Layover Guide

Copenhagen

Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also known as Kastrup, serves as the premier international gateway to Denmark and the largest aviation hub in Scandinavia. Located just 8 kilometers south of the city center, CPH offers unparalleled connectivity for travelers. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, the airport's proximity to the heart of Copenhagen makes it one of the most layover-friendly cities in the world. With efficient transit links and a world-class terminal experience, your stopover in Denmark is the perfect opportunity to taste Nordic cuisine or see iconic sights like Nyhavn.

By James Windsor|Reviewed August 4, 2026

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4,281 Copenhagen layovers

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Cph Copenhagen Airport

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Major Airports in Copenhagen

CPH

Copenhagen Airport (CPH)

CPH is exceptionally well-organized. If your layover is under 3 hours, enjoy the award-winning shops and lounges in the terminal. For longer stays, use the Metro or Train located directly above Terminal 3 to reach the city center in just 15 minutes.

Where to sleepDay-use & overnight

Day-use & overnight hotels in CopenhagenFor long or overnight layovers when sleep is the plan — many airport hotels sell rooms by the hour.Find hotels →

Getting There

Find your flights through Copenhagen

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* Fares are compared live across airlines and agencies for your Copenhagen connection.

Explore the City

Top Things to Do During a Copenhagen Layover

10 experiences to discover

011-2 hours

Stroll Through Nyhavn

Visit the iconic 17th-century waterfront, canal, and entertainment district. Known for its brightly colored townhouses and historic wooden ships.

15 minutes by Metro from airport

022-4 hours

Tivoli Gardens

One of the world's oldest operating amusement parks. It offers a mix of rides, beautiful gardens, and seasonal markets right next to the Central Station.

15 minutes by Train from airport

031 hour

The Little Mermaid Statue

Pay a quick visit to the bronze statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, located at Langelinie pier.

25 minutes by Metro/Walk from airport

041-3 hours

Strøget Shopping Street

Explore one of Europe's longest pedestrian streets, featuring everything from high-end fashion to local Danish design shops.

15 minutes by Metro from airport

051.5 hours

Rosenborg Castle

A Renaissance castle located in the King's Garden, housing the Danish Crown Jewels and 400 years of royal treasures.

20 minutes by Metro from airport

0645 minutes

The Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

Climb the unique spiral ramp of this 17th-century tower for a panoramic view of the old city.

15 minutes by Metro from airport

071-2 hours

Christiania Freetown

Visit the unique, self-governed neighborhood known for its alternative lifestyle, art galleries, and green organic eateries.

15 minutes by Metro from airport

081 hour

Torvehallerne Food Market

A glass-covered market offering fresh produce, gourmet chocolates, and the famous Danish open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød).

15 minutes by Metro from airport

091 hour

Amalienborg Palace

The winter residence of the Danish Royal Family. Catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place daily at noon.

20 minutes by Metro from airport

102 hours

National Gallery of Denmark (SMK)

Denmark's largest art museum, featuring an extensive collection of Danish and international art from the 14th century to the present.

25 minutes by Train/Metro from airport

Viator selectionLive recommendations

Private Copenhagen Boat cruise in Scandinavian mahogany boat

View on Viator

Fits your layover3+ hours layover

Private Copenhagen Boat cruise in Scandinavian mahogany boat

This is a private HYGGE-tour of Copenhagen seen from the waterside in the most beautiful boat in the whole harbour. We make conversation rather than just guiding. If you rather concentrate about each other on a romantic tour - that's possible. Wanna take a swim - we can do that too. The goal is for you to have great HYGGE-time and the proposed itinerary is just a suggestion. Food, snacks and beverages besides water, champagne and white or rose wine is not allowed. The tour is not recommended for children under the age of 15 or people with ANY walking disabilities. Beware that in case of strong wind and/or rain we unfortunately have to cancel with a full refund of course.

Duration

1 hour

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 3h total

Admission

Check on Viator

Ready to book for your Copenhagen layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

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Sights & Gems: Medieval Copenhagen & Nyhavn with a local host

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Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Sights & Gems: Medieval Copenhagen & Nyhavn with a local host

Step into Copenhagen the way locals experience it, relaxed, personal, and full of little discoveries you wouldn't find on your own. Experience Copenhagen on this fun and authentic small group walk. You’ll explore the city with a local, who will show you a mix of highlights and hidden gems along the way. In just two hours, you’ll get an introduction to many of the most important sights as well as some of Copenhagen’s picture perfect hidden pearls, from medieval streets and royal landmarks to colorful Nyhavn and secret courtyards known mainly to locals. Your host brings the city to life through stories filled with history, humor, and everyday culture. Perfect for curious travelers, this relaxed walk is all about connection and understanding Copenhagen from within. After the guided walk has officially ended, those who wish are warmly invited to join the host at a nearby cozy café, where there is extra time to unwind and receive personal tips, recommendations, and local insights.

Duration

2 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (5 mins)

The Marble Church – an architectural masterpiece in the heart of Copenhagen We meet between the stairs leading down to the Marble Church Metro Station, right next to a 7-Eleven, making it an easy and convenient spot to find your guide before we begin exploring this elegant area. Discover one of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks, the Marble Church (Frederik’s Church), celebrated for its magnificent dome, the largest in Scandinavia. Inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, this architectural gem took more than 150 years to complete and is built from striking Norwegian marble with beautifully detailed craftsmanship throughout. As part of our Copenhagen walking tour, it’s a highlight for anyone who loves architecture, history, and culture, and a perfect place to pause and admire the charm of Frederiksstaden, the royal district surrounding the church.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

Nyboder – Copenhagen’s historic naval quarter and hidden gem Step into the story of Nyboder, one of Copenhagen’s most distinctive neighborhoods, founded in 1631 by King Christian IV to house Denmark’s naval families. As part of our Copenhagen walking tour, we stop by the small Nyboder Memorial Rooms, a true hidden gem in Copenhagen, where you can peek through the windows and glimpse scenes from centuries past. Inside, the preserved museum spaces reveal the everyday lives of sailors and their families, with original artifacts, uniforms, and maritime relics that tell the story of Denmark’s proud naval heritage. A quiet, authentic corner of the city that captures Copenhagen’s history in its purest form.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

Rosenborg Castle – royal history in Copenhagen’s oldest garden Admire the fairytale-like Rosenborg Castle, one of Copenhagen’s most beloved landmarks, built by King Christian IV in the early 1600s. This Renaissance masterpiece sits at the heart of the King’s Garden (Kongens Have), Denmark’s oldest and most elegant royal park. From the outside, the castle offers breathtaking photo opportunities and a glimpse into Danish royal history and architecture. As we stroll through the gardens on our Copenhagen walking tour, you’ll feel the calm contrast between the lively city and this peaceful royal oasis.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

The Round Tower – Copenhagen’s royal observatory and city icon Marvel at the Round Tower (Rundetårn), one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable landmarks, built in 1642 by King Christian IV. This architectural masterpiece was created as Europe’s oldest functioning observatory and remains a symbol of the city’s curiosity and innovation. From the outside, you can admire its elegant spiral design and copper-clad roof rising above the old town skyline — a perfect photo stop and a beautiful glimpse into Copenhagen’s royal and scientific heritage.

+6 more stops

Ready to book for your Copenhagen layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

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* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

GetYourGuide selectionLive recommendations

* Suggestions load dynamically based on seasonal availability and ratings in Copenhagen.

Where to Eat

Where to Eat: Copenhagen Dining Scene

Gasoline Grill

Burgers$$City Center / Near CPH

Hallernes Smørrebrød

Traditional Danish$$Torvehallerne Market

Reffen

International Street Food$$Refshaleøen

Høst

New Nordic$$$City Center

Lagkagehuset

Danish Bakery$Airport (CPH) & City

Pizzeria MaMeMi

Italian$$Vesterbro

Restaurant Schønnemann

Historic Smørrebrød$$$City Center

Shop & Browse

Copenhagen Shopping Guide

CPH Airport Duty-Free

An extensive range of Scandinavian brands, perfumes, and Danish design pieces right in the terminal.

0 km

Strøget

World-famous pedestrian shopping street with major brands and department stores like Illum.

8 km

Magasin du Nord

A historic and high-end department store located at Kongens Nytorv.

8 km

Field's

The largest shopping mall in Scandinavia, located just one stop from the airport via train.

5 km

Navigate

Getting Around During Your Layover

Copenhagen's transportation is highly efficient. From Copenhagen Airport (CPH), the Metro (M2 line) runs every few minutes and takes you to Kongens Nytorv in the city center in about 15 minutes. Regional trains also run frequently to Copenhagen Central Station (København H), which is ideal if you are heading to Tivoli Gardens. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available outside Terminal 3, though more expensive than public transit. For a truly local experience, you can rent a bicycle once you reach the city center, as Copenhagen is one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

Good to Know

Practical Tips for a Copenhagen Layover

Check your visa requirements for Denmark (Schengen Area) before leaving the airport.

Use the left-luggage lockers located between Terminal 2 and 3 if you have heavy bags.

Credit cards are accepted everywhere; there is almost no need for cash (Danish Krone).

Download the 'DOT Tickets' app for easy mobile payment for all public transport.

Copenhagen is very walkable; bring comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets.

CPH Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals.

Security wait times at CPH are usually efficient, but check the monitors for real-time updates.

The tap water in Copenhagen is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world—bring a reusable bottle.

If your layover is overnight, consider the Clarion Hotel or Comfort Hotel located directly at the airport.

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Cph Copenhagen Airport

Community Discussions

Real Traveler Advice

TravelBug992 days ago

Does anyone know if immigration is fast at this airport during morning hours? We only have a 4 hour layover and want to see the main square...

AeroExplorer5 days ago

Just did this exact layover last week! A few tips: definitely take the express train instead of cab, it saves about 45 mins. Also make sure...

Travel lightBag drop

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Make Every Minute Count

Layover Time Management

With a 2-4 hour layover, we recommend staying at Copenhagen Airport (CPH). Explore the tax-free shops or relax in one of the many lounges. For a 4-8 hour layover, you have plenty of time to take the Metro to Kongens Nytorv (15 mins), walk through Nyhavn, and grab a Danish pastry before heading back. If you have 8+ hours, you can comfortably explore the major sites: start at the Little Mermaid, walk to Amalienborg, have lunch at Torvehallerne, and spend the afternoon at Tivoli Gardens or shopping on Strøget.

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Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 4 hours enough for a layover in Copenhagen?

Yes, for a 4-hour layover, you can take a quick 15-minute Metro ride to the city center, spend about an hour in Nyhavn, and return to the airport with time for security.

Does Copenhagen Airport have luggage storage?

Yes, luggage storage lockers and a manned desk are available at CPH Airport, located in the area between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.

How do I get from CPH to the city center?

The easiest way is the Metro (Line M2) or the regional train. Both take approximately 13-15 minutes and depart frequently from Terminal 3.

Do I need Danish Krone (DKK) for a short layover?

No, Denmark is practically a cashless society. All shops, restaurants, and transport services accept major credit cards and mobile payments.

Can I leave Copenhagen Airport during a layover?

Yes, provided you have the necessary visa or are from a visa-exempt country. CPH is very close to the city center, making it easy to exit and return.

Is there a hotel inside Copenhagen Airport?

The Clarion Hotel and the Comfort Hotel Copenhagen Airport are directly connected to Terminal 3, perfect for overnight layovers.

Is the Metro to the city center expensive?

A one-way ticket for 3 zones (required for the airport to city route) costs approximately 30-36 DKK, which is very affordable compared to a taxi.

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