Copenhagen Solo Travel Guide

Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark. 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. With so many flocking to this great city, I created a Copenhagen solo travel guide to help you plan!

With Copenhagen’s rich history and culture plus stunning contemporary and baroque architecture, it’s no surprise it tops many bucket lists. This beautiful city is easy to get around on foot! Public transportation is safe and affordable for travelers. You can do plenty of things all year round, making it a great solo travel destination.

Between getting lost in castles, spirited away by children’s fairy tales, and learning about the cheerful culture of Denmark’s capital city, you’ll surely want to return to Copenhagen again and again. I’m dedicating this post to helping you make the most out of your solo trip to Copenhagen!

Copenhagen Solo Travel Guide

Is Copenhagen Safe for Solo Female Travelers

Copenhagen is one of the best solo travel destinations for women. Overall, 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 travel 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.

Things to Do in Copenhagen

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!

Tivoli Gardens Entrance Ticket and Unlimited Rides– Buy Here

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.

View the iconic colorful houses along Nyhavn.

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Canal Cruise Tickets

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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!

Rent a bicycle.

Copenhagen is one of the most cyclist-friendly places in the world. 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 – Get Tickets Here

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 is home to 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 just take in the beautiful quotidian life in Copenhagen.

Hidden Gems Canal Tour– Likely to Sell Out. Get tickets 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.

Tourists love 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.

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Stylish Picks for Copenhagen

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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. This urban and cultural area champions sustainability in all of 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 enjoying climbing 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!

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.

Another spot for a quick bit with plenty of options in Copenhagen is Torvehallerne. Copenhagen’s most popular marketplace is 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 – $$ | Get Directions

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 – $$ | Get Directions

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 – $$$ | Get Directions

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 – $$$ | Get Directions

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!

Gemyse – $$$ | Get Directions

Located in Tivoli Gardens, Gemyse is a restaurant not to be missed! With a plant-forward menu that’s ideal for vegetarians, every plate is a fresh taste. The dining area is also in a beautiful glass greenhouse, connecting you to the beautiful scenery around you!

For entry to this restaurant, you must also have an entry ticket to Tivoli Gardens.

Yaffa – $$ | Get Directions

Yaffa is a modern Middle Eastern Cuisine that will delight your tastebuds. A la carte or course menu are available. I would highly recommend the hummus and Yaffa bread.

Aamanns 1921 – $$$ | Get Directions

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 – $ | Get Directions

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!

Mad & Kaffe – $$ | Get Directions

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! As a solo female traveler, I also found this a great place to hunker down.

The Alchemist – $$$$ | Get Directions

The Alchemist is one of the many Copenhagen restaurants that have a Michelin star. In fact, this restaurant has 2 Michelin stars! Dining at The Alchemist is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The unique venue features bar-style seating that snakes its way through the dining room. I loved that the ceiling displayed moving images of the Northern Lights.

There are 47 courses in this set menu of molecular gastronomy, so prepare for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Noma – $$$$ | Get Directions

Noma was named the World’s Best Restaurant in 2022. With three Michelin stars, it’s no surprise that Noma is also largely considered the best restaurant in Copenhagen. You’ll be delighted by 20 innovative courses in a beautiful wood-filled space.

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. 

Mirabelle – $$ | Get Directions

Mirabelle is an Italian bakery located in the Nørreboro area of Copenhagen. In addition to the sourdough croissant they’re known for, Mirabelle also serves up a wide range of cafe-style dishes.

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Best Hostels in Copenhagen for Solo Travelers

Generator Copenhagen – Get Directions

Generator is known for its urban, fun hostels all across Europe, and the Copenhagen location is no exception! This is probably one of the best hostels in Copenhagen for solo travelers, as it’s designed to encourage interaction. 

With an on-site restaurant and bar, shuffleboard, and rooftop petanque, there’s plenty to do within the hostel itself. Outside, Generator Copenhagen is located right off of Kongens Nytorv, one of the largest squares in Copenhagen. It’s just minutes away from many of the iconic Copenhagen spots, including Nyhavn.

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel – Get Directions

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel 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. The hostel has more of a younger, party vibe, but it’s plenty of fun for solo travelers. They have a cool bar and happy hours that encourage connection!

Urban House Copenhagen – Get Directions

Urban House Copenhagen is a large, modern hostel in the Vesterbro neighborhood of Copenhagen. The hostel is just two minutes away from Copenhagen’s central station. It’s perfectly situated to explore both the historic and trendy areas. The hostel bar has live music and local craft beers.

Steel House Copenhagen – Get Directions

Steel House Copenhagen is a luxury hostel with an industrial feel. Sleek white and wood-paneled sleeping pods are beautiful and comfortable. The hostel even has a restaurant, gym, pool, and yoga classes! 

Sleep in Heaven Hostel – Get Directions

Sleep in Heaven Hostel is a highly recommended Copenhagen hostel that’s also easy on the budget. Housing travelers since 1999, this hostel is one of Copenhagen’s oldest, yet it’s still vibrant and comfortable. With a spacious beer garden and cheerful decor, Sleep in Heaven Hostel is a great choice for where to stay in Copenhagen.

Danhostel Copenhagen City – Get Directions

Danhostel Copenhagen City is the largest hostel in Europe, capable of sleeping over a thousand guests. Located in a high-rise in the heart of Copenhagen, Danhostel is one of the best hostels in Copenhagen.

Bedwood Hostel – Get Directions

Bedwood Hostel is a more rustic feeling hostel experience than many of the more modern designed hostels in Copenhagen. Housed in an old historic warehouse along Nyhavn, Bedwood Hostel is cozy and well-appointed. The location is hard to beat!

Next House Copenhagen – Get Directions

Next House Copenhagen is truly a next-level hostel experience. This high-quality hostel has sleeping pods for additional privacy as well as so many amenities. A games room includes pool tables, foosball, and board games. Spend restorative time at the gym or rooftop garden, or mingle in the common areas, lounges, or on-site bar.

Woodah Boutique Hostel – Get Directions

Woodah Boutique Hostel is a family-owned boutique hostel that’s one of the most all-inclusive hostels in Copenhagen. Breakfast, towels, toiletries, and WiFi are all free at this hostel! Japanese and Scandinavian styles mesh in the design throughout the hostel in a nod toward the hostel’s focus on eco-friendly practices.

Copenhagen Backpackers Hostel – Get Directions

Copenhagen Backpackers Hostel is one of the cheapest hostels in Copenhagen. This small hostel is simple yet comfortable, with an eco-friendly focus. The design is traditional Scandinavian, and they have an on-site bar and breakfast, including house-baked bread!

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

Hotel SP34 – Get Directions

Converted from three townhomes, this boutique hotel has substantial amenities and an ideally central location. Bohemian, Scandinavian style dominates the design of Hotel SP34. Start your day with an in-room sweat thanks to a fitness kit in your room complete with weights and a yoga mat. Join the crowd for a complimentary wine hour at 5 p.m.

Hotel Skt. Petri – Get Directions

Hotel Skt, Petri is located in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, just off of the Strøget. The hotel was renovated in 2017 and 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 – Get Directions

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.

71 Nyhavn – Get Directions

71 Nyhavn is situated right on the iconic row of colorful houses in Copenhagen’s Nyhavn harbor. Converted from two warehouses from the 1800s, you can’t beat the vibes or location of this hotel! Charming, homey interiors make for a comfortable stay in the heart of Copenhagen.

Nimb Hotel – Get Directions

The Nimb Hotel is a five-star hotel in a prime, central Copenhagen location. The hotel is actually located in Tivoli Gardens. From the lobby to the rooftop pool, Nimb is modern, chic luxury all the way up!

Nobis Hotel – Get Directions

Chic Scandinavian style set in an old castle-like building is what awaits you during your stay at Nobis Hotel. Marble and chandeliers make for a luxurious experience, as does the world-class service. The on-site restaurant, Niels, is also excellent.

Wakeup Copenhagen – Get Directions

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 – Get Directions

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.

Hotel d’Angleterre – Get Directions

If you’re looking for the premier hotel in Copenhagen, Hotel d’Angleterre is it. Set in a historic building overlooking the main Kongens Nytorv, d’Angleterre offers ultimate luxury in a traditional, romantic setting. Spacious rooms, an on-site spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant are just some of the highlights of this five-star hotel.

Axel Guldsmeden – Get Directions

This laidback hotel features Balinese design, organic goods, and a desirable location in the trendy Vesterbro area of Copenhagen. With beautiful white rooms, a rooftop spa, and a greenhouse dining area, there’s plenty to love about Axel Guldsmeden.

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!

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!

Take a day trip to Sweden if you have time.

Copenhagen is just across the water from another Scandinavian country, Sweden. From Copenhagen, you can easily take a day trip to Helsingborg and Malmo. Both are beautiful Scandinavian towns and a fun way to switch up your itinerary.

Pack comfortable, all-weather clothes.

With all the walking you’ll be doing and the often cool, rainy weather in Copenhagen, be sure to pack accordingly. Like many European countries, the general fashion is casual but put-together. Leave the flip-flops at home and bring a few pairs of good walking shoes, plus a travel umbrella and rain jacket for rainy days!

Pay attention to the rules of the road.

Nearly 50% of Copenhagen citizens’ daily commutes are done by bicycle. That means it’s important to pay attention to bike lanes and traffic, especially during rush hour. Whether you’re walking or plan to do some cycling, familiarize yourself with the rules.

Leave room in your itinerary to explore.

Some of the best parts of Copenhagen can’t be planned or scheduled. In planning your visit, be sure to leave wiggle room to explore 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.

Customs & Etiquette When You Visit Copenhagen

Dining

Meals often take quite a bit of time in Danish culture. You can expect a leisurely meal with lots of conversation. It is also considered a sign of respect to finish your food, and you can show you are done by placing the fork and knife together on the plate with the handles pointing to the right.

Greetings

A handshake accompanies formal greetings. Another thing to note is that the question “How are you?” isn’t as casual as it is in America. In Denmark, such a question is usually reserved for if you actually know the person on a personal level and genuinely care about the answer.

Tipping

Tipping isn’t customary in Copenhagen. Service is usually included as part of the bill for restaurants, hotels, and taxis. Although it’s not expected, tip is appreciated for exceptional service. If you feel like tipping, 10 percent is adequate.

Getting Around Town

Walking and biking are the two most common ways to get around Copenhagen. That being said, be mindful of the stated and unstated rules. Don’t jaywalk, don’t drink and bike, and make sure you know the biking rules before you pedal off!

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Must-Have Travel Guides for Denmark

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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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