8 Things to Do in Copenhagen: A Solo Female Traveler’s Copenhagen Adventure Guide
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As someone who has been travelling, basically their entire life (I am just going to say over 40 years and leave it at that) and who has been to nearly 50 countries, I can honestly say that there is something super unique and exciting about visiting Copenhagen. I remember stepping off the plane (which was like 12 hours delayed), and just instantly being incredibly excited to be there. There are so many things to do in Copenhagen, and as a solo female traveler, I wanted to experience it all! From bike rides, to the pastries, to canal tours, I was ready to dive into everything. So, if you are planning your trip to Copenhagen (and I would love to help you), and are looking for all of the best things to do, then this guide is for you!
Introduction: Things to do in Copenhagen
In my opinion, Copenhagen is one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Between the canals, the colorful buildings, the restaurants, it feels like the perfect blend between Amsterdam and Venice. Whether this is your first time to Copenhagen or your fifth, the city will welcome you back with open arms.
In this guide, I will be revealing all of the amazing things to do in Copenhagen that I could honestly do every time that I visit. These things are what made me fall in love with this incredible city, and I hope they do the same for you. Let’s get into it!
1. Nyhavn Waterfront
The Nyhavn Waterfront, in my opinion, should be the start of your trip when visiting Amsterdam. This is where you see those iconic colorful buildings with the water in the front. This is also where I feel the Amsterdam kind of vibe. Except with a lot less bikes!
Between the colorful houses, the canals, the bakeries, and the people, there is something super picturesque about exploring this area, and exploring it first. For me, it’s like the hub of Copenhagen, with so many fun things to see and do. I love grabbing coffee, and walking around, and having a canal-side leisurely lunch. Honestly, the perfect way to start your trip to Copenhagen.
2. The Little Mermaid Statue & Royal Sights
The next iconic spot in Copenhagen that I would say is an absolute visit is The Little Mermaid Statue. I wasn’t aware of this when I visited, but this statue is a landmark inspired by Hans Christian Answersen’s famous fairytale.
Since this statue is a bit of a walking distance from the main part of the city, after you visit, explore Amalienborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle, and check out Denmar’s crown jewels. I am not sure which jewels I think are best, London or Denmark, but I would love to hear your thoughts!
3. Copenhagen Canal Cruise
There are three amazing destinations to take canal cruises in: Venice, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. A Copenhagen canal cruise is probably one of the most booked excursions in the city, and honestly, it was one of my favorites. There is something about views and perspectives from the water that gives you a different viewpoint and experience that you won’t get exploring on foot only.
Depending on the canal cruise tour that you do, you’ll float by the Little Mermaid status, the Palace, Christianshavn quarters, and learn a lot of information about Copenhagen that you may not have known.
Now, depending on what you want to see and do, there are a lot of excursions that you can combine. One of which is combining the Copenhagen cancel tour with the Tivoli Gardens, which I also highly recommend that you visit.
4. Tivoli Gardens
Now, I have to say, one of the prettiest gardens that I have ever visited has to be Tivoli Gardens. It’s incredible to believe that this park opened in the mid-1800’s, and had the perfect mix of fun rides, shows, and incredible gardens that you can literally get lost in.
During my visit I didn’t go on any of the rides, but I slowly wandered through the beautiful and lush gardens, and really just took a moment to let it all soak in. There is something relaxing and just Zen about being in these gardens, especially in the summer.
Pro Tip: Tivoli Gardens is busy, and tickets tend to book up, so I recommend booking ahead to ensure you can get in.
5. Guided City Tours & Bike Explorations
For me, one of my favorite ways to explore a city is by foot and/or bike. I feel like walking and bike tours just give you a good intro into the city, where you want to explore more, and if you are on bike, hitting some areas you may have missed otherwise.
Bike and walking tours are usually tours I do immediately, because then I can go back and visit things, and it gives me some good ideas on where I want to explore more, and I usually get some amazing restaurant and cafe recs that I can then add to my itinerary.
I am also a history and architecture buff, so there is something about the additional commentary that I get on these tours, that just enhances my experience. I can walk around and admire things, but I like to hear the story behind it, and a bike and/or walking tour, gives you that added commentary that just compliments your experience.
Pro Tip: If you are looking for a mix of land and water, hop-on hop-off bus and boat tours give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace while also enjoying narrated insights
6. Church of Our Saviour in Christianshavn
I think one of my most humbling moments while in Copenhagen was when I was climbing the steps of the Church of Our Savior in Christianshavn. I think the best part of this experience was the incredible panoramic views you have overlooking the city, the canals, basically all of Copenhagen. The climb may have felt tiring and the struggle was real, but once I saw these views, it was 10000% worth the climb!
7. Opera, Art & Hidden Museums
If you are a fan of the arts like I am, then you will absolutely want to add the Copenhagen Opera House and the Royal Danish Naval Museum to your list of things to do in Copenhagen list.
The opera house is probably one of the most iconic landmarks in Copenhagen and you see it perfectly from the waterfront. If you are visiting while there is a performance, make sure you find time and see a performance while you are there.
he Danish Naval Museum is probably one of the quieter and less touristy of all of the museums in Copenhagen, but it’s a great opportunity to explore and dive into Denmark’s maritime heritage.
Now, if you are an animal lover, then this one is for you. Visiting the Copenhagen Zoo is probably one of Europe’s most famous zoos. They seem to always have a rare animal exhibit and the grounds are impeccable. A great spot to visit for families and if you need a break from the busy city.
8. Taste the City: Markets, Cafés & Seasonal Fun
Of course, with every city that I travel to, I love eating my way through that city. Trying the coffees, and pastries, and signature dishes are all a part of immersing myself in the culture of that country.
One of my favorites in Copenhagen was the Torvehallerne Market, which was a great spot for sampling various pastries, seafood options, you name it, they have it. I went here for brunch and had the most amazing Danish classic open-faced sandwich that I’ve ever had.
This is a great spot for relaxing dinners and is super safe to explore and sample independently as a solo female traveler.
Solo Traveler Tips for Copenhagen
Copenhagen felt especially comfortable as a solo female traveler. The city is consistently ranked one of the safest in Europe, and I found public transit to be efficient, English widely spoken, and locals to be helpful and respectful. Still, like any city, walk confidently, keep your belongings secure in crowded areas (like any outdoor market), and plan your routes to avoid long dark transit waits at night.
Copenhagen’s bike culture can feel intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, renting a bike is one of the best ways to cover ground and feel like a local. (Just remember to follow bike lane etiquette, as the Danes take it seriously!)
Conclusion: Things to do in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is probably one of my favorite cities that I have traveled to. From the iconic must-see attractions to the people, to the food, and everything in between, no matter how many times I visit, there are always so many things to do in Copenhagen. I hope this guide has helped you develop your Copenhagen itinerary, and that you’ve discovered some amazing new things to see on your trip. Safe travels and reach out if you need help planning your dream trip.