Hey there, welcome to Copenhagen! As a resident of this beautiful city, I know firsthand that there are plenty of non-touristy things to do here. Whether you’re a local or a traveler looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, I’ve got you covered.
Here are some of my favorite things to do in Copenhagen that you won’t find in most guidebooks:
Explore the lesser-known neighborhoods
While many tourists flock to popular areas like Nyhavn and Strøget, there are plenty of lesser-known neighborhoods in Copenhagen that are worth exploring. Some of my favorites include:
- Vesterbro: This hip neighborhood is known for its trendy bars, vintage shops, and street art.
- Nørrebro: A multicultural neighborhood with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and independent boutiques.
- Islands Brygge: A waterfront neighborhood that’s great for a relaxing walk or picnic.
Visit the city’s hidden gems
Copenhagen is full of hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. Here are a few that are definitely worth a visit:
- Assistens Cemetery: This may seem like an odd suggestion, but Assistens Cemetery is actually a beautiful park that’s perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic. It’s also the final resting place of famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard.
- The Round Tower: This 17th-century tower offers panoramic views of the city and is a great spot for a photo op.
- The Cisterns: This underground art museum is located in a former water reservoir and features contemporary art exhibitions.
Take a bike tour
Copenhagen is known for being a bike-friendly city, and taking a bike tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
There are plenty of bike rental shops around the city, and many offer guided tours that will take you to some of Copenhagen’s lesser-known attractions.
Check out the local food scene
Copenhagen is a foodie’s paradise, and there are plenty of non-touristy restaurants and cafes to check out. Some of my favorites include:
- Kebabistan: This small kebab shop in Nørrebro is a local favorite, and for good reason. The kebabs are delicious and affordable.
- Mikkeller & Friends: This craft beer bar in Vesterbro offers a rotating selection of local and international brews.
- Grød: This porridge cafe has several locations around the city and offers a variety of sweet and savory porridge dishes.
Experience the city’s nightlife
Copenhagen has a vibrant nightlife scene, but it can be overwhelming for tourists. Here are a few non-touristy spots to check out:
- Lidkoeb: This cocktail bar in Vesterbro is located in a former pharmacy and offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
- Jolene: This nightclub in Nørrebro is a local favorite and plays a mix of indie and electronic music.
- Pumpehuset: This music venue in the Meatpacking District hosts a variety of concerts and events, from indie rock to hip hop.
Useful Tips for Visitors to Copenhagen
- Buy a Copenhagen Card: The Copenhagen Card offers free admission to many of the city’s top attractions, as well as free public transportation. It’s a great way to save money and make the most of your time in the city.
- Bring comfortable shoes: Copenhagen is a great city for walking and biking, but the cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes for exploring the city.
- Use public transportation: Copenhagen has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and the metro. It’s a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
- Embrace the bike culture: Copenhagen is known for being a bike-friendly city, and biking is a great way to explore the city like a local. There are plenty of bike rental shops around the city, and many hotels offer bikes for their guests.
- Try the local food: Copenhagen is a foodie’s paradise, and there are plenty of delicious local dishes to try. Make sure to try smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), Danish pastries, and of course, plenty of seafood.
- Dress for the weather: Copenhagen can be unpredictable when it comes to weather, so make sure to check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly. Layers are always a good idea.
- Be mindful of the bike lanes: Copenhagen’s bike lanes are a vital part of the city’s transportation infrastructure, so make sure to be mindful of them when you’re walking around the city.
- Visit the lesser-known attractions: While Copenhagen has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems that are worth exploring. Make sure to check out some of the lesser-known museums, parks, and neighborhoods for a more authentic Copenhagen experience.
- Learn a few Danish phrases: While many Danes speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak a few phrases of Danish. “Tak” (thank you) and “undskyld” (excuse me) are good ones to start with.
- Have fun and relax: Copenhagen is a beautiful and laid-back city, so make sure to take the time to relax and enjoy your visit. Whether you’re exploring the city’s many attractions or simply sitting in a park and people-watching, remember to have fun and enjoy the moment.
In conclusion, Copenhagen has plenty of non-touristy things to do, from exploring lesser-known neighborhoods to checking out hidden gems and experiencing the city’s food and nightlife scenes. So why not try something new and see a different side of this amazing city?
For more texts about capitals from the same area, please check under the category Europe. Check also out text about places in Copenhagen to visit for free.
Thank you for reading and have a nice day.