I was born and raised in Copenhagen and have lived here for most of my life (apart from a few years spent in Berlin and New York City). This city feels like home, and I could navigate it effortlessly.
Living abroad allowed me to reflect on Danish culture and what makes Copenhagen unique. One remarkable aspect is the strong bike culture, which I took for granted until I experienced life in other cities.
1. The Metro is the Most Affordable Way to Travel from the Airport
Copenhagen’s efficient driverless metro connects the airport to the city center in less than 15 minutes, making it a savvy transportation choice upon arrival. A metro ticket costs just 34kr.
2. Explore Copenhagen in Just Three Days
This charming city is small, with short distances between attractions. With effective planning, you can explore the Danish capital in only three days. However, if you wish to experience Copenhagen more authentically, consider extending your stay and exploring nearby cities, such as Helsingør, home to Kronborg Castle, or the renowned Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Humlebæk.
3. Embrace Scandinavian Fashion
Scandinavia is famous for its stylish fashion. Numerous stores, ranging from well-known brands like H&M to trendy labels such as Ganni, Samsøe Samsøe, and Rains, are waiting for you. Wearing Scandinavian designs can help you blend in with the locals, so pack weather-appropriate clothing, including a waterproof jacket.
4. Discover Budget-Friendly Options in Copenhagen
While Copenhagen is often viewed as an expensive destination, many options allow visitors to enjoy the city without spending excessively. From visiting museums and parks to exploring vibrant neighborhoods, you can find countless activities that are budget-friendly or even free.
5. Danes Prefer Using Cutlery for Everything
One amusing aspect of Danish culture is that locals typically use a knife and fork for nearly all types of food, including burgers and pizza. If you find this strange, feel free to eat with your hands. When dining, Danes adhere to certain etiquette rules learned from an early age, such as keeping elbows off the table and signaling when finished by placing their knife and fork appropriately.
6. Nyhavn is Primarily a Tourist Spot
Although Nyhavn’s vibrant houses make it one of Copenhagen’s most iconic sites, locals generally do not frequent this area. Nonetheless, visiting Nyhavn to take pictures and soak in the atmosphere is still worthwhile. Instead of dining in crowded tourist spots, consider enjoying coffee or a drink by the canals, preferably where the ships dock.
7. Always Take a Sip After Toasting
Danes have a fondness for toasting during meals, typically at least a few times. When raising a glass, say Skål! (“cheers” in Danish) and remember to take a sip before placing your glass down.
8. Danes Are Generally Laid-Back…
Some may consider them too relaxed. This attitude is closely tied to Danish humor, which often leans toward the dark, ironic, and satirical. Consequently, the use of swear words is quite casual in Danish conversations among friends and isn’t regarded as offensive as it might be in other cultures.
9. … Except When It Comes to Timeliness
Punctuality is vital in Danish culture. Many Danes believe arriving on time means being a few minutes early. This belief stems from a cultural emphasis on politeness and respect for each other’s time, so if you’re running late by more than 15 minutes, it may be perceived as rude.
10. Biking is a Way of Life
Bikes outnumber cars in Copenhagen, showcasing the city’s vibrant biking culture. To truly blend in, consider biking as your mode of transport. However, there are essential cycling rules to observe. For locals, cycling is primarily a means of getting around, not a leisure activity. Avoid busy bike lanes during rush hours (7:15–8:45 am and 3:30–5 pm), and always stay to the far right. Signal turns and stops to ensure safe riding.
11. Drink the Tap Water
The tap water in Copenhagen is incredibly clean, allowing residents to swim in the city harbor year-round. To minimize plastic waste and save money, always carry a reusable water bottle. You can easily refill it at your accommodation or any of the city’s drinking fountains.
12. Copenhagen is Among the Safest Cities
In 2021, Copenhagen topped the Economist’s Safe Cities Index, thanks to low crime rates and high social trust inherent in Danish culture. While it’s always wise to exercise common sense regarding your safety, overall, you can feel secure exploring this beautiful city. As with any travel destination, avoid showcasing valuables in public.
13. Emergency Contact: 112
In case of emergencies during your time in Copenhagen, remember that 112 is the number to reach police, fire, and ambulance services.
This article was first published Aug 27, 2022, and updated on Jan 23, 2024.
