Fairytale Kingdom

A family trip to the land of Hans Christian Andersen
is every bit as magical as his stories.

photographed by monika elena
text by elizabeth bentley

It was the home of one of the greatest storytellers the world has ever known, and provided the inspiration for one of the greatest playwrights. If you ever wondered whether Copenhagen was worth a trip, then wonder no more. It’s a place where imaginations run wild.

Come summer, the parks and gardens come alive with locals and tourists basking in the late evening sunshine. One of the continent’s oldest pleasure gardens, the Tivoli, throngs with concert-goers, thrillseekers and nature lovers out for a stroll. Cafés spill onto the streets and the national obsession with ice cream reaches a fever pitch.

But even in winter, Copenhagen is a haven of delights. Since a good many months are spent in sub-zero conditions, the Danes have perfected the art of entertaining children indoors. Children are welcomed and catered for in some of the finest galleries and museums in Europe.

So don’t be shy. Your own Copenhagen fairytale awaits.

SEE
Kronberg Castle
The setting for Shakespeare’s greatest play, this impressive Renaissance castle stirs the imaginations of young and old. Kids will love hearing about the legend of Holger Danske, the stone figure who, legend has it, will come alive when Denmark is threatened by a foreign enemy. 3000 Helsingør, Denmark. Phone: +45 4921 3078.

Circus Museum
Watch them juggle or act the clown at this fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the greatest show on earth. Come away with great memories and wild stories from the circus world. Hovedporten 6, 2650 Hvidovre. Phone: +45 3649 0030.

Tivoli
You’ll find it hard to tear yourselves away from the delights of one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. Older kids will thrill to the wild rides, while littlies will love the Dragon Boats and the beautiful park. The concert halls and theatres will satisfy the hungriest of culture hounds. A/S 3 Vesterbrogade, DK – 1630. Phone: +45 3315 1001.

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Art isn’t just for adults. The Louisiana provides space for kids to explore their own creative side with a range of stimulating activity workshops. While they’re busy honing their talents, you can discover some of the most exciting contemporary art in the world today. Gl. Strandvej 13, 3050 Humlebæk. Phone: +45 4919 0791.

SMK: National Gallery of Denmark
One of the best things about Danish culture is that it includes all ages. Here, there’s a special Children’s Museum of Art, with exhibitions at children’s eye level. The permanent collections also have special Children’s Stations where kids can explore art in new, kid-centric ways. Sølvgade 48-50, DK-1307 Copenhagen K. Phone: +45 3374 8494.

Experimentarium
Weather not too welcoming? This techno-savvy museum offers hours of absorbing hands-on investigations into what makes things work. Sail a ship through a series of locks, pump water or build a house with a big crane. Tuborg Havnevej 7 – 2900, Hellerup. Phone: +41 3927 3333.

EAT
Royal Cafe
They need food, you need retail therapy. This quirky establishment combines both. Inside there’s an eclectic décor the owners call ‘Funky Baroque’ and a fun fusion of traditional Danish smørrebrod and sushi called Smushie as well as homemade Danish cakes and desserts. While they’re filling up, you can get your fill of some of the best Danish brands, including Georg Jensen and Bang & Olufsen. Amagertorv 6, 1160 Copenhagen K. Phone: +45 3312 1122.

The á la Menthe
You may wonder what a Moroccan teahouse is doing so close to the North Pole, but once inside and downstairs in this snug, cushion-covered homage to the Orient, you’ll be too interested in sampling their Moroccan delicacies and sipping some refreshing mint tea to care. Radhusstræde 5 B, Copenhagen K. Phone: +45 3333 0038.

La Glace
Any visit to Copenhagen must include a stop at La Glace. Founded in the middle of the city in 1870, it’s the oldest and arguably the best confectionery in Denmark. Breakfasts are a treat, but many wait until later in the day when they can indulge in one of the over-the-top cakes and a mug of sublime hot chocolate. Skoubogade 3, 1158 Copenhagen K. Phone: +45 3314 4646.

SHOP
Retro Villa
Bring home more than just memories. How about some original retro wallpaper from Retro Villa? Owner and designer Mette Helena Rasmussen has developed a unique, vivid style that’s just perfect for kids. You’ll also find beautiful handmade accessories in-store. Badstuestræde 17, 1209 Copenhagen K. Phone: +45 3315 4058.

Crème de la Crème à la Edgar
Put this store on the top of your shopping list. It’s a downstairs space selling the most beautiful handmade lovelies. Browse some of the world’s most sought-after kids brands, including Holly’s Baby, Marimekko and Finger in the Nose, as well as treasures designed by owner Helle Høgsbro Krag herself. Møntergade 10, DK-1116 Copenhagen K. Phone: +45 3336 1818.

Take LMNOP’s Copenhagen City Tour here.

READ THE FULL STORY
Visit more places in Copenhagen in LMNOP Magazine, Issue 14.
Download it now

Photo Credits: Monika Elena


Leave a Comment