$10 back on your first eligible booking — in the RatedOtels app only. Get the app Terms
BOOK
Culture and history

3 Days in Copenhagen — Culture & History

culture history copenhagen city-break royal-palaces
Length
3 days
Stops
14
3 Days in Copenhagen — Culture & History
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
SEARCH

What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary immerses you in Copenhagen's rich past, from magnificent royal palaces and ancient fortresses to world-class museums and iconic cultural landmarks. Perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to explore the heart of Denmark's capital.

Culture 3 Sightseeing 3 Activity 6 Viewpoint 2

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 6.8 hrs
1

Amalienborg Palace

Culture 1.5 hours

Witness the daily changing of the Royal Guard and explore the elegant courtyards of the Danish monarch's winter residence.

Good to know

Arrive before noon to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony; museum tickets can be purchased on-site.

2

Frederik's Church (Marble Church)

Sightseeing 45 minutes

Admire the impressive rococo architecture and one of Scandinavia's largest church domes, a short walk from Amalienborg.

Good to know

Entry is free; consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.

3

Nyhavn

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Stroll along this iconic 17th-century waterfront, lined with colorful gabled houses and historic wooden ships, perfect for a classic photo opportunity and lunch.

Good to know

Many cafes and restaurants offer outdoor seating; consider a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich (smørrebrød) for lunch.

4

Rosenborg Castle

Activity 2 hours

Step into Danish royal history, home to the Crown Jewels, Royal Regalia, and fascinating artifacts from the Danish monarchy.

Good to know

Book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure entry and avoid queues.

5

Round Tower (Rundetårn)

Viewpoint 1 hour

Climb the unique spiral ramp to the top of Europe's oldest functioning observatory for panoramic views of Copenhagen's historic rooftops.

Good to know

The ramp is easy to ascend; check opening hours as they can vary by season.

Day 2 4 stops · about 10.5 hrs
6

National Museum of Denmark

Activity 3 hours

Delve deep into Denmark's rich past, from the Stone Age and Viking era to the modern welfare state, through extensive archaeological and cultural collections.

Good to know

Allow ample time to explore the vast exhibits; free entry for permanent collections.

7

Christiansborg Palace

Activity 2.5 hours

Discover the seat of Danish parliamentary power, royal reception rooms, and the fascinating medieval ruins hidden beneath the palace.

Good to know

Multiple attractions within the palace require separate tickets; consider a combined ticket for better value.

8

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Culture 2 hours

Marvel at ancient Mediterranean and Egyptian art, as well as 19th-century Danish and French sculptures, housed in a stunning architectural setting with a beautiful winter garden.

Good to know

Entry is free on Tuesdays; check for special exhibitions which may require separate tickets.

9

Tivoli Gardens

Activity 3 hours

Experience one of the world's oldest and most charming amusement parks, a cultural icon blending thrilling rides with beautiful gardens, live entertainment, and historic architecture.

Good to know

Entry tickets are required, with additional costs for rides; check seasonal opening dates as it's not open year-round.

Day 3 5 stops · about 6.5 hrs
10

The Little Mermaid

Sightseeing 30 minutes

Visit Copenhagen's most famous landmark, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, overlooking the harbor.

Good to know

Best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds; easily accessible by public transport or a scenic walk from Kastellet.

11

Kastellet

Activity 1.5 hours

Explore one of Europe's best-preserved star fortresses, offering a peaceful walk along its ramparts and a glimpse into Denmark's military history.

Good to know

Free to enter and walk around; combine with a visit to the nearby Little Mermaid statue.

12

Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke)

Viewpoint 1.5 hours

Ascend the iconic external spiral spire of this baroque church for breathtaking panoramic views across Copenhagen and its surroundings.

Good to know

The climb can be challenging with narrow steps towards the top; check opening hours for spire access.

13

Canal Tour

Activity 1 hour

Gain a unique perspective on Copenhagen's historic architecture and landmarks as you cruise through its picturesque canals with informative commentary.

Good to know

Tours depart frequently from Nyhavn or Gammel Strand; consider booking ahead during peak season.

14

Freetown Christiania

Culture 2 hours

Discover this unique, self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood, a fascinating example of alternative living and counter-culture history within the city.

Good to know

Respect local rules and residents; photography is restricted in certain areas, especially Pusher Street.

Where to stay

Hotels in Copenhagen

Book direct on our own Copenhagen hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Copenhagen

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Copenhagen itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Copenhagen, from our own travel research.

Back to the Copenhagen guide
Take RatedOtels with you
Cashback on eligible app bookings only, credited after check-out. Terms
$10 back on your 1st app booking
App bookings only · Terms
Get app