Solo Travel in Copenhagen: The Essential Guide

In this essential guide, find out why Copenhagen is the perfect destination for solo travellers, and how to make the most of visiting Denmark’s capital alone!
I absolutely LOVED Copenhagen. I visited on a two-night, three day solo trip in 2019 as part of my experiment taking budget-friendly trips to ‘expensive’ cities. I quickly fell in love with the cosy ‘hygge’ vibes and pretty neighbourhoods. It’s somewhere I felt safe, comfortable and at home immediately, and I found loads of great things to do alone.
If you’re planning a solo trip to Copenhagen, this essential guide covers everything you need to know!
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Copenhagen Solo Travel Essentials
- Where to stay: Steel House Hostel for modern, well-located dorms; 25hours Indre By for boutique hotel vibes with locally inspired decor; Hotel Bethel for an affordable hotel stay right beside Nyhavn.
- The best tours: Join an intimate group of no more than 10 on a Copenhagen highlights walking tour; taste your way around the Danish capital on a guided culinary tour.
- Essential sights: Nyhaven, Amalienborg, The Little Mermaid, Rosenborg Castle, Freetown Christiana.
- Where to eat: Flottenheimer for a cosy brunch; Aamans Deli and Takeaway for traditional Danish smørrebrod; GRØD for hearty bowls of goodness.
Want to plan a weekend trip? Check out my ultimate guide and itinerary for two days in Copenhagen!
Why Copenhagen is the perfect solo travel destination
Copenhagen is an awesome city for solo travellers for a multitude of reasons! For starters, it’s a gorgeous destination – charming architecture, great food and loads of fun things to do.
The city is compact enough to make getting around easy, but large enough that there’s plenty to explore. It’s one of the more expensive destinations I’ve visited in Europe, but there are ways to make a solo visit affordable. There’s a lively hostel scene, so it’s a great place to meet other travellers.
Most importantly, Copenhagen is considered one of the safest cities in the world, which made me feel comfortable as a solo female traveller. English is widely-spoken, and I found locals to be friendly and welcoming. Oh, and it’s one of the cleanest cities I think I’ve ever set foot in!


Is Copenhagen safe for solo travellers?
Copenhagen was named the safest city in the world in 2021, so it’s perfect for solo travellers – especially if it’s your first trip alone. Crime rates are low, and public transport is well-connected and generally reliable.
As the first country to legalise same sex partnerships in 1989, Denmark in general is considered safe and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers.
I felt really safe in Copenhagen as a solo female traveller. The locals I spoke to were friendly and open, and if you do get into any kind of trouble, English is widely spoken if you need to ask for help.
Of course, like any major city, there’s always a small amount of risk. I’d advise taking the usual precautions against petty crime and staying vigilant – like securing your valuables, not walking in quiet areas alone at night, and making sure you’re aware of your surroundings.


Budgeting tips for solo travel in Copenhagen
As I mentioned previously, Copenhagen has a reputation for being one of Europe’s more expensive cities to visit. In fact, it regularly ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, there are some great tips and tricks to keep to a budget on a Copenhagen trip. I spent a total of £250 for a three-day solo visit – so it can definitely be done!
My tips for a budget-friendly solo trip to Copenhagen:
- Book your trip as far in advance as possible to secure the best deals on flights and accommodation.
- Fly with a budget airline & limit your luggage. Flights to Copenhagen with the likes of Ryanair are usually very cheap, especially if you travel with just a small backpack as a personal item to avoid extra luggage fees. Totally doable for a weekend trip!
- Visit in Spring or Autumn if you can, to avoid price increases during Christmas and the sunny summer months.
- Consider staying in a hostel – dorm beds can be significantly cheaper than hotel rooms. I can personally recommend Steel House Hostel as a modern, friendly hostel in a great location!
- Make use of the city’s widespread free water fountains to top up a refillable water bottle.
- Find free things to do in Copenhagen to keep activity costs low – most sightseeing highlights I’ve listed below can be seen without spending a penny!
- If you’re planning on visiting multiple attractions, find out if a Copenhagen Card could help you save money on entrance fees.
- Eat at casual dining restaurants or street food kiosks to keep food costs low. I’ve listed some favourites in my guide to cheap eats in Copenhagen!
- If the weather’s nice, picnics are a popular local activity – Copenhagen has plenty of beautiful green spaces to enjoy a sandwich or takeaway pizza in!
Need some inspiration for a budget-friendly trip? Find out exactly what I spent on my trip in this post!


How to get to Copenhagen
Copenhagen Airport is the city’s international airport, served by many major airlines including British Airways, EasyJet and RyanAir.
Getting from the airport to the city centre is super easy by train. The journey takes 15 minutes, and trains run every 10 minutes during the day, every 20 minutes in the evening, and every hour at night.
Getting around Copenhagen
I spent most of my time in Copenhagen exploring the city on foot. Most attractions are within walking distance, however you may consider getting public transport to locations such as Freetown Christiana.
Copenhagen has a metro service that runs between neighbourhoods, as well as trains and a network of buses. Single ticket prices start from 24 DKK.
Copenhagen is also incredibly cyclist-friendly – evidenced by the huge amount of bikes I saw on the streets! Cycle paths and bike bridges make cycling an easy way to get around, and you can rent a bike very easily here. The only times I’d recommend avoiding cycling unless you’re very confident is during morning and late afternoon rush hours, as cycling is popular for commuters.


Places to stay as a solo traveller in Copenhagen
Whether you’re looking for a hostel or a hotel, these are my hand-picked recommendations for the perfect Copenhagen solo stay!
The best hostels in Copenhagen
Despite being in my 30s, I still love finding a great hostel when I’m travelling solo. Being able to socialise casually with other travellers gives me some much-needed human interaction, and I love being surrounded by the buzz. Although, a quiet, chilled out dorm to escape that buzz when I need to is also a must!
I stayed at Steel House Hostel in Copenhagen, a modern, industrial style hostel in the Vesterbro area. I booked a bed in a four-person female dorm, which had comfy bunks and a shared bathroom within the dorm space. There’s plenty of seating in the common areas, and the bar offers the chance to socialise with other guests. I ended up here for a few hours before my flight home, drinking a few more beers than I probably should have…
Need more convincing? Read my full review of Steel House Hostel.
If Steel House is all booked up or not quite what you’re looking for, some other popular hostels in Copenhagen include:
- Generator Hostel: This established hostel chain has made a name for itself as a solo traveller favourite around Europe, and Copenhagen’s Generator has great facilities and a sociable bar.
- Urban Camper: For a unique stay in Copenhagen, this hostel offers indoor tents – camping vibes, without the bad weather! It’s a little further out than the other options, but it’s close to the lively area of Nørrebro, and a stone’s throw from the metro station.
- Copenhagen Downtown Hostel: If you’re looking for lively vibes to meet new party pals, Downtown Hostel is where its at. With one of the cheapest bars in the city, it’s also within easy reach of Copenhagen’s top bars and clubs.


Hotels in Copenhagen for solo travellers
Not a fan of sharing your space? Check out the best hotels in Copenhagen for solo stays:
- 25hours Indre By: I stayed at a 25hours hotel in Berlin and love their whole boutique style, with decor inspired by the location. Copenhagen’s 4* outpost has ‘hygge’ style cosy bedrooms in a great location, just a short walk from the city centre’s main attractions.
- Motel One Copenhagen: My go-to hotel chain, you can’t beat Motel One for value. Comfortable rooms in stylish surroundings, at an affordable price. And yep, they offer single rooms!
- Hotel Bethel: The most affordable hotel in the Indre By area, step straight out into Nyhavn with this centrally located 3* spot.
- Manon Les Suites: Definitely not a cheap option, but if you’re planning to blow the budget, do it here. This 5* oasis is home to THAT viral Instagram pool, and a gorgeous rooftop terrace.
Essential sights to see on a solo trip to Copenhagen
Time for the juicy bits! These were my personal highlights from my weekend in Copenhagen, alongside one recommendation that I unfortunately missed out on. I’m earmarking that one for a return visit!
Nyhavn
The first place I went to in the city, Nyhavn is the quintessential image of Copenhagen. Colourful historic houses line this lively harbour, dotted with centuries-old small ships. Originally built as a waterway between the sea and the old city, it quickly became a lively port where sailors would eat, drink, and occasionally engage in…unsavoury activities. Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction with restaurants, bars and boat tours.
If you want to see Copenhagen from a different angle, I recommend booking an affordable canal cruise around the city’s harbour and waterways!

Amalienborg
Amalienborg is Copenhagen’s royal palace complex, and the best place to explore the history of Danish monarchy! Made up of multiple palaces and other significant buildings, some are closed residences, but others are open to the public for visiting.
- Frederik VIII’s Palace: Residence of the current reigning King of Denmark.
- Christian IX’s Palace: Residence of Queen Margarethe II, the former queen of Denmark.
- Christian VII’s Palace: The most expensive of the four palaces.
- Christian VIII’s Palace: Home of the Amalienborg Palace Museum, exploring 150 years of royal history.
- Det Gule Palæ: The Neoclassical ‘yellow palace’ building can be viewed from the outside.
- Frederik’s Church: An 18th century church with the largest dome in Scandinavia.


The Little Mermaid
Another iconic Copenhagen sight, although I was surprised at how small this well-renowned statue actually is! Still, it’s absolutely worth walking past and checking out. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 fairy tale, the statue was commissioned in 1909 by Carl Jacobsen, the founder of Carlsberg’s son.
If you continue walking along the waterfront for around 10 minutes, you’ll be able to see the The Genetically Modified Mermaid, a twisted version of the original statue. It’s part of the ‘Genetically Modified Paradise’, a collection of similar sculptures in the area.


Rosenborg Castle & Gardens
Rosenberg Castle was built in 1606 as a summer home for Christian IV. Today, its main attraction is housing some of Denmark’s most important treasures – including the Danish crown jewels!
On either side of the castle sit two gardens, which are absolutely worth spending some time in! The castle is bordered to the east by The King’s Garden, the oldest and most visited park in central Copenhagen.
I also loved wandering around the Botanical Garden – a leafy, peaceful space away from the city buzz. The Botanical Garden is home to the Danish Natural History Museum and an enormous 19th century palm house.


Freetown Christiana
Established in the 1970s, Freetown Christiana is an autonomous district with its own rules and regulations that residents and visitors must adhere to, including no private cars, weapons or violence. Up to 1000 people live as residents in Christiania, and it’s an area full of street art, creativity and hippie cafes.
A highlight of my solo Copenhagen itinerary, it’s a really interesting an unique community, with a fascinating ethos and history. My one recommendation would be to visit in the afternoon rather than early in the morning, when the area is more lively.


Tivoli Gardens
Unfortunately, Tivoli was in the middle of being changed over when I visited in late September, so I didn’t get to experience one of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions. However, it was the most-recommended thing to do when I was planning my trip, so it’s made an appearance in this guide regardless!
Denmark’s most-visited amusement park, Tivoli Gardens brings rides and attractions to the centre of Copenhagen. Beautifully decorated traditional fairground rides sit within the park’s landscaped gardens, amongst well-preserved 19th century buildings. The gardens are usually open from April to September, plus in October for Halloween and December for Christmas.
The best tours in Copenhagen for solo travellers
Taking a tour as a solo traveller is a great way to meet others, all while getting a feel for the city and hitting up a local guide for tips for the rest of your stay. I like to take a general orientation tour, but there are also some great area-specific tours in Copenhagen to check out through GetYourGuide:
- Take a Copenhagen highlights walking tour – with a maximum of ten people per tour, it’s a more intimate way to learn about the city and meet other travellers.
- Learn more about the fascinating history of Freetown Christiana and Christianshavn.
- Explore the neighbourhood of Vesterbro, a former red light district, with beer stops along the way on a Politically Incorrect Beer Walk.


Solo Dining in Copenhagen
Solo dining can be the most nerve-wracking part of solo travel. My usual advice is to pick casual dining spots, which feel less awkward to eat in alone than high end restaurants.
Some of my favourite foodie spots in Copenhagen include:
- Flottenheimer: I was absolutely OBSESSED with the Danish brunch I had here. I love that you can have a bit of everything with a selection of small dishes, including avocado, scrambled egg, gorgeously fluffy pancakes and a spinach and feta quesadilla.
- Aamans Deli and Takeaway: Try an essential Danish lunch dish here! Smørrebrod are open sandwiches, with a choice of toppings on rye bread. My favourites the potato and egg topped sandwiches, but you can also try a variety of meats and smoked fish.
- Next Door Café: Quirky decor and delicious pancakes, with counter-style seating at the window, perfect for solo seating and people-watching.
- Tommi’s Burger Joint: In the centre of the city’s lively meatpacking district, Tommi’s Burger Joint is an affordable fast-casual spot offering messy, delicious burgers.
For eating on the go, Copenhagen has plenty of budget-friendly street food options. Try a classic Danish hot dog at DØP, and load up on goodness with a hearty bowl from GRØD.
If you’re travelling on a solo budget, check out my recommendations for seven great affordable eats in Copenhagen!


Copenhagen food tours
Taking a guided food tour was a real highlight of my solo weekend in Copenhagen. As well as all the delicious things I tried, I also got the chance to meet other travellers from a diverse range of background. Nothing brings strangers together faster than food, so here are some of my top recommendations for foodie activities in Copenhagen:
- This was the guided culinary tour I joined, taking in a variety of essential Danish delicacies, including cheese, open-faced sandwiches, beers and candy.
- One thing Denmark’s food scene is known for is its unmatched contribution to baked goods. Join a Danish Pastry tasting tour to five top-rated bakeries to sample their delicious wares.
- If you want to get hands-on, try a pastry baking class! Learn the traditional ways of making the Danish pastry, and eat everything you make.
Read my essential guide to what to expect on a Copenhagen food tour!
Evening activities for solo travellers
Evenings on a city break are a time I’ve often struggled with when travelling solo, as I’m not really a party-heavy kinda girl. Thankfully, Copenhagen has a great variety of evening activities on offer, whether you want to hit up some pubs with newfound friends or try something more relaxed.
- Take an evening walk around Nyhavn and soak up the buzzing atmosphere. If you fancy getting out onto the water, you can also join an evening boat cruise to see the harbour lights from the water.
- Evening is a great time to visit Tivoli Gardens – open late across the summer months, plus for Halloween and Christmas.
- Relax in the former Carlsberg factory at AIRE Ancient Baths.
- Visit The Tower at Christiansborg Castle for views across the city – it’s open until 9pm.
- Foodies will love this small group gourmet walking tour that takes place in the evening.
- Head to Byhaven for free live music concerts during the spring and summer months. Check the event schedule here.
- If you’re feeling sociable, you can join an organised pub crawl to make new friends and enjoy Copenhagen’s nightlife scene.
- See a show at the Copenhagen Opera House.


Solo day trips from Copenhagen
If you’re spending an extended amount of time in Copenhagen, check out some of the most popular day tours that are perfect for solo travellers:
- Tick off two countries in one, with a day trip to Malmo in Sweden.
- Combine a visit to Denmark’s ‘forgotten giants’ on a visit to Møns Klint and Forest Tower.
- Visit Frederiksborg, Kronborg and Roskilde on a guided castles of Denmark tour.
More Copenhagen Travel Guides:
- 2 Days in Copenhagen: Itinerary and Travel Guide
- How to Visit Copenhagen on a Budget: What I Actually Spent
- 7 Awesome & Affordable Places To Eat in Copenhagen
- What to Expect on a Copenhagen Food Tour