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Welcome to Copenhagen, Denmark – capital of the happiest country in the world
Well, apparently not anymore but it was the reason I wanted to go. Who wouldn’t want to know the happiest country on earth?!
There are many words that are synonymous with Copenhagen these days. Architecture. Design. Foodie. Cool. What I find fascinating about Copenhagen is that it’s on SO MANY people’s TO-DO lists but so few have been YET. I managed to tack it onto a trip to Europe by adding a few extra days to explore and I’m so glad I made it a ‘Great Escape’.
Copenhagen is a compact city that is super easy to navigate. In fact, more than 50% of Copenhageners commute by bike. Awesome – right?! It’s got everything you want in a big city – culture, shopping, gastronomy – yet you’ll never feel overwhelmed here. The vibe that is Copenhagen is laid-back, open-minded, cutting-edge & cosmopolitan. Definitely all the makings of a VERY Lola Approved destination.
noma
Unless you are a complete foodie or really “in the know”, you may not realize the TOP RESTAURANT in the world for 3 years running is in Copenhagen. Well, I didn’t know that’s for sure. noma, a 2 Michelin starred restaurant, was at the forefront of the Danish food movement known as ‘New Nordic Kitchen”. What is that? It’s the reinvention of Nordic cuisine taking fresh, local ingredients and mixing that with gastronomic diversity instead of looking abroad for influences. AND clearly it’s been a WINNER. Pssst though…the head chef of noma is starting a new venture in mid-summer.
Manfreds & Vin
Manfreds & Vin is a hotspot amongst the hipster locals serving everyday rustic food with quality ingredients. The force behind the restaurant is none other than the team from Relæ, another famous 1 Michelin star Copenhagen restaurant started by two alumni of noma fame. Both Manfreds & Vin and Relæ are located on Jaegersborgadd, an up-and-coming address.
I particularly enjoyed the tasting menu for dinner with wine pairings. Manfreds & Vin is Copenhagen’s first natural wine bar. How cool! Serving small plates of in-season organic roots & vegetables as well as organically raised meats like lamb and pig. The herbs and sauces couldn’t have complimented the courses any better. AND it was a hopping little spot. Definitely a see and be seen affair.
Halifax
Copenhagen has been experiencing a gourmet burger movement over the past few years and offers several different options for places to get your next BEST burger. Halifax is one of the top places frequented by locals, offering a big selection of exotic burgers inspired by different parts of the world. Sounds delicious!
Wine Bar
Lola was lucky enough to have a local Copenhagener to show me some of the top spots for drinks. Bibendum is one of Copenhagen’s best wine bars located in a cosy, rustic cellar on trendy Nansensgade. We enjoyed a delicious Italian red amongst locals but with over 30 selections of wines almost any wino would be happy!
Champagne Bar
Balthazar, located at Hotel d’Angleterre – which will reopen in May 2013, is Denmark’s first champagne bar. Offering a selection of more than 200 champagnes, Balthazar is the place to start a party. Plus, you can enjoy tapas, caviar service and live DJ’s on weekends.
Hand-crafted Cocktail Bars
Now for my favorite of drink finds, Salon 39 and 1105. Lola has a love for the hand-crafted cocktail and these two places did not let me down. Salon 39 had a FAB cocktail menu. I tried the Cowboy Negroni because I’m currently having a love affair with the Negroni cocktail. It was the VERY BEST Negroni I’ve had to date. BUT this wasn’t the cocktail winner. Corporate Stooge gets the prize here. Made with Fighting Cock, D.O.M. Benedictine, Maple Syrup, Orange Curacao & Celery Bitters, it was tasty but its presentation is really the bomb! Corporate Stooge is served in a hip flask hidden inside a book – how fun is that??!
My final cocktail in cool Copenhagen was partaken at 1105. The mixmaster behind the bar whipped up something special called ‘Unfaithful’ – a classic cocktail with licorice, which is quite popular in Denmark. Listed on Condé Nast Traveler’s exclusive list of the trendiest, international bars, 1105 is a stylish spot that makes you feel instantly welcome. The name of the game here is classic drinks skillfully crafted with top-quality ingredients.
Ibsens
Ibsens is where fresh, funky and functional intersect. This 3-star, 118 room hotel had so much to offer in terms of comfort and culture for Copenhagen. Located on Nansensgade, which is known with Danes to be the very essence of ‘Nordic Cool’ – the hipsters hang out here. There aren’t any well-known brands or chain stores only charming cafes, original designers, art galleries and second-hand book shops. What’s truly amazing about Ibsens is that they’ve brought this spirit inside their property. Everything from room key chains, pillows & tables, even books & records are brought in by local designers! Ibsens is so completely HIP – they are the first hotel to accept artmoney as a form of payment. (more about this below) Other awesome features of Ibsens is their breakfast bar with healthy organic sandwiches and breakfast in a glass concept as well as their daily wine hour. Whether you are a solo traveler or with others, this is such a fantastic way to socialize with the staff and other guests. Bottom line, if you are looking for the essence of what is Copenhagen, Ibsens is the place for you.
Hotel Kong Arthur
Situated between the inner lakes of Copenhagen and nearby buzzing downtown, the 4-star luxury Hotel Kong Arthur offers you a cozy, informal atmosphere to relax and rest your head. The 155 room property feels much more like a little village within the city. As soon as you step inside the oasis of Kong Arthur you will be treated with warm hospitality and a homey feeling will welcome you. A completely forward thinking hotel, Kong Arthur is a part of the world’s first CO2 neutral hotel chain. Other property features are Copenhagen’s biggest spa, Ni’mat, as well as 3 restaurant offerings and high-quality conference facilities. For the business or leisure traveler alike, Hotel Kong Arthur will cover all your needs.
D’Angleterre
Hotel d’Angleterre, the oldest hotel in Denmark built in 1755, is wrapping up the most ambitious restoration in Danish hotel history. Scheduled to reopen its doors May 2013, this Leading Hotels of the World property has a long-standing history as the ultimate in luxury properties. When d’Angleterre reopens it will house 90 rooms with the latest & greatest of everything. Refurbished function rooms and a brand new spa/fitness center will keep its history going strong as a place to welcome the worlds’ dignitaries, heads of state and celebrities.
Canal Tour
Even on an icy cold January day the Canal Tours Copenhagen was one of the best ways to see Copenhagen. I always say if a city is surrounded by water, you have to get out on it to see the city from another prospective. So much of Copenhagen’s history is steeped in maritime stories of trade and defense from this vantage point. The tour takes you through old & new Copenhagen, traveling by way of narrow idyllic canals and visiting some of the most important buildings in the capital city.
Design Museum
To get a real sense of Denmark, a visit to the Designmuseum Denmark might be in order. Danish design has been hailed from all over the world for its timeless simplicity, quality & functionality. Designmuseum Denmark is the perfect place to gain an understanding into how design and society influence one another bringing together the themes of Danish furniture, design and architecture.
Shopping
StrØget is Copenhagen’s largest shopping area and incidentally Europe’s longest pedestrian street. Running through the heart of central Copenhagen, StrØget is the premier shopping street with something for everyone. As you branch off StrØget, you can find other Danish fashion all over the city. Located in the GrØnnegade Quarter are many independent designers so if you’re looking for the next hot thing to come out of Scandinavia this is the place for you. In the Latin Quarter are cheaper hipster stores – both new and second-hand.
Torvehallerne food market is situated at Israels Plads, the location of Copenhagen’s market place since 1889. With over 80 shops, you can find local vegetables, Danish delicacies, fresh fish, the list goes on. Not only is it a delight for your stomach but your eyes too. Don’t miss out on stopping by this gorgeous place for a meal or a quick treat.
A note of thanks to Brochner Hotels for giving me an excellent press rate at their lovely Ibsens Hotel. I’d gladly stay there full boat!
And to VisitCopenhagen for steering me in the right direction on everything and for the Copenhagen Card, which allowed me free access to transport, the Canal Tours Copenhagen, museums and many other discounts.
My visit to Copenhagen made me very happy. So cheers to you, happy little country! If I didn’t ‘Lola Approve’ it I’d say otherwise. The views here are mine, TAK!
artmoney is an original, handmade, unique work of art by registered artmoney artists. The value of artmoney is 200 DK and can be used to purchase goods or services in artmoney shops all over the world. To learn more or to purchase artmoney pictures go to www.artmoney.org
You’ve made me want to go now! Those hotels look fabulous!!!
Andi of My Beautiful Adventures recently posted…Cayman Islands: Day 2 (Part 3)
GREAT Andi! that’s the idea 😉 i want to go back STAT!
I’ve been to Copenhagen, went on a whim two years ago. Awesome. I have never seen so many attractive people in one city at a time. No wonder they’re so happy. 😉
AmandaHalm recently posted…The Not-So Amazing Race
Amanda – i couldn’t agree with you more. i don’t think i’ve ever been anywhere better looking in terms of people 😉
What a fantastic looking city! I’d take a few days there to see the sites and drink the champagne. 😉
Bethaney – Flashpacker Family recently posted…The Best Places to Ski in New Zealand
it really is a great place and i think you can get a real sense of it in just a few days! highly recommend!!
Looks like a great city for a stopover for a few days.
Oooo Id love to go!
I.want.to.go! 😀
Erin Bender (Travel With Bender) recently posted…365 Days Nonstop. A Million Experiences.
you. must. go! 😉
I’m absolutely desperate to go to Copenhagen (even more so after reading your post)! I’m hoping to fit it in for a short 2 night trip later this year – I was worried it wouldn’t give me long enough, but it seems like 2-3 days might be ok to get the vibe of the place and do some good exploring…
Clare recently posted…Travel Regrets? I’ve Had a Few…
YES Clare! 2-3 days is definitely enough. there’s always more but that’s the case anywhere you go!
Happiest country in the world? So much so that they had to outsource to Australia for their Royal family! yeah that’s what’s up… haha, great post Lola, loved my time in Copenhagen, cant wait to go back this year sometime! RELEASE THE CATS!!!!!
Ash Clark recently posted…The Cheapest Place To Get High In New York City
hahaha you are too much Ash. it’s a lovable place that’s for sure. i know you will have fun upon your return. 🙂
Champagne bar??! Sign me up! I’ve always wanted to visit the Scandinavian countries – I hear they’re quite happy up there despite the weather. LOL..
Kieu ~ GQ trippin recently posted…Weekend Getaways: Sonoma Wine Country
yeah, what is that…how can they be so happy with all that cold & snow? i need to know there secret. they are gorgeous there too.
Really looking forward to going there one day soon, I hope.
All the words you mention that go with Copenhagen make me want to go there soon–design, cool, food, etc. Pinning this one for future reference right now!
Jenna recently posted…Florence in Photos through My iPhone, Part 2
it’s so funny Jenna. the word COOL is used soooo much to describe Copenhagen but if you go, you will realize that it’s the perfect adjective. truly such a cool place 🙂
I love Copenhagen, we went this time last year and I still miss it!
i miss it too!! i’d love to see it in the summertime as a contrast. it was so lively in January i can only imagine June or July!
Your trips look some of the most fun of any blogger I know! I like that your travel style is a bit more upscale but not ridiculously so. Since there are so many blogs that are either budget travel or nature focused, this is a nice contrast.
Kate @30Traveler recently posted…4 Quirkiest (And All TV-Themed) Things I’ve Done From My Bucket List
thanks so much Kate. i do think i’m a niche that isn’t widely covered. i do enjoy staying in nice places and doing some great things but i’m not so over the top high end. i pick and choose & i’m always looking for a deal!! 😉
Looks like a lot of fun!
Neeed. to. return. to. Scandinavia.
Tout. de. damn. suite.
Naoooowwww …
fotoeins | Henry recently posted…Sydney Royal Easter Show, 190th edition
i. need. to. return. to. Scandinavia. too. 😉
I wanna go! I’ve never been to Denmark, but REALLY want to. I can pass on the #1 restaurant in the world though. I tend to think they do a lot of really weird stuff that I won’t enjoy. But then again, if I’m in the happiest country in the world, it’s likely not to matter.
Leah Travels recently posted…3 Awesome things to do in Vegas besides Gamble
yeah. it wasn’t even worth dealing with any potential hassle to go to the #1 in my mind. plus so many alumni of noma have started some incredible restos all over Copenhagen that are easier to get into. that’s why i picked Manfreds & Vin. 2 alums from noma started it – it was super hip & delicious. so so fresh!
So wait…are you saying that you didn’t dine at Noma while there. If not, I just might shed a tear of heartbreak…
D.J. – The World of Deej recently posted…Traveler’s Confession – I’m That Guy
sorry to disappoint DJ. no, i didn’t. i opted for a baby brother spin off experience. anyway – lots of people know about noma but did you know about Manfreds & Vin?? 😉
Love your great escapes Lola! Copenhagen looks amazing. Will have to get there one of these days. Those restaurants sound pretty tantalizing too! Will have to find a way back to Europe this year.
Anita Mac recently posted…Stepping into Old World Charm at the Nottoway Plantation
everything was FAB in Copenhagen. i will definitely be returning at some point that’s for sure! i’m confident you’ll get back to Euroland in 2013.
gk ngrti akh
Oh you really did Copenhagen in style! Would love to check out Manfreds and Vin next time I visit! 🙂
Fiona recently posted…Chasing Red: One Man’s Obsession with the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona
you must Fiona!! so so good. so so HIP. 😉
copenhagen looks so adorable. thanks for showing us around, miss lola!
the lazy travelers recently posted…no travel required: #frifotos
so great. you two would love it. people are so fun & friendly. put it on your list.
Omg! I love this! I so want to go to Copenhagen! I’m going to wait for the hotel d’anglaterre to open 😉
it will be in May darling. i’m quite sure that hotel is just your style 😉
Looks like Lola left her mark on Denmark.
Traveling Ted recently posted…Walking Dead popularity due to thirst for adventure travel
oh i don’t know Ted. i loved it. i did feel some love back that’s for sure but it might need more time from moi to be truly #lolafied 😉
Great post on a city I would LOVE to visit!
I see that you got some of the great things Copenhagen has to offer down. Next time you visit, do so in the summer time and do a little island-hopping – then you will see the try danish vibe, that make us the very happiest people in the world 🙂
i’d love to return in the summertime and the island hopping idea sounds right up my alley. i dig your danish vibe. thanks for the tips 🙂
Copenhagen (hell, all of Scandinavia) is high on my list of “want-to-dos”- The price tag is not, but that won’t stop me…. someday
Erik recently posted…The Tombs of the Patriarchs, Hebron
you know what, Eric. i was quite surprised but Copenhagen wasn’t nearly as expensive as i expected it to be. honestly!
I ‘d like to go this summer to Denmark to see most of the country and we are going to spend few days in Copenhague, it looks fantastics!
i hope you love it as much as i did. such a great city!!
Beautiful pics, Lola! And Bibendum looks fabulous!
thanks Miss Charu! it all was fabulous!! <3 Copenhagen
Hej Lola,
Just another idea of things to do Copenhagen, – visit Danish hosts and enjoy a home-cooked Danish meal and great conversation around the dinner table. We have a ‘references’ page on our website, so you can see feedback from guests.
We also have a Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/DineWithTheDanes
LOVE this idea!! when i get back to CPH you can be sure i’ll be booking a night to ‘Dine with the Danes’!!
I love the idea of the canal tour, even on a freezing cold day!
Larissa recently posted…Jerusalem, it’s complicated
Pingback: The Great Escape – Copenhagen, Denmark Edition – where in the world is lola? | where in the world is lola? « I wanna go there!
I love Copenhagen, it’s such a cool city. I stayed at the Kong Arthur and it was gorgeous. They had intimate live gigs in the attic and everyone was just so cool. I definitely need to go back soon!
Monica recently posted…The perfect camping spot at Lake Havasu, Arizona
Great guide to Copenhagen! Looks like I’ve got everything covered if I make it over there some time!
now that we’ll be in london, the hubs and i are majorly prioritizing scandinavia. copenhagen, in particular!
lazy travelers recently posted…city dwellers: new york’s upper east side
Copenhagen is a city I haven’t been to yet, but would love to in the near future. Especially after reading your post …