Holidays in Copenhagen: what do I have to know

What to do in Copenhagen to soak up the city's atmosphere?

Discover these three must-see sights that will immerse you in the atmosphere of Copenhagen immediately.

 

The little Mermaid

 

The Little Mermaid Copenhagen is a true symbol that intrigues. This work by Edvard Eriksen on the Langelinje quay in the Danish capital's harbour seems to welcome newcomers. It is a bronze statue of the protagonist of the famous fairy tale The Little Sir written in 1887 by the Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen. The latter is sitting on a rock, with a lost look. It pays tribute to the author and represents the strong link between the Danes and the sea. It was in 1913 that Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of the Carlsberg breweries, offered it to the city. He had originally commissioned Edvard Eriksen after he had been seduced by the dancer Ellen Price, who was performing in a ballet inspired by the fairy tale. Whether on foot or by boat, don't miss this small 1.25m statue!

 

Rundetårn aka the Round Tower

Located in the old Latin Quarter, Copenhagen's Round Tower (also known as Rundetårn) is a building you won't want to miss. It was built in 1642 by decision of King Christian IV. He wanted to confirm the country's position in the world of astronomy and to continue the research work of the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe. The astronomical observatory (the oldest active observatory in Europe), a university library (now used as an exhibition and concert hall) and the Trinitatis church are all located here. After climbing the steps of its 209-metre-long spiral ramp, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Copenhagen from the observation platform. Its 35 mètres height offers indeed the most beautiful view of the city.

 

The Tivoli Gardens

The Tivoli Gardens is not only an amusement park but also and above all a historical place in the centre of Copenhagen. Opened more than 150 years ago, in 1843 to be exact, it consists of various manners and attractions but also offers concerts and events. The gardens create a magical, festive atmosphere that will undoubtedly make you feel like a child again. When you go here, you will follow in the footsteps of Hans Christian Andersen, the author of many tales, including The Little Sirène. Was he inspired by it? That's certainly the case with the first Disney park in the United States.

The park also accumulates records since it contains the largest aquarium in Europe, one of the largest carousels in the world, and is one of the most visited parks in Europe. Finally, if you are visiting Tivoli Gardens with your family, the best times to visit are during the end of year festivities and the two weeks around the Halloween celebrations. You can admire the decorations and be amazed by the illuminations. The park also offers extra attractions for the occasion. You can also watch fireworks at the end of the year and during the summer.

Finally, keep the fun going with a trip to the Copenhagen Opera. It opened in 2005 and is located on the Docks, it was designed by architect Henning Larsen.

 

What are the districts of Copenhagen not to be missed?

During your stay in Copenhagen, don't miss these two must-see districts: Nyhavn and Christiania. Here's an overview of what's in store for you.

 

The Nyhavn district

Nyhavn (its name means "new harbour") is an iconic district of Copenhagen. Its history began in the second half of the 17th century, after the king of the time, Christian V, gave the residences to the sailors. However, the history of the canal that runs through it goes back even further, to the 12th century, when it was dug to allow goods to pass through the city. Today, it is here that you will find the charming, colourful canal-side buildings. Residences, shops, restaurants and bars are nestled in these houses and since the 1980s Nyhavn has been one of the liveliest areas in the capital. When the weather is nice, you will enjoy sipping a cocktail on the terrace, while when the weather is cooler, you will cover yourself with a blanket while sipping a hot drink.

 

What are the Copenhagen landmarks to visit?

Follow in the footsteps of royalty by visiting these four castles built in Copenhagen.

 

The Christiansborg Palace

The Christiansborg Palace, in the heart of the city on Slotsholmen, is home to the Danish Parliament. Behind its imposing facade and typical Danish 18th century architecture, you will find a lot to uncover. Once the main residence of the royal family, it now has a central place in the Danish kingdom. It also houses the Supreme Court, the Prime Minister's Office and the Royal Reception Rooms, where official events are held. You can enjoy a guided tour of the courtroom where the country's monarchs are crowned and the tapestries in the Great Hall where Danish history is depicted. Take the opportunity to visit the royal court, the Court Theatre and the ruins of the first palace.

 

The Amalienborg Palace

The Amalienborg Palace is the residence of the Danish royal family. It was the result of a wish of King Frederik V that the place was given a new name at the end of the 18th century. His wish was to commemorate the tercentenary of the Oldenburg dynasty's accession to the Danish throne. It became the official residence of the royal family after the destruction of Christiansborg Palace in a fire. During your visit, you can see the study of King Christian IX, his wife's sitting room, the study of Brother Frederic VIII and that of Christian X. You can also admire a collection of costumes and jewels. Finally, don't miss a viewing of the guard's re-enactment.

 

The Rosenborg Castle

The Rosenborg Castle (also called Rosenborg Slot) was built between 1606 and 1634 on the orders of King Christian IV. His original wish was to build a holiday castle in the countryside (only two kilometres from Christiansborg Castle). Although it is now in the Danish capital, the castle was originally outside the city walls. You can follow in the footsteps of Christian IV and his children as you stroll freely between the moat and the large lake. You can also refresh yourself on the terrace of the cafe.

 

The Frederiksberg Palace

The Frederiksberg Palace is a former royal residence now converted into a military academy. The building is not open to the public, but you can enjoy the large park surrounding it. You will also see one of Copenhagen's most exclusive neighbourhoods.

 

When to go to Copenhagen?

In Copenhagen, the weather is best between May and September. Its oceanic climate means that rainfall is frequent. Winter is very cold, and temperatures are at their lowest in February (around zero degrees Celsius). In the summer, even if the days are generally marked by a few showers, the temperatures become milder. This is probably why July and August are the most popular months for travellers. If you travel to Copenhagen in the spring, you will feel the weather getting better as the days go by. Finally, remember to wrap up if you visit the Danish capital in autumn.

 

Where to stay in Copenhagen?

 

 

Now that you know what the must-see tours are, you're probably wondering what VeryChic Copenhagen's private sales have to offer. Here's a look at what they have to offer:

• A boutique hotel ideally located in the image of the First Hotel Twentyseven in Copenhagen, Denmark. Just a few hundred metres from Tivoli Gardens, you will find this aesthetically pleasing Scandinavian design address.
• A spa hotel in Copenhagen to recover from all your sightseeing without the need to make any effort. This way you can make your city break feel rejuvenating and fill up on experiences without worrying about getting too tired.
• Feel at home in a Mayfair Hotel. Its Scandinavian atmosphere and design will immerse you in a true Hygge atmosphere, between good mood and warmth.
• A cheap hotel in Copenhagen thanks to our selection of addresses - 50% off or more. You will be sure to enjoy the best deals for your trip, but always in extraordinary addresses selected with care.