In July 2026, I went to Denmark for Doist Connect in Billund and got some days to explore Copenhagen.

I literally went for this trip with no plans, and decided to decide what to do once I got there. It's been a while since I was able to add some extra days for myself in a Doist retreat, and felt good.

Stay

I stayed at Wakeup Copenhagen (Bernstorffsgade 35). A budget-friendly option with a good location. I didn't check for carpet when booking the room (I'm allergic) and had a surprise when I got in, as I could definitely feel the carpet. After some time with the open window and air conditioning fan, I felt better. Didn't feel anything else in the next days.

The staff was helpful and polite every time I talked to them. They have a nice lounge for people to work or have some snacks.

Transport

Bbikes everywhere! If I had to choose something, I would pick one to ride around the city.

My hotel was very well located and I decided to walk everywhere (I really like walking!). The train station is 10-15 minutes away from the hotel, which made the transition quite easy.

Places

  • Nyhavn: The iconic harbor lined with 17th and 18th-century townhouses. It is beautiful, especially at sunset.
    • The Round Tower (RundetĂĽrn): A historic observatory with a unique spiral ramp. The view from the top is nice, and they were having an exposition about the danish guy who observed the speed of the light (forgot the name and I'm typing this on the plane, no internet connection 😅), it was pretty cool.
  • Garden of the Royal Library: A modern architectural masterpiece with a great roof terrace for relaxing.
  • Rosenborg Castle and Kings garden: The Renaissance castle that houses the Danish Crown Jewels. I got there at the end of the afternoon and decided to not go in. It looks great on the outside, and I had some time to explore the king's gardens. Was worth the visit.
  • Church of the Holy Spirit (Hellig Ånds Kirke): A beautiful Gothic church with a lovely garden courtyard in the middle of the city. I got in to listen to the pipe organ, it was nice.
  • Tivoli gardens: Amusement park in the city center. I didn't go for the rides (not very into it), so I got the ticket to explore the park without it. It was cool, as I had company and we were chatting and visiting. I found it very expensive, though (as most things in Denmark).
  • Faraoh games (name to be confirmed): There are a series of stores with the same name, they sell board games, card games, dices, books, and much more. I enjoyed the experience of visiting them.

Missed

  • The Little Mermaid: A classic statue of a mermaid. I heard it is a big disappointment for people expecting a lot from it. I had plans to visit, but it was raining on my way there and I was tired and soaked, decided to get back to the hotel and rest.
  • Christiansborg Palace: Went around it, but decided to not go in, was not really in the mood.
  • National Museum of Denmark: I really missed this one, thought about going in two times, but other forces pulled me in other directions (e.g. meeting people!)

Food

  • Restaurant Gemini: High-quality food with a focus on local ingredients. A solid choice for dinner looking at the lake.
  • GuĂ°run's Goodies: An Icelandic cafĂŠ serving excellent pastries and coffee. I went there for some hot dogs and really enjoyed it.
  • Kultur CafĂŠen Christiania: A unique, bohemian community right in the middle of the city. Great coffee and a totally different vibe from the rest of Copenhagen.
  • RĂĽdhus Smørrebrød: I was looking for a place to have smørrebrød and found this one. It's the opposite of fancy. Small place, a few locals buying stuff, eating there or taking a way. Affordable price and good taste. The owner is very friendly.