Copenhagen

Hygge & Happiness – Your Budget-Friendly Nordic Dream!

Discover Viking History, Cutting-Edge Architecture & Lush Nature

Prepare to be charmed by Copenhagen, Denmark's captivating capital – a city consistently ranked among the happiest in the world! This vibrant metropolis effortlessly blends royal grandeur with cutting-edge design, historic canals with modern architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere with a buzzing culinary scene. While Scandinavia often carries a reputation for being expensive, "Holiday Budgets" travellers will be thrilled to discover that Copenhagen offers an incredibly diverse and accessible experience, proving that a delightful Nordic adventure doesn't have to cost a fortune.


Imagine cycling along picturesque harbour fronts, exploring a quirky, self-governing community, or indulging in delicious street food from vibrant markets – all in one incredible trip! Copenhagen is a city that delights all your senses, offering a kaleidoscope of charming neighbourhoods, world-class design, and culinary treats that will leave you utterly captivated. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a design lover, a food adventurer, or simply someone looking for an affordable yet enriching European city break, Copenhagen promises an engaging adventure that proves its unique blend of "hygge" (coziness) and innovation is within everyone's reach.

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Getting There from the UK

Getting to Copenhagen from the UK is very straightforward and offers several convenient and budget-friendly options:


  • Flights: Direct flights are widely available to Copenhagen Airport (CPH) from numerous UK airports including London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI), and more. Airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, Norwegian, and SAS offer frequent services. Flight time is typically around 1 hour 45 minutes.
  • Train/Coach (longer journey): While a direct train isn't feasible, you can combine train and ferry journeys. Coach services like FlixBus also offer routes from London, though these are significantly longer (9-12 hours) and often involve changes. These are generally the cheapest options, if time isn't a constraint.

Visa Information for UK Travellers

Good news for British passport holders! You generally do not need a visa to enter Denmark (and therefore Copenhagen) for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.


  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen area and have been issued within the last 10 years. It should also have at least two blank pages for stamps.
  • Schengen Area: Denmark is part of the Schengen Area. This means the 90-day limit applies to your total stay across all Schengen countries.
  • EES/ETIAS (Future): From around October 2025 (estimated), UK citizens will need to register for EES (Entry/Exit System) upon entry to the Schengen Area, and then from mid-2025 (estimated), apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travel. This is not a visa but a pre-travel authorisation. Keep an eye on FCDO advice for precise implementation dates.

Currency Information

The official currency of Copenhagen, and Denmark, is the Danish Krone (DKK). One krone is divided into 100 øre.


  • Denominations: Banknotes come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 Kroner. Coins are 50 øre, and 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 Kroner.
  • Card vs. Cash: Denmark is a highly cashless society. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are universally accepted, even for small purchases. You might go your entire trip without needing cash, though it's always useful to have a small amount for emergencies or very small local stalls.
  • ATMs: ATMs (Hæveautomat) are widely available throughout the city.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included, but it's customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants and cafes.

Language Lowdown: Hej, København!

The official language of Copenhagen is Danish. However, you'll be delighted to know that English is incredibly widely spoken and understood throughout Copenhagen, especially by younger generations and in all tourist-facing establishments (hotels, restaurants, shops, museums). Danes are known for their excellent English proficiency, often speaking it fluently. Nevertheless, learning a few basic Danish phrases is a polite gesture and will be genuinely appreciated by locals, adding a touch of "hygge" to your interactions.

Here are a few useful phrases to charm the Copenhageners:


  • Hello: Hej (high) / God dag (go-dahg) (Good day)
  • Thank you: Tak (tahk)
  • Please: Vær så venlig (vair soh ven-lee)
  • Yes: Ja (yah)
  • No: Nej (nye)
  • Excuse me/Sorry: Undskyld (oon-shool)

Copenhagen's Coolest Corners: Must-See & Must-Do!

Get ready to soak up Danish design, history, and happy vibes!

Nyhavn & The Little Mermaid: Postcard Perfection!

01

Start your exploration at the iconic Nyhavn (New Harbour), famous for its colourful 17th-century townhouses, charming boats, and lively atmosphere. It's a fantastic spot for photos and people-watching – completely free! From here, take a leisurely stroll along the harbour to find the world-famous Little Mermaid statue, a symbol of Copenhagen, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale. Both are easily accessible and don't cost a penny.

02

Freetown Christiania: A Unique Urban Experiment!

Step into a truly unique and controversial part of Copenhagen: Freetown Christiania. This self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood operates under its own set of rules, known for its creative atmosphere, colourful houses, alternative lifestyle, and street art. It's fascinating to explore on foot, observe its unique social experiment, and soak in the counter-cultural vibe. Entry is free, but be mindful of local rules, especially regarding photography.

03

Explore the Royal Palaces (from the Outside!) & Gardens: Regal Grandeur!

Copenhagen boasts several stunning royal palaces.


  • Amalienborg Palace: The official residence of the Danish Royal Family. Witness the changing of the guard daily at 12 pm – a grand and free spectacle!
  • Rosenborg Castle (Kongens Have): While the interior requires a ticket, the surrounding King's Garden (Kongens Have) is free to explore, perfect for a picnic.
  • Christiansborg Palace: Home to the Danish Parliament. You can often walk through parts of the palace grounds and even ascend the Tower (Tårnet) for free for incredible panoramic views of the city.

04

Strøget & The Latin Quarter: Shopping & Strolling!

Wander along Strøget, one of Europe's longest pedestrian streets, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. While shopping can be expensive, window shopping is free! Explore the charming side streets leading off Strøget into the Latin Quarter, known for its bohemian atmosphere, independent boutiques, vintage shops, and student vibe. Discover hidden courtyards, quaint cafes, and colourful architecture – a great way to experience local life.

Copenhagen: Your Happy & Hearty Nordic Adventure!

Copenhagen is a city that truly lives up to its reputation for happiness and effortless style, offering a captivating blend of royal heritage, cutting-edge design, and a profound sense of community. For the "Holiday Budgets" traveller, Copenhagen is a delightful surprise, providing endless opportunities to explore its unique charm, enjoy its vibrant culture, and savour its delicious cuisine without stretching your finances.


So, pack your sense of adventure, your comfortable shoes, and your "Holiday Budgets" savvy – Copenhagen is waiting to reveal its magical "hygge" to you. Get ready to fall in love with its picturesque canals, its cycling culture, and its countless captivating moments. Your Danish dream, perfectly tailored for your budget, awaits!