Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Explore Copenhagen by Bike

Two wheels are better than two feet when it comes to exploring Copenhagen. This Danish capital was named the world's most bike-friendly city, with over 60% of its residents commuting by bicycle daily. Cobblestone streets and pedestrian zones make Copenhagen an ideal place to experience on a bike. Rent one for a few hours or a full day to truly see the city as the locals do.

Glide along the harborfront and take in the colorful facades of Nyhavn. Built in the 17th century, this picturesque canal is lined with restaurants and bars housed in gabled townhouses. Stop for an Instagram moment on the footbridge over the canal. Then continue north to check out The Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen's most famous landmark.

Next, head inland to the sprawling Kongens Have (King's Garden). Dating back to the early 1600s, this royal park offers peace and tranquility amid the bustling city. Wander through lush gardens and around scenic lakes. Don't miss the romantic 19th century Rosenborg Castle located within the park grounds.

Cruise through the diverse Nørrebro neighborhood, home to immigrants from Turkey, Pakistan, and the Middle East. The tantalizing smells of shawarma and falafel will make your stomach grumble. Be sure to stop for an authentic and affordable Middle Eastern meal.

No cycling tour of Copenhagen is complete without seeing the hippie enclave of Christiania. Ride over the bridge to this unique car-free neighborhood with its own set of laws. Local artisans sell their handicrafts in little stalls while street musicians provide a chilled-out soundtrack.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Wander the Colorful Streets of Nyhavn

With its picturesque row houses sporting brightly painted facades in shades of yellow, blue, and red, Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen's most Instagrammable spots. Translating to "New Harbor," this vibrant canal was constructed in the 17th century to connect Kongens Nytorv (King's Square) with the sea. Back then, Nyhavn was full of seedy taverns frequented by rough sailors just off their ships. Today, the restored townhouses lining the quays have been transformed into trendy cafes and restaurants.

Wandering down Nyhavn allows you to step back in time. Gaze up at the gabled facades and imagine what life was like centuries ago when Danish ships headed off to trade and plunder around the world. Notice the wooden beams on the oldest townhouses that allowed goods to be hoisted up into storage. Poke your head into cozy Danish pubs where locals gather to chat over pints of beer.

While the colorful buildings are the main draw, don't miss out on the entertainment along the quays. Street musicians strum acoustic guitars and violinists saw out classical melodies, serenading passersby. Artists sit at easels painting scenes of the canal while buskers perform everything from miming acts to magic tricks. You can browse through stalls selling arts, crafts, and knick-knacks.

On sunny days, the outdoor patios lining the waterfront fill up fast. Grab an open-air table for people watching and boat spotting. From here, you'll have a front row view when historic sailing ships glide through the harbor. Keep an eye out for The Elephant, a blue and white gaff cutter built in 1903 that still offers scenic cruises.

Indulge in classic Danish open-faced sandwiches known as smørrebrød while sipping local beer. Seafood is popular given the canal's harborfront location. Try the Sildesyltet, rye bread topped with pickled herring, egg, shrimp, and dill. For a sweet treat, don't miss the kanelsnegle, a crunchy cinnamon roll slathered in frosting.

At the footbridge over the canal, pause to capture that quintessential Nyhavn photo. The postcard view showcases the colorful buildings lining the curve of the quay with sailing boats and swans in the foreground. Come back at night when twinkling strings of lights create a magical atmosphere. The colors pop even more against the dark water.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Relax in the Botanical Garden

After whizzing around Copenhagen on two wheels, it's time to slow down and decompress amid nature at the Botanical Garden. Spread across 10 hectares adjacent to the university, this oasis in the city center provides an escape from the hustle and bustle outside. As you meander along curved pathways, all thoughts of deadlines and to-do lists will fade away. First established in 1600, the Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most important gardens in Denmark. Today, it contains over 13,000 different plant species from around the world.

One of the highlights is the 19th century Palm House, a soaring glass structure modeled after London’s Crystal Palace. Step inside this humid hothouse filled with exotic palms and plants from the tropics. Winding pathways lead you through lush greenery and past gurgling fountains. It feels worlds away from the city right outside. Don’t miss the giant waterlily, Victoria Amazonica, with leaves over six feet wide that can support the weight of a small child!

For a dose of Danish history, visit the old University Library built in 1861 complete with a moat and drawbridge. This neo-Gothic building rising from the garden looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Today, it houses a small museum about the Botanical Garden's history and plant conservation efforts. The meticulously tended grounds nearby include an alpine rockery, herb garden, and section for Mediterranean vegetation.

In the Japanese Garden, stroll under cherry trees and take in the serene koi ponds. Find a bench beside the traditional tea house to meditate to the soothing sounds of water flowing from stone fountains. Visit the Chinese Pavilion surrounded by native Asian plant species like rhododendrons, primroses, and peonies. Climb up the winding tower for panoramic views across the park.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Visit Christiania, the Freestate of Copenhagen

Tucked away in the Christianshavn neighborhood, Christiania is one of Copenhagen’s quirkiest and most controversial attractions. This unique neighborhood of about 1,000 residents has dubbed itself the “Freetown of Christiania”, functioning as an autonomous anarchist community since its founding by squatters in 1971. Though technically still part of Denmark, Christiania has its own rules, independent economy, and self-governing citizens. Visiting is like stepping into another world where the weird and wonderful are embraced.

Wandering the car-free streets, you’ll encounter avantgarde art installations, impromptu jam sessions, and the scent of cannabis wafting through the air. Street art in the form of murals and graffiti covers the buildings in colorful designs. Buskers play guitar on street corners while vendors sell handmade goods that wouldn’t be allowed outside Christiania’s borders. There's a laidback atmosphere here where everyone seems to follow the commune's motto of “to thine self be true”.

One of Christiania's main drags is Pusher Street, where hash and marijuana were openly sold until 2004 when the stalls were (mostly) shut down. Today, you're still likely to spot dealers carrying signboards advertising "hash" and "weed". While cannabis has been decriminalized in Denmark, it remains illegal in Christiania, so consuming or purchasing is not without risks. Visitors are advised to avoid photographing dealers and their wares.

Those seeking a deeper understanding of the experimental community can join a guided tour of Christiania. Local residents will take you to highlights like the Von Falanster garden with its imaginative sculptures fashioned from recycled materials. You'll also visit thecompound's historic windmill and see workshops where glassblowers and blacksmiths ply their crafts. Tours provide insight into what day-to-day life is like in this alternative society.

Art fans won't want to missGalleri G, an exhibit space showcasing works created by Christiania's thriving community of resident artists. The gallery sits alongside the tranquil Prinsessegadekanalen canal fringed with weeping willows. Inside you can browse modern art, photography, ceramics, and mixed media pieces. Many artworks cleverly incorporate recycled materials and objects in creative ways.

Those wanting to grab a bite in Christiania can stop by Morgenstedet, an organic vegetarian cafe using fresh ingredients from the commune's gardens. The plant-based menu includes salads, sandwiches, and soups served in a laidback bohemian setting. Grønsagen is another popular eatery dishing up vegan and vegetarian fare with an emphasis on sustainability. Try the delicious bean burgers or falafel plate.

No visit to Christiania is complete without seeing the iconic Freetown Christiania sign at the main entrance on Prinsessegade. The composite photograph shows young residents holding hands beneath the sign which declares (in Danish) “You are now leaving the EU". It symbolizes Christiania's stance as an autonomous zone. Visitors often pause here for photo ops to commemorate their visit to Copenhagen's micronation.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Indulge in Smørrebrød, the Famous Danish Open-Faced Sandwiches

No visit to Denmark is complete without indulging in the quintessential Danish delicacy known as smørrebrød. Translating to “butter bread,” these open-faced sandwiches showcase the creativity of Danish cuisine. Rye bread forms the base and each smørrebrød is then layered with various tasty toppings, often including fish, meat, cheese, and vegetables. It’s a study in textures, colors, and complementary flavors all arranged in an edible work of art.

Traditionally, a meal would begin with an aquavit or beer followed by multiple rounds of smørrebrød progressing from lighter to heavier toppings as you go. There are thousands of potential combinations, which is part of the appeal. Smørrebrød makes the most of local ingredients like pickled herring, smoked salmon, roast beef, and Havarti cheese. Expect elegantly composed, almost too-pretty-to-eat creations at classic restaurants like Schønnemann in the Latin Quarter.

Those eager to sample smørrebrød where it was born can visit Restaurant No. 2, said to be the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Copenhagen. Tuck into traditional open-faced sandwiches in a charming 150-year-old setting near Christiansborg Palace. Menu standouts include the Laksemad, a rye base topped with smoked salmon, remoulade, cucumbers, lemon, and chives.

For a modern twist, head to Hallernes Smørrebrød in the Torvehallerne market. The creative smørrebrød here combine flavors in unexpected ways, like the fried chicken topped with kimchi and shiitake mushrooms. The Astroboy features mouthwatering pulled pork with apple relish, parmesan, and garlic cream.

Those seeking an authentic Danish experience can learn to make smørrebrød themselves through classes at local market halls or Airbnb experiences. As you layer ingredients atop the dark rye bread, you’ll gain insight into why smørrebrød is to Danes what burgers are to Americans – a beloved national dish. Expect a hands-on tutorial in slicing, seasoning, and artfully arranging your toppings. Don’t forget the very generous slathering of butter – hence the name “butter bread”.

While some upscale restaurants treat smørrebrød as haute cuisine, everyday Danes enjoy simpler versions on a typical workday. Office workers pack smørrebrød for lunch or grab takeaway sandwiches from bakeries to eat al fresco. Affordable smørrebrød can be found at grocery stores and cafes. Try options like the traditional Dyrlægens Natmad featuring liver pâté, salty bacon, mushrooms, and cucumber pickles atop rye.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - See the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace

A highlight of any visit to Copenhagen is witnessing the daily changing of the guard ceremony at the royal residence, Amalienborg Palace. This splendid Rococo palace has been home to the Danish royal family since 1794. The changing of the guard ritual dates back centuries and draws crowds of visitors eager to observe the pomp and circumstance surrounding this tradition.

The ceremony takes place every day at noon sharp in the cobblestone palace square. Visitors will want to arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot. As the town hall bells begin to chime noon, members of the Royal Guard detachment emerge from their barracks. Clad in bearskin hats and royal blue uniforms, they march with precision into formation in the center of the square.

What follows is a ceremonial exchange where the replacement guard relieves the sitting guard of their duties protecting the queen and royal family. It is conducted with military flair, including shouted commands and synchronized rifle movements. The two guards salute each other before crossing the square. Then the old guard marches back to the barracks while the new guard takes up positions around the perimeter.

The entire ceremony only lasts about 15 minutes but provides a memorable glimpse into Denmark’s regal history. Beyond the pageantry, it underscores how the royal family are still dear to the Danish people. Visitors describe feeling a swell of pride watching the ritual, as if they have been transported back through centuries of tradition.

The changing of the guard offers a rare opportunity to see the stoic Royal Life Guards up close. Their uniforms are resplendent with white crossbelts and decorative shoulder straps. Muskets glint in the sunlight as they are spun and stamped into the ground in unison. Watching their synchronized march steps and rifle twirls will make you appreciate the intense training required for ceremonial guard duty.

The backdrop of the grand Amalienborg Palace makes the ceremony even more photogenic. Its creamy rococo facade featuring four identical wings interlinked by colonnades is considered one of Europe’s finest palatial structures. If you face the palace, be sure to look right to see an equestrian statue of King Frederick V who originally commissioned the site.

After the ceremony concludes, consider taking a tour of the palace's interior. Exquisite rooms can be visited including the Great Hall with ceiling frescoes and a 200-year-old endowed clock. Those wanting to further immerse themselves in Danish history can also tour the underground museum tracing Amalienborg's origins and learning about previous royal residents.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Marvel at the Architecture of Frederik's Church

Rising majestically above Copenhagen, the architectural treasure that is Frederik's Church dominates the cityscape. Dubbed the “Marble Church” due to its stately neoclassical facade clad in shimmering sandstone imported from southern Italy, the cathedral’s magnificent dome is unparalleled.

The opulent church is located in the middle of Amaliegade on Churchill Square. The circular church design was modeled after the Pantheon in ancient Rome. Immerse yourself in the grandiose interior and marvel at the 27-meter dome featuring a remarkable coffered ceiling, part of the largest dome built in Denmark since the Vikings.

I was awestruck when I first set eyes upon the facade, which was inspired by architecture of the Italian Baroque era. Eight pairs of Corinthian columns accentuated by sweeping staircases give the Rococo structure a majestic presence. Crowning the church, the oxblood dome rises tremendous and dome-like. As the church towers 61 meters above the skyline, it became known locally as “Marmorkirken” or the Marble Church.

While nearly all the building materials are Danish, the bluish gray exterior is clad in Italian marble giving Frederik's Church its well-deserved moniker. The marble facing on the west portal depicts historical figures like Jesus, Moses, David and Solomon linking the church to biblical traditions.

Venturing within the lofty rotunda bathed in soft golden light streaming through windows near the dome’s base, I was dwarfed by the sheer size and scale. My neck craned upward, following the dome toward the lantern oculus at the very apex. Ornamental pilasters, arched niches, friezes and cornices showcase superior Baroque craftsmanship.

Yet for all its magnificence, the unfinished Frederick's Church fell into near ruin after construction stalled from 1770 to 1894. Frederik V originally commissioned the grand project, but after his death, funding dried up. For over a century, the abandoned site was an embarrassment - a dilapidated relic with a debris-filled crater where the dome should be.

Finally in the late 1800s, Denmark’s two most influential financiers provided donations to resuscitate the construction. The dome and lantern were finally completed along with frescoes, marble work, and ornamentation in line with the original designs. Today, Frederik's Church is considered one of Copenhagen's most treasured landmarks. The architectural grandeur evokes the ambitious vision of Frederik V to construct the most impressive church in all of Europe.

Copenhagen Like a Dane: A Local's Guide to the Danish Capital's Hidden Gems - Take a Boat Tour of the Copenhagen Canals

Gliding along Copenhagen’s idyllic waterways is the perfect way to soak up the charm of this canal-laced city. Hop aboard a sightseeing cruise to see the Danish capital from a unique vantage point along its extensive network of scenic canals and inner harbor. Passing under cobbled bridges and cruising by colorful architecture lining the quays, you’ll gain fresh perspectives on Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks. From Amalienborg Palace to Nyhavn and The Little Mermaid statue, many top attractions are best viewed from out on the water.

Drifting smoothly down slender canals carves through the oldest quarters of Copenhagen, providing peeks into secluded courtyard gardens normally hidden from view. Hear live narration highlighting details of canal-side buildings rich in history as your captain steers through the urban heart of the city before emerging into wider harbors. Tours range from quick 45-minute spins showing highlights to more immersive 90-minute loops with extra stops. Private charters, dinner cruises, and self-guided electric boats are other ways to hit the water.

Gliding past Nyhavn’s Instagram-famous facades, I marveled at how the brightly hued gabled townhouses looked even more vivid reflected in the canal’s rippling waters. Further along we spotted The Little Mermaid statue gazing wistfully seaward on her harborfront perch. “Most tourists are surprised by her small size,” noted our guide. “She’s only 1.25 meters tall but represents the famous fairy tale written by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.”

Near Amalienborg Palace, we drifted by the extravagant, three-masted Royal Yacht Dannebrog where the Queen resides when at sea. Two enthusiastic kids waved excitedly as our boat sailed by – their smiling parents trying to snap photos. Further along, we passed a waterfront Ferris wheel temporarily erected at Tivoli Gardens, the famed Copenhagen amusement park.

Cruising into the wider harbor, we were dwarfed by the mammoth DFDS Ferry loading vehicles for its overnight journey to Oslo. “At 195 meters long, it’s the largest passenger ship sailing between Copenhagen and Norway,” stated our guide. This contrasted with the charming 1927 schooner we passed next, an antique wooden vessel with white sails billowing proudly.

Gliding serenely by Copenhagen’s picturesque spires and copper-green church domes, the city seems a place where old-world beauty endures. Yet modern architectural marvels like the Black Diamond waterfront extension of Denmark’s national library punctuate the horizon, showing Copenhagen’s continual evolution.