Copenhagen Travel Guide
Odense
Address: Copenhagen
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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Tivoli Gardens
Address: Vesterbrogade 3 Copenhagen
Admission: General Admission: DKK 110 (adults and children over 8); children under 8 years free. There are multiple ticket options and attractions like rides cost extra so be sure to consult the website for specific pricing details. Open 6 April until 25 September. Open daily at 11am; closing times vary according to season, but usually between 11pm and 12am. See website for details.
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.<br /><br />
Copenhagen Historical Museums
Address: The Museum of Copenhagen, Vesterbrogade 59. The National Museum, Ny Vestergade 10. Open Air Museum, Kongevejen 100 Copenhagen
Admission: Copenhagen City Museum: DKK 20 (adults), children under 18 free; Fridays free for all. National Museum: Free. Open Air Museum: Free. Copenhagen City Museum: 10am to 5pm daily. National Museum: Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. Open Air Museum: Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm (May to October).
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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Nyhavn Canal
Address: Nyhavn 1-71, 1051 København K Copenhagen
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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Rosenborg Castle
Address: Øster Voldgade 4 Copenhagen
Admission: Entry to the gardens is free. The castle: DKK 105 (adults); children under 17 free. January to May: 10am to 2pm. June to August: 9am to 5pm. September to October: 10am to 4pm. November to December: 10am to 2pm Tuesday to Sunday. Times can vary month to month and at certain times the castle is closed on Mondays so be sure to consult the website for specific dates.
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.<br /><br />
Bornholm
Address: Copenhagen
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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Freetown Christiania
Address: In the borough of Christianshavn Copenhagen
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'.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
The Little Mermaid Statue
Address: Langelinie Harbour Copenhagen
The Little Mermaid, basking on a rock at the Langelinie Harbour, is one of Copenhagen's biggest tourist attractions.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Christiansborg Palace
Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København Copenhagen
Admission: Royal Reception Rooms, adults DKK 90 and children DKK 45; the Ruins, adults DKK 50 and children DKK 25; combined ticket for several attractions, adults DKK 150 and children DKK 75. Most of the palace is open daily between 10am to 5pm; between October and April it is closed on Mondays. It is always possible that the palace might be closed for special events.
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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Legoland Billund
Address: Nordmarksvej 9, 7190 Billund Copenhagen
Admission: Adults DKK 349; Children (aged 3 - 12) and Seniors DKK 329. Seasonal, open April to October. Check the website for specific dates as opening times vary month to month and sometimes even more frequently.
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.<br /><br />
Bakken Amusement Park
Address: Dyrehavevej 62 Copenhagen
Admission: Entry is free. Wristbands allowing access to rides cost DKK 249 for adults, and DKK 179 for small children. Opening times vary depending on the day and month - check the calendar on the official website for details.
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 free-ranging deer.<br /><br />
Denmark Aquarium
Address: Kavalergården 1 Copenhagen
Admission: DKK 170 (adults); DKK 95 (children aged 3 - 11). Open daily: 10am - 9pm (Monday); 10am - 5pm (Tuesday to Sunday).
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, well-maintained 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.<br /><br />
Copenhagen Zoo
Address: Roskildevej 38 Copenhagen
Admission: DKK 170 for adults, and DKK 95 for children. November to February: 10am - 4pm daily. March: 10am - 4pm weekdays, and 10am - 5pm weekends. April, May and September: 10am - 5pm weekdays, and 10am - 6pm weekends. 1 - 27 June and 11 - 31 August: 10am - 6pm daily. 28 June - 10 August: 10am - 6pm daily. October: 10am -5pm daily.
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.<br /><br />
Experimentarium
Address: Tuborg Havnevej 7 Copenhagen
Admission: DKK 160 (adults); DKK 105 (children 3-11); free for children under three. Open daily: Monday, and Wednesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm; Tuesday 10am to 9pm; Weekends 11am to 5pm.
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.<br /><br />
Esbjerg
Address: Copenhagen
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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br /> 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.<br /><br />
Ida Davidsen
Address: 70 Store Kongensgade Copenhagen
Food Type: Local
Denmark's undisputed gourmet speciality is the smorrebrod (known to non-Danes as 'smorgasbord'), a selection of open sandwiches served for lunch, usually made up of a variety of fish and seafood. The smorgasbord 'queen' in Copenhagen is Ida Davidsen, who is the fifth generation of her family to serve this unique cuisine and offers the longest smorgasbord menu in Denmark at six feet (2m) long! Try the 'Preben Elkjær' on rye bread with plaice fillets, asparagus and smoked salmon. Open Monday to Friday, 10.30am to 5pm. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />
Paludans Book and Cafe
Address: Fiolstraede 10-12 Copenhagen
Food Type: Café
This cosy restaurant, situated in a busy bookshop and art gallery popular with Copenhagen's student population, is a great place to relax whether you want a small cup of coffee or huge plate of lasagne. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the cafe offers local beer on tap and some of the best people-watching in Copenhagen. There is a good selection for vegetarians as well.<br /><br />
Café Sorgenfri
Address: 8 Brolæggerstræde Copenhagen
Food Type: Café
For a traditional meal and a good time, follow the local workers to their popular luncheon spot, Café Sorgenfri. The simple 19th-century basement restaurant in the heart of the city's pedestrian precinct was originally a sailor's tavern and is still a very lively drinking hole after the kitchen closes. The décor reflects old Copenhagen with its gilt-framed pictures, wrought-iron chandeliers and leather-panelled walls. At lunch time, it is sought after for its excellent classic smorrebrods (open sandwiches), washed down with a Carlsberg beer. Open daily from 11am to 9pm. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />
Det Lille Apotek
Address: 15 Store Kannikestræde Copenhagen
Food Type: Local
This cosy, traditional restaurant is reputedly the oldest eatery in Copenhagen, dating back to 1720. In days of yore it was an artist's meeting place and now features menu items named for Danish celebrities who used to dine here, like Hans Christian Andersen and Soren Kierkegaard. The food is traditional Danish and one of the signature dishes is 'Apoteker Stew' - tenderloin, bacon, cocktail sausages and pineapple in a creamy paprika sauce. Open for lunch and dinner daily, reservations recommended.<br /><br />
Ristorante Vesuvio
Address: 4 Radhuspladsen Copenhagen
Food Type: Italian
Italian cuisine has become the international favourite and Copenhagen's copious list of restaurants would not be complete without an Italian gem. The Ristorante Vesuvio fits the bill, serving up a heart-warming 'Chef's Pasta Parade' of tasty options, and a selection of pizzas. The menu also features numerous Italian gourmet meat and fish dishes. Open daily for lunch and dinner, reservations recommended.<br /><br />
Promenaden in Tivoli
Address: Vesterbrogade 3, Tivoli Copenhagen
Food Type: Gastropubs
In Copenhagen's famous Tivoli Gardens, the bustling Promenaden is a 'multi-food-house'. With a view to the Garden's open-air stage, an international menu and vibey atmosphere, the premises also include a bar and café, as well as live music at weekends. On offer are staples like barbecue spare ribs, steaks and pasta or, for a real budget snack, head for the back corridor where there is a sausage bar and beef sandwich deli. The restaurant functions during the summer season only when Tivoli itself is open from 12pm to midnight.<br /><br />
Godt
Address: 38 Gothersgade Copenhagen
Food Type: International
Catering to a maximum of 20 guests at a time, Godt is a classy restaurant offering a very personalised and intimate dining experience. This refined approach is extended to the polished Danish menu, offering a selection of the finest veal, seafood and vegetables, all prepared with fresh local herbs. Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, reservations essential.<br /><br />
Noma
Address: 93 Strandgade Copenhagen
Food Type: Local
Set in an 18th century waterfront warehouse, Noma exudes Nordic charm in its functional simplicity. The décor combines oak, stone and leather with glass and metal in a light and spacious dining area. Using fresh ingredients from the North Atlantic, the menu offers Scandinavian cuisine such as pork with wild ramson leaves, or sautéed lobster with pickled hip rose. Open for lunch Tuesday to Saturday, and dinner Monday to Saturday. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />
Khun Juk Oriental
Address: 9 Store Kongensgade Copenhagen
Food Type: Thai
Set in Boltens Gård, Khun Juk is a stylish Thai restaurant celebrated for its authentic cuisine. Favourites from the menu include spicy Thai beef salad or steamed mussels with horapa (Thai sweet basil) and lemongrass. The dining room has classic décor and a warm atmosphere, while the outdoor area has lovely café umbrellas and potted plants. Open Monday to Saturday for dinner, reservations recommended.<br /><br />
Peder Oxe
Address: Gråbrødretorv 11, 1154 Copenhagen K Copenhagen
Food Type: Local
Located in Grabrodretorv, one of the oldest squares in Copenhagen, Restaurant Peder Oxe is set in an historic 19th-century building with light-filled rooms and high ceilings. The menu varies with the changing of the season and includes everything from classic lamb and beef dishes to fresh seafood and game. The 'Market Buffet' also offers a great selection. Open daily for lunch and dinner, reservations recommended.<br /><br />
(Data provided outside US and Canada by Foreca, Data provided for US and Canada by WDT)
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(Data provided outside US and Canada by Foreca, Data provided for US and Canada by WDT)
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Description Round pins. |
Voltage 230 V |
Frequency 50 Hz |
Type C |
Description Round pins with a spade grounding pin. |
Voltage 230 V |
Frequency 50 Hz |
Type K |