5 Days in Copenhagen: The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary (2026)

By Flavia Voican, 360 Business Tour · Updated April 2026

Day 1-2: Highlights

Start with a walk along Nyhavn, the colorful waterfront filled with restaurants, cafes, and historic buildings. You can take a canal tour for €18.50, which departs every 30 minutes from the Nyhavn landing. Visit the Christiansborg Palace, home to the Danish Parliament, open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM with free entry to the palace grounds.

Day 3: Culture

Explore the National Museum of Denmark to learn about Danish history and culture. Admission is €16 for adults, open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Later, visit the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art just outside Copenhagen for a peaceful day in the arts, with €20 entry and opening hours from 10 AM to 6 PM daily in summer.

Day 4: Local Food & Neighbourhoods

Dine at Noma, one of the world's top restaurants (€350/person for the set menu, reservations required). After lunch, wander through the hipster district of Vesterbro, known for its street art, vintage shops, and cozy cafés like Cafe Norden.

Day 5: Day Trip & Departure

Take a day trip to the island of Amager, home to CopenHill, a unique waste-to-energy plant with a rooftop ski slope. The ferry to Amager costs €8 and runs every 20 minutes from the central harbor. Return to Copenhagen in the late afternoon to enjoy your final meal at Hønhuset, a local favorite with a €15-20/person set menu.

Practical Tips & Budget

Most attractions and public transport can be covered with the Copenhagen Card, available from €60 for 24 hours and up to €120 for 72 hours. Pack comfortable shoes for walking, and bring a reusable coffee cup to save money at local cafés, as many offer discounts for refills.

• Budget: €60-90/day budget, €120-180/day mid-range
• Transport: Public transport via metro, buses, or cycling with a Bycyklen bike rental
• Best area to stay: Indre By for central access to major sights and amenities