Things to do in Copenhague: local guide

The story

Understanding Copenhague

fishing port that became Denmark’s capital in the 15th century, Copenhagen was rebuilt several times after fires and bombardments. In the 17th century King Christian IV left the Stock Exchange, the Round Tower and the district of Christianshavn; the Nyhavn canal dates from the same era.

Today the city is a model of quality of life: people swim in the harbour, get around by bike, and New Nordic cuisine found its showcase here. To live it like a local, rent a bike, switch neighbourhoods every half-day and make time for “hygge”, that simple shared comfort.

Find your bearings

A neighbourhood for every mood

Indre By

For a first stay on foot: Nyhavn, Strøget, the palaces and museums. The priciest and busiest area; the streets around the Round Tower are nicer in the evening.

Vesterbro

For restaurants, the Kødbyen meatpacking district and proximity to Central Station. Lively at night; some streets near the station are rougher.

Nørrebro

For a young, cosmopolitan feel: Jægersborggade cafés, Superkilen park, Assistens Cemetery. More affordable, ideal by bike.

Christianshavn

For the canals, the Church of Our Saviour and calm, one metro stop from the centre. Fewer hotels, often apartments.

Explore the neighbourhood guides

A first visit

Two days to get a feel for the city

A starting point to adapt to the weather, your energy and opening hours.

Day 1 · Canals & palaces
Morning at Nyhavn before the crowds, then Amalienborg and the Marble Church. Smørrebrød for lunch. Afternoon at Rosenborg Castle or the Glyptotek. In the evening, Tivoli or dinner in Vesterbro.
Day 2 · By bike
Rent a bike: Christianshavn and the spire of the Church of Our Saviour, then the harbour and a swim at Islands Brygge in summer. Afternoon in Nørrebro, between Superkilen and the Jægersborggade cafés.

Plan my stay with UGO

Conditions vary by street, time and situation. Use these pointers to plan your journeys.

Bike lanes

Bike lanes are very busy: never walk on them, and look before crossing. When cycling, signal before turning, raise your hand before stopping and use lights at night.

Christiania

In the free town, follow the posted rules: no photos in marked areas, no running. Cannabis is illegal in Denmark, and residents themselves dug up Pusher Street in 2024.

Christiania

Bike & bag theft

The city is very safe, but bike theft and pickpocketing happen around Central Station and Strøget. Lock your bike at every stop.

Gouvernement du Canada — Danemark

Back to Copenhague

Copenhague

Understanding Copenhague

A neighbourhood for every mood

Indre By

Vesterbro

Nørrebro

Christianshavn

Two days to get a feel for the city

Day 1 · Canals & palaces

Day 2 · By bike

Good to know

Language

Currency & tipping

Getting around

Safety

Bike lanes

Christiania

Bike & bag theft

Airport

Seasons

Alcohol

Emergencies

Booking