Monocle, the prominent British lifestyle magazine, has repeatedly named Copenhagen among “the world’s most liveable cities”. In fact, the Danish capital has had top ranking four times. The city’s brisk weather, architecture and history – along with residents who consider themselves among the world’s happiest people – offer visitors a bracing experience. February is the city’s coldest month, so now is an ideal time to take a three-day break in the most European capital of the Nordic world. First on the list: a plane ticket to Copenhagen.
Where to Go in Copenhagen: Day One
Like a postcard: Nyhavn
Start a day in Copenhagen by exploring Nyhavn, one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque and most photographed neighborhoods. The port area features music, cafes and restaurants, as well as an annual Christmas Market. Take a boat tour on the canal – or rent a kayak or a canoe and go at your own pace! In Christianshavn, you can see houses built on reclaimed swampy land and houseboats floating on the canal.
One of the World’s Oldest Amusement Parks: Tivoli Gardens
Whatever your age, the Tivoli Gardens are utterly delightful. Set in the heart of Copenhagen, this amusement park, opened in the mid- 1800s, offers lush greenery, historic buildings, and both modern and nostalgic rides. At night, the park is illuminated by thousands of tiny colored lights.
A Michelin Paradise Without Salmon
While touring Copenhagen, our guide Anne surprised us by saying that the salmon we love was found only in average restaurants in Denmark. She told us that salmon is preferred by the locals so it is not a fancy choice especially in luxury restaurants. In any case, Denmark does have a robust fishing industry, and wild salmon were, at one point, quite plentiful. Meanwhile, in addition to numerous cafes and coffee shops, the city also hosts the most Michelin-starred restaurants of any Nordic city – fourteen. It’s worth making a reservation to sample seasonal Scandinavian ingredients and avant-garde tasting menus.
Where to Go in Copenhagen: Day Two
Roskilde and the Viking Ship Museum
Roskilde is home to the world-famous Roskilde Festival. Established in 1971, this lively music festival lasts an average of eight days. It is around a 45-minute drive from the center of the city, but worth a visit, particularly to see the spectacular Viking Ship Museum. In addition to exhibits on regional seafaring and boatbuilding culture in ancient and medieval times, the Viking Ship Hall features five preserved Viking ships, found in Roskilde Fjord. On display since 1969, the five ships include large and smaller longships, a fishing vessel, and a cargo ship.
An Iconic Bridge: The Oresund
The 7,845-metre Oresund Bridge – also featured in the ‘Nordic Noir’ Bron/Broen television series – connects Copenhagen and the Swedish city of Malmö. Immerse yourself in this otherworldly atmosphere: enjoy a dark coffee while gazing across the water… ☺
A Quick Getaway: Malmö
If you do take the train to Malmö, you can take a ‘Nordic Noir Tour’, which is a guided walk around locations featured in some of the region’s popular television series, among them “Borgen”, a political drama with a female protagonist; the aforementioned Bron/Broen; and the acclaimed “The Killing”. Note: these tours are also available in Copenhagen, where many of the series are filmed.
To Socialize: Kødbyen
The lively, 24-hour Kødbyen neighborhood offers galleries, clubs, and restaurants; its post-industrial vibe is said to evoke New York City’s Meatpacking District.
Where to Go in Copenhagen: Day Three
There’s certainly plenty more to see in Copenhagen! Here are a few more recommendations for your third day in the city:
- Rosenborg Castle to see the Queen’s dazzling jewels
- Tage Andersen, which is something between an art gallery and a flower shop – and utterly wonderful.
- Strøget, a dynamic 1.1-kilometre pedestrian mall with local and global shops, boutiques, and design stores.
Finally: A Few Notes
Where To Stay in Copenhagen
Some suggestions from those who know Copenhagen: If budget is no concern, many recommend the luxe Hotel D’Angleterre. The Guldsmeden and Comfort hotel chains are both reasonably priced and offer value for money. Near Strøget, the Square Hotel is quite nice, though the rooms are on the smaller side. In Christianshavn, you can find houses or houseboats for short-term rentals.
What to eat in Copenhagen
If you’re up for a splurge, make a reservation at one of the city’s 14 Michelin-starred restaurants to enjoy high-concept regional fare. There are also plenty of Italian and French restaurants around, including the acclaimed Bistro Boheme, which focuses on seafood, game and meat, and Les Trois Cochons, serving classic French dishes only for dinner.
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