Layover in Copenhagen: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also called Københavns Lufthavn, is the main international airport in Denmark. It’s also one of the busiest airports in the Nordic region. The airport is just 8 kilometers from the center of Copenhagen. It’s a hub for Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian Air Shuttle. More than 30 million people pass through it each year. The airport connects travelers to cities across Europe, Asia, and North America. With its smart layout, modern design, and easy services, Copenhagen Airport is a great place for international layovers.

If you have a Copenhagen airport layover, you’ll find it easy to get through. Whether your stop is short or long, the airport gives you many ways to relax, eat, or shop. If your layover is long and your travel documents allow, you can even visit the city. Copenhagen is close enough to enjoy in just a few hours. This article will show you everything you need to know — from visa rules to what to do at the airport and in the city — based on how much time you have.

To make your time better, you can leave your bags with Qeepl. Qeepl is a luggage storage service near the airport and in the city. With your bags stored safely, you can walk around or relax without anything to carry.

Copenhagen Transit Visa Requirements

Before you begin planning your layover, the first thing to determine is whether you need a transit visa. Denmark is part of the Schengen Area, and for many travelers, this means you can transit or enter the country without a visa, depending on your nationality. However, travelers from specific countries — such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria — are required to obtain a Schengen Airport Transit Visa (Type A) even if they do not leave the international transit area.

This visa allows you to stay in the airside zone of the airport only. It does not permit entry into the Schengen Area. If you wish to exit the airport, you must apply for a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C), unless your nationality allows visa-free entry into Denmark.

To check the exact requirements for your country of citizenship, visit the official Danish visa page managed by the Embassy in Copenhagen. This site lists countries that require visas and explains how to apply, including for airport transit and short stays.

Always verify your visa status before your trip, especially if you plan to leave the terminal during your Copenhagen layover.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Copenhagen Layover?

If your layover is less than 5 hours, it’s usually best to stay at the airport. Travel time to the city and back, along with security procedures, might be too tight for a relaxed city visit.

For shorter layovers, here are the top ways to enjoy your time inside Copenhagen Airport.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Copenhagen Airport has many places to eat. You can try both Danish food and international meals. For something local, visit Aamanns Smørrebrød. They serve traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients. If you like seafood, try Gorm’s. They offer Danish-style pizza and fresh salads with Scandinavian flavors.

If you want something quick and casual, go to Joe & The Juice. They make smoothies and sandwiches. You can also stop by Lagkagehuset (Ole & Steen). It’s a Danish bakery known for its pastries, coffee, and fresh bread. There are also plenty of small cafés and bars near the gates, all easy to reach.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

The shopping area at Copenhagen Airport is one of the best in Scandinavia. You’ll find luxury brands like Burberry, Gucci, Hermès, and Boss. There are also Danish stores like Illums Bolighus, which sells modern home decor and accessories.

You can also visit the LEGO store. It has colorful displays and fun sets for kids and collectors. If you like cosmetics or health products, check out Matas. They offer many items from both local and global brands.

After security, there are duty-free shops. You can buy Danish chocolate, local liquor, perfume, electronics, and more.

Lounges and Nap Zones

If you’re looking for extra comfort, Copenhagen Airport hosts several lounges, including Aspire Lounge and SAS Lounge, accessible to business class travelers and through paid entry. These lounges offer snacks, hot meals, Wi-Fi, workspaces, and showers.

There are no dedicated nap pods at the airport, but quiet areas with reclining chairs are available, especially in non-busy corners of Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Some passengers also use the Clarion Hotel’s day-use rooms, which are directly connected to the terminal, for longer rest periods.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Copenhagen Airport provides free and unlimited Wi-Fi for all passengers. The connection is fast and easy to use. Charging stations are available near many seating zones, and restrooms are clean and accessible.

The airport also offers baby-changing rooms, family areas, and information desks throughout the terminal. Medical assistance is available, and you’ll also find lockers and baggage services near the arrivals area if needed. For those traveling with small children, there are play areas to keep them entertained.

How to Spend Long Layover in Copenhagen?

If you have a long layover and meet the visa requirements, you can enjoy time in Copenhagen itself. The airport is just 13 minutes by train from Copenhagen Central Station, making it easy to reach the city even with a limited window.

Let’s look at how to plan your visit based on your available time.

8-Hour Layover in Copenhagen

With 8 hours to spare, you can see some of the city’s top highlights. Take the train or Metro directly to Kongens Nytorv or Nørreport Station. From there, walk to Nyhavn, the famous harbor lined with colorful 17th-century houses and sailing boats. It’s a perfect spot for a short walk, photos, and a bite to eat.

Continue to Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets. If you still have time, swing by Amalienborg Palace, the residence of the Danish royal family. The city center is compact, so you can enjoy several sights within a short timeframe.

12-Hour Layover in Copenhagen

With a 12-hour layover, you have more time to dive deeper into the city. After seeing Nyhavn and the city center, take a stroll through Rosenborg Castle Gardens and visit the Rosenborg Castle, which houses the Danish crown jewels.

You could then head to Christianshavn and climb the spiral tower of Church of Our Saviour for panoramic views. Another great stop is Torvehallerne, a modern food hall near Nørreport, where you can taste traditional Danish smørrebrød, pastries, and seafood.

If you’re interested in museums, the National Museum of Denmark or Glyptoteket offers great collections — and are both near the central station for an easy return.

24-Hour Layover in Copenhagen

With a full 24 hours, you can enjoy a full cultural experience. In addition to the sights above, consider visiting Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, located right next to the train station. In summer, it’s open late and has concerts, rides, and beautiful lighting.

Spend more time exploring Copenhagen’s neighborhoods, like Vesterbro (hip cafés and galleries), Nørrebro (multicultural food and street art), or Frederiksberg (home to Frederiksberg Palace and a large park).

End your day with a dinner in Kødbyen, the city’s Meatpacking District, which is full of buzzing restaurants and bars. After a night of exploring, hop on the train or Metro and return to the airport easily the next morning.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Copenhagen?

If your layover includes an overnight stay, there are several great hotels close to Copenhagen Airport, offering comfort, easy transport, and a range of prices. Below are some options with details on location and pricing:

• Clarion Hotel Copenhagen Airport: Directly connected to Terminal 3 via a covered walkway. Ideal for short overnight layovers. Offers spacious rooms, a gym, spa, and early breakfast options. Price range: DKK 1,400–2,000 per night.
• Comfort Hotel Copenhagen Airport: Located just 5 minutes from the terminal, also accessible via footbridge. More affordable than Clarion, with clean design, coworking spaces, and early check-out services. Price range: DKK 900–1,400 per night.
• Zleep Hotel Copenhagen Airport: Located about 5 km from the airport, accessible by taxi or public bus. Offers simple rooms and self-check-in. Good budget option. Price range: DKK 600–900 per night.
• Copenhagen Go Hotel: Near Tårnby Station, one stop from the airport by train. Very budget-friendly with compact but clean rooms. Price range: DKK 500–800 per night.
• Wakeup Copenhagen Bernstorffsgade: Located in the city center, about 15 minutes from the airport by train. A good option if you prefer to stay downtown and return early in the morning. Price range: DKK 800–1,100 per night.

All of these hotels offer quick access to the terminals, making your overnight layover stress-free. Many provide early breakfast, airport shuttle options, or late check-ins to accommodate different flight schedules. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in summer and holiday seasons.