72 Hours in Copenhagen – Design, food, and hidden neighbourhoods
This 3-day itinerary invites you to explore the Danish capital's world-famous design, vibrant food scene, and hidden neighbourhoods, where you can live like a temporary local. Discover how Copenhagen blends old and new – always with an eye for everyday livability.
Highlights
- Danish design heritage at Designmuseum Denmark and contemporary architecture at CopenHill.
- Neighbourhood living in Nørrebro and Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District.
- Michelin dining at Geranium and Alchemist, alongside casual local gems like Gaarden & Gaden and Pompette.
- Outdoor living: Experience the city like the Copenhageners do on foot or by bike.
Day 1 – Design Icons and Harbour Living
Morning
- Start with a coffee at Lille Petra, a courtyard café hidden behind design showroom &Tradition.
- Explore Designmuseum Denmark, where Danish furniture classics by Arne Jacobsen and Finn Juhl meet contemporary design.
Afternoon
- Walk through Kastellet, the star-shaped fortress, on your way to the Little Mermaid – still iconic, still unpretentious.
- Head to Broens Street Food and enjoy lunch in an atmospheric setting with a water view.
Evening
- Stroll around Nyhavn – the old bustling port with the beautiful colored houses connected to the famous writer Hans Christian Andersen. Here, you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink or an afternoon coffee before dinner.
- Dinner at Restaurant Barr, housed in Noma’s former space, celebrates Nordic beer and bread traditions.
Day 2 – Hidden Neighbourhoods and Nordic Cuisine
Morning
- Rent a bike and cycle to Jægersborggade in Nørrebro, filled with ceramics studios and vintage shops.
- Stroll through Assistens Cemetery, a green breathing space where Hans Christian Andersen rests.
- Exit the cemetery onto Nørrebrogade, and you’ll find Gaarden & Gaden right across the street – perfect for a delicious brunch.
Afternoon
- Explore the multicultural buzz of Nørrebro, recently awarded “world’s coolest neighbourhood.”. We recommend trying the free, self-guided audio walk created by the app StoryHunt. Click here to start your tour.
Evening
- Drinks at Pompette, a natural wine bar with a casual neighbourhood vibe.
- Splurge on a world-class tasting menu at the Michelin restaurants Geranium or Alchemist – both redefining what gastronomy can be. Be sure to reserve a table ahead of time.
Tip: If a table at Geranium or Alchemist is difficult to get or beyond your budget, check out our guide to Copenhagen’s Bib Gourmand restaurants here.
Day 3 – Contemporary Culture and Green Spaces
Morning
- Head to CopenHill, the waste-to-energy plant topped with a ski slope, hiking trail, and rooftop café.
- Rent a bike and cycle to SMK – The National Gallery of Denmark for Danish Golden Age art and bold contemporary works.
Afternoon
- Have a smørrebrød lunch at Aamanns 1921, a modern take on open sandwiches.
- Stroll to Christiansborg Palace and experience royal Danish history. You can buy an admission ticket to the visitor areas or join a guided tour to learn more about the palace’s rich history. Be sure to check out the Christiansborg Palace website for opening hours, ticket options, and tour times.
Evening
- Explore the nightlife in Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District, packed with bars, galleries, and creative energy.
- End your trip with dinner at Kødbyens Fiskebar, focusing on fresh, sustainable seafood.
FAQ
Is Copenhagen easy to get around?
Yes. The city is compact and bike-friendly, with metro lines connecting the centre to neighbourhoods and the airport in under 15 minutes.
Can I swim in the harbour?
Absolutely. Copenhagen’s harbour is clean enough to swim in – check out Islands Brygge or Kalvebod Bølge for the best spots.
Do I need to book restaurants in advance?
For Michelin stars, book months ahead. For casual neighbourhood places, a few days’ notice is usually enough.
What’s the best way to explore hidden neighbourhoods?
Rent a bike or join a walking tour. Streets like Jægersborggade (Nørrebro) and Værnedamsvej (Vesterbro/Frederiksberg) are packed with local character.
When’s the best time to visit?
Copenhagen is year-round: summer for outdoor living and harbour swims, winter for cosy cafés and Christmas markets.