The Ultimate Guide to When to Visit Copenhagen and How to Get Around the City
It’s hardly a surprise that Copenhagen, Denmark’s innovative and vibrant capital, continues to skyrocket in popularity each year. But before you lose yourself in dreams of Tivoli Gardens and smørrebrød (Danish open-faced sandwiches), you should acquaint yourself with the city’s unique rhythms. Understanding the most efficient ways to navigate and choosing the perfect season to visit—even winter’s unique charm—will make for a more seamless vacation.Whether you choose to explore the historic center on a bike, immerse yourself in the unique experience of transitioning from summer’s endless daylight to winter’s cozy ‘hygge’ (a Danish concept of warmth and contentment–you’ll hear this word often) or opt for the convenience of public transport with your Rejsekort, this guide ensures a stress-free Danish adventure.The Best Time of Year to Visit CopenhagenBelieve it or not, Copenhagen is an all-season destination, with each month and weather pattern bringing a unique vibe and offering. “Copenhagen’s charm is ever-present, whether you’re enjoying vibrant summer festivals, picturesque autumn walks, or cozy winter ‘hygge,'” says Giuseppe Liverino, senior international press manager at Wonderful Copenhagen. “Each season offers a unique way to experience the city’s beauty and culture.”Radioval/DreamstimeSpring (March to May)Spring in Copenhagen is a time of rejuvenation and transformation, a stark contrast to the dark winter months. With the lowest crowds in March and a gradual increase in April and May, spring offers a more subdued and local experience. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s blooming landscapes and enjoy pleasant weather alongside locals craving Vitamin D again before the high tourist season kicks off in June.What to Do in SpringSpring marks the return of popular boat experiences such as GoBoat and Green Kayak (a unique program offering free kayaking sessions in exchange for picking up ocean garbage), which are typically fully booked during the summer. “Boat experiences start operating again in spring, making it easier to find available slots and allowing visitors to explore Copenhagen’s waterways and harbor uniquely,” said Liverino. The underground Cisternerne Museum, surrounded by the blooming Søndermarken Park, opens its doors in spring after the winter ice has melted. For those looking to enjoy the ultimate spring blooms, Dyrehaven, a protected park with hundreds of free-roaming deer and blossoming flowers, is an excellent choice.“One of the most stunning displays of nature’s beauty can be found at Nordvest’s Bispebjerg Cemetery, where cherry blossoms create a magical atmosphere,” said Liverino.” Another springtime favorite is the Reffen, the largest Nordic street food market, which kicks off its season at the end of April. “Here, you can indulge in a culinary experience with fewer crowds than in the summer.”Spring Weather in CopenhagenThe weather in Copenhagen during spring undergoes notable changes from early to late season. Early spring generally sees temperatures gradually rising from 41°F to 50°F, with occasional wintry weather and moderate rainfall. By late spring, from May to June, temperatures become milder and more pleasant, ranging from 54°F to 68°F on average. “Days become longer, with more sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities,” notes Liverino. “While rainfall persists, it tends to be lighter and less frequent than earlier in the season.”Deanpictures/DreamstimeSummer (June to August)Summer is when Copenhagen shines both literally and figuratively. This beloved season, synonymous with vibrant festivals, outdoor activities, and long daylight hours, makes Danes temporarily forget about seasonal depression (“Winter? I don’t know her!“). Be mindful that this is the peak time for tourists to visit—especially of the cruise boat variety—and notable attractions can get quite crowded. But Liverino has strategies to bypass most tourist traffic: “Visit cultural institutions early in the morning or during working days. Purchasing tickets in advance and using the Copenhagen Card can also help avoid long lines.” Booking restaurant visits in advance is also recommended, as Copenhagen’s gastronomic scene has worldwide notoriety.What to Do in SummerThe question is, what not to do in summer? The city comes alive, showcasing its international joie de vivre. For fashion enthusiasts, Copenhagen Fashion Week showcases Scandinavian designers’ latest trends. Music lovers can rock out in the street festival Distortion, which celebrates Copenhagen’s electronic music scene with street parties, concerts, and art installations across the city. Another highlight is the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, a week-long celebration of jazz music with performances at venues across the city, including outdoor stages and intimate clubs. And, of course, foodies need to mark their calendars with the Copenhagen Cooking Festival, featuring culinary experiences, food markets, workshops, and tastings highlighting Danish cuisine and international flavors.Summer also offers a wealth of outdoor activities and day trips. Exploring Copenhagen’s canals by kayak or GoBoat provides a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and landmarks. Cycling is another popular activity, with scenic routes along the coast or through Kalvebod Fælled to Dragør. The beaches surrounding Copenhagen are also excellent. Bellevue Beach, a 700-meter-long sandy beach in Klampenborg, is a popular destination for locals and tourists. Hellerup Beach is very kid-friendly, with shallow waters and a playground nearby. Amager Strandpark, Copenhagen’s largest beach, is within biking distance from the city center and easily reached by Metro. For a refreshing dip, visit Copenhagen’s harbor baths, with less crowded options, including those in Refshaleøen and Sydhavn. Day trips to nearby destinations like Dragør, the ARKEN Museum of Modern Art, and the northern coast offer scenic views and charming villages.To enjoy a Danish summer fully, live like a Dane and explore lesser-trafficked neighborhoods like Nørrebro and Vesterbro. Take advantage of the harbor baths, enjoy the street art while cycling through the city, and discover unique spots like Superkilen Park. “These neighborhoods offer unique attractions, local shops, cafes, and cultural experiences away from the crowds,” says Liverino.Summer Weather in CopenhagenCopenhagen’s summer weather is delightfully mild, with temperatures typically ranging from 60°F to 72°F. Extended daylight hours stretch into the evening, providing ample time for exploration and outdoor activities. The city experiences occasional rain showers, but they are generally brief, leaving plenty of sunshine to enjoy. “Summer in Copenhagen is perfect for outdoor adventures and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere,” says Liverino.Tivoli GardensAutumn (September to November)Autumn in Copenhagen is marked by picturesque landscapes and a cozy atmosphere. The city transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, and oranges as the leaves change color. November is the least busy month in autumn, making it the best time to visit for cheaper prices and fewer tourists. Hotel rates tend to be lower during less crowded seasons due to flexible pricing. “November is the perfect time to enjoy the city’s serene beauty and cultural attractions without the summer crowds,” says Liverino.What to Do in AutumnAutumn brings a variety of seasonal activities and events. One of the most dazzling spots during autumn is Fælledparken, a large park in Østerbro with wide-open spaces, tree-lined paths, and picturesque ponds. Briefly reminisce about the good old days with leaf jumping in Dyrehaven, a tradition where children gather to play and jump in mountains of fallen leaves. Another autumn highlight (of course!) is Halloween in Tivoli Gardens, where the park is decorated with ghostly themes, best enjoyed with a gløgg (spiced mulled wine).Autumn Weather in CopenhagenAutumn weather can be unpredictable, with temperature drops, increased precipitation, and gusty winds. Dining outdoors has become less common, but many cafés provide warm blankets for those who wish to sit outside. “Planning indoor activities is a good idea,” says Liverino. “This is an excellent time of the year to visit Copenhagen’s cultural institutions, which will be less crowded, especially during working hours.”Marc Skafte-VaabengaardWinter (December to February)Winter in Copenhagen is a season of ultimate hygge (get those cozy socks and candles out, pronto!), festive markets, and unique winter activities, especially during the holiday season. Shorter daylight hours can be challenging, but there are plenty of ways to make the most of your winter visit. Layering up to stay warm is crucial, and public transport provides a comfortable way to get around. Plan indoor activities like museum visits, cooking classes, and dining out to maximize the darker hours.“Prioritizing outdoor activities during daylight and indoor activities after dark helps optimize your time,” advises Liverino. “Being mindful of opening hours is essential, as they can vary during the winter.”For budget travelers, January and February are ideal months to visit, with fewer crowds and absurdly low hotel prices (by Copenhagen standards).What to Do In WinterCopenhagen transforms into a snowglobe in November and December, with Christmas markets a highlight, offering a magical atmosphere with festive lights, traditional Danish treats like aebleskiver (puffy pancake palls), and unique gifts, like licorice or butter cookies to purchase. Tivoli Gardens hosts one of the most popular Christmas markets, where visitors can bask in the season and even meet Santa. Other notable Christmas markets include Kronborg Castle in Helsingør and Bakken Amusement Park in Dyrehaven (the world’s oldest amusement park).Winter sports and activities add to the season’s charm. Outdoor ice rinks pop up in various locations around Copenhagen, with the rink by Frederiksberg Park being particularly fairy tale-esque. Winter bathing (aka cold-water swimming) is widespread in Denmark, even during the colder months–hello, Viking blood! Many places around Copenhagen offer winter bathing facilities with saunas for warming up afterward.Winter Weather In CopenhagenWinter weather can be cold and windy, with temperatures averaging around 35°F in February. Snow is not guaranteed, but be prepared for rain and strong winds. “Layering is key for comfort,” says Liverino. “Prepare for strong, cold winds and rain, and layer up—sunshine can be around the corner, and you might want to take some layers off or put them on in case of rain.” But never fear–rain, snow, sleet, or hail–you will still see intrepid Danes out on bicycles.How to Get Around Copenhagen by Foot, Bike, Public Transport, or CarCopenhagen’s public transport system is a model of efficiency and reliability, connecting the city’s neighborhoods and attractions. “Copenhagen has a reliable public transportation system where the Metro, S-trains, and buses are seamlessly accessible with a single ticket,” says Mads Østergaard of Visit Denmark.” This extensive network makes getting around the city straightforward and stress-free.”Biking and Walking in CopenhagenCopenhagen is globally renowned for its extensive and continually developing bicycle-friendly infrastructure. According to the latest report from Copenhagen’s Municipality, the Danish capital has five times more bicycles than cars, making it the most popular means of transportation. “Copenhagen boasts 546 km of bicycle paths, most of which are curb-separated bicycle tracks on both sides of the street, keeping cars and bicycles apart,” says Liverino. This setup ensures that bicycles have the right of way in many areas, prioritizing cyclists’ wellbeing.Cycling Rules in CopenhagenCycling in Copenhagen is straightforward, but being aware of other riders is essential. Be mindful of the biking rules: do not use your phone while cycling, use lights when it’s dark, keep to the right unless passing a slower rider, and use hand signals to indicate stops and turns. When parking your bike, respect local laws and residents by using the designated bicycle parking areas throughout the city. Helmets are not mandatory but are highly recommended in Copenhagen.“My number one piece of advice for tourists cycling in Copenhagen is simple: don’t do anything you wouldn’t do while driving a car,” advises Liverino. “In Copenhagen, the bicycle is considered our car, so it’s important to treat cycling with the same responsibility and respect.”Renting Bikes In CopenhagenTravelers have several convenient options for renting bikes in Copenhagen. Most hotels offer bicycle rentals for their guests, and bicycle rental shops are available in every district. Donkey Republic is a popular bike-sharing program that allows you to pick up and drop off bicycles at various locations throughout the city. “You can locate and unlock bikes using the Donkey Republic app, making it a convenient choice for tourists and locals,” says Liverino.Notable Copenhagen Bike RoutesOne notable cycling route is the Bjarke Ingels route, a 22 km path that takes you to all of the Bjarke Ingels Group’s projects in Copenhagen, ideal for architecture enthusiasts. The Harbour Circle is a designated 13 km route that lets you experience Copenhagen’s harbor up close, taking you across car-free bridges, along canals, and through less frequented areas like Sydhavn. For a more extended adventure, the Coastal Route, from Copenhagen up north to Elsinore along the East Coast, passes notable sites like Finn Juhl’s House, Arne Jacobsen’s Petrol Station, and Bellevue Beach.Walking in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world, thanks to its flat terrain and urban design. “Strolling around the canals and Copenhagen Harbor is a must-experience, offering great views of heritage and new architecture,” says Liverino. “Don’t miss walking through the Elephant Gate and Carl Jacobsen’s Park.”The Metro SystemCopenhagen’s Metro is a standout feature of the city’s public transport. “The Metro operates from early morning until late at night with frequent service and short waiting times, making it an essential part of urban mobility,” explains Østergaard.The M1 line runs from Vestamager through the city center to Vanløse, while the M2 line operates from Copenhagen Airport through the city to Vanløse. The M3 line, known as the city circle line, connects Østerbro, Nørrebro, Vesterbro, and Frederiksberg with the city center. The M4 line runs from Orientkaj through the city center to Copenhagen Central Station, with new extensions to Southern Harbor (Sydhavnen). “The Metro’s design ensures that key areas are always accessible,” Østergaard notes, emphasizing the system’s convenience for daily commuters and tourists.The Metro makes getting from the airport to the city center seamless and affordable. “You can hop on the M2 line right at Copenhagen Airport and be in the city center in just 15 minutes,” says Østergaard. A single journey costs around 24 DKK (≈ 3.50 USD) for two zones for one adult.The S-Train NetworkThe S-train network links Copenhagen with its suburbs and city districts. “The S-trains run frequently, especially during peak hours, ensuring timely connections across the Greater Copenhagen area,” said Østergaard.This network includes seven lines, such as the A Line (Køge to Hillerød), the B Line (Høje Taastrup to Farum), and the C Line (Frederikssund to Klampenborg). The F Line runs between Copenhagen South and Hellerup, the E Line connects Køge to Holte, and the H Line runs from Ballerup to Østerport Station. The Bx Line provides express service from Høje Taastrup to Buddinge. “The S-train network is indispensable for suburban residents and those looking to explore beyond the city limits,” he adds.Regional Trains (DSB)Regional trains operated by DSB (the Danish State Railways) offer domestic and international connections, providing convenient options for commuters and travelers exploring destinations beyond the capital. Routes extend to Germany and Sweden, making cross-border travel straightforward. Regional trains are also conveniently accessible from Copenhagen Airport, with direct services to major Danish cities and neighboring countries.Buses and Harbor BusesCopenhagen’s bus network complements the Metro and S-train services, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the city and its suburbs. “While buses may operate less frequently, they are instrumental during technical issues with other transportation forms,” Østergaard explains. The harbor buses are another unique feature of Copenhagen’s transport system.“The electric harbor buses are both NOx- and particle-neutral, offering a scenic and environmentally friendly way to traverse the city,” says Østergaard. They connect tourist-friendly harbor stops like The Royal Library, Islands Brygge, and Refshaleøen.TaxisTaxis are readily available in Copenhagen, especially at major transport hubs like the airport and train stations. “While taxis are convenient and easy to find, they are often not the most popular way to get around due to the excellent public transport options available,” explains Østergaard. Taxi fares from the airport to the city center typically range from DKK 250 to DKK 350.Tickets and PassesCopenhagen offers a variety of ticket and pass options tailored to different needs. The single-ride ticket is perfect for quick, impromptu trips across the city. The City Pass offers unlimited travel on public transport within certain zones for a set number of consecutive days.The Rejsekort is a rechargeable card that can be used across all modes of public transport in Denmark.The Copenhagen Card is an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience everything Copenhagen offers in a limited time. It provides free admission to a wide range of attractions and unlimited use of public transport within the Greater Copenhagen region. “Water bus rides are free with the Copenhagen Card, and passengers can bring bicycles for free,” explains Liverino.Peak Times and Travel TipsTo avoid the busiest periods, travelers should be aware of peak rush hours, typically between 7:00 and 9:00 am and 4:00 and 6:00 pm on weekdays. Despite the rush, the Metro’s frequent service ensures easy navigation of Central Copenhagen.Purchasing tickets in advance and making seat reservations through the DSB App is advisable for longer trips. Ticket vending machines are available at metro stations, train stations, and bus terminals, and some convenience stores and kiosks also sell public transport tickets and passes.By understanding these transportation options, travelers can weather the weather and make the most of their time in Copenhagen by bike, foot, or–yes–even a canal boat.