Wonderful Wonderful Copenhagen

There’s a reason people break into song when they talk about Copenhagen. Denmark’s effortlessly cool capital has become one of Europe’s most popular short-break destinations – and once you visit, it’s easy to see why. Compact, stylish and packed with culture, Copenhagen delivers world-class food, design and history in a city you can explore almost entirely on foot or by bike.

If you’re looking for a weekend that blends cosy cafés, colourful waterfronts and cutting-edge cuisine, wonderful wonderful Copenhagen might just be your perfect getaway.

Why Copenhagen Is Perfect for a Short Break

One of Copenhagen’s greatest strengths is its size. Unlike sprawling capitals where you spend half your trip on public transport, Copenhagen is refreshingly manageable. From the airport, you can be in the city centre in around 15 minutes by metro, and most major attractions sit within easy reach of one another.

It’s also:

• Easy to navigate – flat, pedestrian-friendly and brilliantly connected by bike lanes.

• English-speaking and welcoming – almost everyone speaks excellent English.

• Stylish but relaxed – high design without the pretension.

• Seasonal and atmospheric – magical Christmas markets in winter, long light-filled evenings in summer.

Add in its reputation for sustainability, safety and consistently high quality across hotels, restaurants and attractions, and it’s clear why so many travellers choose Copenhagen for a long weekend escape.

Why People Love Visiting Copenhagen

1. The Hygge Factor

You can’t talk about Copenhagen without mentioning hygge – the Danish concept of cosy contentment. Think candlelit cafés, soft lighting, warm pastries and good conversation. Whether you visit in the crisp winter months or on a breezy summer evening, the city has an intimate, comforting feel.

2. Design and Architecture

Copenhagen is a global design capital. Clean lines, minimalist interiors and functional beauty are everywhere – from furniture shops and museums to metro stations and even coffee cups. The city blends historic buildings with striking modern architecture, including waterfront developments and contemporary cultural spaces.

3. Foodie Heaven

This is one of Europe’s culinary hotspots. Copenhagen helped pioneer New Nordic cuisine, and its restaurant scene ranges from Michelin-starred fine dining to laid-back street food markets. But perhaps most famously of all, its patisseries are world renowned.

What to See in Copenhagen

Despite being compact, the city is packed with must-see sights.

Nyhavn

The postcard-perfect harbour lined with colourful 17th-century townhouses is Copenhagen’s most iconic image. Once home to writer Hans Christian Andersen, today it’s filled with cafés and restaurants where you can sit waterside and soak up the atmosphere.

Tivoli Gardens

One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli is charming rather than flashy. Visit in the evening when thousands of lights illuminate the gardens for a truly magical experience.

The Little Mermaid

Small but symbolic, this statue inspired by Andersen’s fairy tale is a classic Copenhagen photo stop.

Christiansborg Palace

Home to the Danish Parliament and royal reception rooms, this grand palace offers panoramic city views from its tower.

The National Museum of Denmark

Perfect for a cultural afternoon, covering everything from Viking history to modern Danish life.

Freetown Christiania

A self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood with an alternative vibe, colourful murals and independent spirit.

And if you simply wander, you’ll find elegant squares, canal views and stylish boutiques around every corner.

What to Eat in Copenhagen

Food is one of the main reasons people flock to Copenhagen – and rightly so.

Smørrebrød

These beautifully presented open-faced sandwiches are a Danish classic. Topped with everything from pickled herring to roast beef and remoulade, they’re as photogenic as they are delicious.

Fresh Seafood

Being a coastal city, Copenhagen excels at seafood. Expect oysters, prawns and fresh fish served with simple, seasonal ingredients.

Street Food

Head to one of the city’s food markets for a casual but high-quality bite. You’ll find everything from Nordic hot dogs to international cuisine.

Copenhagen’s World-Renowned Patisseries

If there’s one indulgence you shouldn’t skip, it’s the pastries. Danish baking is legendary, and Copenhagen’s patisseries are considered among the finest in the world.

Of course, there’s the famous Danish pastry – buttery, flaky and often filled with custard, almond paste or cinnamon. But that’s just the beginning.

Look out for:

• Kanelsnegle – Danish cinnamon swirls.

• Spandauer – custard-filled pastries topped with icing.

• Fastelavnsboller – seasonal cream buns (especially popular before Lent).

• Rugbrød-based sweet treats – inventive twists on traditional rye bread.

Many bakeries combine traditional techniques with modern Nordic flair, resulting in pastries that are beautifully crafted, lightly sweet and perfectly balanced. Pair one with expertly brewed coffee in a candlelit café and you’ll understand why Copenhagen’s bakery scene has earned international acclaim.

How to Get There: Budget Airlines & Flight Tips

Part of what makes Copenhagen such a popular short-break destination for UK travellers is how easy and affordable it is to fly there.

Thanks to a wide range of airlines flying direct from major UK airports, you can often find return flights for under £50–£60 if you book early or travel in shoulder season.

✈️ Popular UK Airlines Flying to Copenhagen

Here are some of the key carriers that fly direct between the UK and Copenhagen Airport (CPH):

• Ryanair – often among the cheapest options from London, Bristol and beyond.

• easyJet – year-round routes from London, Bristol, Edinburgh and Manchester.

• Norwegian – direct services, including seasonal options from Newcastle and Edinburgh.

• Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) – full-service carrier with flights from Heathrow, Birmingham and more.

• British Airways – year-round connections from Heathrow with more generous baggage allowances.

💡 Insider tips:

• Flight deals often appear when you book 4–8 weeks in advance.

• Consider flying mid-week for lower fares.

• Budget airline fares may charge extra for bags, seat selection and priority boarding — factor that into your travel budget.

With a flight time of just under 2 hours from the UK, Copenhagen is ideal for a long weekend or mini-break without losing time in transit.

Where to Stay: Hotels for Every Budget

Copenhagen isn’t the cheapest city in Europe — but with smart planning, you can find great hotel options whether you’re on a shoestring or celebrating a special trip.

💸 Budget & Mid-Range Stays

• Wakeup Copenhagen, Borgergade – Great value in the heart of the city, perfect for travellers who want simplicity without compromising location.

• Zoku Copenhagen – Stylish, modern rooms with a local vibe and reasonable rates.

• Copenhagen Island – Unique waterside property that often delivers excellent deals.

• 66 Guldsmeden & Axel Guldsmeden Hotels – Scandinavian boutique stays with eco-friendly design and comfort without sky-high prices.

🏙️ Comfortable Mid-Range Choices

• Hotel NH Copenhagen Grand Joanne – Chic hotel close to attractions and transport links.

• Copenhagen Marriott Hotel – Spacious rooms and great views along the harbour.

• Andersen Hotel – Stylish Vesterbro spot with excellent reviews.

• Hotel NH Collection Copenhagen – Slightly more premium with added comfort.

🛌 Luxury & Special Occasion Hotels

• Nobis Hotel Copenhagen – Sleek, design-led luxury in the centre.

• Copenhagen Admiral Hotel – Historic property with a prime waterfront location.

• Radisson Collection Royal Hotel, Copenhagen – Iconic architectural landmark with upscale service.

• Villa Copenhagen – Contemporary luxury with top-tier amenities.

• Nimb Hotel, an SLH Hotel & Hotel D'Angleterre – Ultra-luxury experiences if you’re celebrating something special.

💡 Money-saving tips:

• Staying just outside the main city centre or booking well in advance can significantly reduce nightly rates.

• Many hotels near central stations or metro lines offer easy access without premium prices.

When to Visit

Copenhagen works year-round:

• Spring and summer bring long daylight hours, harbour swims and al fresco dining.

• Autumn offers crisp air and cosy cafés.

• Winter transforms the city into a festive wonderland, especially around Tivoli’s Christmas market.

Copenhagen manages to be both relaxed and exciting, historic and forward-thinking, indulgent and wholesome. It’s a city where you can cycle along the harbour in the morning, explore royal palaces in the afternoon and finish the day with Michelin-starred cuisine or a candlelit pastry stop.

For a stylish, culture-rich and delicious short break, wonderful wonderful Copenhagen truly lives up to its name.