Copenhagen offers several must-see places for visitors, but not all of them are widely known. I have always been intrigued by the historical beauty and cultural experiences of the city, which will definitely spell-bound any tourist. Forget about The Little Mermaid and beer drinking in Nyhavn - here’s my top 5 of must-see places in the city.
Papirøen (Paper Island)
As funny as the name of this location may seem, there’s actually a reason for it. In the old times the press used to store their stocks of newspaper here, but more recently the island has become a popular haven for foodies and art lovers from all over the city. Tucked in between world-famous restaurant Noma and The Opera, Papirøen offers splendid views of the city while being a great mix of culture, creativity and delicious food!
Copenhagen Street Food resides here, meaning that you can get a cheap meal from one of the many food trucks or enjoy a well-made cocktail or a glass of wine served from the open containers. In the summer time it’s a melting pot of people of all ages and nationalities, and it’s definitely a different way to enjoy a gourmet experience in Copenhagen.
My tip: Order a Danish gourmet hotdog from Pølse Kompagniet and a world-class mojito from the cocktail stand!
Adress: Trangravsvej 4, 1436 Copenhagen. For more information go to www.copenhagenstreetfood.dk.
The Royal Library Garden
Copenhagen shelters a large number of charming parks, which are especially popular in the summer time. But if you’re looking for a peaceful oasis away from the beaten track, The Royal Library Garden must be the place to visit! Tucked in between The Royal Library and Christiansborg Castle, this ‘hidden’ garden offers plenty of breathing space if you need a moment away from the buzzing city life (or if you like pretty flower beds!)
The garden was designed in 1920, but the history of the area dates all the way back to the 17th Century (or even earlier). At this time a harbor called ‘Tøjhushavnen’ was placed here and if you look closely, you can still see signs of it today. A basin is located in the middle of the garden to honor the old harbor.
My tip: Enjoy your lunch in the garden or relax with a book and a drink during the day.
Adress: The Royal Library Garden, Søren Kierkegaards Plads 1, 1218 Copenhagen. The garden is open all year round from 6am to 10pm.
Torvehallerne
Every big city with respect for itself should have a proper food market. In 2011 Torvehallerne opened its doors to public in the centre of Copenhagen - offering a large variety of food from all over the world. More than 60.000 visitors find their way to Torvehallerne every day and with good reason!
I often come here during lunch break or to have coffee with friends, either inside at the food stands or outside during the summer. Torvehallerne offers more than 60 food stands and they cover everything from tapas, French delicacies, pastries, burgers, cheese, sushi and fresh fish etc. It might seem a bit pricy, but it’s all worth it due to the high level of quality!
My tip: Come here early in the day and grab a cup of coffee (made with love) From The Coffee Collective accompanied by a sweet treat from Lauras Bakery.
Adress: Frederiksborggade 21, 1360 Copenhagen. Torvehallerne is open 7 days a week.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Louisiana has been a haven for art lovers from all over the world since its opening in 1958. Even though it’s not located in Copenhagen, but 40 minutes north of the city, it deserves a spot on my list! Cause what is modern art in Denmark really without Louisiana?
The museum does not only cover Danish contemporary art, but several international pieces and artists as well, and its strong connection to the art world in general has made it one of the most respected museums of contemporary art in the world. Louisiana offers several exhibitions (at the moment by artists Emil Nolde and Philip Guston) as well as a splendid café. Last-mentioned is known for its modern take on Danish cuisine and you can enjoy lunch with a view of the sea. The Øresunds-train takes you straight from Copenhagen Central Station to Humlebæk station from where it’s easy to get to the museum.
My tip: Food and music lovers should try out the ‘Friday Lounge’ at Louisiana! On selected Fridays it’s possible to inhale the atmosphere while enjoying live music and a delicious buffet from the café. Check the website for more information.
Adress: Louisiana, Gl. Strandvej 13, 3050 Humlebæk. For more information go to www.louisiana.dk.
Kødbyen (Meat Packing District)
With no comparison to the one in New York, Copenhagen has its own meat packing district. While the one in New York is both bigger and older, the area in Copenhagen is a bit more low-key. In old times Kødbyen was a residence for the food business covering multiple butchers and traders in the industry, and today one finds sublime restaurants, bars and creative companies side by side in the area. Go here to experience a different night out or take a stroll around the district to see another side of Copenhagen.
My tip: Book a table at ‘Mother’ - the best pizzeria in town! The ambience is laid-back and cosy, but it’s very popular during weekends. For more information go to www.mother.dk.
Adress: Kødbyen, Flæsketorvet 68, 1711 Copenhagen. For more information go to www.kødbyen.dk.
