The capital of the world’s oldest kingdom has undergone significant gastronomic and architectural developments in recent years. With bags packed, the Warehouse Home team dive in and review some of the best places to visit during a short stay in cutting-edge Copenhagen.
Originally a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen became the Danish capital in the 15th century. The city celebrated its 850th anniversary in 2017 - a landmark determined by the fact that in 1167, a fortress was built on the location which now houses the Christiansborg Palace.
The medieval city centre is best explored on foot or, as this is one of the most bicycle friendly cities in the world, on two wheels. The seemingly endless waterfront promenades and lush parks make this a destination to discover at a more relaxing pace. The 13th century Gammeltorv (‘Old Square’) and the Christiansborg Palace should certainly be followed by a leisurely stroll along Magstræde, one of the oldest streets in Copenhagen. And in the Tivoli Gardens, the world’s earliest amusement park will attract thrill-seekers of all ages.
The beautiful bronze statue on a rock at the waterside of the Langelinie promenade honours The Little Mermaid fairytale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. His former home can be visited in Nyhavn district. And after a day of exploring the city along old cobbled streets, the converted harbourside warehouses of Copenhagen reward visitors with dinner in a choice of several exceptional restaurants. Here in Copenhagen, as Hans Christian Andersen once wrote, “Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale”.
On Copenhagen’s northern harbour, Nordhavn, is the city’s coolest new hotel. Containing just a single bedroom and set within a converted 1940s crane, you might be forgiven for thinking this would be the most basic type of accommodation. But set 50 feet above the ground, this is no ordinary offering.
Further to the bedroom, there is a separate living room, a spa and sauna, and a conference room. Much of the original structure has been retained. The minimalist Nordic interiors are black-stained, an aesthetic link to the coal they once held. And as this unique retreat is three miles from the city’s historic centre, it also conveniently comes with the use of a BMW i3 electric car and a pair of bicycles.
