Copenhagen, Denmark Port

Overview

Set foot in Copenhagen, and you enter a fairytale world where historic buildings and cobbled streets make perfect surroundings for pedestrians. Copenhagen was the home of Hans Christian Andersen, who penned some of the world’s best-loved children’s stories. The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid were amongst his creations, with the latter honoured by a bronze statue off the Langelinie Harbour. Copenhagen is on Denmark’s east coast, and has a rich Viking history. It’s also home to the oldest monarchy in the world.

Sightseeing in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is easy to navigate, with narrow pedestrian streets lined with shops and galleries. Parks, gardens and canals provide perfect places to relax, with many restaurants and cafes offering outdoor seating to customers. Art and literature are as important now as they ever have been and the city, built up from a fishing hamlet, is one of the world’s finest examples of urban planning. On a cruise that docks at Copenhagen, be sure to visit these tourist attractions:

Copenhagen Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in Europe, Copenhagen Zoo was founded in 1859. It has an observation tower, and is one of Denmark’s most popular attractions. Many of the original zoo buildings are still standing, as examples of 19th Century architecture.

The Danish National Gallery

Known as the Statens Museum for Kunst, this is a prominent building housing varied and interesting collections. Works of art by Matisse, Picasso and Rembrandt are among those on display, and you’ll also be able to view the Royal Cast Collection and the Royal Painting and Sculpture Collection.

Nationalmuseet

Offering an insight into Copenhagen’s incredible history, this elegant building includes exhibitions of Bronze Age and Viking artefacts ranging from rune stones to weapons. The museum’s Restaurant Julian serves Nordic cuisine, with frequently changing menus influenced by foods served throughout Denmark’s history.

Shopping in Copenhagen

Copenhagen’s Fields mall is one of the most popular places to shop. It’s a typical American-style mall, of the type now commonly seen in the UK and overseas, though as a visitor you might prefer to walk the cobbled streets fringed by craft shops, fashion boutiques and antique emporiums.

The flea markets throughout Copenhagen are ideal if you enjoy a spot of bargain hunting. Walking from stall to stall can bring back nostalgic memories, as you find collectables and valuables hidden amongst bric-a-brac items.

Whilst you might be used to shopping into the evening, Copenhagen’s strict shop opening regulations mean that most places close before 6pm on weekdays and before 4pm on Saturdays. Using your limited time to best effect, you’ll be able to find fine porcelain, pieces of art and a variety of other souvenirs.

Eating Out in Copenhagen

As well as the traditional Danish fayre served at Nationalmuseet, you’ll be able to enjoy more modern authentic dishes, and meals influenced by the cuisine of other European destinations. French meals and American favourites are amongst the most popular alternatives served at Copenhagen restaurants.

The people of Copenhagen often enjoy a hearty brunch, usually meeting up with people that they socialised with the prior evening. Brunches are again influenced by French and American cuisine, whilst Danish breads feature heavily. As well as restaurant meals, and lighter options at cafes, you’ll be tempted by street sellers offering shawarma, Danish pastries and pizzas. Don’t leave Copenhagen without tasting Denmark’s popular rye-bread sandwiches, served throughout the city.