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Irene Clunie, Short Break Specialist

"Copenhagen is a pretty city, full of brightly coloured buildings and compact enough to explore in just a couple of days. A canal tour is the perfect way to get your bearings and to catch a glimpse of the famous Little Mermaid. Pleasure seekers can find all the fun of the fair at Tivoli Gardens, the world’s second oldest amusement park, which marries exciting rides with magical fountains, tranquil lakes and colourful flower beds, and beer lovers can while away a sunny afternoon in the beer gardens at the Heineken Brewery."

Copenhagen at a glance

A cosy city full of pretty canals, cobbled squares and a skyline full of spires, Copenhagen is a clean city break destination offering a slower pace and friendly atmosphere.

Founded as a Viking fishing village in the 10th century, Copenhagen grew to become the capital city of Denmark. After the devastation of the two major fires, the city underwent redevelopment and a transformation during the Danish Golden Age, dramatically increasing the size of its boundaries.

Today the city is home to a number of notable architectural sites such as the Rococo mansions of Amalienborg, winter home to the Danish royalty, the Copenhagen Opera house set on the island of Holmen and the colourful 17th and 18th century houses lining the Nyhavn canal.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Picturesque setting
  • Historic attractions
  • A peaceful short break

Getting around

The Copenhagen Metro operates throughout the city centre while the S-train ventures farther to the outlying suburbs. There is also a regular and efficient public bus network.

Shopping

Strøget, located in the heart of Copenhagen, is the world’s longest pedestrianized street where you will find many of the city’s most well known stores as well as a large selection of souvenir shops, retail chains and international brand boutiques.

For a special treat, head over to the Royal Copenhagen. Founded in 1775, this porcelain manufacturer is purveyor to the royal Danish court and has gained international respect for its traditional craftsmanship. An exclusive range of dinnerware can be purchased in the shop as well as hand-painted figurines and other specialized gifts.

Dining in Copenhagen

Considered Scandanavia’s culinary capital, Copenhagen is home to innovative cuisine with a recent emphasis on Nordic cooking giving rise to locally sourced ingredients which are of exceptional quality and in season.

Traditional dining is also an important part of the culinary experience in Copenhagen. Historically popular Danish fare such as sausages, sweet pastries and smoked herring are still alive and well in many restaurants.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Smørrebrød – a traditional open sandwich, often made of buttered rye bread and a selection of cold cut meats, fish, or cheese
  • Stegt flæsk – fried, sliced pork served with potatoes topped in a creamy parsley sauce
  • Flødebolle – a water biscuit with a chocolate interior shell containing a marshmallow cream

Osprey Holidays top tips

Enjoy an illuminated dinner in Tivoli Gardens. Dine in traditional Danish restaurants or on a Spanish Galleon floating on the lake! The lights and atmosphere make the night times in Tivoli all the more special! Tivoli is open May to mid September and again just before Christmas.

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Copenhagen designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Copenhagen hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Population 559,440
Languages Danish
Currency Danish Kroner
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

Denmark is the happiest nation in the world according to the 2013 World Happiness Report

Distance from airports
Kastrup 8 km
Railway stations
Copenhagen Central Station

Things to do in Copenhagen

  • The Little Mermaid: The small unprepossessing statue that is Copenhagen’s most famous symbol.
  • Tivoli Gardens: A fairytale amusement park with plenty of history and tradition – lots of fun to visit  any time of the year.
  • Amalienborg Palace: Tour round a selection of the Royal chambers at the Queen’s winter residence.
  • National Museum: A vibrant depiction of Denmark’s history, housed in a building originally built for King Frederik V in 1746. Strøget The centre of Copenhagen’s shopping district and the world’s longest pedestrian street.

Tours and Excursions

Copenhagen Canal Tour

This guided boat tour departs from Copenhagen’s beautiful harbour area and cruises through idyllic canals. You will pass beautiful churches, castles and listed buildings and learn about some of the city’s best-known sights such as Amalienborg Castle, the Opera House and the Little Mermaid.

Tivoli Gardens

Purchase your entrance to the world’s second oldest amusement park in advance and exchange your voucher at the ticket booth. Tivoli Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s most famous attractions and offers something for all ages, including exciting rides, gourmet food, green spaces and beautiful light displays.

Castle Tour of North Zealand

Visit Denmark’s most famous castles; Frederiksborg, situated on three islets in the middle of a lake surrounded by beautiful formal gardens, and Kronborg that stands at the seaward approach to the Oresund Sound and is best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The picturesque route offers stunning views of the Oresund Strait with the Swedish coast beyond.

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.