Over 300 cruise ships call every year at the port in Copenhagen, which was named Europe’s top cruise destination each year from 2004 to 2008. The largest city in Scandinavia, Copenhagen is a charming capital with 17th and 18th century architecture and winding cobblestone streets. Also home to one of the world’s oldest monarchies, the port is a great starting point for cruises to the Baltic countries, St. Petersburg, and even the British Isles and Greenland.

How to get to Copenhagen

Arriving in Copenhagen, you will debark at either the Langeline Pier or the Freeport Terminal. Langeline Pier is an easy walk from the city center, but you might also take a taxi, a waterbus from the end of the pier or bus #26, which runs about every 20 minutes.  Free city bikes are also nearby – you can check one out for the day if you prefer to pedal your way around Copenhagen.

From Freeport Terminal, shuttle buses run into the city center, as does bus #26, and taxis are also available.

One Day in Copenhagen

Start your visit with a short walk from Langeline Pier to see the famous Little Mermaid Statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen.  Then, head to the Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family since the late 18th century (if you’re lucky, you might catch the changing of the guard). From there, make your way to the Christiansborg Palace, which now houses the Danish Parliament and Supreme Court. There, don’t miss taking a peak at the ruins of the 12th century Bishop Absalon castle underneath the palace.

Stop for lunch at one of Copenhagen’s many outdoor cafes or grab a quick bite to eat at a sausage wagon around town, offering 50 different types of hot dogs.  Then you might head to Rosenberg Castle for a closer look at some royal family artifacts and the closely guarded crown jewels or check out one of Copenhagen’s world class museums.  Enjoy masterpieces by Rembrandt or Matisse at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts or visit the large collection of anthropological artifacts at the National Museum. Fans of Hans Christian Andersen won’t want to miss the museum founded in honor of his 200th birthday in 2005.

Shopping buffs will want to head to the pedestrian area known as Stroget, which is the largest outdoor retail area in Europe. There you can find everything from Viking-themed souvenirs to trendy designer boutiques to the flagship store of Royal Copenhagen porcelain.
Conclude your day in Copenhagen strolling through the Tivoli Gardens or climbing the 400 steps up to the top of the steeple of the Our Savior’s Church for sweeping views of the city.

Langeline Pier offers a variety of shops and cafes nearby, as well as the Copenhagen Information Center, a currency exchange and ATMs.  At the Information Center, you can buy the Copenhagen Card, which offers discounts or free entry to numerous sights and museums throughout the city. The local language is Danish, but most locals speak at least some English. The currency is the krone and credit cards are accepted throughout the city.