Our guide on the most common Mistakes To Avoid In Copenhagen for your next trip to Denmark.
Copenhagen is a vibrant, friendly, and culturally rich city, but like any popular tourist destination, there are common pitfalls that can make your visit less enjoyable.
Here are some key mistakes to avoid when visiting Copenhagen, along with tips to enhance your travel experience.
Read here 2 Days Copenhagen Itinerary, Denmark sim card for tourist, Danish food, 48 hours in Copenhagen and if you want to read my adventures traveling by bicycle in Denmark
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Common Mistakes To Avoid In Copenhagen
1. Overlooking Bicycle Rules
Copenhagen is renowned for its bike-friendly culture, with extensive bicycle lanes and rentals available city-wide. However, tourists often underestimate the seriousness with which locals take their biking rules.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Learn Basic Rules: Understand basic signals and right of way. Always stay to the right in bike lanes, signal turns, and check over your shoulder before maneuvering.
Rent a Bike: Experience the city like a local but make sure you’re comfortable with urban cycling.
2. Misunderstanding Dining Costs
Copenhagen can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to dining out. Tourists are sometimes caught off guard by the high prices in restaurants.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Budget Accordingly: Plan for higher food costs or opt for alternatives like street food or food markets, which are significantly cheaper.
Explore Local Markets: Try visiting Torvehallerne or Copenhagen Street Food for more affordable and diverse food options.
3. Neglecting to Explore Beyond the City Center
While the city center offers stunning architecture and history, only exploring this area can limit your experience of Copenhagen’s full charm.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Venture Out: Visit other neighborhoods like Vesterbro, Nørrebro, or the redeveloped meatpacking district, Kødbyen, for a broader sense of Copenhagen’s culture.
Use Public Transport: Copenhagen’s public transport system is efficient and can take you to less touristy areas that are worth exploring.
4. Not Booking in Advance
Popular attractions such as Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, and museums can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Pre-book Tickets: Ensure you book online in advance for major attractions to avoid long lines and potential sell-outs.
Visit Early or Late: Try to visit popular spots early in the morning or later towards closing to avoid large crowds.
Click here to book online Copenhagen activities and day trips
5. Ignoring Free Museum Days
Many museums in Copenhagen offer days when admission is free, but tourists often miss out on these opportunities.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Check Schedules: Before your trip, check the websites of museums you plan to visit to see if they offer free admission on certain days.
6. Underestimating Weather Variability
Copenhagen’s weather can be quite unpredictable, and visitors sometimes find themselves unprepared for sudden weather changes.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Pack Layers: Bring versatile clothing options that can handle a bit of rain and fluctuating temperatures.
Always Have an Umbrella: Being prepared for rain can greatly improve your comfort and experience.
7. Not Having Enough Danish Kroner
While many places in Copenhagen accept credit cards, there are still small shops and markets that do not.
Avoiding Mistakes:
Carry Some Cash: Have some Danish Kroner on hand for smaller purchases where credit cards might not be accepted.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy a smoother and more authentic experience in Copenhagen. The city offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation, and with the right preparation, it can be a delightful destination for any traveler.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.