Want to explore the Danish capital without flying? We totally get it! It’s true that with its canals lined with houseboats, thousands of bikes, and that much-envied lifestyle, Copenhagen is the stuff of dreams. And the good news is that it’s now easily accessible by train from France: a night train, a connection in Germany, and presto—you’re right in the heart of this Scandinavian gem.
Of course, let's be honest: two days aren't enough to experience all that Copenhagen has to offer. Between its museums, its creative neighborhoods with very different atmospheres, and the many day trips you can take by train to the surrounding areas, the ideal is to spend a week there. By the way, if you're planning a longer trip, we've also put together a comprehensive guide to Copenhagen and the surrounding area (with practical information on bike rentals, great deals with CopenPay and the Copenhagen Card, and even places to swim in the city):
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Copenhagen: Our Complete Guide to Exploring the Danish Capital by Train
But if you only have 48 hours (and especially if you're stopping over in Denmark as part of a A more extensive itinerary for exploring Scandinavia by train) : We tested it (and more than approved!) A two-day itinerary in Copenhagen, focusing on getting around on foot, by water, by subway, and by bike. Just what you need to understand why Copenhagen consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities.
Since July 2026, the easiest way is to take the night train European Sleeper between Paris and Hamburg, before continuing the next morning to Copenhagen aboard a Railjet train operated by Czech Railways (ČD) or a EuroCity (about a 5-hour trip); in both cases, tickets must be booked on the Deutsche Bahn.
Good to know: Even though connections are generally straightforward, we recommend allowing plenty of time in Hamburg. Like all international night trains, the European Sleeper can sometimes run a little late, and it’s better to enjoy a coffee on the platform than to miss your train to Denmark. Another option if the dates don’t match your travel plans: you can also travel to Berlin (overnight on the European Sleeper or during the day on a high-speed train), then continue on to Copenhagen.And just a reminder: if you want to simplify your bookings and find the booking links for your itinerary in just a few clicks—based on your travel dates and times—go to the HOURRAIL! app
🌱 CopenPay: Depending on the program's terms, arriving in Copenhagen by train may give you access to certain benefits or experiences offered as part of the initiative.
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The stunning view from the train, near Nyborg, heading toward Copenhagen - © Sophie Renassia
Great Deal: During this trip, we were able to enjoy activities that were part of CopenPay, the initiative that promotes certain more sustainable travel practices, such as taking the train, biking, or using public transportation. We also used the Copenhagen Card, which provides access to numerous museums, attractions, and public transportation in the capital. Several of the experiences featured in this itinerary are part of one or another of these programs, although the partners and benefits vary by season and edition.
On this first day, we'll explore Copenhagen's most iconic sights (its canals, historic neighborhoods, and elegant squares), before wrapping up the evening at one of Europe's most beautiful amusement parks.
As soon as you step out of the central station, one thing immediately catches your eye: bicycles. Everywhere. All the time. The thousands of bicycles parked throughout the city immediately set the tone for your stay: here, cycling isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life.
Take a leisurely walk to the historic center by taking Strøget, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. While the street is known today for its shops, its main purpose is to connect several of the capital’s most iconic squares.
As you walk along, you'll pass through Rådhuspladsen, dominated by the impressive city hall, before arriving at Kongens Nytorv, the "New Place du Roi." Lined with historic buildings, it is home to, among other things, the prestigious Royal Danish Theater, whose facade overlooks the entrance to Nyhavn.
The Royal Danish Theater, as seen from the “New King’s Square” - © Sophie Renassia
Our tip: Don't hesitate to step away from the shopping streets for a few moments to explore the small side streets nearby. That's often where you'll discover the prettiest courtyards, a few hidden-gem cafés, and that peaceful atmosphere that defines Copenhagen.
You can't visit Copenhagen without taking the time to cruise along its canals. There are several options available to you: rent a kayak, board a GoBoat (a small electric boat that you can drive yourself without a license), or take part in a guided tour by boat.
💡 Editor's note: As for me (Sophie), I chose a GoBoat guided group tour. It was a great experience for learning about the capital’s history and hearing all sorts of interesting stories, all while taking in the amazing sights!
Guided city tour aboard a GoBoat - © Sophie Renassia
👉 To find out how to reserve a GoBoat, rent a kayak, or use the water buses and self-service bikes, visit Our Practical Guide to Exploring Copenhagen.
GoBoat Rental, at Islands Brygge - © Sophie Renassia
After this boat ride, we're off to Christianshavn, one of the most charming neighborhoods in the capital. With its canals lined with houseboats, colorful houses, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a lovely alternative to the busier parts of downtown.
The Canals of Christianshavn - © Sophie Renassia
Take some time to stroll along the waterfront, watch the locals go for a swim, or simply enjoy the almost village-like atmosphere that reigns here despite its immediate proximity to downtown.
The Indre By Canals: A Natural Gem in the Heart of the City! - © Sophie Renassia
Even though Copenhagen is more than just its famous colorful facades, it’s hard not to mention Nyhavn, which over the years has become one of the capital’s most recognizable sights.
Like many European destinations, Copenhagen is now seeking to better spread out visitors across different areas and times in order to preserve both the quality of life for residents and the travel experience for visitors.
Our tip: Come early in the morning or late in the day, when the light is soft and the neighborhood is quieter.
Nyhavn around 9:30 p.m., late June - © Sophie Renassia
As the sun begins to set, the famous colorful houses take on a golden glow while the terraces gradually fill up. Find a spot to have a drink or dinner along the canal, then just soak up the atmosphere.
And if you find Nyhavn too crowded—again—feel free to head over to the canals of Christianshavn (just a few minutes’ walk away) or Indre By (right next to Christianshavn), which sometimes offer an atmosphere that’s just as charming but much more peaceful.
The colorful houses of Christianshavn - © Mark Tanggaard
To wrap up this first day, head back to the central station and step inside the Tivoli Gardens.
Opened in 1843, Tivoli is much more than just an amusement park. With its restaurants, concerts, flower-filled gardens, shows, and historic attractions, the place has a unique atmosphere (especially at golden hour).
The Tivoli Gardens - © Sophie Renassia
🎟️ Copenhagen Card: Admission to the Tivoli Gardens is included with the pass.
Legend has it that its founder, Georg Carstensen, convinced King Christian VIII to fund the project by explaining to him that "When people are having fun, they don't think about politics.". Whether it's true or not, this phrase captures the spirit of the place pretty well.
Tivoli: A World of Thrills — © Sophie Renassia
And if you're visiting Copenhagen between spring and Christmas, be sure to spend the evening there: the lights give the park a truly magical atmosphere!
Editor's note: During this reporting trip, I stayed at the Guldsmeden Bryggen, a hotel located about a 20-minute walk from downtown and close to the subway. I especially enjoyed its bohemian atmosphere and its excellent organic breakfast, which offered plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
A special mention goes to its pool and spa, if you want to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Another highlight: the front desk is open 24 hours a day. If you're traveling light with just a backpack, you can easily start exploring the city as soon as you arrive and check into your hotel late at night.
In short, it's a comfortable place to stay, in a great location, and perfectly suited for a two-day micro-adventure in Copenhagen.
A room at the Guldsmeden Bryggen Hotel - © Sophie Renassia
After exploring the canals and the historic center, this second day gives you the chance to discover another side of Copenhagen—a city that’s transforming its old ports, industrial wastelands, and even its energy infrastructure into vibrant, creative spaces!
First, let's head to Refshaleøen, a former industrial island located east of downtown. For nearly a century, the massive Burmeister & Wain shipyards built some of Denmark’s largest ships there. When operations ceased in the 1990s, the neighborhood was gradually abandoned.
Rather than tearing everything down, Copenhagen is taking a different approach: reimagine what already exists. Today, the former warehouses are home to art galleries, studios, restaurants, festivals, and numerous cultural projects. This particularly successful redevelopment perfectly illustrates the philosophy of the Danish capital.
The former industrial island of Refshaleøen, transformed into a cultural hub (and a place to swim!) - © Sophie Renassia
First stop: Refshaleøen, if you're into contemporary art: Copenhagen Contemporary. The museum hosts major contemporary art exhibitions—often immersive—in which the artworks interact with the building’s raw architecture.
The entrance to “CC” (Copenhagen Contemporary) - © Sophie Renassia
A little further on, you can also check out temporary exhibits at Copenhagen Shipyard, a former Refshaleøen shipyard building that has been converted into a cultural space.
Editor’s note: I personally had the chance to visit “The Art of the Brick,” a temporary exhibition featuring Nathan Sawaya’s impressive LEGO sculptures (on view through August 23, 2026). Yet more proof that Refshaleøen has become one of Copenhagen’s leading cultural districts!
Art of the Brick: Over a Million LEGO Bricks, Featuring Reproductions of Iconic Works and Original Creations - © Sophie Renassia
Just a few minutes' walk away, the atmosphere changes completely. Situated on the waterfront, the café La Banchina perfectly embodies the spirit of the city.
La Blanchina and its “beach hut” vibe - © Sophie Renassia
People come here to have coffee, brunch, or lunch, but mostly to enjoy the sunshine overlooking the water. Right in front of you, locals are reading books, chatting on the dock, or alternating between the sauna and a swim in the harbor.
How about a quick coffee while watching the swimmers before joining them? - © Sophie Renassia
If the weather's nice, feel free to bring your swimsuit: here, it's quite common to take a quick dip before continuing your tour! And for more information on swimming in the city and water quality, check out our practical guide:
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Copenhagen: Our Complete Guide to Exploring the Danish Capital by Train
Swimmers across from La Blanchina - © Sophie Renassia
A few minutes further on is Reffen, one of our absolute favorites. First, cross Workshop, the Reffen indoor space: a large bar and cultural venue housed in a building that once served as the machine shop for the famous Burmeister & Wain shipyard.
Today, traces of its industrial past coexist with a cultural and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Werkstatt: A "third place" with a friendly atmosphere - © Sophie Renassia
A few steps further on, you'll come to the famous street food market. Also located on the old docks, this sprawling container village is home to the largest street food market in the Nordic countries!
As soon as you arrive, the delicious smells from the kitchen tickle your nose - © Sophie Renassia
There are about thirty different cuisines from all over the world: Japan, Mexico, Kurdistan, Pakistan, Thailand, Argentina, Greece... Not to mention a few Danish specialties. Everyone then takes a seat at the large communal tables facing the harbor to enjoy their meal in a friendly atmosphere.
Some of the many international food stalls in Reffen - © Sophie Renassia
But Reffen is much more than just a food court. In the summer, the site hosts concerts, DJ sets, a street art festival (every June), glassblowers, a skatepark, and even a small urban beach where you can soak up the sun until late in the evening.
A street artist at work during the Street Art Festival - © Sophie Renassia
Everything here retains the neighborhood’s industrial character: recycled shipping containers, repurposed furniture, old port buildings… It’s a way to preserve the history of these places while giving them a new lease on life.
As you leave Refshaleøen, you should catch a glimpse of CopenHill, whose silhouette has quickly become one of the symbols of Denmark’s new urbanism. At first glance, you might think it’s just a factory. In reality, this energy recovery plant, designed by renowned architect Bjarke Ingels, was conceived as a true recreational area.
CopenHill as seen from the canals - © Sophie Renassia
It is home to a ski slope In winter, a climbing wall among the tallest in the world and a scenic trail offering one of the most beautiful views of the capital. A spectacular illustration of how Copenhagen is striving to balance infrastructure, recreation, and the green transition.
From Refshaleøen, board the Water Bus 992 toward Orientkaj. As part of the public transit system (and therefore included with the Copenhagen Card), it lets you cross the harbor in just a few minutes while enjoying a lovely ride on the water.
In yellow: a ferry/water bus to take you from one end of the city to the other! - © Sophie Renassia
All the practical information about water buses, routes, bicycles, and GoBoats can be found in our A Practical Guide to Copenhagen.
Just a few years ago, Nordhavn was once a vast industrial port. Today, it has become one of Europe’s most ambitious sustainable urban development projects. Here, the docks are home to cafés, housing, offices, public facilities, and swimming areas in a neighborhood designed to encourage walking and cycling.
The Nordhavn waterfront: a lovely place to take a stroll along the canal - © Sophie Renassia
The best place to soak up this atmosphere is still Sandkaj. On sunny days, locals come here to read, have picnics, sunbathe, or jump right into the harbor using the many ladders set up along the docks.
The Sandkaj swimming pool in Nordhavn - © Sophie Renassia
If you want to get a bird's-eye view, you can climb up to the rooftop of Lüders Pastry Shop, located at the top of a parking garage. The view takes in the entire neighborhood and offers a better understanding of its spectacular development.
After “a few” steps, you can enjoy the view of the neighborhood from this rooftop (which also serves as a playground for kids) - © Sophie Renassia
Before leaving the neighborhood, take a detour to the Danish Architecture Center (DAC).
Le Blox, the iconic contemporary architecture building that houses the DAC - © Sophie Renassia
Its exhibits provide a very informative explanation of how Copenhagen has become a global leader in mobility, urban planning, and quality of life.
DAC Exhibitions: A Blend of Fun and Education - © Sophie Renassia
Don't miss the rooftop café either, which offers a lovely view of the canals.
The rooftop of the Danish Architecture Center - © Sophie Renassia
🌱 CopenPay: The Danish Architecture Center has already participated in some editions of the program. Check to see what's available during your stay.
🎟️ Copenhagen Card: Admission included.
After exploring the capital’s major urban projects, head to BaneGaarden, about 20 minutes by bike from downtown. This hidden gem shows you another side of Copenhagen: more intimate, more local, and almost rural—despite its immediate proximity to the railroad tracks.
BaneGaarden is a former railroad site redeveloped into a third place dedicated to sustainable and organic food, culture, and community gatherings. It features an organic bakery (“Perron”) renowned for its sourdough breads and pastries, several dining areas, vegetable gardens, cultural events, and, in the summer, an outdoor movie theater. Large communal tables invite locals and travelers alike to share a meal or simply enjoy a coffee in a relaxed atmosphere.
The street food stands and picnic tables at BaneGaarden - © Sophie Renassia
Keep in mind, however, that the location is a bit off the beaten path. If you only have two days, it might not be worth changing your plans just for this. On the other hand, if you enjoy places that blend heritage, ecology, and local life, this is a stop that’s as unique as it is enjoyable—a welcome break from the more touristy attractions!
The BaneGaarden Greenhouse - © Sophie Renassia
💡 Editor's note: I rode there on a bike from Donkey Republic (about €6 for a 40-minute rental through the app). On the day of my visit, several vegetarian options at the food market were unfortunately already sold out. However, I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the place and its organic bakery, which is worth a visit.
Don't miss the sourdough specialties at Perron Bakery. Very popular in Denmark, this natural fermentation method produces breads and pastries that are more flavorful, crispier, and softer.
It's hard to imagine a better ending than Absalon Community Center. This former church, which has been transformed into a community space, hosts a huge communal dinner every evening, where residents, students, and travelers gather around long communal tables.
The idea is simple: for about ten euros, anyone can come and share the meal of the day... as well as a conversation. Facilitators lead a few icebreakers to get the conversation going, and then the discussions flow naturally from there.
Absalon’s large dining tables, seen from upstairs - © Sophie Renassia
💡 Editor's note: As a side note, at my table were, among others, a mother with her daughter and son-in-law, who had gotten married in that very same church twenty-three years earlier. Within minutes, we’d gone from small talk about the weather to real conversations about our travels and our lives. That’s undoubtedly the warmest memory I’ll take away from the trip. I highly recommend it, especially if you’re traveling solo!
Just be sure to make a reservation: the place is very popular with locals.
The friendly atmosphere at Absalon’s “Communal Diner” - © Sophie Renassia
Then, all you have to do is head back to the train station with your head full of memories, to return to France via a connecting flight in Hamburg, or Continue your journey through the Scandinavian countries.
Launched by Wonderful Copenhagen to encourage more sustainable travel practices, the program CopenPay Offers visitors special benefits or experiences—depending on the season and partner—with a particular focus on travel by train, bicycle, or public transportation.
In some editions, arrive in Copenhagen by train For example, it has provided access to free bike rentals or specific cultural activities. The partners change regularly: be sure to check the official website Before you leave!
The Copenhagen Card provides access to more than 80 attractions and also includes all public transportation in the capital. It covers, among other things, the Danish Architecture Center, Copenhagen Contemporary, Tivoli, and harbor buses 991 and 992. If you’re planning several visits in a short period of time, it often pays for itself by the first or second day! We’ll tell you more in Our Complete Guide to Copenhagen Without Flying.
The Magic of Copenhagen's Canals - © Sophie Renassia
In two days, you obviously only get a glimpse of Copenhagen. But people often come for Nyhavn and Tivoli, and they usually leave with memories of something else entirely: an impromptu dip in the harbor, a ride on the water bus, a coffee in the sun at La Banchina, or a dinner shared with strangers at Absalon.
That’s what makes Copenhagen so special: its myriad facets. Although this itinerary was tested in the summer, most of these stops can be enjoyed year-round. From Tivoli’s winter lights to the Copenhagen Light Festival and the fastelavnsboller season, Copenhagen offers a different experience with every season.
But what truly sets the Danish capital apart is not so much its collection of beautiful monuments as the way it transforms every space into a place to live. Old harbors become neighborhoods where people go swimming; brownfield sites host restaurants or museums; a power plant is transformed into a ski slope; a former train station finds a new lease on life with large communal dining tables; and a former church welcomes hundreds of people every evening for a shared dinner. Here, sustainable transportation isn’t a tourist attraction, swimming in the harbor isn’t a rare occurrence, and large public spaces aren’t mere backdrops: all of this is part of everyday life.
To sum it up, we obviously came away with some really beautiful photos of Nyhavn and Tivoli, but above all with a magnificent example of what the cities of tomorrow could look like… So, when are you going?
And for more inspiration, visit the official websites of VisitCopenhagen and VisitDenmark !
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Traveling to Scandinavia by train: Oslo, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Lapland from France (2026 guide)
Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).
Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.
