Copenhagen: weekend of the week

Copenhagen - canals, nightlife and the little mermaid

Why?  Denmark’s bustling capital is one of Europe’s greenest and most enjoyable cities. Characterised by narrow streets lined with colourful houses, cafes and shops, it has a great setting on the water and a rep for liberalism; a visit to the ‘freetown’ of Christiana (a fascinating partially self-governing ‘free spirited’ neighbourhood, which even has its own currency!) is a real eye opener.

Tivoli gardens, a large amusement park and pleasure garden is a major attraction, and with all that water around (Copenhagen has a vast canal network and a large inner harbour area) sightseeing at water-level is a must. There are plenty of guided boat trips, and the more adventurous can even take a guided kayak tour.  Bike is another popular form of transport and the city caters well for cyclists, with an excellent cycle network and the provision of free public city-bikes.

When? If you want to see the city at its most vibrant, late spring and summer are the time to come; the streets are bustling with café culture at this time of year and the inner harbour’s clean waters mean it’s even possible to go for a swim. Autumn and winter are the quietest times to visit, although during Christmas the city comes alive with several great Christmas markets.

Stay: Danhostel Copenhagen City has 1020 beds for budget travellers and is centrally located just 10 minutes walk from the main station. At the top end of the scale, Hotel D’Angleterre is regarded as Copenhagen’s finest hotel with an atmosphere of elegance, but a price tag to match.

Copenhagen Nightlife: The party starts late in Copenhagen; things rarely get going until post-midnight – cafes open till 2am, and clubs and bars don’t close till 5am. It’s common for venues to change their function depending on the time; by day they are a café, by evening restaurants and bars, and by night a club.

Try the trendy Zoo bar, Delicatessen, or Café Victor.  Fresh sea food is a popular dish; try the Kong Hans Kaelder which claims to be housed in the oldest building in the city; Barock offers excellent value modern Danish cuisine, or try Restaurant Puk, a warm and welcoming rustic eatery for no-nonsense local food.

Fly to Copenhagen in Denmark from:  London Stansted, London Gatwick, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester

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