Hej! (Hej is hello in Danish!) Welcome to Denmark! After a full day of exploring Frankfurt, Germany on a walking tour, we arrived in Copenhagen. I am super excited because Copenhagen has been a bucket list item for quite some time. As you will learn, I totally have a soft spot for Old World Europe because I was a royal princess in a previous life and I recently caught up on my Denmark history so I can’t wait to check it out!
My first observation of Copenhagen is cost. As an American, it is very expensive to visit. The hotel room rates were too high so I opted to use AirBnb. As you know, I usually stay at a Marriott property, but Marriott was not worth paying four times the cost of an AirBnB stay. Note: I will write more about AirBnB later! After researching different neighborhoods and factoring in cost, I chose an apartment located only a few blocks from the Christianshavn Metro. The Metro runs directly to/from the airport making it super convenient. The apartment location was ideal for seeing most of what Copenhagen has to offer as well as feeling like a local. Our host recommended his favorite local restaurants and hangouts within walking distance. So naturally, we walked to all the sights and restaurants in the city–very easy!
Click link for information about the Opera House
Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy-tale Little Mermaid, this Copenhagen icon has been a major tourist attraction since 1913 despite its small size–only about 4 feet tall.
Located near the grounds of Saint Albans, Gefion Fountain features animal figures being driven by Norse goddess Gefjun.
Built in 1885, Saint Albans Church is the only Anglican church in Denmark. It is widely known as “The English Church.”
Kastellet is a significant military base built in 1626 by Christian IV. Today, it is used for military barracks and offices as well as a beautiful park for tourists and locals alike to enjoy.
The flag of Denmark is called “Dannebrog”, meaning “the flag of the Danes” or “the red flag,” which dates back to the 1300’s. Another fun fact about the Danish flag is variation. Not only does Denmark use a standard rectangular flag, but the “Dannebrog” has two swallowtail variations. One is used for land called “Splitflag” and one is used for sea called “Orlogsflag.” The latter is only used by Royal Danish Navy.
Part Two of my Copenhagen post will focus on palaces, castles, and the royal family history. Part Three will focus on Christiania or “Freetown” or “Green Light District.” Stay tuned!
Ed says
So, you were a Royal Princess in a previous life, too? Wonderful photos and explanations. Love your blog!
love cruising says
We were there on a Baltic cruise in 2010 and enjoyed it very much.
Katie Lu says
I wish I could have spent more time in Denmark. We were only there for 1 night. The Baltic Cruise has so many great ports–I definitely want to do it sometime!