The heart of Copenhagen is home to this striking spherical tower that was built by Christian IV to advance astronomical research in the country. Built in the 17th century, the Round Tower was originally an observatory connected to Trinitatis Church, and formed part of the Trinitatis Complex. Highlights of this ancient observatory include the gently sloping equestrian staircase, the helical corridor, and the viewing platform at the top of the tower. King Christian IV's monogram is displayed on the building, as is a beautiful lattice designed by Kasper Fincke. Inside the Rundetaarn, the spiral walk leads to the library hall that once functioned as an age-old repository of university books, and was frequented by Danish literary Hans Christian Andersen. With its clever architecture, well-planned interiors and imposing presence, it is no wonder that the Rundetaarn is one of Copenhagen's most iconic landmarks.
The ornate turrets of the regal Rosenberg Castle can be seen piercing the sky from a far distance, much like the far-reaching impact of Danish royalty. Built by charming Danish monarch Christian IV in characteristic Dutch Renaissance style, the castle has an almost fairy-tale-like location in Kongens Have. Rosenborg was originally a summer mansion outside the walls of the city, and was used as the royal residence sometime during the early eighteenth century. The castle is well-renowned for its opulently decorated rooms and copper roof, although the pièce de résistance is the Great Hall. It is known to feature stunning stucco ceilings, royal insignia, delicate frescoes and twelve tapestries that detail the victories of the throne in the Scanian War. The castle is surrounded by moats, and just outside the castle an exquisite rose garden makes its way along the manicured landscape. Ever since the absolutist monarchy, Rosenborg has been the home of the royal crown jewels and also serves as a museum of the royal family.
Christiansborg Slot is home to the Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister's Department. Bishop Absalon built his castle on this site as far back as 1167, though in 1732 the building of a magnificent Baroque castle began at the request of Christian VI. Christianborg had to be rebuilt twice after it burned down, once in 1794 and once in 1880. A third Christiansborg was built between 1907 and 1923 in Baroque style according to architect Thorvald Jørgensen's drawings, and this is the one that stands on the site today. Behind the castle, you'll find stables and grounds that date from Christian VI's old Baroque building. In the summer, the riding grounds are used for theater performances and concerts (jazz, rock and classical music).
Founded in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is a unique amusement park located where the once-fortified city's ramparts used to be. In fact, the on-site lake is a remnant of the city's moat. Known around the world for its infectious carnival-style atmosphere and exciting attractions, Tivoli Gardens combine the charm of the yesteryear with the dynamism of the future. The park spans a staggering 80,000 square meters (861112.8 square feet) of space in the heart of Copenhagen, making it one of the largest amusement parks in the country. Tivoli Gardens has great attractions like a historic rollercoaster, a mythical pirate ship, and magically lit carousels. There are around 40 bars and restaurants, some of which are gourmet and many date as far back as 1843. World-class live entertainment is always provided, and the festivities get kicked into high gear during the Christmas season.
Flanked by the Kastellet and the harbor on either sides, the Gefion fountain is a splendid bronze landmark that regales visitors with stories of a mythical past. The dramatic sculpture was designed by Anders Bundgaard between 1897 and 1899, and is one of the largest monuments to grace the streets of Copenhagen. The fountain features the Norse goddess Gefjun at the rein of a yoke of oxen. If the original Norse saga is to be believed, the four oxen were actually the goddess' sons, who helped her plough the island of Zealand from Sweden. The water spurting out of the oxen's nostrils symbolizes the strength that was put into their work. While the fountain glistens in the sunlight during the day, at nightfall it takes on a turquoise hue that further enhances the mystical nature of the monument.
Rådhuspladsen (City Hall Square) is at the heart of Copenhagen. Here, you'll find the Town Hall and the house of Politiken, where neon signs provide the passers-by with news from all over the world. The Scandic Palace Hotel, outdoor restaurants, newspaper stands and the famous Danish plsevogne (hot dog stands) are all in the vicinity. Rådhuspladsen is an important social meeting point, and a magnificent place to watch the Tivoli fireworks. The square was originally built in the shape of a shell, based on one of the squares in the Italian town of Siena.
Skanörs Kyrka or Skanör Church is a historic church in Skanör. This medieval Lutheran church dates back to the early 13th century and is built in a blend of architectural styles. Its Romanesque nave, Gothic windows and bell tower, medieval baptismal font and cross, and Renaissance altar are highlights in its centuries-spanning architecture.
Designed by celebrated architect Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll, the Thorvaldsens Museum is the inspiration behind the Bertel Thorvaldsens Plads. The public square located in central Copenhagen is a tribute Bertel Thorvaldsens who was a famous Danish sculpture of his time. The striking feature of the square is the layer of cobblestone used to build the area. It is enhanced by a single large tree standing alongside a reflecting pool, which is a geometric spectacle, based on Bertel Thorvaldsens love of geometry.
Frieboeshvile is a country house located in Kongens Lyngby and was constructed in the year 1758. Formerly used as a summer home, Frieboeshvile today is a house museum that gives it's visitors a glimpse of a country home from the 18th Century. The house also displays an exhibition on the local history of Lyngbt-Taarbæk municipality.
Vestindisk Pakhus is an 18th Century building located in Copenhagen, Denmark. Formerly used as a warehouse by the Danish West India Company, the building is now used by National Gallery of Denmark to display the Royal Cast Collection and costumes from the Royal Danish Theatre. The Royal Cast Collection on the lower three floors have 2,000 plaster casts of statues collected from various religious institutions, public places and collections throughout the world. Costumes from the Royal Danish Theatre are showcased on the upper floors. The entrance to the building is free and open to public on Sundays and Tuesdays.
Sankt Ibs Kirke is a Roman church that can be traced back to the 11th Century. The Church is particularly well known for housing an incredible altarpiece and a renaissance pulpit.
Located across the Kirkegade, the Sankt Jørgensbjerg Kirke is an ancient church in the city. For more details, check website or call ahead.