26 Jan Copenhagen – a great wedding, honeymoon or celebration destination
I was fortunate to visit Copenhagen in the summer of 2024 to conduct a wedding ceremony – without the legals! I was totally blown away with its beauty. It’s a great wedding, honeymoon or milestone celebration destination. Or actually for any other reason. Here’s why!
Three surprising things about Copenhagen
Three things surprised me about Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark. I knew it as the home of Tassie expat Queen Mary and was a foodie destination. It was once the home to the world’s most acclaimed restaurant, Noma (now closed). I was also familiar with the enviable Danish design aesthetic.
But I didn’t know that:
#1. Bicycles rule!
Bicycles are the preferred mode of transport and are everywhere! In fact, 9 out of 10 Danes own a bicycle. However, unlike Amsterdam (more on that in another blog), the riders follow the road rules (!). So it all works in perfect harmony. Hire a bicycle to join in the fun.
#2. You can swim (safely) or cruise the harbour and canals with ease
Unlike Paris, which made efforts to clean up the Seine for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, people swim in Copenhagen’s harbour for pleasure. There are numerous harbourside swimming baths dotted along its canals where people can be found enjoying the sun and clean water in the summer months. While I was there, I even witnessed a fun-swimathon. You might want to jump in or take a canal cruise to learn about the city from the safety of your water vessel!
#3. There are LOTS of palaces!
Denmark is a parliamentary democracy and is governed by consensus. This might seem a bit odd, considering they also have one of the world’s oldest monarchies, dating back over a thousand years. Luckily the ‘royal fam’ is much loved, and the people of Denmark are rightly proud of their highnesses. Especially the four awesome palaces in Copenhagen alone. There are a total of nine across Denmark. Visit Amalienborg Palace in the heart of the city which is the Royal Family’s main residence, as a starting point. Then head further afield to Frederiksborg Palace to discover 500 years of Danish history.
Three loveable things about Copenhagen
Copenhagen definitely lends itself to romance and celebration if you are considering it as a wedding or honeymoon destination.
Here’s why:
#1. Getting around is super easy
The Copenhagen metro will take you wherever you want to go! I recommend hopping on the metro as soon as you fly into the city. It is super easy and costs only 36 DKK (~ AU$8) – a third of the cost of a taxi (there are no Ubers in Copenhagen).
#2. The architecture and design are insanely beautiful
The Danes are super proud of their contribution to the global aesthetic. From the Danish Design Centre to the Danish Architecture Centre, and a myriad of homeware, fashion, accessories and furniture shops in-between, Copenhagen is a feast for design lovers. Start at the Danish Architecture Centre for a history of Danish design from the Viking era to today. Australians will be familiar with the Opera House architect Jørn Utzon. However, if you love the work of other influential designers such as Hans J. Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, Georg Jensen, Ole Lynggaard, and Henning Larsen, you will be spoilt for choice!
#3. The Danish pastries and breads are to die for
Try scrolls and puffs filled with cinnamon, chocolate or custard cream. Or sourdough bread of every shape and size. And that’s just for breakfast! There are bakeries on every corner, so just head outside or make a b-line for any number of famous establishments.
Three memorable things about Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a memory-making city. Here’s why:
#1. It’s a great city for children!
As I was travelling with my daughter’s family, including a toddler and baby, we spent a fair amount of time exploring child-friendly activities. One of these was the Children’s Museum, which is one of the most amazing kids’ places I have ever visited. It is an immersive historical experience complete with Viking ship, Medieval kitchen and life-sized dolls’ houses. The world’s second-oldest amusement park at Tivoli Gardens is also definitely worth a visit. In terms of playgrounds, check out Skydebanehaven which is a haven of fun, decked out with bicycles, scooters and go-carts!
#2. There are some great restaurants if you know where to go
If you are partial to smoked fish then Copenhagen will fit the bill! But don’t worry, there are plenty of options for casual and fine dining and I can recommend Mielcke & Hurtigkarl in Frederiskberg – a classy, intimate restaurant in a gorgeous parkland setting. I was fortunate to conduct the commitment ceremony in the nearby park and was a guest at the reception at this gorgeous venue, so it is one of those unforgettable memories I will treasure forever! It made me realise what a great wedding, honeymoon or milestone celebration destination Copenhagen can be.
#3. The Danish notion of hygge is real!
Hygge is about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with people you love. As I was travelling with family, I definitely got the hygge vibe. It helped that we were staying in a family-friendly, four bedroom apartment close to the city centre, yet far enough removed from the tourist traps to feel cosy and authentic. A once-in-a-lifetime experience!
If you enjoyed this article please feel free to leave a comment or share on social media. If you have been inspired, contact me to schedule a time to discuss how I can help you to create your dream celebration.