The Insider's Guide to Copenhagen

Welcome to Copenhagen! If you're planning to move to Copenhagen, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Copenhagen has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Copenhagen.

Copenhagen is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for both tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular sites is the Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park and pleasure garden that has been around since 1843. It features rides, gardens, restaurants, and a theater, and is a great place to spend a day. The Nyhavn waterfront is also a popular spot, with its colorful buildings, restaurants, and boats. The Little Mermaid statue is a must-see, as is the Rosenborg Castle, a 17th century royal residence. The National Museum of Denmark is also worth a visit, as is the Round Tower, a 17th century observatory.

Copenhagen is known for its vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. Some of the most popular restaurants include Noma, a two Michelin-starred restaurant that serves Nordic cuisine; Amass, a modern restaurant that focuses on sustainability; and Manfreds, a casual eatery that serves organic dishes. For nightlife, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, such as Jolene, a hip bar with live music; Bakken, a nightclub with a variety of music; and Culture Box, a club that hosts international DJs.

Copenhagen is also a great place for recreational activities. Popular activities include cycling, which can be done along the city's many bike paths; kayaking, which can be done on the canals; and sailing, which can be done at the Royal Danish Yacht Club. There are also plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, such as the King's Garden, the Botanical Garden, and the Frederiksberg Gardens. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of sports facilities, such as the Copenhagen Sports Park, the Copenhagen Swimming Stadium, and the Copenhagen Ice Skating Rink.

Cigna Global Health
Get Quote

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Cigna Global Health

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Get Quote

Insider Tips from Expats in Copenhagen: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Try Facebook groups- there are some expat in Copenhagen groups. Unfortunately, compared to other countries, Denmark lacks in terms of organizations to help meet other people, as many require Danish proficiency. My best advice- if you have a child, get involved with your child's international school, you are sure to meet tons of expat families and local Danish ones, and is a great way to meet new people," said one expat living in Copenhagen .

"Expats in Copenhagen often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in the area," wrote a member in Copenhagen.

Cigna Global Health
Get Quote

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Cigna Global Health

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Get Quote

"Lives revolve around family, if you are from the US for comparison, life here is significantly LESS stressful in terms of work. The working hours here are shorter, and most jobs require around 37.5 hours a week. Lots of vacation too and amazing maternity leave benefits. All of these contribute to more family time, and in general Danes tend to prioritize family time or meet friends usually in a small social circle. Of course, some expats want to meet a lot of people (myself included), and there are opportunities to meet through expat groups (see above). Additionally, there are sports clubs although check beforehand as most of not all speak Danish :( However, DON’T be discouraged from exercise, there might not be groups but many Danes and expats alike like to spend time outside with their family. Many residents of Copenhagen are extremely active, and a large population bike or walk to work/school, go to the gym, run, etc. For group sports for kids, check with your child’s school, many offer programs. For adults, your options may be more limited but try social media to find groups, or if not create a group with fellow locals and expats :)," commented an expat living in Copenhagen .

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Copenhagen is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its high quality of life, with excellent public transportation, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of green spaces. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and other places to work and socialize. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to make friends and find support. The cost of living is relatively high, but the quality of life is worth it," said an expat in Copenhagen.

Cigna Global Health
Get Quote

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Cigna Global Health

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Get Quote