If you ever find yourself with a long layover in Copenhagen, don’t waste it in the terminal. This charming Danish capital is compact, walkable, and packed with history, beauty, and delicious bites—all just a short ride from the airport. On a recent stopover, I had about 8 hours to spare and managed to soak in royal sights, coastal walks, and local flavors, all without feeling rushed. Here’s how to make the most of it.
From Airport to the Heart of the City
After landing at Copenhagen Airport, I grabbed a taxi straight to Nyhavn—arguably the most picturesque starting point for any visit. The ride took about 20 minutes and offered a glimpse of Copenhagen’s clean, orderly streets. Arriving at Nyhavn felt like stepping into a postcard: colorful 17th-century buildings lining a sparkling canal, wooden boats bobbing in the water, and cafes buzzing with both locals and travelers.
A Royal Stroll to Amalienborg Palace
From Nyhavn, it’s just a short walk to Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family. The square is grand yet understated in true Scandinavian fashion, flanked by four identical palatial buildings and guarded by soldiers in those iconic bearskin hats. If you’re lucky and your timing is right, you might catch the Changing of the Guard at noon—a quiet, ceremonial nod to Denmark’s regal traditions.
Coastal Walk to the Little Mermaid
Continuing north along the waterfront, I followed the Langelinie promenade, a scenic walkway that hugs the coastline. Sailboats, swans, and sculptures accompany you along the way until you meet the city’s most famous (and arguably smallest) icon: The Little Mermaid statue. Yes, she’s modest in size, but there’s something magical about seeing her perched on her rock, gazing longingly out to sea.
A Quick Stop at Kastellet
Just behind the statue lies Kastellet, a well-preserved star-shaped fortress with grassy ramparts and red barracks. It’s still a functioning military area, but the public is welcome to walk the peaceful paths along the top of the walls. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and enjoy a bit of quiet away from the crowds.
Eat Like a Local: Smørrebrød and Carlsberg
All that walking builds an appetite, so I wandered back toward central Copenhagen and found a cozy cafe serving traditional smørrebrød—open-faced rye bread sandwiches layered with everything from pickled herring to roast beef and remoulade. Paired with a cold Carlsberg beer, it’s the ultimate Danish meal. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Back to the Airport—Recharged and Inspired
With time to spare, I caught a cab back to the airport, feeling like I’d truly been somewhere. Copenhagen is one of those cities that feels instantly welcoming and effortlessly beautiful. Even on a layover, it leaves a lasting impression.
So next time you find yourself between flights in Denmark, don’t stay grounded—go explore.
Heidi Go Seek 
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