Copenhagen Hotels

That said, Copenhagen is often ranked one of the happiest and least corrupt cities in the world. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that it’s one of the safest European cities, or that the water in Copenhagen Harbour is so clean you can swim in it (literally, there are dedicated swimming spots called Harbour Baths!), or perhaps it’s because Michelin-star restaurants such as Noma (voted the best in the world for the past two years running) are becoming more commonplace in Copenhagen than a McDonald’s in middle America.

Orgasmic food aside, Copenhagen has a wealth of architectural and cultural gems on offer, including Amalienborg Palace, the winter home of the Danish Royal Family. The Danish Royals are almost unreservedly loved by the Danes, and are famously quite down to earth. Prince Frederik married an Australian real estate agent he met in a bar in Sydney, for example, and flew her favourite band (Aussie rockers Powderfinger) to Copenhagen to play at their wedding. Take that, Kate and Wills!

Whether you’re people-watching in the pedestrianised Strøget in the centre of Copenhagen, gasping in awe at the beauty of Rosenborg Castle or joyfully letting loose at the historic Tivoli Gardens Theme Park, you’ll be delighted and inspired by the cheerful, intelligent and courteous locals as they watch you discover something they’ve known for centuries – that Copenhagen is pretty close to perfection.

COPENHAGEN’S TOP 10

COPENHAGEN LOCAL

Indre By

Translating to ‘the inner city’, Indre By is the historical centre of Copenhagen. In this district you’ll find the Royal residence Amalienborg as well as Charlottenborg Palace, where the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts is now stationed.

Indre By is brimming with restaurants. Make a beeline to The Jewish Museum or the Statens Museum for Kunst (where you’ll find works by Picasso, Rembrandt, and other masters). For more artsy adventures, visit Det Kongelige Teater (The Royal Theatre) where you can enjoy ballet and theatre.

Also in this district is Stroget, the best shopping in Copenhagen and the biggest outdoor pedestrian shopping area in the world. You’re welcome, ladies. Gentlemen, our apologies…

Christianshavn

Christianshavn is an artificial island, known for its ‘freetown’, Christiana. The car-free, 24-hour town is semi-legal, which means it is run autonomously by its residents as opposed to the government. Operating as a sort of commune there are ongoing discussions about its future as a self-run town, but at the moment it’s a fine example of that beautiful Scandinavian liberalism.

You’ll also find Christianshavns Bådudlejning of Café (Christianshavn boat rental and cafe) where you can down a coffee on the floating dock or rent a boat to sail the canals of Christianshavn.

Vasterbro

Denmark was the first country to legalise pornography in 1967 (love those Scandos), and in Vasterbro you’ll still find clusters of sex shops. Istedgade used to be the red-light district, and while it still pays the odd homage to the old days in the form of an adult toy store, it’s better known these days for its fashion boutiques. You’ll find innovative local brands and independent labels here.

Besides the shopping, the main attraction is the Old Carlsberg Brewery (the functioning brewery has since moved). Here you can feast your eyes on the largest collection of bottled beers in the world, and the entry fee will also get you two beers to keep you occupied on the tour.

COPENHAGEN EATS

The Danes have a long history of eating at home, and it’s only in recent decades that Copenhagen has really come into its own on the culinary scene. That said, when the people of Copenhagen decided to start dining out, they certainly did it in style – the city currently has 13 Michelin-star restaurants. Eat now, and regret the calories later.

COPENHAGEN EVENTS

In February, Copenhagen transforms into fashion central for two weeks. Copenhagen Fashion Week attracts more than 1000 exhibitors – and quite a few exhibitionists – every year.

In mid-April, a new festival, CPH:PIX (Copenhagen International Film Festival) presents 170 film screenings.

CPH Distortion is the craziest party you’ll find. Spanning five days, over 60 parties are held in the city’s districts, streets and clubs.

In July, the sounds of smooth jazz echo around Copenhagen with the Copenhagen Jazz Festival.

In August, Copenhagen hosts the largest clubbing event in Scandinavia, RAW.

Strom is another August music event. A yearly electronic music festival, the festivities can be found at squares and concert halls, but also unusual locations.

Copenhagen Pride takes place every August. There are also numerous events and parties leading up to the vibrant parade.

Night of Culture (Kulturnatten) in mid-October celebrates Copenhagen’s culture. A badge for 70 Kr will give you access to major museums, exhibitions, churches, libraries and other cultural attractions.

For 10 days in October, the MIX Copenhagen – LGBT Film Festival puts on over 130 screenings of the world’s leading gay or queer films in a quest to find the best.

WHEN TO GO

Summer is the best time to visit Copenhagen, not only for its weather, but also for its many events.

· Spring temperatures can unfortunately drop below zero occasionally, but usually it’s a lot milder during the blooming season!

· Copenhagen’s summer is a pleasant 11-22°C (52-72°F) and the days are very long.

· Copenhageners like to stay indoors during autumn and winter. The days are cold, short and dark. There is, however, the (slim) chance of a White Christmas, so it could be worth the trip.

GETTING AROUND

Once in Copenhagen you can take your pick from a very comprehensive public transport system. Means of transport include the S-Tog (S-train service), metro, bus, boat (canal tours!), bicycles, and taxis. Beware, though, taxis, like most things in Copenhagen, are expensive.

WHAT TO MISS

· Avoid Tivoli if you’re on a time-budget. Since it’s such a huge tourist attraction, it also gets really cramped.

· Don’t step into the bike lane! Unless you’re on a bike, that is.

· The canal tours are a lovely way to explore the city, but some companies charge about double what the others do, so shop around before booking

General Information

Attractions

Events

Climate