Copenhagen

There were many painful periods in the history of the capital. One of them was the siege during the Count's War in 1534-1536, followed by a relatively quiet century. Already in 1658-1659, the city fought with the Swedes, and in 1728, there was a Copenhagen fire, which burned down one-fourth of the capital.

Sad events also marked the beginning of the XIX century for Copenhagen. The sea battle in 1801, the British bombing in 1807 — the old fortifications, buildings, and boulevards were broken. However, this did not prevent the capital from building new forts and experiencing a period of active cultural development, known in history as the Golden Age of Denmark.

By the XX century, Copenhagen was already experiencing its peak development. It is an important trade and industrial center that managed to retain its image and significance during World War I because Denmark chose the position of neutrality. The city continued to grow and develop, becoming one of the most important centers in Scandinavia.

In 2013, a British magazine called Monocle compiled a rating of cities with favorable living conditions. Copenhagen was ranked number one on that list.

The weather gradually gets worse in Copenhagen from late August to early September, and the number of tourists decreases. September and October are still suitable for excursions and walks, especially if you are not a big fan of the crowds of other travelers.

Winter is not the best time to visit Copenhagen. The only reasons to come here in December are the Christmas fairs and the beautifully decorated city. However, when planning a trip for this time, you need to be prepared for bad weather. Temperature drops to -5°C, it's windy outside, and it often rains. At this time, it's nice to sit in a cafe with a cup of coffee, admiring the city life behind the window.

The capital of Denmark is a city where tourists have no time to get bored. In Copenhagen, you can plan such an intense program that there will not be enough time to accomplish all the points even within a week. If you want to see the fascinating spots, experienced travelers recommend to stick to the following list:

• See the Little Mermaid. This monument is the national pride not only of the capital but of all of Denmark. The Little Mermaid has been decorating Copenhagen for over a hundred years and is the most long-suffering monument in the city. The bronze figure was repeatedly covered with paint, lost an arm, and even its head. In 2010, she even went on "tour" to Shanghai, while the tourists in Copenhagen had to enjoy a video installation.
• Take a walk down Strøget Street. Even the name itself means "to walk" in Danish. It's simply impossible to ignore this place. Strøget is the longest pedestrian street in Europe, which stretches for 1.5 km. Numerous shops, souvenir stalls, cafes, and restaurants, as well as musicians, ancient churches, and original architecture — you will definitely remember this promenade.
• Climb the Round Tower. This is the case when you are interested not only in the observation deck on the tower but also in the ascent itself. Tourists will have to overcome 36 meters, but not by the usual steps, but by a special ramp. The award will not take long — it offers a stunning view of Copenhagen, and the main attractions are even marked with signs to be seen from a height. A secret from tourists: if you raise yourself on tiptoes, you can see a piece of Sweden.
• Find the EU border in the center of the city, cross it, and enter Freetown Christiania. A state of eternal festivity, a relaxed atmosphere, soft drugs in free access, and many representatives of different subcultures — this part of Copenhagen impresses at first sight. It is remarkable that it is forbidden to take photographs here. You can only admire and enjoy the local flavor.
• Take a walk in the cemetery. It sounds a little weird, but the fact is that the famous Copenhagen cemetery is more like a park. Families come here with strollers, and children walk here. Tourists come to the cemetery to see the graves of famous Danish people — Andersen, Niels Bohr, Kierkegaard, and many others.
• Feel like a driver in the subway. The metro in the capital was opened in 2002 and is considered one of the most high-tech in the world. The computer-controlled trains are its main feature. It means that every tourist can take the front seat and stare into the darkness of the tunnel during the trip. Feelings are indescribable!
• Take the courage test at Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe. Millions of tourists visit the park every year. There are many attractions for children and adults in its territory. Many of them are breathtaking, even on earth — not everyone will dare to take a ride.
• Try Jacobsen beer. This is a unique sort from the world-famous brand Carlsberg, which has already managed to get the VIP-status. You can taste Jacobsen exclusively in Denmark.