5 reasons to visit Copenhagen
13 Jul 2018
The epitome of Scandi-cool, Copenhagen is also exceptionally retiree-friendly, with culinary delights, Danish design and cultural riches to entertain.
1. Enjoy the finer things in life
The Danish have a real appreciation for a concept known as ‘hygge’, which could be loosely translated to mean ‘cosy’ and ‘good vibes’. It’s a sensation and a feeling; everything required to create a warm atmosphere.
This appreciation for ‘hygge’ can be seen all over in Copenhagen, from its well-designed bistros, perfect for a meal with a loved one or a friend, to the smoky smell of roasted nuts and popcorn wafting through the air at the Tivoli Gardens on a chilly autumn night. The city is the ideal place to enjoy all the good things in life.
2. It’s easy to walk around
Put on your most comfortable pair of shoes and tie up your shoelaces – not only is Copenhagen small enough to check out by foot, walking is also the best way to ensure that you don’t miss a thing. It’s a city to stroll through and soak up.
It’s also filled with fascinating neighbourhoods to discover. There’s Nyhavn and the Royal Quarter, famous for its maritime history and the Little Mermaid statue; there’s the hippy commune at Christianshvn; then there’s Vesterbro, the city’s former red light district which is now filled with cool vintage stores, galleries and eateries and Frederiksberg, known as the green village of the city.
3. It’s like a history-filled fairytale town
Everywhere you turn in Copenhagen, there’s a fascinating piece of history to be revealed or a charming corner to be discovered, no matter what season you visit.
In summer, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of sparkling sunshine dancing across the water at Nyhavn Harbour, which was built during the 17th century to link the harbour to the city. Alongside the canal, you’ll notice crowds of tourists trying to take selfies with the colourful houses in the background – and indeed, they are the stuff of fairytales.
The warmer months are also the perfect time to take a dip in the architecturally-designed Islands Brygge harbour baths, right in the middle of the city and enjoy relaxing strolls through the city on long, warm summer nights.
In winter, Copenhagen is transformed into a glistening winter wonderland covered in snow. Rug up and embrace your inner-child at the Tivoli Gardens, which was opened in 1843 and known as the world’s second oldest amusement park. It’s also believed to have inspired Walt Disney before the construction of Disneyland. In the evening, with all the lights lit up as the carousel spins around and the rollercoaster reaches dizzying heights, it is simply magical.
4. The food scene is world-renowned
Perhaps best known for the Michelin-starred restaurant Noma, Copenhagen is internationally recognised for its buzzing, up-and-coming culinary scene. While Noma may be the city’s most famous restaurant, there is actually quite a list of other Michelin-starred restaurants on offer too, including Kadeau, Restaurant AOC, 108, formel B, Kiin Kiin, Era Ora and more. A word of advice – make a reservation as early as you can at these establishments.
Looking for something more affordable? Hip neighbourhoods like Vesterbro and Norrebro have a plethora of fantastic bistros, bars and cafes to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for modern Nordic cuisine, Indian, French, Japanese or just a juicy burger and fries.
If you plan to prepare your own meals during your stay, Copenhagen’s markets, like Torvehallerne, offer a sumptuous range of fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meats, exotic spices, craft beers, fine chocolates, and pastries. The markets stretch across 60 stalls. It’s also a great place to enjoy a delicious bite to eat and just people watch.
5. It’s an art and design-lover’s dream
From the moment you arrive in Copenhagen, it is clear that it’s a city of great style and sophisticated design, from the gorgeous interiors of its hotels and restaurants to its sleek homewares stores.
There is also a wide range of amazing museums and galleries to enjoy, including Louisiana Modern Art Museum, located 30 kilometres north of Copenhagen and comprising of four wings, including a sensational sculpture garden. Housed within an 18th century hospital, Designmuseum Danmark is also definitely worth a visit for those who appreciate industrial design.
If you love historic architecture, there are several old castles in Copenhagen for you to visit, including Rosenborg Slot, Christiansborg Slot and Amalienborg Slot.
Want to take home a slice of design with you? Head to Ilum Bolighus – four levels of retail design heaven – or Hay House, a painfully hip stationery and homewares store located in the popular shopping district of Stroget.
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