The easiest way to understand a city and its culture is to jump right in. As with every location, Copenhagen has its unique sights, smells, and sounds. Here's a guide to eating local, finding the trendy spots in town, and chasing down that famous Danish hygge.
Eating like the locals in Copenhagen
If you are a foodie, Copenhagen is the right place to be! The city has everything from traditional Nordic cuisine with a modern twist to street fare like hot dogs.
Smørrebrød
First up: the Danish 'smørrebrød'. The word translates to 'buttered bread' but luckily, this open-faced sandwich comes with a wide variety of toppings. This is a favoured lunchtime treat for students and professionals. Smørrebrød can be found everywhere from convenience stores to restaurants. Try one with salmon and pickled radish on rye to fit in with the locals.
Pølse
Hot dogs are popular in Denmark's neighbouring countries as well, although the 'rød pølse' or red sausage is a favourite among the Danes. In recent years, hot dog stands around the cities have upped their game by offering a variety of sausages (including meat-free and vegan options), bread types, and extra toppings. As you stroll around the city, stop at any 'pølsevogn' to get your taste of this local delicacy. Ketchup and mustard are recommended!
Local favourites
City parks
If you want to get a taste of how the locals soak up the sun in Copenhagen, head to one of the many parks in the city on a summer's day. With sprawling grounds and romantic tree-lined pathways all-year-round, Frederiksberg Gardens (known locally as Frederiksberg Have) is a must.
The park also features Frederiksborg Slot, a picturesque palace used by the royal family until the mid-19th century. Grab your smørrebrød and enjoy it alongside the locals in Copenhagen's largest park. Make sure to lock up your bike outside the gardens! As with most parks in the city, bikes are prohibited.
Nyhavn
Although expensive, Nyhavn is a must for newcomers to Copenhagen. Nyhavn, which means 'New Harbour', is actually home to several historic buildings that provide a glimpse into the city's history as a trading port. The iconic row of colourful houses lining the canal is simply picture perfect.
The area is filled with tourists and locals alike, crowding into the bars and restaurants that serve cold beers in summer and warm comfort food in winter. Stop at one of the crowded restaurants if you can manage to find a spot and get a taste of the local life.
Stroll around the different areas in Copenhagen
Danish people are laidback, and Copenhagen fittingly has a lot of places to hang out. Whether you decide to check out a stylish café or a local art gallery, take the time to stroll around like a local and pop into any place that catches your eye.
Jægersborggade is an upcoming area with a hipster feel and lots of trendy spots. This area is a favourite with locals and for a good reason: juice bars, dining establishments, and coffee shops crowd the small street. On warm days, grab a drink and head over to Dronning Louise's Bridge to see how the locals like to hang out in the city centre.
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