This time last year I was starting to feel that urge to get away again, and when no one was available to come away with me it provided the perfect opportunity to try something I have always wanted to – solo travel. I was in awe (and still am) of a couple of friends who have gone away on some pretty big trips on their own, and sometimes for a few weeks at a time. I’d been feeling like it was something I should try at least once in my lifetime. Copenhagen is a great destination for venturing into solo travel territory as it is really close to the airport and easy to navigate.
The key, for me, was to plan well as it is daunting the first time you go. I had never even been on a plane by myself, let alone gone away by myself. With a mixture of trepidation and excitement, I stepped out of my comfort zone and set off on my first solo adventure. It is liberating, empowering and gives you a bigger sense of independence than you’ve ever felt before – complete freedom. Not only does it allow you the time to yourself for true reflection on life, it shows you that you are so much more capable than you thought you were. Before I went, I wondered if I might feel lonely, but it is surprising how many others there are travelling solo as well and how easy it is to strike up a conversation. People seem to be much more interested in what someone travelling on his or her own is doing in the country and are more likely to help you out by giving you local advice. My first stop, after checking into my hotel, was a walking tour of the city and there were quite a few other solo travellers too. Handy when one of them is also a photographer and he offers to take your photo in front of the canal ;D
Although solo travel is about spontaneity and exploring destinations at your own pace, having a plan will help you feel more at ease. With a rough plan you’ll feel more relaxed and better able to enjoy the experience. If you plan on making Copenhagen a solo destination, here are some some tips. I would also recommend downloading the Trello app, which is a virtual pin board, accessible from any computer (if you ever lost your phone!), allowing you to plan and upload important documents and information (such as hotel bookings, travel tickets etc.).
Arriving at the airport and getting to central Copenhagen
If you want to go to Copenhagen Central Station (Kobenhavn H), the train is your best option. The train station is located by terminal 3. You can take a free shuttle bus from terminal 1 to terminal 3, which will take 5 minutes.
The entrance to the train station is located near the end of Terminal 3. From the arrivals exit of Terminal 3, walk straight across the terminal. At the end of the terminal, follow the signs towards Track 2 for Copenhagen Central Station, Nørreport, Østerport, Helsingør, Fyn and Jylland.
Take the moving walkway down towards the train tracks where you can board the next train. You do not need to validate your ticket or pass through any gate, just make sure you have your ticket in hand in case any employees or officers ask.
During the day the train runs every 10 minutes while at night it runs about 1 to 3 times per hour. It takes about 13 minutes to reach Copenhagen Central Station from CPH Airport.
Tickets for the train can be purchased at machines in the baggage claim area or machines near the DSB ticket sales counter inside Terminal 3. These machines only accept coins, some credit cards, and most debit cards with PIN. You may also purchase tickets at the DSB ticket sales counter inside Terminal 3.
Citypass tickets can be bought at the ticket machines in terminal 3 just above the railway, and at the DSB ticket sales counter, also located in terminal 3. Please note that the machines only accept coins and all major credit cards, not notes.
Hotel
I stayed at the Axel Guldsmeden Hotel, which is very close to Copenhagen Central Station (only 2-3 streets away) and is set up well for solo travellers. It was also a really nice boutique hotel for my first trip alone.
Walking Tour
A great way to get your bearings and also a good opportunity to meet other travellers. I booked the Copenhagen Free Walking Tour, which started on the steps of the City Hall on Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square).
Things To See
You will see some of these on the tour, but might then want to explore at your leisure afterwards. I saw the following during my brief stay:
- Nyhavn – this is the postcard shot! It is also where Swedish David kindly took a photo of me (thanks David!)
- Torvehallerne – a food market that was a great option for lunch. It closes at around 5pm
- Christiansborg Palace – contains the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Ministry of State.
- Rosenborg Castle – the beautiful 400-year-old castle is situated in central Copenhagen’s popular park, The King’s Garden.
- Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek – if it rains, take a trip here. It is a beautiful museum to just walk around. I loved it.
- Tivoli – an amusement park and pleasure gardens. The park opened on 15 August 1843 and is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. Our tour guide also told us that Walt Disney travelled to Tivoli and it was his inspiration for Disneyland. It really is super cute, especially as the sun starts to set and all the beautiful lights come on.
- Grams Laekkerier – this place, which wasn’t far from my hotel, was made for solo travellers. Visit for really delicious sandwiches and soups.
Most importantly, relish the independence that solo travel brings, as it’s a real opportunity to enjoy the time you spend with yourself and to have life changing adventures. Go solo, and be proud that you did!
