Taking a solo trip to Copenhagen is a no-brainer because it is a very liveable city brimming with history and some of the best pastries in the world (my opinion). Simply put, it is one of the best cities to solo travel to because it is easy to explore and scenic. 

In this solo trip to Copenhagen guide, learn about the best things to do alone in the city and ideas for day trips outside of Copenhagen. I will also share basic information regarding transportation, accommodation, and safety. 

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Why Should You Take a Solo Trip to Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark. Denmark is known as having some of the world’s highest standards of living. It is important to note that traveling to Copenhagen is expensive, but it is definitely worth spending a bit more. 

Solo traveling admittedly is intimidating. However, Copenhagen’s world-class public transportation, bike lanes, cozy cafes, and historic churches are ready to welcome you to the world of solo traveling. 

Want to visit more of Europe? Read My Europe Backpacking Itinerary: Visit 10+ Countries in 30 Days

Is It Safe To Travel to Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is known as one of the safest cities in Europe and the world, making it a popular choice for solo female travelers. As in any major city, beware of pickpocketing at popular tourist spots and on the metro. However, the pickpocketing is minimal compared to other popular European cities.

Walking through Freetown Christiania is considered safe, but it is not advised to purchase any controlled substances here. Generally, your biggest safety threat is bikes. (Yes, bikes). Make sure not to walk in bike lanes because bikes rule the roads here. Be careful cycling here and learn the proper cycle signals. 

If you are mindful of where you are walking and remain aware of your surroundings, you will feel very safe here. Many travelers report feeling safe walking alone at night. You can also purchase travel insurance for extra peace of mind when you take your solo trip to Copenhagen. 

Where Should You Stay During Your Copenhagen Solo Trip?

Copenhagen’s biggest drawback for backpackers is how expensive it is. Even hostels can break the budget. Make sure to book your hostels early, especially if you are coming in summer. 

I stayed in Copenhagen for two weeks without paying for accommodation because I volunteered for a family on Worldpackers. You can look for similar volunteer experiences where you exchange work for free accommodation. 

If you aren’t up to volunteering, I recommend Steel House Copenhagen because it has great reviews, nice amenities, and helpful staff. Steel House is also located in a charming neighborhood and has a great local feel! 

How Do You Get Around Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is compact and designed for walking and biking. Everyone, and I mean…everyone bikes around here. If you are up to biking here, you still get around well on foot. When your feet need a rest, just look for the nearest red “M” sign to take the metro. 

Copenhagen also has an unmatched metro system. To use the metro, use the Rejsebillet App. You can purchase metro day passes or single tickets that last around 60 to 90 minutes. 

The metro is fast, efficient, and easy to understand, but it can be a bit expensive. Expect to spend at least $3 USD per ride. These tickets also work on city buses. You can also take the metro directly from the airport, which is very convenient. 

When Should You Take Your Copenhagen Solo Trip?

Summer (June to August)  is the most popular time to visit Copenhagen. The days are long (sun doesn’t set till after 10 pm), and the weather is mild (average of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit), so it doesn’t get too hot. However, this time is typically more expensive, and attractions get crowded. 

If you are willing to have a bit colder temperatures and the chance for more rainy days, come in May to escape the summer crowds. September and October also offer fewer crowds and still some pleasant weather. Winter here is not terribly cold, but it can be wet, and it gets dark very early here. 

1. Get an Iconic Photo of Nyhavn

Chances are, you know Copenhagen from this scenic landmark. It is a colorful strip of historic buildings alongside a quaint canal. The restaurants here are expensive, and this is a very touristy area. 

However, even the most tourist-adverse solo traveler can’t miss getting some photos here. It is too hard to resist. You can take a canal tour here if you are up to it, or join the rest of the tourists attempting to get the most Instagram-worthy photo. 

2. Explore Rosenborg Castle and King’s Garden 

Copenhagen is home to many castles. Rosenborg Castle is one of the most famous in the country and is located in the heart of Copenhagen. The highlight of visiting this historic castle is seeing the crown jewels. 

If you want to save money and spend the day like a local, bask in the sun at the adjacent King’s Garden. This manicured outdoor space offers a stunning green space for city-goers to enjoy for free. 

3. Queue in Line To See the Little Mermaid

Besides getting a photo of Nyhavn, the next most “basic tourist” thing to do is to see the Little Mermaid Statue. Many travelers report it is underwhelming, and I agree, but regardless, you should see this symbol of Copenhagen. 

4. Stroll Along the Citadel Fortress

Near the popular Little Mermaid Statue is the Citadel Fortress. This active military facility is one of the best-preserved naval military fortresses in Europe. It is a great place for a long walk on a sunny day. 

This fortress is shaped like a star and offers great views of the harbor and St. Alban’s Church. Nearby, you can see the Gefion Fountain, a large monument depicting Norse mythology of Denmark’s founding. 

5. Climb up the Round Tower 

Copenhagen surprisingly has many observatories that offer expansive views of the city. One of the most interesting is the Round Tower, or Rundetaarn. 

This tower has an unforgettable spiral ramp that takes visitors up to an open-air viewpoint. During your trek to the top, there are a few exhibitions you can check out to learn more about the tower’s history. 

The tower’s claim to fame is that it is Europe’s oldest functioning observatory. King Christian IV had it built for astronomy purposes nearly 400 years ago. 

6. Tour Historic Churches Without Spending a Dime

The bottom section of the Round Tower is a church, and it is a beautiful building to explore. In Central Copenhagen, make sure to also visit Frederik’s Church and marvel at the largest dome in Scandinavia. Marveling at spiritual places is a must-do for a solo trip to Copenhagen.

7. Explore Freetown Christiania

Christiania was founded in the 1970s as an alternative community where people could live freely without paying taxes or following other conventions of modern life. It has been known for being the site of illegal drug activity. 

Today, it is a place for visitors to explore an interesting historic area where some people still live. You should refrain from taking pictures in certain spots and show respect to residents. There are gift shops here, cafes, and art installations. It is an interesting space, but I think best to experience on a guided tour. 

8. Climb the Spire of the Church of Our Saviour

The Round Tower is not the only church that offers views over Copenhagen. Very close to Freetown Christiania, you will find Vor Frelsers Kirke, or the Church of Our Saviour. The inside of the church is pretty, but climbing the church’s spire is unforgettable.

The golden spire is the tallest church tower in Copenhagen. To reach the top, you will navigate an outdoor spiraling staircase that gets narrower and narrower with each turn.

As you can imagine, it can get crowded up there. However, the church does offer tickets in staggered time slots. This is not the activity for someone fearful of heights and tight spaces, but the views are incredible. It is a really unique experience to have during a solo trip to Copenhagen. 

9. Go Cafe Hopping 

Chances are, you have heard of a Danish Pastry. This famed baked good started due to bakery workers’ striking in the 1800s. Danish bakers were then replaced for Austrain bakers who brought new recipes to Denmark. All that is to say that Copenhagen has a rich baking history.

There are so many cafes and bakeries across the city. Some of my favorites are Andersen Bakery, Andersen & Maillard, and Bageriet Brød. However, my best advice is to just stumble into whatever bakery or coffee shop you find. I doubt you will be disappointed. 

10. Eat Your Way Through Lively Food Halls 

Eating out in Copenhagen is expensive. To save some money, hit up various food courts spread across the city. From the outdoor Broens Street Food to the covered TorvehallerneKBH, there are plenty of casual food spaces to satisfy your hunger needs. 

You can save money at these casual dining spaces, but they are still costly. The cheapest way to get food during your solo trip to Copenhagen is to use the app Too Good To Go. On the app, you can reserve surprise bags from many bakeries and restaurants. You can’t choose what surplus food you will receive, but you can end up getting a meal for less than 10 USD. 

11. Spend a Rainy Day Learning at the National Museum of Denmark

Copenhagen is a fairly rainy place. Chances are, you will get a rainy or cloudy day during your solo trip to Copenhagen. The perfect activity during a rainy day is to hit the National Museum of Denmark. 

At the museum, the staff insisted I scan the QR code for the museum’s map, and after visiting, I knew why they were so insistent. The museum is so large. You can spend hours here on one floor. 

There’s comprehensive history about the Danish colonial past, shocking exhibitions on Vikings, and collections from across the world. The National Museum of Denmark can keep you engaged for hours. 

12. Marvel at Christiansborg Palace and Its Free Tower

Ready to explore another castle in Copenhagen? Unlike Rosenborg, which is somewhat bare inside, Christiansborg Palace is grand and elegant. It was once the home to kings and queens; now it is home to the Danish Parliament.

You can tour the staterooms and marvel at the beautiful Great Hall for about $30 USD. If you are on a strict budget, you can enjoy Christiansborg’s free observatory! You might have to wait a few minutes to go through security, up the elevator to the tower, but it is well worth it. 

13. Rest at the Garden of the Royal Library

Besides the Christiansborg Tower, there is another great (free) space near Christiansborg Palace. Behind the castle and somewhat tucked away is the Garden of the Royal Library. 

This small garden offers a pristine, peaceful atmosphere in central Copenhagen. It is not the most exciting place to visit during your solo trip to Copenhagen, but its manicured trees and clear fountains make this place one of Copenhagen’s cutest hidden spots. 

14. Wander Through the Royal Library 

After walking through the Garden of the Royal Library, it is time to visit the Royal Library, right? This massive public library is very different from the historic Christiansborg Castle nearby. It is modern and known as the Black Diamond. 

15. Take a Day Trip to Roskilde 

Copenhagen is a great launching off point to further explore Denmark. From the city, you can take a train for 30 minutes to the historic Roskilde. Roskilde is a perfect day trip.

Tour the Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and then walk to the harbor to visit the Viking Ship Museum. This is not your average museum. Here, you will find the remains of five Viking Ships that were sunk in the Fjord for self-defense nearly a thousand years ago. 

16. Drive To Scenic Chalk Cliffs

If you are willing to rent a car or book a tour, you can also visit some stunning white chalk cliffs. Møns Klint is the most popular spot, but you can also visit Stevns Klint.

In addition to these being stunning places to hike, they are also geologically important and home to many fossils! Maybe you will discover a new species during your solo trip. 

17. Hit the Beach

Copenhagen might not seem like a “beach town,” but there are surprisingly some good spots for a beach trip. The closest beach spot to Central Copenhagen is Amager Beachpark, and it can be reached from the metro. Just take the metro to the Amager Strand stop. 

18. Picnic Like a Local at Frederiksberg Slot

Remember when I said Copenhagen has a lot of castles… well here’s another one. You can tour the French baroque-style Frederiksberg Slot on the last Saturday of each month, but most people don’t come here for a public tour.

Instead, this castle is a great spot for a picnic and a park stroll during your solo trip to Copenhagen. The castle is set on a hill and is surrounded by tons of green space. You will even find the Copenhagen Zoo here. 

19. See Hans Christian Andersen Tomb

In the hip neighborhood of Nørrebro, go for a stroll in Assistens Cemetery. It is a nice place to escape the lively streets and bike traffic. 

The most famous grave here marks the resting place of the writer Hans Christian Andersen. After exploring the grounds, queue up at Andersen & Maillard for an espresso-flaked croissant. Sound like the perfect day during your solo trip to Copenhagen, right? 

20. Take in the Church That Inspired Shrek 

Grundtvigs Kirke is a massive cathedral located a few minutes outside of Central Copenhagen. Bike here or take a bus to reach this church known as the “Shrek” church. 

If you are unfamiliar with that movie, you will still find this grand church strikingly beautiful. Due to the church’s reputation as the inspiration for a scene in “Shrek,” this place of worship can turn into a scene of camera clicks. Remember to be respectful of the sacred space if you visit this spot. 

21. Relax in a Charming Port Town

Outside of Central Copenhagen, on the island of Amager, is Dragør. This small old town has a charming vibe that cannot be replicated. Walk around the Dragør havn (harbor) for sea views and to eat yummy seafood. 

Then, go up the nearby Dragør Fort for impressive views of the Øresund Bridge that connects Denmark to Sweden. Dragør is worth a visit during your Copenhagen solo trip. 

22. Cycle Around Amager

You might not expect to find unspoiled nature so close to Copenhagen, but the island of Amager offers just that. Tourists go through Amager without even realizing because it is home to the airport. However, they fail to realize all that Amager has to offer. 

Kalvebod Fælled is a massive bird sanctuary that offers pristine paved bike paths along the coast, attracting skilled cyclists each day. Nearby the nature park, you can even hike to a gigantic troll statue and old military fort. 

If you are up for a challenge, locals even try to walk the entire Amager coast. The loop is 27 miles and takes 10 hours. That would be an unforgettable quest to do during your solo trip to Copenhagen. 

23. Watch the Guards Change at Amalienborg Palace

During your solo trip to Copenhagen, you should see the home of the Danish monarchy. Near the Little Mermaid statue, you will find Amalienborg Palace. Its large courtyard features the changing of the guards, which takes place each day at noon. 

24. Smell the Flowers of the Botanical Garden 

Part of Denmark’s Natural History Museum is the free Botanical Garden. This greenspace is a nice place to relax during a solo trip to Copenhagen. However, the crown jewel of the park, the Palm House, does require an entry fee. 

25. Learn More About Danish Art at Ordrupgaard

Take a quick bus ride up to Ordrupgaard. This art museum features famous French and Danish pieces. It is a really interesting space that allows visitors to step into a world of beauty and intention. 

Now, Take a Solo Trip to Copenhagen

Castles for days, world-class cycle routes, and pastries that seem otherworldly, Copenhagen has a lot to offer to solo travelers. Sometimes, the most memorable solo trips are the ones that are easy and carefree. Copenhagen will certainly offer that.