Here's Everything You Need to Know About Copenhagen, Denmark

Discover the wonders of Copenhagen through our private guided tours. Each month, our blog immerses you in the vibrant cities hosting our unique experiences. As we excitedly expand into this majestic Nordic capital, our expert guides will unveil the rich tapestry of Copenhagen's history and culture.

With a Context guide by your side, you'll delve into the heart of this city, unlocking its hidden gems and gaining personalized insights that transform your exploration into an unforgettable journey. Explore Copenhagen like never before, guided by the expertise and passion of our dedicated local guides.

Copenhagen's History

Copenhagen dates back to the 11th century, but it grew from a medieval fishing village into a bonafide major port town under Christian IV, King of Denmark, in the early 17th century. During his long reign, Christian IV initiated many building projects there, including Christianshavn, an area located on several islands in the harbor designed to fortify the city against attacks. Now, Christianshavn is a lively residential neighborhood known for its picturesque streets and local culture. (It’s also home to Freetown Christiania, a commune of about 1000 residents founded in 1971, but that’s another fascinating story!)

Christian IV is also responsible for building Christiansborg Palace, now home to Danish Parliament, after determining the previous castle was too small to demonstrate his power and magnificence. However, the Christiansborg Palace of today is not quite like the original; significant fires have required a complete rebuilding of the palace twice in its history. Denmark’s monarchical rule continues today, and the current Danish royal family, led by Queen Margrethe II, still spends part of their time at Copenhagen’s Amalienborg Palace.  

Renewable Energy in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is considered one of the cleanest—and greenest—cities in the world. The city is famous for its stringent environmental policies, including its focus on low-energy standards, and is dedicated to becoming carbon neutral by 2025. The water along Copenhagen’s harbor is so clean that people can swim in them, and their harbor baths are hugely popular among locals and visitors. Bicycling is also a huge part of Danish culture—it's reported that nine out of ten Danes own a bike—and even their politicians are known for biking to and from work along some of the city’s many bike-friendly streets.

Copenhagen is also known as one of the happiest cities in the world. Its residents tend to enjoy a relaxed and balanced lifestyle, assisted by Denmark’s famously strong social welfare policies. (In exchange for paying high taxes, the Danish get universal healthcare, higher education, and a pension, and tend to work on average 37 hours a week.) The Danish spend much of their considerable free time relaxing with family, often in their candlelit homes, as part of a nationwide love of coziness that they call ‘hygge’.

Smorrebrod & Style – Key Foods and Fashions

Copenhagen also boasts delicious food and a distinct style. From Danish classics like smørrebrød (an open-faced sandwich featuring rye bread and meat, fish, or vegetables) to New Nordic delights like fried bacon with wild garlic and cucumber (championed by Copenhagen’s Michelin-starred restaurant Noma), the food there can’t be more tasty. And sweets are just as important. Copenhagen is filled with shops selling pastries (there's a reason we call it "Danish"), a tradition going back hundreds of years.

Similarly, examples of Copenhagen’s iconic, minimalist Scandinavian interior design style abounds everywhere, from hotels to furniture stores to museums. The city’s four-story department store, Illums Bolighus, is one of the many places to check out—and purchase—furniture, lamps, housewares, and accessories shaped by this functional and clean aesthetic.

Beautiful, clean, historic, and fun—Copenhagen is a Nordic treasure. Experience all this and more with Context Travel private tours. Hav det sjovt (have fun!)

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