36 Hours in Copenhagen: A Local’s Itinerary

I’ll be honest with you: 36 hours is nowhere near enough to experience everything that Copenhagen has to offer. But thankfully, you can still enjoy a great trip in such a short space of time. Besides living in the Danish capital for over four years, I also visited on day trips before moving here. 

Based on both of those experiences, I’m putting together this complete 36-hour itinerary to help you get the most out of your trip to Copenhagen. And by the end of that time period, you’ll almost certainly be ready to come back for a longer period of time. 

start With Brunch at Mad & Kaffe

I would usually recommend that you have brunch at Apotek 57, but you normally have to wait in a lengthy queue outside—and for this trip, you’re short on time (definitely visit Apotek 57 when you can visit Copenhagen for longer, though 🙂). Instead, we’ll go to Mad & Kaffe (which literally means food and coffee in Danish). 

Mad & Kaffe has four brunch restaurants in the Copenhagen area: One in Frederiksberg, another in Vesterbro, a third one on the island of Amager, and another in Lyngby. I’d recommend the restaurant in Vesterbro or Frederiksberg for a closer proximity to the city centre. 

You can choose three, five, or seven pieces to form your brunch meal at fixed costs of 130, 160, and 190 DKK. I’d recommend booking a table in advance; you can do that here. 

Website: https://madogkaffe.dk/en/ 

Sightseeing in Copenhagen: The Highlights

After filling yourself up with some food, it’s time to enjoy some sightseeing around the Danish capital. Nyhavn is really the only place to start; although it’s touristy, this canal is also the most picturesque part of Copenhagen in my opinion. Get here as early as possible as it gets very crowded on weekends. 

From Nyhavn, you can also enjoy a boat tour and admire the Danish capital from a different perspective. 

In addition to Nyhavn, you should also take some time to check out Christiansborg Palace—which is where the Danish Prime Minister works. The small island of Slotsolmen is nice in general, too.

I’d also recommend wandering around Kastellet and Kongens Have (where you’ll find Rosenborg Castle), along with checking out the city from above at the Round Tower. You can buy your tickets from the tower.

Mid-Afternoon Hygge at Hart Bakery

One thing you’ll quickly notice about Copenhagen is that the city is full of excellent bakeries, and Hart Bageri is among the best. Hart has expanded throughout the city; you’ll find a solid selection of cookies, pastries, and much more. The coffee is also very good. 

If you want my recommendation, go for the smoked salmon sandwich if it’s there. If not, pretty much everything else is a solid bet. In addition to the food, this is a great place to experience hygge in Copenhagen.

Website: https://hartbageri.com/ 

Afternoon: The Lakes, Vesterbro, and Nørrebro 

After sampling Copenhagen’s bakery scene, head over to some of the places where the locals spend their time. The Lakes are a prime hangout spot on a sunny day, and they’re pretty enough to either walk around or enjoy some food (if you’re still feeling hungry after your Hart visit). 

The Lakes are also ideal for branching off into lively Vesterbro and Nørrebro. I lived close to Vesterbro for two years and spent most of my time here; the laid-back vibe is great, and you’ll also find a number of second-hand shops. Vesterbro is also ideal if you’re looking for dinner; I’d recommend any of La Neta (Mexican), Warpigs (pork and craft beer), and Halifax Burgers. 

Nørrebro is also an interesting district with some off-the-beaten-path attractions, including Assistens Kirkegaard—the resting place of Hans Christian Andersen and many other prominent Danish figures. You’ll also find Superkilen, a public space where you’ll find skating, ping-pong, and more. Nørrebro also has some great restaurants and bars if you’re looking for a night out. Léanowski Bar is quite fun, for example, and so is BRUS (the burgers are also quite nice here 🙂). 

Morning II: Brunch at Café Dyrehaven 

With your flight home not far away, start your morning with some food at Café Dyrehaven. This low-key café and bar on Sønder Boulevard is one of Copenhagen’s most underrated spots. You should definitely get the Eggs Benedict (I’d also recommend the cinnamon buns). 

Another great alternative for something quick is BRØD, a bakery on Enghave Plads. If you’re into something savoury, ask for one of the buns and some cheese and butter. It sounds basic, but it’s *very* good. Alternatively, go for one of the various sweet treats. 

Christianshavn and Islands Brygge

To round off your 36 hours in Copenhagen, spend some time wandering around Christianshavn. This bohemian neighbourhood is not far from Nyhavn, and its main canal also features colourful houses. If the weather allows, I’d recommend going to the top of Vor Frelsers Kirke for the best view of Copenhagen (be sure to book your tickets in advance!). 

From Christianshavn, you can easily get to Islands Brygge. This waterfront area is packed with locals during the summer, and it’s a popular place to enjoy those late evenings with a book or some food. Islands Brygge also has bathing zones and several eateries nearby, serving pizza, ice cream, and more. Boat rentals are also available. 

From Islands Brygge, you can easily take the Metro to Copenhagen Airport. From there, you can look back on your photos and desperately wait to land so you can book another trip here 🙂.

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