A Guide to Discovering the Best of Copenhagen, Denmark

Welcome to Copenhagen—Denmark’s charming capital, a city rich in history, culture and a laid-back atmosphere that perfectly embodies the Danish concept of “hygge.” Whether you're here to explore cobbled streets, admire iconic landmarks, or simply soak in the cozy vibe, Copenhagen is sure to delight you. Let’s embark on a journey through this beautiful Nordic city, discovering its historical roots, must-see sites, and some local customs that will help you experience Copenhagen like a Dane!

A glimpse into Copenhagen’s history

Founded in the early 12th century as a humble fishing village, Copenhagen’s name comes from the Danish words “købmændenes havn”, meaning "merchants' harbor." Over the centuries, it blossomed into a bustling trading hub, thanks to its strategic location on the Øresund Strait. By the 15th century, it became the capital of Denmark under King Christian I.

Copenhagen’s rich past is still visible today, from its medieval castles and Renaissance-era buildings to its quaint, narrow streets. The city has weathered fires, invasions and battles, including the infamous British bombardment in 1807, yet it remains resilient and ever evolving. The combination of historic charm and modern innovation makes Copenhagen a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new.

Must-Sees in Copenhagen

1. Nyhavn (New Harbor)

Nyhavn is the perfect place to start your Copenhagen adventure. This picturesque harbor, lined with colorful 17th-century houses, was once a bustling port filled with sailors and traders. Today, it’s a lively area filled with cozy cafes and restaurants. And did you know that Hans Christian Andersen lived here in several houses, penning some of the famous fairytales, like “The Little Mermaid”? The harbor itself dates to 1670 when King Charles V commissioned its construction to allow ships easy access to the city center. Today, it’s a beloved spot for locals to enjoy a cold Danish beer on sunny days.

2. The Little Mermaid Statue

As mentioned above: The Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Andersen’s classic fairytale, is well-known in Copenhagen. In fact, it became a symbol of the city. Although petite, this bronze sculpture has been perched on her rock since 1913 and remains one of the city’s most visited sites. Danish people take pride in their literary heritage and the statue is more than just a tourist attraction. It represents the city’s deep connection to Andersen's tales and the enduring power of storytelling.

3. Tivoli Gardens

One of the oldest amusement parks in the world, Tivoli Gardens opened its doors in 1843 and remains a magical place filled with vintage rides, beautiful gardens, and dazzling light displays. It’s a must-visit, especially in the evening when it transforms into a fairy-tale wonderland. It becomes even more enchanting when the Tivoli Gardens transform into a beautiful and charming Christmas market. Tivoli was built by Georg Carstensen, who believed: “When the people are amused, they do not think about politics.” It became an instant hit and continues to attract millions each year.

4. Christiansborg Palace

This grand palace has served as a royal residence, the seat of the Danish Parliament and the Supreme Court. Christiansborg Palace reflects centuries of Danish history and political power. Don't miss the panoramic view from the palace tower as well! The Danes have a deep respect for their monarchy. The palace’s central location symbolizes the unity of the state, the church and the people. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard outside the palace daily at noon.

5. Rosenborg Castle & The King’s Garden

Nestled within the lush King’s Garden, Rosenborg Castle is a stunning Renaissance palace that houses Denmark’s crown jewels. Strolling through the gardens, which are especially beautiful in spring and summer, is a favorite pastime for locals.

Must-Dos in Copenhagen

Now we talked about the must-sees, it’s time to talk about the must-dos as well. Let us tell you where you can find unique and authentic experiences in Copenhagen. Ready? Let’s go!

1. Explore freetown Christiania

For a unique cultural experience, head to Christiania, an alternative neighborhood founded in the 1970s by a group of free-spirited individuals. It’s known for its colorful street art, eclectic markets and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. Christiania operates under its own set of rules, separate from Danish law. While cannabis is openly sold here, photography is discouraged in certain areas—it’s best to be respectful of the locals' way of life.

2. Cycle like a local

You thought The Netherlands is known for cycling as a way of transport? Copenhagen is one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities, with more bikes than cars on its streets. Cycling is not just a mode of transportation here but a way of life. The city has over 390 km (242 miles) of dedicated bike lanes (that’s a lot, right?). Note: Danes are punctual and respectful of traffic rules, especially on their bikes. If you’re new to cycling, stay to the right, use hand signals and always yield to pedestrians.

3. Stroll down Strøget

As one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe, Strøget is perfect for an afternoon of window shopping and people-watching. It’s also a great place to experience the city’s vibrant street performances. Also, did you know that Copenhageners value their personal space? If you find yourself in a crowded area, keep a respectful distance. The city’s relaxed yet respectful vibe extends to the way locals interact with each other.

4. Try a traditional Danish lunch

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without indulging in smørrebrød, the classic open-faced sandwich topped with everything from pickled herring to roast beef. For dessert, try a flaky kanelsnegle (cinnamon roll) at a local bakery. When dining out, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, rounding up a bit is always a kind gesture.

5. Harbor bathing

Copenhagen’s commitment to sustainability has resulted in clean, swimmable harbors right in the city center. During summer, locals flock to harbor baths like Islands Brygge to take a refreshing dip. A little fun fact: the city’s harbor is so clean that you can safely swim in it—a testament to Copenhagen’s green initiatives and eco-friendly mindset.

Did you know that…

… Copenhagen is known as the “City of Spires” for its numerous church towers that dominate the skyline. The most famous is the Church of Our Saviour, with a spiral staircase that offers panoramic views of the city.

… Nearly 50% of Copenhageners commute to work or school by bike every day. The city’s cycling infrastructure is so advanced that bikes even have their own traffic lights!

… Copenhagen aims to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025. It’s a pioneer in sustainable urban design, with green roofs, eco-friendly public transport and even energy-generating waste-to-power plants.

… The Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is all about embracing coziness and contentment. Whether it’s lighting candles during the long winter nights or enjoying a cup of hot chocolate with friends, hygge is a cornerstone of Danish culture.

… Unlike many European capitals, Copenhagen has maintained a low skyline, preserving its historical charm. The city’s tallest structure is still the Church of Our Saviour’s tower, which dates to the 18th century.

Seasonal Highlights & Tips

• Summer: June to August is perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, picnicking and harbor swimming.

• Autumn: September to November is a cozy season filled with the warm colors of falling leaves. Enjoy walks in the King’s Garden and warm up with a glass of gløgg (mulled wine).

• Winter: December is magical with the Christmas markets and Tivoli Gardens dressed in festive lights. It’s the season to embrace hygge!

• Spring: March to May brings blossoming flowers and warmer weather. It’s an ideal time to explore Copenhagen’s parks and gardens.

Some Danish words

When traveling to Denmark, learning a few basic Danish words can truly enhance your experience. While most Danes speak excellent English, making the effort to greet someone with a friendly "hej" (hello) or thank them with "tak" shows respect for their culture. It’s a simple gesture that can open doors, create smiles, and help you connect more genuinely with locals. Plus, understanding phrases like "hygge" (a sense of cozy contentment) adds a deeper appreciation of the Danish way of life. Even a little effort goes a long way in making your visit more enjoyable and immersive!

In my opinion, the following words are good to learn when you’re traveling to any country:

• Godmorgen (good morning)

• God aften (good evening)

• Hej (hello)

• Behage (please)

• Mange tak (thank you very much)

• Skål (cheers)

Final Thoughts

Copenhagen is a city that invites you to slow down, explore and savor the small moments. Whether you’re cycling through its charming streets, indulging in traditional Danish treats or soaking up the cozy atmosphere in a candle-lit cafe, you’ll find that this city has a way of making you feel at home.

So, grab your bike, bundle up in a warm scarf and get ready to fall in love with Copenhagen—a city where history, culture and modern living come together in the most delightful ways.

Vi ses snart, København! (See you soon, Copenhagen!)