Copenhagen is clean, safe, and relatively easy to get to know. All of the locals speak superb English and the town seems small and easy to get around.
Many people don’t know the first thing on their agenda when they book a trip to Copenhagen, since it doesn’t have near the popularity as many other European cities. Looking for quintessential things to do in Copenhagen? Let us help you out!
-Be Amused by TIVOLI GARDENS–
Tivoli Gardens is the second oldest amusement park in the world and is located in the middle of Copenhagen, where it’s lights can be spotted from many places throughout the city. When I was planning my first visit to Copenhagen, I thought the idea of going to an amusement park seemed lame, I really wanted to dip into the culture of Denmark. However, Tivoli is part of the culture. It’s not just a theme park, but more of a beautiful illuminated garden that is equally as popular for drinking, dining and people-watching.
TIP: You may want to think twice before drinking a few beers and going for a ride on the Himmelskibet.
-Grab some Smørrebrød–
Smorrebrod is one of Copenhagens famous cuisines and consists of an open faced sandwich with a variety of toppings (including cold cuts, pieces of meat or fish, cheese or spreads) on top of buttered rye bread. You can find Smorrebrod at any restaurant that offers Danish cuisine.
-Reluctantly See the MERMAID-
The mermaid statue is one of those sights that you know you won’t be impressed with, but you also know you need a picture of (since it happens to be one of the most photographed spots in Copenhagen).
-Relax at NYHAVN-
Speaking of the most photographed spots in Copenhagen, Nyhavn would be number one. Nyhavn is the waterfront canal lined with brightly colored townhouses, bars and restaurants. The canal hosts many historical ships which serve as ample scenery for a drink or two along the waterfront. Afterwards, you can sign up for a canal tour.
-Stop in Lagkagehuset for a PASTRY and an iced coffee-
Pastries and small cakes are very popular in Copenhagen (and you’ll know why once you try a few). There are a lot of great bakeries in Copenhagen, but I still can’t get over Lagkagehuset. There are three different Lagkagehuset restuarants in Copenhagen, and they have the best iced coffee I’ve ever had in my life.. and a great selection of pastries.
-Stroll down Stroget-
Stroget is one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe and is located at the centre of the old city of Copenhagen. it has long been one of the most high profile streets in the city. In addition to shopping, you can also find restaurants, bars and occasional musical shows by talented street performers.
-See Something Different at CHRISTIANIA-
Christiania is a commune-like neighborhood in Copenhagen, famous for it’s cannabis trade. The area has a unique status in that the people of Christiania have developed their own set of rules, independent of the Danish government. Christiania is a much different experience than the rest of Copenhagen, loved by artists, musicians, hippies and youth that come by for a beer, a smoke or for inspiration. You’ll find a large area with cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, art galleries.
-Grab a FRANSK DOG–
A fransk dog comprised of a hollowed out baguette filled with a special tangy mayo and a hotdog stuffed inside. Hotdogs and hotdog stands are popular almost everywhere in Copenhagen and can be ordered with plenty of interesting toppings. A ristet hotdog comes inside a bun and is topped with pickled cucumber, crispy onions, mustard, ketchup, and remoulade ( a sweet mayo pickle and herb sauce).
-Watch the changing of the guard at AMALIENBORG PALACE-
Amalienborg Palace is the Danish monarch’s winter residence on the waterfront in Copenhagen (walking distance from Nyhavn). It consists of four identical palaces surrounding a open plaza. The guard march from Rosenborg Castle at 11.30 am daily through the streets of Copenhagen, and execute the changing of the guard in front of Amalienborg at noon.
Love that list! I’m going to Copenhagen in a month and I’ll def check those things out!
Thanks Maria! Let me know if you have any questions, I visited back in September but it’s still fresh on my mind. Do you know where your staying yet?