I’ve been to Denmark a few times, but only for work. We used to build bars in England, ship them over to Denmark, and fit them on-site, too busy to see the sights. So when my dad discovered last year that my mum had never been to Copenhagen, he jumped at the chance to take her. Naturally, I decided that my family and I would be the annoying tag-alongs!
We flew from Birmingham via Schiphol in the Netherlands to Copenhagen. From there, we hopped on a train and rode three stops to the city centre. Our hotel, Copenhagen Plaza, was perfectly located right outside the station, making our arrival seamless. (Straight out the train station walk across the road and straight into the lobby.) The building is grand and elegant, designed in a classic style, and still features its original central elevator. It only just fit the four of us and my daughter, but it added a lovely touch of old-world charm. My daughter LOVED running into it and would wait to be lifted up to press the button, then watch through the glass as it took us up through the building.
In the lobby, a column displays brass nameplates of famous past guests, including Queen, Bruce Springsteen, and ABBA, to name just a fraction. (Blummin loads of um I tell ya!)
Our room was impressively spacious, featuring a plush bed, two Juliet balconies, a large bathroom, and a cozy lounge area, complete with a set of dumbbells (no joke!) So there was no excuse for me to pump some iron and get a workout! There was also, for some reason… ear plugs…. Strange.
It suited us perfectly and didn’t break the bank either!
My wife’s superpower is finding incredible accommodation at low cost—get in touch if you want her secrets!
We explored the city and enjoyed a Carlsberg 1883 or two—a dark, malty lager. We had a lovely meal at the restaurant next door to the hotel and then checked out the local nightlife. We were right opposite Tivoli Gardens, which was hosting its soft opening, and the area was buzzing with spring cheer.
We stumbled upon Proud Marys, a vibrant pub just off the square and ordered glasses of Tuborg Classic, an old favourite which took my dad and I back to our export days. We would enjoy one or two after a tough day of making man glitter (sawdust), only two though as it was always expensive, still is, although our inflation is catching up and is making it a little less painful to order a beer over there!
At 3 am I found out why there were ear plugs. Someone was parked outside blasting out The Prodigy – out of space. Which I can get with, but not when it is rattling the windows at 3 am…. It also got me thinking, that tune isn’t exactly modern (1992) that is basically the same as someone parking outside a hotel in 1992 and cranking up Cliff Richard’s Living Doll. Could you imagine??
“it’s 3 AM what is that??”
“Got myself a cryin’, talkin’, sleepin’, walkin’, livin’ doll”
The next day, we had one plan… To visit Tivoli. It was opening day, and we were welcomed by brass bands and the park’s famous characters. From the moment you step through its ornate gates, you’re transported into a fairytale world. The park is beautifully landscaped with lush gardens, twinkling lights, and romantic architecture. Whether you’re strolling past the serene lake, watching peacocks roam freely, or admiring the Moorish-style concert hall, every corner feels like a scene from a storybook.
There’s something for everyone: rollercoasters for thrill-seekers, gardens for those who love a scenic stroll (we were lucky to catch the spring blossoms in full bloom), gentle rides and puppet shows for the kiddies, and plenty of restaurants and bars for the you foodies. There’s even a brewery… Belting! Live music, theatre, and ballet performances round out the offering for the culture bugs.
We spent the whole day there and after dining in the food hall in the evening we returned to see the park lit up, which offers a wide variety of international cuisine.
Of course, I had to visit the Hard Rock Café—it’s my thing. I know they’re a bit tacky and touristy, but I love them. I always get a t-shirt and shot glass—but only if I can comply by the rules – more on this in a future blog!
That night, we were woken by random thumps and bangs…. ‘Not that dude again….’ I thought, but no… Tivoli was putting on a fireworks display! We watched it from our balcony, and it was epic, the best I’ve seen since New Year’s Eve in Sydney! Strangely, the fireworks didn’t wake my daughter… which is odd, considering a mouse sneezing usually does! The explosions were filled with colours like green and pink which I don’t think you would normally see in fireworks… I could be wrong, feel free to tell me!
On our last full day, we walked the city, visiting Nyhavn, specifically Nyhavn 17, where my dad had made some tabletops 20 years ago, we were buzzed to see that they were still there! We continued on to Frederik’s Church and Amalienborg Palace to see the changing of the guard. Stunning, impressive buildings.
We also had to visit the Little Mermaid. Poor girl can’t catch a break, it’s probably the busiest attraction in the city! We took a quick photo and moved on to explore the nearby castle grounds, which offered great views, especially of the power station with a ski slope on top. Cool or what!?
Nyhavn was calling again, so we found a table and enjoyed beer and food in the famous harbour. The weather was incredible, wall-to-wall blue skies and perfect spring sunshine.
That night Mum, Dad and I enjoyed cocktails in The Library Bar in the Hotel, This is a hidden gem, an elegant cocktail bar with rich wooden panelling, leather bound books on shelves, oil paintings and chesterfield armchairs. A classy place…. I know what you’re thinking, I can behave myself when it is called for!
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable weekend away. We crammed in loads and got a real taste of what the city has to offer. Let me know if you’re planning a visit, I’d be happy to share tips!
Take it easy,
TM
2 Comments. Leave new
Excellent read as always, looking forward to the next one.
Can you ask Mrs TM what her secret is please re the cheap rates? I would love to know. Thanks
She will be in touch!!!