Copenhagen Solo Travel: An Exciting Weekend Itinerary
Demark is known for having the happiest people around. I could certainly tell you that after only a couple of days there I myself was happier too. My solo weekend in Copenhagen was awesome! There is a reason why this city is so often recommended for traveling solo. It’s beautiful, chic, easy to navigate, has great food, isn’t obnoxious, and has plenty of activities.
With that said, I have planned the perfect Copenhagen solo travel itinerary and I am happy to share it with you today! You’ll find an awesome weekend plan, a map, ideas for things to do in Copenhagen alone, and some food recommendations for your travels. No need to scramble a plan from different sources, I gotchu with everything you’ll need for your weekend away.
Whether this is your 1st or 50th solo trip, I know you’ll find some useful advice along with interesting places in this solo trip to Copenhagen itinerary.
Quick Logistics of Traveling to Copenhagen Alone
My Personal Copenhagen Solo Travel Experience
I traveled to Copenhagen in the summer of 2022 and loved every second of being there (well aside from the torrential half a day rain 🙂 ). I found the city to be full of activities even as a solo traveler and without only a couple of days there, I felt like it wasn’t enough time to see everything!
The beauty of solo travel is that you can do WHATEVER you want and WHENEVER you want. You can have a whole plan to follow and then decide to do completely something else because of a new idea that comes along. That happened to me. I planned my trip with the itinerary below but then on day 2 of it, I ended up tagging along for some Pride festivities with random strangers I met.
I ended up catching up on the plan the following day and felt super happy that I was able to experience something more local and totally not planned! So my advice for any solo itinerary is to always have a plan so you don’t end up sitting in a hostel/hotel googling things to do in x but be open to deviating from the plan if something exciting comes along! It’s how the best travel stories are created!
Is Copenhagen safe for female solo travelers?
Copenhagen continuously ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. Just because a place is ranked so high, that doesn’t automatically mean that you should completely let your guard down and assume you’ll be safe. I took the same exact precautions in Copenhagen as I would when traveling to Barcelona. However, when exploring the town, I felt totally fine and not threatened in any way. Based on research as well as my own experience, I can confidently say that Copenhagen is an amazing solo destination for a female traveler!
I would still advise taking the following precautions for female travelers as no city is 100% safe:
- Don’t tell anyone where you are staying and that you’re traveling alone. Simple concept but you don’t owe anyone an explanation and you don’t want some weird situation happening either.
- Keep your passport and valuables locked up in a safe/box, especially if you’re in a hostel.
- When using public transport or walking around, keep your belongings near you. If you have a purse, hold your hand over the zipper. Don’t be too flashy with your things either.
- Do not use ATMs in secluded areas or after dark. Always use an ATM within the branch or within a busier area.
- As a female solo traveler, you have to be more mindful of staying out alone. If you really want to socialize late, stay within your hotel or hostel bars or ones close by. I (try) to be back before dark when I am alone. You never want to end up walking in a dark alley even in Copenhagen.
- And this should be obvious but never ever accept drinks from people if you didn’t see it being poured at the bar yourself!
Where should you stay as a solo traveler in Copenhagen?
If you’re traveling alone in any city, not just Copenhagen, you should always stay in the city center. Why? Well because it’s easy to get to the action, there are a ton of people around and transportation is usually easy. Some will argue that the center is always the most touristy and pricey but why make your life more difficult by trying not to be a tourist as a tourist 🙂
When I traveled there, I wanted to stay somewhere social so I chose the Generator Hostel. I stayed in Generators all over the world and usually like them, but this one was just ok. It did have a great location for exploring and a social bar to make some friends. For a while now, if I stay in hostels, I choose private rooms because well, I am getting too old for shared rooms and communal snoring. However, Copenhagen is WILDLY expensive, and justifying spending $700 for a weekend stay wasn’t something I could stomach. So I ended up in a 6 people dorm for 65 euro a night … Do I regret it? Yes.
Instead, here are other cool, highly rated and centrally located options in the city that I considered:
Public transport in Copenhagen is amazing! The metro will take you from the airport into the city center in about 15-20 minutes. Within the city, the metro runs 24/7, is clean, and super safe. Here is the link for specific station information.
If you’re staying in the center, you won’t need to use it much as everything is walkable. Everyone in Copenhagen also bikes since it is a perfect city for that too. Bikes are everywhere and it’s wild how many of them you see near the major transportation hubs! I was fascinated by the biking culture there! A lot of the bikes aren’t even locked up. In my town, I lock up my bike outside a coffee shop …
Best Time to Visit Copenhagen
Without a doubt, I will recommend visiting in the summer, especially as a solo traveler! There are so many outdoor activities and places to see that won’t be open in the colder seasons. Even shoulder season is great for a visit but unless you have a specific reason to visit in the winter, it might not be as exciting for solo travel during cold times!
Food in Copenhagen
There certainly isn’t a shortage of amazing food in Copenhagen. The whole city is a vibe when it comes to its food scene. Not only are there many great restaurants but you’ll also find food halls and lots of outdoor dining.
At the very minimum, you have to try some danish pastries, open-faced sandwiches, hotdogs (yes, hotdogs are a thing there), seafood, flæskesvær (pork rinds), and all the amazing goodies from the food truck scene!
Copenhagen is Expensive
Copenhagen is so so expensive, especially for a solo traveler since you’re not splitting your accommodation or meal costs. A couple of years back I had the same shock when I traveled solo to Stockholm but this was another level expensive in my opinion including the recent inflation.
The currency there is the Danish Krone (1 USD ~ 6.5 Krones). A meal at a sit-down restaurant will range from 200-500 kr for 1 person, a beer is around 40-60 kr, a coffee will be around 30 kr. Expect to spend between $80-$150 a day there on a budget.
Don’t exchange money though, maybe just withdraw a small amount from the ATM if not having cash makes you nervous. Mostly everything in Copenhagen is cashless, so instead use a good travel card!
Random Things I Noticed in Copenhagen
- Copenhagen is such a friendly city! I had conversations with shop owners and just random people and found it to be a very welcoming place.
- Speaking of people, this is a very “cultured” city in my opinion. People are very elegant and behave with that Northern Europe class that you see across that region.
- Additionally, it’s become a very inclusive city over the past couple of years. I traveled during Pride and I was (pleasantly) surprised by how the locals celebrated it. It was a whole family affair and everyone was in the streets just having fun and enjoying all the festivities.
Copenhagen Solo Weekend Itinerary
Now that you have the basics of Copenhagen, let’s get to the solo itinerary. My Copenhagen solo travel weekend itinerary is a full 2-day plan with some additional activities if you have some extra time! There are so many things to do alone in Copenhagen. Drink lots of coffee because your days will be busy.
Day 1 of Solo Things in Copenhagen:
King’s New Square
Start your explorations by navigating toward Kings New Square, a public square located in the heart of Copenhagen. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the old stock exchange and several former merchant houses. It is a hub for public transportation, with several major roads converging and several metro and bus lines stopping there. It’s a popular gathering place for locals and tourists, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops located in the surrounding buildings.
Now that you arrived at a good starting point, grab breakfast at one of the bakeries nearby. You can go to a popular local chain Lagkagehuset or one that l loved called Buka.
Nyhavn
After fueling up for the day on some much-needed sugary carbs and a good coffee, head to the poster child of Copenhagen, Nyhvan.
Nyhavn is a historic harbor and canal in Copenhagen, Denmark. It is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its colorful row houses, lively atmosphere, and rich history. A stroll there is simply a must for anyone visiting Copenhagen, as it provides a unique insight into the city’s maritime past and its cultural heritage.
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canal, taking in the colorful facades of the row houses and the boats moored in the harbor. The area is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it an ideal place to stop for a drink. I decided to stop there for a meal but I wouldn’t recommend one there. It was a very touristy and gross one compared to meals I ate throughout the city. During the summer months, many of the restaurants and cafes set up outdoor seating, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to its historic and cultural significance, Nyhavn is also known for its literary history. Many famous Danish writers, including Hans Christian Andersen, lived and worked in the area, and it has inspired numerous works of literature and art over the years.
Boat Tour
Nyhavn is also a popular spot for boat tours, offering visitors the chance to see Copenhagen from the water and explore its many canals and waterways. While strolling up and down the canal, I noticed one last boat leaving for the day and decided to hop on and see what it was all about. While I am the last person to take a touristy bus or boat (although I did really enjoy my cheesy boat tour in Paris), I actually really enjoyed this one.
As a solo traveler, I was really able to soak in the city from a unique perspective and get a lay of the land and some new ideas of what I wanted to see. It showed me that I did not want to take the time out of my day to see the Little Mermaid Statue 🙂 The tours leave from top of Nyhvan and there are many options for times. The providers offer very similar routes so just hop on what’s available and enjoy learning some history while seeing some amazing sights!
Amalienborg & Frederik’s Church
After a boat ride from the Nyhvan, walk all the way down toward the Playhouse. It’s an outdoor area where you can relax, people-watch, and enjoy a refreshing spritz. Then walk on the small waterfront promenade towards Amaliehaven garden. Although the area is touristy and crowded, I really enjoyed the beautiful fountains along with the whole area.
Next, Amalienborg is a famous square in Copenhagen, best known as the residence of the Danish Royal Family. A highlight for visiting the area is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 12:00 pm. I personally had no idea that the ceremony was a thing there and ended up walking past it at that specific hour 🙂
The square also includes the Amalienborg Museum and the Marble Church, both of which offer a glimpse into Danish royalty and the city’s rich history.
Reffen
After a very busy morning, you deserve a break! And there is no better place for an afternoon meal and a cold beer than at Reffen! It’s a vibrant street food market and outdoor area located in the Copenhagen neighborhood of Refshaleøen. You can either take public transport there or take a pretty long walk.
There you can sample a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, including Thai, Mexican, Mediterranean, and Nordic. Some popular vendors include “Tacos Anonymous,” “Mama Sharpe’s,” and “Fiskebaren,” offering dishes ranging from tacos and burgers to fish and chips. Prices at Reffen are average for Copenhagen, with most dishes costing between 80-120 kr ($12-$18 USD).
In addition to food, the market also features a variety of shops and boutiques selling clothing, jewelry, and other handmade goods. During the summer months, it is typically open from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm, while in the winter, it is open from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Day 2:
For your Day 2 of solo Copenhagen activities, you’ll explore more of the city, eat some awesome food, and visit the famous Tivoli Gardens! For the morning part, you can always do a Free Walking Tour or simply get the highlights yourself using my route below.
City Hall Square
Start your day at City Hall Square, a central public square that is pretty neat. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including the City Hall, which serves as the headquarters of the City of Copenhagen. You can enter the hall for free or explore city views from its tower for a small fee. The square is also home to several popular landmarks, including the Stork Fountain, the former main post office, and the Tivoli Hotel.
In the square, you can enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many outdoor cafes and restaurants that line it or take a stroll around the nearby lakes and parks.
Stroget
Next, it’s time to shop, or just stoll along this gem. Strøget is a popular shopping street in the heart of Copenhagen. It is considered one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe and is a must-visit for anyone interested in shopping, dining, and exploring the city. Strøget is lined with a mix of high-end and budget-friendly shops, including clothing stores, souvenir shops, and specialty stores.
Don’t forget to step away from the main street and get lost in the pretty side streets too!
Rundetarn
Next, it’s time for a little exercise! Or rather not much exercise as the building you’re about to enter has a round climb that won’t make you feel like you’ve done much climbing! I really enjoyed its unique structure but my favorite part of it was the views from the top!
Rundetårn (Round Tower) is a historic tower located right near Stroget. Built-in the 17th century, it serves as both an observatory and a popular tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Visitors can reach the top of the tower via a ramp, which winds its way up to the top, providing a unique and leisurely way to take in the views. Admission to Rundetårn is priced at 35 kr ($5 USD) and the tower is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Torvehallerne
Now, the best part your afternoon. It’s time to eat! Let’s explore Torehallerne for that activity.
Torvehallerne is a popular indoor food market. It is the perfect destination for food lovers looking to explore the local culinary scene while enjoying a solo weekend in Copenhagen. The market features a wide range of stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and street food, making it a great place to sample local specialties and try something new.
Popular stalls at Torvehallerne include GRØD, which specializes in hearty, Danish-style porridge; The Coffee Collective, offering specialty coffee from local roasters; and Kødbyens Fiskebar, serving fresh seafood dishes. Other popular stalls include Hallernes Smørrebrød, featuring traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches, and Spiselauget, offering a range of gourmet hot dogs.
I ended up eating some tapas and sipping on a cold Spanish beer! There was a small flea market outside in which I did some damage shopping for vintage watches 🙂
Tivoli Gardens
Last but certainly not least, for the last part of your day head over to the best place in town (in my humble opinion), Tivoli Gardens!
Tivoli Gardens is an iconic amusement park founded all the way back in 1843. It is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks and a popular destination for visitors of all ages. Tivoli Gardens features a variety of amusement park attractions, beautiful gardens, live entertainment, and decent dining options.
Tivoli Gardens is open during the summer months, from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. Admission is priced at 120 kr ($18 USD). You have the option of purchasing individual rides or an all-you-can-ride pass.
I absolutely loved the gardens! I spent a good time walking around loving how magical the place felt and that’s coming from someone who isn’t a big fan of these types of places. I purchased the unlimited pass and went later in the day. However, to my surprise, the rides closed at 10 pm and I only got to ride a couple of them 🙁 While I thoroughly enjoyed the grounds and my dinner, I totally didn’t plan out my timing to enjoy the rides and kinda messed up there.
BONUS: Meatpacking District!
If you’re like me and resting when traveling is not in your vocabulary, don’t forget to visit the Meatpacking District for your nightlife adventures.
The Meatpacking District of Copenhagen is a popular destination for nightlife and entertainment, offering a range of options for those looking to experience Copenhagen’s night scene. The district is located just a short walk from the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation.
You can expect to find a mix of bars, clubs, and music venues, offering a range of experiences from casual drinks to all-night parties. Popular venues in the area include Jolene, a bar and music venue with a focus on live performances and DJs; Culture Box, a club and concert venue known for its cutting-edge sound system; and Bakken, a lively bar and dance club.
Don’t forget to be mindful of going out alone as a solo traveler though!
Map for your Copenhagen Solo Travel
Additional Places
If you happen to have an extra day in the city, here are some additional spots for you to explore.
Freetown Christiana
Probably the most interesting and fascinating place in the city is Freetown Christiana. This was on my itinerary but unfortunately, half a day of heavy rain ruined this plan for me.
Freetown Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood in Copenhagen, Denmark, known for its alternative lifestyle and vibrant community. Founded in 1971 as a response to the housing shortage and gentrification in Copenhagen, Christiania is home to around 1,000 residents who live in a unique and self-governed community.
While Freetown Christiania is not an official part of Copenhagen, it is a popular destination for visitors who are looking to experience a unique and alternative side of the city. You’ll find a unique and eclectic mix of art, music, and culture, with a range of street performers, musicians, and vendors selling handcrafted goods and street food. The neighborhood is also known for its street art, with a range of murals and graffiti adorning the walls of buildings and homes.
Freetown Christiania operates under its own set of rules and regulations, including a ban on photography (although some areas allow you to take pictures), cars, and hard drugs. If you choose to visit, you absolutely must respect these rules!
Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle is a historic palace in Copenhagen, where you can explore its beautiful gardens and grand interiors. Expect to see a range of rooms and halls, each decorated in a unique and ornate style. Highlights of the castle include the Knight’s Hall, which displays a collection of weapons and armor from the 17th century, and the Crown Jewels, which include the Danish crown, scepter, and orb. Don’t forget to spend some time in the castle’s beautiful gardens, which feature a range of ornate fountains and sculptures, as well as a small pond and park area.
Statens Museum for Kunst
Statens Museum for Kunst, also known as the National Gallery of Denmark, is a leading art museum located in Copenhagen. The museum features an extensive collection of Danish and international art, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Goya, and Rubens. The museum is open every day except for Monday and admission is free, making it an accessible and affordable destination for art lovers and culture enthusiasts visiting Copenhagen.
While this was on my itinerary, I ended up celebrating at pride with random strangers I met instead! Sorry, Rembrandt.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Copenhagen Solo
Copenhagen is one of my favorite places that I traveled to solo! The city felt safe, there was plenty to see and the only thing stopping me from staying longer was its prices 🙂
If you have any suggestions or comments on places to visit as a solo traveler in Copenhagen, don’t forget to add them below!!
