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We have lived abroad for 10 years so we were beyond exited to be back in our hometown of Copenhagen these past few weeks and wanted to get the most out of it. Denmark’s beautiful capital (if we say so ourselves 😊) is filled with sights, history and culture, but mostly we Danes are proud of the chill-out atmosphere which truly is special and ever-present in Copenhagen
Below we show you the 8 most danish places you simply can’t miss in Copenhagen.
Stroll The Nyhavn
Nyhavn is Copenhagens old harbour and also the home of H.C. Andersen for more than 20 years. Here he lived side by side with the lower classes of the city, other artists of the time as well as the local fishermen. Today, the feel has certainly changed to a relaxed place which is also fun for kids and it has become one of the most touristic spots in Copenhagen, so try to come early. Nyhavn, however with its wonderful colored facades along the sea, has absolutely still kept its charm from the golden days.
Nyhavn, København K, 1051 København, Denmark
Visit The Little Mermaid
Inspired by the fairy-tale from the famous Danish children’s storyteller Hans Christian Andersen – the Little Mermaid is one of Copenhagen’s most famous tourist attractions.
The fairy-tale is about a young mermaid who fell in love with a young prince on land and sits on rocks in hope of catching a glimpse of him.
Spoiler alert, The little mermaid may not be as big and impressive as you think, however, being an iconic statue of Denmark and Copenhagen it should not be missed. In addition, Langelinie where she sits is lovely and next to the old fortress of Kastellet which is also worth a stroll. Getting there on public transport can be tricky, so I would prioritize to make the 20 minute walk there along the harbour enjoying the sights of the boats and the sea which is absolutely worth it. The bronze statue celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013.
The Little Mermaid, Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
Take to the sky – Walk to the Top Of The Round Tower (Rundetårn)
You can walk, and back in the day even ride your horse up to the top of the tower, which is a spiral path, around 200 meters in length, up to the top of the 36-meter tall tower. Its a nice effort, so put on your comfy shoes. The tower is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe, and was built in the 17th century by Christian the IV, who also has the iconic Børsen building to his name. From the top you can enjoy the views of the old part of Copenhagen and point out the city’s main sights and narrow streets to the seaside.
In the horizon you see Sweden, connected to Copenhagen via the Øresund Bridge, and underwater tunnel.
The Round Tower, Købmagergade 52A, 1150 København, Denmark
Dining and History at the National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum exhibits an amazing collection of artifacts from the Viking Age, and displays a great walk-through of the era and the impact it still has on Danish histotry and self-awareness today. See the well-preserved remains of the Huldremose Woman, dating back to the first century, and one of the
The museum is located in the Prince’s Palace, built in 1744 and once the home of the Danish Crown Prince Frederik V. Although no longer used by the royal family, you can still admire the design, architecture and furniture preserved today.
In the end, eat your way through history at Restaurant Smør. Rooted in the classic danish kitchen and traditional dishes, the restaurant serves up dishes with reference to historical events in Denmark, and is also fun for kids.
National Museum of Denmark, Prince’s Mansion, Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 København, Denmark, +45 33 13 44 11
Discover The World’s Oldest Amusement Park
Tivoli is world renowned to the point that many people come to Copenhagen just t visit Tivoli Gardens....And even if you’re not in the mood to get on a rollercoaster or carousel it’s an unforgettable place thanks to its romantic 19th-century representations of the Orient.
Tivoli Gardens is also the world’s oldest theme park, and if you do have kids with you they will have the time of their lives on some of these rides.
Worth special mention is the Star Flyer, a carousel that takes you up 80 metres above the ground and the Golden Tower, an 80 meters free fall after having enjoyed the beautiful views of the Copenhagen rooftops
Visit The Home Of The Danish Royal Family
Amalienborg Palace is a palace complex made of four identical buildings, which are the official residences of the Danish royal family. Margrethe II is the current Queen of Denmark, having ascended the throne in 1972. The Palace was constructed in the 1700s and is considered to be one of the greatest works of Danish Rococco architecture. See the statue of King Frederik V, located in the middle of the palace square. Don’t miss the changing of the Royal Guard every day at noon. For a better look into the lives of recent Danish royalty, visit the Amalienborg Museum.
Amalienborg, Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 København, Denmark
Taste the Local Brew at Carlsberg - They also make loads of special organic kids drinks
Visit the location of the first Carlsberg Brewery, a Danish brewing company founded in 1847 by Jacob Christian Jacobsen. In addiiotn to brewing the area is also considered for the most architecturally stunning brewery in the world. Upon arrival to the brewhouse you are pass through the iconic Elephant’s Gate: four life-size elephants ‘holding’ the gate bearing Carl Jacobsen’s Latin motto “Laboremus pro patria” – meaning “We work for our country”.
I am completely biased in recommending this place in that my good friend has worked here for many years and we have found memories but it does not take away from the fact that the still the place has much to offer. Discover the history of Carlsberg beer, named after the owner’s son Carl, while enjoying interactive exhibitions. On the tour you will see the world’s largest beer bottle collection, old brew house, award-winning stables and finish in the bar with a real beer tasting experience. Take a look around the sculpture garden, once owned by Carl Jacobsen, a real forgotten gem of the tour.
Visit Carlsberg, Gamle Carlsberg Vej 11, 1799 København, Denmark, +45 33 27 12 82
Shop On The Strøget Street
Walk along one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and explore the numerous shops located there. On the 1.1 km long Strøget Street you can find the stores of big international brands: from luxury ones, such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Prada and Boss, to more affordable ones, like H&M, Zara and Vero Moda. The street is also popular with Copenhagen’s street performers, so you can enjoy the shows of musicians and acrobats.
Any Foodies around?
If you are into good food, local food, fusion, fresh food or maybe a good cup of coffee or a glass of wine, you want to visit Torvehallerne. This is kind of like a market, but it's also the place for a nice breakfast, a stroll through to see some local or exclusive food stalls, home made cakes and chocolates, fresh fish and meat, dinner, or maybe you want to buy flowers? This place has it all and even if you are not looking for any of the above listed situations, you still want to stop by Torvehallerner. There is a good atmosphere, and don't forget that there are two buildings to explore. It's right at the transportation hub of Nørreport, so chances are that you will pass by anyway. Do yourself the favour and go.
Torvehallerne, Frederiksborggade 21, 1362 København, Danmark, +45 70 10 60 70