The coolest, most cosmopolitan, most exciting and, yes, Danny Kaye was right, the most
wonderful city in Scandinavia (don’t argue
Stockholm): welcome to Copenhagen (København).
These days the Danish capital is blossoming. There is a spring in its step borne from a mixture of some brave new architecture, continued prosperity and a burgeoning confidence in its own charms. There are more cafés and restaurants than ever and, more importantly, the locals are learning how to use them. It used to be that Copenhageners ate out on special occasions only and nights out were restricted to Friday and Saturday only, but that’s all changed. Even on a wet Wednesday in February the bars and cafés will be buzzing, that all important
hyggelige (cosy) atmosphere fostering a uniquely Danish sense of wellbeing and conviviality.
In a way, the rest of the world woke up to how great this historic city of canals, cobbled squares and copper spires was before the locals did, but it is at last sinking in that the world now looks to Copenhagen for the best in design, architecture and fashion and is beginning also to notice the extraordinary culinary revolution that has taken place here over the last decade.
If you are looking for an earthy, hardcore travel experience look elsewhere. Copenhagen is clean, safe and ridiculously easy to get to know, the locals all speak superb English and the transport system makes London’s look like it’s on the verge of a nervous breakdown. It usually makes the top five, if not the top spot, in those ‘most liveable city’ lists. And if you are looking for a budget destination, you might also want to reconsider your plans.
This is not a cheap city by any means, but then neither is it any more expensive than any other major European city – London and
Paris will hit your pocket harder.
Show in Lonely PlanetReady to go?These tours & activities make it easy:
Boasting one of the country’s great medieval cityscapes – an eye-catching ensemble of red-brick palazzi, Renaissance towers and 40km of arcaded porticoes – Bologna is a wonderful alternative to the north’s more famous cities. Italy’s culinary capital, it’s an attractive, animated place; a large student population and active gay scene ensure a vitality that’s so often missing in many of Emilia’s smaller towns.
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