24 Hours in Copenhagen

24 hours does not really give you a lot of time to explore anywhere. Even in a compact city such as Copenhagen you will have to plan if you want to see the sights. Such a plan should have a spare minute or two to devour a selection of Danish pastries and Smorresbrød! With this in mind, I decided to put together a guide to 24 hours in Copenhagen for you lovely people..

Breakfast

Assuming you are already in the city, start the day with a spot of breakfast. Pick up a traditional Smorresbrød (open sandwich) for an authentic Danish start. However, if you fancy something sweeter, a Danish pastry drizzled with cinnamon and icing (because you can never have enough!) is perfect. Either way, find yourself a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the scenic surroundings whilst sleepy Copenhagen wakes up.

How to Spend your Morning

Fashionistas and shopaholics may opt for a morning browsing the shops along Strøget and its charming side streets. However, the culture vultures amongst you should make your way to Kastellet. This beautifully preserved fortress, constructed in the shape of a star, nowadays mainly serves as a public park. Having said that, the historic site does still house a number of buildings in the centre. This includes a church, soldier barracks, as well as a windmill.

Once you have had a peaceful stroll through the grounds, be sure to head to the Langelinie waterfront promenade. You shoud then find one of Copenhagen’s most iconic tourist sites; the one-and-only Little Mermaid. This is originally based upon the fairy tale of the same name by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. The small and unimposing bronze statue is an icon and has been a major tourist attraction since 1913. Getting there as early as possible will (hopefully?) mean beating the crowds and the coach-loads of tourists. Hopefully, this should allow you to see the lovely lady herself in all her glory.

Around Midday

Continue along the waterfront making your way towards Amalienborg Palace. This is the official winter residence of the Danish Royal Family. Rather unusually, the Palace consists of four identical buildings with classic façades around an octagonal courtyard. In the square’s centre, is a monumental statue of Amalienborg’s founder King Frederick V proudly sat upon a magnificent horse. If you get your timings right you may be lucky enough to witness the splendid Changing of the Guards ceremony. This takes place at noon each day. If you miss it, make do with a photo of the Royal guards in their striking uniforms.

From Amalienborg, take a short detour to the beautiful rococo Frederik’s Kirke. This is commonly known as the ‘Marble Church’ – any guesses why?

After being in a world of rococo splendour, you should spend the next part of your 24 hours in Copenhagen at Kongens Nytorv (King’s New Square). In my opinion, this is the real epicentre of the old city. It was constructed for the King in 1908. However, nowadays the square is home to a variety of important establishments. You can find the Royal Theatre, the D’Angleterre Hotel and the Charlottenborg Academy here. From Kongens Nytorv (or on your way there) you are just a stone’s throw away from one of the most beautiful (and perhaps touristy) parts of the city; the colourful Nyhavn.

No trip to Copenhagen is complete without a visit to the historic commercial port. This is where ships from all across the world would dock and deliver their goods to the Danish merchants. In the present day, the beautiful old buildings have been renovated and now contain a mix of classy restaurants and (expensive) watering holes. Nyhavn is a wonderful place to stop for a drink or a bite to eat. You should take time to relax and enjoy the laid back atmosphere, jazz music and delicious food.

Early Afternoon

If (like me) you are more budget-orientated, make your way to Torvehallerne near Nørreport where you can pick up all sorts of goodies. I would highly recommend Gorms for an oh-so-Danish slice of pizza or GRØD which offers an interesting take on porridge. Either eat in or take out. Personally, with the Kongens Have (Kings Garden), Botanisk Have (Botanical Gardens) and the Ørstedparken nearby, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to a green place to enjoy your lunch.

After you have eaten lunch, you should explore the inner city’s streets by foot. First, head to Kultorvet, the Rundetaarn (which provides great views) and Christiansborg Slot (the Danish Parliament building) but also be sure to wander through the smaller side streets, you are bound to find charming squares and pretty buildings hidden from the main tourist trail.

Late Afternoon

With the day slowly drawing to a close, and still with so many things to do, it is time to make a decision. If you’re feeling arty and alternative, head across to Christianshavn on the Amager island. Founded in the early 17th century, the extension of the city was originally laid out and intended for the privileged merchants. Make sure you visit the Church of Our Saviour. If you’re feeling brave, climb it’s tower and the spiral (exterior) staircase. In my opinion, you will get the best views across Copenhagen, the striking Opera House, Paper Island (home to Copenhagen’s street food scene}, and of course Freetown Christiania. Trust me, it is quite an experience!

Evening

If you are visiting the city in spring or summer, you simply cannot miss an evening at Tivoli Gardens. Founded in 1843, the amusement park and pleasure gardens have become a national treasure and an international attraction. Fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen visited many times, as did Walt Disney and many other celebrities, each and every one of whom fell in love with the gardens. The wonderful thing about Tivoli is that there is something for everyone, young and old. The Gardens are beautiful and you’ll see exotic architecture, historic buildings and fun rides scattered throughout. I would suggest timing your visit for the early evening so you can enjoy Tivoli just as the thousands of twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere, unique to anything you will have experienced before. If you are feeling peckish, you can also enjoy a lovely meal within the gardens (and not too expensive!).

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