How to spend 48 hours in Copenhagen

20 March 2026

Denmark’s capital is a city that’s easy to settle into quickly. Much of the centre can be explored on foot, the harbour is never far away, and the food and bar scene makes it easy to plan your day around where to eat next. In two days, you can cover the highlights while still leaving time to enjoy the restaurants, bars, and local experiences that make the city such a good choice for a short break.

Day one: A relaxed morning by the harbour

Start near the harbour at Nyhavn, where colourful buildings line the canal and cafés open early for coffee and breakfast. It’s a great place to begin the day slowly before the crowds build. From here, follow the waterfront towards the royal quarter around Amalienborg Palace. Our Travel Counsellors recommend taking this walk in the morning, when the harbour is quieter, and the city feels at its most relaxed. The route takes you past elegant squares and wide streets before opening up to the palace complex.

Day one: Food markets, canals, and a lively evening

For lunch, head to Torvehallerne, the covered food market close to Nørreport Station. Inside, you’ll find dozens of stalls selling everything from Danish smørrebrød to fresh pastries and coffee. It’s the perfect place to try local food in a casual setting. In the afternoon, take a canal boat tour from the harbour to see the city from the water. As evening arrives, return towards Nyhavn where the restaurants and bars along the waterfront are an easy option for dinner and a relaxed drink.

Day two: Morning coffee, bakeries, and city parks

Begin your second day around Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, lined with cafés, bakeries, and boutiques. It’s ideal for an easy start to the morning before continuing towards Rosenborg Castle and the surrounding King’s Garden. The park is a favourite local meeting spot and a good place to pause with a coffee. Our Travel Counsellors rate it as one of the best areas where you can just sit and watch everyday life in the city unfold.

Day two: Canals, viewpoints, and street food

In the afternoon, cross the canal into Christianshavn, an area known for its waterways, cobbled streets, and old merchant buildings. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the spiral tower of the Church of Our Saviour for a view across the city and harbour. For the final evening, make your way to Reffen Street Food on the waterfront. It’s a great place to spend a relaxed evening, with food stalls serving dishes from around the world and plenty of outdoor seating by the water.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

For a central base, there are several hotels that work well for a short city break. Villa Copenhagen is a standout option set in a restored post office building, with stylish interiors and a rooftop pool overlooking the city. Andersen Boutique Hotel is another great choice close to the central station and Tivoli Gardens, known for its colourful design and relaxed atmosphere. If you prefer to stay close to the harbour, Copenhagen Admiral Hotel sits in a historic waterfront warehouse within easy walking distance of Nyhavn and the royal palaces.

To book your next 48-hour getaway to Copenhagen, get in touch with your Travel Counsellor today.

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