48 Hours in Copenhagen – A weekend of culture and cuisine
In Copenhagen, world-class culture meets a vibrant food scene. In just one weekend, you can explore royal castles, modern architecture, lively neighbourhoods, and taste everything from smørrebrød to Michelin dining. This 48-hour itinerary lets you live like a local.
Highlights
- Culture & Art: SMK, Designmuseum Danmark, Royal Danish Theatre.
- Outdoor City Life: Nyhavn, Islands Brygge Harbour Bath, cycling in Nørrebro.
- Architecture & Design: Historic castles beside modern icons.
- Gastronomy: From smørrebrød to Michelin dining and vibrant street food.
Day 1 – Friday Evening: Arrival and First Taste
Check-in and Explore
- Settle into your hotel and start your journey on foot or by bike. Copenhagen is compact, safe, and easy to navigate, making it the perfect city for experiencing a lot in a short amount of time.
Dinner in the Meatpacking District
- Head to Kødbyen (The Meatpacking District), Copenhagen’s buzzing nightlife and dining hub. Choose between contemporary restaurants serving organic, locally sourced menus, or casual eateries perfect for a lively first night.
Nightcap
- Enjoy cocktails at Lidkoeb, a stylish bar tucked away in a historic building.
Day 2 – Saturday: Art, History and Gastronomy
Morning
- Start with a walk through Nyhavn, the colourful harbour lined with historic houses.
- Visit Amalienborg Palace and watch the Royal Guard’s changing of the guard.
- Continue to SMK – National Gallery of Denmark for a dive into Danish Golden Age art and international masters.
Afternoon
- Try traditional smørrebrød – open-faced sandwiches topped with herring, shrimp, or seasonal vegetables – at a local restaurant like Aamanns 1921 or Schønnemann.
- Cycle or walk to Nørrebro and stroll down Jægersborggade, filled with design shops, bakeries, cafes, and much more.
Evening
- End your day with an authentic taste of Copenhagen’s gastronomic scene at Barr or Bæst, both rooted in organic dining.
- Catch a performance at the Royal Danish Theatre or listen to live music at Jazzhus Montmartre.
Day 3 – Sunday: Harbour Life and Hidden Gems
Morning
- Take a dip like the locals at Islands Brygge Harbour Bath or enjoy a scenic canal tour starting from Nyhavn.
- Head to the hidden gem Lille Petra for breakfast, where you can get delicious coffee, croissants, eggs, and more.
Late morning
- Visit Designmuseum Danmark to explore Denmark’s design legacy, from Arne Jacobsen chairs to contemporary innovation.
Lunch and farewell
- Conclude your weekend with street food at Broens Gadekøkken located by the waterfront.
FAQ
Is 48 hours enough to see Copenhagen?
Yes – the city is compact, and you can cover major highlights and neighbourhood vibes in a weekend.
How do I get around?
By bike, metro, or simply walking. Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.
What should I eat?
Don’t miss smørrebrød, Danish pastries, and New Nordic cuisine. Pair with local craft beer or natural wine.
When is the best time to visit?
Copenhagen is a year-round city: enjoy long summer nights by the harbour or cosy “hygge” vibes in winter cafés.