Practical tips for visiting Copenhagen
Airport
Copenhagen Airport (CPH) in Kastrup is only 8 kilometres from the centre. The metro M2 line runs 24 hours to Kongens Nytorv and Nørreport in about 15 minutes, and trains go to Central Station in 13 minutes. Taxis cost around 300 to 350 DKK.
Getting around
Copenhagen has an automated driverless metro running 24 hours, plus S-trains, buses and harbour buses. Tickets cover zones; the airport and city centre are within zones 1 to 3. Use the DOT Tickets app or a Rejsekort card. The Copenhagen Card includes transport and entry to more than 80 attractions. Biking is the best way to get around; rent from a shop or use Bycyklen or Donkey Republic bikes. Follow local cycling rules: signal stops and turns, stay on the right and do not ride on pavements.
Best time to visit
May to August brings long days, with the sun setting around 22:00 in June, and outdoor life at its peak; temperatures are typically 18 to 22°C. September is pleasant. Winters are cold, dark and windy, with temperatures around 0 to 4°C and just 7 hours of daylight in December, but Tivoli's Christmas market and cosy cafés make it hyggeligt. Distortion street party in early June and the Copenhagen Jazz Festival in July are highlights.
Budget
Copenhagen is expensive. Hostel beds cost 250 to 450 DKK, mid-range doubles 1,200 to 2,000 DKK and luxury hotels more than 3,000 DKK. A coffee costs 40 to 50 DKK, a beer 60 to 75 DKK, smørrebrød 80 to 150 DKK per piece in a restaurant, and a hot dog around 40 DKK. Free activities include walking, harbour swimming, the Christiansborg Tower and many parks.
Currency
Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK), pegged to the euro at around 7.46 DKK. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, and many places are cashless. Euros are not commonly accepted.
Tipping
Service is included in prices, and Danish staff earn good wages, so tipping is not expected; rounding up for great service is appreciated.
Safety
Copenhagen is very safe. The main risk is cycling accidents, so take care, and pickpockets at Central Station and Strøget. Be cautious in Christiania at night.
Customs and etiquette
Danes value punctuality, equality and personal space. Queue numbers are used in pharmacies and bakeries. Shops open roughly 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays, shorter hours on Saturdays, and many are closed on Sundays, though supermarkets often open. Dinners are early, often 18:00 to 20:00.
Language
Danish is the official language, but almost everyone speaks excellent English. "Tak" means thank you, and "hej" means hello.
Copenhagen Card
The Copenhagen Card includes free entry to more than 80 museums and attractions, such as Tivoli, Rosenborg and the National Museum, plus unlimited public transport in the capital region, including to and from the airport. It is worthwhile if you plan to visit several paid attractions each day.
Cycling rules
Copenhagen has more bikes than cars. Ride on the right in the cycle lane, signal with your hand before turning or stopping, and use lights after dark, as police issue fines. Left turns at major junctions are made in two stages: cross straight, stop on the far corner, then cross again. Never walk in the cycle lane.
Weather and daylight
Copenhagen has a maritime climate. Summers are mild with highs around 20 to 22°C, and days are long. Winters are grey, windy and around freezing, with just seven hours of daylight in December. Rain is possible all year, so pack a waterproof layer.
Food costs and saving money
Eating out is expensive, but there are ways to save. Lunch offers, street food halls such as Reffen, bakeries and supermarket picnics help. Smørrebrød, open sandwiches on rye bread, are a good-value traditional lunch. Tap water is free and excellent.
Opening hours
Shops usually open from 10:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and close earlier on Saturdays. Many are open on Sundays in the centre. Museums often close on Mondays; check before visiting.
Hygge
The Danish concept of hygge, a cosy, convivial atmosphere, is felt in candlelit cafés and homes, especially in winter. Embrace it by lingering over coffee and pastries.
From the airport
Copenhagen Airport is about 8 kilometres from the centre. Metro line M2 reaches Kongens Nytorv in about 15 minutes, running around the clock, and regional trains go to Copenhagen Central Station in about 13 minutes. A taxi costs about 300 Danish kroner.
Card payments
Denmark is nearly cashless. Some shops and cafés refuse cash, and foreign cards may incur a small surcharge.
Cycling rules
Signal with your hand before stopping or turning, and use lights after dark; police issue fines.
Emergencies
Dial 112. Tap water is excellent and safe to drink.
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