Copenhagen

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark, a Scandinavian sovereign state in Northern Europe. The country consists of a large peninsula and many islands, most notably Zealand, where Copenhagen is located, on the eastern coast.

A short walk from Langelinie Pier will take you to see the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen or Amalienborg Palace. Langelinie's promenade is lined with plenty of shops and cafes.

Harbour and Canal tours are available and depart from Gammel Strand and Kongens Nytorv in high season and guided walking tours from the Tourist Office operate between May and September. Attractions include New Carlsberg Museum, the Danish Royal Theatre, Nyhavn, Gefion Fountain, Grundtvig Church and Rosenborg Castle, built in the 17th century.

The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is the largest museum in Denmark.

Buy a Copenhagen Card - various options available, adult prices from 54 Euros (2020 prices) for free public transport in the entire Copenhagen region and free admission to more than 80 museums and attractions.

The 20 acres of Tivoli Gardens have more than 400,000 flowers on show, numerous restaurants and even amusement rides, including a roller coaster.

The four 18th century mansions that make up Amalienborg Palace have been the homes of the Danish royal family since 1794.

Christiansborg Palace is home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Royal Reception Rooms.

Kastellet was the city's main fortress until the 18th century. During the Nazi occupation, it was the Germans' headquarters.

For an amazing city view, climb up the 400 step spiral steeple of the Baroque Our Savior's Church.

The National Museum houses the largest collection of artefacts in the country including Viking stones, helmets and the 3,000 year old lur horn (among the oldest instrument in Europe).

See the statues of Christ and the 12 apostles at the neoclassical 11th century Vor Frue Kirke Church.

The Hans Christian Andersen Museum honours Denmark's world famous poet and fairy tale writer.

Kronborg Castle is considered one of the most important Renaissance castles in Northern Europe.

The beaches of North Zealand are around 38 miles away and include Gilleleje and Hornbaek. These can be reached by train to Helsingor, then bus.

North Zealand has more castles and palaces than any other region in Denmark. Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerod near Lake Slotso, is filled with magnificent tapestries, paintings and antiques.

Dragoer is one of Denmark's oldest and quaintest fishing villages, it is located on Amager Island and is a well preserved and friendly place to visit.

Strøget is one of Europe's longest pedestrian streets with a wealth of shops, it stretches from City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen) to Kongens Nytorv. Royal Copenhagen porcelain or Georg Jensen silver make nice gifts.

The open sandwiches, known as smørrebrød, can be considered a national speciality when prepared and decorated with a variety of ingredients. Traditional hot meals consist of ground meats, such as 'frikadeller' (meat balls) or 'flæskesteg' (roast pork with crackling) and 'kogt torsk' (poached cod) with mustard sauce and trimmings.

Cruise ships can dock at one of three cruise terminals in Copenhagen - Langelinie Quay, Nordre Toldbod, and Ocean Quay (Oceankaj). Langelinie Pier is around a 10 minute walk from the city centre. There are shops, cafes, ATM's and an information centre within the immediate area.

Taxis are available.