Copenhagen Like a Scandi: 48 Hours in the Danish Capital (Autumn Edition)
Copenhagen, Denmark’s stylish capital, combines Nordic charm with cutting-edge design and culinary excellence, making it a dream destination for a weekend getaway. In this blog post I would like to share some insights from the first time I brought my husband to the city, indulging in delicious food, admiring iconic sights, and soaking up Copenhagen’s cozy hygge atmosphere.
Here’s how to make the most of an autumn trip to this picturesque Scandinavian city!
Day 1
Morning: Arrival and Hotel Check-In
Our adventure began with an early arrival by ferry from Oslo, docking in Copenhagen at 10 AM. After catching a bus to Copenhagen Central Station, we checked in at Villa Copenhagen, a luxury hotel located in a historic post office building. The blend of classic architecture and modern design perfectly set the tone for our Copenhagen experience.
Lunch at Selma
For lunch, we couldn’t resist trying Selma, one of Copenhagen’s best spots for smørrebrød, the traditional Danish open-faced sandwich. Paired with homemade snaps (flavored aquavit), this meal was a perfect introduction to local cuisine. The creative, seasonal toppings made it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Afternoon Stroll and Waterfront Views
We spent the afternoon walking through Indre By, Copenhagen’s historic city center. Comfortable walking shoes are a must when traveling in Scandinavia, and Copenhagen is no exception. Some of the iconic landmarks you can check out while burning off the snaps and smørrebrød are:
The Round Tower (Rundetaarn), an astronomical observatory with stunning views of the city.
Nyhavn, the colorful harborfront that’s quintessential Copenhagen.
Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish royal family.
The Little Mermaid, a statue paying tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale.
Kastellet, a star-shaped fortress perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Frederik’s Church, also known as The Marble Church, with its impressive dome.
Dinner with Beer Pairing at Barr
To cap off our first day, we dined at Barr, a restaurant housed in a historic building by the water. The menu celebrates Northern European flavors with a modern twist. We opted for the beer pairing, which perfectly complemented dishes like roasted duck and hearty barley risotto.
Day 2
Morning Swim and Sauna
We started the day with a rejuvenating swim and sauna session at Villa Copenhagen’s wellness centre. It was the ideal way to ease into a crisp autumn morning while enjoying views of the city skyline. We went first thing in the morning, while the sky was still pitch dark, and got to enjoy the pool and sauna by ourselves.
Breakfast at Kompa'9
For breakfast, we headed to Kompa'9, a cozy café tucked away in the city center. Their hot beverages and delicious breakfast menu were just what we needed to fuel the day ahead.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
Next, we visited the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum combining ancient and modern collections. The museum’s glass-domed winter garden was a highlight, offering a peaceful escape amidst stunning sculptures and lush greenery.
Lunch: Burgers in the King’s Garden
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without a burger from Gasoline Grill. We grabbed our burgers to go and enjoyed them in Kongens Have (The King’s Garden), the oldest royal garden in Denmark. Afterward, we sipped tea at the charming Hercules Pavilion nearby.
Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden was our next stop. Its glasshouses, filled with tropical plants, were a serene retreat from the autumn chill, and the outdoor paths offered scenic views of the changing foliage.
Dinner at Pizzeria C’ho Fame
For dinner, we tried Pizzeria C’ho Fame, a local favorite for its authentic, wood-fired pizzas. We had made reservations in advance, which is a must for this popular spot. The pizza lived up to the hype—it was easily some of the best we’ve ever had!
Tivoli by Night
Our day ended at Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s iconic amusement park. It was decorated for Halloween during our visit, adding a festive touch with pumpkins, lanterns, and spooky displays. Even if rides aren’t your thing, the atmosphere is magical at night, with lights reflecting off the park’s fountains and lakes.
Day 3
Morning Sightseeing and Last-Minute Shopping
For our final morning, we tailored our plans to our interests:
Art enthusiasts could take the train to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, located just outside the city and featuring stunning exhibits and seaside views.
Design lovers might explore the Designmuseum Denmark or the Finn Juhl House, a mid-century masterpiece.
For a leisurely option, we simply strolled the city, soaking in the crisp autumn air while browsing for souvenirs in charming boutiques.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen: Villa Copenhagen
We stayed at Villa Copenhagen, an eco-conscious luxury hotel steps from Tivoli Gardens and the central station. The rooms were elegantly decorated and the on-site sauna and pool made it a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.
Travel Tips for Copenhagen
Museum Closures: Many museums are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Must-Try Danish Sausage: Grab a medisterpølse from Jeanettes Pølser, one of the city’s popular sausage stands.
Scandinavian Connections: Copenhagen is well-connected to other cities. Take a train across the Øresund Bridge to Malmö or a ferry to Oslo for a seamless multi-city trip.
Final Thoughts
Our 48 hours in Copenhagen were filled with stunning sights, delicious food, and cozy autumn vibes. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s design scene, historic landmarks, or world-class dining, Copenhagen offers something for every traveler. It’s the perfect destination for a short, memorable Scandinavian escape.
