Copenhagen
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3:10 PM
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a compact big city packed with historic buildings lining its narrow cobbled streets. Here you will find a great mix of world-class gastronomy, beautiful architecture, award-winning design, clean harbour baths, the unique, free town of Christiania, and the seat of the world’s oldest monarchy. It has been named one of the best cities to live in several times, and it was the first city in the world to be named the "Bike City" by the International Cycling Union – a title to which the several hundred bike lanes bear witness.Find your trip
The legendary landmark known for its world-famous Danish beer is closed for modernisation until 2020. Although the Visitor Centre will not be open to the public until then, the Jacobsen’s brewery will continue to brew Jacobsen beer (Jacobsen Restaurant and Bar will be closed). Carlsberg Brand Store are open Tuesday to Thursday between 11:00 and 15:00. Carlsberg Conference Centre, Carlsberg Museum & Business Centre and New Carlsberg Brewhouse will still be open for events every day of the week during the construction period.
This iconic postcard-ready sight is somewhat of a sudden splash of colour and a definite must-visit when in town. The canal was built to connect Kongens Nytorv to the harbour and was long a haunt for sailors and writers, including Hans Christian Andersen. He wrote The Tinderbox, Little Claus and Big Claus and The Princess and the Pea while living at No 20, and also spent time living at Nos 18 and 67. Stroll along the harbour and sit down for an evening drink in one of the many enticing establishments, most of which offer heating and blankets to make for a cosy time even at low temperatures.
Explore Copenhagen like a local and discover the city on two wheels on this 3-hour guided bike tour. Hop on a bike and discover the Danish capital's highlights, including The Little Mermaid statue, Rosenborg Castle, and Christiania–Copenhagen's most hippie neighborhood. Taste traditional cuisine in Torvehallerne, a modern food hall, and learn about Danish culture as you cycle between different neighbourhoods and historic landmarks.
Home of the current queen, Margrethe II, Amalienborg Slot consists of four austere 18th-century palaces around a large cobbled square. The changing of the guard takes place here daily at noon, the new guard having marched through the city centre from the barracks on Gothersgade at 11.30am.
A sightseeing cruise is one of the best ways to get to know a new city. And in a city surrounded by water like Copenhagen, this is the perfect introduction! Join this 1-hour cruise around Copenhagen's picturesque canals to discover the city's top attractions like the Amalienborg Palace–home to the Danish royal family–the Little Mermaid statue, and the stunning Copenhagen Opera House. Cruise through the canal quarter of Christianshavn past colourful townhouses, cobbled lanes and houseboats and learn about King Christian IV.
Escape the capitalist crunch and head to Freetown Christiania, a hash-scented commune straddling the eastern side of Christianshavn. Since its establishment by squatters in 1971, the area has drawn nonconformists from across the globe, attracted by the concept of collective business, workshops, and communal living. Explore beyond the settlement's infamous 'Pusher Street' – lined with shady hash and marijuana dealers who do not appreciate photographs – and you'll stumble upon a semi-bucolic wonderland of whimsical DIY homes, cosy garden plots, eateries, beer gardens, and music venues.
A 'once upon a time' combo of turrets, gables and moat, the early-17th-century Rosenborg Slot was built in Dutch Renaissance style between 1606 and 1633 by King Christian IV to serve as his summer home. Today the castle's 24 upper rooms are chronologically arranged, housing the furnishings and portraits of each monarch from Christian IV to Frederik VII. The pièce de résistance is the basement Treasury, home to the dazzling crown jewels, among them Christian IV's glorious crown and Christian III's jewel-studded sword.
New York has its Lady Liberty and Sydney its Danish-designed Opera House. When the world thinks of Copenhagen, the chances are they're thinking of the Little Mermaid. Love her or loathe her (watch Copenhageners cringe at the very mention of her), this small, underwhelming statue is arguably the most photographed sight in the country, as well as the cause of countless 'Is that it?' shrugs from tourists who have trudged the kilometre or so along an often windswept harbourfront to see her. Whether locals like it or not, The Little Mermaid has become Copenhagen's most recognisable symbol, and visiting to snap a quick shot is, certainly, worth the detour from the city's core. This commemoration of Andersen's genius is conveniently located right next to the historic fortress of Kastellet, so make sure to walk through the green star-shaped area on your way back.
The legendary landmark known for its world-famous Danish beer is closed for modernisation until 2020. Although the Visitor Centre will not be open to the public until then, the Jacobsen’s brewery will continue to brew Jacobsen beer (Jacobsen Restaurant and Bar will be closed). Carlsberg Brand Store are open Tuesday to Thursday between 11:00 and 15:00. Carlsberg Conference Centre, Carlsberg Museum & Business Centre and New Carlsberg Brewhouse will still be open for events every day of the week during the construction period.
This iconic postcard-ready sight is somewhat of a sudden splash of colour and a definite must-visit when in town. The canal was built to connect Kongens Nytorv to the harbour and was long a haunt for sailors and writers, including Hans Christian Andersen. He wrote The Tinderbox, Little Claus and Big Claus and The Princess and the Pea while living at No 20, and also spent time living at Nos 18 and 67. Stroll along the harbour and sit down for an evening drink in one of the many enticing establishments, most of which offer heating and blankets to make for a cosy time even at low temperatures.
Restaurant Peder Oxe opened in 1978 and it is therefore one of Copenhagen’s oldest restaurants. Peder Oxe lies at the historical Gråbrødretorv, which makes your visit a big experience. Peder Oxe focuses on using the products of the shifting seasons, which gives the guest a unique exquisite meal beyond the usual. For lunch it is recommended to try the Danish speciality open sandwiches – in Danish called smørrebrød.
Høst is a cosy rustic restaurant specialised in Scandinavian cuisine, so if you're looking to see what Nordic cooking is all about - look no further. The pre-set menus are highly recommended by patrons and often include surprise dishes in between the set courses. Portions are small, but their abundance will make up for the modest size.
Located in the trendy neighbourhood of Nørrebro, Kiin Kiin is a Thai restaurant that was awarded a Michelin star. Thai classics with a twist are served as part of daily menus and wine pairings are recommended. To remind you even more that you are having a Thai dinner, guests are seated in rattan chairs.
The fabled duck comfit sandwich served here is said to be life-changing, and the place's location inside the trendy market of Torvehallerne allows you to browse through some amazing deli items and look at freaky sea monsters in the fish section after lunch.
If you're in search for an upscale dining experience while in Copenhagen, look no further. Restaurant Krebsegaarden brings art not only into its food, but it also aligns its decor with the current exhibitions at the Krebsen Gallery nearby, which means patrons enjoy a new exposition at least eight times a year. The quality of food and service is, naturally, superb.
The seating area of this tiny fine dining restaurant might as well have been someone's dining room. The cosiness does not take away from the impeccable service and high quality of food served - the restaurant lives up to the status of having a Michelin star. Portions are very moderate, which is compensated by the number of courses - up to 14 at a time.
The Danish winner of "Best Bistro/Brasserie" in years 2009 and 2012, this restaurant is still going strong and offering top-notch French cuisine in a very Parisian-style cafe setting.
A wonderful place to make your salad dreams come true - the variety is impressive, and prices are fair. This is a local healthy lunch favourite that draws customers from even far-lying areas.
Restaurant Peder Oxe opened in 1978 and it is therefore one of Copenhagen’s oldest restaurants. Peder Oxe lies at the historical Gråbrødretorv, which makes your visit a big experience. Peder Oxe focuses on using the products of the shifting seasons, which gives the guest a unique exquisite meal beyond the usual. For lunch it is recommended to try the Danish speciality open sandwiches – in Danish called smørrebrød.
Høst is a cosy rustic restaurant specialised in Scandinavian cuisine, so if you're looking to see what Nordic cooking is all about - look no further. The pre-set menus are highly recommended by patrons and often include surprise dishes in between the set courses. Portions are small, but their abundance will make up for the modest size.
Field’s is the largest shopping centre in Denmark located with excellent accessibility for all. In Field’s you get everything under one roof. It is Copenhagen’s ultimate shopping and leisure destination and the perfect place to shop, eat and meet your friends.
Looking to shop for local fashion of the upper price range? Do stop by Wood Wood - a Danish brand that produces clothing and accessories. The store also features a few hop brands from the USA and Japan.
Even if you're not looking to buy furniture, it might still be worth to stop by this iconic Danish home store to look around and marvel at the cleverly designed items a stylish Danish home may contain. You might not be able to resist the temptation to make a purchase.
If the men's look you see on Danish streets is something you see yourself pulling off, drop by Norse Projects and browse through some incredibly hip menswear styles. The store sells a variety of different styles of its own label.
Spiritus connoisseurs shouldn't miss this Copenhagen mix of showroom and liquor shop that sells high-quality wines and boasts an incredible selection of whiskeys. This establishment even hosts events, so take a look at the website if interested.
One of the few big shopping malls in Copenhagen, Illum is a shopping venue with stores and boutiques displaying both Scandinavian and international brands. There is a grocery store in the basement which is rumoured to offer a nice selection of wines and cheeses.
Magasin du Nord is an iconic, long-standing upscale shopping venue. Multiple Scandinavian and international brands are represented at this department store, and items range from household goods to clothing and cosmetics.
If outrageous and extravagant clothing is something you dare to wear, Henrik Vibskov's boutique is the right place for you. Those whose tastes lean into a slightly more conservative direction will still enjoy browsing through this store's one-of-kind clothing items, even if for entertainment only.
Field’s is the largest shopping centre in Denmark located with excellent accessibility for all. In Field’s you get everything under one roof. It is Copenhagen’s ultimate shopping and leisure destination and the perfect place to shop, eat and meet your friends.
Looking to shop for local fashion of the upper price range? Do stop by Wood Wood - a Danish brand that produces clothing and accessories. The store also features a few hop brands from the USA and Japan.
Denmark can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Copenhagen attracts visitors all through the year, its highest season (in terms of visitor numbers) falling on July and August. To take advantage of comfortable temperatures and avoid the bulk of tourist masses, visit in May, June or September.
DFDS Seaways has daily departures to Copenhagen from Oslo, and vice versa. See www.dfds.no for more information.
Copenhagen has the shortest distance from airport to the city in Europe. It only takes 15 minutes by metro from the airport to Kongens Nytorv and 12 minutes by train from the Central Station to the city centre next to Tivoli. The train station is located in Terminal 3, and the metro station is right above it. Tickets may be purchased directly in Terminal 3 from self-service machines of a DSB ticket sales counter.
The Copenhagen Metro, which has been ranked the best in the world for several years, runs between the airport and the city centre - useful for both tourists and locals. It takes just 15 minutes to get from the airport to Kongens Nytorv in the heart of Copenhagen, but you can also get off at Christianshavn or Nørreport. www.m.dk S-trains - The bright red regional "S" trains connect the suburbs and the surrounding towns with the city. www.dsb.dk Buses are efficient and use the same ticketing and pricing system as the S trains and the metro. www.moviatrafik.dk
While in Copenhagen, why not get around the Danish way? In Copenhagen practically everybody rides a bike – it is an easy way to get around and it is good for the environment. Rent a bike from your hotel or at one of the many bike rental shops in the city. One of the most popular bike rental shops is Donkey Republic. You can rent a bike and pick it up from a various amount of places, you can easily unlock it via your phone!
Denmark can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Copenhagen attracts visitors all through the year, its highest season (in terms of visitor numbers) falling on July and August. To take advantage of comfortable temperatures and avoid the bulk of tourist masses, visit in May, June or September.
