A Quick Guide To Cophenhagen: Where to Eat, Drink, & Explore
Living in Malmö has its perks—one of the biggest being how close we are to Copenhagen. In just 30 minutes on the train, you can be in Denmark's capital, ready to explore. After living here for almost five years, I thought it was time to create a quick guide. Below you'll find classic tourist stops, local favorites, and hidden gems. Whether you're planning a quick day trip or a weekend stay, here's my quick guide to Copenhagen. If you'd like to see what I packed into 48 hours, check out this post.
Where to Stay
Nobis Hotel – Just a 10-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station. Beautiful rooms, great location, and the perfect base for exploring the city.
Villa Copenhagen – Across the street from Central Station and Tivoli Amusement Park, gorgeous rooftop pool.
Where to Eat & Drink
Warpigs Brewpub – Craft beer + BBQ. Think pulled pork sandwiches, mac and cheese, and coleslaw.
Ved Stranden 10 – Cozy wine bar where the staff picks your pour based on your preferences.
Balderdash – Cocktail bar with the motto "Keep it Hygge." Don't miss the Mushroom Alexander.
Marv & Ben – A standout fine-dining experience. Seasonal tasting menus featuring local ingredients—one of the best meals I've ever had.
Popl – From the team behind Noma. Famous for burgers.
Reffen Street Food Market – Food stalls, shipping containers, live music, and a lively vibe right by the water.
Brus – A brewpub, restaurant, and bar under one roof. Great craft beer and fun energy.
Carlsberg Brewery – A must for beer lovers. Tour the historic brewery, enjoy their bar!
Brasserie Saigon – Tucked in the cutest courtyard, this is some of the freshest and most delicious Vietnamese I've had over here.
Stauan – Cozy bar, ask for the homemade snaps!
The Bird & The Churchkey – If you're into gin, this is your place!
Tipsy Mermaid – Bar on a boat! Great for a nice afternoon.
Duck and Cover – Very cozy cocktail bar.
What to Do
Rosenborg Castle – Walk through royal chambers, admire tapestries, and don't miss the Crown Jewels in the Treasury.
Canal Boat Tour – A great way to see the city. Tip: board at Ved Stranden and sit on the left side for the best views.
Rent a Boat – For a more personal experience, rent a small boat and cruise the canals at your own pace.
SMK – The National Gallery of Denmark – Denmark's largest art museum with over 260,000 pieces.
Shopping – Browse Illum, Magasin du Nord, Ganni, and Moscot for fashion, design, and eyewear, in addition to luxury stores like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada.
Amalienborg Palace – Home to the Danish Royal Family. Try to catch the changing of the guards.
Copenhill – Ski down an artificial slope built on top of a power plant, with incredible city views.
Opera House – A stunning modern landmark worth a stop (or a performance if you have time).
Royal Library (The Black Diamond) – Sleek, striking architecture and a quiet place to explore or recharge.
Water Taxi – Hop on and off while sightseeing along the canals.
Tivoli Gardens – One of the oldest amusement parks in the world, full of charm, rides, and magic (especially lit up at night).
Ofelia Plads – If the weather is nice, this is a great place to sit back, people watch, and enjoy a cocktail or two!
Cisternerne – Cool museum with changing exhibits in the old underground reservoir.
AIRE Ancient Baths – Take some time to relax at this wonderful bath house.
Carlsberg Glyptoteket – Art museum with beautiful solarium.
Travel Tips
Consider purchasing the 1 Ticket 6 Museums pass for big savings—it's valid for a year.
If weather is questionable, save outdoor exploring for later in the day.
Copenhagen is pricier than Malmö—budget accordingly, especially for food and drinks.
Renting bikes is the best way to explore quickly and like a local, but it can be intimidating…be warned!Wrap-Up
Wrap Up
Whether you only have one day or a full weekend, Copenhagen is full of history, culture, and seriously good food. With so much packed into a small, bike-friendly city, it’s easy to get swept up in its charm. I’m already planning my next visit—because Copenhagen never disappoints.