Situated on the east coast of Denmark, Copenhagen has been the capital of the country for 600 years. Above all, here is the place with the oldest monarchy in the world. Firstly, you must know that Copenhagen was a Viking fishing village founded in the 10th century. Secondly, that it became the capital of Denmark in the early 15th century. The name of the city reflects its origin as a harbour and a place of commerce.

Copenhagen is a city very rich in history, in magnificent castles and greenery. It is a charming city with buildings constructed during the 17th and 18th centuries. Moreover, it offers parks and gardens, water-walks and hundreds of years old streets made for walking and cycling. It is the most visited area of ​​Scandinavia. However, is one of the most expensive cities in the world, alongside with Oslo and London.

On the other hand, Copenhagen is an important regional center of culture, business, media and science. In addition, its location is strategic with excellent infrastructure, having the largest airport in Scandinavia. You will find plenty to visit in this city. So what are you waiting for?

Historic attractions in Copenhagen

Kronborg Castle (Elsinore) is the castle that was immortalised by William Shakespeare under the name of Elsinore in his well-known play, Hamlet. Firstly, you must know that it is one of the most beautiful renaissance castles. Secondly, it is the best preserved  citadel over  time throughout Northern Europe. Certainly, for this reason, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Also known as Elsinore, the Shakespeare tragedy, Kronborg was the place where Hamlet played to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of the British playwright.

Christiansborg Palace is located in Slotsholmen and was the home of the Royal Danish Family from 1400 until 1794. Most importantly, the palace is the place where all the three powers of a democratic state are based. However, this palace is the property of the Danish state. Also, some parts of the palace are used by the Danish monarchy, including the royal chapel, reception rooms and royal stables.

Museums in Copenhagen

The National Museum has exhibitions from the Stone Age, the Viking Age, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and from the Modern Danish History. It is located in the Prince’s Palace and built during 1743-44. It is no longer used by the royal family, but the Great Hall still seems elegant enough to fit princes and princesses. You can come here and learn about the history of this lovely city.

The Open Air Museum is perhaps one of the most interesting attractions of the capital of Denmark. This is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, built in 1897. Come here to see more than 100 houses dating back to 1650s and 1950s.  Moreover, there are more than 25 historical and cultural gardens around the museum. You can visit the museum for free and learn something new and interesting.

The Geological Museum in Copenhagen includes a number of geological collections. Firstly, at the museum you can see objects such as rocks, minerals, meteorites and fossils. Secondly, you can explore and discover more about the Solar system and the Earth. But also you can find out about the forces of nature which have shaped our own planet and life upon it through millions of years.

National Aquarium Denmark, Den Blå Planet is Northern Europe’s largest aquarium and offers a unique experience for children and adults. Exposing over 300 species of marine life all over the world, the Aquarium in Denmark has over 70 aquariums. Other facilities include a café shop where you can take a break and food. You can assist also during the feeding shows.

Other attractions in Copenhagen

Tycho Brahe Planetarium was inaugurated in 1989 after its about a year and a half of construction. It is very popular especially among children, being the largest of its kind in Denmark. Come here and learn interesting information about the Universe. In addition, there is also a capsule that gives you the feeling of claustrophobia. Only when you see it , you will understand the cosmonaut’s training. The Planetarium features a cinema hall with an IMAX screen and a star projector that can display 4000 stars, the sun and the planets in our solar system.

Best time to visit Copenhagen

The best time to visit Copenhagen is in the spring or summer depending on what you’re looking for. If you are looking for lower rates and fewer crowds you can enjoy the mild weather in the spring. Between May and September, the streets come alive as cafes shops fill the sidewalks and also the festivals with music. Beginning in October, the city goes into hibernation for the winter to escape the cold. The only exception is December, when hotels fill for holiday celebrations.

Why to go in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a city that must immediately go to your city break list. On the one hand, it seems to have been designed by Hans Christian Andersen, the renowned story writer who lived in the Danish capital. On the other hand, modern and minimalist buildings immediately remind you that you are in Scandinavia. Channels, boats, castles, old amusement parks, green areas and a lot of relaxation.

By bus: Local buses run 24-hours a day and are an easy way to get around. Buy a City Pass for unlimited access to all public transport.

On foot: The best way to explore the sights in the city centre is on foot.

By hire car: On a sunny day, hire a car and take a day trip to the suburbs of the city. Traffic is usually manageable and hire prices are reasonable.

By bicycle: Copenhagen is known as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. The city’s bicycle paths and cycle tracks are extensive and well used. Bicycle paths are often separated from the main traffic lanes and sometimes have their own signal systems, giving the cyclists a lead of a couple of seconds to accelerate.