24 Hours In Copenhagen: Tips by a Local (2025)
Make the most of 24 hours in Copenhagen with this local's guide! Walkable attractions, budget tips, and stunning photo locations all covered.
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My top photo spots for 24 hours in Copenhagen.
Left: The courtyard at Apollo Bar | Middle: Views from Opera Park and the Royal Opera House | Right: The King’s Garden (Kongens Have)
Got 24 hours in Copenhagen? Perfect! You've picked one of the most walkable cities in Europe, and trust me, you can see so much in just a couple of hours.
As someone who's been living in Copenhagen for the past 5 years and is a frequent traveller – and as a local wedding photographer who's captured countless couples at these very spots – I can tell you that this city has a unique charm that grows on you. I've already created an ultimate list of activities in my previous post, but today I'm sharing my insider recommendations for making the most of your day here, including the most photogenic locations that work beautifully for any occasion!
Let's be honest – Nordic capitals tend to be on the more expensive side and can feel a bit "boring" compared to other European destinations. But Copenhagen has this cosy atmosphere and stunning architecture that makes it totally worth the visit!
Money-Saving Tips for Copenhagen
Before we dive into what to see, here are my insider tips to save money during your Copenhagen adventure.
DOT App for Transport
Download the DOT app to save on transport costs throughout the city. Trust me, Uber is definitely not required here! Copenhagen's public transport system is efficient and affordable for tourists.
Fine Dining on a Budget
Interested in having a fine dining experience without breaking the bank? Visit my previous blog post where I shared tips & tricks that can save you sometimes 50% of your full cost – perfect for treating yourself to memorable meals!
Take Advantage of Free Museum Days
Some museums have free admission days that can save you money. For example, Glyptotek offers free entry on certain days, so if that aligns with your travel dates, it's definitely worth checking out for art lovers!
Special Discounts for Youth
Under 27? We have free museum days during certain times in September – check K7 if you're planning your visit during that time! It's a fantastic way to explore Copenhagen's cultural scene affordably.
What to See and Do in Copenhagen in One Day
Magstraede
Walk through the famous Magstraede – one of Copenhagen's oldest streets with incredible cobblestone charm. It's perfect for authentic street photography and capturing the historic essence of the city.
Christiansborg Tower
Take a look at the city from above at Christiansborg Tower. The panoramic views are breathtaking, especially during golden hour, and it's completely free! Pro tip from a photographer: this is one of the best spots to capture the full scope of Copenhagen's unique architecture.
King's Garden (Kongens Have)
Explore King's Garden for a peaceful green space in the heart of the city. It's perfect for natural, relaxed photos and offers a beautiful contrast to the urban architecture.
Amalienborg Palace
Don't miss Amalienborg Palace – if you time it right, you can catch the changing of the guard ceremony, which makes for incredible candid moments. The palace square provides a stunning royal backdrop for photos.
Nyhavn
Visit the iconic Nyhavn with its colorful buildings. As a photographer who's shot here countless times, I can tell you that this spot is absolutely stunning during golden hour – the warm light reflects beautifully off the colourful facades! This is probably Copenhagen's most photographed location, and for good reason.
Opera Park
Enjoy a coffee or lunch at Vaeksthuset in the Opera Park – the views are absolutely stunning and it's one of my favourite hidden gems for capturing authentic moments. The backdrop is sophisticated and uniquely Copenhagen!
Reffen Street Food Market
Head to Reffen for a street food feast – it's a much more interesting activity than the touristy street food market near Nyhavn. You can take a public yellow boat from Nyhavn port, which is an experience in itself! The industrial-chic setting provides a completely different vibe for photos.
Things I Wouldn't Visit on a 24-Hour Visit
As a local, I feel obligated to save you from tourist traps when your time is limited
Skip These Overrated Spots
The Little Mermaid Statue - It's tiny and honestly not worth the trek when you have limited time
Copenhill Skiing Slope - Not as scenic as advertised, and there are better viewpoints throughout the city
Tivoli Gardens - Just an amusement park – save your money for authentic Copenhagen experiences instead
Have More Than 24 Hours in Copenhagen?
Louisiana Museum of Art
A world-class museum with a stunning seaside location that's perfect for art lovers. The combination of incredible exhibitions and coastal views makes this destination absolutely worth the short (approx. 40 minutes) journey outside the city.
Rent a Bike for City Exploration
Rent a bike to ride around town or to the seaside like Amager Beach for a relaxing afternoon! Cycling is the most authentic way to experience Copenhagen like a true local resident. Check Donkey Republic or Lime
Carlsberg Byen City District
The trendy former brewery district offers modern architecture and hip dining scene. This area perfectly showcases Copenhagen's transformation from industrial past to contemporary cultural hub that's worth exploring.
Christiania Free Town
The famous freetown provides a fascinating cultural experience unlike anywhere else in Europe. This unique autonomous neighborhood offers an alternative perspective on Danish society and counterculture that's absolutely fascinating.
Photography Session with a Local
Want to capture your Copenhagen moments with a local photographer? Take a look at my Copenhagen photography services for travellers looking to preserve these precious memories with stunning professional photos.
Copenhagen Travel: Real Stories
Want to see how other travellers experienced Copenhagen? Click on the pictures below to read some beautiful stories and see the galleries.
Final Thoughts
Copenhagen might be expensive and sometimes feel "boring" compared to other European capitals, but there's something magical about this city. The walkable distances, cosy atmosphere, and stunning architecture create the perfect backdrop for exploration and incredible photos!
With these insider tips and carefully curated recommendations, you'll experience the best of Copenhagen without the tourist crowds or hefty price tags. Trust me – after 5 years of living here and photographing countless visitors, this is exactly how I'd show the city to my best friends!
FAQ
Is 24 hours really enough to see Copenhagen?
Absolutely! Copenhagen is incredibly walkable, and you can cover all the main highlights in a day. As someone who's lived here for 5 years, I've seen countless visitors fall in love with the city in just a few hours. The compact city center means you can easily walk between major attractions without wasting time on long commutes.
What's the best time of day to visit Nyhavn for photos?
Golden hour is magical at Nyhavn! I recommend visiting about 1-2 hours before sunset when the warm light hits those colorful facades perfectly. As a local photographer, I've shot there hundreds of times, and this lighting consistently delivers the most stunning results. Early morning (around 8-9 AM) is also beautiful and much less crowded.
How much should I budget for a day in Copenhagen?
Copenhagen can be expensive, but with my money-saving tips, you can enjoy a great day for around 500-800 DKK ($75-120 USD). This includes public transport, a few meals, and some attractions. Use the DOT app for transport, take advantage of free museum days, and eat at Reffen street food market to keep costs down while still having an authentic experience. Of course, this price doesn’t include accomodation.
Is it worth visiting Copenhagen in winter?
Winter in Copenhagen has its charm with cosy cafes and beautiful Christmas markets. If I were you, I would consider visiting the city at the end of November and early December.
about the author:
i'm ieva vi - a wedding & lifestyle photographer, based in copenhagen. When I'm not behind the lens capturing beautiful moments, I love to explore new places and share my experiences with readers. Take a look at my portfolio, and feel free to reach out for collaborations.
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