Visiting Copenhagen: A Visitor’s Guide

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. From its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and picturesque canals, to its vibrant culture and entertainment options, Copenhagen has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore all the highlights of Copenhagen, from its history and culture to its top attractions and activities. We’ll also discuss two popular tours in the city, and provide links to book them.

A Brief History of Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a long and fascinating history. Founded in the 10th century, it was originally just a small fishing village. By the 14th century, it had grown into an important trading city with a busy port. Over the centuries, Copenhagen became a center of power and wealth due to its strategic location on the Baltic Sea. It also became a hub for science and innovation, particularly during the Renaissance period.

Today, Copenhagen is a modern, vibrant city with a population of over 1.2 million people. It is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, with tourists flocking to its many attractions and events. Despite its bustling city life, Copenhagen also has a strong sense of community and culture, with a variety of traditional festivals taking place throughout the year.

Sights and Attractions

Copenhagen is home to a wealth of sights and attractions. Here are some of the top must-sees:

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is a popular amusement park and gardens located in central Copenhagen. It was opened in 1843 and is one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe. Visitors can enjoy a variety of rides and attractions such as roller coasters, carousels, water rides, and more. The gardens are also a great spot to take a stroll and admire the colorful gardens and spectacular views of the city skyline.

Nyhavn

Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic spots. This colorful canal is lined with colorful buildings and boats, making for a picturesque spot for photos. It is also a great spot for an evening stroll or dinner at one of the many restaurants along the canal.

The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid is one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable landmarks. The statue was created by sculptor Edvard Eriksen in 1913 and is based on the fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen. The Little Mermaid is located at Langelinie Pier near the harbor, making it easy to get to by bus or boat.

Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is a beautiful 17th century castle located in the heart of Copenhagen. Inside, you’ll find an array of royal artifacts, including furniture and décor from when it was home to King Christian IV. Rosenborg Castle is also home to the crown jewels of Denmark, which are displayed in an underground chamber known as the Treasury.

Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are located just outside the city center and are home to over 13,000 species of plants from around the world. The gardens are especially beautiful in springtime when the flowers are in full bloom. There are also a variety of activities for visitors such as guided tours, a butterfly house, and a tropical greenhouse.

Popular Activities

Copenhagen is a great destination for those who love to explore and experience new things. Here are some popular activities that you can enjoy while visiting Copenhagen:

Biking

Biking is a popular activity in Copenhagen, with miles of bike lanes throughout the city making it easy to explore on two wheels. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops or join a guided bicycle tour to visit some of the city’s top sights.

Food Tours

Copenhagen has some delicious food to offer, from traditional Danish dishes such as smørrebrød to gourmet restaurants in the city center. A great way to sample some of Copenhagen’s best food is to join a food tour. These tours usually include stops at some of the best restaurants in the city, as well as local food markets and street food stalls.

Museums

Copenhagen is home to many world-class museums including the National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Danish art from prehistory to present day; The Round Tower, which offers stunning views from the top; and The David Collection, which focuses on Islamic art from around the world. Other notable museums include The National Gallery of Denmark, The Viking Ship Museum, and The National Aquarium Denmark.

Tours

Copenhagen has a variety of tours available for visitors to enjoy. Here are two popular tours that we recommend:

Copenhagen Canal Tour

The Copenhagen Canal Tour offers visitors a unique way to explore the city from the water. The tour lasts approximately one hour and takes you through some of Copenhagen’s most scenic canals. Along the way, you’ll see some of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks including the Little Mermaid statue, Rosenborg Castle, Nyhavn, and more. Book a Copenhagen Canal Tour here.

Nyhavn Food Tour

The Nyhavn Food Tour is a great way to experience some of Copenhagen’s best food while exploring its famous canal district. The tour lasts two hours and takes you on an exploration of some of Nyhavn’s best restaurants and food markets. Sample some delicious Danish dishes such as smørrebrød, hot dogs, pastries, beer, and much more! Book a Nyhavn Food Tour here.

Conclusion

Copenhagen is an amazing city full of history, culture, and attractions. From its vibrant nightlife to its picturesque canals and gardens, there’s something for everyone in Copenhagen. Whether you’re visiting for just a few days or planning an extended stay, you won’t be disappointed by all that this city has to offer!