Copenhagen on a Budget: The Ultimate 5-Day Guide

Experience Danish Charm Without Breaking the Bank in Copenhagen.

21 June 2023

Copenhagen, Denmark's capital, is a charming and rich cultural destination,with its beautiful architecture, dynamic street life, and unique food culture. Although some of its attractions can be expensive, there are still plenty of budget-friendly things to see and do, such as visiting its iconic Nyhavn waterfront, exploring the bustling street markets of Nørrebro, and renting a bike to explore the city at your own pace. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals, Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable trip on a limited budget.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Copenhagen's Canal Secrets

  • Stay at the Wakeup Copenhagen Carsten Niebuhrs Gade hotel, located near the central train station
  • Take a canal tour, admiring the colorful houses and secret gardens along the way
  • Visit the National Museum of Denmark, with free admission and a fascinating exhibit on Viking culture
  • Grab lunch at Cafe Norden, famous for their open-faced sandwiches
  • Stroll through Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park and cultural center that inspired Walt Disney
Day 2

Hans Christian Andersen's Legacy

  • Walk to the Andersen Boutique Hotel, located in the trendy Vesterbro neighborhood
  • Visit the HC Andersen museum, showcasing the famous author's life and works
  • Wander through the historic Nyhavn harbor, where Andersen lived and wrote many of his stories
  • Try authentic Danish pastries at Lagkagehuset, a beloved bakery chain
  • Enjoy dinner at Retour Steak, serving locally-sourced meat and seafood dishes
Day 3

Royal Copenhagen Experience

  • Make your way to the Absalon Hotel, situated in the lively Vesterbro area
  • Tour the opulent Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish government and royal family
  • Explore the picturesque Rosenborg Castle and its extensive art collection
  • Visit Frederik's Church, also known as the Marble Church, with its striking dome
  • Indulge in some Danish hygge (coziness) at the La Glace bakery, serving melt-in-your-mouth cakes
Day 4

Eclectic Nørrebro

  • Stay at the Hotel Nora Copenhagen, located in the hip Nørrebro district
  • Take a street art tour, discovering the colorful murals and graffiti of the area
  • Visit the Assistens Cemetery, the final resting place of Hans Christian Andersen and other notable Danes
  • Browse the vintage and independent shops of Jægersborggade
  • Have a vegetarian meal at Manfreds, a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on fermented foods
Day 5

Freetown Christiania

  • Stay at the Urban House hotel, offering affordable shared accommodations in the trendy Vesterbro area
  • Explore the unique Freetown Christiania, an anarchist community with its own laws and culture
  • Visit the charming Church of Our Saviour, with its distinctive spire offering panoramic city views
  • Have lunch at Torvehallerne, a lively food market showcasing Nordic cuisine
  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the waterfront, enjoying the fresh sea air and Copenhagen's scenic beauty.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Copenhagen, Denmark by plane is to fly into Copenhagen Airport (CPH). There are direct flights from major cities all around the world including New York, London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Car

The best way to get to Copenhagen by car is to drive across the bridge from Sweden. The Øresund Bridge connects Malmö in Sweden to Copenhagen in Denmark. The journey takes around 40 minutes and the toll is approximately 43 EUR.

Train

There are no direct train services to Copenhagen from other European cities, but you can take the train to Hamburg or Berlin and then catch a connecting train to Copenhagen. The train station in Copenhagen is called 'København H'.

Boat

While there are no direct ferry services to Copenhagen, you can take a ferry from Germany to the nearby city of Gedser and then continue the journey to Copenhagen by train or bus.

Bus

If you're traveling from other parts of Europe, Flixbus is a popular and affordable option. The bus station in Copenhagen is called 'Ingerslevsgade'.

Destination

Copenhagen

Nestled comfortably between mainland Europe and the mystical lands of Scandinavia, lies a city that can only be described as a hygge-filled wonderland of bicycles and pastries. Welcome to the land of Lego and endless smørrebrød – Copenhagen.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Romantic Long Weekend in Copenhagen

Copenhagen offers a romantic getaway for couples with its stunning architecture, serene outdoor spaces, and cozy cafes. Take a stroll through the colorful Nyhavn harbor, relax in Tivoli Gardens, and savor delicious Danish cuisine while enjoying the city's charm. Visit the famous Little Mermaid statue and explore the picturesque streets of the city, creating unforgettable memories with your significant other.

Charming Copenhagen on a Budget: 2 Day Itinerary

Copenhagen is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of affordable activities for visitors on a limited budget. Some must-see attractions include the colorful Nyhavn district, the free National Museum, and the historic Tivoli Gardens amusement park. For budget-friendly dining options, the city is home to plenty of street food vendors and small cafes serving traditional Danish dishes.

Copen-romance: A 3-day escape to Copenhagen

Experience the charm of Copenhagen, one of Europe's most romantic cities, on a couples' getaway. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history while exploring the colorful Nyhavn Harbor and the fairytale-like Rosenborg Castle. Indulge in culinary delights at Michelin-starred restaurants and cozy cafes or rent a boat and take a romantic ride along the canals.

3 Days of Fun and Food in Copenhagen

As a tourist in Copenhagen, you can expect to wander along the beautiful canals, explore the historic castles, and indulge in the delicious Danish cuisine. The city is known for its strong cycling culture, so renting a bike is a must to explore at your own pace. Don't miss out on visiting Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, for a fun-filled day.