My Perfect Itinerary for Three Days in Copenhagen
A Food, Fashion, and Travel Lover's Guide
Copenhagen, a city renowned for its vibrant colours, exquisite cuisine, and trendsetting fashion scene, effortlessly blends historic charm with modern aesthetics. It's no wonder that this Danish capital has become a must-visit destination for those in search of the best city breaks in Europe. From the photogenic harbours of Nyhavn to the fashionable streets echoing the spirit of Copenhagen Fashion Week, join me on a three-day journey through this enchanting European city break.
Day 1: Nyhavn, Rosenborg Castle, and Norrebro's Chic Streets
Our adventure began in the iconic Nyhavn, where colourful facades and historic ships set the stage for a quintessential Copenhagen snapshot. While tempting, we bypassed the tourist-heavy dining spots for a more local experience. A leisurely stroll took us to Buka Bakery, where the scent of freshly baked pastries was impossible to resist. With a delicious coffee and pastry in hand, we continued to Rosenborg Castle, taking a moment to admire the spring flowers blooming in the King's Garden.
The nearby streets of Fredericiagade and Sankt Pauls Gade offered a delightful exploration through mustard-yellow homes, trendy bookshops, and vintage clothes shops, encapsulating the essence of Copenhagen's fashion-forward mindset. Our wanderlust then led us to Amalienborg, the royal family's winter residence, where we were treated to a ceremonial parade of soldiers. Just a stone's throw away, Frederiks Church dazzled us with its painted ceiling, a testament to Danish architectural beauty.
Seeking a change of pace, we ventured into Norrebro, a neighbourhood known for its vibrant atmosphere and trendy boutiques. Jaegersborggade, in particular, stood out with its upmarket shops and an unexpectedly charming sight of babies napping in prams outside, showcasing the locals' trusting nature. Lunch at Stefanos Kaffe was a highlight, with the freedom to build our own fresh salads and sandwiches.
The day wouldn't be complete without experiencing Copenhagen's renowned fast-food marvel, Gasoline Grill, known for turning a former gas station into a burger haven that has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. We capped off the evening with sophisticated cocktails at Bronnum, near the Royal Danish Theatre, reflecting on a day well-spent.
Day 2: Vesterbro's Charm, Glyptoteket's Treasures, and Refshaleoen's Street Food
Vesterbro greeted us on our second day, a neighbourhood that's become a haven for fashion enthusiasts and foodies alike. Breakfast at Stempel Bar & Kitchen fueled our exploration of this area's unique boutiques and shops.
Our cultural appetite led us to Glyptoteket, an art museum that houses a mesmerising collection of Egyptian, Greek, and Mediterranean artefacts. The winter garden, with its fountains, sculptures, and natural light, was a tranquil oasis in the city's heart.
Though Tivoli Gardens was closed for the season, its proximity added a magical feel to our morning. Lunch at Restaurant 1733 offered a taste of Denmark with traditional open sandwiches, a culinary tradition not to be missed.
Our adventure continued at Reffen, an open-air street food market where the diverse culinary offerings and buzzing atmosphere provided a perfect evening backdrop. We got the water taxi over to Refshaleoen, a short walk to Reffen. The food market had every cuisine you could ever want - homemade Neopolitan pizzas, Argentinian steak, Greek gyros, American burgers, Nordic hotdogs, Mexican tacos and so much more. This is my top food recommendation if you are visiting Copenhagen, suggested to us by a local - it simply cannot be missed.
Day 3: Scandinavian Breakfast, Studio Arhoj, and The Round Tower's Views
Our final day commenced with a Scandinavian breakfast at Lille Petra, an experience that seamlessly blended simplicity with elegance. A visit to Studio Arhoj introduced us to the mesmerising world of Danish pottery, offering a unique blend of art and craftsmanship.
The Round Tower presented a literal high point of our journey, with its panoramic views of Copenhagen's spires and rooftops. A pop-up exhibition named ‘The Rose Cannon - The Kings Enchanted Garden’ halfway up added a cultural twist and art-filled break to our ascent.
Our quest for tranquillity led us to Orstedsparken, a peaceful retreat amidst the city buzz. Torvehallerne's smorgasbord was a culinary delight, showcasing the best of Danish cuisine. A final stop at Kastellet offered historical insights and a chance to encounter local wildlife, including a charming red squirrel.
Farewell, Copenhagen
Three days in Copenhagen revealed a city that captivates the heart with its blend of culinary delights, fashion-forward thinking, and rich cultural heritage. For food, travel, and fashion enthusiasts looking for the best weekend getaways in Europe, Copenhagen stands out as a jewel in the continent's crown.
As we bid farewell to this enchanting city, it's clear that Copenhagen isn't just a destination; it's a perfect blend of tradition and modernity into an experience that calls for a return. Until next time, Copenhagen!