Copenhagen on a Budget

 

Denmark is expensive. You can't avoid that. But you can still see Copenhagen without spending all your kroners.

Free Things to Do:
(These are in order, concerning distance from closest to farthest away if you start at Norreport station. They are all within walking distance.)

• The Botanical Gardens : This is a Copenhagen gem. Climb the spiral stairs in the Palm House, marvel at the plants from all over the world, and see many neat statues. I could walk around here for hours. 
• Rosenborg Castle Gardens : This is next to The Botanical Gardens and is a great way to enjoy the city on a sunny day. Smell the roses, view the Alice in Wonderland esque gardens, or have a picnic. Fun fact: It's the oldest and most visited park in central Copenhagen. 
• National Gallery of Denmark : This is a great art museum because it combines both historical and modern art. I thought it felt like half Louisiana and half Ny Carlsberg Glypotek, but those both cost money and this one is free! 
• Post and Tele Museum : As a Communication major, I don't know why I didn't go to this museum sooner. When I actually went, I realized I wasn't missing much. it's pretty small, only takes like an hour to go through and yeah it can be a bit boring. My favorite parts were seeing the progression of telephones and cell phones. It's still worth going to. 
• Black Diamond library : What an amazing architectural structure. I felt like I was walking inside a piece of art. They have a couple free art exhibitions and others cost a little bit. You can see all the students studying and working on group projects and can simply enjoy the view of the waterfront. 
• National Museum of Denmark : If you want to learn about Denmark's history, this is the place for you. I recommend the Stories of Denmark exhibition 1660- 2000 because it lets you see a great range of history. My honest opinion is that it's worth seeing but beware because it can be a bit boring.  
• Nyhavn : The all- mighty Copenhagen tourist trap. I'll never understand why this and The Little Mermaid are the poster children for Copenhagen. Anyway, walking around and taking a new Facebook profile picture by Nyhavn is free. However, do not eat at the restaurants and cafes there because they are overpriced and poor quality. Go anywhere away from the touristy streets.  

Cheap Things to Do

• Round Tower : costs just 25kr and gives you a great view of the city. 
• Rosenborg castle : it's 60kr for students and 90kr for adults. You can see the crown jewels and the spectacular castle. It's a must-do if you want to feel royal and see how the wealthy kings and queens lived.
• Canal Tour: While in Nyhavn, hop on a guided canal tour because it's a great way to see Copenhagen. It costs a reasonable $6 or so and lasts like an hour. 

Cheap Eats

• A pastry : they usually cost about 20kr and can fill you up. I recommend Sankt Peder's Bakery and Lagkagehuset
• Chinese box : This isn't very Danish but you can get a take away box of greasy Chinese food for just 30kr
• Sandwich Pigen : they have big sandwiches and large salads for about 50kr. Popular among DIS students
• Studenterhuset : A wonderful place for American and Danish students. They have the cheapest coffee, food and beer. I remember they had a deal where you could get a coffee and croissant for 10kr

I'm happy to share a few of the things I've learned from my time in Copenhagen with others :)