When I was looking for a low-cost trip last summer, Copenhagen was not the first place to come to mind. When I thought of Denmark, I used to think of cosy sweaters, saunas, and the icy chill of Scandinavian winters. What’s more, Copenhagen does not have a reputation for being particularly budget-friendly. Per Forbes, in 2023, it was the 8th most expensive city in the world to live in.   

I had always wanted to visit Denmark, although I knew embarrassingly little about it. It was part of my family heritage, and I had heard positive stories from friends and family who had visited. After a little research, I found not only was Copenhagen filled with world-class art museums, beautiful castles, and a sunny harbor, but that a trip there could be done on a budget!   

As with any trip, flight and accommodation are the first place to start. On RyanAir, one can easily find a deal flying from Stansted to Copenhagen this summer for just about £40. As always with RyanAir, it is best to wait to buy until one of their frequent sales, which will lower the price.   

In terms of hotels, I opted to stay in a capsule hotel in one of Copenhagen’s most central and iconic locations along the canal in Nyhavn. We paid £44 for one night, and I split the cost with my partner. Overall, the experience was very similar to a regular hostel, but everyone had their own private and lockable space. I am not easily claustrophobic and found the pod surprisingly roomy, so I would definitely recommend it. However, it is not for those who like to stretch out or spend a lot of time relaxing at their accommodation. Other hostels around the city can be found for similar and lower prices.  

Once in Copenhagen, there was so much to explore! Many of its most iconic spots are free to visit. It is lovely to stroll along the canals in the evening or grab a picture with the famous Little Mermaid statue. I also recommend a visit to Freetown Christiniana. The neighbourhood was founded in 1971 as a sustainable, car-free commune that observes its own laws. It is a great place to admire street art.   

If you are interested in outdoor activities, Copenhagen has plenty to offer. Biking is a must! I am not a very confident bike rider, so I dislike biking on busy streets. However, Copenhagen has separated and raised bike lanes and special traffic laws that make it safe and easy to go anywhere in the city. Rentals are cheap, and it is a great way to get around and enjoy the kaleidoscope of colourful architecture in the city.  

Bring your swimsuit, and you can take a dip in the Islands Brygge Harbour Bath, a free, open-air swimming pool in the centre of the city. It is a beautiful place to go in the summer, but it is also open for an icy swim in the winter. Alternatively, venture into the harbour’s waters on a kayak. GreenKayak is a company which encourages eco-friendly tourism by offering a free kayak rental to those who fill up a waste bucket and help keep the waters clean.   

If you are willing to pay the price for art and culture, Copenhagen has several wonderful museums and heritage sites. Christansborg Palace is worth visiting for the tapestries alone, although it will set you back 140 Danish Krone (£15.80) or 90 DKK (£10.20) if you are a student. Other locations to consider are Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg Palace, and the National Gallery of Denmark. If you are flexible with your visit dates, many sites have free admission on specific days of the week.   

The costliest attraction in Copenhagen is undoubtedly a visit to Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park which opened in 1843. Entrance to the park is 170 DKK (£19.20), but this does not include the cost of rides or food. I spent my time watching the free live theatre performance in the park, playing (and losing) a game of Galoppen, and exploring the grounds without too much of a hit to the wallet.  

Last but not least, food costs in Copenhagen can be the most tricky part of keeping this a low-cost destination. I did this by avoiding tourist restaurant areas like Nyven. For a cheap lunch, try a picnic by the harbour or try a traditional dish at Domhusets Smorrebrod. As the name suggests, Domhusets sells delicious Danish smorrebrod, or open-top sandwiches, for around 22 DKK (£2.50) a dish.  

For dinner, try taking part in a communal dining experience at the popular Folkehuset Absalon. Each dinner has a set price that ranges from 60DKK (£6.75) Sunday to Wednesday or 100DKK (£11.30) Thursday to Saturday.  

Modern but charming, I found that Copenhagen has something to offer everyone. The two-day trip I have outlined here can be done for under £200 while still enjoying the city’s famous sights. I found it to be friendly, clean, and very embracing of tourists. Its long days of sunshine make it a magical summertime trip. Next time you are looking for a weekend away, think Copenhagen.  

Photo credit: Nick Karvounis