For Asian travelers, particularly those from Southeast Asia, heading to Denmark can take around 15-18 hours. The journey may include transiting from other airports before arriving at Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also known as Kastrup Airport, the largest airport in Copenhagen, catering to international and domestic flights (ROME ITALY TOP SITES).
A night flight is preferred to arrive in Copenhagen in the morning, ready to start sightseeing. The route from the airport is convenient, taking around 30 minutes to reach most of the top attractions in Copenhagen.
About Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is the capital and largest city of Denmark. It is located on the
eastern coast of the island of Zealand (Sjælland in Danish), facing the Øresund
Strait, which separates Denmark from Sweden. The city also extends onto a small
part of the island of Amager (FREMANTLE AUSTRALIA SIGHTSEEING).
A safe and clean city, Copenhagen has a
mix of preserved history, culture, and legendary landmarks. Ranked as one of
the top travel destinations in the world, the city gives the feel of stepping
back and forth between ancient times and modern life. Aside from the top sites
in Copenhagen, leisurely strolling, admiring the surroundings, and catching
glimpses of daily life make the city even more meaningful.
Top Attractions in Copenhagen, Denmark
Christiansborg Palace
At the heart of Copenhagen stands Christiansborg Palace, one of the top
attractions in the city. Around this area, there are plenty of options for
shopping and food. However, the main attraction remains Christiansborg Palace,
located just across the road.
Christiansborg Palace sits on a small
island called Slotsholmen, also known as Castle Island. As a historic landmark,
it features a brownish, rustic exterior, primarily built from brick, with stone
detailing around windows, doors, and corners. Its Neo-Baroque style reflects
the symmetry and grandeur of royal architecture.
Christiansborg Palace 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.
What to see Inside Christiansborg Palace,
Copenhagen
The Danish Parliament (Folketinget) and the Prime Minister’s offices are not
open to the public. Yet, there are areas that can be visited. Tickets can be
purchased for specific sections, and guided tours are available for some areas.
Even just viewing from a distance is rewarding enough, especially for those
heading to other attractions in Copenhagen on the same day.
Before leaving, it is hard to miss the Absalon
Fountain at Christiansborg Palace, the most significant fountain within the
palace. Built to commemorate Bishop Absalon, the founder of Copenhagen in the
12th century, the sculpture depicts the bishop on horseback, surrounded by
symbolic figures and water features. As a prominent landmark in Copenhagen,
Absalon Fountain is popular for photographs.
Langelinie (Copenhagen Harbour Promenade)
Within a 25-30-minute walk from Christiansborg Palace is Langelinie,
Copenhagen’s Harbour Promenade. The pleasant summer weather makes the walk even
more pleasant and conducive for being in Langelinie.
Regarded as the top promenade in
Copenhagen, Langelinie runs along the eastern waterfront as part of the city’s
harbour area. Once a busy pier, Copenhagen Harbour now combines a walkway, a
cruise terminal, and views of the Øresund Strait.
Langelinie is also the top spot in Copenhagen for walking, jogging, or simply relaxing by the water. Canal cruises provide another option for viewing Copenhagen from a different angle.
The Little Mermaid, Copenhagen
Denmark’s most iconic landmark, the Little Mermaid statue, is a short walk from
the harbour. She draws attention instantly and is a symbol of Copenhagen. The
bronze sculpture has stood since 1913. Created by artist Edvard Eriksen and
inspired by ballerina Ellen Price, it was initiated by Carl Jacobsen, son of the
founder of Carlsberg Brewery, after he saw a ballet based on Hans Christian
Andersen’s fairy tale.
This single statue carries a lot of meaning. Sitting on a rock at the edge of the pier, it attracts countless people taking photos with her. Despite being vandalized several times, the Little Mermaid remains a beloved symbol of Danish culture. Souvenirs and miniature statues are available nearby and throughout the city, making it even more worthy during a trip to Denmark.
Kastellet Fortress (The Citadel),
Copenhagen
A five-minute walk from the Little Mermaid leads to Churchill Park, where Kastellet
(The Citadel), one of Copenhagen’s historic fortresses, is located. While it
may not immediately draw attention, a quick stop at Kastellet is well worth it.
It is one of the best-preserved star-shaped fortresses in Europe. Simply
stunning.
Built in the 17th century, the fort is
still used by the military but is open to the public. Even without going
inside, a stroll around the area allows viewing the striking moat, windmill,
and red barracks, capturing Copenhagen’s past. Kastellet is a must-see for
anyone sightseeing in Copenhagen.
Gefion Fountain (Churchill Park),
Copenhagen
Within Churchill Park, named after Winston Churchill, is the Gefion Fountain,
one of Copenhagen’s iconic landmarks. 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,
Gefion Fountain is a legendary landmark in Copenhagen and a highlight of
Denmark.
St. Alban’s Anglican Church, Copenhagen
Also in Churchill Park, near the Gefion Fountain, is St. Alban’s Anglican
Church, a historic English Gothic church. Surrounded by an open garden, its
tall spire and architectural style are striking. Even just standing outside and
viewing the façade is fulfilling. Regular services are still conducted at the
church today.
