Under $100: Copenhagen, Denmark

Scandinavia’s capital cities are known for being a bit pricey, especially for tourists. Convenient attractions, hotels and restaurants know just how much to increase their prices for the unsuspecting visitor who thinks the city is just another expensive European metropolis. But a bit of creativity in how you spend your krone can go a long way in the Danish capital of Copenhagen.

Start your day with a danish (what else?) and coffee at the inexpensive and delicious Sankt Peders Bageri located on a street with the same name. Next, stroll along the harbor and snap photos of the colorful, port-adjacent row homes. Stop by No. 20 to visit the once-residence of author Hans Christian Andersen.

After a peaceful picnic lunch along the water’s edge (provided by goods purchased at the Torvehallerne Market), visit Christiansborg Palace, but forgo the fees the general admission entry requires. Instead, opt to climb the tower and marvel in bird’s-eye views of Copenhagen. On a clear day, you may be able to spot the shores of Sweden in the distance.

Do some advance research as many of the city’s museums are free to enter on select days of the week. For example, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotck art museum is free on Tuesdays, while the Thorvaldsens Museum of sculptures and the Nikolaj Kunsthal contemporary art house don’t charge entry fees on Wednesdays.

Round out the day with traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches and beer at Café Halvvejen in the city center.