A Copenhagen itinerary, three perfect days
Day 1: the classic core
Morning: stroll Strøget and the old town to the Round Tower. Midday: Nyhavn and a canal tour. Afternoon: Rosenborg Castle and the King's Garden. Evening: Tivoli at dusk, the best time to see it lit up.
Day 2: harbour, design and neighbourhoods
Morning: Christianshavn and the Church of Our Saviour spire. Midday: a harbour bath swim in summer or the Designmuseum otherwise. Afternoon: Nørrebro for street food and coffee. Evening: dinner in the Meatpacking District.
Day 3: a day trip
Pick one: Kronborg (Hamlet's castle) and the Louisiana art museum up the coast, or cross the bridge to Malmö in Sweden. All are under an hour by train, detailed in day trips from Copenhagen.
If you have more time
Days four and five let you slow down: more neighbourhoods, a food-hall lunch, the National Museum, or a bike day around the lakes. Full options in things to do in Copenhagen.
Common questions
Is 3 days enough for Copenhagen?
Yes, three days covers the core plus one day trip comfortably.
How do I get around on this itinerary?
Walk the centre, cycle or use the metro; a City Pass or Copenhagen Card covers transport.
What is the best day-trip from Copenhagen?
Kronborg Castle and the Louisiana museum up the coast, or Malmö in Sweden, all under an hour by train.