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Copenhagen from a cruise liner

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In 2008 an astounding half a million cruise passengers docked at Langelinie pier north of downtown Copenhagen to stretch their legs for anything from a couple of hours to a day or two. It can be hard to get the best out of a big city in such a short space of time, but here we offer our pick of Copenhagen’s sights, as well as some recommendations on where to enjoy a meal or a drink, all within a gentle 15-minute stroll of Langelinie Quay.

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Author: Jane Graham

Day 1 - Copenhagen

Watch the parade of the Royal Guard as they make their way from Amalienborg Palace daily at noon, or just enjoy strolling around the splendid rococo square with its various palace buildings. Amalienborg Gardens may date from a far later period than the neighbouring mansion, but the fountains and the flower beds are delightful to stroll around.

It’s a bit of a tourist trap and generally something of an anticlimax, but the walk up to the statue of the Little Mermaid is so pleasant that it doesn’t really seem to matter. Once you’ve people-watched enough, enjoy the park around the Kastellet citadel, with what’s left of its ramparts and moat to help you imagine times gone by.

Stop for lunch at Cafe Oscar, on the corner of Bredgade and Esplanaden, before window shopping in the private art galleries and pricey antique shops further down the street. Don’t miss Kunstindustrimuseet, the Danish Museum of Applied Arts, housed in a wonderful old building that was once Copenhagen’s first hospital.

Finally, don’t forget Nyhavn, an old harbor street reborn as a tourist hotspot. Close by on Kongens Nytorv, Cafe A Porta is one of the oldest in the city, and a recent facelift combines the classic with the smart.

If your wallet can afford it, join the jetsetters with a meal at swanky Custom House on the waterfront, and enjoy the view that includes both the national Opera House and Copenhagen’s new Playhouse.

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