Summary
Historic, vibrant, lively, and sophisticated, Copenhagen can signify various experiences for diverse individuals. For the youthful, it represents a literal playground, housing the oldest amusement parks globally alongside some of the trendiest shopping and nightlife destinations. When it comes to culture, one can find historic palaces and museums that showcase Viking and Bronze Age treasures.
Tip: Acquire the Copenhagen City Card to receive complimentary or discounted entry, a canal cruise, and free public transportation.
Copenhagen’s culinary scene has garnered international attention, highlighted by the abundance of Michelin-starred establishments, and the city has long been recognized as one of Europe’s design capitals. It all contributes to a dynamic, progressive, and enjoyable destination in Denmark.
Let us delve into the finest attractions in Copenhagen:
1. Tivoli Gardens
This theme park’s renown is such that many visitors come to Copenhagen specifically to experience Tivoli Gardens. Even if one does not wish to partake in a rollercoaster or carousel ride, it is an unforgettable setting for leisurely strolls, boasting romantic 19th-century depictions of the Orient.
After Bakken, also located in Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens holds the title of the world’s oldest theme park. If you have children accompanying you, they are certain to have a delightful time on the various attractions here.
A notable mention is the Star Flyer, a carousel that elevates its riders to an impressive 80 metres above the ground.
2. Little Mermaid Statue
This instantly recognizable statue positioned on a rock adjacent to the Langelinie promenade surely stands as the most iconic landmark in the city. Created by the sculptor Edvard Eriksen in 1913 as a tribute to the author Hans Christian Andersen, this piece is inspired by Andersen’s famous fairytale.
Upon closer inspection, one may be surprised by the statue’s diminutive size; nevertheless, it remains a must-capture photo opportunity, being an emblematic international symbol.
3. Strøget
This expansive pedestrian avenue offers an extensive shopping experience, featuring high-street and upscale retail options that are certain to satisfy diverse preferences. It ranks among the largest pedestrian malls globally, although one should be mindful that prices may deter some shoppers.
For those seeking independent boutiques, venturing along Strøget into the Old City and exploring narrow side streets will yield delightful discoveries. A wonderful blend of longstanding specialty stores and modern boutiques caters to the tastes of a younger demographic.
4. Nyhavn
Translating to “New Harbour” in English, this historic waterfront locale sits next to a 17th-century canal where antique wooden vessels remain stationed. Flanking the canal are beautifully painted houses from the 1600s and 1700s, with their ground floors occupied by bars, restaurants, and cafes that offer outdoor seating options.
It may be hard to believe, but this area was historically considered a seedy part of town. Today, it stands as one of the premier spots to enjoy a coffee or beer during the summer months.
Additionally, it holds literary significance, as houses numbered 18, 20, and 67 (marked with a plaque) served as residences for the author Hans Christian Andersen at various points in his life.
5. Nationalmuseet
The National Museum of Copenhagen is an attraction where visitors may easily spend several hours without realizing it. It houses a remarkable array of artifacts that span across various eras of Denmark’s history.
Make sure to take a moment to admire the Trundholm Sun Chariot, an exceptional Bronze Age artifact dating back to 1400 BC, featuring a bronze horse statue towing a gold disc symbolizing the sun. According to Norse mythology, the sun travels across the sky in this manner, guided by a divine horse.
The Viking era is comprehensively represented within the museum, and many icons from this collection embarked on a global tour in 2014.
6. Christiansborg Palace
Located on the Islet of Slotsholmen, Christiansborg serves as the seat for Denmark’s Supreme Court, the Prime Minister’s office, and the Danish Parliament. Furthermore, the Danish royal family and the Prime Minister utilize the palace’s ornately decorated reception rooms for formal events and to welcome foreign dignitaries.
The highlight among these reception spaces is the Great Hall, which measures 40 meters in length and can accommodate up to 400 guests. During a guided tour, you will also have the opportunity to visit the Riding School, which boasts an overlooking gallery, and the historic court theatre that was constructed in 1767 and renovated in 1842.
7. Rent a Bicycle
Copenhagen ranks as one of the most cycle-friendly cities worldwide. Residents frequently use bicycles as their primary mode of transportation, and the surroundings are so safe that many individuals ride without helmets.
The city’s flat terrain facilitates cycling, complemented by wide bike lanes that are designed to minimize pollution, encouraging residents to opt for cycling whenever possible. Numerous rental companies abound in Copenhagen; however, the innovative City Bike scheme established in 1995 is particularly noteworthy, with its latest models featuring touch-screen tablets equipped with GPS technology.
8. Botanical Garden
Spanning 10 hectares at the heart of Copenhagen, the Botanical Gardens are esteemed not only for their botanical diversity but also for the exquisite iron and glass structures that enclose them. The conservatory complex, built in 1874, stands as the most impressive of these glasshouses, housing some plant species that date back two centuries.
More than 13,000 plant species are on display within the gardens. Be sure to seek out the Arctic house, where advanced climate control replicates a polar environment conducive to the preservation of Arctic species.
9. Christiania
In Christiania, life follows a different rhythm. Established in 1971 on former military land in Christianshavn, this commune has persevered for nearly five decades, albeit facing challenges in negotiating autonomy with the Danish government.
The best characterization of Christiania is as a tranquil park, featuring historic military buildings repurposed into artists’ studios, organic shops, dining establishments, and venues for performances. Given the presence of drug-related activity here, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with various ‘do’s and don’ts’ prior to entry.
10. Rosenborg Castle
This magnificent palace was constructed by Christian IV at the early 1600s. His extensive reign and involvement in the Thirty Years’ War, which swept across Europe, established him as one of the most notable Scandinavian kings.
The opulent interiors of the palace have hardly changed over the centuries, featuring historical tapestries that narrate the conflicts between Denmark and Sweden. Visitors can explore the king’s chambers, view his restroom, and see where he corresponded with others.
Additionally, be sure to appreciate the 17th-century Venetian glass and the Flora Danica dinnerware collections housed within the tower chambers—some of the finest in existence.
11. The David Collection
Visitors can explore the personal art collection of Danish businessman C.L. David, who generously donated both the building, which is his former residence, along with the collection itself, which includes the most extensive ensemble of Islamic art in Scandinavia.
Additionally, the museum features exhibitions of Danish modern art, alongside pieces from the 19th-century Danish Golden Age and European art from the 18th century. Notably, the marquee attraction is the Islamic section, which includes remarkable works sourced from Spain to India, spanning from the 800s to the 1800s.
The collection prominently displays calligraphy alongside exquisite glass and ceramic items, with free access for entry.
12. Bakken Amusement Park
Providing a rustic alternative to Tivoli Gardens, Bakken is an amusement park that has been in operation since 1583. This distinction makes it the oldest continuously operating amusement park globally.
Tucked away within a beech forest a few kilometers from Copenhagen, Bakken ranks as the second most popular tourist attraction in Denmark following Tivoli Gardens.
Bakken’s attractions exhibit a nostalgic charm, such as the Rutschebanen, a rickety wooden roller coaster that dates back to 1932, and the Hvile music hall, which hosts various cabaret performances. Entrance to the park is free, with ticket purchases required for individual rides.
13. Church of Our Saviour
According to local residents, this church offers the finest views in Copenhagen. Built during the mid-1700s, its distinctive baroque architecture features an extraordinary spire easily recognizable from a distance. The dark tower, adorned with a golden ribbon, spirals upwards, serving as a handrail for the stairway.
Climbing to the viewing platform will require ascending 400 steps; however, for those with a head for heights, the breathtaking views of Copenhagen, including ships entering the harbor, make the effort worthwhile.
14. Going Out
A great starting point for an evening out in Copenhagen is one of the numerous side streets branching off Strøget, where locals congregate and prices tend to be more reasonable compared to the picturesque yet tourist-centered Nyhavn. On weekends, this area serves as an excellent launchpad for an exciting night out in a city renowned for its trendy yet unpretentious clubs, where live music is an integral part of the culture.
For younger visitors, clubs in Nørrebro offer late-night entertainment until five in the morning, catering to various music scenes. Meanwhile, older visitors may prefer traditional beer houses (Bodegas), jazz venues, or a cultural experience at the Royal Danish Theater. A guided nightlife tour is also available for those interested: Copenhagen Bar Crawl (Carlsberg, Pubs, Nightclubs, & More).
15. Danish Cuisine
When discussing Danish cuisine, many envision Smørrebrød, which translates to “butter and bread.” However, the reality is considerably more vibrant, consisting of various toppings such as cheese, cold cuts, eggs, fish, and seafood, all enhanced with seasonings and garnishes. For those unfamiliar, the experience can be likened to Spanish pinchos.
Copenhagen serves as the epicenter for new Nordic cuisine, where culinary innovators employ molecular techniques and highlight the importance of high-quality regional ingredients. Noma, located on Strandgade, is at the forefront of this movement, boasting two Michelin stars and earning international acclaim for over a decade. A Nordic cuisine tour is also available for those interested in exploring this dynamic food scene.
