It’s much cooler if you fancy a break from the heat in a late summer getaway, and really comes alive around ChristmasThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Copenhagen is officially the most relaxed city in the world
Paris, Madrid and, naturally, London might come to mind when considering European getaway spots. While these are all reliable choices, occasionally something a touch more understated is called for.
Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, has been crowned the most relaxed city in the world. On top of that, last year it topped the Happy City Index. For comparison, London appeared on the list at a rather disappointing 31st.
Travel experts at Holafly considered the factors of population density, the number of nature areas and parks, the number of spa and wellness centres, air quality, sunlight hours traffic index and happiness score to put together its list of the world’s most laid back cities.
It ranks consistently high on happiest rankings(Image: Getty Images)
Copenhagen earned a score of 70 out of a possible 100. Check out the top 10 with scores below:
1) Copenhagen, Denmark – 70
2) Barcelona, Spain – 69.6
3) Vienna, Austria – 66.8
4) Vancouver, Canada – 66.6
5) Oslo, Norway – 64.2
6) Miami, USA – 63.3
7) Munich, Germany – 63.3
8) Singapore – 63.2
9) Rome, Italy – 61.9
10) Amsterdam, The Netherlands – 61.5
Copenhagen is unique in its appeal. The city is forward-thinking and stylish with excellent restaurants and shops to explore.
It’s not the most affordable location, with food and drinks roughly matching London, but Copenhagen delivers plenty for a more compact city.
In fact, Half Half Travel ranks Copenhagen as one of the most expensive cities in the world to visit. Having said that, if you want to save a bit of money, the website does have a handy tip – the bakeries and more casual spots in the city are not to be missed. In other words, you need not break the bank to get some good food.
It’s a beautiful city to explore(Image: Alexander Spatari/Getty Images)
Stansted also appears to be slightly cheaper to fly from than the usual Gatwick, according to Skyscanner – though this isn’t always the case and is worth comparing prices.
It’s considerably smaller than London, but Copenhagen features countless attractions that you wouldn’t want to skip during your stay. Leading tourist destinations include Tivoli Gardens, Christianborg Palace, Gammel Strand, The Little Mermaid statue, National Museum of Denmark and Amlienborg Palace.
So, if the typical holiday destinations feel somewhat overcrowded, why not think about Copenhagen?
If we haven’t convinced you already, it might be worth planning a visit over the festive season. It features an impressive seven Christmas markets which, given its size, is quite remarkable.
Copenhagen doesn’t come cheap, but there are ways to visit without breaking the bank(Image: Getty Images)
The market at Højbro Plads features traditional decorations and illuminations, handcrafted presents, and a log cabin Christmas village, while at Kongens Nytorv, you’ll feel transported to another era with classic stalls and a 3D light display. The Hans Christian Andersen market (yes, named after the author of the original Little Mermaid) is decorated with thousands of Christmas lights and provides abundant food and a festive ambiance.
You even have the chance to meet both Father Christmas and HC Andersen. At Axeltorv, the market converts a historic square into a winter wonderland featuring lights, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts.
It’s the perfect spot to experience Danish Christmas customs with numerous food vendors, a merry-go-round, and live entertainment. The market at Kulturtorvet is a welcome newcomer to the Christmas scene, providing a peaceful retreat for shoppers while giving small businesses the opportunity to showcase their products.
Over at Den Grå Hal, uniquely designed stalls built by the traders themselves offer a diverse selection of gifts from around the world.
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