Copenhagen is beautiful, but has a reputation for being incredibly expensive.
It really doesn’t have to be … here are my top 5 tips for a budget-conscious break :
1. Use public transport
Forget about taking a taxi from the airport – you have a choice of more budget-friendly options.
Bus 5A will take you into the city centre, or take the metro or train from Terminal 3 – you will need a ticket for three zones.
Once you’re in the city, make the most of a cheap and frequent bus service (with the next stop shown on displays) or the metro system.
Depending on how long your stay is, you have several ticket options.
And as the centre is compact, it’s a very walkable city – I felt safe walking around at all times of day. Just watch out for all the bicycles when you cross the road!
2. Stay slightly out the centre
Because it’s so easy to get around, it’s quick and easy to travel to all the sights.
I stayed in Norrebro, which was a flat walk or a five minute bus journey from the centre.
Everything, from accommodation to shops, is a bit more affordable if you don’t need to be in the middle of everything.
Plus, you get to see how the locals live, rather than seeing only other visitors.
3. Eat street food
Whether from food carts or markets, street food in Copenhagen is excellent quality. Before I went there, I’d never have thought a simple hot dog could be so delicious!
If you visit Freetown Christiana, you’ll find a variety of cheap, nutritious and delicious food places to choose from.
And don’t forget that if the weather is good, you can pick up picnic supplies from a supermarket, with pastries from a Bakers. Danish cinnamon rolls are irresistible!
Smorrebrod from a cafe or sandwich shop will be just as good as from a restaurant, at a fraction of the cost.
4. See the sights
Copenhagen is a beautiful city, with lots of places to see for free.
It costs nothing to walk along Nyhavn, or to visit the Little Mermaid.
And if you want a panoramic view, then the Tower of Christianborg Palace is free to visit, and a lift will take you up to a viewing platform.
5. Just relax!
Although it’s a capital city, Copenhagen has a much more relaxed feel than many provincial towns.
Go for a walk in one of the many parks, settle at a cafe with a drink or just find a pew and rest your feet after all that walking!
If you are near the Central Library, then sit in one of the deck chairs outside, or on one of the benches down towards the harbour. (The library also has excellent restroom facilities)
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Copenhagen in the summer, then there are plenty of free and accessible beaches and other places to go for a swim – the water is renowned for being clean!
I found Copenhagen residents to be open, friendly and really helpful – with excellent English language skills. So be brave, and don’t worry about asking the locals what they recommend!
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