I'd been dreaming about visiting Denmark ever since I did a geography project on it in middle school. I was enthralled by the unique design and culture and longed for an chance to explore the beautiful city of Copenhagen myself. My opportunity arrived while I was studying abroad in Italy. All of my roommates and travel buddies had weekend plans, so I embraced my solitude and bought a ticket to Copenhagen! 

Of course, I was terrified. The was my first time traveling to a new country (where I didn't speak a lick of the language) all by myself. But I was also extremely excited to exercise my independence and to experience Copenhagen as a solo female traveler. 

COPENHAGEN IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR SOLO TRAVELER'S

Although my parents were very concerned for my safety, I never felt like I had to be. Copenhagen is a relatively small city with an open and friendly culture. It is easy to navigate and most people speak English, plus the Danish word for "hello" sounds like "hey" which makes initiating a conversation in English feel much smoother!

WHAT TO DO

1. NYHAVN

When you think of Copenhagen, you think of Nyhavn. Nyhavn is the most iconic and picturesque canal in Copenhagen. Stop and get a meal at one of the bright and colorful restaurants lining the canal or just go for a leisurely stroll by the water and enjoy the sights. 

2. URBAN HOUSE

Even when you travel alone, you don't have to stay alone! Hostels are a great lodging option for solo travelers who want to meet some like-minded people or participate in some hostel events. Following my own travel tips, I stayed at Urban House which is close to Copenhagen's central station and easy to find. Urban House is a clean and spunky hostel with a kitchen, patio, 24 hour self-check-in, and occasional live music performances. 

3. MATCHA BAR

Maybe you've tried matcha before, but have you ever had a matcha popsicle? Visit Copenhagen's Matcha Bar and try things like matcha fudge, matcha granola, and a variety of flavored matcha lattes. Even if you're not a huge matcha fan like me (or if you've never even tried matcha) it's a cute cafe and a very unique experience!

4. TIVOLI GARDENS 

Despite what the name suggests, Tivoli Gardens are not actually gardens. Situated in the middle of the city, Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the world. If you want to add some thrill to your trip, buy and ticket and ride the rides! If not, it's still pretty cool to see an amusement park in the middle of a city, and hard to miss!

5. CAFE PALUDAN 

Ever wanted to visit a bookstore and a coffee shop at the same time? Take a break from exploring to settle down at Cafe Paludan, a cozy bookstore-cafe combo in the city center for a drink, a meal, or a book.

6. FREETOWN CHRISTIANIA 

One of the most interesting and unique places I've ever been, Christiania is a small independent hippie commune situated in the middle of Copenhagen. The commune's legal status is questionable, given that they are still a part of Denmark yet operate independently with their own rules and because of this you are not allowed to take pictures. If you've ever wondered what an incredibly unique, self-sufficient commune established in the 1970's is like, embrace your progressive side and spend some time in Freetown Christiania. 

7. STROLL BY THE RIVER

One of the best ways to take in the incredible architecture and admire the beautiful views in the city is to take a stroll along the riverside. This is the perfect end-of-the-day activity; enjoy your solitude and spend some time connecting with yourself.