Copenhagen, Denmark

Howdy folks! Well, brace yourselves because I'm about to spill the beans about my whirlwind flings with Copenhagen. Yup, you heard that right, not once but twice I've had the delight of wining and dining with this dashing Danish city. And mind you, these were just quick rendezvous, three days in total, squeezed in between my charming life in Vienna.

Now, let's get one thing straight. Copenhagen isn't your typical Danish dame. Oh no, she's got a personality that stands apart even in the lovely crowd of Denmark. Kinda like saying, she's from Denmark, but doesn't always do the Danish drill. Except, of course, she's got the biking bug and this irresistible urge to "hygge" - their cozy, comfort-laden lifestyle, running in her veins.

So, you've probably heard some stories about her past, right? A little complicated, a little inspiring - sorta like that artsy rebel in a historical drama. That backstory has shaped not just her looks (oh those dreamy canals and bold architecture!), but also her unique, infectious vibe. The same vibe that makes her go gaga over minimalist design - it's not just a fad, it's a way of life for her denizens, young and old.

Sure, there are some odd bits about her. The kind of stuff that raises an eyebrow or leaves you scratching your head. But guess what? Before you can even say "smørrebrød", you'll find yourself smitten by her charisma and charm, no matter how short your stay.

And here's the big reveal, folks. I have to confess - I've got a serious crush on Copenhagen. It's one of those places that you just can't help but fall head over heels for. It may not be my home, but it sure feels like a cozy home away from home. And that, my friends, is no small feat. So, Copenhagen, here's looking at you, kid!

How do we travel to Copenhagen?

Alright, buckle up folks, we're about to set off on the fast lane to the Danish dreamland - Copenhagen. Snuggled up in the eastern part of Denmark and straddling the islands of Zealand and Amager, Copenhagen is the sultry siren of Scandinavian cities. Graced by the sparkling waters of the Øresund strait, this capital city boasts the status of being one of the 5 regions of Denmark. Now, getting your boots on this Nordic turf isn't as hard as a Viking battle, so let's break down your routes:

1. By air. It's a breeze, honestly! Just snag tickets to their shiny airport (Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup), and voila, you're in the land of Little Mermaid! Need tips to fly without breaking the bank? Just tap here for my budget-savvy travel hacks.
2. By train/bus. Perfect choice if you're a stone's throw away and dread wasting your precious time stuck in airport queues. I would personally put my chips on FlixBus or scan through Omio for more options.
3. By car. If you've got wheels, then it's all the more fun! But remember to tick off these essentials: First, check if you need an eco-sticker to enter the city's green zones. Second, fuel up in the city outskirts, because motorway prices can hit your wallet hard. And last, but not least, secure a parking spot to rest your ride.

Now, let's shimmy over to how you can zip around the city.

From the chic neighbourhoods of Nørrebro to the charming canals of Christianshavn, Copenhagen's got you covered:

1. Public Transport. Copenhagen's got a slick network of metro, buses, and trains (including the snazzy S-trains). There are three fare zones: Zone A includes the city center, Zone B extends to the city limits, and Zone C reaches out to the suburbs, including the Copenhagen Airport. Grab your tickets from the DSB outlets, ticket machines, or through the DSB app. Apple Pay and Google Pay can be your best pals here. A one-way ticket for AB Zones will set you back 24 DKK.
2. Taxi. Besides the city's official taxis, you've got plenty of options like Bolt and Uber that won't make your wallet cry.
3. E-Scooters/Bikes. If you want to take in the sights without diving underground and weather gods are smiling, zip around on e-scooters or bikes! You've got Lime, Donkey Republic, Bycyklen, and more at your service. And yes, it's usually safe with plenty of bike lanes.
4. Car Sharing. If you've got a driving license and a need for speed, consider car sharing. Check out services like GreenMobility or Share Now - they've got a fleet ready to go when you are. And don't worry, Copenhagen's traffic won't give you a heart attack.

So there you have it, a bunch of options to sprint, stroll, or spin around this Danish delight. Let's get the wheels rolling, shall we?

Staying and Accommodation

Picture this, Copenhagen, sprawling over 86.4 square kilometers, is snugly fit for its 600,000 plus residents. Now, trying to pick the cream of the crop from Copenhagen's hotels is like choosing your favourite Smørrebrød - there are just too many mouth-watering options!

The city's got a smorgasbord of vibrant neighbourhoods. For instance, you might fancy the spirited vibe of Nørrebro and Vesterbro. Or perhaps you'd rather be swanky and opt for the upscale charms of Frederiksberg or Østerbro. But remember, your choice of the nest in Copenhagen will be the lens through which you view this Danish gem. Every quarter, every nook and cranny paints a unique portrait of the city.

Talking about the price tag on these Danish delights, well, they're not dirt-cheap nor will they demand a king's ransom. Copenhagen's lodgings are priced just right, often being more wallet-friendly than some of the other big-shot European destinations.

Now, let's deep dive into the top neighbourhoods to catch your Zzzs in Copenhagen:
Indre By (Ideal for first-timers and sightseeing buffs)
Vesterbro (A hipster's paradise with an alternative vibe)
Nørrebro (Your go-to area for a slice of Copenhagen's lively nightlife)
Frederiksberg (The ritzy neighbourhood for shopping and culture)
Østerbro (A top pick for foodie families)

For more tips and hacks on how to save your money while traveling in Europe - CLICK HERE (my summary for traveling within Europe)

Major tourist attractions

Alright, let's continue our jaunt around Copenhagen, which is as famed for its culture as it is for its love for Hygge. Copenhagen is practically bursting at the seams with museums, galleries, and, of course, castles (It's Denmark, after all!).

Ready for the hitlist of Copenhagen's must-see sights? Here you go:

1. Tivoli Gardens (One of the oldest operating amusement parks in the world, right in the heart of the city)
2. Nyhavn (Iconic waterfront lined with colourful 17th and early 18th century townhouses and bars, cafes and restaurants.)
3. Christiansborg Palace (Home to the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court. Plus, it's got a stunning tower view!)
4. Copenhagen Opera House (One of the most modern and most expensive opera houses in the world. Catch a show if you can!)
5. The Little Mermaid (The city's mascot, perched on a rock by the waterside at the Langelinie promenade.)
6. Nyhavn (The postcard-perfect harbor area. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or a canal tour.)
7. Rosenborg Castle (A stunning Renaissance castle housing the Danish crown jewels. Trust me, it's worth a visit!)
8. Freetown Christiania (A self-proclaimed autonomous district, known for its unique and alternative lifestyle, we will get back to it later)
9. Amalienborg Palace (The home of the Danish royal family. And yes, you can visit!)
10. Torvehallerne (A gourmet food market in the city center. A foodie's paradise, really!)
11. National Museum of Denmark (Denmark's largest museum of cultural history. A must for history buffs!)
12. Round Tower (Rundetaarn) (A 17th-century tower offering panoramic views of Copenhagen.)
13. Copenhagen Zoo (One of the oldest zoos in Europe. Perfect for a family day out!)
14. Strøget (One of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe. Shop till you drop, anyone?)
15. Kastellet (One of the best-preserved fortresses in Northern Europe, shaped like a star.)

Finally, food time!

Copenhagen, my dear friends, is not just the epicenter of Scandinavian design and Hygge, it's also a foodie's paradise! The city has a remarkable and diverse culinary landscape, borrowing flavours from around the world, and of course, flaunting its own Danish delicacies.

This city isn't all about herring and smørrebrød, even though they're classic Danish nosh. No, Copenhagen is a hotbed of gastronomic genius, with restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors serving up a smorgasbord of dishes, from traditional Danish to French, Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern and so on.

As you might already know, Danish cuisine isn't uniform, it varies across regions. For example, Bornholm is famous for its smoked fish, while the culinary style in Funen tends to focus on locally grown ingredients. This sheer variety makes Copenhagen the perfect stomping ground for food lovers who are always on the hunt for something new and mouthwatering.

If it's authentic nosh you're after, you've hit the jackpot with Copenhagen. The city's culinary scene is as diverse as a Christmas buffet, serving up everything from hearty meals to light bites, classic dishes to innovative cuisine.

So, when you pack your bags for Copenhagen, make sure you pack an appetite as well! With such an extensive menu of choices, you're bound to find something that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance and leave you craving more.

Some places to visit based on my own experience, locals' recommendations and google research I have conducted:

Here's a foodie list that you can't resist when in Copenhagen:

1. Kiin Kiin: A Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in the vibrant Nørrebro district. Yes, the prices might make you gasp, but the tantalizing flavors are worth every øre.
2. Gasoline Grill: A burger joint in the heart of the city. They're serving up drool-worthy burgers that won't break the bank. Worth every juicy bite!
3. Laura's Bakery: A sweet spot in Torvehallerne market. Their cinnamon rolls? Oh my, you might consider moving to Copenhagen for these alone.
4. Restaurant Schønnemann: A Danish institution serving traditional smørrebrød. Their herring will have you singing praises in no time!
5. Sticks'n'Sushi: You might not think sushi when you think Denmark, but this place will change your mind. Tasty and reasonably priced, they're serving up some of the best sushi in town.
6. Mother: An Italian restaurant in the trendy Meatpacking District. Their pizza is to die for, and the prices won't make your wallet cry.
7. Durum Bar: A small kebab joint in trendy Nørrebro. Serving up some of the most flavorful Middle Eastern street food. Definitely a must-try!
8. Fru Nimb: A classic Danish restaurant in the iconic Tivoli Gardens. Their smørrebrød is as authentic as it gets.
9. Cafe Europa 1989: A great café spot on the bustling Strøget shopping street. Just like Copenhageners, grab a sunny spot and enjoy some great coffee.
10. Mikkeller Bar: A renowned craft beer bar with a rotating selection of rare and exotic brews. This is the place to be for beer enthusiasts.
11. Noma: Often called the best restaurant in the world, Noma is known for its innovative, artful, and deeply Nordic cuisine. Make sure you book in advance!
12. Torvehallerne: Not a single place, but a vibrant, upscale market full of gourmet food stalls. From fresh fruits and bakery goods to sushi and wine, it's a food lover's paradise.
13. Llama: A Latin American restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen. The ceviche here is divine and their cocktails are to die for.
14. Kødbyens Fiskebar: Located in the hip Meatpacking District, this restaurant is an absolute must for seafood lovers.
15. 108: A more casual sibling of the famous Noma, 108 offers Nordic cuisine with a contemporary twist.
16. Geranium: Copenhagen's only three-star Michelin restaurant, offering an exceptional culinary experience with a view over the city’s rooftops.
17. Smagsløget: A sandwich shop that serves arguably the best sandwiches in Copenhagen. It’s a must-try for a quick, delicious lunch.
18. Grød: The world’s first porridge bar, offering a variety of sweet and savory porridges. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy meal.
19. La Glace: The oldest confectionery in Denmark, renowned for its cakes and pastries. A treat for your sweet tooth.
20. Copenhagen Street Food on Papirøen (Paper Island): An indoor market with food trucks serving dishes from around the world.

Prices

Alright, brace yourself. Let's chat about prices in Copenhagen. The city, with all its charm and beauty, does have a reputation for being rather expensive. As in, you might need to take out a small loan to buy a coffee, kind of expensive. But, hey, quality comes at a cost, right?

Eating out in Copenhagen could have you spending anywhere from 100 to 200 Danish Kroner (DKK) per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. If you're a beer lover, be prepared to shell out around 50-60 DKK for a pint at a decent pub. Coffee, a staple in this city's life, would typically set you back by around 35-45 DKK for a regular latte or cappuccino.

Public transportation in Copenhagen, while efficient, isn't exactly pocket-friendly either. A single ride ticket for bus or metro will cost around 24 DKK, and a monthly pass will put a 610 DKK dent in your pocket.

Accommodation, predictably, follows the same high-priced trend. For a budget hotel room, you're looking at about 700-900 DKK per night, and a mid-range hotel room might ask for anything around 1200-1500 DKK per night. If you're after the high life and want to splash out on a five-star hotel, be ready to part with at least 3000 DKK per night.

In a nutshell, Copenhagen is quite the splurge. But with the city's enchanting streets, unique culture and unforgettable experiences, it could be a splurge that's well worth it. After all, we're only here for a short visit. Don't hurry, don't worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way. Or in Copenhagen's case, the open sandwiches.

Christiania!

Ah, Christiania! Now, that's an interesting district in Copenhagen. A self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood, Christiania is known for its hippie vibe, distinctive art, music scene, and an unusual relationship with drugs. Let's delve right into it.

This quirky district was established in 1971 by squatters and artists who took over an abandoned military base. Christiania quickly became a haven for alternative lifestyles and countercultures, with its own unique laws and regulations.

Alright, let's talk about the elephant in the room. Christiania, particularly the area known as Pusher Street, has had a long-standing association with the cannabis trade. The sale of cannabis here is something of an open secret. However, let's be crystal clear on this, despite its widespread presence, cannabis is still illegal in Denmark, including Christiania.

There's a curious paradox here. The local rules in Christiania clearly state "no hard drugs", yet the place has grappled with the issue of harder drugs like cocaine and amphetamines from time to time. However, through self-policing and community initiatives, the residents of Christiania have managed to significantly reduce the issue of hard drugs.

Don't be misled though, Christiania is more than just Pusher Street. There are vibrant eateries, colourful murals, charming homemade houses, workshops, art galleries, music venues, and more. Its unconventional charm makes it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

But, when visiting Christiania, do keep in mind that it's a residential community first. Respect their rules. Absolutely no photos in the Pusher Street area. And as attractive as the outlaw aura might seem, remember, drugs are still illegal.

In a nutshell, Christiania is a vibrant, complex neighbourhood with a unique charm of its own. It's a place where you can experience an alternative way of life, but, like anywhere else, it's important to remain mindful of local rules and broader legal implications. Visit Christiania for its bohemian spirit, its street art, its music, and its sense of community, but remember, it's no lawless land. Be responsible, be respectful, and enjoy what this unique enclave has to offer.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, Copenhagen is an exciting city where an intriguing past meets a future-focused mindset. With its rich historical sites, innovative design culture, trendsetting gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife, it has something to delight everyone. But I'm going to be brutally honest here, the city can put a bit of a strain on your wallet, it's infamous for being somewhat on the pricier side.

Now, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast or just someone in search of a unique experience, Copenhagen's got your back. But beware, it won't be gentle on your pocket. From accommodations to dining, things tend to lean towards the expensive side. The city has its fair share of Michelin-starred restaurants, if that's your cup of tea (and you don't mind splurging a bit).

Public transportation is efficient and comprehensive, so getting around the city is a breeze, although exploring Copenhagen by bike can be a delightful experience. Do remember to bring your best cycling game though, because these Danes take their biking very seriously.

When it comes to planning your trip, be prepared to be meticulous. There's so much to see and do that you won't want to miss out on anything. But, equally, don't forget to leave some room for spontaneity. Sometimes, the best way to truly experience Copenhagen is to let go of the itinerary, get lost in its charming streets, and let the city and its hygge envelop you.

So, brace yourself for the Danish prices, pack up your adventurous spirit, get ready to bike like you've never biked before, and let Copenhagen cast its spell on you. Believe me, it's worth every krone!