Capital of the happiest people on earth, Copenhagen is a historically charming yet modernly chic city filled with various sites and experiences that make it a must-see destination. Should you find yourself in this Nordic haven, check out these five places to get the best of the City of Spires.
1. Food: Torvehallerne
Stop by the city’s most popular food market, made up of over 60 stands filled with plenty of options and a communal atmosphere. From spices to wine to fresh-cut meat, this place has it all. And it’s the perfect place for a made-to-order meal, whether it’s a traditional Danish smørrebrød or a modern paleo-friendly wrap.
Should you be in the mood for the best cup of coffee in your life, stop by the Coffee Collective and be spoiled. Coffee back home won’t quite taste the same anymore after a cup from this caffeine oasis.
2. Historical Building: Rundetaarn
Attached to the Trinitatis Church and an academic library, the Rundetaarn (Round Tower) is a 17th-century tower containing the world’s oldest functioning astronomical observatory. Today the top of the tower serves as the most popular venue to see Copenhagen’s skyline. And the journey to the top is just as unique as the view at the end of your trek. The tower contains a wide spiral ramp instead of stairs. This was originally designed for a horse and carriage to transport equipment up to the observatory. Czars on horseback and early 20th-century cars have ascended to the top, and bicycle races down the tower have been held since 1888.
3. Neighborhood: Nyhavn
Perhaps the most recognizable destination, Nyhavn is a quaint waterfront neighborhood with rows of Dutch-style houses on opposite sides of a canal that dead-ends here. Originally a commercial port for cargo and fishing ships, the area now serves the purpose of a town square with restaurants and pubs. Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish writer best known for The Little Mermaid, at one point lived in one of the picturesque homes. If you want to take a selfie at an iconic location, Nyhavn is the place to do it.
4. Museum: Danish Museum of Art & Design
Who would have ever thought that an exhibition on chairs could be interesting to see? Originally Denmark’s first public hospital, the building has since been converted into a museum featuring decorative art and designs from the Middle Ages to the present. Its most unique permanent exhibition is a hall of design chairs featuring the history of how Danish design came to be a worldwide brand. The museum also has a gift shop perfect for getting travel-size souvenirs of Danish art and craft to bring back home. And if you are 25 or younger, admission to the museum is free!
5. Activity: Tivoli Gardens
Ever wonder where Walt Disney found inspiration to build Disneyland? Take a walk through the world’s second-oldest amusement park and it’s not hard to see the similarities. A Moorish palace, a pirate ship, a Chinese-style pantomime theater, and various actual gardens throughout the park are some of the visual attractions that capture the childlike wonder and imagination. And of course, there’s a variety of rides, restaurants and shops. A day in Copenhagen would be incomplete without spending an evening here to see the gardens lit up, and of course—fireworks to light up the night sky.
Supercool Copenhagen will amaze you so pack your appetite for all things and get to know this amazing city.
