13 things to know before going to Copenhagen: get a local's perspective

23.01.2024 - 19:56 / lonelyplanet.com

I was born and bred in Copenhagen, and have lived here for most of my life (apart from some years spent in Berlin and New York City). This is my home and I could navigate the city with my eyes closed.

Living abroad allowed me to reflect on Danish culture and what makes Copenhagen unique. For example, the widespread bike culture, which was part of my everyday life and something I considered to be completely normal until I lived elsewhere.

Before you go to Copenhagen, here are the 13 top things that you need to know.

Copenhagen’s efficient driverless metro runs directly from the airport to the city center in less than 15 minutes, making it the most obvious transportation choice when you arrive at Copenhagen Airport. A metro ticket will cost you 34kr. 

Copenhagen is a small city with short distances between the sights. Plan efficiently and you could get to know the Danish capital in just three days. However, if you want to explore Copenhagen in a more local and authentic way, you can easily spend more time in the area, visiting other nearby cities such as Helsingør for Kronborg Castle (Elsinore Castle in Shakespeare’s Hamlet) or the world-famous modern art museum, Louisiana in Humlebæk.

Scandinavia is known worldwide for its fashion. From giant names including H&M, &Other Stories and Cos, to the smaller but super-trendy brands such as Ganni, Samsøe Samsøe and Rains, there are many stores to choose from. Wear your Scandinavian fashion pieces to blend in with the locals. Also, make sure you bring weather-appropriate outfits, including a waterproof jacket.

Copenhagen isn't generally considered to be a cheap destination, but there are lots of different ways to visit the city on a budget. From touring museums and art centers to relaxing in gardens and wandering through cool neighborhoods, there are even things you can do that are completely free. 

Danes love their knife and fork and will eat everything with them, even a burger and a pizza, which can be quite amusing to foreigners. Feel free to use your hands if eating a burger with cutlery seems too awkward for you. When it comes to dining etiquette and table manners, Danes are taught from a young age to follow certain rules – like not putting your elbows on the table and the way to place the knife and fork to signal to waiting staff that they are done eating. 

While Nyhavn, with its colorful, fairy-tale houses, is one of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions, locals usually don't hang out here. However, paying Nyhavn a visit, taking a picture and enjoying the scenery is still a must. If you want to dedicate a little more time here, skip the touristy restaurants and have a coffee or beer while sitting on the side of the canals where the ships dock. You can also enjoy