On your first visit to Copenhagen, weave through the city on a leisurely canal tour and admire Rococo interiors at Amalienborg Palace, winter home of the Danish royal family. If you're returning for more, visit the unique hippy free state of Christiania, or learn about the history of Copenhagen's best-known export at the Carlsberg Brewery.
Copenhagen's harbour divides the city in two. The city centre hugs the western shore and is home to the Parliament, 17th-century Amalienborg Palace, and lots of bustling quayside cafes. For some shopping therapy, start on Strøget, Copenhagen's main retail street. Take in some fresh air at central Tivoli Gardens and keep the kids entertained at its historic amusement park. Across the water in Christianshavn, you'll find the modern Opera House. Get tickets to a world-class performance and make a night of it with a gourmet meal of freshly caught local seafood. Head west to trendy Vesterbro, crammed with bars, pubs and great little places to pick up a pølser hot dog, adored by the Danes.
Stroll north along the waterside to the peaceful grounds of 17th-century Kastellet castle. Shops and souvenir stands in the area are emblazoned with the symbol of Copenhagen's unofficial mascot, the Little Mermaid, monument to Hans Christian Andersen's best-known fairytale heroine. Work your way back into the city via Amalienborg Palace with its octagonal courtyard. The classical 18th-century National Museum has extensive exhibits on the history of the Danes, right from the pre-historic era. In the evening, relax at an elegant waterside restaurant or indulge in culture at the Opera House.
Discover why Scandinavian design is world famous in the shops of Vesterbro. Whether you want smart cocktails or just a pint of locally brewed Carlsberg, this is the place to head to after dark. Once you've sampled the local beer, pay a visit to the Carlsberg Brewery, a short train ride from the centre. Catch a bus to an alternative lifestyle in the hippy enclave of Christiania. If you want to head further afield, hop on a train to Sweden across the striking Øresund Bridge.
Scandinavia's largest airport, Copenhagen Airport Kastrup flies over 21 million passengers a year from its four modern, stylish terminals. The airport is a 15-minute train or Metro ride from central Copenhagen.
