Copenhagen's must-sees
Whether in terms of design, ecology or new technologies, Copenhagen is undoubtedly one of the most inspiring cities in Europe. Capital of hygge, this movement dedicated to well-being which advocates a philosophy of daily joy, its inhabitants have often been voted the happiest in the world. Crisscrossed by canals, Copenhagen can be explored on foot or by bike, with many cycle paths. From its Little Mermaid to its historic amusement park via its free city, here is our selection of the essentials for a successful stay in the Danish capital.
The Tivoli Gardens, for young and old
This major amusement park opened its doors in 1843. It has one of the oldest roller coasters in the world but also bumper cars, duck fishing and ghost trains: it's a real funfair at the old-fashioned atmosphere! It is also said that Walt Disney had the idea of opening his first amusement park after visiting the Tivoli Gardens in 1951.
Christiansborg Palace, the Danish Parliament
Seat of the Danish Parliament, Christianborg Castle was the main residence of the king until 1794. Today, the Parliament – The Folktinget – is open to all, so it is possible to attend the debates of the deputies, in the original language ! During the visit, we discover the history of Danish parliamentary democracy and the workings of its Parliament. It’s also the opportunity to climb Copenhagen’s tallest tower to enjoy a splendid view of the surrounding area.
The Louisiana Museum, modern art and nature
If you come to the Louisiana Museum to admire the masterpieces of contemporary art, from Picasso to Matisse via Giacometti, you will not fail to take a break to enjoy the exceptional setting in which the building was built. Located on a small hill overlooking the sea, the Lousiana museum has managed to combine natural beauties and treasures of modern art, particularly in its park populated with sculptures or in its rooms with large bay windows.
Nørrebro, a bohemian neighborhood
Nørrebro is one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods. A true small artists' village located northwest of the center of Copenhagen, it is the ideal place for bargain hunting and strolling. The Assistance cemetery – Assistens Kirkegård – is very popular for a Sunday stroll. The Danes come to take advantage of the calm of the place to go jogging or rollerblading. This is where HC Andersen, the famous novelist, is buried.
The Round Tower, Copenhagen seen from above
Built in 1642 by Christian IV to establish an astronomical observatory, the Round Tower – Rundetärn – dominates the historic center over which it offers a splendid view from its summit. To access this 36 m high perch, you will not take a staircase but an inclined spiral corridor, a pearl of architecture which allowed horses to climb. At the top of the tower, today we find the oldest observatory in Europe and a library.
Rosenborg Castle and the Crown Jewels
This imposing 18th century building has housed a museum since 1833 where the Danish crown jewels are kept as well as numerous gifts that the royal family received until 1696. The most impressive room of the castle is certainly the large village hall and its coronation throne made entirely of ivory. An essential visit to discover the history of Denmark and its sovereigns.
Discover Danish design
Denmark and design go hand in hand and, as the country's capital, Copenhagen is no exception! The Danish Design Museum and its collection from Asia and Europe, with an emphasis on Denmark, offers a great overview of remarkable objects. To give a Scandinavian touch to your interior, don't forget to visit the city's different concept stores: real gems for all decoration enthusiasts!
Nyhavn, postcard from Copenhagen
If we had to remember one image of Copenhagen, it would be that of Nyhavn , or the new port. A former sailor's quarter, it has today become one of the most photographed places for visitors and for good reason: its brightly colored houses on the edge of the canal form a delightful landscape. Summer and winter, people come to Nyhavn to have a drink on the terrace and watch the boats coming and going around the town and port.
The Little Mermaid statue, between dream and melancholy
Symbol of Copenhagen, the Little Mermaid statue is located on the port, in Churchill Park. Every day, many visitors gather around this work by Edvard Eriksen sculpted in 1923. The artist is said to have been inspired by his mistress Ellen Price for the face, and his wife for the body of the mermaid. Often mutilated, the statue has lost its head twice and once an arm: could this be an explanation for its melancholy look?
Christiania, a unique neighborhood
Created in 1971, Christiania is a “free city” and a unique libertarian social experiment. This alternative community obeys its own rules, it is self-managed. Open to all, Christiania is a temple of street art and bric-a-brac, you have to visit it several times and go beyond its main street to grasp its unique and marginal atmosphere, testimony to a real desire to create a new society.
Source: websites