72 Hours in Copenhagen
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
We landed in Copenhagen mid afternoon taking off from Bristol at 11 o’clock sharp. The flight was smooth, and before we knew it, we were disembarking into the vibrant energy of Denmark’s capital. Our first stop was the Nikolaj Kirke, a former church turned contemporary art space nestled in the heart of the city. The square surrounding the Nikolaj was full of tables from nearby bars, with locals and tourists soaking up the sun from the rare heatwave they were experiencing.
Lunch was a delightful treat at Restaurant Cholon, where we indulged in Vietnamese small plates that were both flavorful and artfully presented. The cocktails here were equally impressive, adding a touch of sophistication to our light meal. A particular highlight was their Vietnamese Coffee with Rum. After a few hours, we walked two streets to our charming Airbnb on Fortunstraede, a quaint street that perfectly captured the essence of Copenhagen’s cosy charm. The Airbnb was roomy, modern and the perfect example of the European apartments we have all come to know and love.
As evening descended, we ventured to the Meatpacking District, a lively area known for its trendy independent eateries and nightlife. Our dinner at Paté Paté was a highlight, an eclectic mix of flavours and textures that left us fully satisfied. Highlight dishes included a rich risotto with tender squash, aromatic sage and a very generous sprinkle of Parmesan; elevated mash potatoes with creamy Manchego and a hint of smoked paprika; and crispy mushroom spring rolls, filled with a luscious béchamel, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. The restaurant’s relaxed vibe and innovative menu set the perfect tone for our Copenhagen adventure. With the drinks, the meal came in at around £40pp, which for the quality was more than reasonable.
Day 2: Harbour Fun and Street Food
The second day began with a hearty breakfast at Sidecar, a stylish café with a welcoming ambiance. Here, they have reimagined the classic buffet brunch and front he moment you entry, you're greeted by a large rustic table brimming with a delightful array of cold dishes, including vibrant salads, Danish open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, an assortment of cheeses, and freshly baked mini croissants. What sets Sidecar apart is their commitment to serving warm dishes directly from the kitchen, ensuring that your scrambled eggs and pancakes arrive hot and delicious. The result is a brunch experience that combines the best of both worlds in a charming and inviting setting.
Energised for the day ahead, we headed to the harbour, where we took a refreshing dip in the cool, clean waters—a fantastic way to experience the city like a local. Next, we hopped on a ferry taxi to Reffen, the largest street food market in Northern Europe. The ferry taxis were frequent and the trip down cost us only £2.70.
At Reffen, the variety of international cuisines was overwhelming, in the best way possible. The site which has transformed the once dusty and neglected harbourside lot, surrounded by run-down workshops and warehouses now beholds a vibrant village for street food enthusiasts. From mouthwatering tacos to savoury bao buns, we sampled our way through a handful of the 35 stalls, each bite better than the last. Reffen’s lively atmosphere and unique food offerings made it a standout experience. However I will note that this must-visit spot is only open until September 29th.
Day 3: Culture and Relaxation
Our final morning began at the Original Café, perched on a rooftop overlooking the Stork Fountain. The view was stunning, and the pastries and coffee were just what we needed to start our day. After breakfast, we wandered through a charming flea market we stumbled upon in a local square. The market was brimming with vintage treasures and quirky finds, making it a perfect spot for souvenir hunting.
The highlight of our day was a visit to Tivoli Gardens. The park’s flower show was a feast for the eyes, with vibrant blooms and intricate displays adding a touch of whimsy to the classic Tivoli experience. We took our time strolling through the gardens, soaking in the beauty and enjoying the serene atmosphere. On site there was an amazing food hall which boasted a large selection of vendors offering an array of world cuisine, so no matter your taste in food there really is something for everyone. Entry to Tivoli was £18 and this did not include the rides, which were an additional cost.
To cap off our trip, we indulged in a luxurious visit to the Manon Les Suites spa. In the heart of this gorgeous hotel, the Junglefish Pool awaits, transporting you from the bustle of the city streets to a lush jungle oasis. Head to the rooftop and you are greeted with a spa and lounge that perfectly marries Balines warmth and Nordic simplicity. Here you can utilise the traditional sauna, aromatic steam baths and refreshing cold-water bucket baths to give you that full spa experience. As a guest of Manon les Suites, you can enjoy complimentary access to this tropical retreat, however if like us you are just a visitor, you are looking at around £80 for a four hour session.
As we prepared to leave this enchanting city, we reflected on our whirlwind 72 hours filled with culture, cuisine, and relaxation. Copenhagen had truly left a mark on us, and we departed with a sense of contentment and a promise to return.
