Exploring Copenhagen, Denmark: An In-depth Look at the Danish Capital
Copenhagen, the captivating capital of Denmark, nestles on the eastern coast of the Scandinavian country, bordering Norway and Sweden in Northern Europe. Known for its friendly atmosphere, exciting nightlife, and two of the oldest amusement parks in the world, Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm.
One of the city's most intriguing attractions is Freetown Christiania, a self-styled, free town that stands out as a testament to 1970s counterculture. Originally an abandoned military base, Christiania was transformed in 1971 when a group of hippies squatted there, establishing a community with its own rules and regulations, independent of the Danish government.
Christiania operates under self-governance, with about 900 residents living there under their own established community rules. The neighbourhood is characterized by self-built houses, workshops, art galleries, music venues, and organic restaurants, creating a vibrant alternative lifestyle and artistic culture.
Perhaps the most famous (or infamous) aspect of Christiania was its "Green Light District" or Pusher Street, where cannabis was openly sold for many years, despite being illegal in Denmark. This area experienced police raids and occasional violence, including a notable shooting incident in 2016. Due to conflicts and resident campaigns, the drug trade has been largely suppressed, with locals urging visitors not to buy drugs there anymore.
Beyond Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. For those interested in Danish design, Hotel Kong Arthur offers rooms with unique Danish design, located in the heart of the city. Copenhagen Airport, the major airport in Denmark, serves as a gateway to this vibrant capital.
Tivoli Gardens, a 21-acre amusement park in the center of Copenhagen, is another must-visit destination. The park, which dates back to 1843, offers a mix of classic rides, modern attractions, and beautiful gardens. Tivoli Hotel, located inside Tivoli Gardens, offers rooms for around $125 (USD) a night, with customers getting an entrance to the park included in their room price.
Strøget, the main street in Copenhagen, is known for its designer clothing stores, jewelry stores, souvenir shops, and expensive restaurants and clothing stores. For a more affordable dining option, DØP Pølsevogn serves delicious hotdogs with various toppings, around $5 (USD), and can be found on street vendors throughout Copenhagen.
For those seeking a burger, Grillen Nørrebro in the Nørrebro section of Copenhagen offers a large burger with fries for around $10 (USD). Accommodation options in Copenhagen range from budget-friendly hostels like The Generator Hostel, located in the center of the city, to luxury hotels such as the 300-year-old Hotel D'Angleterre, known for its vintage decor and high prices.
The Canal Tour offers an inexpensive way to see many of Copenhagen's tourist attractions, including the National Museum of Denmark, Denmark's largest cultural history museum. The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, located across the street from the Copenhagen train station and a short walk to Tivoli, serves a buffet breakfast every morning on the top floor of the hotel.
In summary, Copenhagen is a city that offers something for everyone. From the historical charm of Freetown Christiania to the modern attractions of Tivoli Gardens and Strøget, visitors will find a wealth of experiences to enjoy. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway, Copenhagen is a destination that should not be missed.
A visitor to Copenhagen may find the unique alternative lifestyle and artistic culture of Freetown Christiania engaging, especially since it stands out as a testament to 1970s counterculture. After exploring this self-governing neighborhood, travelers can immerse themselves in the modern charm of the city, experiencing the design-centric hotels, renowned amusement parks like Tivoli Gardens, and bustling shopping streets such as Strøget.
