Tips on What To Do in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is filled with attractions that highlight both Danish history and contemporary culture. With numerous castles and religious monuments, the city primarily appeals to travelers who love history; however, Copenhagen boasts plenty of museums, parks and shops that will appeal to almost any interest. Gamblers should note the only casino in the city, the Casino Copenhagen, is connected to the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel and bills itself as "The largest international casino in northern Europe."

Tivoli Gardens

The Tivoli Gardens -- located on the western edge of Indre nearby the Central Train Station -- are by far one of the most popular attractions in Copenhagen. Home to several lush flower gardens, shimmering lakes, several restaurants and cafés, performance venues and even an amusement park, it's no wonder travel writers are quick to sing Tivoli's praises.

• As theme parks go, Tivoli is goofy with a small g. It has an old-time, un-Disneyfied innocence to it. On paper it sounds unbearable, but in practice it's a fun place to spend a little time, especially on a mild summer night." -- Condé Nast Traveler

Sightseeing

Copenhagen is littered with castles, many of which are located in Indre By within walking distance of one another. For a glimpse at the life of Danish Royals, head to Rosenborg Castle where the Crown Jewels are displayed, or to Amalienborg Palace where the royal family currently resides. Other popular palaces (which are not within walking distance of Indre By and most easily accessible by public transportation) include Frederiksberg Castle in the western neighborhood of Frederiksberg, or Kronborg Castle, the setting for Hamlet, which sits north of central Copenhagen.

Sick of ornate palaces? Go to the Slotsholmen district -- just a short walk from Indre By -- where Christiansborg, the seat of today's Danish Parliament, is located. If you wish to experience another side of Danish life, head across the canal to Christiania, a semi-independent colony home to numerous artists who make a living selling crafts on the street.

The city is also filled with museums, showcasing everything from art to the history of the Denmark's role in World War II, which offer the perfect solution to a rainy day. 

• While in Charlottenlund, don't miss the remarkable Ordrupgaard, one of the largest museum collections of French impressionism in Europe outside France." -- Fodor's

Attractions for Kids

After spending some time at the Tivoli Gardens, families with children should head over to Langelinie and say hello to Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) statue, who has been guarding the shores since 1913. Another must-see family attraction is the Copenhagen Zoo -- one of the largest in Europe.  

• Children love the Zoological Gardens, which are home to 3,300 animals and 264 species. The small petting zoo and playground includes cows, horses, rabbits, goats, and hens. The indoor rain forest has butterflies, sloths, alligators, and other tropical creatures." -- Fodor's

Shopping

Denmark is famous for design and craftsmanship, and Copenhagen is littered with stores selling authentic Danish furniture, crystal and porcelain. If it's antiques you're interested in, take a stroll along the Strøget, one of Europe's most renowned shopping streets, which runs directly through Indre By. You can also find many antiques at the numerous flea markets -- such as the Israel Plads Flea Market and the Kongens Nytorv Flea Market -- held throughout the Inner City.

The city is also known for its art galleries, most of which are located across the canal from Inner City in Holmen and Islands Brygge.

• Shopping is another reason visitors show up here, as the city is world famous for its beautifully designed wares for the home, including porcelain by Bing & Grøndahl and Royal Copenhagen and sterling silver by Georg Jensen, among other big names. Strøget remains one of the most fabled shopping streets of Europe." -- Frommer's
• A showcase for world-famous Danish design and craftsmanship, Copenhagen seems to have been designed with shoppers in mind. The best buys are such luxury items as crystal, porcelain, silver, and furs." -- Fodor's