Copenhagen: A City Guide for First-Time Tourists

Copenhagen is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city in the heart of Europe. Located in the northern part of Denmark, Copenhagen is the capital city of the country and its largest city with a population of over 600,000 people. The city is a major hub for business, culture, and tourism, and it has been an important city since its founding in the 10th century. Copenhagen is home to many iconic attractions and landmarks, such as the Little Mermaid Statue, Nyhavn canal, and Tivoli Gardens. The city is known for its friendly locals, great restaurants, and lively nightlife, and it is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the culture and history of Denmark.

History of Copenhagen

Copenhagen was first established by the Viking King Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century. The city quickly grew into an important hub for trade, and it became an important center for religion during the Middle Ages. In 1448, Copenhagen became the capital of Denmark and it remained the capital for centuries. During the 19th century, Copenhagen underwent a period of rapid growth and urbanization. Many of the city’s most iconic landmarks were built during this time, such as the iconic Little Mermaid Statue and Nyhavn canal.

Today, Copenhagen is a modern and vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Europe, as well as many cultural attractions. The city is also a major hub for business and finance, making it a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the hustle and bustle of a modern European city.

Things to Do in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is home to many interesting attractions for tourists to explore. From iconic landmarks to lively nightlife, there is something for everyone in this exciting city. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Copenhagen:

The Little Mermaid Statue

The Little Mermaid is perhaps the most iconic attraction in Copenhagen. The statue was built in 1913 and it has since become an important symbol of the city. The statue is located on a rock at the entrance to the harbor and it depicts a mermaid sitting atop a rock looking out over the ocean. The statue has become an important symbol of Copenhagen’s maritime history and its connection to the sea.

Nyhavn Canal

Nyhavn is a picturesque canal located in the heart of Copenhagen. It is lined with colorful buildings dating back to the 17th century and it is a popular spot for tourists to take photos. The canal is also home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s most beloved attractions. This historic amusement park was opened in 1843 and it has since become one of the city’s most popular attractions. The park features gardens, rides, shows, restaurants, and more and it is a great spot for families to visit during their stay in Copenhagen.

Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of the Danish royal family and it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Copenhagen. The palace complex consists of four beautiful rococo-style buildings and it is surrounded by a large public square. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and watch the changing of the guards ceremony which takes place daily at noon.

Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace is another famous landmark located in Copenhagen. Built in 1907, this magnificent palace is home to the Danish Parliament and Supreme Court. It is also home to many art galleries and museums, making it an interesting spot for visitors to explore.

Stroget Street

Stroget Street is one of Copenhagen’s oldest shopping streets, filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and more. It is the longest pedestrian street in Europe, stretching from City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv Square. Here visitors will find everything from designer stores to vintage shops, making it an ideal spot for shopping.

Popular Tours in Copenhagen

Copenhagen offers many unique tours that allow visitors to experience more of what the city has to offer. Here are two popular tours that are perfect for first-time visitors:

Copenhagen City Sightseeing Bus Tour

The Copenhagen City Sightseeing Bus Tour offers visitors the chance to explore the city from the comfort of an open-top double-decker bus. The tour lasts two hours and it takes visitors past all of the major sights of Copenhagen, including Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Canal, and much more. At each stop along the way, passengers can get off the bus and explore further on foot before getting back on board for the rest of the tour. This tour is an excellent way for visitors to get an overview of what Copenhagen has to offer. Book a Copenhagen City Sightseeing Bus Tour here.

Canal Cruise Tour

The Canal Cruise Tour offers visitors a unique way to explore Copenhagen’s historic canals. This tour takes passengers on an hour-long journey through some of the city’s most picturesque canals, including Nyhavn Canal and Christiansborg Palace Canal. Along the way visitors will experience stunning views of some of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks, such as Amalienborg Palace and Christiansborg Palace. The tour also includes informative commentary about each of these landmarks from experienced tour guides. Book a Canal Cruise Tour here.

Conclusion

Copenhagen is one of Europe’s most exciting cities, filled with iconic attractions, lively nightlife, and friendly locals. From Tivoli Gardens to Amalienborg Palace and Nyhavn canal, there are plenty of interesting things for visitors to explore in this vibrant city. With its many unique tours, such as the City Sightseeing Bus Tour or Canal Cruise Tour, visitors can experience even more of what Copenhagen has to offer during their stay. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an exciting adventure, there’s something for everyone in Copenhagen!