Standing at a crossroads between Scandinavia and central Europe, Copenhagen is a metropolis that defies straightforward labels. Such defiance, nevertheless, is what makes the town such an enchanting place to go to. There are dozens of issues to do in Copenhagen for vacationers of any ilk, and with such a pleasant mix of tradition, historical past, and modernity at your fingertips, there are many nice locations to start out your journey as nicely. 

Vibrant Tradition

Copenhagen’s Outdated World structure belies the modernity of its Nordic tradition. Very like their neighbors to the north, Copenhagen’s residents have a robust dedication to the setting and sustainability, in addition to holistic dwelling. This cultural bedrock results in some thrilling and distinctive experiences to get pleasure from all through the town. 

One of the best ways to see Copenhagen is because the locals do – by biking! Bicycles might be rented throughout the town, and excursions can be found for many who desire one thing a bit extra structured. To actually stay the native expertise, nevertheless, merely seize a motorcycle, bounce in a lane, and comply with the site visitors wherever it takes you. Observe you can additionally tour the town by boat and – within the winter – by spa boat for a really distinctive expertise.

Whereas in your bike tour, take into account stopping by one of many metropolis’s many parks to benefit from the lovely surroundings. The King’s Backyard exterior Rosenborg Citadel is a good choice, as are the town’s botanical gardens. If you wish to see the grave of Little Mermaid creator Hans Christian Andersen, head to Assistens Cemetery, which additionally doubles as a park. 

Residing Historical past

Whereas Copenhagen definitely has its justifiable share of palaces and museums, one of the simplest ways to expertise the town’s storied historical past is thru exploring its wealthy districts and neighborhoods. There you’ll discover that Copenhagen’s historical past may be very a lot alive and nicely, mixing with the current in methods each unusual and satisfying. 

Nowhere is that this extra obvious than Tivoli Gardens, one of many oldest amusement parks on the planet. Although the park boasts fashionable rides and different amusements, a lot of its attraction comes from merely touring the grounds that date again to the nineteenth century. Very like the town itself, Tivoli captures that uncommon feeling of dwelling in one other period whereas having fun with all of the comforts of this one. Those that need to go to the oldest amusement park on the planet ought to head simply exterior the town to Dyrehavsbakken, established approach again in 1583. 

Extra historic adventures await at Nyhavn, a seventeenth century waterfront district as filled with coloration and life because it’s ever been. The district is nice for photograph ops and grabbing a chunk. Finish your themed tour the place historical past meets fable on the icon of Copenhagen: the statue of The Little Mermaid. Situated close to the northeastern harbor, you may get there by land or by taking a canal tour straight from Nyhavn. 

Indulgent Eats

Although Copenhagen is firmly rooted in its previous, the town continues to maneuver ahead in surprising methods. One such transfer lately is the reinvention of Nordic delicacies into the appropriately-titled “New Nordic Delicacies.” Dishes concentrate on native and seasonal flavors, and are at all times ready with natural, sustainable produce. Attempt it out at one in every of Copenhagen’s prime eating places, resembling Noma, Kadeau, or Restaurant AOC. These Michelin star eating places don’t come low cost, however will definitely add one thing particular to your itinerary.

In fact, extra conventional Danish delicacies is at all times an choice, and a extra reasonably priced one at that. Smørrebrød, or Danish open face sandwiches are a tasty choice, and Grod (Danish porridge) definitely holds its personal. Take a look at a meals market or extra conventional eating places across the metropolis to bask in these native favorites.

Header photograph by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash