Take an early walk through the Botanic Garden (Botanisk Have), which features 25 acres of landscaped grounds and a 19th-century Palm House. Right beside the Botanic Garden is, quite literally, one of Copenhagen’s treasures - Rosenborg Palace. In this 17th-century royal residence, you’ll find the Danish Crown Jewels and other treasures of the Danish Royal Family dating back to the year 1500.

Head east through the King’s Garden to Amalienborg Palace, the current residence of Denmark’s Royal Family. Arrive by noon to watch the Changing of the Guard. The ceremony takes place every day, but it’s most exciting when Queen Margrethe II is in residence and a military marching band accompanies the guardsmen.

Now get ready for a bit of true Danish relaxation and a bite of lunch in Nyhavn.

Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s revitalized canal district, once was home to Hans Christian Andersen (when he first arrived in “Wonderful Copenhagen”). Today it’s lined with casual cafés where you can enjoy lunch and outstanding Danish beer. After lunch, follow the Langelinie pedestrian zone along the canal until you reach Denmark’s most beloved landmark, the statue of The Little Mermaid.

Stroeget is a pedestrians-only shopping zone that measures almost one full mile (the world's longest pedestrian street). Here you’ll find everything from quirky souvenirs to Denmark’s finest purveyors, such as Royal Scandinavia and Georg Jensen, and Illums Bolighus for the best in home decor.

If shopping isn’t your “bag,” visit one of Copenhagen’s many unusual museums. The Museum of Danish Resistance traces the country’s fascinating history during the German occupation of World War II. Thorvaldsens Museum is a tribute to Denmark’s most famous sculptor, Bertel Thorvaldsen. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, is renowned for its collections of antiquities and European painting and sculpture.

In the evening Tivoli Gardens, a distinctively European pleasure park, is the most magical spot in Copenhagen. Enjoy all-ages fun, delightful rides and inviting restaurants for dinner and snacks. Tivoli is open from April to September, and it reopens in late November for the Christmas season.

See Day 2 - Architecture and Culture
See Day 3 - Museums and Jazz