Plenty of copper has oxidized to create beautiful patina. Buildings are designed exquisitely. Bikers and cars actually live in harmony. It’s safe to say that so far, my favorite city in Europe is Copenhagen. There’s a lot to be in awe of there. The city reminds me of what a utopian society might be like—efficient, clean, and fast-paced—and you definitely need to visit. Looking for things to do in Copenhagen that are fun and help you get a feel of the city? Check out my list below.
When we first landed in Copenhagen, we took an Uber to our hotel and chatted with our driver. He let us know that sunshine was rare in Copenhagen and that residents took vitamin D supplements to make up for it. We learned a lot about the lack of sun from him and a lot about the expensive nature of Copenhagen from our Uber bill, yikes! Almost as bad as Switzerland!
Our hotel was one of the highlights of our stay. We stayed for four nights at the Carlton Guldsmeden Copenhagen, an organic oasis in the middle of the city. Seemingly everything was organic: our soaps, shampoos, towels, bed linens, and food. This hotel is a minute’s walk from the Vesterbros Torv bus station and a ten-minute walk from the nineteenth-century Tivoli Gardens amusement park. The rooms have a French Colonial–style vibe, with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Our room specifically had a delightful canopy bed and sitting area. You can indulge in the breakfast buffet, available for a surcharge, or walk around the town for a less pricey breakfast option.
The night we checked in, the manager of the hotel made us panini sandwiches on the house! I liked her, obviously. She also had a gazillion recommendations of places to explore and, most importantly, to get ice cream. She was my kind of people.
So what are some fun must-do’s when you’re in Copenhagen?
Walk around Copenhagen
You will find amazing furniture stores just lining the roads of Copenhagen. I would strongly advise you trade wallets with your friend so that you cannot buy anything but still enjoy everything. If you’re wanting and willing to spend four to six dollar signs on amazing furniture and design, then bust out that wallet and happy shopping!
Coffee First
Perfect for a coffee break!
Church of Our Saviour
At the top, you’ll see a breathtaking 360-degree view of Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Opera House
It’s not necessary to go inside, but you definitely want to at least go see it. It is one of the most expensive opera houses ever built, with construction costs well over $500 million. The theatre can seat up to 1,703 people and is located just opposite the main castle, Amalienborg, at the shore of the harbor.
Den Bla Aquarium
We rented bikes from our hotel and rode all the way to the aquarium. One of the best things about Copenhagen is that it is such a bike-friendly city. The bike lanes are almost as wide as the car lanes! The aquarium is amazing architecture-wise and slightly less interesting inside—unless of course you have kids with you. Kids ADORE this place.
Designmuseum Danmark
This was on hubby’s list of “must-do” items. It’s a museum of international design and crafts plus a delicious little cafe. We checked out the “Learning from Japan” exhibit, which goes on until September 2017. The museum shop is dangerous; you will want more than the normal magnet, I promise.
Little Mermaid Statue
This statue is so unbelievably ordinary. There is nothing special about it except for the hordes of tourists that surround it trying to take selfies. That itself is worth the visit. It.Is.Freaking.Hilarious. If you’re curious, the sculpture is displayed on a rock by the waterside at the Langelinie promenade.
National Museum of Denmark
This is the largest museum of cultural history in Copenhagen. You can also take a break from “learning” at their delicious restaurant. I’d definitely say the best time to go to this museum is before lunch. We had lunch here, and as we were leaving, hordes of tourists were making their way inside. So glad we escaped all those Canons and Nikons!
Next Door Cafe
Perfect for a coffee break! We also had breakfast here. 🙂
Nyhavn
This is a seventeenth-century waterfront, canal, and entertainment district that you’ve most likely seen on everyone and their mother’s Instagram accounts. BUT IT’S SO WORTH IT. Also, this is the space to go in the evening for a drink when you’re just ready to wind down!
The South Indian
Great Indian food in Copenhagen! We loved this place and highly recommend it.
Tivoli Gardens
So we thought Tivoli Gardens were just gardens filled with beautiful flowers. But once we got to the front of the line to buy our tickets, we realized it was so much more! Tivoli Gardens is filled with rides, games, musicals, ballet, food, and major concerts. It is safe to say we went on every single ride and enjoyed all the carnival food. This was one of the highlights of our trip!
If you’re been to Copenhagen before and have suggestions to add to the list, comment below!
