Copenhagen - Meaning 'Merchant's Harbor'

Scandinavian capitals (Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm) are all set by the water giving them a unique atmosphere. Copenhagen – the city of canals and bicycles. Oslo set against a beautiful fjord. Stockholm surrounded by many islands. They all have something unique to offer.

Copenhagen is one of those exceptional cities, the more time you spend there the more you like it. The more you explore it outside the touristy area the more you appreciate it as a city.

Copenhagen’s inner city, referred to as the medieval city, is not concentrated within a small area and thanks to that you as a tourist don’t feel being overwhelmed by other tourists (which you can feel in the old town of Stockholm). You can still visit a few historical places within a walking distance in one day.

Nyhavn, a 17^th century waterfront lined by brightly colored townhouses, is a popular tourist destination. Rosenborg Castle and Christiansborg Palace are worth visiting and are located a short walkable distance from Nyhavn. You just continue straight on Gothersgade St, west from Nyhavn to reach Rosenborg Castle. Christiansborg Palace is south of Nyhavn.

The name of Copenhagen, meaning “merchants’ harbor,” reflects the city’s origin as a harbor and place of commerce. In the Middle Ages as the town became more prominent, it was repeatedly attacked by the Hanseatic League (a commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and their market towns). In the late early 17^th century, Copenhagen had dramatic growth as a city, also erecting an important building - Borsen, the stock exchange. In the early 19^th century, Copenhagen experienced a period of intense cultural creativity known as the Danish Golden Age.

Copenhagen is recognized as one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world. The Danes consider themselves the happiest people in the world. 

What to see in Copenhagen?

   1.      Nyhavn – a 17^th century waterfront canal lined by brightly colored townhouses. The canal harbors many historical wooden ships.

   2.      Rosenborg Castle – was built by Christian IV at the beginning of the 1600s and became his favorite residence. The royal lineage ends with Frederik VII, but the royal journey continues at Amalienborg Palace.

   3.      Christianborg Palace – the Queen still uses large parts of the palace today. The tour includes the Royal Rooms, Chapel, Kitchen, underground Ruins, and Stables. The tower offers the view of the city and it is free to access the tower.

   4.      Amalienborg Palace – is famous for its Royal Guard and you can experience the changing of the guards at noon. Amalienborg Museum presents the private interiors of the most recent kings and queens, stretching back 150 years.

   5.      National Museum of Denmark – Denmark’s largest museum of cultural history, including exhibitions from the Stone Age, the Viking Age, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and Modern Danish History.

  6.      Little Mermaid – world famous statue turned 100 years in 2013. It is based on the fairy tale of the same name by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. It is located at Langelinie Park’s promenade.

  7.      Frederiksberg is a fashionable part of Copenhagen with excellent cafes. It is also a green oasis with Frederiksberg Gardens overlooked by Frederiksberg Palace sitting on top of Frederiksberg Hill. The palace dates back to the early 1700’s.

  8.      Picturesque streets with its canals – head towards Christiania on the island across from historic district.

Where to stay?

Copenhagen is a pretty expensive city. If you’re willing to take a bus, First Copenhagen at Molestien 11 is a good option.

Where to go from Copenhagen?

  1.      North Zealand – it is north of Copenhagen, a 30 minute train ride. The area is full of famous castles including Frederiksborg Castle – splendidly furnished Renaissance palace, Kronborg Castle – known for setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

  2.      Odense – hometown of Hans Christian Andersen and Egeskov Castle. From Kastrup Airport take train directly to Odense, about 2hrs.

  3.      Den Gamle By – is the Old Town of Aarhus where the history comes alive. It spans three decades, going back to the time of Hans Christian Andersen in 1864. You can get there by bus http://www.rejseplanen.dk/bin/query.exe/en  

  4.      Oslo, Norway – by ferry www.aferry.com

  5.   Stockholm, Sweden – by SJ High-Speed train http://www.eurail.com/europe-by-train/high-speed-trains/sj