Highlights of Copenhagen

Attractions:

Not to be missed on any visit to Copenhagen is Nyhavn (new harbour), the colourful 17th century harbour that features on postcards and in every guidebook. Lined with cafes, bar and restaurants this is the hub of tourist activity. This is a favourite place for Copenhageners too, and on a summer’s day you will see locals relaxing with friends as they dangle their legs from the canal-side.

We would recommend visiting the much talked about Little Mermaid. Donated to the city by the Danish brewer of Carlsberg, Carl Jacobsen the small statue tells the story written by Hans Christian Andersen. It is probably the most photographed site in Copenhagen and attracts over 1 million visitors a year.

The National Gallery of Denmark holds a collection of more than 700 years of art including sculptures, drawings, graphics, photos and videos. Entrance to the gallery is free of charge with a small price payable for temporary exhibitions.

Another site of interest is the Amalienborg Palace. Located in the centre of the city overlooking the Marble Church and the waterfront, the palace is home to the Danish royal family and consists of four detached residences guarded throughout the day by the Royal Life Guards (a changing of the guard display takes place at Midday). On the 16th April the Queen celebrates her birthday and, if in residence, she is known to make an appearance on her balcony to greet her people.

For architectural gems, look no further than the Black Diamond – an angular extension of the Royal Danish Library, the modern Opera House and the stock exchange, Borsen, with its spire of four entwined dragons. These building are located along the canals and best observed on a boat tour.

Parkland:

There are many parks within the inner city of Copenhagen including the popular Rosenburg Castle (home to the crown jewels) and King’s Gardens. These parks and gardens offer a welcome retreat from the bustle of the city and on a fine day provide the perfect spot for a lunchtime picnic. Copenhagen has also developed a selection of jogging routes for the active visitor. These routes take in many of the key sites in a 3, 5 or 10km route - sightseeing with a difference! Alternatively, why not explore the city by using one of the city bikes?

Gastronomic delights:

The Torvehallerne food market is a great spot for a lunch with over 60 stands selling high quality produce, everything from fish and meat; freshly baked bread and the sweetest cupcakes to treats from around the world.

Districts of Copenhagen:

The inner city of Copenhagen and its attractions are the primary draw for most first time visitors. Besides Indre By and Nansensgade, the location of our featured hotels, we would recommend exploring the Latin Quarter and Jaegersborggade at Nørrebro. Here, you will find atmospheric lanes, squares with impromptu street entertainment and an oasis of shops, cafés, churches and restaurants. The Assistens Cemetery in Nørrebro is also the final resting place of two of the city’s most famous sons, Søren Kierkegaard and Hans Christian Anderson. Christiania is the creative district of Copenhagen and a self declared free city. This is reflected in the many interesting art houses and workshops.

View:

Buit in 1642 as an astronomical observatory, the Round Tower offers a spectacular panorama over Copenhagen from its summit. On a clear day it is even possible to see all of the way to Sweden and the city of Malmö.