A city that has more cycles than cars, Copenhagen is often known as one of the most sustainable, happiest and liveable cities in the world. The bustling capital of Denmark perched on the coastal islands of Zealand and Amager is indeed a city that wears many hats. From insightful museums and enchanting neighbourhoods to an alluring waterfront and plenty of historical sites, Copenhagen is a city that is a favourite with both tourists and travellers. Whether you are a nature lover, culture vulture or history buff, Copenhagen offers all this and much more. Read on to find out more:
City for all Seasons
While summers are arguably the best time to visit this Scandinavian city, winter is also a very popular time to visit Copenhagen. From hygge vibes to winter markets, Copenhagen exudes an ambience of festivity and celebration during the winter months. The highly popular Tivoli Gardens which dates back to 1843 is the second oldest amusement park in the world and is a sight to behold during the winters with their colourful Christmas markets. The park which is replete with theatres, restaurants, cafes, flower gardens, lakes and a host of amusement rides is suitable to visit for all seasons with special activities and decorations during the summer and autumn too. From trekking and hiking in the summer to harbour bathing and saunas (called Saunagus which is a Danish version of sauna therapy) in the colder seasons, Copenhagen offers a plethora of activities irrespective of the season you visit.
The city has an alluring waterfront which is again a place for all seasons. The vibrant Nyhavn which is one of the most Instagrammable places in Copenhagen is a favourite hotspot with visitors. Rows of brightly coloured town houses that date to the 17th and 18th century form a picture-perfect fairy tale like setting amidst old ships that have been impeccably preserved. The area is home to several restaurants and cafes and is a great way to soak in the local culture and vibe of the city.
It is key to note that one of most famous houses in Nyvahn is house number 20 which was once the residence of famous Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen. The famous fairy tale author spent a considerable part of his life in Copenhagen and there are multiple sites in the city where one can trace his footsteps. The waterfront also houses one of the city’s most famous statues the Little Mermaid which is again an ode to Andersen’s book of the same name. It is one of the most significant symbols of the city and dates back to 1913. Do not miss the statue of the author at Andersen’s Boulevard in the City Hall Square and if you are interested to find out more about the author and his timeless stories do visit The Andersen Experience centre nearby. It is interesting to note that Andersen was buried at the city’s famous cemetery Assistens Churchyard and his grave is visited by locals and tourists today.
On a Trail of Royalty
If you are a lover of history, take time to visit some castles, palaces and places ridden with royalty. Take a guided tour of the Christiansborg Palace which gives you an insight into how the yesteryear kings and queens lived. The art on the walls, the furniture in the royal reception rooms as well as royal artefacts are awe inspiring to say the least. Today this magnificent palace is the home of the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. Amalienborg which is the winter residence of the Danish royal family is again worth a visit and if you happen to be there during the change of guard ceremony, make sure you catch the musical handover ritual. The royal palace of Frederiksberg as well as Rosenborg which is in the centre of the city are again insightful places to visit. While in Rosenborg do not miss the collection of Danish crown jewels and other treasures.
Diverse Attractions
Apart from exploring monuments and the waterfront, one can take a canal cruise which takes you through the city’s bridges and harbours. This one offers a totally different perspective of Copenhagen and is a great way to see some of its famous architectural landmarks like the Church of our Saviour, Copenhagen Opera House and Copenhill from a distance. If museum hopping is your beat, then make your way to the National Museum of Denmark if you are a history lover, the museum of Illusions as well as the renowned Design museum. The Round Tower in the centre of the city is Europe’s oldest functioning observatory dating to 1642. It is key to note that this monument was a great source of inspiration for Hans Christian Andersen who visited the place several times.
If you want to experience the bohemian vibe of the city, head over to Freetown Christiania which is a neighbourhood replete with cool cafes, artistic murals, eclectic street art and boutique shops. The Torvehallerne food market is yet another gem if you are looking to soak in the local gastronomical culture of the city. With over 80 stalls, it is here that you can lay your hands on local produce including fruits, vegetables, spices and items like handmade soaps and cosmetics. And before you leave the Denmark capital make sure you sample some of their delectable local fare including Danish hot dogs, cardamom croissants and a whole lot of pastries and buns.
