Why I Chose Copenhagen – And Why It Surprised Me
Copenhagen was never high on my original travel list.
I’m not a typical “city break” traveler. I usually prefer mountains, nature, and slow wanderings to big urban itineraries. But the more I learned about Denmark, the more curious I became.
Denmark consistently ranks among the world’s best countries for happiness, quality of life, and overall well-being. One article in particular, Visual Capitalist’s global Quality of Life ranking, showed Denmark firmly positioned at the top.
Copenhagen itself has been known as the world’s cycling capital for more than 100 years, a city designed first and foremost for people, not cars. And according to the Happy City Index 2025, Copenhagen is officially the happiest city in the world.
What struck me most:
My own hometown, Zurich, is ranked the second happiest city in the world, a fact I’m deeply proud of. I already know what it feels like to live in a place where quality of life is a priority, safe streets, clean air, clean lake and river
But that sparked an irresistible curiosity:
👉 If Zurich is number two… what does life feel like in the number one city?
https://happy-city-index.com/
So I booked a flight and spent five days in Copenhagen, not rushing through museums or ticking off big sights, but simply living the city, observing how people move, rest, eat, play, and coexist.
And that simple experiment surprised me in the best possible way
Quick Copenhagen Travel Tips
Heading to Copenhagen for the first time? Here are the things I wish I knew before landing.
Getting From the Airport
The airport transfer couldn’t be easier. Hop on the train from Terminal 2, grab a ticket from the machine or the DOT Billetter app, and you’ll be downtown in 15 minutes. Truly effortless.
Money & Budget
Yes, Copenhagen is pricey, but manageable. Don’t bother with cash; cards work everywhere. If you plan on sightseeing, the Copenhagen Card can save you money with free attractions and unlimited transport.
Where to Stay
Stay near København H (Central Station) for maximum convenience. It’s the perfect hub for the metro, buses, airport trains, and day trips. I stayed at Go Hotel Ansgar — simple, smart, and budget-friendly.
Getting Around
Copenhagen is compact, calm, and beautifully organized. Walk as much as you can or rent a bike if you want to feel like a local.
My First Danish Words: “Tak” and “Hygge”
Before I even arrived in Copenhagen, the first two Danish words I learned were:
“Tak” – thank you. And “Hygge” – the word that has become almost symbolic of Danish happiness.
And honestly? You can’t understand Denmark without understanding hygge.
What Hygge Really Means
Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) doesn’t translate perfectly into English, but it captures a feeling:It is a philosophy of happiness built on simple pleasures, not extravagant ones.
Warmth, Slowness and Togetherness; It’s the art of appreciating life’s small moments, lighting candles on a rainy evening, sharing a simple dinner with friends, wrapping yourself in a soft blanket with tea, or simply enjoying a quiet moment without rushing.
How Danes Live Hygge
In Denmark, hygge is everywhere:
Cafés with candles burning even in the daytime.
Homes filled with soft lighting, warm textures, and natural materials.
People taking time to meet friends after work instead of rushing home to screens.
Slow dinners, long conversations, and no pressure to “perform.”
Living Hygge in Copenhagen
I wanted to feel that for myself.
So I booked my trip with no itinerary, no checklist, no museum race, just one quiet promise:To live slowly for a week and see what happened.
My days looked like this:
discovering small coffee shops
eating absurd amounts of carbs
renting a bike and seeing the city the local way
wandering through parks instead of attractions
watching Danes live life with ease and intention
The more I slowed down, the more I understood why Copenhagen ranks among the happiest cities in the world, and why hygge is much more than a pretty lifestyle trend.
Markets & Weekend Thrifting
Copenhagen is a treasure hunt if you love vintage and flea finds. On weekends, look out for:
Must-Try Experiences in Copenhagen
If you only do a few things, make them these:
1. Nyhavn
Located in the heart of the city, Nyhavn is the iconic waterfront district that adorns nearly EVERY travel book or blog post about Copenhagen. The most striking feature of Nyhavn is its colorful row of 17th-century townhouses that line the waterfront in an array of vibrant hues. The bustling waterfront promenade is the heart of Nyhavn’s activity, and I’m going to be honest – it’s pretty touristy. Pop into a cafe or two to grab a coffee or souvenir, but I wouldn’t recommend hanging out in this area too long.
2. Rent a bike
Because Copenhagen is a city designed for two wheels, you feel instantly local.
This habit of traveling on two wheels is linked to the fact that Danes have one of the highest life expectancies in the world. It is also credited with making Copenhagen one of the least polluted cities.Rent from Lucas Cykler — highly recommended.
3. Eat at Reffen
A lively street food market by the harbor, the the bike is a beautiful ride outsite the city, many international food, beers and perfect place for magical at sunset.
try the Danish Fiskefrikadeller (fish meatballs) — although I didn’t personally love them 😅.
4. Coffee Shop tho visit
So many cute Coffe places, one of my favorites
Darcys Kaffee
la Cabra
Dallas Coffee
5. Try the legendary Gasoline Grill burger
the 6 best Burger, selected by the worlds 25 best Burger, https://www.worldbeststeaks.com/best-burger-1/gasoline-grill
Gasoline Grill transforms fast food into a culinary experience. Each patty is made from 100% organic beef, freshly ground in-house every day and “semi-smashed” on the griddle to achieve a deeply caramelised crust and a juicy centre
6. Taste a cardamom roll at Heart Bageri
also to try here, Kanelsnegle = a cinnamon snails,
Tebirkes= a traditional sweet Viennoiserie originating from Denmark. It is made with two layers of yeast leavened laminated dough sandwiching a layer of marzipan filling and topped with poppy seeds
Spandauer =The most classic of all Danish pastries, Spandauer is a flaky, buttery pastry filled with marzipan and cream or custard and topped with chopped hazelnuts or other seasonal toppings. This utterly delicious pastry is typically eaten for breakfast but is equally good with afternoon coffee
7. Wander Garden & Castel
Visit the Botanical Garden calm oasis in the middle of the city, also visit right in front of it the Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle, a magnificent Renaissance-style palace located in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, is a living testament to the country’s royal heritage. Built in the early 17th century by King Christian IV, the castle boasts a stunning copper roof and intricate spires. Rosenborg Castle can be admired from the outside with a walk through King’s Garden, a meticulously manicured and picturesque park.
8. Torvehallerne Market
– Danis Hotdog
– Smorrebrod = If you’re visiting Copenhagen and haven’t tried smørrebrød, you’re missing out on a slice of Danish culture—literally! This iconic open-faced sandwich is one of Denmark’s national dishes, alongside the hot dog and flæskesteg (roast pork).
9. University Libery
Built in a neo-Gothic style, the library is Copenhagen’s equivalent to Dublin’s world-famous Long Room at Trinity College. A painted barrel ceiling and two story book shelves make this impressive library a photographer’s dreams.
10. Free Walking tour at Freetown Christiania, a unique neighborhood in Copenhagen
Christiania was founded in 1971 when a group of hippies, artists, and activists occupied an abandoned military base to build a free, self-managed community. They envisioned a police-free zone built on freedom, sharing, and collective decision-making.
If you’re attracted to alternative culture, art, community-driven spaces and want a taste of a different side of Copenhagen — then yes, Christiania remains one of the most unique, memorable places in the city. Its colourful streets, creative energy and unusual history offer an experience unlike typical tourist spots.
Visit ancient and modern art Museum The Glyptotek
The Glyptotek houses Denmark’s largest collection of Impressionist art as well as major works from the period thereafter. Today you can experience works by artists such as Manet, Monet, Degas, Sisley, van Gogh, Cézanne, Rodin and Picasso.
One Thing I Didn’t Get to Do (But You Should)
Because I didn’t book in advance, I missed one experience I really wanted:
A Danish pastry-making workshop (including classic wienerbrød and dreamy cardamom buns), or through Airbnb Experiences — but book early, they sell out fast.
Things that was not on my interest but may interest you
Carlsberg Brewery
Founded in 1847 by visionary J.C. Jacobsen, Carlsberg Brewery is a household name around the world. No surprise there–it is the 4th largest beer producer worldwide. Carlsberg is a cornerstone of Copenhagen’s industrial and cultural history. This historic brewery was once the beating heart of Denmark’s economy.
Harbor Boats & Swims
The harbor in Copenhagen is undergoing rapid change, from an industrial harbor to recreational space. There are a number of canal and harbor tours in Copenhagen,
If you want to really feel like a local, try swimming at one of Copenhagen’s many “beaches”. On a sunny summer day, there are SO many Danes hanging around the waterfront. <
One of the most visited swimming holes in Copenhagen is Islands Brygge, right across the bridge from the city center. Another favorite is Badezone Sandkaj in the trendy Nordhavnen neighborhood. For any sauna girlies reading this, I see you. If you need to go to sauna before swimming, check out Copenhot on the north side of town.
Gastronomie Hightight
Was not on my list but if you wane experience noma, Noma is a pioneer in Nordic fine dining, to many, having dinner at noma is like a pilgrimage. Noma Copenhagen has been consistently ranked as the top restaurant in the world currently at No. 3 and previously as No. 1 for several years. Boasting two Michelin stars, Chef René Redzepi has always infused innovative menus with locally-sourced ingredients
SMK, the National Art Museum
one of the largest art collections in the kingdom. The SMK (Statens Museum for Kunst), located in the city centre, is not only one of the capital’s most beautiful buildings, but also one of its most famous museums, housing one of the most extensive art collections in the kingdom.
Final Thoughts:
Why Copenhagen Stayed With Me
Copenhagen didn’t win me over with grand monuments or dramatic skylines, but with something quieter — its calm, intentional, human-centered way of life. A city where design, nature, and community blend effortlessly, and where families truly live together. I loved seeing so many dads out with their children, grabbing coffee, taking walks — a simple but powerful reminder of how present and valued family life is here.
I came to Copenhagen curious about why it’s ranked the happiest city in the world; I left understanding that its happiness is subtle, slow, and woven into everyday moments.
And I know one thing for sure: I’ll definitely be back — especially in summer. Next time, I’m planning day trips to Aarhus or over the bridge to Malmö in Sweden (where, fun fact, taxes are nearly 50%, but quality of life remains a priority).
Copenhagen left a softness on me — and I can’t wait to return.
Loppemarked – Copenhagen Flea Markets
They pop up around the city, especially in:
– Nørrebro sits just northwest of the city center, across the lakes (Søerne). It’s one of Copenhagen’s most vibrant, multicultural, and creative neighborhoods.
–Frederiksberg has a more refined, local feel. Some key markets:
Frederiksberg Garden Market (pop-up artisan and food stalls near the park)
Frederiksberg Flea Market near the town hall
– Vesterbro lies just west of the Central Station (København H), Copenhagen’s trendiest and most hipster-friendly neighborhoods.
About the markets:
Vesterbro has a mix of cool food halls and creative markets, including:
– WestMarket — an indoor food hall with global street food
– Onkel Dannys Plads Flea Market in the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen)
Second-Hand Stores I Loved
– Carmen
– Tu a Tu
Beautiful curated fashion, very Danish, very wearable.
