What is the best thing to do in Copenhagen?
Copenhagen is a beautiful city filled with fun things to do. With its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, art galleries, and historical sites, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in the Danish capital. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, dining, or nightlife experiences, there’s something for everyone in Copenhagen!
Explore Top Attractions
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without exploring the top attractions of the city. These must-see attractions are a great way to get started on your tour of Copenhagen.
- Nyhavn – The picturesque waterfront area in central Copenhagen is filled with colorful buildings and bustling boats. As you walk along Nyhavn’s cobblestone streets, you’ll come across numerous restaurants and shops.
- Little Mermaid – A bronze statue inspired by the story of The Little Mermaid, this attraction is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks.
- The Round Tower – Take in impressive views of the city and embark on an Astronomic Adventure as you climb the 225-step spiral walkway to the top of this 17th-century tower.
- Amalienborg Palace – Home to the Danish royal family, this magnificent palace sits in the centre of Copenhagen and is surrounded by impressive gardens.
- Tivoli Gardens – This beautifully landscaped theme park has plenty of rides, cafes and eateries, games, and live events.
- The National Museum – Home to Danish history and art collections, this museum is a must-visit for culture lovers.
Experience Local Culture
Experience local culture while in Copenhagen. Check out these cultural activities to make your stay even more memorable:
- Take a canal tour – Hop onboard a canal tour and let a guide show you around the canals as you admire landmarks such as the Christianshavn district, the Little Mermaid and more.
- Visit a museum – Learn about the art and history of Denmark with a visit to the National Museum or visit one of many other interesting museums including The David Collection, The Thorvaldsens Museum, or The Carlsberg Glyptotek.
- Enjoy local food & drink – Copenhagen has something for everyone when it comes to culinary delights. Whether it’s traditional Danish food such as smørrebrød and frikadeller or an innovative meal from one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, you’re sure to find something delicious.
- Go shopping – Shop “til you drop on Strøget – Europe’s longest pedestrian street – or explore one of many other shopping streets. Here you’ll find everything from international fashion brands to small independent stores.
- Attend a Christmas market – Take part in the hygge festivities and make sure to visit one of Copenhagen’s many Christmas markets. Here you’ll find fun activities, traditional food and drinks, handmade products, and Christmas decorations.
In my opinion, one of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to explore its stunning historic sites nestled amongst the modern architecture. From the stunning Royal Danish Palaces, to the Tivoli Gardens and the colorful Nyhaven, there is something for everyone in Copenhagen! It provides a wonderful mix of places to explore along with a taste of its culture that make it a great destination to visit.
Insider’s Guide to Copenhagen
Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. Founded in the 10th century, the city is rich in history, culture, and architecture. From the colorful houses of Nyhavn to the fairy-tale turrets of Tivoli Gardens, there are so many things to do and see in this charming Scandinavian city. Here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Copenhagen:
Exploring Local Attractions
1. The Little Mermaid: No trip to Copenhagen is complete without a visit to the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale, this bronze sculpture sits on a rock by the waterside and has become a symbol of Denmark.
2. Nyhavn: Stroll along the picturesque Nyhavn canal, which is lined with colorful townhouses and boats bobbing in the water. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat, with plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
3. Tivoli Gardens: This charming amusement park is the second-oldest in the world. Tivoli Gardens has something for everyone, from roller coasters to classical music concerts.
4. Christiansborg Palace: A visit to Copenhagen wouldn’t be complete without seeing Christiansborg Palace, which houses the Danish Parliament, Prime Minister’s Office, and Supreme Court.
Dining Spots
1. Fiskebar: This trendy seafood restaurant in the hip meatpacking district offers fresh, sustainable fish in a stylish industrial setting.
2. Noma: Ranked as the world’s best restaurant for several years running, Noma serves Nordic-inspired cuisine that’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.
3. Grød: This small cafe specializes in porridge, but it’s not your average breakfast food. Grød’s creative toppings like caramelized bacon and pickled rhubarb make it a must-visit spot for foodies.
Cultural Experiences
1. National Museum of Denmark: Learn about Denmark’s rich history and culture at the National Museum, which houses artifacts from the Viking age to the present day.
2. Designmuseum Danmark: Copenhagen is known for its innovative design, and this museum showcases some of the best Scandinavian design from the past and present.
3. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: Just a short train ride from Copenhagen, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit for art lovers. Set in a beautiful seaside location, the museum has an impressive collection of contemporary art.
Local History
1. Rosenborg Castle: Built in the early 17th century, Rosenborg Castle is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. The castle houses the Danish crown jewels and has stunning gardens to explore.
2. Round Tower: This striking tower, completed in 1642, has an unusual feature: instead of stairs, visitors ascend a sloping ramp to the top. The Round Tower has excellent views over the city and hosts art exhibitions and concerts.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
1. Assistens Cemetery: This beautiful cemetery is the final resting place of some of Denmark’s most famous figures, including Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard. It’s also a peaceful place to take a walk and enjoy nature.
2. Freetown Christiania: This controversial neighborhood in the heart of Copenhagen is a self-proclaimed autonomous community with its own set of laws and rules. It’s a fascinating place to visit for its alternative lifestyle and colorful street art.
Copenhagen is a vibrant city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful Scandinavian city.
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