Copenhagen

Possibly the most cosmopolitan of all the Scandinavian cities. In the good old days, Denmark was a major power, and a center of art, architecture, literature and culture in the continent. After Norway, Copenhagen definitely has a big city feel to it. The Little Mermaid is on every tourist’s list, as is Hamlet’s castle in Helsingor – Kronborg Castle. There is a lovely park near the Mermaid statue, where one can take a long stroll. As for Helsingor, do note – its some distance away from the city center, best to keep half a day for it. It’s a medieval castle, by the sea coast, with everyday objects like beds, chairs etc retained from the olden days. Another interesting legend here is that of Holgar the Dane, a mythical figure who will rise to protect Denmark if it is ever in danger.

For shopping, there are flea markets as well as the famous Sorget. A visit to the Copenhagen Zoo is well recommended. And finally, do visit Tivoli – the second oldest amusement park in the world (the oldest is also in Copenhagen, but in the suburbs). Here, you have an old world charm – families picnicking on the lawns, mini concerts, wooden roller coasters – it retails the charm of a bygone era, and you cant help but feel nostalgic.