One perfect day in Copenhagen. The sun was shining and it was time to explore. Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and also Scandinavias largest city but it’s surprisingly walkable. Like most European cities there’s lots to see, so let’s get going.
Christiansborg Palace
So my first stop is Christiansborg Palace on the islet of Slotsholmen right in the heart of the city. This is the seat of the Danish Parliament and also houses the office of the Prime Minister and the Supreme Court of Denmark. The palace also houses the Royal Reception Rooms, the Palace Chapel and the Royal Stables which are all still used by the Danish Monarch.
An interesting fact, this is the only building in the world that is home to the three supreme powers. The executive power, the legislative power and the judicial power.
Parts of the palace are open to the public and tickets and more information can be found here https://denkongeligesamling.dk/en/christiansborg-palace/
City Hall
Situated right in the centre of Copenhagen you really can’t miss City Hall. This current building was designed by architect Martin Nyrop in the National Romantic Style with inspiration from Siena City Hall. It was opened in 1905 and its clock tower is still one of the tallest buildings in the city.
It’s free to enter City Hall and there’s a lovely garden in the centre of the building. The central hall is also worth a visit. For some stunning views of the city you can climb to the top of the tower, there’s a small charge for this. Also, don’t miss the Astronomical Clock which can be found inside the main foyer. This also has a small charge.
Tivoli Gardens
Opened in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is one of Copenhagens most famous attractions and is also the third oldest operating amusement park in the world. There are numerous rides scattered throughout the pretty gardens and a full day would be needed to experience all the park has to offer.
More information about the park and tickets are available here Tivoli.dk
Strøget
This is Copenhagens main shopping area and is actually a collection of several streets that stretches from City Hall to Kongens Nytorv. The City Hall end tends to be more budget friendly but as you walk the 1.1 kilometre length it becomes more upscale showcasing names like Cartier, Gucci and Prada.
Take some to time to explore this part of the city and wander the streets off the main drag. This is where you’ll find the more independent type shops and lots of places to eat and drink.
Kongens Nytorv
Kongens Nytorv or translated to English, the King’s New Square is a large square in the centre of Copenhagen which sits at the top of Strøget. This is a great place if you need to take a few minutes to take the weight off your feet. There’s plenty of seating and it’s a fantastic spot to people watch.
Look out for the Royal Danish Theatre – Old Stage. This was the original national theatre and has been in this spot since 1748 but is now part of a trio of royal stages. The beautiful Baroque building of the old stage is now primarily used for ballet performances.
Nyhavn
Nyhavn is a 17th century waterfront canal and entertainment district , but it wasn’t always like that. It was originally a busy commercial port with ships docking from all over the world. Now tourists flock to the area to view its 17th and 18th century houses painted in bright colours, to take boat trips or to eat and drink in some of the many bars and restaurants that line the canal.
Hans Christian Andersen lived at number 67 between 1845 and 1864 and then again at Nyhavn 18 between 1871 and 1875, this building is now home to an Andersen themed gift shop. There are also several ships from the Danish National Museum moored along the south side of the canal, some of which can be visited.
Amalienborg Palace
Amalienborg Palace is the seat of the Danish Monarchy, one of the oldest monarchies in the world. Amalienborg is made up of four architecturally identical buildings. These buildings encircle the palace square and overlook the 1771 statue of King Frederik V. The buildings are Christian VII’s Palace, also known as Moltke’s Palace, this is a guest residence. Frederik VIII’s Palace, also known as Brockdorff’s Palace, home of King Frederik X, Queen Mary and their children. Christian IX’s Palace, also known as Schacks Palace, home of Queen Margrethe II and finally Christian VIII’s Palace, also known as Levetzau’s Palace which is being used as a guest palace for Prince Joachim and Princess Benedikte. This palace also houses the Amalienborg Museum.
In the Amalienborg Museum you get a behind the scenes insight into the royal family and allows access to some of the private rooms of recent kings and queens.
You can find out more information and book tickets to visit the palace by using the link below.
https://denkongeligesamling.dk/en/amalienborg-museum
Frederik’s Church
Frederik’s Church (Frederiks Kirke in Danish) is more popularly known by its nickname, the Marble Church. Work started in 1749 but it wasn’t until 1894, some 145 years later that the church was finally finished. Despite its nickname the church is actually not made of marble, it was part of the original plan but as with a lot of these type of projects things changed.
Visiting the church is free with the exception of the dome. This is open at 1pm everyday during the summer and at weekends the rest of the year. There is a charge to enter the dome and there are limited tickets available on a first come first served basis.
So I’ve nearly come to the end of my one perfect day in Copenhagen but there’s one small thing missing that I should tell you about before I go. Of course it’s the Little Mermaid.
The Little Mermaid
One of Copenhagens most iconic attractions is the Little Mermaid. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale the sculpture was a gift to the city from Carl Jacobson, a Danish brewer. It was unveiled in August 1913. The mermaid sits on a granite rock in the water at Langelinie Pier. I found it to be quite disappointing, it’s very small and if it wasn’t for people taking pictures of it you’d probably walk past it but it is a popular attraction.
Well that’s it, my one perfect day in Copenhagen is over. I really have enjoyed my short time here and it’s yet another city that I’d love to return to again.
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