Why Copenhagen Feels Like One of the Happiest Places on Earth
I didn’t plan much—just a spontaneous decision to book a flight and spend the weekend in Copenhagen. Two days turned out to be nowhere near enough.
What struck me most wasn’t just the museums or landmarks (though there are plenty), but the overall lightness of the city. Late summer in Northern Europe feels tailor-made for walking, and Copenhagen rewards every step. It's compact, scenic, and quietly joyful in a way that’s hard to put into words.
Day 1: Sunrise Runs and Storybook Streets
I started the day with a morning run through the harbor, passing rainbow-colored houses and a quiet little park where the Little Mermaid sits. Early mornings here are peaceful—hardly anyone around, just the sound of footsteps and soft waves. The golden light hitting those pastel buildings felt like something out of a fairytale.
Running is my favorite way to explore a city, and Copenhagen made it especially rewarding. I ended up at Coffee Collective for breakfast—minimalist, good vibes, and solid coffee.
After that came Rug Bakery, where I may have found my new favorite: their cinnamon swirl with almond paste is dangerously good. (Yes, I went back the next day.)
With my expandable backpack slung over one shoulder—light, compact, but roomy enough for my day—I drifted through the city on foot, visiting the National Gallery, Statens Museum, and Rosenborg Garden. The New Carlsberg Glyptotek totally surprised me—it’s more than just sculpture; it’s an oasis.
Later, I spent a few quiet hours at Tivoli Gardens. It was my first time going solo to an amusement park, and oddly, it felt perfect. I rode the rides, watched the lights come on, and even treated myself to a rooftop drink at the Tivoli Hotel. Just me, a sunset, and a little city magic.
Day 2: Art and Slow Moments
I started the morning—where else—back at Rug for another cinnamon bun. Then it was off by train to Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. It’s a bit out of town, but worth every minute. The views alone—art framed by glass windows, sea breeze in the background—made the trip feel meditative.
Back in the city, I stopped by Sek for a quick brunch (a bit underwhelming, if I’m honest), and wrapped up with a final coffee at La Cabra before heading to the airport.
Slow Days, Light Bags, and Real Joy
I didn’t hit every landmark. I didn’t rush. I just walked a lot, paused when I wanted, and let the city reveal itself. In a place like Copenhagen, that feels like the right pace.
For city walking, I couldn’t have picked a better travel companion than my expandable backpack—big enough for an extra layer, snacks, and even a camera, but light enough that I forgot I was carrying it.
Before leaving, I stopped by a few small shops—Boli for simple, well-designed pieces, and Studio Arhoj where I found a cup and a small keepsake. Didn’t find anything I loved at Ganni, so I passed.
If happiness had a city layout, Copenhagen might be it. Small enough to wander without a plan, full of green corners and open benches, and a quiet kind of contentment in the air. It easily makes my top 3 European cities—for how effortlessly it makes you feel at ease.
Explore the backpack that made this trip easy → Lightweight, expandable, and perfect for spontaneous travel.
