Copenhagen - Overview
The city of Copenhagen, is the largest city in Denmark being home to 1.8 million people, and covering an area of 88km2. It is both the capital and the main commercial, cultural and historical centre of Denmark, offering a plethora of sights and activities for visitors of all ages.
Copenhagen boasts some stunning historical architecture, which is best viewed in the medieval city area, known as the Middelalderbyen, and in the Frederiksstaden district, where the beautiful Frederik’s church is located. Another iconic building is the Rundetårn, where you can climb up 300 steps to the high observation platform for spectacular views of Copenhagen and its surrounding areas. For some stunning modern architecture visit the futuristic Opera House, on the island of Holmen.
There is plenty to see and do for all the family, and children will enjoy the Bakken and Tivoli Theme Parks, both of which are is set in beautiful forest grounds and have a whole host of rides, including some of the oldest roller-coasters in the country. For a more relaxing experience visit the Copenhagen Zoo, which is home to exotic animals such as elephants, lions and tigers and is one of the oldest and largest Zoos in Europe.
Copenhagen is a great city for shopaholics, offering both unique and exclusive boutiques and more traditional western high street brands. The main shopping area is centred around the Strøget mall, which has some of Copenhagen's high-end fashion stores, and it is one of the largest pedestrian malls in the world. For a more intimate and personal shopping experience check out the narrow streets around Strøget, where tiny boutiques cater to fashion conscious Danes and tourists. For antiques and souvenirs Nørrebro in Ravnsborggade is lined with shops selling collectibles, and it is a great place to find a bargain or two.
The Danes pride themselves on cooking fresh, delicious meals, that are usually both healthy and tasty. Traditional dishes include local products such as potatoes, barley, mushrooms and beetroot along with fresh fish and poultry products. The national Danish dish of ‘Frikadeller’ - meatballs served with cabbage in white sauce - can be found in many of the cities eateries, while many Danes love stewed seasonal fruits and cream for desert. If that doesn't take your fancy then Copenhagen is also home to a large selection of restaurants offering international cuisines such as Indian, Italian and French.
Copenhagen offers its visitors accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from swanky 5 star establishments, to simple guesthouses that provide an economical and comfortable place to stay. For something different why not stay at the Flakfortert, an ancient fortress located on an island 30 minutes away from the mainland.
The region enjoys a mild climate all year round, with temperatures that are on average 5 degrees higher than cities located in the same latitude, due to warm air being pushed up from the Atlantic Gulf Stream. The average low in the winter months is around zero degrees, with snowfall most common from December to February. In the summer months temperatures average around 20 degrees, with 13 hours of sunlight a day.