A Guide To 48 Hours In Copenhagen
Although I write on this website quite often, I don’t think many of you, its readers, know much about me. And I’m fine with that. I’m here to tell many tales, but mine is the one I’ll save for last. However, in order for this guide to make even the tiniest bit of sense and for you to trust that I know what I’m talking about, I do have to share a small part of my story.
I, Ira, moved to Copenhagen approximately 4 months ago, in pursuit of happiness…and a Master’s degree. In the process of finding the first and struggling through the later, I decided to throw myself in the arms of the city, and explore it to the fullest. From cafes, to restaurants, to hipster art galleries and to world famous museums, I wanted to see them all. And see, I did. So in order to be able to justify the crazy amount of money I’ve spent over the last 4 months “exploring”, I decided to put it all in an article, and do both of us a favour. So, with our intro out of the way, here’s my guide to 48 hours in Copenhagen.
DAY 1
So you’ve landed in Copenhagen, found your way from the airport to the city centre and dropped off your luggage at your insanely expensive Airbnb. What now?
A city famous for its design, architecture, biking culture and impeccable fashion, among others, Copenhagen definitely has a lot to offer. And your time is limited, so you’d better grab your coat and run. You want to explore as much as you can, and luckily the city is small enough for you to be able to do so.
First stop: a bike shop. There is no better way to explore Copenhagen than on a bike. The city is designed to be biked through, and as long as you own a beige trench and a pair of New Balance 990s you’ll blend in like a local. Once you have your bike, you’re ready to begin your journey of discovering Denmark’s capital. You can start by heading towards Nørrebro, and taking a moment to stop at the lakes to enjoy one of the city’s most beautiful spots. If the weather is nice, you can grab breakfast at Kaffesalonen (Peblinge Dossering 7, 2200 København). The 1930s cafe offers great breakfast/brunch selection, and during sunny days you can enjoy it on its lakeside decks.
However, if the weather is not on your side this time, there is no need to worry, because I have come prepared with two more sports to suggest. Ipsen&Co (Gl. Kongevej 108, 1850 Frederiksberg) is a cosy café at Frederiksberg with a beautiful interior that is famous for its great coffee and its morgen plate. If you go there, you definitely have to try it. your other option is Granola (Værnedamsvej 5, 1819 Frederiksberg), a spot famous for its big variety of plates among which some very delicious pancakes and a big variety of egg-based specialties.
From there, you can head towards Vesterbro to explore the meat-packing area and its beautiful galleries. V1 Gallery (Flæsketorvet 69, 1711 København) is definitely worth a visit, as its impeccable curation and impressive selection of both established and upcoming artists never fail to impress.
V1 Gallery Via v1gallery.com
If you’re still full of energy and want to see and learn even more about the city, try squeezing in a 1-hour boat tour in your schedule. You might be wondering why I’m suggesting some touristy, overpriced boat tour to you, but trust me, it’s worth it. In that one hour you'll see more of the city than your bike or feet or metro card would ever allow you to, and learn more about it than any article like this one will ever teach you.
Once you start getting tired, it’s time to grab a bite! To do that however, you want to escape the city centre and head to Refshaleøen! The former industrial district has become one of Copenhagen’s most hip areas and a creative hub that is home to some of the most innovative startups and architectural projects. Your lunch spot? Lille Bakery (Refshalevej 213A, 1432 København). The cafe and bakery is located inside an industrial building, and has the most cozy decor; minimalist yet warm and inviting. And no need to mention its fantastic bread, food and baked goods; give them a try and they’ll speak for themselves.
Lille Baker via Politiken
By now you’re probably both tired and full, but I have one more spot for you before you head home to take a break: Copenhagen Contemporary (Refshalevej 173A, København K, Copenhagen). Formerly located at Copenhagen’s famous Paper Island, the museum moved locations when it closed, and found itself a new home at Refshaleøen. CC describes itself as “an international centre for contemporary art and cultural experiences”, and there you will find some of the most stunning large-scale art & avant-garde installations.
Copenhagen Contemporary Via copenhagencontemporary.org
Once you’re done from the museum and need to relax, you can take a break at the hotel or you can stop at La Banchina (Refshalevej 141, 1432 København) for a glass of wine by the water. If you're visiting during summer, La Banchina is the place to be; crowded, alive and close to the water, it’s one of the city’s most popular summer spots, and for good reasons. However, the spot maintains its fantastic, hygge atmosphere during the colder days as well, and can be ideal for a relaxing afternoon with a glass of wine and a book.
Sooner than later, dinnertime will come around and you’d better be prepared to make your way to one of my favourite spots, Apollo Bar (Nyhavn 2, 1051 København), located on the city’s most famous spot: Nyhavn. The world famous canal is the city’s landmark, and if you have ever typed “Copenhagen” on google, you have most definitely seen it. Well now, it’s time to dine there. Apollo Bar & Canteen are Kunsthal Charlottenborg’s bar and dining place by chef Frederik Bille Brahe. There you can enjoy delicious meals made out of simple, yet fresh and well-thought out ingredients at all times.
Apollo Bar via Remodelista
DAY 2
It’s day 2, you’ve woken up, stretched your sore legs and put on your warm coat. It sounds to me like it’s time to go grab breakfast. And what place could be better for that than Atelier September (Gothersgade 30, 1123 København). The beautifully decorated cafe is, just like Apollo Bar, is owned by Frederik Bille Brahe, and is known for combining delicious food with a warm, pleasant atmosphere.
Another option to consider is the very cozy The Corner 108 (Strandgade 108, 1401 København). Located very close to the centre, and only a few steps away from Copenhagen’s Christianshavn, the little brother of the world-famous Noma is definitely worth a visit. Its fantastic pastries, delicious porridge and tasty warm drinks will certainly not disappoint.
Atelier September by Toby Mitchell
Whatever you do, however, don’t make your breakfast long though, because after that you’ll have to grab a train and head to the one and only, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (Gl Strandvej 13, 3050 Humlebæk), where you’ll also be lunching. The most visited art museum in Denmark, Louisiana has an extensive permanent collection of modern and contemporary art as well as a comprehensive programme of special exhibitions. The museum is also acknowledged as a milestone in modern Danish architecture, and is noted for its synthesis of art, architecture, and landscape. (You can purchase a combined train and exhibition ticket here)
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art via Pinterest