Copenhagen
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16°
Time
2:47 AM
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
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.
Home of the current king, Frederik X, Amalienborg Palace consists of four austere 18th-century palaces around a large cobbled square. Notably, Amalienborg is renowned for The Royal Life Guard, and visitors can witness the daily changing of the guards, marked by a ceremonial march from Rosenborg Castle through the streets to Amalienborg at noon.
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 neighbourhood. Taste traditional cuisine in Torvehallerne, a modern food hall, and learn about Danish culture as you cycle between different neighbourhoods and historic landmarks.
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.
Designmuseum Denmark, housed in the historic Royal Frederik's Hospital, presents decorative and industrial design from the Middle Ages onwards. Celebrating Danish icons like Arne Jacobsen, Jacob Jensen and Kaare Klint, it offers a blend of permanent and temporary exhibits, a shop, and a summer café in a charming courtyard.
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.
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.
Home of the current king, Frederik X, Amalienborg Palace consists of four austere 18th-century palaces around a large cobbled square. Notably, Amalienborg is renowned for The Royal Life Guard, and visitors can witness the daily changing of the guards, marked by a ceremonial march from Rosenborg Castle through the streets to Amalienborg at noon.
The neighbourhood of Vesterbro isn't only home to Copenhagen's red-light district and some of the best eateries in town, but also quite a few vintage shops and clothing boutiques that will surely make a fashionista's heart beat faster. Do not miss Istedgade Street, the hippest of them all.
Copenhagen's very own Latin Quarter is made up of 4 main streets (Studiestræde, Sankt Pedersstræde, Larsbjørnsstræde and Teglgårdsstræde), and is known for the variety of creative avant-garde boutiques, as well as second-hand shops and food take-outs. The proximity to the University means the area is always flooded with hip, in-style young students.
Bredgade is Copenhagen's prime location for art lovers and collectors, as here is where most auction houses are established. Antiques, paintings, vintage items and collectables, as well as modern art and design products are to be found here in abundance.
Jægersborggade, once considered somewhat dodgy, has transformed into one of Copenhagen's hippest destinations. Cutting through the upcoming Nørrebro neighbourhood, this street is lined with vintage boutiques, cafés, and even Michelin-starred restaurants.
Even if you're not looking to buy furniture, it might still be worth stopping 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.
BLÆS at Reffen, led by Jette and Sally, blends traditional glassblowing with modern sustainability. Each unique creation, from art pieces to installations, showcases their mastery. The studio, distinct from mass production, offers an intimate glimpse into the glassblowing art through community workshops and events.
Field’s is the largest shopping centre in Denmark featuring 150 stores. Here, 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.
Søstrene Grene is a cosy shop offering a wide selection of home decor, stationery, and various trinkets. It's known for its minimalist and cute design as well as for providing good value for money, which makes it a popular destination for those seeking affordable and stylish items to enhance their living spaces or find charming gifts.
The neighbourhood of Vesterbro isn't only home to Copenhagen's red-light district and some of the best eateries in town, but also quite a few vintage shops and clothing boutiques that will surely make a fashionista's heart beat faster. Do not miss Istedgade Street, the hippest of them all.
Copenhagen's very own Latin Quarter is made up of 4 main streets (Studiestræde, Sankt Pedersstræde, Larsbjørnsstræde and Teglgårdsstræde), and is known for the variety of creative avant-garde boutiques, as well as second-hand shops and food take-outs. The proximity to the University means the area is always flooded with hip, in-style young students.
The best time to visit Copenhagen is from March to August, offering pleasant weather and vibrant events. Spring, from March to May, provides milder temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer brings lively festivals and music, making the city more bustling. June through August offers comfortable temperatures. Copenhageners take advantage of this time to enjoy outdoor activities like swimming in the surrounding ocean and harbours. Alternatively, the winter months, from December to February, represent the most affordable period with lower prices on accommodations and airfare. Despite chilly temperatures, this time is ideal for indoor activities like exploring museums and cafés. Additionally, winter in Copenhagen showcases magical Christmas festivities, contributing to the city's cosy and enchanting atmosphere.
Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup, is located just eight kilometres from the centre of the city. As the largest and busiest airport in Scandinavia, it comprises three terminals, with international arrivals primarily processed in Terminal 3. Various transportation options connect the airport to the city centre, ensuring a quick journey of about 15 to 35 minutes. Trains departing every ten minutes from Copenhagen Central Station offer a 15-minute commute, with convenient connections to the city and beyond via metro, train, S-train, or bus. The Metro operates around the clock, providing efficient travel to key locations, while buses offer a more economical but lengthier 35-minute ride to the central station. Taxis are available outside Terminal 3 but represent the priciest option. Travellers holding a Copenhagen Card enjoy free, unlimited public transport within the entire capital region, covering trips to/from Copenhagen Airport. The card also grants free entry to over 80 attractions and museums, along with discounts at various establishments.
Copenhagen boasts a reliable public transport system, with Metro, S-trains, and buses, including waterbuses, accessible using the same ticket. All you need to know is how many zones you will pass on your journey, which will play a crucial role in determining the appropriate ticket. All three metro lines operate 24/7 for seamless travel. The A-buses are the primary buses in central Copenhagen; they run consistently at all hours, while night buses (N buses) operate from 1am to 5am, identifiable by their grey bus stop signs. The bright red "S" trains connect suburbs and surrounding towns to the city, running from 5am to 12:30am. Biking provides an excellent and popular means of navigating the city, allowing visitors and locals to easily explore its charming streets and attractions while enjoying the bicycle-friendly infrastructure.
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.
DFDS offers daily ferry services connecting Copenhagen and Oslo.
While in Copenhagen, why not get around the Danish way? In Copenhagen, practically everybody rides a bike – it's an easy way to get around and it's 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 various locations around the city and you can easily unlock it with your phone.
Viggo +45 92 45 46 47 Taxa 4x35 +45 35 35 35 35
The Post Office in Denmark is called Post Nord. Red post boxes to drop off your mail are scattered all over the city. You can find an office at Vesterbrogade 74.
The best time to visit Copenhagen is from March to August, offering pleasant weather and vibrant events. Spring, from March to May, provides milder temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer brings lively festivals and music, making the city more bustling. June through August offers comfortable temperatures. Copenhageners take advantage of this time to enjoy outdoor activities like swimming in the surrounding ocean and harbours. Alternatively, the winter months, from December to February, represent the most affordable period with lower prices on accommodations and airfare. Despite chilly temperatures, this time is ideal for indoor activities like exploring museums and cafés. Additionally, winter in Copenhagen showcases magical Christmas festivities, contributing to the city's cosy and enchanting atmosphere.
Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup, is located just eight kilometres from the centre of the city. As the largest and busiest airport in Scandinavia, it comprises three terminals, with international arrivals primarily processed in Terminal 3. Various transportation options connect the airport to the city centre, ensuring a quick journey of about 15 to 35 minutes. Trains departing every ten minutes from Copenhagen Central Station offer a 15-minute commute, with convenient connections to the city and beyond via metro, train, S-train, or bus. The Metro operates around the clock, providing efficient travel to key locations, while buses offer a more economical but lengthier 35-minute ride to the central station. Taxis are available outside Terminal 3 but represent the priciest option. Travellers holding a Copenhagen Card enjoy free, unlimited public transport within the entire capital region, covering trips to/from Copenhagen Airport. The card also grants free entry to over 80 attractions and museums, along with discounts at various establishments.
