Traditions and culture in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has practically reinvented itself over the course of the last ten years, morphing from Denmark's sleepy capital to a versatile and endearing metropolitan city of international renown.

The genesis has occurred as a result of a number of factors - such as its innovative approach to design, architecture and fashion - and it is now viewed as one of the most liveable cities in the world.

But perhaps most importantly, the locals have emerged from their default cultural position to realise the considerable charms of the city - arguably doing so later than the travellers who have been visiting in their droves for some time.

It now portrays an air of confidence in its own appeal and its historic canals, copper spires and narrow streets form an effective contrast with its new cafes, smooth transport systems and burgeoning prosperity as a whole.

Things to do in Copenhagen

There is plenty to take in for anyone on holiday in Copenhagen, as you would expect from a city that has often been described as the 'Paris of the north'.

It has experienced a remarkable culinary revolution in recent times and eateries are constantly springing up, while lovers of architecture are certainly catered for.

The Christiansborg Palace, the Arken Museum of Modern Art, the Danish National Gallery, the Borsen (former Stock Exchange building) and Kronborg Castle - which belonged to Hamlet in the famous Shakespeare play - are all worth a visit.

Anyone taking a holiday in the city should beware that it is fairly expensive, so finding a cheap hotel could be a problem - but the experience offered by Copenhagen means most people do not begrudge forking out a little extra.

And of course, the locals all speak near-perfect English and their customary Danish charm and hedonistic approach to life is reflected in the city's atmosphere.

Weather in Copenhagen

Generally speaking, anyone deciding to book flights to Copenhagen for a holiday can expect warm and pleasant summers, with average high temperatures of around 21C and lows of roughly 13C.

In addition, the mercury can often tip the 25C mark and occasional heat waves tend to characterise summers in the city.

By contrast, the winters are normally cold, with temperatures ranging from -2C to 4C, and there is the possibility of snow between December and March.

Destination checklist for Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a population of 509,861.

The city is one hour ahead of UTC time.

The official currency is the krone.

Danish is the official language spoken.

The city's international dialling code is +45.