While the colorful facades over the Nyhavn Canal are a sight to die for, there is so much more to Copenhagen than the serene shimmer of this waterfront. You can look beyond this entertainment district and seek out the diversity of experience, both small and big, to savor the most charming, humanizing aspects of Copenhagen. If you ever get a chance to visit the Denmark Capital, here are the top 5 things you must do while you’re there!
1. Relish in the delights of Tivoli
Tivoli Gardens are a small marvel. Partly a pleasure garden, partly an explosion of imagination, it is the world’s oldest amusement park, and a destination you wish you have heard of before. That being said, it is quite famous around the world, but when you see how captivating it is, you’ll be asking yourself why isn’t it mentioned in the same breath with Disneyland. It has blood-pumping roller coaster rides, overwhelmingly serene landscapes and corners worthy of the most gaudy fairytales. You can spend weeks on end in Tivoli amusement park without ever getting bored, let alone a singular day.
2. Participate in the Copenhagen Marathon
Copenhagen is the city of runners. While the popularity of the running craze booms and vanes around the world, fluctuating according to the latest lifestyle trends, it seems that it never leaves the spotlight in the capital of Denmark. One of the reasons for this is the sheer cultural significance of the Copenhagen Marathon: a 42.2km long stretch of runner’s delight that is going strong since the 1980s. As a matter of fact, it seems that more and more people, including visitors from around the world, partake as part of the essential Copenhagen experience. Even if you are not planning to get involved, pack your lightweight running shoes, just in case! The sheer buzz of positive energy in the air around the marathon might tempt you.
3. Head to the top of the Round Tower
While you are in Copenhagen, you should take time to savor the marvelous cityscape from the beloved vantage point known as the Round Tower. This landmark, originally dubbed the Rundetaarn, was built in the 17th century as possibly the oldest working observatory in the Old Continent. The 36 meters tall structure will lead you, up a spiraling path, to one of the most breathtaking views of any city in the world, let alone the treasure trove of culture and architecture such as Copenhagen. Take your time to soak in the panoramic view of the city and pore over every detail that comes into your view.
4. Immerse yourself in the hippie atmosphere of Christiania
Freetown Christiania will surprise you. The explosion of color and anarchic ambiance will rouse an exhilarating feeling as you prowl through this unbelievable hippie commune. First of all, it is a car-free zone with an eco-friendly mindset. The military barracks were occupied by hippies and covered in an incredibly vivacious kaleidoscope of graffiti. Yes, they also established an independent society, but the area is completely open to the public, while the photos are not allowed. However, if you yearn for free hugs, this is the place for you.
5. Go on a gourmet tour
The Copenhagen cuisine is a story in and of itself. Nordic dishes are mostly organic, made out of ingredients that are locally produced in sustainable conditions, and even if you enjoy the most basic of meals, you are set to revel in the hedonistic cavalcade of meals. Something as simple as black bread and jam will make you squeal with delight, organic chicken with grilled veggies is a must, and you have to try wholegrain Danish pastries, both breads, and cakes!
Conclusion
If you choose to pursue these experiences in Copenhagen, you will have an unforgettable adventure on your hands. There are thousands upon thousands of articles online that wax poetic about the capital of Denmark, but one thing’s for sure: you should not strictly adhere to anyone’s advice. Feel encouraged to carve your path through the ‘uncharted’ experiences in this city on the Øresund Strait. This escapade is all about you and the treasured memories you take home.
