I had heard great things about Copenhagen, but it was not on our immediate radar of places to visit. We had just returned from our trip to Morocco, and had a bit of withdrawal, so I kept thinking about where we could go next. Since we didn’t have many vacation days left, we had to focus on one main city instead of an entire country. Ironically not long after, a kids fly free deal for Scandinavian Airlines caught my attention. With Copenhagen being one of the options of places to go, we thought why not? We chose to go over Thanksgiving holiday to gain a few extra days. I’m now delighted to have made such a spur of the moment decision.

We had 5 full days in Copenhagen, not counting travel time. Our style is to pack it all in, so I had high hopes to see everything. It didn’t go fully as planned so I’m going to share our actual itinerary of what we realistically were able to do given energy level and travel with a toddler.

Our short time here also included a brief escape to Bornholm, a little island that is geographically closer to Sweden, but still a part of Denmark. You can choose to either include this or not, and we will also give suggestions on alternate options instead. It truly was a highlight and something we’d like to explore deeper on a return trip.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

What to Do in Copenhagen: 5 Day Itinerary

In This Article
When to Go to Copenhagen
Is the Copenhagen Card Worth It?
Christiansborg Palace, Walking Tour, and Christmas Markets
Bornholm Island
Tivoli Gardens
Frederiksborg Castle
Walking Tour and Danish Christmas Lunch
Head Back Home

When to Go to Copenhagen

Deciding when to go to Copenhagen depends on the type of experience you want to have. If you’re into doing more outdoors, visiting Legoland and having a full range of activities then visiting during Spring or Summer is best. Definitely go during Fall or Winter if you prefer less crowds. If you want the full festive holiday experience, visiting during November or December is ideal.

We happened to be there towards end of November and absolutely loved being able to see all the Christmas markets and experience the cozy hygge feeling everywhere. It was also magical being able to see Christmas at Tivoli, an experience everyone should have at least once. Overall, anytime is great to visit Copenhagen, or better yet go back during a different season and have a completely different trip.

Exploring the streets in the central part of the city

Is the Copenhagen Card Worth It?

I had heard of the Copenhagen Card for tourists, but wasn’t sure if it was worth buying. After calculating the actual sites we had planned to see with our time, we decided not to get one. Unless you plan to pack in a lot of sites, it may be cheaper not to buy one. Since most of our days were spent walking and exploring, it wasn’t cost-efficient for us. They have a handy calculator on their site, however I did the math on my own based on looking up all the individual costs.

The card is only worth it if you plan to pack in a lot of places per day. However, there are things that can go wrong or happen during the trip. Alternatively, you may want to purchase a 24 hour all zone ticket or Citypass, which you can find more info about here.

An archway on the way to Christiansborg Palace

Day 1: Christiansborg Palace, Walking Tour, and Christmas Markets

This itinerary works well for those who arrive in Copenhagen in the early morning. Getting through immigration was very quick. It was pretty easy to figure out the train into the city. We had a full day ahead to explore, however we were exhausted from travel and running on very little sleep, so our energy was limited. Our hotel check-in was not until 3pm, but we headed there first to place our luggage in the lockers available there.

I had kept the day pretty open, but listed areas of interest to see. You can choose to follow this, or alter to your liking. Instead of strictly following the list, we decided to just start walking and see where it would take us.

Local Tour
Exploring with a local is the best way to experience a new place. This Copenhagen Welcome Tour is the perfect introduction to the city so you can explore with confidence on your own.

The outside of Next Door Cafe

Breakfast/Brunch

I searched on Yelp for some nearby cafes since we were pretty hungry and found one called Next Door Cafe, located in the Indre By neighborhood. It got great reviews, so we decided to give it a try.

The cozy ambiance of Next Door Cafe

The cafe looked so cute from the outside, and the owners were so friendly and welcoming. We also loved how casual it was. You’ll feel so comfortable in the dimly lit interior. We ordered an omelet and pancakes and both were so delicious. It was quite small and cozy and never got too crowded while we were there, perhaps because it was a weekday. Definitely a nice introduction to Denmark, we highly recommend it as a breakfast/brunch option while here.

Inside one of the reception rooms at Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace

After eating we decided to head to Christiansborg Palace. With a 10am opening time, it was perfect timing to explore for a few hours then move onto other sites. We opted to see the Royal Reception rooms to keep more of the day open for other things. Our total time here was around 1-2 hours, so allow at least that to explore.

Terra with foot coverings at the top of the stairs

Royal Reception Rooms

Before starting your tour, you’ll have to put on foot coverings to keep the floors clean. The entire palace on the inside is beautiful, and there were special Christmas tables on display since it was the holiday season. I absolutely love palaces and castles, so it was quite a delight seeing the exquisite and ornate interiors. The decor was so rich and elegant, with incredible detail!

The Queen’s Library at Christiansborg Palace

One of my favorite rooms was the Queen’s Library, which contains a private collection of books. It was so gold and luxurious, with beautiful blue furniture accents. Terra especially loved the Throne Room and kept asking where can she find the queen! The Dining Hall was also quite interesting, I can’t imagine how cool it would be to be part of such a grand dinner!

Upon exiting you’ll remove the foot coverings. There’s also a souvenir shop if you’re interested in grabbing some things. It’s definitely worth the visit and so lovely seeing a part of Danish history!

The entrance to the Christmas Market at Højbro Plads

Walking Tour: Kongens Nytorv, Amagertorv, Strøget, Indre By

Højbro Plads

Once we finished touring the castle, we walked over the Højbro Plads which was literally right across the street. You can easily spot it by the large Absalon equestrian statue displayed right in the entrance. We stumbled upon the holiday market here, which was such a nice surprise! There were a lot of cute shops, with wonderful smells of food and sweets in the air. We stopped to try a sausage and it was so delicious! It was one of our must-try foods here and a perfect opportunity to grab a snack!

See a full list: Copenhagen Christmas Market Guide.

The heart of Strøget welcomed by the Stork Fountain

Amagertorv

Next to Højbro Plads is Amagertorv also known as Amalger Square. At the entrance is the famous Stork Fountain, a lovely photo opportunity. This is the heart of Strøget, the famous shopping street and one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. We walked and explored a great deal of it, and noticed a mixture of both budget and luxury shops. Due to limited time here we decided not to shop much, but there was a lot to see. We definitely made sure to stop at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, since we fell in love with the store in NYC.

Walking along Strøget street

Strøget

During our stroll along Strøget, we also stopped at Lagkagehuset for a kanelsnegle, the Danish version of a cinnamon roll. Such buttery and cinnamon goodness! Here’s a list of more great bakeries to check out while in Copenhagen.

We walked until we finally reached City Hall, and stopped by the Dragon Fountain for some photos. While exploring we also walked past Tivoli and it was nice to see the holiday decor during the day. Since we had plans to spend the day here later in our trip, it was nice to get a view of it during daytime hours.

Torvehallerne Food Hall

What to Eat: Lunch

Torvehallerne is a treasure trove of great eats in Copenhagen. There’s so much to choose from and you can even grab some edible souvenirs to bring back home. It consists of two separate halls and in the center is an outdoor market with fresh produce and other items.

Hallernes Smørrebrød in Torvehallerne Food Hall

With a plethora of options, it was tough deciding what to eat. In the end we chose Hallernes Smørrebrød and grabbed a few options of smørrebrød to share. We wanted to at least try it once, so this was our chance. Another place worth trying here is Grød, for some delicious Danish porridge. We also noticed a smoothie place with healthy options.

Check in area at Steelhouse

Hotel Check-In: Steelhouse Copenhagen

Let’s be honest, hotel accommodation in Copenhagen isn’t cheap, so we chose a hostel option. But after our stay at Steelhouse Copenhagen, I must say, the hostels here are a great choice, and have everything you need. They had lockers for storage, laundry facilities, a kitchen, several lounge areas and just an overall community vibe. There were snacks and drinks available for purchase, which was very convenient as we headed out for a fully packed day.

Our small but functional room at Steelhouse

We booked the twin room for 4 people. It was still quite small, but perfect for what we needed. The beds were surprisingly very comfortable and cozy, and the shower was always hot and functional with plenty of towels provided. We truly enjoyed our stay here and you’ll find it to be a great economical choice during your visit.

Once we checked in, we decided to take a moment to rest. We probably could have squeezed in another neighborhood to check out, but with sunset starting before 4pm, we didn’t have much daylight left. Taking a moment to recharge is just what you need sometimes!

See more: Hotels in Copenhagen

The Christmas market at Nyhavn

Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv Christmas Markets

It was our top priority to see all the Christmas markets during our visit, especially since they are seasonal. Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv are two of the bigger markets located conveniently next to each other. We hadn’t actually seen Nyhavn yet, so we decided to head there first. It was quite easy to get to, just a few stops from our hostel and a 5 minute walk from the station.

Beautiful holiday decor along Nyhavn canal

Nyhavn Christmas Market

The market at Nyhavn was absolutely beautiful. You’ll be in awe from all of the lights, adorable festive shops, and smells of spices in the air. The restaurants along the canal were all adorned with holiday decor. The hygge feeling was definitely alive here! There were blankets, table lamps and fires going in the outdoor seating areas of the eateries. We tried gløgg for the first time, which is a mulled red wine served with spices, raisins, and sliced almonds. All the goodies at the bottom soaked up all the flavors and it was such a treat! Seeing all the holiday lights reflected on the water was a heartwarming sight.

The entrance to Kongens Nytorv Christmas market

Delicious mini dutch pancakes

Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market

Kongens Nytorv also called the King’s Square, is one of the main areas in the city. The stunning D’Angleterre Hotel and the equestrian statue of Christian V are situated here. There’s also a plentitude of shops and street foods to try. We decided to have dinner here and munched on some Pork Goulash and pommes frites, along with mini pancakes topped with nutella for dessert. It was all warm and hearty, perfect for a cold winter night.

The village of Allinge in Bornholm Island

Day 2: Bornholm Island

Where to Stay

I wanted to see an area beyond Copenhagen even though we had such little time in Denmark. Some possible options were Aarhus, Odense, Aero Island or Bornholm. I instinctively went with Bornholm and wow what a discovery. I had never heard of this island before, but found it through travel research. Since it was off season there weren’t many hotels open, so we opted for Airbnb called Svaneke Guesthaus.

The backyard area of Svaneke Guesthouse

The guesthouse was such a delight and the owners treated us like family. We had a private room within the top floor of the house with access to a common guest area. Since nobody else was there we had this all to ourselves.

How to Get to Bornholm

Getting here was fairly easy, but took a bit of work and research. The ferry is located in Ystad, Sweden. You can either rent a car and drive, take the train, or do a bus/ferry combo which we found to be the easiest option. I booked the tickets in advance through Bornholmerbussen. The site is in Danish, so you may need to use a translator. The bus leaves from directly in front of Copenhagen Hotel Plaza. To maximize time go with the 6:45am departure, with arrival to the island around 9:30am.

Getting Around

In order to get around the island you’ll need a car. There are buses, but they don’t come often and it will limit your schedule. We had a great experience with Europcar, located right by the ferry port in Rønne. There are only manual cars available though, so if you need automatic you’ll have to rent elsewhere.

Things to Do

The island is quite small and you can drive the perimeter in about 3-4 hours. Dubbed the “Sunny Island” it’s typically very sunny, however we experienced overcast skies during our stay. Since we only had a day here, we chose just a few select sites and saved the rest for another trip.

Hammershus Castle Ruins in Bornholm

There are villages on the water around the perimeter of the island, with some sites in the middle. For this trip we focused on the northern part of the island, since the south is more known for its beaches. During our short stay, we stopped at Allinge, Gudhjem, Hammershus Castle Ruins, Osterlars Round Church and Svaneke. In order to enjoy the island in its entirety you need at least 3-4 nights here. We plan to go back during summer for a longer trip.

The salad bar at Svaneke Bryghus

Dinner

Since it was off-season there weren’t many restaurants open. Our guesthouse hosts kindly offered to book us a table at Svaneke Bryghus, conveniently located near our airbnb. It was a nice stroll through the village to get there and allowed us to see the main square. They had a great selection of food to choose from and every entree included the salad bar, with fresh and healthy options. With it being a microbrewery, there was a fantastic array of craft beers available. The food was pricey, but delicious. It’s definitely a solid option in this area.

Explore more: Getaway Guide to Bornholm Island

Alternate Option
If you choose not to visit Bornholm, you can spend another day touring Copenhagen. You can explore Norrebro and check out Assistens Cemetary, Superkilen Park and admire the beautiful facades. For other day trip options, you can explore Roskilde, Odense, Egeskov Castle, Møns Klint, or a guided tour of Lund and Malmo, Sweden. See more: Things to do in Copenhagen

Strolling around the village of Svaneke

Osterlars Round Church in Bornholm

Day 3: Travel Back to Copenhagen + Tivoli Gardens

Before taking the ferry we had time explore Svaneke and take some photos. We also stopped at Osterlars Round Church since it was on the drive back to Rønne. We then took the same ferry and bus back to Copenhagen. They run only every four hours, so with plans for Tivoli later in the day the 10:30am ferry is the best option. This will get you back to Copenhagen around 1:30pm with time for lunch and relaxation. For more photos and info on our Bornholm getaway, check out our mini guide to Bornholm Island.

Hotel Check-In: Urban House Copenhagen

I typically like to book at least a few different places to stay during our trips. For the remainder of our trip I chose Urban House Copenhagen, another hip hostel with an excellent location. It was about a 3 minute walk to Copenhagen Central Station, a hub that allowed us ease of travel in the city and beyond.

It was a lot more lively and busy here. They had lockers for storage and a digital check-in process. We also spotted a bar here with a few food options for both breakfast and dinner along with some snacks and drinks for purchase.

Our spacious room at Urban House Copenhagen

The room was quite large, and we had 4 bunk beds along with a double bed. It was nice to spread out and have some extra space with a longer stay. We noticed plenty of towels available and everything was very clean.

The outside of Mother restaurant

Lunch

After a brief search for food near the hostel I found Mother, about a 10 minute walk away. When we arrived it was slightly crowded, but not too bad. There was a lunch buffet happening with an hour left to go, so we got there just in time.

A plateful of delicious food at Mother

If you love Italian food like me, then you’ll be in heaven here. There was pizza and several other Italian dishes and salads, as well as cheese with various bread and baked goods. We tried a little bit of everything and we loved the salads the most. Being used to amazing pizza in NYC, we weren’t too impressed with it. It was definitely pricey for what we got, so if you’re in the area it’s worth a try, but don’t make a special trip for it.

The beautiful holiday vibes at Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens

A trip to Copenhagen isn’t complete without visiting Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It’s also inspiration for Walt Disney World, another classic theme park for people of all ages. We were lucky to experience Christmas at Tivoli, a magical and incredible experience you must have at least once in your lifetime.

If you have a Tivoli card, the entrance fee is free, however you’ll still have to pay for rides. If you’re going to ride more than 3-4 rides then definitely go with the Unlimited Ride Pass. They also have a Companion pass for those who are just riding with younger children not able to ride on their own.

The charming carousel at Tivoli

The lines into the park were not too long, in fact it took no more than 10 minutes to get in. Once inside it was pretty crowded, but we were still able to move around comfortably. Certain rides had a longer wait time than others, specifically the Balloon ride and the Carousel.

Dragon boats surrounded by magical holiday decor

Holiday Vibes All Around

The decor was absolutely stunning and it felt like a winter wonderland. We loved browsing the Christmas markets, and there was plenty of glogg, hot cocoa, and food available for purchase. The Christmas tree was stunning and we even saw a train moving around it. Terra was in awe with all the lights and festive feel in the air.

Explore more: Christmas at Tivoli Gardens.

The merry atmosphere inside Groften

Dinner

In order to have a break from the cold I booked a table at Grøften well in advance. I was excited to try the traditional Danish fare served here. The entrance was quite lovely and adorned with holiday decor. We were welcomed with a warm greeting and seated in a more quiet area of the Mellemhaven section, which I had chosen while booking.

Christmas Rice pudding dessert topped with cherries

I absolutely loved the vibe inside, there were Christmas balloons hanging from the ceiling filled with little animals. The area was lit mostly by candles and holiday lights. We definitely felt the hygge with sounds of laughter, joy and chatter. Service was fantastic and the food was quite delicious. We noticed a traditional Christmas menu available, but since we had one booked for the following day we chose other options. Definitely make sure to try the traditional Danish dessert, rice pudding with cherries (so delicious!) Our time here was truly warm and enjoyable and we highly recommend it while you’re at Tivoli.

The grand entrance to Frederiksborg Castle

Day 4: Frederiksborg Castle

We decided to sleep in and recharge for a busy day ahead. This meant that we only had time to see Frederiksborg Castle, located in the charming town of Hillerød. We grabbed some breakfast at the 7-11 in the station before boarding the train. They are quite different in Denmark compared to America. Who know 7-11 could have such healthy and delicious options? We practically lived on the yogurts and bread for breakfast everyday.

The quaint stroll through Hillerød on the way to the castle

Getting to Frederiksborg

We purchased an All Day Zone pass from the red billeter machine in Copenhagen Central Station. It’s under the Tourist option on the screen. You then take the S-Train to Hillerød, which runs every 10 minutes or so. The train ride there is about 45 minutes with a 20 minute walk to the castle. You should definitely take time to walk through the village as it’s quite beautiful, and allows you to see another part of Denmark.

Optional Add-On
If you decide to leave earlier in the morning you can also go to Louisiana Museum, a gorgeous modern art museum located on the coast. Or you could choose to do a Copenhagen Day Tour which includes Roskilde, Frederiksborg and Kronborg Castle.

The cute Christmas market in Hillerød

Hillerød

During our stroll through Hillerød we stumbled upon a small Christmas market. The gorgeous castle was a lovely backdrop behind the picturesque stalls. The buildings were all so cute and quaint. It was definitely a nice quiet break from the city. In the same square was an adorable windmill, with various shops and restaurants surrounding. We perused the market for a bit before heading on our way.

The Castle

Frederiksborg Castle was built by King Christian IV in the 17th century. It has since been restored after suffering from a fire in 1859. The Renaissance charm definitely shined through here.

The beautiful walk along the lake

We walked along a serene lake filled with ducks as we approached the castle. It was seriously straight out of a fairytale! The path was lined with willow trees and the castle occasionally peeked through as you got closer. When we finally reached the entrance we were in awe! It was truly magnificent and quite a sight to see.

Because we woke up late we didn’t have much time to ohh and ahh at everything. The entrance was quite grand and in the front was a large fountain. We didn’t spent too much time outside since we were dying to take a tour of the inside, but there’s much to explore here.

The stunning and intricate chapel inside the castle

Museum of Natural History

The Museum tour depicts 500 years of Danish history through furniture, art, portraits and paintings. We were enamored with how elaborate and detailed each room was. It truly showed the ever-changing styles throughout the years and made us feel as if we we in that era. You’ll love seeing how royalty lived throughout history.

One of my favorite rooms was Chapel, overflowing with gold details and natural light. We must have spent at least 20 minutes in this room exploring and gawking at all its glory. I especially loved seeing the organ and piano up close, both located on each end. You’ll fall in love with every inch of this space.

The ornate Audience Chamber inside the castle tour

Audience Chamber

The Audience Chamber was another highlight. We walked through a beautiful hallway to get there. I was in awe over the gorgeous stucco ceiling covered with paintings, and the grand chandelier. Even the furniture complemented nicely in the space, every detail was considered during restoration.

You should definitely take an inside tour of the castle and get a feel for Danish history. It was fascinating to get a glimpse of how life was during these years, and what it must have been like to live there.

Stunning view of the castle at sunset taken from the gardens

Castle Gardens

We toured the gardens surrounding the castle last, since the inside was only open until 3pm. It was perfect timing because sunset was starting and it meant for magical fairytale views of the castle. What better than to see a glorious castle at sunset? I took this pretty seriously and spent quite a bit of time getting some shots of this prime moment.

Terra posing in the gardens behind the castle

Since it was winter we didn’t see the garden in full bloom, but it was still very beautiful. You should at least take a brief tour here after seeing the inside. You can also exit here to head back to the train station.

See more: Magical Castles in Denmark

Dinner

We had grand plans for dinner, but they never actually happened. You see I wanted to check out Reffen Street Food, but I guess I should have researched more deeply on their opening hours.

The deserted entrance to Reffen Street Food

Reffen Street Food

We actually travelled all the way there and knew something was up when the area was rather deserted. I was slightly creeped out walking through darkness and industrial warehouses (something I would never attempt in NYC!) When we finally got there, we saw deserted food booths, holiday lights, picnic tables, and a huge sign that said Reffen. It looked extremely cool and we were bummed to have missed it. Definitely check it out and pay attention to their hours! I later learned that they close at 6pm on Sunday, and we got there around 7pm, oops!

We noticed something at the bus stop that made us smile through all the disappointment. There was a box with a sign that said “Leftover bread, take some home!” It showed just how truly kind and trusting the Danish are. I definitely wouldn’t touch that bread if I saw that locally.

After our planned dinner fail, I must admit when we got back to Urban House, laziness set in. So we decided to eat right at our hostel. Ironic considering I was hesitant to even go out for dinner, ha!

The view from the top of the Round Tower

Day 5: Walking Tour and Danish Christmas Lunch

Being the last day in Copenhagen I wanted to maximize all that we could see. I knew we couldn’t fit everything on the list, but that just means we save more for another trip! We explored most of the main sites in the city center and they were all conveniently close to each other.

The long spiral walk up to the top of the Round Tower

Round Tower

The first stop on our tour was the Round Tower during the walking tour, also known as Rundetaarn. It’s one of the oldest functioning observatories in Europe and was built in the 17th century. We walked the long spiral path to the top, which made for some cool photos. When we finally reached the top, it made for an incredible 360 degree view of the city. It was nice to see the city waking up to the morning light.

The view of the outside of Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle

Once we finished at the Round Tower, we walked about ten minutes straight over to Rosenborg Castle. We couldn’t go inside since it’s closed on Monday. Exploring the Kings Garden and seeing it from the outside is still worth it. I imagine the gardens are not as lush as it is during spring and summer, but it was still a delight to see. The outside of the castle itself is a beauty!

The adorable windmill at Kastellet

Kastellet

After we finished exploring Rosenborg, we walked back to Nørreport station and took the train to Østerport station. Nearby is Kastellet located about 5 minutes from the station. We only had time to explore the parks around the windmill. It was a nice and peaceful stroll with beautiful views. If you have more time here you should definitely walk up to the windmill and explore the barracks.

The changing of the guards at Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace

It took ten minutes to get to Amalienborg Palace from Kastellet. We made it just in time for the changing of the guards, which typically occurs around 12pm. It was quite funny to see a crowd of people following the guards around in hopes to get a great shot. I hadn’t originally planned on seeing this event, but it was a happy accident. It makes for some lovely photo opportunities and a unique experience!

Classic view of Nyhavn canal

Nyhavn

On our first day in Copenhagen we had seen Nyhavn at night, but still had hopes to see it during the day. We decided to walk there from the palace. We spent around 30 minutes browsing and shopping for a few souvenirs, then took some photos of the classic view. As many photos I’ve seen of this place, it’s quite amazing to see in person. The colorful building facades reflected so beautifully on the water and we loved seeing all the ships docked here.

One last stop at the Kongens Nytorv holiday market

Lunch

By now we were pretty hungry, but wanted something quick and convenient. We walked over to Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market for some hotdogs and waffles. Coming back here allowed us to browse a bit more and grab some last minute souvenirs. It may have been our second visit here, but I never get tired of the Christmas markets!

The entrance gate to Freetown Christiania

Freetown Christiania

With the sun setting so early, we could only fit in one more area. We chose to see Freetown Christiania since it was vastly different from everything else we’ve seen so far. It took about 15 minutes to get to by bus from Kongens Nytorv area. From there we had to walk into the complex to explore by foot.

Colorful buildings inside the commune

Freetown Christiania is essentially a vibrant hippie community bursting with creativity. It contains unique houses filled with funky art, graffiti and self expression. We noticed a lot of cafes and galleries, and even a horse stable. I’m quite fascinated by the alternative culture of it and the concept of “free rule.” The 900 or so people who live here don’t have to pay taxes and are essentially self-sufficient. It’s a car-free zone, so bikes or walking is a must.

No Photos Allowed

“Pusher Street,” is a famous area within known for it’s sale of hash. We were told “no photos” at the entrance, so I have none to show from here. But it will definitely live on in my memory. We walked past the vendors selling various marijuana products with our toddler in tow. The street was also lined with bright red lanterns, flags, and surrounded by bright urban art.

Street art was everywhere within Christiania

We were amazed to take a brief tour of this place and witness a small community of people thriving on their own. We felt some creepy vibes at times with handwritten messages on wooden boards, decrepit structures, and rustic pathways. I appreciated all the art and creativity here, you can tell the residents have a certain pride here. I’m not sure I would explore it at night, but it seemed most lively in late afternoon.

The cozy holiday interior of Kronborg restaurant

Danish Christmas Lunch

Julefrokost also known as Danish Christmas Lunch is an elaborate party celebrated by either friends, colleagues or family. Although it’s called lunch, it’s technically more so a dinner. There is a lot of talking, laughing, eating and drinking like most parties. Sometimes it ends in dancing and games. I booked this experience at Restaurant Kronborg with the full menu and info here. It’s one of the highly rated restaurants for this event, so it doesn’t come cheap, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget!

One of the first dishes was herring served three different ways

Breads and Fish

We were truly looking forward to this holiday celebration. The affair consisted of many small plates of traditional Danish food. We first had bread with butter and duck lard. We were then served our first course of fish consisting of 3 different types of pickled herring, followed by fried fish, and smoked salmon with eggs. The flavors were magnificent and filled with mixtures of sweet, salty and sour.

Dish with duck and pork meats served with sides of pickles and beets

Meats

After the fish course we were served the meats. First there was duck, liver paté with bacon and mushrooms, and pan-fried pork. This was followed by pork roast and sausage with pickled cabbage and other side complements.

Cheese and Dessert

By now we were quite full, but still had a few courses left. We had various cheeses with fruits and crackers, ending with a rich dessert of rice pudding with almonds and cherry sauce. At the end of the meal the person who found the whole almond got a “prize.” It was such a joyful dining experience that lasted a few hours. Everything was delicious and I always looked forward to the next dish. If you’re in Copenhagen around the holidays, don’t miss out on this festive event.

The cheese plate served before dessert, by now we were so full!

With full and satisfied bellies, we headed back to the hostel for one final night of sleep here. The last night is always so bittersweet, reflecting on your memories there and also dreading the trip back home.

Day 6: Head Back Home

Since our flight was in the morning, we couldn’t fit in any more sites. We had an easy train ride to the airport and through immigration. There’s a lot of shops here for some last-minute souvenirs.

Posing in Magstræde street

We hope you enjoyed our 5 day guide on what to do in Copenhagen. It’s a lovely city to visit, even during the winter! The Christmas spirit is truly alive here during the holidays and made our visit so magical. We look forward to returning during summer season.

Have you ever been to Copenhagen? If so, what other things did you do?

Show us some love and pin for later!

The post The Best 5 Day Guide on What to Do in Copenhagen appeared first on Our Travel Soup.

While planning our yearly Japan travel to visit family, we always make sure to see a new part of the country. Our most recent trip was over the holidays and during the winter season. I instantly knew that I wanted to see a region where snow was guaranteed. We decided upon Shirakawago and Takayama, two beautiful and historic villages nestled within the mountains of the Gifu prefecture.

As you plan your trip, you may wonder what under-the-radar places in Japan you should see. With just a 5 hour trip from Tokyo, these picturesque, postcard worthy villages are very easy to see in a weekend and an experience not to be missed. This can also be integrated into a much larger itinerary.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

Japan Travel Itinerary: 3 Days in Shirakawago and Takayama

In This Article
Shirakawago
Where to Stay in Shirakawago
Shirakawago/Takayama
Takayama/Head Home

Day 1: Shirakawago

Shirakawago is a quaint little village of Gassho-style or thatched-roof homes within the Hida region of Gifu. It is surrounded by the stunning Japanese alps giving a beautiful backdrop, one reminiscent of Switzerland. The village itself gets a lot of visitors, especially during peak seasons, but don’t let that deter you. The best way to experience this town is by staying overnight in one of the houses, as most visitors leave by early evening, giving most of the village to yourself to explore.

How to Get to Shirakawago

Total travel time to Shirakawago from Tokyo is around 5 hours. You will have to take several trains and a bus to reach the village. Here’s some info that will help you find your way there.

Train from Tokyo to Nagoya

The easiest way to get here is via Nagoya. Since we were visiting family first before our trip here, we took the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagoya. In order to make the most of our time we opted for the Nozomi (express) train which was only about 1.5 hours total. Once you arrive in Nagoya you will have to switch to a different train. While you’re at the station we highly recommend grabbing a bento and eating it on the next train. It’s also a great time to grab some souvenirs from here as well!

Optional Extra Night
If you have more time in Japan, you can opt to stay overnight in Nagoya. We stayed at the Westin Nagoya Castle which has gorgeous views of the castle, a must-see while you’re here.

Train from Nagoya to Takayama

The next train you’ll take is the Limited Express Hida to Takayama. The total travel time is about 2.5 hours. We absolutely loved the stunning views as you enter the Gifu region. Along the way we were lucky to come across some snow, which got heavier the closer we got to Takayama. Gero Onsen is an optional stop along the way for an authentic Japanese onsen experience.

Snowfall during the train ride to Takayama

Lunch in Takayama

Depending on what time you arrive to Takayama, you may want to grab some lunch before the bus trip to Shirakawago. We decided to stop at 飛騨産そば 飛騨, a hand-made soba noodle place right near the station, and conveniently located near the bus terminal.

Soba shop in Takayama near the station

Warm soba noodle bowl

Terra helping to grate the wasabi for our soba

It was snowing and quite cold as we arrived, so a nice warm bowl of soba was the perfect way to warm up. The noodles were handmade and absolutely delicious. I chose a simple hot bowl of soba with mountain vegetables. One unique aspect was being able to grate the wasabi fresh at your table with a shark skin grater. This helps to make the wasabi super smooth. Terra really enjoyed taking part in this and helping out. It makes such a difference when it’s fresh.

Takayama to Shirakawago

To get to Shirakawago you must take the Nouhi bus to Shirakawago from the Takayama Bus Terminal. It takes about 50 min to get there. Just like the train, the ride there is very scenic and comfortable.

Half-Day Trip from Takayama
If you don’t plan to stay the night in Shirakawago, you could always book a half-day tour from Takayama. It includes round trip transportation and a guide. You’ll also get a tour inside one of the traditional gassho farmhouses!

Magical snowfall while walking along the main street

The main street of Shirakawago

We arrived in Shirakawago around 3pm and the snow was falling so magically, like a fairytale. It truly felt like we were in a real life snow globe. We walked around the village to explore a bit and tried a few street foods from some of the stalls along the way. The scenery completely took my breath away and I wanted to make sure to capture it. The snow was quite heavy and piled up and was the perfect opportunity to be a kid again and play as if it was a snow day.

Terra walking inside the hall of Magoemon

Standing outside of Magoemon

Where to Stay in Shirakawago

In order to get a full unique experience, we decided to stay overnight in one of the village houses. This allowed us to have a more private experience while most tourists typically just make a day trip here. We decided upon Magoemon, a traditional farmhouse in the thatched-roof style. The inside is very traditional with tatami rooms and a shared bathroom. They also had a private hot bath for soaking, which felt so great after spending time out in the snow. The rooms were heated with a space heater and were quite cozy. Don’t expect a luxurious experience here, but this family-owned place will allow you to experience the true, authentic Japan.

See more places to stay in Shirakawago.

Leisure Time

After getting settled in our rooms and having some tea, we grabbed some boots from the entrance area and headed back out to explore more before dinner. We visited a museum which features historic pictures and artifacts from the village and surrounding area. It was also a great place to take some pictures from higher up overlooking some of the houses.

Terra with grandma (baba) and grandpa (jiji)

Gassho-style houses with a view

View of the village from the museum

As it was getting dark it felt dreamy walking around the streets with fresh fallen snow and lights glistening. Most places close early, but it’s nice to just walk around and experience a part of history, living a more simple life just for a moment.

See more: Shirakawago Winter Experience

A winter wonderland

Nightfall in Shirakawago

Dinner

We were very excited about the dinner at Magoemon. It was served with all guests sitting around an irori, a traditional sunken hearth, which grilled the fish and also heated the room. They served a traditional Honzen-ryōri Japanese meal with a course of several small local dishes including grilled ayu fish, hida beef, eggplant, sansai salad (mountain vegetables), miso soup, rice and sweet potato. At the end of the meal tea was served and it was quite relaxing sitting around the warmth of the irori. We were very full and satisfied after such a lovely dinner presentation.

Dinner was served around an irori, a traditional sunken hearth

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the farmhouse

Day 2: Shirakawago/Takayama

The next morning we woke up quite early since checkout is 9am at the farmhouse. They served a traditional Japanese breakfast around the irori hearth consisting of grilled fish, mushrooms grilled in a miso sauce, picked veggies, seaweed, eggs and fruit. Everything was wonderfully presented and delicious.

Since we got an early start it allowed us some time to check out the observation deck overlooking the village. You can either walk about 30 minutes up a steep hill to get to it, or take a shuttle bus which we did. The bus stops near the terminal in the village and runs every 20 minutes or so. It’s around a 5-10 minute drive to get there and the the cost is 200 yen.

Observation Deck

At the top are gorgeous views overlooking the entire village, with a majestic mountain backdrop. It can get pretty touristy up here, so the earlier you can go the better. As we were leaving we noticed it getting more busy, making it harder to take photos, but luckily we got on the first bus. There’s a souvenir shop with some snacks and sweets, and local items from Shirakawago and the Hida region. They had special kit-kat flavors only found in this area which are always great to bring back home.

Family photo in the observation deck

Glorious view!

Leisure Time

After getting back from the observation deck, we walked around the village a bit more and grabbed a few more souvenirs from the shops. The sky was so clear and blue and the sun was shimmering on all the snow from the night before. It was truly a winter wonderland and a dream to walk through one last time before we departed for Takayama.

A small stream running alongside the village

Morning through a winter wonderland

Optional Add-On
If you have a few extra days you can also choose to stay overnight in Gokayama, a less touristy alternative to Shirakawago. The village is much smaller and more quaint if you’re looking for an even more secluded experience. You can also choose to stay another night in Shirakawago for more time there and take a day trip to Gokayama.

Day 2 Continued: Takayama

To return back to Takayama you take the same bus back from the main terminal in Shirakawago. Upon arrival it was almost time for lunch, but first we went to our hotel so they could hold our luggage for us. We got to explore some of the streets of Takayama along the way and got a feel for the area. The snow was not as heavy as Shirakawago, and was quite slushy from an unusually warm day.

Where to Stay

There are a lot of great options for lodging in Takayama. We decided upon an onsen ryokan called Machiyado Ichiryu. The location was key since it was close to everything we wanted to see and central to most of the sites in town. They specialize in hida beef, a regional specialty that we were excited to try.

See more: Hotels in Takayama

Hida beef sushi

Hitsumabashi dish made with hida beef

Lunch

One of the must eats in Takayama is beef sushi, made from Hida beef which is special to this region. As we explored the nearby streets around our hotel we came across a lot of places with long lines. We were pretty hungry by now, so we found a place with a shorter wait time called Kyoshi. The sushi was quite delicious and the beef was just slightly seared on the top adding another layer of flavor. We also got a hitsumabushi which is typically made with eel, but this one was with hida beef instead. It’s eaten in stages, in four different ways with the final serving eaten in a dashi broth.

Leisure Time

After lunch, we decided to explore the main shopping area of Takayama Old Town. There is an abundance of cute shops and street food that lines the main street. There are beautifully intact Edo period homes and you can get a glimpse inside some of them, like the Yoshijima Heritage House. It’s quite amazing to explore the rooms and get a glimpse of what life used to be like. During our walk we also saw several rickshaws transporting tourists, which is a nice way to get around there.

Hida beef bun shop

One of the must try street foods is senbei, a popular Japanese rice cracker snack. There were several different flavors in Takayama and one of my favorites was the simple shio or salt flavor. There were also beef buns made with Hida beef of course. We also tried dango, a sweet Japanese dumpling from a street cart. There were also several places selling soft cream (soft-serve ice cream) with unique flavors like soy sauce, tofu, salt, and simple milk. Even though it was cold outside, I had to try. It’s definitely worth the trip here alone for the food, some of which is unique to this region.

Dinner

After exploring the old town, we headed back to the hotel to relax before dinner. We took advantage of the free guest access at Spa Alphine, a set of outdoor hot spring baths with nice views of the city. During our time soaking in the bath we experienced a light snow fall and it was such a nice surprise.

Terra’s excited to try the Kaiseki course (she ate all of it of course!)

Hida beef course for hot pot

Dinner is served kaiseki style right inside the room. It’s a set menu of small dishes with an artful presentation, generally with local seasonal ingredients. For our ryokan the focus was on hida beef hot pot. Other dishes included tofu with mushrooms, sashimi, pickled veggies, fish cakes, hida beef bun, rice, miso soup and mini dessert cakes with custard. The beef was so tender, smooth and perfectly filling. It was delicious even with just a touch of salt. All of the other dishes complemented well with it and didn’t overpower the main dish. It was definitely a meal to remember and a great way to get a taste of this part of Japan.

Day 3: Takayama/Head Back Home

Breakfast

A Japanese breakfast was served in a main room within the ryokan. It consisted of a typical assortment of small local foods arranged in a beautiful presentation. These dishes are perfectly filling and create a nice balance of overall health.

Checking out a shop at the morning market

Vendor selling local crafts at Miyagawa Morning Market

Miyagawa Morning Market

After eating we walked over to the Miyagawa Morning Market. It’s held along the river and consists of several stalls and shops selling local food and produce. There’s also some souvenir shops and street food to grab along the way. It opens and closes quite early, so we got here around 8am. The walk was quaint and very peaceful. It wasn’t as lively as I expected, but still nice to see.

We tried a few of the street foods and highly recommend trying the custard. It was heated up and gave a nice cozy feeling with the cold air outside. The cart is quite popular so just look for a line of tourists. There’s a few tables setup to eat at and relax for a bit. There’s also a vendor selling apples. She even slices them for you if you don’t like eating them whole. The apples are so delicious and local to the area.

Takayama Old Town

After getting our fill of the market, we walked back through the Old Town again for one last visit. Since we had a long trip ahead down to Fukuoka, we didn’t have much time to spend in Takayama. If you have extra time to spend we highly recommend checking out the Hida Folk Village. The main reason we left it out is because we had been to Shirakawago and it has a similar feel, but with more time here we definitely would have. It’s a short bus ride a little outside the main part of the village.

We hope this inspires you to visit the Gifu region and spend time in Takayama and Shirakawago. The history, architecture, unique food, and rich local culture is worth a visit.

Have you been to Takayama or Shirakawago? We’d love to hear about your experience there!

Show us some love and pin for later!

The post Japan Travel: Shirakawago and Takayama in 3 Days appeared first on Our Travel Soup.

Morocco is a country filled with unforgotten sights, smells and sounds. It is one of those special places that has left a permanent mark on us. Our daughter still brings up the camels, the cats roaming the streets, the sand and the orange juice (it’s seriously the best!)

In this 10 day itinerary you’ll explore the best of Morocco including coastal cities of Casablanca and Essaouira, the ancient medina of Fes, the incredible colorful city of Chefchaouen, a 3-day desert tour with driving through the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, Todgha Gorge, Dades Valley, and ending in the magical city of Marrakech.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

10 Day Best of Morocco Itinerary Snapshot

In this Article:
Best Time to Travel to Morocco
What to Pack for Morocco
Is Morocco Kid Friendly?
Casablanca
Fes
Chefchaouen
Sahara Desert Tour
Essaouira/Marrakech
Marrakech
Marrakech/Casablanca
Head back home

When to Go to Morocco

The best time to travel to Morocco depends on what type of experience you want, but we find that Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) is most ideal. Our particular trip was end of March through early April and we found it to be much less crowded then. Weather was also perfect, never too hot or too cold which made walking around and our time in the desert tolerable.

For a rich and unique experience, going during Ramadan might interest you. This is typically during May and early June. According to locals, summer is quite hot and it’s hard to do much. So this means end of June through August isn’t the best time to go. If you do happen to go during this time consider visiting the coastal cities instead. Moroccans usually flock to these areas for relief from the heat.

What to Pack for Morocco

Backpacks

We like to travel as light as possible to avoid checking baggage, so we bought a backpack that is compact and can still fit a large amount of stuff. The Osprey Porter 30 is our go-to for traveling light, and this size is guaranteed to be accepted as a carry-on. It fit almost all of our clothes, aside from a few items. We love how it opens just like a suitcase, so there’s no inconvenience of trying to pry stuff from the bottom. There are also straps that snap around your waist for better support and it’s super comfortable to wear. I have back issues and still did ok with this. We used it along with our regular backpack for all three of us during this trip.

Sandals and Comfy Sneakers

I switched between these the entire trip. Sandals are highly recommended for the desert if you want to avoid getting sand stuck in your shoes. I made this mistake and still have bits of the Sahara in my sneakers. These Superga sneakers are so comfy and I walked for hours in them. For sandals I always love my Birkenstocks.

Clothing Layers

The weather in Morocco fluctuates from morning to night. Depending on when you’re there, during the day can be hot, and then at night fairly chilly. So I made sure to pack layers of clothes like t-shirts and cardigans, along with a light jacket.

Kimono and Scarf

As I woman I wanted to be respectful of the culture, so I packed a scarf and kimono to cover my shoulders. It went perfectly with my attire and also fit in well with the vibe.

Medicine

Meds are a must-have for those worst case scenarios. This includes Tylenol, cold medicine, cough drops and any stomach meds. I also pack activated charcoal in case of food sickness and electrolytes to help keep hydrated and healthy. As a fail-safe, I also bring a prescription of antibiotics just to have. If you’re traveling with kids, pack the same for them as well.

Sunblock/Sunglasses

The sun gets quite strong at times, so having both of these will help with that.

Snacks

During the desert tour you may be driving for long periods without stopping, so packing some snacks will help curb any hunger.

Pocket-Wifi

We didn’t find wifi to be available much in Morocco except for hotels and it was quite slow. We’re glad we rented a pocket wifi to help stay connected with our friends and family. We rented ours from Tep Wireless and had a great experience.

Is Morocco Kid-Friendly?

Is it safe to bring kids to Morocco? The answer is yes! We were pleasantly surprised by how kid-friendly Morocco is. There were always available food options anywhere we ate. The locals adored our daughter and she received gifts from some of the shop owners. We weren’t as pressured to buy stuff in the souks. She was showered with attention everywhere we went, I think she must have felt like a princess the whole time. Cats were everywhere roaming the streets, she was in heaven! And the best part is, these are memories she will never forget for years to come.

So if you’re wondering how to spend ten days in Morocco with kids, you’ve come to the right place! This itinerary was created DIY style to suit our taste and desire to see more of the country. There’s a mix of both economical and splurge options, however it can easily be altered to your budget and personal style as well.

Day 1: Casablanca

Our flight had us arriving in Casablanca in the evening. Instead of siteseeing, we opted for just dinner and early sleep to get a great start the next day. If you arrive in the morning we recommend to check out the Hassan II Mosque, we did not see it this trip, but it was highly recommended by locals.

Where to Stay

For lodging we kept it budget and simple since Casablanca was just a means to enter and exit Morocco. We stayed at Hotel Les Saisons. The room itself was very basic, but it provided what we needed for the night. The location was conveniently close to the Casa Port station which connects to Casa Voyageurs, the main hub to travel elsewhere in Morocco.

Dinner:

Nearby the hotel was Casa Jose, a lively and delicious option for dinner. We had the paella and a few tapas, all of which did not disappoint. Cost of dinner was around $50 for all 3 of us, including wine. There was music and a mix of locals and tourists, an overall nice and relaxing introduction to Morocco after a long flight.

The post See the Best of Morocco: 10 Day Family Trip appeared first on Our Travel Soup.