Denmark was the first stop on our Scandinavian journey, and it did not disappoint. Copenhagen welcomed us with open arms (and plenty of bikes), offering a blend of historic charm, vibrant culture, and irresistible food. Plus, we timed our visit perfectly—at the end of September. This meant cooler but comfortable weather, fewer crowds (no school holidays!), and a relaxed vibe that made exploring even more enjoyable. Here’s how we spent three unforgettable days in this delightful city along with recommended travel essentials.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Copenhagen
We kicked things off by checking into The Square Hotel, a cozy and super-central spot just a 3-minute walk from the train station. Clean, comfortable, and ridiculously well-located, it became our perfect home base.
After settling in, we strolled over to Strøget, the city’s famed pedestrian street stretching from City Hall Square to Kong’s Nytorv. With its shops, street performers, and cafes, it was a great introduction to Copenhagen’s lively vibe.
For lunch, we hit up TorvehallerneKBH, a must-visit food market teeming with delicious options. We’re talking everything from Danish smørrebrød to fresh sushi. It’s foodie heaven!
Our afternoon was spent wandering around the colorful canal district of Nyhavn. Think postcard-perfect scenes with bright facades and historic ships. We capped the day with a relaxing canal tour—because when in Copenhagen, right?
Essential Gear:
- Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage: Durable and stylish, perfect for navigating Copenhagen’s cobblestone streets.
- Travel Neck Wallet: A discreet way to keep your valuables safe while exploring busy areas.
Day 2: Royalty, Bikes, and Tivoli Magic
Day two began with a royal spectacle at Amalienborg Palace where we watched the Changing of the Guard at noon. Tip: Check the flag on the palace to see if the royals are in residence!
Next, we embraced Copenhagen’s favorite mode of transport—e-bikes. Renting one was a breeze, and we were off to explore. First stop? The iconic Little Mermaid Statue, which, let’s be honest, is smaller than expected but worth it for the beautiful parkland around it. Nearby, we found the stunning Gefion Fountain and marveled at the fairytale-esque Frederiksborg Castle.
Our evening was reserved for pure magic at Tivoli Gardens. With its twinkling lights, whimsical rides, and nostalgic charm, it felt like stepping into a dream. Dinner was a return to TorvehallerneKBH because why mess with perfection?
Essential Gear:
- Silicone Phone Holder for Bikes: This flexible and durable holder keeps your phone secure on the handlebars, making navigation effortless while riding through Copenhagen.
- Collapsible Water Bottle: Lightweight and space-saving for all-day hydration.
Day 3: A Bonus Swedish Adventure
Our final day started spontaneously, as all the best adventures do. We hopped on a train to Kronborg Castle, famously known as Hamlet’s Castle. Its location by the sea and rich history made it a highlight of the trip. Tip – purchase a copenhagen travel pass to visit multiple attraction’s which is better value than singular ticket purchases and to save time.
From there, we took the ferry across the Øresund Strait to Helsingborg, Sweden. After exploring this charming coastal town (recommended time: 3 hours), we ventured to by train to Malmö (recommended time: 3 hours) for some shopping and sightseeing. The blend of modern architecture and old-world charm was captivating. Tip – the train fare includes free limited stops along the departure and arrival route so we hopped off to explore some towns along the way. Just ensure to check your ticket for times as the stop overs are limited by time.
A bus ride brought us back to Copenhagen, where we toasted to an amazing trip with one last Danish pastry and delicious bagels!
Essential Gear:
- Daypack Backpack: Ideal for a day of sightseeing and shopping.
- Universal Travel Adapter: Keeps your devices charged no matter where you are.
Why September is the Perfect Time to Visit Denmark
Traveling at the end of September was one of our best decisions. The weather was ideal—not too hot, not too cold—making long walks and bike rides comfortable. Plus, with school holidays over, the city felt more relaxed, and we didn’t have to battle crowds at popular attractions. This time of year perfectly captures Copenhagen’s cozy, laid-back charm.
Why Denmark Stole Our Hearts
Copenhagen is a city that’s as charming as it is easy to navigate. Between the historic castles, vibrant food scene, and bike-friendly streets, we couldn’t have asked for a better start to our Scandinavian adventure. And with its seamless connections to Sweden, we even squeezed in a surprise two-country day trip!
So, if you’re planning your own Scandinavian escapade, consider starting in Copenhagen. It’s a gateway to history, culture, and, yes, the best smørrebrød you’ll ever taste. From Denmark it was then onto Norway – check out the below blog post for suggested itinerary.
How many days would you suggest in Copenhagen as a first timer?
We found 3 days to be sufficient to explore key attractions
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