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A royal time in Copenhagen

25th September 2007

Capital of Denmark and home to the nation's royal family, Copenhagen exudes majesty.

The city, which sits on the eastern shore of Zealand in the Øserund region of Scandinavia, was an inspiration to Shakespeare when he wrote Hamlet. The Renaissance-era castle of Kronborg in Elsinore is just one of the sights which will ring familiar with fans of the play.

While Shakespeare's Danish prince may have come to a sticky end, the modern-day Danish royal family are alive and well - as are many of their residences. The changing of the guard can be watched every day at Queen Margrethe's home, Amalienborg Palace.

On the Slotsholmen island can be found Christiansborg Palace, the home of the country's government, while the crown jewels are on display at the centrally located Rosenborg.

Despite its current splendour, Copenhagen's beginnings were as a humble fishing harbour. Its growth into a seafaring force can be witnessed at the Viking Ship Museum. A respect for the surrounding waters has remained in the modern age, with harbour and canal tours providing visitors with a chance to explore the city by boat. The Little Mermaid monument on the Mermaid Banks is also an icon of the city.

If the mood for a leisurely stroll takes hold, then Copenhagen's squares and streets offer a universe of opportunities. The Strøget is Europe's longest pedestrianised street, complete with a wealth of designer shops, and it leads to the vast Copenhagen City Hall Square.

Why not take a break in Copenhagen.

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