Copenhagen - Culture

Danish Flag

Copenhagen is a city with much to offer. So much, in fact, that it would be difficult to cover it all in just one visit. The sights of Copenhagen rival those of other large European cities, but the pace here is much more relaxed. The Danish people are fairly laid-back and to get a real feel for life here you should take it easy. Don't rush things and don't try to see all the sights in a weekend. I suggest that you pick a couple of things that really interest you and leave the rest for another time. If for no other reason, it will give you an excuse to return to this beautiful city.

Museums

Copenhagen is home to museums of many different types. There are cultural, historical, and natural museums as well as museums of art and design. If you plan to visit many of these museums you may want to purchase a Copenhagen Card. This is a ticket for unlimited rail travel in and around Copenhagen and includes admission to many museums. It is available at rail stations, tourist offices and travel agencies. For a complete list and description of Copenhagen museums see Copenhagen Now or Denmark Today. Denmark Today also lists all the museums that take part in the Copenhagen Card deal. One more tip- The National Museum, which normally costs Dkr 30, is free on Wednesdays.

Canal Tour

Sightseeing

There are many options for sightseeing in Copenhagen. You may choose to take part in one of many guided tours. You may also pick up brochures for touring on your own by foot, bus or rail. These are available at tourist information offices throughout the city. One of these offices is located downstairs at the Central Station, which is a great place to start. Another option is to take a canal boat tour. There are two companies operating tours. Tours leave from Gammel Strand and Nyhavn every half hour. Be warned though, one of the tours does not include a narration of the sights you are seeing so make sure you ask for the correct tour.

One sight on every tourist's list is the Little Mermaid. She sits on the edge of the harbour and has been known to lose her head on occasion. Someone has stolen her head more than once. The last time was in 1997, but she is now whole again. Every canal tour and most others will include her on the itinerary.

Hans Christian Anderson was a Danish writer of fairy tales in the 19th Century. His adopted city, Copenhagen, erected a statue of one of his most beloved characters, the little Mermaid, at the entrance of the harbour. Made of cast bronze, the stature reflects the Danish love of simple, fluid line and form.

Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is another must see in Copenhagen. This where the crown jewels are kept and displayed. There is a wonderful little park in front of the castle. You may want to plan a picnic. An even larger and more elegant Castle to visit is the royal palace Amalienborg. There is a regularly scheduled changing of the guard which is quite entertaining.