Copenhagen is the starting point for a Baltic cruise, and why we originally had this on our itinerary. We were surprised by how much we enjoyed this friendly city with its medieval sites and modern developments. The northern countries are more expensive than southern European destinations, but good planning can help to defray the cost. Even so, budget more for food and other activities if you really want to enjoy this area.
- Rosenborg Castle
There are actually three excellent castles to visit while in Copenhagen; Amalienborg and Christianborg being the other two, but for us Rosenborg has maintained its renaissance flavour and is an impressive historical and artistic destination, although smaller than the other two. Built in the early 1600`s and home of the former Christian IV, this castle was his summer residence. Grand and imposing, each room is still fully furnished and decorated, something that many of the castles you will see in Europe are not. You can also tour the Royal Danish Treasury while there. The castle is located next to a public park which is a great picnic destination after your tour.
- Tivoli Gardens
I am not a fan of amusement parks so we did not take full advantage of this attraction, but you cannot help but be intrigued by the sights, sounds and smells of what is one of Europe`s finest, open since 1843. A must if you are travelling with children, or even the young at heart.
- Nyhavn
If you have seen photos of Copenhagen you have probably seen Nyhavn, or “new harbour“, a former sailors` quarter. Nyhavn is a row of colourful former warehouses now housing restaurants and hotels. There is lots of places to eat or just sit by the dock with a drink and enjoy a balmy day. The boats moored in this harbour are beautiful sailboats, many restored wooden sloops. From Nyhavn you can hop on one of two offered canal cruises that will take you around the canals and harbour of Copenhagen. They are live narrated and a great way to see much of the city you would otherwise not get to enjoy.
- The Little Mermaid
Almost everyone who goes to Copenhagen makes the trek to see this tiny statute located in the harbour near Kastellet Park. Although a bit further afield it is a nice walk along the waterfront where you will see excellent statues (Gefion Fountain), a tiny Anglican church, and the WWII era Museum of Danish Resistance. Donated in 1909 it is based on the beloved Hans Christian Andersen tale, one much darker than the Disney version and worth a read before your visit.
- National Museum
If you only have time for one museum visit we would recommend the National Museum. It includes an excellent collect of Danish exhibits from prehistoric to modern. I was particularly fascinated by the lure horns. And best of all it is free.