Pretty, colourful Copenhagen offers a wealth of must-see attractions and experiences. The capital city of Denmark is a popular destination for short breaks where visitors can experience a host of famous attractions and soak up the culture and atmosphere of this unique city.

And with regular low-cost flights to Copenhagen, it’s easier than ever to get out there and experience yourself! Here are our seven favourite reasons to visit Copenhagen.

1 – The Little Mermaid

This statue of Han’s Christian Anderson’s literary creation is Denmark’s most famous landmark and whilst it won’t take you long to visit and take a look, it mustn’t be missed. You’ll find her on the edge of Langelinie Wharf where she has sat ever since she was presented to the city in 1913 by Carl Jacobsen.

the little mermaid

2 – Noma

Voted the World’s Best Restaurant for three years running from 2010 to 2012, Noma is an unmissable culinary delight during your visit to Copenhagen. The dishes are inventive, fresh and new but as with any restaurant of this calibre, you will need to book early to get a table reservation.

3 – Amalienborg Palace

Home of the Danish Royal family since the 18th Century, this historical palace in the Rococo-style is a must-see attraction. The changing of the guard takes place at midday every day so try to time your visit to be there for this.

4 – Tivoli Gardens

Known locally just as Tivoli, this 21-acre park consists of a large theme park, gardens and places to eat, drink and relax. There really is something for everyone here – children’s rides, fast rides that will appeal to teenagers and adults, a host of beautiful flowers and fountains in the landscaped gardens and more than 111,000 lights that illuminate the park at night. You could easily spend a whole day just in Tivoli enjoying the amusements, people-watching and dining in one of the many eateries.

5 – Strøget

For keen shoppers, Strøget offers Europe’s longest vehicle-free shopping street. It runs from City Hall Square at one end to Kongens Nytorv at the other and is over 1.1 kilometres long. Here you can find everything from top designers to high street names and individual boutique shops. There is always something happening on this street, especially at the weekend when numerous buskers can be seen entertaining the shoppers. Nearby Amagertorv Square there are often performances by magicians and acrobats as well as busking musicians.

6 – Copenhagen Zoo

Home to over 3000 animals, Copenhagen zoo is a popular attraction, particularly for those with children. In the children’s zoo section, children can pet everything from rabbits and guinea pigs, to pygmy goats and snakes. Check out the feeding times of the different animals and watch seals, sea-lions or chimpanzees being fed. There are restaurants at the zoo as well as numerous outdoor picnic areas.

7 – The Opera House

Located in Christianshavn, an area of Copenhagen which is just across the water from the Royal Palace, the Opera House offers amazing acoustics for taking in a show or concert but it is also open during the day to visit. If you wish to see a show, there is much on offer – everything from ballet to opera to modern music concerts. Danish architect Henning Larsen designed the Opera House and the marble-clad foyer offers stunning views of Copenhagen. Guided tours for groups can be organised of the Opera House

With so much going on in Copenhagen, these seven attractions and experiences are just some of the things you must-see when visiting, but strolling around the city, taking in the culture and local life is also a great way to spend the day.

Guest post from Jon Piggins who is a writer and travel addict. He’s been on city breaks to most European capitals and loves to pass on his tips and experiences.