Quick Answer: Copenhagen is consistently voted the #1 Northern Europe port — colorful Nyhavn, magical Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid, and smørrebrød sandwiches. The Oceankaj terminal has free shuttles to the city center.

Copenhagen: My Scandinavian Dream Come True

Every single time our Royal Caribbean ship sails up the Øresund and Tivoli's rollercoasters appear on the horizon next to pastel-colored Nyhavn, I feel like I've entered a real-life fairy tale. Copenhagen is consistently voted the #1 or #2 Northern Europe port by Royal passengers (4.9–5.0 average on 2023–2025 reviews), and I completely understand why.

My perfect day starts the moment we dock: I'm off the ship and on a free bike from the port (or just a 15-minute walk) straight to Nyhavn for that iconic colorful photo with a morning pastry and coffee canal-side. Then I rent a GoBoat (electric picnic boat — no license needed) and cruise the canals myself, waving at the Little Mermaid and passing under the low bridges. The Tivoli Gardens at opening time is pure magic — rides, flowers, peacocks strutting around, and the best people-watching on earth.

Lunch is always smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) at Aamanns or the Torvehallerne food market — pickled herring, roast pork, and aquavit shots. In the afternoon I do the Rundetårn (Round Tower) for panoramic views, then Freetown Christiania for its quirky vibe and street art (respect the "no photos" in Green Light District rule). A canal tour with Hey Captain (small boats, live guide) or visiting the Design Museum if it's rainy are both fantastic. Sunset at the King's Garden or a craft beer at Mikkeller rounds it out perfectly.

The Moment That Stays With Me: Piloting my own GoBoat through Copenhagen's canals, passing under bridges where locals sat with their feet dangling, wine bottles open, laughing in the summer sun. Everyone waved. Everyone smiled. I understood in that moment why Copenhagen is called the happiest city on earth — it's not a marketing slogan, it's the actual vibe.

Copenhagen is clean, happy, stylish, and effortlessly cool — hands-down the happiest city I've ever visited.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Two main terminals: Oceankaj (northern, most common for large ships) has a free shuttle every 10–15 minutes to the city center (20–25 min ride), or Langelinie (closer) is a gorgeous 25-minute waterfront walk or €10 taxi to Nyhavn.

  • Nyhavn: Free shuttle + 5 min walk, or waterfront walk from Langelinie
  • Tivoli Gardens: Near Rådhuspladsen, easy from city center
  • Little Mermaid: Walkable from Langelinie or canal tour
  • Christiania: 20-minute walk from Nyhavn

Tip: Once in town everything is flat and insanely bike-friendly. GoBoats are €50/hour for up to 8 people — bring picnic supplies.

Positively Framed Word of Warning

The joyful swarm of bicycles is Copenhagen's signature charm — hop on one yourself or walk with confidence and you'll feel like a local in minutes, plus you'll burn off all those Danish pastries!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tivoli Gardens worth it?

Yes — even if you don't ride anything, the gardens, architecture, and people-watching are magical. Go early to avoid crowds.

What's smørrebrød?

Traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches on dense rye bread with elaborate toppings — pickled herring, roast beef, shrimp. It's an art form.

Is the Little Mermaid disappointing?

She's small, yes. But combined with a harbor walk or canal cruise, she's part of a lovely experience. Manage expectations and you'll appreciate her.

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