Wondering what to see with 2 days in Copenhagen as a sustainable traveler? You’re in the right place!
Copenhagen is one of the world’s greenest cities, where cycling, organic dining, and carbon-neutral transport are part of everyday life. Ranked 10th globally in the Environmental Performance Index, Denmark makes sustainable travel in Copenhagen easy and rewarding.
Having lived here, I’ve seen firsthand how seamlessly the city integrates sustainability—whether it’s biking everywhere, enjoying farm-to-table dining, or exploring by electric boat.
In this 2 day itinerary for Copenhagen, you’ll discover the best of the city while minimizing your environmental impact. From eco-certified stays to green spaces and local culture, this guide will help you explore responsibly.
Ready for a green adventure? Let’s dive in!
💸 Pro tip: Save money on Copenhagen attractions by getting a Copenhagen Discover Card or a Copenhagen Hop Card.
Copenhagen Travel Logistics
Where is Copenhagen?
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is located on the eastern coast of the island of Zealand.
The city is just a few kilometers from Sweden, connected by the Øresund Bridge. Its strategic location makes it a key gateway between Scandinavia and the rest of Europe.
Best time to visit Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and strong winds, often under overcast skies. It’s always a good idea to carry a rain jacket or umbrella, no matter the season.
The best time to visit Copenhagen is from June to August, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, this also means it can be crowded, and prices tend to be higher.
Another great time is December, just before Christmas, when the city glows with festive lights, Christmas markets, and holiday events. However, winters are chilly with short daylight hours.
Getting to Copenhagen
Getting to Copenhagen sustainably is easier than you might think. While Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is well-connected by air, if possible, the most eco-friendly way to reach Copenhagen is by land or sea.
If you’re coming from Germany, you can take a direct train or bus, reducing your carbon footprint while enjoying the scenic journey. From Sweden, the iconic Øresund Bridge connects Malmö to Copenhagen, making train travel a seamless and sustainable option.
There are also ferry services from Norway, Sweden, Germany, and even the United Kingdom, offering a relaxed and greener alternative to flying.
Getting around Copenhagen
With an excellent public transport network and a bike-friendly culture, Copenhagen is one of the easiest cities to navigate sustainably. You can explore every corner of Copenhagen without relying on taxis or rental cars.
Public transportation
Copenhagen’s public transport system includes metro, trains, and buses—all seamlessly connected and operating through a zone-based system. The city and Greater Copenhagen are divided into zones ranging from 1 to 99, but with 2 days in Copenhagen, you will only need to navigate within the central zones (1-3).
Even getting from Copenhagen Airport to the city center is effortless with public transportation.
If you’re planning to use public transport frequently, consider getting a City Pass or Copenhagen Card. Here are your options:
- City Pass. Allows unlimited travel on buses, trains, and the metro within selected zones.
- Copenhagen Discover Card. Provides free entry to over 80 attractions along with unlimited public transport, including airport transfers.
- Copenhagen Hop Card. Offers free access to select attractions and unlimited rides on the Hop-On Hop-Off buses.
Biking
Copenhagen is a cyclist’s paradise. With dedicated bike lanes and bike rentals available everywhere, cycling is the most sustainable and enjoyable way to get around.
Taxis
Taxis in Copenhagen are expensive and not the most sustainable choice, even though many of them are electric. I’ve been living in Copenhagen for more than three years, and I’ve never once needed a taxi. Even when traveling with my two nieces, I found the public transport system more than sufficient.
How To Spend 2 Days In Copenhagen: A Sustainable Itinerary
Now that we’ve covered the travel logistics, let’s go over some of the top things to do in Copenhagen in 2 days while keeping sustainability in mind.
Day 1) History, Culture & Classic Copenhagen
Morning: Savor a traditional Danish breakfast & explore Copenhagen by bike
Start your 2-day Copenhagen adventure with a delicious Danish pastry from Andersen Bakery, conveniently located near your first stop of the day. It’s the perfect way to begin your itinerary.
If you’d rather sit down for a hearty breakfast, Bryggens Spisehus is a great choice, offering a wholesome Danish meal to start your day right.
Once you’re full, it’s time to explore Copenhagen by bike—or eBike. Cycling isn’t just a mode of transport in Copenhagen, it’s a way of life. Even in winter, locals pedal through the city, embracing the crisp air.
As a visitor, there’s no better way to experience sustainable travel in Copenhagen than on two wheels. Exploring by bike lets you see major attractions, cruise through vibrant neighborhoods, and uncover hidden gems often missed by public transport.
Opt for an eBike tour for an effortless ride with a local guide, which is also a great way to meet people if you’re traveling solo in Copenhagen. Most guided tours start at Nyhavn, last around three hours, and include helmets and radio equipment for seamless navigation.
Prefer to explore on your own? Rental bikes are available citywide, and Copenhagen’s dedicated bike lanes make cycling safe and enjoyable.
Afternoon: Visit Rosenborg Castle & discover Danish art at SMK
After your cycling tour, treat yourself to Copenhagen’s best smørrebrød at Restaurant Schønnemann—these traditional open-faced sandwiches are a must-try in Denmark! The restaurant serves classic Danish dishes in an authentic setting, though it leans toward the expensive side.
For a more budget-friendly option, visit TorvehallerneKBH, a vibrant indoor food market with stalls offering everything from Danish specialties to international cuisine. You’ll find fresh local produce, gourmet treats, drinks, and desserts.
Both spots are conveniently located near the next attraction: Rosenborg Castle, a masterpiece of Dutch Renaissance architecture and one of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the early 1600s by King Christian IV as a summer residence, it now serves as a museum showcasing Denmark’s royal history.
Set within the lush King’s Garden, the castle is surrounded by green spaces perfect for a relaxing stroll. Inside, you’ll find lavishly decorated rooms, historic portraits, and intricate ceiling paintings depicting gods of the earth, heavens, and oceans.
One of the highlights is the Treasury, where the Danish Crown Jewels and Crown Regalia—still used for royal ceremonies—are displayed.
To visit responsibly, consider booking e-tickets in advance to avoid long queues and reduce paper waste.
While you’re here, take a moment to enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens—one of Copenhagen’s oldest public parks and a prime example of sustainable urban green space.
After discovering the royal treasures at Rosenborg Castle, take a short walk to SMK – The National Gallery of Denmark, the country’s largest art museum. Home to over 200,000 artworks, SMK showcases Danish, Nordic, and international masterpieces spanning 700 years.
Beyond its vast collection, SMK offers interactive workshops and cultural activities throughout the year, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages.
If you need a break, relax at the museum’s cozy café or browse the museum shop for sustainably-made souvenirs, including books, posters, and artwork.
For those wanting to explore Danish culture beyond castles, SMK is a must-visit. Whether you’re drawn to classical paintings, contemporary art, or peaceful spaces, this museum provides an enriching, eco-friendly experience in the heart of Copenhagen.
Evening: Enjoy waterfront dining & a scenic sunset stroll
Just a short walk from the SMK Museum, wrap up your day with a relaxing stroll along Dronning Louises Bro (Queen Louise’s Bridge).
It’s a local favorite activity—especially at sunset, with people gathering by the water to enjoy a beer and soak in the lively atmosphere. There are plenty of benches on both sides, though it gets busier on weekends.
For dinner, there are many great restaurants along the waterfront. For fine dining featuring bold, modern dishes, Høst is a fantastic choice.
Plant-based travelers should also consider ARK, a vegan restaurant that offers a guided tasting experience of inventive dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The eatery even holds a Green Michelin Star!
Not too far away is also Restaurant Radio, another great choice for unique and sustainably-made dishes. You’ll have a creative New Nordic meal that you’ll never forget. It was started by Claus Meyer, who founded Noma, which has been recognized as the world’s best restaurant numerous times.
Day 2: Nature, Local Life & Copenhagen’s Food Scene
Morning: Kayak Copenhagen’s canals & swim in the harbour
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Union Kitchen or Mad & Kaffe—both among Copenhagen’s top brunch spots. If you prefer something light, my favorite, Juno Bakery, opens at 7:30 AM, perfect for grabbing a fresh Danish pastry before setting off on the day’s eco-friendly adventure!
GreenKayak is a fun and unique way to explore Copenhagen’s canals while helping to keep the Copenhagen waterways clean. The organization is a non-profit that has operated every summer from May to September since 2017.
They let you borrow a kayak for free under two simple conditions:
- Collect trash while you paddle and put it in a bucket attached to the kayak
- Share your experience on social media using the #GreenKayak hashtag to spread awareness
GreenKayak is available at various locations across Copenhagen. While walk-ins are possible, it’s best to book in advance, especially if you’re kayaking as a group.
Copenhagen’s canals are best explored from the water—and with GreenKayak, you get to enjoy the city while helping the environment and making a difference.
Afterward, cool off with a swim in the harbour. Copenhagen has dedicated Harbour Baths, making it one of the few cities where you can safely swim right in the middle of town!
Water quality is tested every morning, ensuring it’s clean and safe for swimmers. During summer, you’ll see locals of all ages taking a refreshing dip and enjoying the long sunny days. Some Harbour Baths even have lifeguards on duty.
Islands Brygge Harbour Bath is the most popular spot, with diving platforms, swimming lanes, and shallow areas for kids. That being said, you’ll have a few options for the best harbour baths in Copenhagen that are perfect for a dip.
Afternoon: Experience Freetown Christiania’s alternative culture & enjoy Nordic eats
Freetown Christiania, or simply Christiania, is one of Copenhagen’s most unique neighborhoods. Originally a military facility, it was abandoned after World War II and reclaimed by locals in 1971, who declared it a self-governing community.
Today, its residents live autonomously under their own rules, fostering a creative, free-spirited atmosphere. A walk through this car-free hippie town feels like stepping into a completely different world. It even has its own flag, rules, and architectural style, unlike anywhere else in Copenhagen.
Whenever I’m in the Christiania area, I love stopping by Café Nemoland, a French-Nordic bistro, for a beer and a great atmosphere.
And when it comes to food, Christianshavns Færgecafé is one of my favorites. Their smørrebrød and schnapps are a must-try—all while enjoying a charming waterfront setting.
The area is filled with colorful street art, graffiti, and murals, giving it a vibrant and free-spirited atmosphere. It’s a community built on communal living, self-expression, and a completely different way of life.
Visiting Christiania is a must on your 2 days in Copenhagen if you want to see a different side of the city.
There are plenty of things to do in Freetown Christiania, but just make sure to understand the important do’s and don’ts you should know before visiting. Always respect “No Photography” signs, and don’t take photographs at all on Pusher Street. Additionally, there is absolutely no hard drugs, theft, weapons, violence, or biker gang badges allowed.
Evening: Savor street food & live music at Reffen
Once an old shipyard, the Reffen Street Food Market is a lively space that has been transformed into a global food market. With over 40 food stalls, it’s the largest street food market in Copenhagen.
The warehouses and shipping containers have been creatively repurposed into restaurants, offering the best place to have a budget-friendly dinner to wrap up the day.
Beyond food, this spot features live music, entertainment, and exciting events. You can join in on a game of ping pong or pétanque with friends, try skateboarding, or even get a tattoo. As the evening rolls in, DJs, parties, and live music take over, creating a vibrant ambience.
It’s a fantastic place not to be missed on your 2 day Copenhagen itinerary. In winter, the space transforms into a large ice-skating rink. No matter when you visit, expect great food, a buzzing atmosphere, and endless entertainment.
Copenhagen Travel Map
To help give you a lay of the land, here is a Copenhagen map with the above-mentioned spot pre-plotted. Save it to your phone for easy exploration!
Sustainable Travel Tips For Copenhagen
Now that we’ve gone over what to include in your 2 day Copenhagen itinerary, let’s go over some tips to help make your trip even more sustainable:
1) With dedicated bike lanes, Copenhagen is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. You can rent a regular or electric bike and explore the city at your own pace. A 24-hour bike rental typically costs around 150 DKK, making it an affordable option—even in winter!
2) A Copenhagen Canal Tour is a must-do experience, offering a waterfront view and a unique way of exploring the city from the water. For an ethical travel option, go for electric boat tours, such as those offered by Stromma, that follow the same routes as the classic boat tours but with a more eco-travel approach.
If you prefer a self-guided adventure, rent a GoBoat and explore at your own pace.
3) Denmark has a deposit return system, where plastic bottles and cans can be recycled for store credit. Supermarkets have reverse vending machines where you can drop off bottles and get a receipt for purchases or donations. This encourages recycling and reduces waste across the country.
4) Tap water in Denmark is among the cleanest in the world, so carrying a reusable bottle—like this space-saving collabsible option—is a smart choice. Restaurants also provide tap water for free, so staying hydrated while exploring the city is easy and eco-friendly.
5) CopenPay is a summer initiative rewarding visitors for making climate-friendly choices. By engaging in sustainable activities, you can earn free attraction tickets, meals, or even a kayak tour.
Top Sustainable Hotels In Copenhagen
For a sustainable weekend in Copenhagen, all the hotels listed below are Green Key-certified, meaning they follow eco-friendly practices. Choosing one of these properties is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the best of Copenhagen.
🏨 Coco Hotel. This stylish 4-star boutique hotel features a green courtyard and a café. Located in the trendy Vesterbro district, it blends Scandinavian comfort with a sustainable approach. Recognized as the Best Hotel in Scandinavia 2023 by Travel & Leisure, it’s a top pick for eco-conscious travelers.
🏨 Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden. Immerse yourself in a romantic, Bali-inspired oasis with a stunning tropical indoor pool and sauna. This luxury hotel offers a unique escape in the heart of Copenhagen, perfect for couples. With easy access to public transport, it provides a serene retreat while keeping the city’s attractions within reach.
🏨 Copenhagen Admiral Hotel. Set in a beautifully restored 1780s warehouse, this waterfront hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort. Its prime location near Nyhavn means you’re just steps away from Copenhagen’s best attractions. The delicious on-site restaurant adds to the experience.
🏨 Hotel Ottilia. Once a Carlsberg brewery, it’s now a contemporary 4-star boutique hotel blending industrial heritage with modern luxury. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic city views while its location near the Meatpacking District ensures easy access to some of the best nightlife and breweries in town.
🏨 Absalon Hotel. A vibrant and family-friendly hotel in the heart of Vesterbro, featuring modern Scandinavian interiors. It’s within walking distance of Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Central Station, and various restaurants and bars. With spacious rooms and excellent service, it’s a great base for exploring the city.
➡️ You can also find hotels and self-contained stays using this Copenhagen accommodation map. It’s currently set to Copenhagen’s popular Nyhavn district, but you can easily change it to your preferred neighborhood:
FAQ About Planning A Sustainable 2 Day Trip To Copenhagen
Now that we’ve gone over where to stay and what to do, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about planning a 2 day Copenhagen itinerary:
Copenhagen’s sustainability stems from decades of forward-thinking policies, from waste management to energy-efficient buildings. The city’s clean harbor is a testament to its green initiatives, while cycling infrastructure and sustainable construction are seamlessly integrated. With a strong focus on renewable energy and eco-friendly habits, sustainability is a way of life for locals.
Spending 2 days in Copenhagen will give you a glimpse of the city, but it won’t be enough to experience everything it offers and you’ll likely have to rush through the top attractions. To truly soak in Copenhagen’s charm, you’ll need at least 5 days. If you’re short on time, plan wisely and focus on the must-see spots mentioned above.
Hygge (pronounced hoo-guh) is a Danish concept that embodies coziness, comfort, and a sense of well-being. It’s about enjoying simple pleasures, such as candlelit evenings, warm drinks, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere. More than just a lifestyle trend, hygge reflects Denmark’s cultural emphasis on balance, togetherness, and appreciating the little moments that bring joy and contentment.
On rainy days, visit castles like Rosenborg or Christiansborg, or dive into history at the National Museum or the Glyptotek. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a harbour bath—it’s a unique experience in the rain! For a cozy alternative, grab a Danish pastry and enjoy the hygge atmosphere in one of Copenhagen’s many charming cafés.
The cheapest months to visit Copenhagen are January to March when flights and hotel rates tend to be lower. However, keep in mind that this is also the coldest time of the year, and some major attractions, like Tivoli Gardens, are closed for winter. On the bright side, you’ll experience fewer crowds, enjoy hygge, and might even catch a magical snowfall. If budget is a priority, this is a great time to explore Copenhagen.
Yes, Copenhagen is an expensive city for tourists. Accommodation, public transportation, and dining out at restaurants can be pricey, making Denmark one of the most expensive countries to visit. However, there are numerous budget-friendly and free activities for tourists in Copenhagen that can help your wallet.
Final Thoughts On Visiting Copenhagen For 2 Days
When visiting Copenhagen, you’ll quickly see why it’s a global leader in green travel. The city’s dedication to sustainability is woven into everyday life. Copenhagen isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Two days might seem short, but it’s enough to fall in love with the city’s charm. Its mix of history, innovation, and sustainability creates a unique energy that’s hard to find anywhere else.
As you leave, you’ll take more than just great memories—you’ll carry a little inspiration for a more sustainable way of life.
One thing’s for sure: Copenhagen has a way of calling you back. Whether it’s for another leisurely bike ride along the waterfront, a winter dip in the icy harbour, or just another taste of its effortlessly cool hygge culture, your first visit definitely won’t be your last.
