Kastellet & The Little Mermaid

Kastellet — The Star Fortress

The Kastellet is one of the best-preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe: five bastions, a moat, windmill, church, and soldiers' barracks — all in their original state since the 17th century. It is still an active military site, but the ramparts and parks are open to the public. A walk on the ramparts offers beautiful views over the harbor and is a perfect contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Free and beautiful in every season — especially in autumn with colorful leaves and in winter with frost.

The Little Mermaid (Den lille Havfrue)

The Little Mermaid has been sitting on her rock at the Langelinie promenade since 1913 — and is Copenhagen's most famous (and controversial) landmark. The bronze statue (only 1.25 meters high) was commissioned by brewer Carl Jacobsen (Carlsberg), inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale and the ballet at the Royal Theatre.

Expectation management: The statue is small. Really small. Surrounded by tourists with selfie sticks. Many visitors are disappointed. But if you go at 7 AM, when the light falls on the Øresund and you are alone with her, she has her charm. She also has a turbulent history: The head was sawn off twice (1964, 1998), an arm was severed (1984), she was sprayed with paint and dressed in a burkini. She survives everything.