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How to Plan a Trip to Copenhagen

The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Denmark needs.

Fly into
CPH
Country
Denmark
Suggested stay
3–5 days
Base yourself
Nyhavn + waterfront walk

Your 4-step Copenhagen plan

Step 1 — Book flights to CPH

Kastrup Airport (CPH) is the main gateway to Copenhagen. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.

See flight deals to CPH

Step 2 — Pick a neighborhood

Base yourself in Nyhavn + waterfront walk for the best first-time visit — Iconic 17th-century harbour with painted houses.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Step 3 — Plan your itinerary

Start with Nyhavn + waterfront walk, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Copenhagen.

Things to do in Copenhagen

Step 4 — Sort your airport transfer

Metro M2 (to Kongens Nytorv / Nørreport) is DKK 36 (€5) and takes 13 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.

CPH arrival guide

Before you book — visa check

Denmark is Schengen — visa-free for most Western passports up to 90 days. CPH airport is exceptional for transit — direct rail to centre in 13 minutes makes 4-hour layovers viable for downtown visits.

Compare Copenhagen hotels