COPENHAGEN
Area: Denmark


Location:
In extreme E of Denmark, on E coast of largest island of Zealand (Sjaelland). 100 miles SE of Arhus; 95 miles E of Odense; 30 miles S of Helsingor; 5 miles NW of airport at Kastrup.

Telephone code from UK:
45

Website:
http://www.woco.dk or www.visitdenmark.com

Position:
Occupies flat coastal area along Oresund strait. Inner harbour waterway flows through SE part of city separating it from island of Amager.

Description:
Copenhagen is one of Europe's most attractive cities. Not only is it the capital of Denmark, it is also the largest city in Scandinavia and home to some 1.7 million people. Building on a long tradition of merchant trading, it has become today a major commercial centre for the whole Baltic region. In spite of this, Copenhagen still offers something akin to the flavour and style of a small provincial town: cyclists seem to outnumber motor vehicles, spires and gabled fa?ades dominate the low-rise skyline, canals and parkland punctuate its suburbs. Founded in the 12th century, it had grown into a major port by the Middle Ages and became the royal capital in the 15th century. Compact and easy to explore, the city has a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. The centre is largely pedestrianised and embraces an appealing mix of modern shops, medieval monuments, cobbled streets and pretty squares. To the N, delightful parks and elegant 17th-century mansions characterise the Nyboder district and just across the inner harbour lies the neat, traditional working-class quarter of Christianshavn with its attractive waterfront. Nearby Christiania is home to the city's alternative community. Founded by hippies in the early 1970s, its citizens don't pay taxes and live outside the Danish social system. Like most other cities, Copenhagen has a seedier side: there are sex shops around the station, and the backstreets of Vesterbro host a sex industry; nevertheless, these areas can't be said to be dangerous. Although generally grey and damp in the winter, the city still attracts visitors all year round and Christmas time is particularly enjoyable with lively markets and plenty of festive spirit.

Suitability:
From backpackers to businessmen, it is regarded as one of Scandinavia's more affordable cities. With its numerous historical sights, many cultural attractions and an underlying laid-back atmosphere, it has something to suit most tastes.

Accommodation:
Full spectrum including budget options, a wealth of middlemarket hotels and a small but distinguished choice at top end of market. Most tourist hotels are clustered W of main station, a slightly seedy though quite safe area. Another concentration lies near attractive Nyhavn canal.

Shopping:
Although prices are relatively high, shopping in Copenhagen is varied and appealing. The pedestrianised city-centre streets, particularly Stroget, are lined with designer stores and fashion outlets. Scandinavia's largest department store, numerous antique shops and specialist retailers can also be found here. Another busy thoroughfare is Vesterbrogade with a more affordable selection. Christianshavn district has a number of quirky and second-hand shops. Markets are held in Gammeltorv Square (mornings) and Israels Plads (Saturday) with fruit, flowers, bric-a-brac and curios traded. Porcelain, crystal glassware, jewellery and knitwear are all worth looking out for. Denmark is also well-known for its stylish home furnishings and kitchenware.

Beach:
People do not associate Copenhagen with beaches but in summer there is a choice. Amager Strand lies close to the Airport; Klampenborg and Charlottenlund about 4 miles N of the city. In N of Zealand, long sandy quiet beaches abound.

Entertainments:
Daytime: walking tours and boat cruises are a good way to sample city's character. Elegant Town Hall and Round Tower are best known of many fine historic buildings, which also include numerous old gabled houses; Tivoli Gardens (April to September), famous amusement park; numerous museums and galleries including Erotica museum and impressive National museum; famous Little Mermaid statue; Christiansborg palace (seat of government); appealing Nyhavn waterfront; Christianshavn district and "free city" of Christiania; Rosenborg Castle; Royal Porcelain factory; Carlsberg brewery. Leisure facilities include indoor golf centre, reputedly largest in world. Nightlife: vibrant and varied selection including lively bars, pubs and cafes, particularly in city centre and Norrebro district. Many venues stage live music ranging from jazz to large concerts of international pop groups; a number of free concerts are held in summer. Regarded as a party capital, it has several popular nightclubs and a thriving gay scene. Royal Theatre stages opera and ballet productions while Tivoli Gardens hold classical music and theatrical performances. Cinema is popular and English-language films are frequently shown. Casino.

Eating:
Eating out can be expensive, though there are plenty of relatively cheap sandwich bars, pizzerias and fast-food outlets. International and ethnic cuisine is well represented and there are countless small pubs and cafes. City centre, Nyhavn waterfront and Tivoli Gardens are full of restaurants, though these can be pricey; Christiania is more affordable. Set lunchtime menus are usually easier on the pocket. Smorrebrod (open sandwiches), seafood (particularly herring), goulash and buffets are local favourites. Alcohol is quite expensive.

Public-transport:
Although the city is a joy to explore on foot, its network of buses and S-trains is relatively efficient. Outlying areas are well served. Copenhagen Card covers travel for several days and includes free admission to many attractions. Cycling is a popular option as city is laced with cycle paths. Trains from Central Station serve numerous national and international destinations, including Sweden since opening of Oresund bridge to Malmo. A hydrofoil also serves Malmo and regular ferries connect several Baltic cities. Taxis can be hailed in the street but are quite pricey.

Local-excursions:
Half day: pretty fishing village of Dragor; Bakken amusement park; beach and aquarium in Charlottenlund; Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Full day: beaches in N of Zealand, such as Hellebaek and Hornbaek; Helsingor and its castle; former capital of Roskilde; parks, forests and lakes of Zealand; Malmo in Sweden via impressive Oresund road and rail bridge. Two days: other islands including Bornholm, Lolland and Falster; Malmo and S Sweden.