Thursday, June 6, 2024

Copenhagen, Denmark Travel Guide

Statue of two sisters, together in garden setting, known as Norway Thanks Denmark, Copenhagen.
Denmark, a Nordic country in Northern Europe, is made up of a mainland and several islands. With strong Viking roots and one of the world’s oldest monarchies, Denmark has played a key role in European history. Today, it ranks as one of the happiest and safest countries in the world.

Mention Denmark, and what comes to mind is clean air, peaceful countryside, and a deep connection to nature, especially beyond the busy cities. These are just some of the reasons why travelers choose Denmark as a destination (SHIMLA INDIA TRAVEL GUIDE).

Indian lady leaning and posing on a stylish woman's poster, in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Things You Need to Know About Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital and largest city of Denmark, sits on the eastern coast of Zealand. For visitors, it’s the starting point for discovering the country, and for good reason. The city blends old-world charm with modern design, offering everything from royal palaces and historic landmarks to stylish architecture and clean, well-planned streets.


What makes Copenhagen special is how well it preserves its history while staying current. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, yet surrounded by modern comforts.


Even better, most of the city’s main attractions are close to each other, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Add in the city’s safety, smart layout, and calm atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Copenhagen ranks as one of the top travel destinations in the world (THINGS TO DO IN VENICE ITALY).

Indian lady tilting and posing in Copenhagen Harbour Promenade,  Denmark.
Christiansborg Palace
Christiansborg Palace is located in central Copenhagen, in a lively area filled with shops and places to eat. Visitors often walk through this part of the city, and even from a distance, the palace stands out. Whether you're walking along the side road or approaching from the front, its impressive brown-stone architecture immediately catches the eye.

 

The palace sits on Slotsholmen, also known as Castle Island, and is one of the most important buildings in Denmark. It houses the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court. Some parts are still used by the Royal Family for official events.

 

A large open square in front of the palace invites visitors to stop, admire the architecture, and take photos. Just across the main road is the Christiansborg Riding Ground Fountain, a decorative and symbolic reminder of the former royal stables nearby.

 

Together, Christiansborg Palace and its surroundings reflect Denmark’s royal and political history, making it a must-visit in Copenhagen.

Christiansborg Palace rustic brown outside structure - Copenhagen, Denmark, view from across the road.
Langelinie (Copenhagen Harbour Promenade)
Langelinie is about a 25- to 30-minute walk from Christiansborg Palace. If you're visiting Copenhagen in summer or autumn, the pleasant weather makes walking ideal. You can also take a taxi or join a tour group, as coaches usually park across the road from Christiansborg.

 

Public transport is another option. Take the metro from Gammel Strand Station (near Christiansborg) to Østerport Station, it takes just 4 minutes. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to Langelinie. This promenade, part of Copenhagen’s harbour area, runs along the eastern waterfront. Once a busy pier, it’s now a peaceful walkway and cruise terminal with lovely views of the Øresund Strait.

 

Langelinie is perfect for a walk, jog, or just relaxing by the water. It’s also a great place to catch a harbour or canal cruise and see Copenhagen from a different angle. Even if you skip the cruise, simply sitting on a bench and enjoying the sea breeze makes Langelinie a memorable stop.

Copenhagen Harbour Promenade, with water and building across, in Denmark.
The Little Mermaid
From the harbour, take a short walk to one of Denmark’s most iconic landmarks, The Little Mermaid statue. This bronze sculpture has been a symbol of Copenhagen since 1913. Created by artist Edvard Eriksen and inspired by ballerina Ellen Price, it was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of Carlsberg Brewery, after he saw a ballet based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale.

 

The statue sits on a rock at the edge of the pier and attracts hundreds of visitors daily. Because of the crowds, taking a clear photo can be tricky. If you step down to get closer, be careful, the rocks can be slippery.

 

Despite being vandalised several times, The Little Mermaid remains a beloved symbol of Danish culture. Souvenirs and miniature statues can be found nearby and throughout the city, making for a meaningful memento from your trip.

Grey stone seated, The Little Mermaid Statue on a rock, at the pier,  Copenhagen, Denmark.
Kastellet (The Citadel)
Just a five-minute walk from The Little Mermaid brings you to Churchill Park, where Kastellet (The Citadel) is located. Some visitors may walk past without noticing it, but it’s worth a quick stop. Kastellet is one of the best-preserved star-shaped fortresses in Europe.

 

Built in the 17th century, it is still used by the military but is open to the public. Even if you don’t explore the inside, a stroll around the area lets you enjoy the moat, windmill, and red barracks. For locals, it’s a peaceful spot to relax. For visitors, it offers a quiet glimpse into Copenhagen’s past.

green view of Churchill Park with bridge and lake, in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Gefion Fountain (Churchill Park)
Located within Churchill Park, the Gefion Fountain is one of Copenhagen’s most striking sights. The park itself is a peaceful garden named after Winston Churchill.

 

If you visit in the evening, you might find the area quieter, allowing you to enjoy it at your own pace. The large bronze sculpture shows the Norse goddess Gefion driving four strong oxen. According to legend, she used them to plough land from Sweden,  forming Zealand, Denmark’s largest island.

 

Gifted by the Carlsberg Foundation in 1908 to celebrate Copenhagen’s 50th anniversary as a city, the fountain is both artistic and symbolic. With its dramatic water display and mythical story, it adds a magical touch to your walk through the area.

Gideon Foundation stone half head statue, with water shooting from the mouth, Copenhagen, Denmark.
St. Alban’s Anglican Church
Also in Churchill Park, near the Gefion Fountain, is St. Alban’s Anglican Church. With its tall spire and English Gothic style, it stands out beautifully against the green surroundings.

 

Built in the late 1800s for Copenhagen’s English-speaking community, the church still holds regular services today. Visitors are welcome to enter during service hours or special events to admire its stained-glass windows and wooden interior. It’s best to check opening times before planning your visit.

 

If the church is closed, you can still enjoy its impressive exterior. Surrounded by spacious gardens, St. Alban’s Church is striking and hard to miss, a graceful piece of history tucked within one of Copenhagen’s quietest parks.

St.Alban Church and Gifeon Fountain in Churchill Park, Copenhagen, Denmark.

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