Copenhagen, Denmark, is a beautiful city with many things to do. Read recommendations involving Nyhavn, Christiania, Tivoli Gardens and more.
We traveled to Copenhagen, Denmark, for a quick two-night stay. It was too short of a visit, but we made the most of it!
We stayed at the beautiful AC Hotel Bella Sky. The hotel was located right next to a metro stop which took us wherever we pleased with ease. It also had a sky bar on the top floor with impressive views and a spa on the ground level with hot and cold pools, a steam room and a sauna.
Copenhagen was a blast! There wasn’t a dull moment during our visit. Here are some of our recommendations.
Nyhavn
Nyhavn, or New Harbor, is home to these iconic colorful buildings. This 17th-century harbor was once a busy commercial port. Today, it is a relaxing waterfront that provides a beautiful setting of bright 17th- and 18th-century buildings, restaurants and cafes.
Several old wooden ships are on display in the harbor. I loved the vibe here. Though it might be a pricier spot for a meal or a drink, it’s worth it to sit and enjoy the area and the adorable view.
Christianshavn
Also worth a visit is Christianshavn, a harbor just as cute as Nyhavn. We strolled through Christianshavn on our way to the Copenhagen Street Food Market and felt inclined to stop and take in the view, along with a few photos.
Free Town Christiania
Christiania is a place unlike any other! It’s a green, car-free, self-proclaimed community originally formed by squatters in old, abandoned military barracks. Interesting houses and interesting people — it’s an escape from reality.
This “free town” does not fall under the jurisdiction of the European Union, so you see some things here that are not legal just outside of the town’s limits, such as a pusher street selling recreational marijuana and other items.
Tivoli Gardens
If you only do one thing in Copenhagen, let this be it. Tivoli Gardens is more than just an amusement park — it’s its own little city, and it’s beautiful!
The park is full of restaurants, shops, rides, fountains, lakes and more. It’s magical to walk through, especially at night when everything lights up and it becomes the most romantic place you’ve ever seen. Photos don’t do it justice.
Take the train to Sweden
We rode the train to Malmö, Sweden, to knock another country off the list. The train ride is only about 30 minutes long, so why not?
Unfortunately, there was a torrential downpour the entire time we were in Malmö and we weren’t dressed for the weather coming from sunny Copenhagen. We purchased an umbrella, but it was so wet and dreary that we were unmotivated to sight-see.
We found a covered spot for a drink in the Lilla Torg (Little Square) and people-watched. Malmö seemed like a fun place to spend a day, perhaps in the future we’ll have the opportunity to go back and see more of it.
Tip: Keep in mind Sweden uses a different currency than Denmark, and while most places accept Danish Krone, you’ll likely get a poor exchange rate and your change will be in Swedish Krona.
Copenhagen Street Food Market
What an amazing experience for the taste buds!
The market is huge and the possibilities seem endless. Tacos, sushi, fried plantains, burgers, coffee, ice cream, curry, Pad Thai… the list goes on! Come here hungry and get several small plates to enjoy. Everything we had was delicious!
Copenhagen is an expensive place to visit but it’s worth every penny. Would we return? Absolutely!
