24 Hours in Copenhagen – Through the lens of a local
Copenhagen is best experienced not by rushing between must-see sights but by sliding into the rhythm of authentic local life. This 24-hour itinerary blends hidden gems with neighbourhood walks and cultural highlights. You’ll feel like a temporary Copenhagener.
Highlights
- Swim in the city harbour at Kalvebod Brygge
- Feel Copenhagen’s community life at Absalon
- Explore art and serenity at Glyptoteket
- Taste local and global flavours at Broens Gadekøkken & Bæst
- Experience Copenhagen on two wheels – the most authentic way to get around
- End the day like a local with wine at Pompette
Morning – Harbour swim & neighbourhood stroll
Harbour swim at Islands Brygge
Begin your day with a refreshing dip in the clean harbour baths of Kalvebod Brygge. Few capitals in the world let you start your day with a swim right in the city centre – but Copenhagen is one of them.
Coffee & pastries at Prolog Coffee
Head to Prolog Coffee in the Meat Packing District, known internationally for its coffee roasts. Grab a coffee of your choice and a high-end sourdough bun or pastry.
Neighbourhood stroll on Vesterbro
Explore Vesterbro, once gritty, now buzzing with galleries, craft beer bars, and small design shops. Pop by Absalon, the former church turned community house, to feel the city’s social spirit.
Midday – Culture & Design
Glyptoteket
Visit Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum that blends ancient sculptures with lush winter garden. It’s a serene escape from the city buzz.
Lunch at Broens Gadekøkken
Enjoy lunch at Broens Gadekøkken, a sustainable street food hub by the harbour, run by the team behind Reffen. Expect good variety, casual vibes, and city views.
Afternoon – Green city life
Bike around the city like a local
Copenhagen is best explored by bike. The infrastructure is second to none, with dedicated bike paths and bridges, and bike rental is easily accessible. Grab a bike and explore Nørrebro, Østerbro and Frederiksberg.
Botanical Pause at Landbohøjskolens Have
Continue to Landbohøjskolens Have, a hidden green oasis tucked inside Frederiksberg. Copenhageners use it for reading, strolling, yoga, or just a quiet pause.
Evening – Food & local encounters
Dinner at Bæst
Book a table at Bæst, a Nørrebro hotspot where organic charcuterie, sourdough pizza, and buzzing atmosphere capture Copenhagen’s culinary edge.
Organic wine at Pompette
Round off the evening at Pompette, a casual natural wine bar where locals gather over shared bottles.
FAQ
Is 24 hours enough to see Copenhagen?
Not really. There is so much to explore, but if you only have limited time, focus on experiences. This itinerary lets you feel the city’s rhythm rather than ticking off sights.
How should I get around?
By bike or on foot. Copenhagen is compact, safe, and built for cyclists. The Metro system is also a great way to get around.
What’s the best season for this itinerary?
All seasons. It’s common to take a dip in the harbour even in the colder winter months. Broens Gadekøkken are closed during the winter. Consider Torvehallerne as an alternative.
How does this fit Copenhagen’s sustainability goals?
It highlights low-impact transport (cycling, walking), green urban spaces, and locally sourced food, aligning with the city’s vision for responsible tourism.