There may have been something rotten in the state of Denmark at Hamlet’s time, but you can not say the same about Copenhagen today.
Come to discover this city, take note of the 5 top things to do and see, and book your stay in our best hotels:
– Scandic Sydhavnen – 4 stars
– Quality Hotel Airport Dan – 3 stars
– Copenhagen Go Hotel – 2 stars
– Hilton Copenhagen Airport – 4 stars
– Cabinn Copenhagen Metro – 2 stars
This lively European capital holds several eco-friendly records:
– In 2014 it was elected European Green Capital.
– It aspires to become the first city in the world with zero emissions and no landfills.
– It is considered the world capital of the bicycle (normally used by the royal family!).
– The central Strøget, with its bars and shops, is the longest pedestrian street in the world (something less than one mile).
Copenhagen is nice, beautifully kept, cheerful and colourful. Here ancient and modern, culture and fun, mingle in harmony. It is the city of fairy tales, princes and tragedies. Ten minutes away by train there is the famous Kronborg Castle, where Shakespeare set the Hamlet. In the old town centre you can admire several castles and royal buildings.
And then there is the little Mermaid statue, silent and motionless at the entrance of the new port, bronze and mournful waiting for her beloved. This famous sculpture is inspired by the protagonist of the well-known fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and has become the symbol of the city.
Are you going to stop only for few days? Can you stay a bit longer? Copenhagen will not disappoint you in any case. We will suggest you what to see and do within the inner city. So, what are the 5 things you can not miss, that you have to fix in your mind and take with you forever?
What to See In Copenhagen: Around The City
1. The Nyhavn is the old port area, characterized by the ancient coloured houses. Andersen used to live here for most of his life. Formerly considered a bad neighbourhood, today it is a fascinating tourist destination with shops, clubs, bars and restaurants (check the prices!). This is the perfect place for a walk along the canal and an appetizer waiting for the sunset. Here you can also start for an exciting tour of the city by water down the canal. In just a few minutes walking, moreover, you can reach the statue of the Little Mermaid.
2. The Tivoli Gardens, in the city centre, represent the second oldest amusement park in the world. Beloved by tourists and locals, this magical place offers rides, gardens, restaurants, a concert hall and outdoor shows. In the evening, with their light show, they are charged with a romantic atmosphere. You can still see and experience the impressive wooden roller coaster.
The Princely Castles Of Copenhagen
In the historic centre you can experience the charm of real fairy-tale castles: Christiansborg Palace, now the seat of the parliament and the prime minister, the Amalienborg royal palace, the winter residence of the Danish royal family, partially open to the public, and finally the royal castle of Rosenborg.
3. The Rosenborg Castle was once the royal residence, and is now a museum open to the public. Here you will perceive another space-time dimension. The 24 rooms of the castle with their original furniture, fabrics and drapes, together with the remarkable art collections, will create an atmosphere of past times. After the visit you can have a picnic in the beautiful surrounding gardens, the Kongens Have, the oldest park in the city. You can rest in the shade of century-old trees, or take a relaxing stroll around.
The Museums Of Copenhagen To Be Visited
Among the most important museums you can choose to take a dip into the Danish history, from prehistory to the present time, at the National Museum (perfect for both children and adults). Otherwise, if you love art and sculpture you should not miss the Ny Carlsberg (yes, those of the beer!) Glyptotek, to be put in our top-five things to see.
4. Carlsberg Glyptotek is located in the city centre, close to Tivoli gardens. Beyond the lobby there is an incredible enclosed garden, dominated by a glass dome. Inside the museum you will find the section dedicated to the ancient Mediterranean civilization art, and that dedicated to the nineteenth and twentieth century French and Danish art.
There are here important works by the French Impressionists Gauguin and Rodin. Sundays you get in for free!
Best Things To Do In Copenhagen: Churches To Visit
One of the most famous church in Copenhagen is Marmorkirken, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. However, here we indicate:
5. the Church of Our Saviour. It is a charming Baroque church consecrated in 1696. If you have the opportunity to hear the echo of the massive organ, close your eyes and enjoy the moment. Its structure dates back to 1698 and some pipes are still original! The famous serpentine spire, with its 400 steps and 90 metres above street level, will offer you a breath-taking panoramic view of Copenhagen.
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| Photo Credits: Stig Nygaard – Flickr |
Other Records of Copenhagen
Did you know that the famous Round Tower is the oldest functioning observatory in the world (1642)? And that the zoo, active since 1859, is the oldest in Europe?
Copenhagen, a city of records, fairy tales, castles, gardens, princes and kings will surely delight you!
