Copenhagen, Denmark has some of the most fascinating locations for sightseeing. From the famous “Little Mermaid” to free-state Christiania, to shopping on Stroget, to the royal Rosenborg Castle, and ending at the beautiful Tivioli Gardens.
“The Little Mermaid” Statue
She was created in 1909 by Hans Christian Andersen. She sits close to the shore of Langelinie. It is important to know that the “Danish Little Mermaid” is not the same as Disney’s version of her. Hans Christian Andersen’s home is also located along the Nyhavn canal. There are tour boats that take you around the Nyhavn canal so you can see many more sights from the water.
Christiania, 30kr
In 1971, Christiania made themselves a “free state” inside Copenhagen. Since it was during the age of the hippie revolution, the government allowed the community to exist as a social experiment. More than 1,000 people reside in the abandoned military camp turning the old buildings into schools and houses. The self-governing Christiania outlawed all drugs, except they turned their heads at the sale of marijuana on “Pusher Street”. They are tax-free and preach about peace and drugs. Visitors are welcome to walk down their streets, shop, and see their way of life. There is talk about shutting Christiania down, but it has not been done due to the government fearing a full-scale riot would break out.
Stroget
Stroget is a pedestrian shopping street, ¾ mile long that runs in the heart of the city between Radhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv, two of Copenhagen’s most visible and busiest places. This is also an excellent place to do your tourist shopping for souvenirs. It is important to note that “Stroget” does not appear on maps, only the following street names do: Frederiksberggade, Nygade, Villelskaftet, Amagertorv, and Ostergade. To see more historical buildings and cozy bars, Vestergade runs parallel to Stroget.
Rosenborg Castle, Adults 50kr/Children 40kr
Located in the center of Copenhagen, the Rosenborg Castle was built in the Renaissance era and was intended to be a summer home for the Royal Family. It houses artifacts from the Danish Royal Family including the crown jewels, family portraits, and the most favorite part of the castle, the Knight’s Hall which includes three silver lions that guards the thrones. Today, the castle still serves as the treasury for royal regalia and jewels. Surrounding the Rosenborg Castle is the King’s Gardens which are a lovely way to spend a warm day walking the grounds enjoyed by both tourists and locals.
Tivoli Gardens, Adults 79kr/Children 40kr/Under 2 free
In 1843, the Tivoli Gardens was transformed to an amusement park. Today, it still remains an amusement park but it also has many restaurants, beer gardens, and throughout the year many concerts and symphonies are held here for free. Tivoli is located across the street from the Central Station. During the evening the atmosphere turns more romantic and the beer gardens become more active. Saturday nights include a firework display at 11:45pm that displays over Tivoli Lake.
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