Alphabeat's singer Stine Bramsen guides you through the many attractions of Denmark's capital city.
Alphabeat's singer Stine Bramsen guides you through the many attractions of Denmark's capital city.
On a visit to wonderful Copenhagen you'll find loads to do. There are only 1.7 million people living in this rather small capital city and yet it has so much to offer. Actually the physical size makes it really quick and easy to get around. When in Denmark you should do as the Danes do, so my best tip would be to rent a bicycle - or even use the free cycles that are placed around the city centre. And don't worry, it's not uncool to ride a bike in Copenhagen!
AREAS TO SEE ...
Nørrebro Firstly, I want to recommend Nørrebro, which has always been my home while staying in Copenhagen. This area offers lots of bars and cafes in a down-to-earth and very multicultural environment. I especially recommend Cafe Stefanos (on the corner of Stefansgade and Julius Blomsgade) for a healthy and delicious lunch. For a tasty dinner (or brunch) go to Bodega on Kapelvej - they serve amazing burgers and if you're just after a casual drink go to Chili Pop on Rantzausgade or Gefährlich on Skt. Hans Torv
Vesterbro This western borough of the city is definitely worth a visit too. It is the red light district and slightly rough, but packed with pubs, bars and cafes. Vega Nightclub is a good place to go on a Saturday night. If you're looking for the Danish version of an old man's pub with a very mixed and rather entertaining crowd then go to McKluud's on Istedgade. For eating in Vesterbro I would definitely go to Frk. Barner's Kælder for traditional Danish food such as open sandwiches on rye bread or minced beef on toast (Pariserbøf). You may want to book a table in advance - this is an old-school treat!
Christianshavn Situated just one tube stop (or 5 minutes on a rented bike) from the city centre, this area is an artificial island built in the early 17th century, and it used to be the centre of merchant trading. Surrounded by water on all sides and now quite a bohemian place, it's definitely worth a look. Go for a romantic walk along the many canals or visit the famous Christiania, an area which was formerly used by the military but now is partially self-governed, and has lots of unique architecture.
WHAT TO DO ON SUNNY DAYS
If you are visiting Copenhagen in the summer (or even spring) it is a must to visit Kongens Have (The King's Garden). All the youngsters hang out here for picnics, barbecues and celebrations and it is a beautiful park conveniently placed just five minutes walk from the main shopping street. Or you could visit Amager, a southern suburb of Copenhagen where the city has recently built a lovely beach park. If the temperature is over 20 degrees this is a lovely place to go for a swim. Both places are ideal for Danish eye candy of both sexes during the warm season.
SHOPPING
In my opinion, there are treasures to be found in this city. If you are looking for quality high street clothing the shopping centre Illum is a good solution. This building offers a good mixture of Danish and well known international brands. Make sure to check out Samsøe Samsøe! If you're in need of something special, take a look in the designer fashion department too. Vintage and second-hand shopping, however, take place in what is loosely called 'Pisserenden' just north of the main shopping street. Look for streets such as Larsbjørnstræde and Studiestræde and shops like Kbh K and Carmen & Fantasio. Streets like Blågårdsgade and Fælledvej in Nørrebro also offer good shops in this genre.
WHERE TO STAY
Vesterbro has many hotels in different price ranges, but this is a working man's area, so if you're looking for posh, this is probably not the area to be staying in. If you're looking for vibrant and young Copenhagen, however, this is ideal. Check out visitcopenhagen.com for ideas of where to stay.
The most unique hotel in Copenhagen is probably Hotel Fox on Jarmers Plads, each room is different and most of them very colorful. Prices are not too bad either!
GETTING THERE
Easyjet fly to Copenhagen and the airport is also the hub for SAS Airlines. You can also travel to Copenhagen by rail or by cruise ferry. For more details visit seat61.com/Denmark
Alphabeat release their new album 'The Beat Is...' on March 1 and are touring with Lady Gaga in the UK from February 18.