Copenhagen stopover – What to do in 6-12 Hours
If you only have a short stopover in Copenhagen, you can still get a taste of the city’s essence. With its compact size, green spaces, and walkable streets, the Danish capital lets you take in a lot, in a short while. This itinerary highlights culture, design, food, and local life.
Arrival Tips
- Transport: From Copenhagen Airport, take the metro or regional train to the city centre in under 15 minutes.
- Get Around: Rent a bike, hop on a harbour bus, or walk – everything is close by.
- Mind Your Time: Pick 2–3 clusters depending on how many hours you have.
- Read more about the public transportation in Copenhagen here.
If You Have 6 Hours
City Centre Icons
- Nyhavn – colourful harbour houses, canal tours, and Hans Christian Andersen history.
- The Royal Danish Playhouse – striking modern architecture by the water.
- Strøget – 1.2 km shopping street with everything from high-end brands to local boutiques.
Local Bite: Try classic Danish smørre-brød (open-faced sandwiches) at Restaurant Schønnemann.
If You Have 9 Hours
Culture and Gardens
- SMK – National Gallery of Denmark – from Golden Age paintings to contemporary art.
- Rosenborg Castle & The King’s Garden – royal treasures and a stroll in Copenhagen’s favourite park.
- Torvehallerne Market – gourmet stalls for quick bites, from coffee to Danish open sandwiches.
Tip: Walk from place to place – everything is within a 10-minute walking distance.
If You Have 12 Hours
Harbour Life & Local Neighbourhoods
- Reffen Street Food – creative street food and harbour views.
- CopenHill – ski down a power plant rooftop or just enjoy the view.
- Christianshavn – cobbled canals, Our Saviour’s Church, and buzzing cafés.
Evening Option: If time allows, sip natural wine at Josephine on Amager before heading back to the airport from Amagerbro Metro station – the M1 metro goes directly to the airport.
Highlights
- See Copenhagen’s colourful harbour and royal history in just a few hours.
- Experience art, gardens, and Nordic design clustered around the city centre.
- Taste Copenhagen’s world-famous gastronomy at markets, smørrebrød restaurants, and street food halls.
- Blend in with locals – cycle, stroll the harbour, or pause for coffee in neighbourhood cafés.
FAQ
How long does it take to get from the airport to the city centre?
Around 15 minutes by metro or train.
What if I only have 3–4 hours?
Stay around Nyhavn, Strøget, and Rosenborg Castle for a compact snapshot.
Is it worth leaving the airport for a short stopover?
Yes – Copenhagen’s scale and transport links make it easy to explore even in 6 hours.
Where can I store luggage?
Both Copenhagen Airport and the Central Station have lockers.
What’s the best way to see the city quickly?
Take a bike or a canal tour for a fast overview of major sights.