Overview

Copenhagen – what comes to mind when one thinks of the Danish capital? Perhaps Danish/Scandinavian design, Vikings, cafés, cinnamon buns; all of which is true.

But what is also true is that this Nordic city offers so much more: exquisite dining, open spaces to relax, a vibrant, bustling atmosphere for students, families, and, anyone, really.

First impressions

Between the architecture and water life, Copenhagen reminded me of Hamburg and Stockholm, which, I suppose makes sense given the northern European maritime connection. Its Nordic chic vibes are near impossible to not fall in love with.

Visiting again after my first trip 13 years prior allowed me to take in the city with fresh eyes. Based on the water, Copenhagen is deeply connected to it – whether it’s the many canals through which merchants traded, or the harbors, from which the catch of the day makes its way into the city’s restaurants.

 

Getting close to the culture

Copenhagen is an old settlement: its most notable history, of course, includes its role during Viking times. For a deeper dive into this history, I would highly recommend a visit to the Nationalmuseet, which covered national history as well.

Copenhagen also bore witness, of course, to many other eras that have left their marks on the city: the spread of Christianity, disease and hardships during the Middle Ages, the Enlightenment and subsequent movements, through industrialization and beyond – each chapter of history contributing to modern-day Copenhagen.

Food

Over the centuries, Danes have had to be resourceful and survive on what was naturally available to them – fish, root vegetables, pork, and so on. The result? Classics you might love or hate – but always unapologetically Danish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In recent years, Danish and other Nordic cuisines have garnered much attention as part of the “New Nordic” cuisine movement. Rooted in local traditions, New Nordic cuisine puts a sophisticated spin on classics while maintaining authentic local flavors.

And if there’s one food group in particular Danes love (aside from perhaps fish), it’s pastries – and they do them well.

I’ve had cinnamon buns in Sweden, Norway, and now Denmark – I can safely say the cinnamon bun from Skt. Peders Bageri is the best cinnamon bun I’ve ever had in my life; truly life-changing. While I might not be a local, I have a sweet tooth, and am painfully particular about what I expect in a cinnamon bun, and this one had it all. As a New Yorker, I tend to avoid lines for trendy places, but this bun was worth the wait. Honorable mention also goes to the cardamom bun, which packed an exquisite cardamom punch.

Final thoughts

Here are a few things about Copenhagen I’ll take with me, including what I’d do differently next time: