"Copenhagen is not a city you visit, but a city you live in," says an old Danish proverb. And indeed, Copenhagen is more than just a collection of sights – it is a vibrant metropolis that enchants its visitors with its combination of history, modern design, and Nordic joie de vivre. The city is located on the eastern coast of the island of Zealand and is known for its picturesque canals, royal palaces, and rich cultural history. But what makes Copenhagen so unique?

• Diverse Architecture: From historic palaces to modern buildings, Copenhagen offers an impressive mix of tradition and innovation.
• Waterways and Canals: The city is surrounded by water – whether it's the harbor, the picturesque canals, or the surrounding islands.
• Royal Residences: The Danish monarchy is deeply rooted in the city's history, which you can see in the magnificent castles and residences.
• Culture and Design: The city is known for its Nordic design, which is reflected in museums, galleries, and even in the streets and buildings of the city.
• Quality of Life: Copenhagen regularly ranks among the cities with the highest quality of life in the world, as evidenced by a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

• Population: Around 650,000 people live in Copenhagen (as of 2024).
• Area: The city covers approximately 88 square kilometers.
• Founded: The origins of Copenhagen date back to the 12th century.
• Economy: Copenhagen is the economic center of Denmark and one of the most important trading cities in Northern Europe.
• Nyhavn: The iconic harbor with its colorful houses was once a trading center; today, it is a popular tourist attraction.
• The Little Mermaid: This statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, is one of the city's most famous landmarks.
• Amalienborg Palace: The official residence of the Danish royal family and an impressive example of Rococo architecture.
• Transportation: Copenhagen has one of the most advanced bicycle networks in the world, and about 40% of the residents use bicycles as their primary means of transportation.
• Sustainability: The city has set the ambitious goal of becoming CO2 neutral by 2025.
• Airport: Copenhagen Airport-Kastrup is the largest in Scandinavia and one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Copenhagen was founded around the year 1167 by Bishop Absalon. Originally a small fishing village, the city developed into an important trading center due to its strategic location at the Øresund. In the 15th century, Copenhagen was declared the capital of Denmark and played a central role in the political and economic life of the country. Trade flourished in Copenhagen during the 16th and 17th centuries. The city benefited from its location on the important trade route between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, evolving into one of the most significant ports in Northern Europe. During this time, many of the impressive buildings and landmarks that still shape the cityscape today, such as Rosenborg Castle and the Stock Exchange, were constructed.

The Challenges of the 19th Century

The 19th century brought both prosperity and challenges to Copenhagen. The war with Great Britain and the subsequent fire of 1807 destroyed large parts of the city. However, Copenhagen quickly recovered and continued to grow, particularly after the industrialization that brought new economic impulses. The construction of modern harbor facilities and the connection to the railway network strengthened the city's position as a trading and economic center.

Copenhagen is divided into several districts, each with its own character and charm. Here is an overview of the most important districts and neighborhoods:

District	Neighborhoods
Indre By	Nyhavn Strøget Christiansborg
Østerbro	Fælledparken Nordhavn
Nørrebro	Superkilen Assistens Cemetery
Vesterbro	Meatpacking District Tivoli
Amager	Ørestad Islands Brygge
Frederiksberg	Frederiksberg Garden, Zoo

Copenhagen has many famous sights that reflect the city's history and culture. Here is a list of the most well-known landmarks:

• The Little Mermaid: This statue is not only the symbol of the city but also a tribute to the writer Hans Christian Andersen. It sits at Langelinie Pier and is a popular photo spot for tourists.
• Amalienborg Palace: The residence of the Danish royal family consists of four identical Rococo palaces arranged around an octagonal square. Here, you can witness the daily changing of the guard.
• Nyhavn: The picturesque harbor with its colorful houses is one of the most popular photo motifs in Copenhagen. Today, the buildings house restaurants, bars, and cafés.
• Rosenborg Castle: This Renaissance castle is home to the Danish crown jewels and provides a fascinating insight into royal life from past centuries.
• Rundetårn (Round Tower): The oldest functioning observatory tower in Europe not only offers a fantastic view over the city but also an impressive exhibition of historical instruments.

Route to the Main Attractions

For a perfect sightseeing day in Copenhagen, the following route is recommended:

1. Start at Nyhavn and enjoy the sight of the colorful houses along the water.
2. Stroll on to Amalienborg Palace and experience the changing of the guard.
3. From there, walk to Rosenborg Castle, where you can admire the Danish crown jewels.
4. Next, make your way to Rundetårn, where you can experience the city from a bird's eye view.
5. To conclude the day, take a walk along the waterfront promenade to visit the Little Mermaid.

Tip: Renting a bike is an excellent way to explore Copenhagen. The city is extremely bike-friendly, and you can easily ride between the attractions.

Copenhagen is crisscrossed by numerous waterways and lakes that shape the cityscape. Here is an overview of the most important bodies of water:

Body of Water	Length
Copenhagen Harbor	42 km
Sydhavnen	10 km
Peblinge Lake	1.1 km
Sortedams Lake	2.3 km

Copenhagen is a dynamically growing city that attracts people from all over the world. Current statistics show:

• Population: Approximately 650,000 people.
• Proportion of foreign population: Around 20% of the residents are of international origin.
• Average age: Copenhagen has a relatively young population, with an average age of about 36 years.

Copenhagen is not only the political capital of Denmark but also a significant economic and trade center. The most important industries include:

• Shipping and Logistics: The port of Copenhagen is one of the largest in Scandinavia and plays a central role in the region's trade.
• Design and Architecture: Copenhagen is world-renowned for its leading role in Scandinavian design and innovative architecture.
• Pharmaceutical Industry: Major companies like Novo Nordisk and Lundbeck are based in the region and contribute significantly to the Danish economy.
• Tourism: The city attracts millions of visitors each year who want to experience the royal palaces, museums, and cultural events.

Copenhagen hosts exciting events throughout the year. Here are some of the biggest events:

Event	Time Period	Info	Admission
Copenhagen Marathon	May	The largest marathon in Denmark
Distortion Festival	June	Street festival with music and art	From 50 DKK
Copenhagen Jazz Festival	July	One of the largest jazz festivals in Europe	From 450 DKK
Cultural Night	October	Cultural festival with events all over Copenhagen	From 100 DKK

There's a lot to discover during your visit to Copenhagen, whether you're traveling alone or bringing your loved ones along. Either way, the city offers an incredible number of interesting locations that you definitely shouldn't miss.

Five Destinations in Copenhagen

1. Tivoli: The second oldest amusement park in the world offers nostalgic rides and beautiful gardens.
2. Frederiksberg Have: An idyllic park with a view of the castle – perfect for a picnic.
3. Christiansborg: The Danish Parliament building features an exciting historical exhibition.
4. Amager Strandpark: This beach is located right in the city and is perfect for sunny days.
5. Louisiana Museum: A world-renowned art museum located just outside the city with a view of the sea.

Three Recommendations in Copenhagen for Couples

1. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek: An art museum with romantic inner courtyards and beautiful architecture.
2. Canal Boat Tour: A relaxed and romantic way to experience the city from the water.
3. Dinner at Noma: A gourmet restaurant that has been named the best restaurant in the world several times.

Three Recommendations in Copenhagen for Singles

1. Superkilen Park: An urban park in the multicultural neighborhood of Nørrebro – ideal for relaxing or jogging.
2. Meatpacking District: A trendy area with cool bars, perfect for a night out with friends.
3. Reffen Street Food Market: Delicious food from all over the world right by the harbor.

Three Hotel Recommendations in Copenhagen

1. Hotel d’Angleterre: A luxurious hotel with history that has been welcoming guests since 1755.
2. Nimb Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel right in Tivoli.
3. CPH Living: A floating hotel with direct views of Copenhagen's canals.

Education in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is also an educational center that houses many renowned universities and colleges:

• University of Copenhagen: The largest and oldest university in Denmark, founded in 1479.
• Technical University of Denmark (DTU): A leading technical university in Europe.
• Copenhagen Business School (CBS): One of the best business schools in Europe.

How to Get to Copenhagen

• By Car: Copenhagen is easily accessible via the highway network. The E20 leads directly into the city. There are numerous parking options, especially in the downtown parking garages.
• By Public Transport: Copenhagen has a modern public transport system that includes subways, buses, and S-trains. The Copenhagen Airport-Kastrup is well connected to the city center.

Copenhagen is a fascinating city that uniquely combines tradition and modernity. Whether you want to explore the royal palaces, stroll through the historic streets, or experience the vibrant nightlife – you can find it all in Copenhagen. The Danish capital is the perfect place for a city trip that brings together culture, history, and quality of life at the highest level.