Day Trip to Copenhagen, Denmark

I had no plans to go Denmark during my trip to Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, but I made a last-minute decision to visit. After all, my goal is to hit every country on Earth and I was close enough. I took the earliest train (SJ train) from Stockholm and departed at 6:16 AM for the 5.5. To make the most of my day trip, I took a bus (Flixbus) back to Stockholm at 10:15 PM, which took about 9 hours.

Is a day enough in Copenhagen?

That depends on what type of traveler you are. Some people like to see everything a city has to offer, while others prefer to hit the main points. Ideally, if you’re just sticking to Copenhagen, a few days would be ideal but you can definitely squeeze a lot in a day.

What to see in Copenhagen

You can comfortably see all of the places below in a day.

1) Nyhavn

This is a picturesque waterfront district known for its colorful 17th-century buildings, bustling atmosphere, and historic wooden ships. It’s a great spot for dining and enjoying the views of the harbor. This is the most iconic place in all of Denmark and definitely the most scenic.

2) Amalienborg Palace

The winter residence of the Danish royal family, composed of four identical palaces around a central square. You can witness the changing of the guard ceremony here.

3) Have a Danish Pastry

Danish pastries are popular for their flaky, buttery layers and delicious, diverse fillings. Their combination of rich flavors and appealing texture makes them a cherished treat enjoyed by many. You can’t come all the way to Denmark and not have a pastry.

4) The Little Mermaid Statue

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, this iconic statue is one of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks. It’s located at Langelinie Pier and is a popular photo spot.

5) Rosenborg Castle

A Renaissance castle built in the early 17th century, known for its beautiful architecture, royal collections, and the Danish Crown Jewels. The surrounding King’s Garden (Kongens Have) is also worth a stroll.

6) Copenhagen Canal Tour

The Copenhagen canal tour offers a scenic and relaxing way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the water. You’ll glide past picturesque architecture, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods, gaining a unique perspective on Copenhagen’s charm and beauty.

That should give you a good feel for Copenhagen. Obviously, there’s more to see and do, but if your main objective is to visit the key highlights, then this itinerary will be sufficient. Have you ever been to Denmark? If so, what did you think?