Honest Copenhagen Solo Travel Guide + Map

Are you contemplating Copenhagen solo travel? I will tell you immediately that it’s one of the best cities I’ve ever been to alone!

I’d even go as far as to say it’s one of my all-time favorite cities in Europe! There are so many reasons you will love this city, I can’t wait to tell you about it!

Having visited five times over the past few years I have self-proclaimed myself an expert on traveling to Copenhagen!

What you can expect in this post is an honest overview of the city, the best tips on what to do, and where to stay, and an epic guide on where to eat!

If this is your first solo trip to Copenhagen, let this guide be your roadmap to explore this female-friendly destination!

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If You Are Hesitant to Travel Solo To Copenhagen…

Are you feeling anxious or jittery about going to a foreign country alone? If so, I get it.

There were so many emotions for me when I first started traveling alone.

Will it be safe? Won’t I be bored? Isn’t traveling solo lonely?

Truthfully, yes, you will likely have moments of feeling sad or stressed, but take it one step at a time.

Copenhagen is a very safe city, safer than the city I live in. Knowing I was going someplace so safe helped ease my mind a lot.

Just remember to take things one day at a time, and I promise you that you will come out the other side stronger and more confident!

Where is Copenhagen & How Many Days Do I Need?

Situated on the islands of Zealand and Amager on the country’s eastern edge, Copenhagen is just a short bridge away from Malmo in Sweden. It’s one of the most visited Scandinavian travel destinations, especially for solo travelers.

When planning your trip to Copenhagen, I recommend a 3 day itinerary to fully experience all this city has to offer.

Is Copenhagen Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

As far as cities go, Copenhagen is one of the safest and best solo travel destinations for women.

Specifically speaking, the city has a very low crime rate, and digital security is a priority in the city.

It is a walkable city safe to explore alone, even at night. Solo traveling in Copenhagen is so enjoyable for that very reason.

It’s also no surprise Denmark is named a country with one of the best quality of life.

While Copenhagen is considered one of the safest cities for solo female travelers, it’s still important to stay alert and vigilant at all times.

Although less common, pickpocketing does happen in Copenhagen, especially in more touristy areas. 

Pay attention when moving through crowds, avoid strangers offering you drinks, and stay out of dangerous situations.

Also, be aware of bikes as you walk around and drive in Copenhagen!

Biking is a primary form of transportation for most locals, and you don’t want to get in their way.

How To Get To & Around Copenhagen

Arriving in Copenhagen: Easy Airport Transit for Solo Female Travelers

Copenhagen offers a straightforward and efficient journey from the airport to the city center. As a first-timer in Denmark’s capital, you’ll find the public transport system a breeze to navigate, ensuring a stress-free start to your adventure.

Upon landing at Copenhagen Airport, head to Terminal 3 for your transit options. For a quick 15-minute ride to the heart of the city, take the train from the right-hand side of the terminal, descending the escalator to reach the main train directly to Central Station.

Alternatively, the Metro, accessible by going up the escalator and straight ahead, whisks you to Kongens Nytorv in about 25 minutes, connecting you to the extensive M3 metro line and the city’s key attractions.

With these simple transport choices, Copenhagen’s charms, including a tour of Royal Copenhagen, are at your fingertips from day one.

This city is designed for ease and efficiency, allowing you more time to immerse yourself in its unique culture and less time worrying about getting around.

Solo Trip To Copenhagen Budgeting Tips

There is something to consider when visiting Copenhagen solo, and that’s your budget.

It is no secret that Copenhagen is one of the most expensive cities to visit in Europe.

I found that accommodations and food were the driving factors to pull on my purse strings the most.

Here are some tips to help keep your costs low:

1. Look for highly rated hotels and hostels in neighborhoods like Nørrebro & Vesterbro.
2. Get a combo pass that includes transit and access to the main attractions of the city.
3. Opt for street food vendors instead of sit-down restaurants. Trust me, the street food is just as good as any formal restaurant. I share all my tips for where to eat below!

Things to Do in Copenhagen Alone

Wondering what to do alone in Copenhagen? There are seriously so many ways to keep busy, I promise you’ll never be bored.

🤑 SAVE Money in Copenhagen on 80 + attractions & access to FREE public transport with the Copenhagen Card!

Wander around Tivoli Gardens.

Tivoli Gardens is the third-oldest amusement park that still operates today. It is home to one of the oldest wooden roller coasters and is even said to have inspired the creation of Disneyland.

This is one of the most famous sites in Copenhagen, so it’s worth a visit to bring out the kid in you! Even if you don’t frequent theme parks, there is something special to see here at Tivoli!

Pay tribute to the Little Mermaid Statue.

When you visit Copenhagen, you must visit the Little Mermaid statue, an icon of Copenhagen. Crafted by artist Edvard Eriksen, the statue is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid story. Andersen lived in Copenhagen for most of his life.

Today, the bronze statue stands atop a rock in the water by Langelinie Pier. Many boat tours will take you past the statue which lets you catch a glimpse from a far.

I joined the hop-on hop-off bus tour in Copenhagen and got off at the stop for the Little Mermaid (#5) on the Green Buses (red line).

View the iconic colorful houses along Nyhavn.

A row of colorful houses alongside a canal is the postcard-perfect image of Copenhagen. While stunning architecture can be viewed all over the city, the number one destination is Nyhavn. 

This harbor houses a collection of 18th and 19th-century townhouses. You can now find several tasty restaurants and cafes in the area, perfect for a quick bite.

Visit Christiansborg Palace.

Christiansborg Palace is now the seat of the Danish Parliament, but it has 800 years of royal history in its halls. Although still in use, you can tour many of the areas of the palace. There are even ruins underneath the palace you can explore!

Join a Bike Tour.

Copenhagen is one of the most cyclist-friendly places in the world. On my first trip to Copenhagen solo, I joined a bike tour.

Biking is incredibly commonplace as a mode of transportation for locals. While visiting, you may want to give it a try! Many hostels, hotels, and vendors offer bike rentals.

While biking may be a change of pace for you, remember that this is everyday life for most Copenhagen citizens. Follow the cycling rules and pay attention to the road!

❤︎ 1.5 Hour Bike Tour of Copenhagen – Check Rates & Availability

Smell the roses in the Botanical Garden.

You don’t have to have a green thumb to appreciate Copenhagen’s beautiful Botanical Garden. This free public green space is home to 10 hectares of gardens, including a butterfly house and a tropical palm collection.

The historic glass houses date back to the 1870s and make for a magical afternoon of exploration. 

Embrace your free-spirited side at Christiania.

Copenhagen’s “hippiest” area is the intentional community and commune of Christiania. Originally abandoned military barracks, the area turned into a commune that lived much by its own rules.

It was once known for its open trade of marijuana and the so-called “Green Light District.” However, most of that activity has subsided due to conflicts over drug use.

Cannabis aside, Christiania is still one of the most visited tourist locations in Copenhagen. There are live music venues, cafes, and restaurants. Cars aren’t allowed within the area of Christiania, so enjoy a stroll through this free-spirited community!

Explore Rosenborg Castle.

This famous castle in the center of Copenhagen is home to the Danish crown jewels. Rosenborg Castle was originally built as a country summer home for the royal family. The castle was built in the Dutch Renaissance style in the 17th century.

Today, you can tour the castle and grounds. Step into the shoes of royalty and walk around the wonderfully preserved royal rooms. Throughout the castle, there are also beautiful displays of art.

❤︎ Day Trip– Guided tour of Roskilde Cathedral, Frederiksborg Palace, and Kronborg Castle- Get Tickets

Immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of Denmark.

Copenhagen has many extraordinary museums, including the National Museum of Denmark. Here you can travel back in time and learn about the entire course of Danish history.

From old runic stones to the present day, you can immerse yourself in Denmark’s history during an hour-long self-guided tour.

Tour the Copenhagen canals by boat.

Give your feet a break and explore Copenhagen by water! There are many options for boat tours through the canals of Copenhagen.

Stop by famous and picturesque sights, or take in the beautiful quotidian life in Copenhagen.

❤︎ Hidden Gems Canal Tour– Likely to Sell Out. Check Rates & Availability HERE

Take a ride on Copenhagen’s City Train.

Winding through the streets of downtown Copenhagen is an old-fashioned, slow-moving train. A tour on Copenhagen’s City Train is more observational than educational, but it’s a fun and relaxing way to see more of the city.

❤︎ Ride that rail for FREE with the Copenhagen Card

Tour the Carlsberg Brewery.

Did you know that Copenhagen is home to Carlsberg? This world-famous Carlsberg beer first began in the 19th century, when J.C. Jacobsen named his new brewery after his son Carl and the Danish word for hill – “bjerg.”

The Carlsberg Visitor Center has been closed for renovations for several years but will reopen soon for tours of the historic brewery. If you like beer, be sure to grab a Carlsberg while in Copenhagen!

❤︎ PUB CRAWL: See the best Copenhagen offers with this pub crawl.

Climb the Church of Our Savior.

Church of Our Savior is a famous church in Copenhagen. The baroque-style church is probably best known for its spiral staircase around the central tower. Climbing a church tower may not be unique, but in this case, the staircase winds around the outside of the tower, offering stunning views of Copenhagen wherever you look!

Shop on Strøget

Strøget is a long pedestrian street that’s home to the most famous shopping area in Copenhagen. From designer brands to budget chain stores, the street has it all!

It’s perfect for window shopping or just taking a stroll in Copenhagen.

Browse the stalls at Reffen Street Food.

You can look out over the Copenhagen harbor as you enjoy some tasty treats from any of the numerous food stalls at Reffen. I can highly recommend trying the falafel and pairing it with a local beer, like Mikkeller!

This urban and cultural area champions sustainability in all its efforts and has food of every kind!

Get a panoramic view of Copenhagen from the Round Tower.

The Round Tower is exactly as it sounds – a round tower in the middle of Copenhagen. Originally built in the early 17th century, you can now walk up the tower for sweeping views of the city.

I enjoyed the fairly easy climb of the wide spiral path for the best views of Copenhagen.

Visit Kronborg Castle.

Kronborg Castle is located 1 hour north of Copenhagen by train. Although not technically in Copenhagen, this castle is worth the visit. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this castle was fictionalized as Elsinore in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

There are three different tours of different lengths you can take to choose your own adventure!

❤︎ Kronborg Castle Guided Tour Info here

Watch the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace.

Amalienborg Palace is home to the Danish Royal Family today. A visit here offers tourists a chance to see what royal life is like both in the present era and the past.

What the palace is most famous for, however, is the Royal Life Guard. At noon every day, you can watch the changing of the guard here.

Grab a snack at Torvehallerne.

Every time I go to Copenhagen, I go to Torvehallerne. It’s my go-to spot for a quick bit with plenty of options, and they also have wine tasting.

As one of Copenhagen’s most popular marketplaces, you can expect a vibrant, bustling food market with over 80 shops.

You’ll also find local produce and other stores selling things like tea, coffee, and chocolate!

❤︎ Copenhagen Travel Guide– Culinary Experience Tour

Admire the art at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek.

Among Copenhagen’s many museums is the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. This museum is one of many art museums in the city. It represents the private collections of Carl Jacobsen, the son of the founder of Carlsberg Breweries. Ancient and modern art combine in this museum for a rewarding experience.

Top Restaurants in Copenhagen

Warpigs – $$

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Warpigs is a brewpub and barbecue joint in the heart of Copenhagen. It’s one of my favorite restaurants in the city! Located in the Meatpacking District, the restaurant has warm and charming wooden picnic tables and a lovely patio.

Mother – $$$

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Mother is a simple yet delicious pizza place in Copenhagen. Known for their sourdough pizzas, Mother serves seasonal, organic pizza creations that are finger-licking good!

Bistro Lupa – $$$

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One of the best vegan restaurants in Copenhagen. Bistro Lupa is a zero-waste restaurant that focuses on sustainability. The menu will frequently change based on the season. Even if you are not following a vegan diet, you will enjoy this experience!

Høst – $$$

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If you’re looking for a unique Nordic dining experience, Høst is the place to go. With prix-fixe menus and wine pairings, you’ll get an incredible sample of contemporary Nordic cuisine. It was the best dinner of my trip!

Yaffa – $$

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Yaffa is a modern Middle Eastern Cuisine that will delight your tastebuds. A la carte or course menus are available.

I would highly recommend the hummus and Yaffa bread (shown below).

Aamanns 1921 – $$$

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The entirety of Aamanns 1921 is a nod to Danish cuisine and is home to the open faced sandwich. From the tall ceilings and modern white interior design to the innovative Danish menu, the entire dining experience is a delight.

Visit at lunch to try the famous smørrebrød or try their modern menu at dinnertime.

Cafe Atelier September – $

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Atelier September is a vegetarian brunch spot with a bohemian vibe. Set in a former gallery, the cafe is located just off the main square of Copenhagen.

They’re most known for their artistic takes on avocado toast which is definitely worth a try!

Pro Tip: Get here when they OPEN, or be prepared to wait in line!

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Mad & Kaffe – $$

Mad & Kaffe is a gorgeous, airy cafe in the trendy Vesterbro neighborhood of Copenhagen.

They serve food as a selection of 3, 5, or 7 items to make up your “board.” The cinnamon buns are a must!

I also found this a great place to hunker down and work on my laptop (weekdays only).

BRUS – $$ Get Directions

Tapperiet BRUS is another favorite brewpub of mine in Copenhagen. The trendy, industrial restaurant serves elevated bar food, comfort food classics, and local craft beer. 

Tapperiet Brus is a great place to go when exploring the Nørreboro neighborhood.

Best Hostels in Copenhagen for Solo Travelers

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Generator Copenhagen

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On my trip, I met a girl staying at the Generator hostel. She said it’s known for its urban, fun hostels all across Europe.

It was her favorite hostel since it has an on-site restaurant and bar, shuffleboard, and rooftop petanque.

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel

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I didn’t stay here, but I visited the Copenhagen Downtown Hostel since it has such good reviews. It has been named the most popular hostel in Copenhagen several times.

Smack dab in the middle of historic Copenhagen, it’s easy to understand why.

Additional Top-Rated Hostels

• Urban House Copenhagen
• Steel House Copenhagen
• Sleep in Heaven Hostel
• Bedwood Hostel
• Next House Copenhagen
• Woodah Boutique Hostel

Where to Stay in Copenhagen – That’s Not a Hostel

Hotel SP34

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I loved staying at Hotel SP34 for the location! The room was comfortable, but small.

The vibe that dominates is Bohemian and Scandinavian at the Hotel SP34.

The on-site bar was great, and when I stayed they were doing complimentary wine hour at 5 p.m.

Hotel Skt. Petri

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Hotel Skt, Petri is located in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, just off of the Strøget.

I stayed at this hotel twice, back when it was being renovated in 2017 and again in 2022! It exudes laidback luxury.

With an on-site restaurant and room service available, you’ll be spoiled for dining options. Comfortable amenities and a central location round out the benefits of this hotel.

Bertrams Guldsmeden

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If you’re looking for a quiet stay, check out Bertrams Guldsmeden. This adults-only boutique hotel is stylish, cozy, and comfortable. Located in Inner Vesterbro, you have many delicious restaurants within walking distance and a bus stop right outside your door.

Wakeup Copenhagen

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There are also plenty of cheaper accommodations in Copenhagen that aren’t hostels. Wakeup Copenhagen is one example. Close to the central train station and Tivoli Gardens, this hotel is ultra-modern and comfortable!

Andersen Boutique Hotel

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Andersen Boutique Hotel is fun and modern with plenty of amenities! Bright splashes of colors decorate the rooms, which come equipped with mini-fridges, coffee machines, and fresh fruit! Located in Vesterbro, this hotel has a good location for a good price.

Exclusive Solo Traveling Tips to Copenhagen

Here are a few of my best tips for visiting Copenhagen!

Ditch the taxi.

Between the public transportation system and the flat walkable streets of Copenhagen, you probably won’t need to call for a taxi during your visit! There are buses and trains nearly everywhere you could need to go outside of the city center. 

Inside the city, you’ll find everything easy to get to by walking or biking. You can also stumble on lovely little corners of Copenhagen by walking!

Tipping in Copenhagen

Wondering how much to tip in Copenhagen? You are expected to tip from 5-10% in bars, restaurants, hotels and taxis. I typically leave 10%.

Expect to pay a little bit more.

Copenhagen is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so don’t be surprised if your food and drink cost a bit more than you expected. Familiarize yourself with the exchange rate of the Danish kroner before you go.

That being said, it is absolutely possible to budget your travel to Copenhagen. Splurge on the things that matter to you and save everywhere else!

English is widely spoken.

Danish is the official language of Denmark, but English is also widely spoken.

Especially in the capital city of Copenhagen, you’ll find many people comfortable speaking English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few phrases ahead of time though!

Leave room in your itinerary to explore.

Some of the best parts of Copenhagen can’t be planned or scheduled. In planning your visit to Copenhagen, be sure to leave wiggle room to explore the meandering streets of beautiful architecture or sit and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of Copenhagen’s many cafes.

Part of the beauty of solo traveling is getting to set your own schedule, so take advantage of it!

Stay in a hostel to connect with other solo travelers.

If you like connecting with other people during your travels like I do, plan to stay in a hostel. Many of the hostels in Copenhagen are quite nice and have a variety of activities meant to bring people together.

Pro Tip: Even though I found Copenhagen to be super safe, lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time. I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance, better safe than sorry!

Planning a Trip to Denmark

Conclusion: Copenhagen is a solo female traveler’s dream destination.

With a thriving foodie scene, history and culture on every corner, and plenty of things to explore, Copenhagen is a great city to visit as a solo traveler. A walkable downtown makes it even better! 

I hope these travel tips will help you get the most out of your visit to Copenhagen. It is my favorite European city and one I return to again and again!

For more solo travel tips, check out the blog, and follow me on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes of my travels!

FAQs For Solo Travel in Copenhagen

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