Hej! I’m a 21-year-old Copenhagen native, and if you’re thinking of visiting this beautiful city—whether solo or with friends—you’re in for a treat. I’ve spent most of my life exploring every cozy café, buzzing bar, and hidden gem Copenhagen has to offer. So this isn’t just another travel blog—this is your insider guide from someone who actually lives here and loves it.
Whether you’re here for the food, the design, or the vibes (all three, ideally), here’s everything you need to know before you book your trip.
Is Copenhagen expensive?
Let’s be real—yes, Copenhagen can be pricey. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it on a budget. Think of it like this: we don’t do cheap, but we do quality.
Here are a few tips:
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- Public transport is super efficient, and bikes are king here—grab a city bike or rent one for the day.
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- You can enjoy world-class street food at places like Reffen or Broens Gadekøkken for under €15.
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- Tap water is free (and delicious), and many museums have free admission on certain days.
Travel tip: Book your accommodation and tours early—especially in summer. I recommend checking booking.com for deals on central hostels and boutique hotels.
When’s the best time to visit Copenhagen?
May to September is the golden window. Think sunny days by the canals, outdoor concerts, and long Scandinavian evenings where the sun sets around 10 pm.
If you want the full “hygge” experience, come in December. Christmas markets, fairy lights, and hot gløgg (Danish mulled wine) make winter magical here.
Avoid February unless you love cold rain and wind. Just saying.
Copenhagen’s nightlife – best clubs and where to go out
Copenhagen might look chill and minimal during the day, but at night? Totally different story.
If you’re into dancing and staying out late, these are some of my personal favourite clubs:
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- ARCH – Upscale, flashy, and fun. Dress nice, expect a line, and get ready to dance all night.
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- Museo – A bit artsy, very cool. Great crowd and always a vibe.
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- Søpavillonen – Right by the lakes. Day or night, this place has energy.
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- Sigurdsgade – More lowkey, but one of those places everyone ends up at after 2am.
If you’re looking for more of a bar-hopping vibe, head to Kødbyen (the Meatpacking District). It’s packed with industrial-style bars and casual clubs. You’ll find everything from cheap beer spots to cocktail lounges—and it gets crowded, especially on weekends. Some of my favourites there are NOHO for stylish drinks, Jolene Bar for a grungier vibe, and Bak if you’re into more underground music. I also love PS bar, which is located both in Indre by, and Østerbro.
There are also tons of great bars in Nørrebro and Indre By if you want something more cozy or casual.
Most people pre-drink at home (alcohol is expensive out), and head out around midnight. Don’t expect the clubs to really get going before 1am. Or you can go to BAR9. A new concept close to all the clubs, with very cheap drinks, shots and beer.
Where to get the best danish pastries (no, they’re not called danishes)
We call them wienerbrød, and they are everything.
My absolute favorites:
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- Sankt Peders Bageri – Copenhagen’s oldest bakery. Go on a Wednesday for Onsdagssnegl (giant cinnamon rolls).
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- Andersen & Maillard – Amazing coffee and seriously good pastries. The croissants are on another level.
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- Hart Bageri – Yes, it’s on every Instagram, but it lives up to the hype.
Order a warm kanelsnegl (cinnamon snail) and a black coffee and you’ll understand what Danish mornings are all about.
Where to stay in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is super walkable, so you don’t need to stress about where you stay too much. That said, here are my favorite areas:
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- Vesterbro – Trendy, young, and full of cool bars and cafés.
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- Nørrebro – Multicultural, vibrant, and great for budget stays.
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- Indre By – Right in the center, perfect for first-timers.
Recommended spots to stay:
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- Steel House Copenhagen – A luxury hostel with a pool and gym. Super social, great for solo travellers.
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- Hotel SP34 – Boutique and stylish, in the heart of the Latin Quarter.
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- Next House Copenhagen – Modern, central, and affordable. Great design, even better prices. Check availability here.
What to do in Copenhagen (according to a local)
Yes, you should see the Little Mermaid and Nyhavn—but there’s so much more than just the tourist hits.
Must-sees:
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- Nyhavn – It’s busy, but beautiful. Grab an ice cream or a drink by the canal.
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- Tivoli Gardens – Pure magic, especially after dark when all the lights come on.
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- Christianshavn & Christiania – Chill and alternative. Very Copenhagen.
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- Rosenborg Castle – Surrounded by one of the prettiest parks in the city.
Hidden gems:
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- The Cisterns (Cisternerne) – An underground art space in an old reservoir. Super atmospheric.
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- La Banchina – A dockside café with a wood-fired sauna and cold water swimming.
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- Assistens Cemetery – It sounds weird, but it’s actually a peaceful park where locals hang out—and where H.C. Andersen is buried.
If you want to see the city like a local, rent a bike or join a guided bike tour. It’s the best way to cover ground while soaking in the vibes.
Is Copenhagen good for solo travellers?
One word: yes.
Copenhagen is one of the safest, cleanest, and easiest cities to explore alone. People might not start conversations with you right away (we’re shy like that), but they’re helpful and kind if you ask for anything.
There are also plenty of places to meet people:
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- Social hostels like Steel House or Urban House
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- Co-working cafés
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- Group tours or cooking classes
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- Bars in Kødbyen or events in Nørrebro
Whether you’re wandering around the lakes with a coffee or grabbing a drink solo at a cozy bar, you’ll feel totally comfortable.
My final thoughts
Copenhagen is a mix of cozy and cool. It’s a city of details—the smell of fresh pastries in the morning, soft lighting in every restaurant, music in the streets, bikes everywhere, and people who care deeply about both design and nature.
Once you’ve sat by the canals with your feet dangling over the water, or danced till sunrise in a club by the lakes, you’ll get it.
Get your flight to Copenhagen here. Copenhagen is waiting for you 
