Attractions in Copenhagen are a mixture of living history and fun, exciting activity. Copenhagen is one large attraction in itself, as many of the cobblestone streets and rows of old Danish houses are much like they have been for centuries and occupy wonderful shops and carnival-style entertainment. The Little Mermaid statue in Langelinie harbour is the city's most sought after sight for visitors, despite its small size.
Myriad other attractions await in unique neighbourhoods, grand museums, and entertainment venues that can usually be easily reached on foot and are mostly in the old city centre of Copenhagen. A walk along Nyhavn Canal reveals the best of historic Copenhagen with old but wellpreserved architecture and wooden boats showcasing the city's maritime history. For lovers of history interested in delving deeper into Danish history, the National Museum at the Prince's Palace is a central Copenhagen attraction, as is The Copenhagen City Museum.
Copenhagen is also a city with a proud heritage of art and design, well showcased in numerous museums and galleries as well as the architecture. Of course, no visit to Copenhagen is complete without idling in the Tivoli Gardens or playing in its famous theme park. For a full and convenient trip, visitors should think about buying the Copenhagen Card, which gives them free entry to more than 70 museums and attractions, free rides on public transportation, and discounts in many restaurants and shops. The cards can be purchased at the airport or at many tourist offices around Denmark.
Odense
Located on the island of Funen, 60 miles (96km) west of Copenhagen, Odense is Denmark's third largest city and a vibrant centre of commerce and nightlife. In this busy harbour city, the quaint streets of the Old Town offer interesting shops, cafes and restaurants that buzz with activity.Odense has a long history going back thousands of years, and archaeological finds date back to the Viking era. The city is thought to be a centre of the Odin cult due to its name, which means Odin's Shrine.The real claim to fame of Odense, and the main attraction for thousands of tourists each year, is that the city was the birthplace of famed storyteller Hans Christian Andersen.
The residents of Odense are so proud of their native son that at times it seems hard to find a shop, restaurant or monument dedicated to anyone else. Visitors to Odense can visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, which is based in the house he was born in.There are many other things to see and do in Odense not related to The Little Mermaid or The Ugly Duckling, however. The town has several beautiful castles and cathedrals, and museums dedicated to Danish history and classical composer Carl Nielsen, who was also from Odense. The music and nightlife in the city is among the best in Denmark, with symphonies, theatre, live music and a non-stop parade of outdoor festivities in the idyllic summer months. There is always something happening, and visitors to the city will never be at a loss for things to do.
Tivoli Gardens
Copenhagen's world-renowned Tivoli Gardens are ever so much more than just a central city park. The relatively small area in the heart of the city is actually one of the world's most thrilling entertainment complexes, drawing about three million visitors during its five-month summer open season each year. Tivoli dates back to 1843 when Copenhagen was still a fortified city surrounded by tall ramparts and a deep moat. Today the Tivoli Lake is all that remains of the moat, which now reflects the incredible trademark fireworks displays that light the sky over the gardens twice a week. Tivoli is split in two, one section housing the beautiful miniature gardens where more than 100,000 flowers bloom, and the other the theme park with game arcades and thrill rides. Tivoli also boasts a concert hall and open-air stages where dozens of concerts, pantomimes and circus shows, many of them free, are offered during the season.
Copenhagen Historical Museums
The rich history of Denmark, from Viking days through to the World War II resistance movement, is encapsulated in fascinating collections of artefacts housed in a series of museums in and around Copenhagen.The Prince's Palace in the city centre houses the National Museum covering Danish history in general and a collection of international antiquities. The open air museum a few miles north of the city makes for a fascinating excursion with its 100 or so historic buildings, most relocated from elsewhere in the country, set out to illustrate what life was like in rural Denmark in days of yore. Visitors can get up to date on the history of the city itself at the Museum of Copenhagen. Visitors should note that the exhibitions at the Museum of Copenhagen are closed until Spring 2018 when the museum reopens in central Copenhagen.
Nyhavn Canal
The picturesque and historic Nyhavn Canal, dating from 1673 when it was built to connect the inner city to the sea, is today colloquially known as the 'longest bar in Scandinavia'. This is because the pretty, pastel-painted old townhouses that line the canal are fronted with numerous restaurants, pubs and cafes, full of action 24-hours a day. The canal itself is crammed with old wooden sailing ships, adding to the atmosphere.Tourists enjoy not only the hospitality establishments along the canal but can also visit the house at Number 20 Nyhavn, home of famous fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen, who wrote his first stories here between 1834 and 1838.
Andersen later occupied two other houses in Nyhavn which became an area strongly associated with him.Visitors can take one of the many boat trips on offer to explore the canal and familiarise themselves with the area. The Nyhavn Canal is a must-see for tourists visiting Denmark and it never fails to charm but it can get very crowded and visitors must stay vigilant with their belongings as it is a popular pickpocket haunt. The eateries can be pretty expensive but just strolling around this vibrant and visually exciting area will delight visitors, and there are plenty of great photo opportunities.
Rosenborg Castle
The attractive Dutch Renaissance-style Rosenborg Castle was designed by King Christian IV and served as his home until he died in 1648. Today the castle is an important cultural institution, acting as a public museum detailing the history of Denmark's royal family as well as acting as repository for the Crown Jewels and royal regalia, which are kept in the castle cellars and can be viewed by the public. You can walk through the magnificent rooms and view impressive jewellery, furniture, art and weaponry. The castle's treasures are arranged chronologically by era which allows some insight into the history of the monarchy. Although opulent, the castle also feels surprisingly personal and intimate for a royal residence which charms visitors. The magnificent castle gardens are a welcome retreat from the city hustle and bustle. The Rosenborg Castle will delight anybody interested in the royal family or the history of Denmark.
Bornholm
Sometimes referred to as the 'Pearl of the Baltic', Bornholm is a wildly popular holiday destination in Denmark for tourists from Sweden, Poland and Germany, though it is still largely overlooked by tourists from the US and UK.The island, located in the Baltic Sea, is geographically closer to Sweden and Poland than the Danish mainland, which gives it a uniquely international environment. Established as an important trading post in the Viking age, Bornholm passed in ownership from country to country for many centuries and was a heavily-contested strategic point in World War II for the Russians and Germans.
These days visitors to Bornholm come not to trade or occupy but to enjoy the island's sunny beaches and gorgeous natural environment. Activities like sailing, fishing, camping, hiking, bicycling and just lounging in the sun are popular ways to pass the time. The Almindingen forest is among the largest in Denmark, and Dueodde boasts some of the best sandy beaches in the Baltic.The numerous small towns on Bornholm hold their own attractions, including the beautiful sunrises and charming winding streets of Gudhjem, the jazz festival at Allinge, and the bustling markets and local beers of Svaneke. The biggest town on Bornholm is Rønne, which is where most ferries disembark, and features pretty 19-century architecture, and a collection of museums, shops and restaurants.
Freetown Christiania
Freetown Christiania is a partially self-governing neighbourhood in the borough of Christianshavn, Copenhagen, dominated largely by a freethinking 'hippy' culture. Local rules forbid stealing, violence, guns, knives, bulletproof vests and hard drugs. Aside from its cannabis smoking affinity, Christiana is also well known for its inhabitants' love of meditation and yoga and for the art work all over the area which makes it so colourful and creative. It is celebrated by many as a showcase of the progressive and liberated Danish lifestyle, although the area's popularity is not universal, and detractors see it as a kind of 'Losers' Paradise'.
.Visitors can enjoy the neighbourhood's peaceful green environment and its magical combination of village and metropolitan life by visiting the various stalls, cafes and art galleries and taking a stroll around the pretty lake area. It is also lovely to just wander around and take in the different homes in the area, many of which are really original and impressive. People tend to be very friendly and laid back, as you would expect, but be careful about taking photos of anything to do with the sale or consumption of cannabis because some of the residents get very nervous - there are signs up warning people not to take photos because despite the relaxed atmosphere marijuana is still illegal in Denmark.
The Little Mermaid Statue
The Little Mermaid, basking on a rock at the Langelinie Harbour, is one of Copenhagen's biggest tourist attractions.The sculpture was put up in 1913, and over a million people visit the mermaid every year. At only about four feet (1.25m) high, she is very small and she seems to be in her true element when the waves crash against her rock. The sculptor, Edvard Eriksen, modelled the mermaid's head after ballerina Ellen Price. The statue is beautifully executed and fits so well into its natural surroundings that it takes a moment to notice her sitting on her rock (provided she is not surrounded by tourists). Although there is not much to do except see her and take a picture, this alluring statue continues to charm visitors and replicas of the famous sculpture are popular souvenirs. Of course, Anderson's story of The Little Mermaid is beloved the world over which goes some way to explaining the popularity of this wistful art work.
Christiansborg Palace
When sightseeing in Denmark, the Christiansborg Palace is a gem for lovers of architecture and history, and a winter snowfall adds to its romantic fairytale appearance.This major attraction's appeal is further enhanced by the presence of ruins dating as far back as 1167 AD, when it existed as Absalon's Castle. The complex consists of several different buildings, centred around a Neo-Baroque core, and is home to important institutions: the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office and the Supreme Court. The royal family uses the palace church, the Royal Reception Rooms and the Riding Ground Complex. From the front steps of the main castle there are also some stunning churches within easy viewing distance.This attraction embodies the essence of Danish history, architecture and royalty. It is best to do a guided tour of Christiansborg Palace as although the state rooms and everything else are very impressive there is not much information available; a guide will enrich the visit by explaining the historical, cultural and political significance of what visitors are seeing. Tours are usually conducted twice a day and there is no extra charge.
Legoland Billund
Legoland Billund, the original Legoland Park, is a holiday must for children visiting Denmark. Opened in 1968, it plays host to numerous visitors from all over the world and is conveniently situated next to the original Lego factory. The features are divided into 'Worlds', including Denmark's iconic Miniland as well as Duplo Land, Imagination Zone, Legoredo Town, Adventure Land, Pirate Land, Lego City and the Knights' Kingdom. With a legendary selection of rides, shops and eateries, Legoland Billund has something to offer to everyone in the family, and is a must-do for families on holiday in Copenhagen. Some rides, like Pirate Water Falls, are closed when temperatures drop below a certain point. The admission costs vary because there are so many different ticket options including season passes, family tickets, multiple pre-booked online ticket options, as well as ordinary gate prices. Check the website for these details to work out the best deal for your group as the costs given below are just a guideline.
Bakken Amusement Park
The oldest amusement park in the world and one of Denmark's favourites, Bakken Amusement Park has delighted countless visitors since it first opened in 1583. The park features 34 thrilling rides and roller coasters, a love tunnel, merry-go-round and even dancing. Despite its age the park is modern and safe and the rides and facilities are impressive. Bakken has open-air eateries where exhausted families can relax and refuel; there are about 40 restaurants and bars so there should be something for everyone. Bakken also features a lot of games and activities and there are gambling facilities. Bakken Amusement Park has a great natural setting: just outside the amusement park gates is the beautiful woodland area of Dyrehaven which offsets the artificial glories of the park with natural amusements; the woods are a lovely place to stroll and they are home to thousands of freeranging deer.
Denmark Aquarium
Boasting more than 300 species of marine life from across the globe, the Denmark Aquarium features more than 70 aquariums with the largest containing 85,000 litres of water. There is also a biological museum with interactive themed exhibits for children and a touch pool for the little ones to enjoy. Other facilities include a café where visitors can take a break and get meals, treats or hot drinks, with lovely views. A good time to visit the aquarium is during feeding times: check the official website listed below to find the various times. The Denmark Aquarium is not large compared to other huge aquariums in Europe but it is compact, wellmaintained and a wonderful attraction for the whole family; kids lap up a few hours spent in this magical underwater world, which makes a good break from traditional sightseeing in Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Zoo
Founded in 1859, the Copenhagen Zoo is one of the oldest in Europe and features an amazing selection of animals from all over the world. Some of the zoo's most popular features include the Elephant House, designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, the Tasmanian Devils, very rarely found in any zoo outside of Australia, the polar bear enclosure, the lion den and countless more. Notable animals in the 27 acre (11 hectare) park include tigers, red pandas, hippos, yaks and camels. The animals seem genuinely well cared for and the habitat design is impressive. The staff are famous for their care for their animals and are usually willing to chat to visitors about them. Visitors are invited to view feeding and training sessions; check the website for details on when these events occur. Copenhagen Zoo is a joy for the whole family and it is worth putting aside at least half a day to enjoy its numerous attractions.
Experimentarium
Featuring almost 300 interactive exhibitions for children of all ages to enjoy, the Experimentarium is a hands-on science museum that aims to encourage children to take an interest in science while learning and enjoying themselves at the same time. There are numerous exhibits, including ones on energy, the human body, and mathematics, as well as other interactive areas. With permanent and temporary exhibitions, visitors can be sure that there is always something fun and exciting for children to enjoy. The bubble section tends to be a great favourite with kids! The Experimentarium has great staff on hand to help entertain and educate the children (and the adults) and the museum also features a cafe and restaurant, conference and workshop facilities, and a gift shop with a range of exciting scientific toys and games. This is a great activity for the whole family and is the perfect kid-orientated break from traditional sightseeing.
Esbjerg
A great place for a city break, Denmark's fifth largest and youngest city, Esbjerg, is billed as 'the gateway to Jutland', but those who choose not to move beyond the gateway will have plenty to see and do in this neat, clean port city.Esbjerg grew up around its harbour, which was established by the state in 1868 to serve as a strategic North Sea port. Today it is the centre of Denmark's offshore oil industry, but with its lovely beaches, attractive shops, thriving café society and jolly nightlife it has also become a popular holiday town.Not surprisingly, most of Esbjerg's tourist attractions are nautical by nature, including a 'sealarium' at the Fisheries and Maritime Museum.
A boat trip round the harbour is a must, and for the more active the city offers a wonderful swimming stadium, angling, golf and windsurfing. The best thing about Esbjerg, though, is its proximity to the scenic Jutland Peninsula coastline, with wide windswept sand dunes, and popular family attractions like Legoland at Billund (about an hour's drive away) and the picturesque medieval town of Ribe. Denmark's favourite offshore vacation islands of Romo and Fano are within easy reach by ferry.As a major educational centre (with two universities and numerous other tertiary learning institutions) Esbjerg also has a full cultural calendar, and art is everywhere, from major galleries to small, private studios. Being a city with a large youthful population, clubs and bars pulse with live music and dancing until dawn.
Climate
Copenhagen's continental climate is mild through all four seasons. Summers (June to August) bring temperatures averaging around 68°F (20°C), while in mid-winter (December to February) temperatures hover just above or below freezing. The hottest month is July and the coldest month is February. Rainfall is moderate too, but showers are possible in any season. Winter days get far fewer daylight hours than summer days, which are long. Early summer is the best time to visit Denmark; the month of June is particularly lovely because the days are longest and the weather is at its most pleasant.
Kids Attractions Overview
Visitors travelling with children in Copenhagen will find an abundance of fantastic and exciting attractions geared towards kids, making this a wonderful city for the whole family to enjoy. Copenhagen is a safe and friendly city with world-class amenities and Denmark is known for its family values.A trip to Copenhagen must include a visit to Tivoli Gardens, which boasts beautiful miniature gardens, a theme park with arcade games and rides, and even open-air stages where plays and concerts take place. Another great attraction on warm sunny days is the Bakken Amusement Park, the world's oldest amusement park. The Nature Playground, located at Valbyparken, is also a must for a day out in the sunshine and fresh air, and a good place for a picnic. There are numerous parks and green areas in Copenhagen where families can play and relax.On colder days, when outdoor activities with kids are not an option, head off to the Denmark Aquarium or the wonderful Copenhagen Zoo, or, for something a little more frightening, the Mystic Exploratorie is a fantastic place for kids to be thrilled and perplexed, as is the Experimentarium. For toddlers, the Kompan indoor playground is a wonderland of slides, balls and bright colours to be explored. Children will also enjoy some of the more traditional sightseeing attractions, like the palaces and castles, which delight young imaginations.