Copenhagen! A city brimming with history, culture, and modern charm.

Danes are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome. This city consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. Copenhagen is home to the world's longest pedestrian shopping street, Strøget.

Best time to visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a Baltic climate, which means cold winters and mild summers. Summer in Copenhagen (June to August) is the best season for good weather and endlessly long evenings. The outdoor living is in full swing, with locals enjoying the city's parks, pubs, and outdoor dining.

Visa

For Filipinos wanting to explore this vibrant city, I suggest applying for a Schengen Visa 3~5 months in advance.

Basic requirements:

• Schengen Visa Application Form:

• Passport

• Schengen Visa Application Form

• Passport

• Passport-sized Photos

• Cover Letter

• Travel Itinerary

• Travel Medical Insurance

• Proof of Accommodation

• Proof of Financial Means

• Proof of Civil Status

• Proof of Employment or Studies

• Invitation Letter (if applicable):

Getting from Copenhagen airport to the city

• By Train or Metro

  Both the metro and train run from Terminal 3 of Copenhagen Airport to the city, taking just 15 minutes.

  Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the DSB ticket machines or the DSB ticket office in Terminal 3. Alternatively, you can use the DOT app.

  Train Destination: Trains run frequently to Copenhagen Central Station (Københavns Hovedbanegård), which is centrally located and connects to various parts of the city.

  Metro Destination: Take the M2 line towards Vanløse. Key stops include Nørreport Station, which is centrally located and offers connections to various metro and train lines.

  Tips: Ensure you have a valid ticket before boarding trains, metros, or buses to avoid fines.

   

• By Bus

  Duration: Approximately 30-35 minutes

  Route: Several bus lines run from the airport to different parts of the city. The 5C bus is a popular option.

  Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines in the airport or directly from the bus driver (cash only).

  Destination: The 5C bus goes through the city center, including stops at Copenhagen Central Station and Nørreport Station.

  Tips: Most public transport options have space for luggage.

   

• By Taxi

  Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes

  Cost: The fare to the city centre is usually around 250-350 DKK

  

   

How expensive is Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is known for being a pricey destination, but it is still possible to explore the city on a budget.

To give you an idea of the possible expenses in Copenhagen, here are some typical costs:

• Cup of coffee: 35 DKK

• Dish at a food market: 85 DKK

• Main meal in a mid-range restaurant: 150-250 DKK

• Glass of wine: 60-80 DKK

• Pint of beer: 50-70 DKK

• Public transport ticket (single ride): 24 DKK

• Bicycle rental (per day): 100-150 DKK

• Entrance to Tivoli Gardens: 145 DKK (entrance only)

• Museum entry fee: 90-150 DKK

• Hostel bed (per night): 200-400 DKK

• Hotel room (mid-range, per night): 800-1500 DKK

City Pass or Copenhagen Card?

• Which One to Choose?

  • Choose the Copenhagen Card if: You plan to visit multiple attractions and museums and want the convenience of having both transport and entry fees included.

  • Choose the City Pass if: You primarily need unlimited public transport and prefer to pay for attractions individually, or if your itinerary includes fewer paid attractions.

     

• Copenhagen Card

  Benefits:

  • Free Admission: Includes free entry to over 80 attractions and museums, such as Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the National Museum.

  • Unlimited Public Transport: Offers unlimited use of public transportation (buses, trains, and metro) within the entire Capital Region, including travel to and from the airport.

  • Convenience: One card covers all your transport and entry needs, making it easy to manage your sightseeing.

  Options: Available in 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, 96-hour, and 120-hour versions.

  Ideal For:

  • Travelers who plan to visit multiple attractions and museums.

  • Those who want the convenience of having transport and entry fees covered in one card.

     

• City Pass

  Benefits:

  • Unlimited Public Transport: Provides unlimited travel on buses, trains, and the metro within specific zones, including travel to and from the airport.

  • Two Versions:

    • City Pass Small: Covers zones 1-4, which includes central Copenhagen and the airport.

    • City Pass Large: Covers zones 1-99, which includes a wider area and is ideal for longer trips or visits to attractions outside the city centre.

  Options: Available in 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, 96-hour, and 120-hour versions.

  Ideal For:

  • Travelers who mainly need unlimited public transport.

  • Those who may not visit many paid attractions or prefer to pay for attractions individually.

But even with the city card, you may not get value because Copenhagen is best seen on foot or by bicycle.

3-Day Itinerary for Copenhagen

• Day 1: Historical and Cultural Highlights

  • Kastellet

    We started our walk in the tranquility of a star-shaped fortress. Kastellet is a well-preserved star-shaped fortress dating back to the 17th century. It remains an active military site but is open to the public for walks and exploration.

  • The Little Mermaid

    We headed down to the Langelinie promenade to see the iconic statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. The statue was a gift from brewer Carl Jacobsen to the city of Copenhagen and has been a symbol of the city since 1913. It was crowded when we got there, so it might probably be best to visit there early in the morning.

    

  • Designmuseum Denmark

    We decided to take a short break at the nearby museum. The museum showcases Danish and international design, including furniture, fashion, and graphic design.

  • Frederik's Church (The Marble Church)

    We then passed an impressive dome, Frederik's Church is a beautiful example of Rococo architecture. There is an option to climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city.

  • Amalienborg Palace

    The winter residence of the Danish royal family consists of four identical palaces surrounding an octagonal courtyard.

    Be sure to arrive here before noon for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

  • Rosenborg Castle

    This Renaissance castle houses the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia. This castle was originally built as a country summerhouse in 1606 and is now home to the Danish crown jewels. By the way, purchase a combined ticket for Rosenborg Castle and Amalienborg Palace to save money.

  • King's Garden

    The oldest royal garden in Denmark, located adjacent to Rosenborg Castle. Bring a picnic or buy snacks to enjoy in the garden.

    

  • Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark)

    The museum features a vast collection of Danish and international art, spanning over 700 years. The museum's collection spans over 700 years of art history.

  • Botanical Garden

    A serene garden with over 13,000 species of plants, part of the Natural History Museum of Denmark. The garden is part of the Natural History Museum of Denmark and features over 13,000 species of plants.

  • Nyhavn

    End your day with a dinner at one of the many restaurants along the canal. A historic waterfront district known for its colourful 17th and 18th-century buildings, cafes, and restaurants.

    

  • Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen (optional)

    If you still have time and the budget, try scenic boat tours through Copenhagen's canals. Take an evening canal tour to see the city lights and get a different perspective of Copenhagen.

    

     

• Day 2: Cultural Immersion and City Life

  • Christiansborg Palace

    We began our day at Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Prime Minister's Office. This historic site offers a deep dive into the political heart of Denmark. Christiansborg Palace is the only building in the world that houses all three branches of a country's government: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

    

  • Børsen (The Old Stock Exchange)

    A historic building known for its unique spire shaped like the tails of four dragons intertwined. Built in the early 17th century, Børsen is one of the oldest stock exchanges in the world.

  • The Black Diamond (Royal Danish Library)

    A modern extension of the Royal Danish Library, known for its striking black granite façade. The Black Diamond is an extension of the Royal Danish Library and is named for its black granite façade.

  • The National Museum

    Denmark's largest museum of cultural history, featuring exhibits from the Stone Age to the modern era. The museum houses the famous Egtved Girl, a well-preserved Bronze Age girl found in a barrow.

    Allocate at least a couple of hours to explore the extensive exhibits.

  • Strøget

    One of Europe's longest pedestrian streets, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Strøget is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, stretching 1.1 kilometres.

  • Gråbrødretorv

    A charming square with colourful buildings and outdoor cafes. It is an excellent spot for a coffee break. Gråbrødretorv is named after a Franciscan monastery that once stood on the site.

    

  • Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

    We then climbed the spiral ramp to the top for panoramic views of the city. A 17th-century tower with a unique spiral ramp leading to an observatory at the top. Built in the 17th century, the Round Tower is Europe's oldest functioning observatory.

  • Torvehallerne | Food Markets

    We sampled some smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and other Danish specialities in Torvehallerne, a popular food market with over 60 stalls offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local delicacies.

    

  • City Hall Square

    A central point for many of Copenhagen's cultural events and celebrations.

    

  • Tivoli Gardens

    We then spend our evening at Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks known for its beautiful gardens, thrilling rides, and vibrant entertainment. Tips: Try to check the fireworks schedule when you visit here.

    

     

• Day 3: Alternative and Modern Copenhagen

  • Freetown Christiania

    Curiosity killed the cat. Freetown Christiania is an alternative community in the heart of Copenhagen known for its unique lifestyle and vibrant art scene. Christiania was established in 1971 by a group of hippies who occupied abandoned military barracks and has since developed its own set of rules independent of the Danish government. Some areas do not allow photos.

    

  • Church of Our Saviour

    Famous for its corkscrew-shaped spire, and you can take a panoramic view of the city from here. The church's spire, with its golden globe at the top, is one of Copenhagen's most recognisable landmarks and offers a unique vantage point over the city.

  • Reffen

    Copenhagen's largest street food market. Reffen features over 50 food stalls offering a diverse range of cuisines from around the world.

Practical Tips

• Copenhagen is largely cashless, so there's no need to bring much cash or worry about exchanging money. Most places, including cafes, restaurants, and even street vendors, accept credit cards and mobile payments.

• The city is bike-friendly, and renting a bike is a great way to explore.

Enjoy your trip to Copenhagen!

Maps