bathing zone is open year-round and is a part of the boardwalk in the newer part of town, Århusgadekvarteret in Nordhavn. During summer, this is a much-loved spot for sun-lounging and bathing in the harbour. 

Always packed on a warm summers evening out at Sandkaj harbour bath in Nordhavn. Photo : Daniel Rasmussen

The Århusgade quarter in Nordhavn is a new and exciting area where cafés and restaurants keep opening, creating a buzzing feel around the bathing zone. 

Sluseholmen Harbour Bath 

Harbour bath Sluseholmen is a small but beautifully designed area with swimming facilities in the southern part of Copenhagen’s harbour. 

The bath consists of a protective lagoon-like area for swimmers, divers and children with four pools: a children’s pool, a youth pool and two pools for exercise and diving. 

The shape of Havnebadet Sluseholmen is inspired by corals. 

Photo : Thomas Høyrup Christensen

Tour the canals as the captain of your own ship with GoBoat

Experience Copenhagen from a completely new perspective and explore the harbour at your own pace with GoBoat. You don’t need certification or sailing experience to drive a boat - just come aboard!  

Each boat fits eight people and has a picnic table in the middle, so you can enjoy good food, wine and chatter while Copenhagen slowly drifts by. The soundless boat engine ensures a calm atmosphere, and the scene is set for undisturbed experiences with the lucky few that you have invited onboard. As the captain of your own ship, you control where to go, following a guide given to you when you set sail.  

A sustainable tour of Copenhagen 

GoBoat has been developed with the environment in mind and offers a sustainable experience. Solar panels recharge the environmentally-friendly electric engines. GoBoat's wish is to treat the surroundings with respect and keep the harbour un scathed by their boats.  

Rent a solar-powered GoBoat and conquer sail through Copenhagen's harbour and canals on your own. Photo : Daniel Rasmussen

Get a bite to eat

Reffen is an organic street food market and urban area for start-ups, innovation and creativity in Refshaleøen in Copenhagen. 

All of the stalls have to follow the sustainable dogmas "Reduce and Reuse": Use compostable food service, reduce food waste, use organic, free-range and local ingredients wherever possible

At Reffen you’ll find more than 50 start-ups in the form of food stalls from all over, bars and creative workshops. Reffen consists of a 6000m2 area, and there is access to another 4000m2 site by the water, which is perfect for enjoying your dishes and drinks with front-row views of Copenhagen harbour. If you’re visiting during the colder seasons, do not fret. Reffen recently added Werkstatt, an old machine hall, to the mix. Here you can enjoy drinks, delicious food and hygge all year round.  

The ambition is to create a melting pot with a food market, creative workshops and start-ups, cultural experiences and innovative projects that attract and inspires both locals and tourists. 

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Copenhagen City Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

16 May 2023 · In: City Guide , Copenhagen , Denmark

Discover Copenhagen, the incredible capital of Denmark. From Indre By, its historic centre, to Amalienborg Palace, home to the royal family, and many beautiful gardens, this 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors or a long weekend getaway with friends. It will show you all the best things to do and guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of your Danish city break.

I discovered Copenhagen in February, and even though it was a bit cold and windy, I fell in love with those pretty colourful houses and even imagined myself living here! 

The atmosphere of the Danish capital, with its many bike lanes and green spaces, is truly unique. From the Old Town to Freetown Christiania, there is something for everyone.

Plus, if you are a history buff or art lover, you will find many attractions and activities suiting your taste, including the Christiansborg Palace and the Rosenborg Castle.

Keep reading this city guide to discover the perfect 3-day itinerary covering the top things to do and see so you can make the most of your time and enjoy your vacation stress-free – and without rushing. You will also find practical eco-friendly tips for responsible travel at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure  here .

7- Rosenborg Castle

• 5- The Little Mermaid 

5- Freetown Christiania

Overview: 3 perfect days in copenhagen.

DAY 1 – THE OLD TOWN

1- City Hall Square 2- Strøget & Gråbrødretorv 3- The Round Tower 4- Kultorvet Square 5- The Botanical Garden 6- Rosenborg Castle

DAY 2 – BY THE SEASIDE

1- Nyhavn District 2- Amalienborg Palace 3- Frederick Church 4- Kastellet Citadel 5- The Little Mermaid

DAY 3 – FREETOWN

1- Tivoli Gardens 2- Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek 3- Christiansborg Palace 4- Church of Our Saviour 5- Freetown Christiania

3 days in Copenhagen – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Detailed Copenhagen 3-day itinerary

This Copenhagen guide covers all the best things to do and see in 3 days and is perfect for travelling with family, friends or as a couple, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.

On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You can spend more days in the Danish capital or add other stops to your trip. Copenhagen has plenty to offer: you will not run out of ideas 🙂

READ MORE: 10 Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Copenhagen

Day 1 – Discovery of the Old Town

Get ready for your first day in Copenhagen! Put on some comfortable shoes, as this first day will involve a lot of walking across some of the cutest areas of the Danish capital.

1- City Hall Square

Your first stop will be the  City Hall Square , a public square in the centre of Copenhagen, located in front of the beautiful City Hall built in 1892-1905. Due to its large size and central location, it is a popular place for events and celebrations.

Take the time to walk around and appreciate the Romantic architecture of the building. If you have time, explore the City Hall or join a guided tour. You will learn more about the past of the capital and have the chance to enjoy breathtaking views from the Tower.

2- Strøget Street

You continue your journey to  Strøget , a pedestrian and car-free shopping area. This popular tourist attraction is one of the longest European pedestrian shopping streets at 1.1 km. 

It is the perfect place to wander and do some shopping! We bought our Copenhagen candle house from there, which we love. There are also plenty of food shops where you can enjoy local cuisine and traditional pastries. It was so good we kept stopping each time we passed through the street.

3- Gråbrødretorv Square

Gråbrødretorv  was one of my favourite squares! You will understand why once you discover this charming and colourful place, just off the busy streets. 

This historic and quiet square is an ideal place to relax and capture some Instagram-perfect shots and videos 🙂 Plus, in summer, it is a popular place to hang out and enjoy outdoor concerts.

We also stop for a coffee at Café Vito – a small but lovely shop. 

4- The Round Tower, Rundetaarn

Your next stop will be the  Round Tower , a 17th-century edifice built as an astronomical observatory. It is also renowned for its equestrian staircase, a spiral corridor leading to the platform at the top for sweeping views of Copenhagen.

The access to the outdoor platform is 40 DKK (around £5), and the panorama is worth seeing. Plus, it offers another perspective on the capital, which I always enjoy.

And if you are a culture lover, stop by the Grand Library Hall, an exhibition space for more in-depth knowledge of Danish history, art and science.

5- Kultorvet Square

Your discovery of Copenhagen continues with  Kultorvet  ( the coal square ), another beautiful public square in the Old Town.

Enjoy a well-deserved break at one of its many cafés and restaurants, or spend some time shopping for souvenirs. I also loved the flower markets and wish I could have brought some to the UK as the colours were so gorgeous! 🌸

6- The Botanical Garden

The  Copenhagen Botanical Garden  is a fantastic free green place to explore, filled with rare trees, shrubs and herbs. It encircles an area of 10 hectares and is well-known for its extensive complex of historical glasshouses, including a butterfly house and a tropical palm house dating from 1874.

Wander around and uncover over 13,000 species across different sections. You will find that the collection of 27 glass houses is spectacular. I would especially suggest visiting the Palm House, where you can climb the 16m high narrow iron spiral staircase.

Please note that access to the garden is free, but there is a small entrance fee for the Palm House and Butterfly House (the latter only open in summer), which is 60 DKK (around £7).

On a personal note, we did not have the chance to visit the Gardens as we were short on time and visited Copenhagen in winter (February) – which I regretted as it sounded like a great thing to do! Be mindful when choosing the season you go, as many things close in winter.

Your final stop of this first day in Copenhagen will be the  Rosenborg Castle , a Renaissance castle built initially as a country summer residence in 1606 and a perfect example of the architectural style of Christian IV.

This stunning castle is set in the charming King’s Garden and features 400 years of history and royal treasures, including the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia.

You can enjoy its architecture from the outside or join a guided tour to step back in time and admire well-preserved interiors, such as the personal writing cabinet of the King and his bathroom – something I recommend doing, especially perfect on a rainy day. 

Day 2 – By the seaside

Your second day in Copenhagen will take you to the seaside and through beautiful neighbourhoods. Bring a windproof jack (and thick socks, especially in winter) and get ready to discover a new side of the capital. 

1- Nyhavn District

Nyhaven  is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic sights in Copenhagen. The 17th-century colourful and bustling waterfront is a fascinating place to explore and a favourite spot among locals for relaxing by the canal. 

Originally built as a commercial port, it is now a lively harbour filled with cafés, bars and restaurants – and a dream location for photo lovers! The reflection of the multicoloured houses in the canal is magical, especially on a sunny day. 

Take the time to stroll around and appreciate the view. You can also join a canal tour, but I would not recommend this activity, as the boats are not environmental-friendly. I tried to look for electric ones but could not find any – please let me know in the comments if you know any eco-friendly company that offers boat tours in Copenhagen 🙂 

And, if you visit the Danish capital in December around Christmas, you will be rewarded with a festive market and delicious gløgg.

2- Amalienborg Palace

You continue your journey north to reach the  Amalienborg Palace , the official residence of the Danish Royal Family. Delve into one of the oldest monarchies in the world and get a behind-the-scenes look. Undoubtedly a must-see attraction for any history buffs and royal fans.

Take also the time to walk through the Palace Square and stop to watch the changing of the guards. And if you have a moment, step inside the Amalienborg Museum to see the private interiors of kings and queens and an exhibit on the current monarchy and its traditions.

3- Frederick Church

From Amalienborg Square, continue walking to reach the  Frederick Church , known as the Marble Church, with its impressive architecture. This way also provides a fantastic vantage point for photos, and it is impossible not to marvel in front of this stunning Church and its copper-green dome. 

Admission to the Church is free, so do not hesitate to step inside, as the interior is as beautiful as the exterior. Please note that you can also visit the dome for a small fee every day at 13:00 in the summer and only on weekends in winter.

4- Churchill Park & Kastellet Citadel

It is time to head north to the  Kastellet , a well-preserved citadel and fortresses constructed in a pentagon shape with bastions at its corners and set in the beautiful Churchill Park.

The fortress, founded in 1662, is still used for military activities but remains primarily a public park. On your wander, you will find canals, barracks, a small chapel and a windmill.

5- The Little Mermaid 

In the same area as the Kastellet Citadel, you will also come across your last stop of the day:  The Little Mermaid , a bronze statue made by sculptor Edvard Eriksen, depicting a mermaid becoming human, which is somehow one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Copenhagen. 

Inspired by the famous fairy tale of Hans Christian Andersen, you will find this sculpture on a rock by the water on the Langelinie promenade. It is something to see, but do not expect something incredible aha. The statue is not that big. 

Day 3 – The eclectic Copenhagen

Your last day in Copenhagen will take you on an eclectic journey through fascinating neighbourhoods, parks and museums. 

1- Tivoli Gardens

Your first stop on your last day in Copenhagen will be the  Tivoli Gardens , an amusement park and pleasure garden opened in 1843 and the third-oldest operating amusement park in the world. A must-do for any families with children or adults who want to have fun!

Unfortunately for us, the garden was closed in winter, which was a shame as it seemed like a great place to hang out. Besides the amusement park, you will also find green spaces to relax and enjoy outdoor concerts.

2- Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Next to the Tivoli Gardens, you will come across  Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek,  a museum displaying modern and ancient art founded in 1897 by brewer Carl Jacobsen. Not only renowned for its marble sculptures, step inside and immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere, from beautiful high ceilings to a stunning winter garden filled with palm trees, a fountain and a pond.

In the winter garden, you will also find the Café Picnic, where you can enjoy a coffee with a piece of cake in a peaceful environment.

3- Christiansborg Palace

You continue your journey to the  Christiansborg Palace , the seat of the Danish Parliament and once home to kings and queens. Uncover 800 years of royal history as you visit this remarkable building and staterooms.

Explore the Palace on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about the royal culture and past. It will take you through some of the most impressive rooms, from the Throne Room to the Great Hall and the Royal Reception Rooms. 

And if you feel adventurous, discover the underneath ruins, including a wall dating back to the Middle Ages and the former kitchens of the castle.

4- Church of Our Saviour

It is time to cross the sea and reach the other side of Copenhagen, with a first stop by the  Church of Our Saviour . Take the time to visit inside and admire its gorgeous Baroque architecture (I found Danish churches to be so minimalist, which I loved). 

And if you are not afraid of heights, climb up the external spiral winding staircase to the top and enjoy a stunning panorama over the Danish capital.

Please note that the Tower is closed in January. I also recommend booking your ticket in advance to avoid waiting once there and reserve your spot as they limit the number of people due to the narrow stairs.

You have reached the end of your trip! Your last stop on this 3-day itinerary in Copenhagen will be in  Freetown Christiania , a fascinating and eclectic neighbourhood (never experienced this anywhere else).

Stroll through the area and admire some unique wall art and houses (most built by their owners). You will also find several eco-restaurants, shops, galleries and outdoor music spaces.

And it is essential to remember that Christiania can be a rough area (mainly full of hash dealers), and I recommend following the rules. Do not take photos, run and talk on the phone. If you respect them, you will have no problem getting around. 

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Unforgettable experiences I recommend

How long to spend in copenhagen.

I suggest spending  at least 3 days  in Copenhagen, which is perfect for a long weekend getaway! 

3 days are great for immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Danish capital and discovering its main highlights and attractions – without rushing.

Plus, the city is easily accessible on foot, making it ideal for a city break. And if you are shorter on time, use the bike! You will not struggle to find one, trust me aha 🙂 

On the other hand, spending more time is always a great thing. It will allow you to discover more attractions at a slower pace.

My experience – I spent 3 days in Copenhagen, which was perfect for getting an overview of the city. We stayed close to the centre, so it was easy to walk around. We also find ourselves not rushing and stopping at many cute cafés in-between visits. 

Best time to visit Copenhagen

Summer (April to September)  is the best time to visit Copenhagen for warm weather and longer days. You will enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and sightseeing without worrying about getting wet or cold. But because these months are popular with tourists, it may mean that crowds can become quite large.

Therefore, you might want to discover the city in April, May or September, when the streets are quieter with the sun still shining.

Winter and Christmas can also be a lovely season to discover the capital, filled with cute markets and festive lights. Read more: Copenhagen Winter Guide: 10 Best Things to Do .

No matter what time of year you choose, I am sure you will have a wonderful time! 

My experience – I visited Copenhagen in February and had a great time! It was not busy, and the weather was good but cold (my feet were freezing!). But it was not a big problem. I packed carefully, and we stopped at many cafés to warm up. 

How to get around Copenhagen

You have multiple options to get around the Danish capital.

The easiest way to discover Copenhagen is by walking . The capital is not huge, and many of its best attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you can easily explore them on foot, even on a short day trip or weekend getaway. Plus, it is a great way to see the best sights whilst getting some exercise! 

Plus, walking will allow you to get lost in the colourful streets and discover hidden gems you might otherwise miss.

The other option is the bike ! Copenhagen is famous for its cycling activity. I was even shocked by the number I saw – the capital was full of them! Compared to the UK, it was impressive. 

They designed roads for bicycles and parking spaces. That is why exploring that way would be a fun and safe experience! And if you visit in winter, do not forget your coat, scarf and gloves.

Finally, if you are tired or too cold, use public transport to get around . Copenhagen has a reliable and efficient transportation system which includes the metro, bus and train.

Shop the printable travel itinerary

Create your dream city break & live a unique green experience.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

The best neighbourhoods in copenhagen.

Are you looking for the best place to stay in Copenhagen for 3 days? Here is an overview of the top neighbourhoods in the Danish capital:

• Strøget and the Old Town : the   best neighbourhood  for first-timers  due to its central location and access to the main attractions, including the famous Nyvahn.
• Østerbro : the best area to stay in Copenhagen  for families  seeking tranquillity and access to green spaces. You will also find nearby plenty of family-friendly activities, shops and restaurants. 
• Nørrebro : the best place to stay in Copenhagen for visitors  on a budget . It is a diverse neighbourhood with many local shops and restaurants with easy access to the centre.
• Vesterbro : the best district  for   nightlife , vibrant atmosphere and trendy shops. This energetic hub is perfect for living the best of the Danish capital and connecting with locals.
• Christianshavn : if  bohemian vibes  are what you love, look no further than Christianshavn. With narrow canals, street arts and indie shops, the area is ideal for a tranquil stay.

READ MORE: Where to Stay in Copenhagen: 6 Best Areas (& Hotels)

My experience

During our few days in Copenhagen, we stayed at the  Andersen Hotel , a trendy boutique hotel set in the vibrant Vesterbro area. Walking to the city centre was easy and quick, and the streets were quiet at night, with plenty of bars and restaurants around. 

Sustainable travel in Copenhagen

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller in Copenhagen is possible! Here are some sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint:

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.
• Walk as much as possible . Copenhagen is a compact city easily accessible on foot, and you will not produce any emissions. And if walking is too tiring, use the bike! The capital is ideal for cycling around at your own pace.
• Eat at local restaurants  that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and immerse yourself in the local vibe.

More inspiration for your green adventures:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Copenhagen travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city break in Copenhagen stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Copenhagen (the city undergoes strict daily quality controls). However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Copenhagen is easy and is a great way to explore the outside of the capital freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Copenhagen is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

3 days in Copenhagen – FAQ

Yes, 3 days are enough to discover Copenhagen and enjoy its top highlights and attractions. It will allow you to explore its diverse neighbourhoods, museums and many parks – without rushing!

Copenhagen is an expensive city to visit, like most Scandinavian countries. It is possible to explore the capital on a budget but bear in mind that you will still spend more money than you would in other cities.

Yes, absolutely! Copenhagen is a compact city, and all its best attractions are within walking distance of each other, so you can easily explore them on foot, even on a short day trip or weekend getaway.

And you, have you ever visited Copenhagen or would you like to go one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Best Time to VIsit Copenhagen For Weather, Festivals, and More

Weather in Denmark varies by season, so picking the  best time to visit Copenhagen  is vital! 

I think March, May, July, and August are the best times of the year to visit Copenhagen. 

There’s no blanket answer. We are all different, after all, and your idea of being too cold and rainy might differ from my own. 

Luckily, in the next few minutes, you’ll know the right time to plan your visit! First, things first we are going to break down the weather in Copenhagen, Denmark month by month. We’ll talk about rainfall, temperature, and prices. 

After that will dig a little deeper into what each month to the peak travel seasons, as well as festivals and events. 

Armed with this knowledge, you’ll figure out the best time of the year to visit Copenhagen. Plus we will go over things like the average temperatures by month. So you know when to visit the Nordic countries for mild weather, or during the hottest month of the year. As well as, daylight hours so you can get the most time to check outdoor activities off your bucket list in Denmark’s capital city. 

So get ready to learn the most popular time to visit Copenhagen to enjoy warm weather, street food, cultural events and more. 

Let’s get started. 

best time to visit Copenhagen 

The Weather Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen weather in january: .

Hate the cold? Then January is the roughest month to visit the Danish capital. The frigid winter weather -is at its peak. 

The average highs and lows are between 35°F – and 28°F, respectively. (1.6ºC – 2ºC). 

Average Rain and snowfall:  On average, it rains and snows around 15 -18 days in January. Let’s break that down further. January in Copenhagen gets around   14 days of rain, and 6 days of snow. 

The days are also short with sunrise around 8:30 am, and sunset between 3:30 – 4:00 pm. 

The average daylight in January is around 8 hours. But with a dismal 1 and a half hours of sunshine each day. 

January is not the best time to visit Copenhagen. 

Copenhagen Weather in February: 

Temperature-wise February is like January, with the  highest temperature  being a little warmer at  38°F and the lows sitting around 30°F ( 3°C -1°C). 

Average Rain and snowfall:  The city also gets around  6 – 12 days  of rain or snow in February. Although, the average precipitation in inches is much less than compared to January. 

February in Copenhagen gets around   4 days of snow and 11 days of rain.

Compared to January, visitors also get a couple more hours of sunlight, with sunrise taking place between 7 -8 am and the sun setting between 5- 6 pm. 

Average Daylight and Sunshine:  The days are around 9 – 10 hours with a little over 2 hours of sunshine per day. 

However, there are more things to do in Copenhagen compared to January, but more on that later. 

Copenhagen Weather in March: 

Is March the  best time  to visit Copenhagen? I mean, it’s the first month of Spring, right? The days are longer, and the weather is a little warmer! 

Although, not warm enough for those who hate the cold. March highs sit around 43°F (6°C). The lows are just above freezing at 33°F (0.5°C). Rainfall in  Copenhagen  also picks up in March with around 14 days of light rain. 

In March, the sun comes out early; around 6 – 7 am. And with sunset, taking place between 5:45 – 6:60 pm. 

The average length of daylight is 11.9 hours with almost 4 hours of sunshine. 

Copenhagen Weather in April: 

April is when spring picks up in Copenhagen. Though the weather isn’t “hot”. 

The highs sit around 51°F and the lows at around 40°F. (10°C – 4.4°C).

There’s also less rain with around 11 days during April. Denmark naturally gets a lot of rain, so 11 days in one month is pretty good. There’s also a chance for one or two days of snow in April. 

During April, we see the days getting a lot longer. The sun rises around 5:30 am and sets between 8 – 9 PM. 

With the average daylight lasting over 14 hours. With 6 hours of sunshine! 

The daylight, sunshine, and warmer weather all make April a contender for the best time of the year to visit Copenhagen. 

Copenhagen Weather in May: 

In May the temperatures hit their spring highs with temperatures finally itching the 60s. The nightly lows are in the high 40s (47°F) to low 50s. So expect temperatures around 62°F to 47°F (16°C – 8.3°C)

We get even longer days  in late May , with sunrise taking place between 4:30 – 5 am. And with most days, the sunset is between 9 – 10 pm.  

May also see less rain – with around 10 days – and the end of the snow. Listen, there’s always a lot of rain around the area. It’s just a fun fact about Denmark . 

On average, that is over 16 hours of daylight, and 8.5 hours of sunshine each day. 

Copenhagen Weather in June: 

Is the start of summer the  best time to visit Copenhagen ? Let’s find out. 

In June, temperatures are almost at their warmest, with the highs and lows reaching 68°F and 53°F (20°C – 11.6°C). This makes June the most comfortable time of the year to visit Copenhagen. 

Copenhagen gets an average of 12 days of light rain in June.

June ushers in the longest days of the year. In  early June , the sunrise happens promptly at 4:30. And the sunsets between 9:45 – 10:00 pm. Those are some long days! 

I mean, that gives you 17 hours of daylight and over 8 hours of sunshine. This gives you plenty of time to check off your 3 days in Copenhagen Itinerary . Check out some of the city’s primary sites, like Kronborg castle – a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  -, Egeskov castle, and the Viking ship museum.

Copenhagen Weather in July: 

July and August are Copenhagen’s warmest months of the year. Temperatures reach a high of the lower 70s. Nights bring low temperatures in the upper 50s. One average temperature sits between 71°F – 57°F (21°C – 13°C)

Sadly, July’s one of the wettest months as well. On average, July brings 12 days of rain with a rainfall of 51mm. 

The days run similar to June, with sunrise and sunset being at 4:30 am and 9:45 pm, respectively. 

Average that 17 hours of daylight and 8 hours of sunshine. So lots of time to see Amalienborg palace and Christiansburg palace.

You can also check out the beautiful cliffs and beaches at Møns Klint.

Copenhagen Weather in August: 

Temperatures in August are the same as in July. The days remain in the lower 70s and the night in the upper 50s. The average August temperature is 21°C (71°F).

It also rains around 12 days in August. However, in terms of the amount, it is slightly less than in July. 

The days also get shorter in August, with sunrise around 5:30 am and sunset around 8:45 – 9:00 pm. That’s an average of 15 hours of daylight and just under 8 hours of sunshine. 

Copenhagen Weather in September: 

In terms of heat, the  summer months  were the peak of the rollercoaster. Now it’s time to make our way down the hill. Don’t worry, it’s a slow descent, and September’s still a great time to visit Copenhagen. 

Temperatures are around  63 °F  / 52 °F (17°C / 11°C).

September’s also the rainiest month of the year. Copenhagen gets over 14 days of rain in September with a rainfall of 59mm. 

The days are also declining more with sunrise later – around 6:30 am – and sunset early between 7 -8 pm. September sunshine average is 12.8 hours a day. With 5 hours of sunshine. 

Copenhagen Weather in October: 

In October, the temperatures are sliding. We are now reaching daily highs of 54°F and lows of 45°F. Here comes the cold! (12°C – 7 °C).

And like September, this is one of the rainiest months of the year. It rains around 14 days of the month. There’s also a chance for snow, although it’s unlikely. 

Days are even shorter. Sunrise: 7 – 8 am. Sunset 5-6 pm (4 -5 once the clocks change). You still get an average of 10 hours of daylight. But it’s accompanied by a small 3 hours of sunshine.  

Copenhagen Weather in November: 

Brace yourself, because November and December are cold. 

November temperatures : Highs 40°F, and lows are 30°F (4.5°C – 1.1°C)

During November Copenhagen gets around 10 -15 days of rain. Copenhagen gets an average of 2 days of snow in November. 

The days are much shorter with sunrise between 7 -8 am and sunset around 3:45 – 4:15 pm. Making for 8 hours of daylight. But a dismal number of 2 hours of sunshine. 

Copenhagen Weather in December: 

December is cold but not as cold as January. Whether it’s day or night, the  temperatures  sit between the 40s and 30s. (between -1°C to -6 °C).

There’s an average of 16 days of rain and 4 days of snow in December.

Sunrise takes place around 8:15 – 8:30. With an early sunset around 3:30 – 3:45 pm. Those are some short days. If you decided that the best time to visit Copenhagen is in December expect 7 hours of daylight, and around 1 hour of sunshine a day. 

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen: Tourist Seasons

Another thing we have to think about when choosing the best time to visit Copenhagen is other travelers. Not only does this affect crowds and lines but also prices for hotels, and hours of operation for many sites. 

Let’s take a quick look at the different tourist seasons to travel to Copenhagen! 

Best Time to Visit Denmark | Peak Season 

Like many countries in Europe; Copenhagen’s peak tourist season is during the summer months. July and August are the busiest months of the year. But  the summer season  is the busiest time to visit the city. The city center and central station are more packed with travelers. 

This means you’ll have to deal with larger crowds. However,  Copenhagen  never draws long lines like other countries in Europe, like Italy or France. You can easily get around Copenhagen during its peak tourist season without fighting massive crowds. 

Tourism also picks up for the Christmas Season. Which is a mystery to me after experiencing frigid December weather. 

This is when you will have long lines for top Copenhagen Denmark attractions like Christiansborg Palace, Tivoli Garden, the Round Tower, and more. 

Plus places like Freetown Christiania, Central Copenhagen, and the Copenhagen City Hall – City Hall Square are busier. 

Best Time to Visit Denmark | Shoulder Season

Shoulder Season: It’s the little gasps of breath between the low  tourist season  and peak season. You’ll see some tourism, but not much. Prices are also cheaper compared to peak season, and it’s you have a better chance of getting a table at a Michelin-rated restaurant. 

Shoulder Season months in Copenhagen are March, April, September, and October.

And a great time to visit Copenhagen as the Danish capital is less crowded making it more enjoyable to visit places like the Copenhagen Opera house, the National Museum, or go on a road trip. And plan an epic day trip from Copenhagen . 

Best Time to Visit Denmark | Low Season

Low Season: Just look at the weather above and it is pretty obvious that most people want to avoid Copenhagen during the winter months when the days are short, the weather is freezing, and they’re a good chance of snow. 

Many of the things to do in Copenhagen have reduced hours during the winter as there aren’t many tourists. Of course, less tourism means lower prices. Hotel prices in Copenhagen are lower in the  winter months . 

Best Time to Visit Copenhagen: Festivals and Events by Month

This is another key factor in planning the best time to visit Copenhagen. We need to know what’s going on! 

Is January the Best Time to Visit Denmark 

Because of the cold temperatures, January doesn’t have a lot going on. But if you’re a fan of Christmas Markets and Christmas Fairs, then head to The Christmas Fair in Tivoli Gardens, which ends Jan 5th. 

If you want to see the northern lights, then this is the time to visit. Just like the best time to visit Iceland . Sadly, You can’t see them from Denmark, but head over to the nearby Scandinavian Country, Sweden, to see them. This is perhaps the coldest month to visit Denmark. But you can stay at the best hostels in Copenhagen for a cheaper price. And not as packed.

And if you head to Sweden, make sure to check out some of the things that Sweden is famous for!

Is February the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen 

Early to mid-February brings the Vinterjazz festival (or Winter Jazz festival) This takes place across the entire country. However, it’s heavily celebrated in Copenhagen. 

Late February brings Fastelavn. This celebration marks the beginning of the end of winter. It’s still celebrated anciently, and the celebration revolves around the children. Kids wear costumes and go around the town asking for candy or money. Along the way, they sing, parade, and dance from door to door.  

Is March the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen

March is a busy month for festivals in Copenhagen . And if they pique your interest, then it might just be the best time of the year to visit Copenhagen. 

Starting in late February to early March is the Copenhagen Light Festival. Using the dark of their  winter months  to their advantage, the Danes light up the town with bright and artistic exhibitions and installations. These lights illuminate the entire downtown, in a wild and wacky festival. It’s cool. 

March brings the CPH: DOX, which is an international documentary festival. It’s the largest International doc festival in the world. Most of the time, the festival takes place in mid-march. 

Is April and May the Best Time to Visit Denmark 

There are a lot of Easter Celebrations in Denmark.

 In May, there is one big celebration.

May Day. May first bring huge celebrations in Copenhagen. It’s Mayday! And this means big parties and parades. 

Is the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen June, July, and August

Spring festival: An international children’s festival in Copenhagen, Denmark. The festival emphasizes theatre and performance. And contains shows from around the world. The festival lasts for a week. 

June 5th is also Denmark’s  independence day . 

And the summer is when the famous  Roskilde festival  takes place. One of the things that Denmark is known for !

Distortions: This pub crawl, festival, and block party. It travels through the different districts of the city throwing street parties. They set up distortion clubs around the city and host bands and DJs.

Copenhagen Cooking and Food Festivals: Foodies won’t want to miss these festivals. It’s 10 days of Danish food, cooking classes, music, and more. There are chefs, lessons, and tastes from all over the world. 

Other summer festivals

Jazz Festival

Red Bull Copenwakem

Fashion Week

Copenhagen Pride

Strøm 

September, October, November, and December

Blue Festivals: in Late September. This is 4 -5 days of Blues celebrated throughout the city. With various blues artists from around the world. 

Mis Copenhagen: The oldest film festival in Copenhagen. Also, one of the oldest LGBTQ film festivals in the world. 

October 9th: Culture Night. The entire city works together to highlight the city’s history and danish culture. Over 250 museums, churches, parks, and libraries take part. 

September is when the  Copenhagen blues festival  and  Copenhagen jazz festival.

Wettest Month to visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a beautiful city to visit any time of year, but if you’re looking to avoid the rain, there are a few months you’ll want to avoid. The wettest month in Copenhagen is August, with an average of 2.1 inches of rain. July and September are also quite wet, with average rainfall of 1.7 inches and 1.5 inches, respectively. If you can, it’s best to visit Copenhagen in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is mild and there’s less rain. The average rainfall in April is 1.1 inches, and in October it’s 1.3 inches.

Copenhagen has an average annual rainfall of 26 inches. The rainiest months are August, July, and September, while the driest months are April and May.

The Windiest Month to Visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a beautiful city to visit any time of year, but if you’re looking to avoid the wind, there are a few months you’ll want to avoid. The windiest month in Copenhagen is December, with an average wind speed of 20.7 mph. January and February are also quite windy, with average wind speeds of 17.7 mph and 16.7 mph, respectively. If you can, it’s best to visit Copenhagen in the summer, when the weather is mild and the wind is at its calmest. The average wind speed in July is just 14.9 mph. So you have cold winds and chilly breezes making it a bad time to visit the Copenhagen.

So when is the best time to visit Copenhagen? When we consider the weather, festivals, hours of daylight, and hours the sites are open, there is no doubt. Late spring through summer is the best time to visit Copenhagen. You will pay a little more in the summer, but the sheer amount of things to do makes it worth it.

So when is the  best time  to visit Copenhagen? When we consider the weather, festivals, hours of daylight, and hours the sites are open, there is no doubt. Late spring through summer is the best time to visit Copenhagen. You will pay a little more in the summer, but the sheer amount of things to do makes it worth it. 

The peak of winter is the worst time to visit Copenhagen as the days are shorter, fewer things are open, and it’s freezing. So you don’t have a lot of chances to explore the best places in Denmark. Including the Scandinavian country side and sites like  Rosenborg Castle . Although you’ll pay slightly less for hotels during this time of the year. 

Overall, Denmark is one of the best countries in Northern Europe. And great deals like the Copenhagen Card make it a great place to visit from the United States , South Africa, New Zealand, or anywhere else in the world. So pick the  best time to visit Denmark  and pack your bags!

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The Best Time to Visit Copenhagen 2024: the Ultimate Guide

Copenhagen is a city that combines historic charm with cutting-edge modernity. The capital of Denmark has it all, whether you like to enjoy fine dining, beautiful scenery, great nights out, or classic tourist attractions. Plus, this fascinating city is easy to get around, and most locals speak English well, making the city extremely welcoming for foreign visitors.

Visiting Copenhagen is the perfect way to get an introduction to Danish culture and history. With famous sites like the Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen Opera House, and the Tivoli Gardens , there's plenty to see and do in the city whenever you visit.

But when is the best time to visit Copenhagen? Well, that depends on what you want to do with your trip. Denmark isn't exactly renowned for good weather, and Copenhagen weather can be unpredictable. No matter when you visit Copenhagen, you'll need to plan to encounter everything from sunshine to rain to the possibility of snow in the winter.

There is one thing you can count on, though. You'll be able to find luggage storage in Copenhagen that will make it much easier for you to get around. Drop off your bags at a Copenhagen luggage locker and get ready to explore the cultural events, coffee shops, museums, and authentic Danish food of this capital city.

Summer In Copenhagen

Planning a summer break in Copenhagen? You're not the only one. The summer months are definitely the busiest in Copenhagen, Denmark, thanks to the higher possibility of warm weather and less rain. June in Copenhagen sees average temperatures of 63°F (17°C), which rise to an average of 68°F (20°C) in July and August.

The warmer weather brings out the best in Copenhagen, making it the perfect time to enjoy all the city has to offer, from its canals to its museums. If you're visiting Copenhagen in summer, you'll be able to take part in a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming in Copenhagen Harbour Baths, sunbathing in one of the city's many parks, or taking a leisurely stroll along the canals.

Copenhagen is also home to a number of festivals in the summer months, including the Copenhagen Jazz Festival and the Copenhagen Pride Parade. If you're visiting during July, you'll also be able to enjoy the annual fireworks display on Copenhagen harbour, which is one of the largest in Europe.

Despite being one of the busiest times of the year, summer is still a great time to visit Copenhagen if you're looking to avoid the crowds. Many tourists flock to the city in the summer months, but Copenhagen is large enough that you can still find plenty of quiet corners to enjoy. Plus, many locals leave the city to enjoy summer homes in the Danish countryside, reducing the city crowds and leaving the streets to the tourists.

If you plan to visit Copenhagen in the summer, you'll need to dress for warm weather, but don't forget comfortable walking shoes. And don't forget that, as with other Nordic countries, it's possible to experience rain at any time of year here. Summer months tend to be drier, but even August usually averages eight days of rain, so a light rain jacket or an umbrella will be useful additions to your luggage.

Fall in Copenhagen

Fall is a great time to visit Copenhagen if you're looking for fewer crowds and lower prices. The weather in September and October is still relatively mild, with average temperatures of 59°F (15°C), but the days start to get shorter, so you'll want to make the most of the daylight hours.

This is also a good time of year for cultural events in Copenhagen. Many of the city's museums have special exhibitions during the fall months, and you'll be able to enjoy live music and theater performances throughout the city. If you're visiting in October, don't miss Halloween in Tivoli Gardens, where the amusement park is transformed into a spooky wonderland complete with a haunted house.

Of course, as autumn sets in, there's also the chance of rain, so pack your rain gear and be prepared for cooler temperatures. A light jacket or sweater should be enough to keep you comfortable during the day, but you may need something warmer for evenings out.

The Copenhagen weather notwithstanding, Fall can be an excellent time to visit the city. In September and early October, you'll still enjoy warm weather, and you'll get to see the leaves change color in the Tivoli Gardens and other parks around the city. You can also catch some interesting cultural events at this time of year, like the Copenhagen Blues Festival . This is also a great time to enjoy some indoor activities or embark on a delicious tour of Copenhagen street food. And if the weather turns sour on you, you can always seek refuge in the nearest bar or coffee shop, ideally one with a fireplace, and enjoy the famous Danish hygge, or coziness.

Winter in Copenhagen

Copenhagen weather can be unpredictable in winter, but you can still expect cooler temperatures and the possibility of snowfall from December to February. The average temperature in December is 37°F (3°C), which drops to an average of 34°F (1°C) in January and February.

Despite the colder weather, there's still plenty to do in Copenhagen in winter. The city comes alive with Christmas markets in November and December, and you can skate on the frozen canals or enjoy a festive meal at one of the city's many restaurants.

If you're visiting Copenhagen in winter, be sure to pack warm clothes, including a hat, scarf, and gloves. It can also be helpful to have a pair of comfortable walking shoes or boots, as the sidewalks can be icy. And if you're planning to spend time outdoors, don't forget your sunscreen – even in winter, the sun's rays can reflect off the snow and damage your skin.

The Danish capital doesn't get the kind of snow and ice you'll find further north in Sweden and Norway. Instead, you can expect rain, and plenty of it. Average rainfall in Copenhagen is around 100 millimeters (4 inches) in December, 125 millimeters (5 inches) in January, and 110 millimeters (4 inches) in February. So be sure to pack your rain gear and an umbrella.

But if you do encounter some snow while you visit Copenhagen, there's no better place to enjoy it than at a Christmas market. Copenhagen has several enchanting Christmas markets where you'll be able to enjoy seasonal street food and drink, find unique gifts, and soak up the festive atmosphere while breathing in the comforting aroma of mulled wine and glogg, a stronger hot seasonal drink that has a wonderful way of chasing the cold away. But for arguably the most spectacular Christmas market in Copenhagen, Denmark, the one held at Tivoli Gardens is hard to beat. Starting in early December, this huge market offers great gifts and souvenirs, a unique atmosphere, and some of the best street food in the city.

Winter is also the time of year when you'll have the best chance of seeing one of nature's greatest spectacles, the Northern Lights. While you're unlikely to see them in Copenhagen itself, you can take a day trip to the north of Zealand, where there's a greater chance of seeing them.

Spending Christmas and New Year's Eve in Copenhagen is an experience that's well worth braving inclement weather. The Christmas lights - not to mention a cup or two of glogg - will drive away the chill, and it's also the best time to enjoy the winter sports that are so popular with Danes. Enjoy the festive season with a winter break in Copenhagen, and you'll see a side to the city that many tourists miss out on.

Spring in Copenhagen

Copenhagen weather starts to warm up in spring, with average temperatures of 48°F (9°C) in March, 52°F (11°C) in April, and 55°F (13°C) in May.

This is a great time of year to visit Copenhagen if you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy mild weather and long days of sunshine. April is particularly lovely when the city comes alive with blossoming trees and flowers.

There are also plenty of events and festivals taking place in Copenhagen in spring. One of the most popular is International Women's Day on March 8, which celebrates women's achievements with a series of talks, performances, and exhibitions. Other highlights include Easter Monday celebrations, the Royal Danish Ballet's annual spring season, and the Food Festival in early May.

As the weather warms up, more tourists arrive in Copenhagen by the day. But even into early June, the crowds remain more manageable than they become from mid-July onwards. Therefore, spring is an excellent time to see Copenhagen, Denmark, like the locals do - on two wheels. Take a guided or self-guided tour on a rental bike to see some of the city's top attractions like Nyhavn Canal , the Rosenborg Castle , and the Amalienborg Palace, among others, and you'll really be making the most of the shoulder season. With plenty of sunny days amid the rain, you won't regret taking a spring break in the city. Just remember to bring some rain gear, and don't forget that nights can still get quite chilly.

When is the best time to visit Copenhagen for you?

Copenhagen is a city with plenty to do. From the impressive royal palaces of the Danish monarchy to family-friendly attractions like Copenhagen Zoo and Tivoli Gardens, it's very easy to stay busy in the Danish capital. However, choosing the best time to visit Copenhagen requires you to think carefully about what you most want to do.

If your perfect Copenhagen trip involves leisurely meals at sidewalk cafés, long walks in leafy parks, and fun outdoor concerts and other events, your best bet is to visit during the summer. A visit from early July through to August means you get some of the best weather Copenhagen has to offer, perfect for spending time outdoors. On the downside, you also have to endure tourist crowds and higher prices for hotels than at any other time of year.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall provide a good balance. Sunny days are common in September through to mid-October, and things start to warm up again from March. However, these are some of the wettest months in Copenhagen, so you'll need to be prepared for rain. Still, the lesser crowds and cheap accommodation prices may well make it worth your while to visit in the off-season.

Winter in Copenhagen is a completely different animal. Yes, you'll experience some of the worst weather the city has to offer. But you also get to take part in exciting winter sports and enjoy the traditional beauty of Copenhagen at Christmas time. Therefore, if you're a fan of Christmas, indoor activities, or just want to avoid crowds, the winter can be an excellent time to visit this north European country. Whenever you choose to visit, you'll find Copenhagen welcoming and packed with great things to see and do. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage so you can explore the Danish capital in comfort, and you'll soon be planning a return trip, no matter what the weather is doing.

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• Posted on January 1, 2022 August 4, 2022
• by DIS Abroad

Where to Enjoy Summer in Copenhagen: Our Top 10 Recommendations

Summer is a wonderful time to experience Copenhagen. There is almost constant light and the locals spend most of their time outside, enjoying the many activities the city has to offer and the beauty of nature everywhere. You too can do most of these activities on a budget while getting a taste of true Danish culture!

Read on to find out more about our top 10 summer hangouts in and around Copenhagen:

1. Taking a dip in the harbor at Islands Brygge

The quintessential summer activity in Copenhagen is harbor swimming and there isn’t a better place to take a dip than the harbor baths at Islands Brygge. The pools, lawn, and decks are popular, but you can always bring some food and drinks and find a spot to kick back and relax in the sun.

2. Climb to the top of Church of our Savior

This church in Christianshavn looks like a chocolate cake, and the climb to the top of the bell tower is definitely worth it. It’s a great place to snap pictures of the expanse of the city and to see just how large Copenhagen is.

3. Stroll in the gardens of Frederiksborg Castle

Located in a suburb of Copenhagen, the Frederiksborg Castle and gardens are lovely for an afternoon visit outside the city. The castle architecture and museum are fantastic, but walking around the grounds and taking a boat out on the lake your visit extra special.

4. Check out the street art of Christiania

Freetown Christiania happens to be drenched in vibrant graffiti, sculptures, and other street art. It’s worth the trip just to explore these non-commissioned works. Bonus: it’s free!

5. Searching for the Six Forgotten Giants

Take a day and set out to find the Six Forgotten Giants in the suburbs and woods of Copenhagen. They are massive giants made out of scrap wood that were created by Danish artist and designer, Thomas Dambo, with the help of local volunteers. Each giant has a name and a unique personality and pose. 

6. Take a trip to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

It’s always nice to take a weekend trip to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art at Humlebæk. The journey is about 45 minutes by train from Copenhagen. The museum has a gorgeous display of art collections and the building itself has a gorgeous interior. Outside the museum, you can take in the sculptures are scattered around the garden and a beautiful view looking towards the shores of Øresund.

7. Grab brunch at Café Paludan

This little brunch and coffee spot is close to DIS and serves decadent dishes without breaking your wallet! It has delicious Saturday morning food and the atmosphere feels like you are eating in a library.

8. Stroll around the harbor neighborhoods

Copenhagen has a ton of hidden gems and allowing yourself to walk aimlessly will introduce you to countless new parts of the city. Walking by the water, especially in Nyhavn, will allow you to experience picturesque streets and gorgeous music. From street musicians to local bands, this area is always popping on summer nights. You can also head over to Christianshavn to take in the sun on the beautiful harbors or bike to Refshaleøen for the street food market at Reffen or stop to take a dip in the harbor.

9. Have a picnic in one of the many parks throughout Copenhagen

On any pretty night of the summer, most Copenhageners will be sitting in a park sharing food and drinks. Groceries in Copenhagen are wonderfully fresh and extremely inexpensive. Grab a few friends, or even a good book, pack a lunch, and spend a few hours sitting in one of the many gorgeous parks. Some favorites are Frederiksberg Have, Fælledparken, and Kongens Have, which is only 10 minutes from DIS and a great place to enjoy a picnic under the shadow of a gorgeous castle.

10. Spend a day at Amager Strand beach

Amager Strand is just a few metro stops from the center of Copenhagen and gives you the chance to experience the beach without having to travel too far. It’s a great place to lay out, swim in the Baltic, read a book, enjoy a packed lunch, or even just hang out and talk with friends. The man-made beach has a view of the Øresundsbroen bridge that connects Denmark and Sweden and some gorgeous windmills too. There are free concerts, sports courts, and parties happening here year-round, and it’s a great place to interact with Danish families.

Get Some More Scandinavian Culture

>>  Essential and Accessible Places to Visit in Denmark

>>  Kalle’s Book Picks

>>  Scandinavia as Your Kitchen

More about DIS

>>  DIS Copenhagen >>  DIS Stockholm

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Summer in Scandinavia: five eco-friendly ideas to holiday like a local

The essence of a Nordic summer is to lean into a slower pace of life and embrace nature, from staying in a Swedish summer house to gentle canoe tours in Finland

Oslo: summer in the city

With swimmable harbours in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki and across Denmark’s cities, not to mention plenty of ways to enjoy the sea, from kayaking to urban fishing, there’s often a seaside air to Nordic cities in summer, and especially in Oslo.

One of the best summer activities is to tour the Oslofjord and its archipelago by boat – pack a picnic and set sail in search of hidden swimming spots and colourful island houses. Brim Explorer is one of the best options: an eco-friendly boat company offering silent tours powered by an electric motor (tours from £44). You can also show your love for the water by joining Mad Goats in their fjord clean-up operations every Sunday; participation gives you access to one of their saunas for free and a free burger at the end.

There’s a growing art scene to discover around the harbour. The National Museum is showing an unmissable exhibition by Sápmi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba focused on the environmental struggle and climate issues seen from an indigenous perspective, until August. Afterwards, stroll around the harbour promenade past the opera house, and visit the Munch Museum . There is a new family-friendly beach, Operastranda, by the Opera House this year; it’s also great to swim at the Sørenga seawater pool . Stay at the eco-conscious Oslo Guldsmeden , a Nordic-Balinese hotel in the Vika district from £100 a night.

Explore Denmark ’s sunniest isle

Bornholm is officially the Danes’ favourite holiday spot (as voted for last year in the Danish Travel Awards). Reachable by bus and ferry or hydrofoil from Copenhagen, it’s known as the country’s sunshine island: Svaneke, a charming harbour town on the west coast, is the sunniest spot in the whole of Denmark.

There’s no need for a car: you can get around relatively easily by bike and bus to explore fishing villages and small towns such as Gudhjem, known for its national cooking competition , and sunny Svaneke, in search of the best ice-cream, smoked herring and locally brewed beer. Bornholm has an artist colony vibe reminiscent of parts of Cornwall and is well known for its ceramics. You can find small workshops and galleries dotted around its villages, and especially in the town of Nexø, where there is a ceramics school. Beaches are wide, sandy and beautiful – especially child-friendly, dune-backed Dueodde, which Lonely Planet recently listed as one of the 20 best beaches in Europe .

New this year, Eco Beach Camp offers glamping from about £150 a night (sleeping two to four) on the beach just steps from the island’s Michelin-starred Kadeau restaurant, known for its focus on hyper-local, sustainable food. Or rent a summer house through firms including Novasol and Dancenter where rates start from about £300 for a week’s stay. It’s expected that you’ll bring basics with you, including bed linen.

Norway’s Arctic hiking route

Culture and nature come together on Norway’s longest hiking route this summer. The 400-mile Nordlandsruta , which runs along the Norwegian-Swedish border, will be joining in the celebrations to mark the Arctic city of Bodø’s year in the spotlight as one of 2024’s European Capitals of Culture. There are a range of artist-led events in cabins along the trail, and activities include poetry and portrait workshops and a mobile perfumery making scents from the herbs that hikers pick along the route.

Evening entertainment includes campfire cooking, improv theatre and Sápmi lassoo throwing. It also plays into another key Nordic travel theme: friluftsliv , a love of the great outdoors. Norwegians love to hike and there is an extensive network of trails, with hiking cabins along them, across the country.

It’s a beautiful hike – whether you’re in the region for the celebrations or not – passing through the Arctic Circle, Laponian Area world heritage site , national parks and Sápmi cities. From meadows filled with wildflowers to snow-capped mountains, reindeer-herding plateaux and raging rivers, it has all the drama you’d expect of this northern landscape. There are 43 unstaffed huts on the route – you’ll need a key from Norwegian trekking organisation DNT to use them.

To walk the whole route would take around six weeks, but it’s broken down into eight smaller stages for those with less time. For ramblers with an eye on reindeer herding and Sápmi husbandry, the 57-mile stretch from Raudlia to Susendalen treks across two valleys and past the hat-shaped Hatten mountain while the 45-mile section from Bolna to Umbukta skirts the sacred Sápmi mountain of Auronasen, silver mines and a glacier. Weekend hikes along the trail are also possible from Narvik and Bodø.

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Finland’s peaceful waterways

If you like lakes, islands and trees, Finland is the place for you – it is the most forested country in Europe and has more bodies of water than any other country in the world . In the Kainuu region in the east of the country, it’s easy to get away from the crowds for pure immersion in Nordic nature.

Nature Travels offers self-guided canoe tours in the region where you can camp wild along the route, fish for your supper and go at your own pace. The pick of the bunch is a remote adventure on the Tar Route (from £154 per person, for three nights/four days, based on two people, including all equipment and transfers to start point), the historic route once used to transport tar to the Baltic Sea. Instead of tar, your cargo will be just yourselves, your tent and enough food for a four to eight-day tour of quiet waterways, short and easily bypassed rapids, and protected islands.

Along the route you might spot moose, foxes, owls or even eagles. Stop to fish for your dinner, cook it on an open fire and retire to a lean-to shelter or tent in the evening. Look out, too, for island saunas, dotted along the route, where you can ease the tension in your back and arms after a hard day’s paddle. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent: Finland’s forests are known for their pesky flies.

This route commonly starts from Kuhmo, accessed by train and bus from Helsinki, while Helsinki itself can be reached by ferry from Stockholm if you prefer not to fly.

Stay in a Swedish summer house

It’s traditional in this part of the world to spend at least part of the summer in a “summer house” (actually more of a simple cabin) in nature. The essence of summer house life is leaning into a slower pace of life: read a book under a tree, bake a cake, a gentle walk. It’s about living in harmony with nature, too, and embracing the joys it offers, including sea swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.

The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most accessible and popular summer house destinations. Access is via one of the many public ferries (one-way trips from the city pier cost up to £14 depending on the location). It’s as easy as taking a bus.

The region is protected by the Archipelago Foundation , which preserves public access to land and water in the area, and has a wide range of characterful accommodation spread all over the islands. They include a 19th-century former customs house on the remote and rocky island of Huvudskär, remade into a rustic youth hostel (room rates from £186 for a four-bed room), as well as summer cottages on the activity-packed southern island of Utö, where two-person cabins start at around £338 for a week in high season.

Summer cottages usually require you to bring bed linen. Depending on which island you choose, you might need to bring all your supplies for the week too. Peak season for Scandinavia is typically July – travel in August for slightly reduced rates.

Copenhagen-based Laura Hall writes the Modern Scandinavian newsletter

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

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With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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United Airlines offers 13% flight discount for 1 day in honor of Taylor Swift album

United Airlines knows how to get the Swifties' attention.

In tandem with Taylor Swift's newly released 11th studio album -- a double album titled "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology" -- which dropped Thursday, the Chicago-based carrier is offering a 13% discount on certain economy class domestic flights.

How to snag a United Airlines flight discount thanks to the new Taylor Swift album

The first 1,900 customers to use the promo code "April19" in the United app can redeem the airfare promotion for travel between Aug. 21 through Nov. 13, 2024.

The dates align with Swift's U.S. concert schedule to help Swifties planning to travel for her show.

"Let’s say after exploring Cornelia Street, Louis wants to travel from New York to Miami, Florida for a long weekend," a representative for the airline told ABC News in an emailed statement. "By using the code 'April19' in the United app, Louis can save more than $50 on a round trip ticket before August slips away. Of course, the total amount of the discount depends on the fare selected."

Swift's new album is already a massive hit with Spotify users, reportedly becoming the music platform's most streamed album in a single day in 2024 thus far, according to Billboard .

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