Hans Christian Anderson Walking Trail

On my second and most recent visit in May 2025, our cruise ship docked just a 15-minute walk from The Little Mermaid statue. Although the experience was slightly tarnished by the ever present crowds, it remains one of my favourite childhood films, so I was glad to catch a second glimpse on my way into town. The tales of Hans Christian Andersen run throughout Copenhagen, you’ll find a statue of Andersen himself near City Hall, on his namesake boulevard. However his home was Odense on the isle of Funen (Fyn). If fairy tales and castles are your thing, I would suggest taking a look at our twin centre – to bring these stories to life.

A Peaceful Stroll Around Kastellet, Gefion Fountain and Amalienbord Palace

Nearby is Kastellet, one of the best-preserved fortresses in Northern Europe. Built in the 17th century, it’s a well-maintained example of Renaissance military architecture, complete with bastions, a moat, ramparts, and original buildings still in use by the Danish military today. It’s a peaceful spot to wander the gardens or enjoy a picnic on a sunny summer’s day. There are plenty of statues here too. As you leave the park, you’ll reach the impressive Gefion Fountain. Another tourist hot spot, but again, if you arrive early, you can still capture an uninterrupted photo.

We then made our way to Amalienborg Palace, home of the Danish Royal Family. The open courtyard and uniformed guards would feel similar to any London tourist, at Buckingham Palace or the Tower of London. If you time your visit right, you can watch the Changing of the Guard at 12pm daily. The march begins at the Royal Guard barracks by Rosenborg Castle and passes through the city streets to Amalienborg. This palace surrounds a towering statue of King Frederick V – fitting that he is keeping an eye over his very own church..read on! 

Coffee Stop and The Marble Church

Next came a much-needed coffee stop, an essential if you know me and my family. We headed to Original Coffee on Bredgade 36 for an excellent latte and a classic Danish pastry. From there, we doubled back to Frederiks Kirke (also known as Frederik’s Church or The Marble Church), which is just as majestic inside as it is from the outside. The tall domed ceiling, the largest in Scandinavia, was originally designed by Nicolai Eigtved. Sadly, after his death, construction halted and the church lay in ruins for 40 years until enough funds were raised to complete it in 1790.

I love historical/architectural stories like this. During my previous visit, just two weeks before I arrived, Copenhagen’s historic Old Stock Exchange (Børsen), which had stood since 1625, was devastated by fire. To many Danes, it was their “Notre Dame.” Reminders that some buildings take centuries to complete, can stand for hundreds more, and yet be lost in minutes.

Danish Bike Culture

We spent the rest of our day wandering Copenhagen’s streets, stopping by the iconic colourful houses of Nyhavn, pictured on nearly every Danish postcard, and visiting Christiansborg Palace. This is what I love most about the city, it’s walk ability. You can simply follow your feet and find beautiful public spaces and stunning architecture around every corner. That said, it’s also a city made for two wheels. Copenhagen has more bikes than people, and everyone from schoolchildren to politicians cycles daily. There are plenty of guided bike tours, hotel rentals and e-bike apps with pick-up and drop-off points all over the city. With dedicated cycle lanes everywhere, navigating Copenhagen by bike is easy and enjoyable.

Smørrebrød for Lunch: Restaurant Palægade Review

And of course, no blog Copenhagen Blog is complete without a mention of what we ate. Food culture in Denmark is booming, with 15 Michelin Stars just in Copenhagen itself. We were celebrating a birthday and looking for somewhere special. We were on the hunt for Smørrebrød, the classic Danish open sandwich, and found the perfect place: Restaurant Palægade.

This family-run restaurant blends tradition and innovation beautifully. For a lunch time meal, they recommend two dishes per person, or three if you’re feeling very hungry. We loved this concept of ordering multiple dishes and being able to try a few different things. We ordered eight dishes between five of us, with favourites being Curried Herring and Fillet of Witch Flounder, served on buttered rye bread. The quality was excellent, the atmosphere warm (most welcome on a rainy afternoon) and the prices reasonable. There is a three-course set menu that ends with a visit from their vintage-style dessert trolley, a charming final touch. With locally sourced beers and Aquavit, it couldn’t have been any better. This restaurant was full with locals, either out for lunch with friends, or business people grabbing something to eat. As a family of foodies, this meal will stay with us for long time.

Just for One Day in Copenhagen: Key Highlights to Remember

• Walk-able city. Easy to explore on foot from any starting point.
• The Little Mermaid and Gefion Fountain – arrive early to beat the crowds.
• Amalienborg Palace – changing of the Guard daily at 12pm.
• Original Coffee. Excellent lattes and pastries on Bredgade
• Frederiks Kirke (The Marble Church). Magnificent from the inside and out.
• Nyhavn – the colourful waterfront houses perfect for photos.
• Easy cycling. Rentals, e-bikes and cycle lanes across the city
• ️ Restaurant Palægade. Traditional Smørrebrød with a modern twist and sweet dessert trolley!

I hold very fond memories of Copenhagen, and would recommend it to anyone. Whether a group of friends travelling together or solo travellers, this city is safe and reliable for any sort of holiday. If you love your food, Denmark as a whole must make it onto your hit list. Recently the backdrop for Season 2 Episode 4 of The Bear (11 Emmy Awards 2024) – when bread-baker-turned-pastry-baker Marcus is sent to what is believed to be the capital of experimental gastronomy, wonderful wonderful Copenhagen!

Copenhagen can a weekend break or be paired up with most other Scandinavian cities – take a look at our Signature Cities package, taking you not only to Copenhagen, but Oslo and Bergen.