Copenhagen is not just Denmark’s biggest city—it is a world capital of culture, gastronomy, and historic charm. From royal palaces to hidden harbor spots, the Danish capital has an energy that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you are visiting for the food, the sights, or the famous Danish “hygge”, here is my personal insider guide to Copenhagen!

1. The Landmarks You Can’t Miss

Copenhagen is packed with iconic sights, but the best way to see them is like a local—on a bike or from the water.

• Nyhavn: The famous 17th-century waterfront with colorful houses and old wooden ships. Insider Tip: Don’t buy food or drinks at the restaurants directly on the pier; they are tourist traps. Do what the locals do: buy a cold drink from a nearby kiosk and sit on the quay to enjoy the view.
• The Royal Palaces: Visit Amalienborg Palace to see the changing of the guard at 12:00 PM every day. If the Queen or King is home, you will see the royal guards marching with their iconic bearskin hats.

2. Copenhagen Fun Facts (To Impress Your Friends!)

• The King of Fairytales: The famous writer Hans Christian Andersen actually lived in three different houses in Nyhavn (numbers 18, 20, and 67) during his life.
• A Royal Trampoline: In the middle of the city sidewalk at Havnepromenaden, you can find built-in trampolines where both kids and adults stop to jump for fun.
• Super Safe Babies: You will notice rows of baby strollers parked outside cafes with sleeping babies inside while parents enjoy their coffee. Copenhagen is built on an incredible level of social trust!

3. The Food Scene: Smørrebrød & Street Food

Copenhagen is a culinary powerhouse. You don’t need a Michelin star to eat like royalty here.

• Torvehallerne Food Market: Located near Nørreport station, these glass market halls are a foodie paradise. Head to Hallernes Smørrebrød for the ultimate traditional Danish open-faced sandwich. Try the one with crispy plaice filet (fiskefilet) or roast beef!
• Reffen Street Food: If you are visiting during the warmer months, take the harbor bus out to Reffen. It’s a massive outdoor creative hub filled with food stalls from all over the world, located right by the water with a view of the city skyline.

4. Practical Tips for a Perfect Trip

• Don’t Rent a Car: Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. Traffic is designed for bikes, and the public transit system (Metro, trains, and buses) runs 24/7. Get a City Pass for unlimited travel.
• Free Views: Skip the expensive viewpoint towers. You can get a breathtaking, panoramic view of the entire city for free by taking the elevator up to the tower at Christiansborg Palace (Tårnet).