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• PHOTOGRAPH: NICK KARVOUNIS

Long before Halle Bailey made a splash on the big screen in Disney’s live adaptation, the statue of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid has been drawing crowds to Copenhagen’s shores (since 1913, in fact). However, that’s not all there is to see in the chic Scandinavian city.

From swimming with the locals to trialling Copenhagen’s famous restaurant scene, here’s a breakdown of what to do, where to eat and the best places to stay in Denmark’s cool capital.

Consider this your essential guide to Copenhagen’s hotspots, courtesy of FLANNELS.

Lille Bakery

An old industrial site turned idyllic swim spot, the area of Refshaleøen is where you’ll find Lille Bakery. Chill inside or sit amongst the wildflowers and enjoy a freshly made sausage roll (there’s a veggie version) and home-brewed kombucha.

Atelier September

Founded by Frederik Bille Brahe, one of Denmark’s most famous chefs, Atelier September on Gothersgade in the centre of Copenhagen often has queues out the door –– and for good reason. Specialising in vegetarian brunch food, opt for a hearty porridge or a traditional serving of rye bread and soft-boiled eggs.

Søpavillonen

Overlooking the lakes that run through the western part of the city, Søpavillonen was originally built in the 19th century for the Copenhagen Ice Skating Club. Nowadays, it’s home to restaurant Babylon (head here for top-tier oysters), which turns into one of the city’s most popular nightclubs at 11pm. Expect pop bangers, disco balls and dance platforms.

Delphine

The most Instagram-worthy restaurant in the neighbourhood of Vesterbro, Delphine fuses Italian and Greek cuisine together with mouth-watering results. Order the watermelon and feta salad to go with your tuna tartare: best when paired with a bottle of natural wine. There’s even a photo booth for after-dinner entertainment, so make sure you’ve got some Danish kroner to spare.

Granola

Affectionately nicknamed “Little Paris” by locals, Værnedamsvej in Vesterbro is a street lined with restaurants, bars and stunning florists. Here, you’ll find Granola – a café/restaurant with vintage French posters all over the walls. Indulge in the steak tartare and crème brûlée.

Baka d’Busk

Vegetarian? You’re in luck. This plant-based bistro on bustling Rantzausgade in Nørrebro was opened in 2018 by six friends who call themselves “Plantedrengene” (The Plant Boys). The restaurant’s menu changes every season, as all ingredients are sourced locally.

La Banchina

When the sun’s out, everyone heads to La Banchina: another gem located in Refshaleøen. A restaurant set on the water, go for a dip and visit La Banchina’s waterside sauna straight afterwards –– if you’re lucky/organised enough to book beforehand.

Tivoli Gardens

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer having your feet firmly planted on the ground, Tivoli Gardens is a must-see as the second-oldest amusement park in the world. Take a romantic boat ride on the lake or gorge on some cotton candy.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptoteket

A stone’s throw away from Tivoli Gardens, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptoteket Museum was founded in 1897 by Carl Jacobsen –– the heir of Carlsberg beer. Split into modern and ancient collections, the museum features an internal garden complete with palm trees and a classical fountain.

Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK)

Denmark’s national gallery is home to the country’s most comprehensive collection of contemporary art and also features one of the best collections of French art in the world. After your visit, go for a leisurely stroll through The King’s Garden (Kongens Have) located opposite.

Coco Hotel

Cosy and conveniently located, Coco Hotel is situated on Vesterbrogade –– one of the main streets that leads into the heart of the city. Owned by the founders of Delphine, guests of the hotel get a complimentary discount for the restaurant, which is just across the road.

Villa

Opposite Copenhagen’s central station and around the corner from Tivoli Gardens, Villa is a favourite staycation spot for the city’s inhabitants. There’s an outdoor heated rooftop pool (yes, you read that correctly), sauna and terrace bar accompanied by a fragrant herb garden.