EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: COPENHAGEN

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN COPENHAGEN
When in Denmark, delight your palate with the country’s national dish stegt flæsk (fried pork belly). Cut ¼-inch thick, pork belly strips are lightly salted and fried until the meat becomes crispy and golden. Danes pair the pork with a serving of boiled kipfler potatoes drizzled with a creamy white parsley sauce (persillesovs og kartofler). Put your Danish language skills to use and order stegt flæsk med persillesovs og kartofler when you find yourself dining in Copenhagen.
Top Cultural Foods To Try in Copenhagen
Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Copenhagen:
- øø: øø is a delicious open-faced sandwich built on dense rye bread. These are not just any ordinary sandwiches, they are miniature works of art topped with everything from roast beef and seafood to fresh veggies. Trying øø is the ultimate way to experience a classic Danish lunch tradition, and you'll find it everywhere from fancy restaurants to casual bakeries all around Copenhagen!
- Stegt Flæsk med Persillesovs: If you are looking for a genuine taste of Denmark, you'll absolutely want to try this delicious national dish. Stegt Flæsk is a plate of crispy fried pork belly served with boiled potatoes and a creamy, delicious parsley sauce. It's the ultimate comfort food for locals, and its hearty nature perfectly sums up the no-fuss style of traditional Danish cooking.
- Frikadeller: You'll see these everywhere, and for good reason! Frikadeller are a Danish version of meatballs, typically made with a mix of pork and veal. They are pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside but stay incredibly juicy on the inside. You can find them served hot with potatoes and gravy or cold on øø, making them a delicious and versatile staple of everyday Copenhagen cuisine.

BEST DRINK IN COPENHAGEN
Danes drink 20 million cups of coffee a day, making Denmark one of the top 10 coffee consuming countries in the world. Coffee breaks are an essential part of the Scandinavian workday. If you get 첹ڴڱøپ (thirsty for coffee) be sure to take a kaffepause (coffee break) at any of Copenhagen’s many cafés. Take note – Danes don’t put much milk or sugar in their coffee (if any) so be prepared to drink rich, locally-roasted specialty brews as is.
Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Copenhagen
Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Copenhagen:
- Akvavit: This is a strong, clear spirit distilled with herbs like caraway, and it is an integral part of Danish drinking culture. It's traditionally served in a shot glass and chilled, often consumed during big meals and celebrations. Just be ready for the toasting rituals, since a classic skål is a must!
- Gammel Dansk: This drink is a true Danish classic, but it is not for the faint of heart! Gammel Dansk is a famous bitter made from a secret recipe of 29 different herbs and spices. It's traditionally consumed in a small glass in the morning or as a digestif after a meal. Trying it is an authentic experience but be warned...its intense flavor is an acquired taste for sure!
- Hyldeblomsaft: On a warm summer day in Copenhagen, nothing is more refreshing than a glass of Hyldeblomsaft. This is a super popular elderflower cordial that is a sweet and fragrant non-alcoholic drink. It’s often served diluted with cold water or sparkling water, and it is a seasonal drink that perfectly captures the light and fresh flavors of a Danish summer.

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN COPENHAGEN
For a picturesque view of Copenhagen, visit Nyhavn (New Harbor), the city’s historic waterfront. Once considered a “seedy part of town,” Nyhavn has become a popular tourist attraction. Both sides of its 17th-century canal are lined with tall painted houses dating back to the 1600s and 1700s. Today, they house bars, restaurants, and cafés on the ground level. Spend the day discovering the history of Nyhavn and its famous Danish fairytale writer, Hans Christian Anderson – who lived in the houses marked 18, 20, and 67!
Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Copenhagen
Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Copenhagen:
- Tivoli Gardens: Tivoli is one of the world's oldest amusement parks, but it is also a beautiful garden with rides, food stalls, and live music. The park is a classic example of Danish hygge and is a favorite spot for locals to hang out, especially during the festive seasons when it's lit up with thousands of lights.
- Nyhavn: You have definitely seen this place on a postcard! Nyhavn is the iconic 17th-century harbor known for its brightly colored townhouses and historic wooden ships lining the canal. It’s a fantastic spot to grab a bite, have a drink, or soak in the amazing atmosphere of the city. Here, you'll feel the unique maritime spirit and easy-going charm of Copenhagen.
- The National Museum of Denmark: For a real deep dive into Danish culture, you have to visit The National Museum. This museum covers everything from the Viking Age to modern Denmark, with awesome artifacts like a 2,000-year-old sun chariot and ancient runestones. It is the best place to understand the country's history and heritage, giving you a serious appreciation for everything you are seeing in the city.
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