Meandering Through Copenhagen’s Museums

Models of Vor Frue Kirke's Christ and the Aposltes can be closely examined in Thorvaldsen's Museum. 

Did you know the famous furniture designer who designed what Americans call “The Chair” was Danish?  Or that one of the world’s important sculptors was from Denmark?  Or that a brewer created an entire museum filled with art for the city of Copenhagen?  Among the many things to do in Copenhagen, there are a number of museums that are well worth a visit. 

Copenhagen's Churches: Ships, Swans, Staircases, and Statues

Stunning views of Copenhagen from atop Vor Frelsers Kirke.

While Denmark is an archipelago and Copenhagen is situated on one of Denmark’s islands and riddled with canals and waterways, it is sometimes easy to forget somehow that this cosmopolitan country has an extensive seafaring history.  However, visiting Denmark’s churches provides a reminder as most of the churches have model ships hanging from the ceilings, something you don’t often see in a European church.  Denmark’s churches have for centuries been visited by women praying for the safe return of their seafaring fathers, brothers, husbands, and sons.  This is just one of the unusual and unique features you will see when visiting some of Copenhagen’s churches during your travels.

Leave a Slot in Your Schedule for Copenhagen Palaces and Castles

One of three silver lions guarding the coronation chairs in The Knights' Hall of Rosenborg Castle.

Christiansborg Slot, Amalienborg Slot, and Rosenborg Slot are all located in Copenhagen’s historic center.  But what is a slot, you might ask.  Has Copenhagen turned into a gambler’s destination?  Slot is actually the Danish word for castle or palace, and Denmark is littered with slots, including three in Copenhagen which have all housed the royal family at some point in history.  

96 Hours of Michelin in Copenhagen

The Standard, a waterfront dining location containing one of Copenhagen's newest Michelin-starred restaurants, Studio.

Copenhagen is one of the most Michelin-starred cities in the world, laying claim to 18 Michelin stars held by 15 of its restaurants. Given Copenhagen’s small size, most of its Michelin-starred restaurants are easy to get to, and many can be reached with a short walk.  What makes Copenhagen’s Michelin-starred restaurants unique is that many of them serve the New Nordic Cuisine and use ingredients exclusive to this area of the world. 

10 Top Copenhagen Experiences

Copenhagen's colorful Nyhavn.

Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital city, the residence of the Danish royal family, and Denmark’s most popular travel destination.  There is a long list of things to do in Copenhagen, which is why we devoted four full days to the city.  Copenhagen has palaces, churches, and museums galore.  With so many attractions that will appeal to a variety of travelers, it’s impossible to list the best.  But here is my attempt to list 10 top Copenhagen experiences that will introduce a traveler to the uniqueness Copenhagen has to offer.

Noma: The World’s Best Restaurant

Nordic coconuts at noma.

Noma, Copenhagen’s two Michelin star restaurant run by chef-owner Rene Redzepi, recently regained its title as the world’s best restaurant on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.  Noma had previously been named world’s best restaurant three years in a row, but lost the title in 2013 when it was demoted to number two.  With two Michelin stars and the title of the world’s best restaurant, obtaining a reservation at this 45-seat restaurant is extremely difficult.  But if you’re lucky enough to get a lunch or dinner reservation at noma, you are in for quite a New Nordic Cuisine experience.