Copenhagen City Guide - Sightseeing

The heart of Copenhagen is ringed by a series of lakes to the northwest and by the inner harbour to the southeast. It is characterised by narrow and predominantly pedestrian streets lined with gabled houses, enticing shops and cafes. The huge Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square) lies at the western end of the central area. From here, a series of pedestrianised streets (Strøget) extend as far as Kongens Nytorv (King's New Square).

The castles of Rosenborg and Amalienborg and the seaman's district of Nyboder are to be found in the area to the north and east of Kongens Nytorv. Slotsholmen Island, the site of Absalon's original bastion, lies to the southwest. The inner harbour separates the main part of the city from Christianshavn. This island was first developed in the 17th century, when Christian IV offered tax incentives to encourage merchants, shipbuilders and tradesmen to settle there.

In the 20th century, Denmark has achieved international renown for its contemporary design. Arne Jakobsen's furniture graces cool bars and cafes worldwide (not least in Copenhagen). In the city, the architectural heritage of Christian IV is supplemented by daring modern buildings, including the glittering waterfront extension to the Royal Library, known as the ‘Black Diamond', and the Opera House, which opened in January 2005.

Wonderful Copenhagen Tourist Information - CPH Right Now
Bernstorffsgade 1 (at the entrance to Tivoli)
Tel: 7022 2442.
Website: www.visitcopenhagen.com  
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 0900-1800 (May-Jun); Mon-Sat 0900-2000, Sun 1000-1800 (Jul-Aug); Mon-Fri 0900-1600, Sat 0900-1400, Sun closed (Sep-Apr).

Use It (Youth Information Centre)
Rådhusstræde 13
Tel: 3373 0620.
Website: www.useit.dk  
Opening hours: Mon-Wed 1100-1600, Thurs 1100-1800, Fri 1100-1400 (15 Sep-14 Jun); daily 0900-1900 (15 Jun-14 Sep).

This is a separate tourist information office for young, budget travellers, although a good deal of information useful to all ages and budgets is contained on their website.

The Copenhagen Card (CPHCARD) is valid for either 24 or 72 hours and provides free admission to more than 60 attractions, as well as free travel on all buses and trains and a comprehensive guide that includes maps and detailed information on more than 100 museums, sights and other services. These cards are available from travel agencies, hotels, railway stations or at the main tourist information office.