Denmark’s capital is a must visit while in Europe. It’s got everything you could want: Instagram worthy buildings, cool neighbourhoods, delicious foods and plenty to see and do. If you’ve only got 2 days you want to make the most of it, these are 8 essential things to do in Copenhagen.
Go see the palace
Even if you’re not a Royal lover, the Amalienborg Palace is a must visit regardless. A stunning building, its architecture is as impressive as the changing of the Royal Guard. The Royal Family still live there but you can check out parts of it and see the museum to get some history into you.
Relax in the Tivoli gardens
The Tivoli Gardens are an amusement park and pleasure grounds with rides and concerts. Something is ALWAYS happening in the beautiful park, so be sure to stick around for some live music and to see the fairy lights at night.
Visit Christiania, a free town
What’s a free town you ask? Freetown Christiania, or just Christiania, is a self-proclaimed autonomous district of around 1,000 people in the borough of Christianshavn, in Copenhagen. They have their own set of rules outside of Danish law and live a different way of life that’s centred on being eco-friendly. No photos or cars are allowed (you’ve been warned!) but it’s 100% worth a look.
See the famous little mermaid
You can’t go to Copenhagen and not see its most famous piece of art, The Little Mermaid bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen. It’s smaller than you think and found on an unassuming rock by the waterside at the Langelinie promenade. Expect crowds, or beat the crowds and take a canal tour so you can see it by boat.
Eat smørrebrød
Smørrebrød is basically an open-faced sandwich. But they’re actually so much more than that. Served on dense rye bread with a huge variety of toppings (cheese, fruit, nuts, fish, thinly shaved meats and pickled veggies), there’s a taste to suit everyone! The layering is important too, so take a moment before you dive into it with a knife and fork (not your hands!).
Ride like a local
Do like the Danes do and get around by bike! It’s good for you and the environment, and you’ll be able to get around quicker than on foot thanks to the bike lanes. Not super confident? Opt for a bike sight-seeing tour so someone else leads the way.
Do a Danish swim
Danes love to swim (despite the cooler climate) and they have a special way of getting their heart pumping, fondly known as a Danish swim. You simply jump in the cold sea, then go in the sauna, then jump in the sea, then back to the sauna! The changes in temperature are said to be good for you, and who are we to argue?
Explore the hipster neighbourhoods
Copenhagen is cool. Like, really cool. If you want to discover some quirky, offbeat and downright interesting places to eat, shop and check out, head to Vesterbro (in the Kødbyen area) or Nørrebro neighbourhoods. Between trendy coffee shops and high-end galleries, all your hipster needs will be satisfied.
