The Best 2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary (with Free Map)

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Before delving into the itinerary’s details, it’s crucial to find the most practical lodging option considering the short duration of your stay. 

With two days in Copenhagen, it’s better to choose your accommodation in the city center, in the areas of Indre by, Nyhavn, or Christianshavn. To maximize your experience, here are some excellent recommendations that perfectly match this itinerary: 

✅ Best Hotel – Motel One Copenhagen: you won’t be disappointed with this amazing 4-star hotel! It boasts a stunning interior design in the traditional Danish style and provides all the luxurious amenities you could ask for. Look no further for an unforgettable stay in Copenhagen.

💰 Best Budget Hotel – Wakeup Copenhagen Borgergade: this hotel couldn’t be better situated, just a short 5-min walk away from Nyhavn old port and Strøget. While the rooms may be on the smaller side, they are spotlessly clean and provide all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

✨ Best Luxury Hotel – NH Collection Copenhagen: situated by the canal, this place offers all the features you could ever desire, with a bonus of an exceptional city view. From its prime location to its attentive staff, top-notch amenities, and delicious food, everything at this hotel is nothing short of a 5-star experience.

FYI, Nesrine and I stayed at Wakeup Copenhagen during our trip and had a fantastic experience. The bed was amazingly comfy, everything was clean, and the amenities exceeded our expectations. We particularly enjoyed the spacious lounge area with a snack bar and the concierge service that allowed us to store our luggage after checking out. And let’s not forget the ideal location, right next to Rosenborg Castle!

Getting Around Copenhagen in 2 days

One more essential point to consider to follow this itinerary is transportation. You have several options available:

Using the Copenhagen Card

The Copenhagen Card is a pass that grants you access to more than 80 city attractions as well as unlimited access to all public transport (bus, metro, train, and harbor buses) in the entire Copenhagen area (transport to and from the airport is included).

The card is available in different versions at different prices depending on the length of your stay: 

• 24-hour pass: 62€/adults, 34€/Junior (12-15 years old)
• 48-hour pass: 92€/adults, 50€/Junior (12-15 years old)
• 72-hour pass: 113€/adults, 61€/Junior (12-15 years old)
• 96-hour pass: 132€/adults, 72€/Junior (12-15 years old)
• 120-hour pass: 148€/adults, 80€/Junior (12-15 years old)

The Copenhagen Card is free for kids under 12, but you still need to book a dedicated child card for each kid between 3-11 years old you’re traveling with. Also note that each adult is allowed to bring up to 2 kids under 12 for free maximum. 👉 Book here.

➡️ To visit Copenhagen in two days, purchasing the 48-hour pass is cost-effective if you plan on entering most of the attractions mentioned in this itinerary. It’s also very practical as you’d be able to use public transportation freely, without worrying about getting a ticket first in the vending machines. But if you don’t want to enter the attractions, it’s better to seek another option among those mentioned below. 

Kongens Nytorv square in center Copenhagen

Transport Alternatives

If you choose not to get a Copenhagen Card, you can always prefer the following options: 

🚎 City Pass: buy this pass from the metro vending machines to enjoy unlimited rides on all of Copenhagen’s transportation systems. The pass is available in 2 versions, City Pass Large (for travel outside the city) and City Pass Small (Copenhagen area only + airport) for 24 to 120 hours.

For this itinerary, you’d only need the City Pass Small, which costs 10,7€ for 24 hours and 20€ for 48 hours.

🚲 Bike: Copenhagen boasts over 350 kilometers of bicycle lanes, making it one of the most bicycle-friendly capitals in Europe, and cycling is a fundamental aspect of Danish culture.

• Donkey Bike: this is the company running the orange bikes you’ll see all over the city. Simply download the app and pay about 55 DKK (7,4€) for 2 hours.
• Guided bike tours: opting for a guided bike tour is a pricier but highly effective way to explore the city, allowing you to cover most of it within 1.5 to 3 hours.

Enough talk, let’s get to your 2 days itinerary in Copenhagen NOW! 👇

Copenhagen 2 Day Itinerary Overview + Map

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This itinerary allows you to visit Copenhagen’s major attractions at a comfortable pace. While it’s 100% doable on foot, you still can use public transportation or rent a bicycle at your convenience, at any time.

DAY 1:

• 9.30 am – Rosenborg Palace
• 11.30 am – Botanical Garden
• 1 pm – Lunch at Torvehallerne
• 2 pm – Round Tower
• 3 pm – Strøget
• 3.30 pm – National Museum
• 5.30 pm – Tivoli Gardens

DAY 2:

• 10 am – Kastellet + Little Mermaid
• 12 pm – Amalienborg Palace
• 12.30 – Frederiks Kirke
• 1 pm – Lunch at Nyhavn
• 2 pm – Christiansborg Palace
• 3.30 pm – Christiana Freetown
• 6 pm – Reffen Copenhagen Street Food

Day 1 Step-by-Step Itinerary

On the first day of this guide on what to see in Copenhagen in 2 days, you’ll discover some of Copenhagen’s best sights and attractions.

I suggest starting this route at 9:30 am to be comfortable with the time.

1. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle, along with its royal garden (Kongens Have), is one of the most stunning landmarks in central Copenhagen, and a must-see for culture enthusiasts wondering what to do in Copenhagen in 2 days.

Built by King Christian IV between 1606 and 1633, the castle was used as a royal residence until 1710 and has been open to visitors since 1830 as a museum, showcasing an impressive collection of royal objects, furniture, and art. 

A visit to Rosenborg Castle is well worth it as you can admire the crown jewels and royal crowns.

2. Botanical Garden

Located right behind Rosenborg Castle, the Copenhagen Botanical Garden is quite famous for its spectacular greenhouses. You’ll love to walk in this green setting!

Founded in 1600, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. It covers more than 10 hectares and has more than 13,000 species of plants, trees, and shrubs from all over the world, including 600 species specific to Denmark.

The Palm House dating from 1874 is the highlight of the garden, featuring an exquisite array of palms and carnivorous plants which are sure to capture your attention.

3. Lunch at Torvehallerne

After these first 2 visits, it will probably be time to go for a snack!

Torvehallerne, the city market is the place to be. It’s located right next to the Nørreport train station and only 8 min walk from the botanical garden.

Here, you’ll be able to find Danish specialties, fresh fish, cheese, and more in a nice atmosphere. There are about 80 different retailers in this covered market, which also includes small cafes and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to try a smørrebrød, this open-faced dark rye sandwich that is a staple of Danish gastronomy.

4. Round Tower

Once you’ve had a satisfying lunch, walk for 8 min to the oldest operational observatory in Europe, the Round Tower (Rundetårn), to take in some stunning views of Copenhagen from above.

The tower is located on Købmagergade, which is known for its lively atmosphere. This red-brick baroque-style astronomical observatory was built in the 17th century and is part of the Trinitatis Complex, which includes the Trinity Church and a library.

To reach the top, you’ll need to climb a unique spiral paved ramp instead of a traditional staircase, but it’s not at all tiring and takes only around 5 min to reach the observation deck. From 34.8 meters above ground, you’ll get a breathtaking 360° view of the city.

4. Strøget

Walk for about 5 min from the Round Tower to reach Strøget – one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets.

This vibrant street runs right through the heart of Indre by, from Kongens Nytorv to the City Hall, providing a perfect opportunity to soak in Copenhagen’s bustling atmosphere.

Strøget is home to a variety of fancy fashion stores, international brands, street vendors, restaurants, fast food joints, and more. Make sure to explore the area and take a break in one of the many charming coffee shops to enjoy a Hygge break while indulging in some Danish treats. And don’t forget to grab a souvenir to remember your time in Copenhagen!

5. National Museum of Denmark

Also in the same neighborhood, only a 10-minute walk away, the National Museum of Copenhagen traces the history of Denmark from prehistory to the present day.

Housed in a magnificent 18th-century palace, the Nationalmuseet displays collections from prehistory, the Middle Ages, and the Danish Renaissance as well as ethnographic collections and Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquities.

All in all, a very instructive visit to learn more about Denmark, ideal to end the afternoon with. 

6. Tivoli Gardens

To end the day on a high note, spend your evening at Tivoli Gardens! Located only a short 4-min walk from the National Museum, Tivoli Gardens is the world’s second-oldest amusement park.

This park has been entertaining both tourists and locals since 1843 with its classic wooden roller coaster and one of the world’s largest carousels. You can enjoy yourself by taking a ride on one of the many attractions or take a leisurely walk through the park’s stunning scenery featuring beautiful architecture, verdant gardens, and historic buildings illuminated by fascinating lights.

When it’s time for dinner, head over to the Tivoli Food Hall where you can treat yourself to traditional Danish dishes or international cuisine. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a Saturday between May and September, don’t miss the fireworks show at 11.45 pm to end your evening with a bang.

End of DAY 1!

Don’t forget to download this map for free to get everything set right now. 🙂

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Day 2 Step-by-Step Itinerary

On this second and final day, we’ll be visiting some of the most popular tourist attractions without which our two days in Copenhagen itinerary wouldn’t be complete.

I suggest being at the first stop of this route at 10 am to be comfortable with the time.

1. Kastellet & the Little Mermaid

Let’s start the day with an outdoor activity visiting Kastellet and the Little Mermaid statue, both located seaside in the northern part of the city. The area is very well served by many bus and subway lines, perfect if you don’t want to walk across town early in the morning. 

Kastellet is a star-shaped military fortress built in the 17th century by King Christian IV to protect the city from invaders. The citadel, composed of 5 bastions and 2 gates, has an eventful story especially during WWII when the Germans took control of it.

After you’ve seen the red brick buildings, the windmill, and Saint Alban’s church, head to the famous Little Mermaid. You might be a bit disappointed by the statue as it isn’t very impressive, but a visit to Hans Christian Andersen’s character is a chance to get a breath of fresh air along the Øresund.

2. Amalienborg Palace

Walk along the canal for about 15 minutes in the direction of Amalienborg to see an iconic show of Copenhagen: the Changing of the Guard.

In case you didn’t know, Danemark is a constitutional monarchy so they have a royal family whose leader is currently Queen Margrethe II. Amalienborg is their winter residence, but the palace also houses a museum tracing the royal family’s history.

The changing of the guard takes place every day at 12 pm in the palace’s large square dominated by King Frederik V’s statue in its center. It lasts about an hour and the orchestra plays several pieces, but it isn’t necessary to watch the whole show.

3. Frederiks Kirke

From Amalienborg square, you’ll simply be caught by the view of this church. Situated just behind, Frederiks Kirke (or Marble Church) is impressive due to its dome, the largest in Scandinavia. 

Inspired by Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Frederiks Kirke was built in 1740 to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the first coronation of the House of Oldenburg. 

Inside, you’ll feel extremely tiny looking at the dome. It’s a very peaceful place for a short break.

4. Lunch at Nyhavn

Nyhavn is the old port and the postcard of Copenhagen. At only 10 min walk from the Marble Church, Nyhavn is
certainly the most Instagrammable place in the capital, so don’t hesitate to make a small photo session.

When it comes to food, you should avoid the restaurants along the canal as they are known to be quite pricey and of very average quality. However, you’ll find a lot of kiosks selling pølser, the Danish hot dog. Grab one and enjoy it sitting in front of the pastel-colored facades for a relaxing break.

5. Christiansborg Palace

From Nyhavn, take the bus line 26 or walk 12 min to Christiansborg Palace, another great monument of Copenhagen. 

Standing on Slotsholmen, a small island detached from the city, Christiansborg Palace hosts the Danish Parliament (Folketinget), the Minister of State, and the Supreme Court. Besides, some parts of the former main residence of the king, which was occupied until 1794, are still being used by the Danish royal family.

The palace is so large that it is possible to visit its main rooms individually. The Royal Receptions Rooms deserve a look, but above all, don’t miss climbing its tower to catch an unbeatable view of Copenhagen city.

6. Christiana Freetown

Christiania is a world-renowned district self-proclaimed as a “free city.” It’s located on the other side of the canal, about 15 min walk / 8 min bus line 2A from Christiansborg Palace.

The area was previously an abandoned military camp that was taken over by squatters and hippies in 1971, who established their own set of laws. Over the years, the community has attracted a diverse group of alternative people, and despite police attempts to clear the area, it has remained operational. Today, Christiania is a rare historical experiment in libertarianism that continues to thrive with government support.

You can explore the district by taking a walk or bike ride, checking out the small markets and artisanal stores, or strolling through the charming gardens. It’s a pleasant and unique neighborhood that stands out from the rest of the city center.

In Christiania, there are some restrictions on taking pictures. So pay attention to the signs allowing it or not.

7. Reffen Copenhagen Street Food

If you’re wondering where to eat in Copenhagen, look no further. Reffen is a famous spot for foodies, especially for those who love fast food. It’s situated in the industrial district of Refshaleøen, towards the north of the city, about 20 min by bus from Christiania using line 2A. 

This is a sprawling urban restaurant space that occupies almost 6,000 square meters, offering food from different parts of the world, as well as bars and concept stores. 

It’s an excellent way to end your day by trying out different foods from around the world and sipping on a tasty Danish beer while gazing at the lovely harbor of Copenhagen.

End of the 2-day Copenhagen itinerary!

But keep reading to get even more tips for your trip. 👇 

Other Things to See in Copenhagen

If you still have some time left after this itinerary or if you have extended your stay, then be sure to add these attractions to your list: 

• The Black Diamond: this beautiful black granite building houses the Royal Library of Copenhagen and is famous for its wonderful architecture;
• Church of our Saviour: this church is particularly famous for its gold and black spiral bell tower offering an exceptional view of Copenhagen;
• Canal Cruise: taking a boat tour through Copenhagen’s canals is a must to get a full glimpse of the city and its monuments;
• Statens Museum for Kunst: housed in a splendid building you can’t unsee, this is Denmark’s best art museum.

For more, check out this Copenhagen 3-day itinerary guide.

Statens Museum for Kunst

FAQ About Visiting Copenhagen in Two Days

Is 2 days enough in Copenhagen?

Although the city is not one of the largest European capitals in terms of size, it still offers enough activities and monuments to keep you busy for more than 2 days.

In my opinion, it’s best to spend 3 to 4 days in Copenhagen to discover all that it has to offer. However, even if you only have 2 days, I still suggest taking advantage of this short time to visit and get a glimpse of the city rather than completely skipping it. 2 days won’t be enough to discover Copenhagen fully, but it and can give you a taste of the city’s unique charm.

How to get to Copenhagen?

You have several options to choose from to get to Copenhagen depending on your departure town: 

• ✈️ Plane: if you’re traveling by air, you’ll land at Copenhagen Kastrup Airport, which provides easy access to the city center via subway line 2, taking just 15 min.
• 🚆 Train: if you’re traveling from other regions in Denmark or neighboring European cities such as Malmo in Sweden or Hamburg in Germany, taking the train is a convenient option as Copenhagen Central Station is situated in the city center.
• 🛳 Boat: Copenhagen offers 3 different terminals to dock at. After arriving, you can take subway line 4 or line 3 to reach the city center in approximately 40 minutes.

Is it worth visiting Copenhagen at Christmas?

Copenhagen at Christmas is enchanting and definitely worth experiencing with its dazzling lights, decorations, Christmas trees, and festive markets.

The city boasts several Christmas markets (the Julemarked) as well as several outdoor ice rinks to fall back in childhood. To fully immerse yourself in the Danish Christmas spirit, be sure not to miss the Tivoli Gardens, which is completely transformed for the season. Winter in Copenhagen offers a completely different face, somewhat like what we imagine of the Nordic countries.

Read more: Top European Destinations for Christmas

More Useful Readings to Travel Copenhagen

Find below several other posts about Copenhagen to help you prepare for your upcoming trip:

➡️ Spending more or less than 2 days in Copenhagen? Here are other itineraries tailored to the length of your stay:

• 24 hours in Copenhagen Itinerary
• 3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary
• 5 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

➡️ And here are other posts to better discover Copenhagen and beyond, along with travel tips:

• Best Things to Do in Copenhagen in Winter
• Best Places to Stay in Copenhagen
• Best Train Trips from Copenhagen
• Most Beautiful Copenhagen Castles
• Day Trip to Frederiksborg Slot
• Must-Eat Food in Copenhagen

I hope you enjoy your 2 day in Copenhagen trip; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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