Being invited to my best friend’s wedding in Copenhagen couldn’t go without extending my stay to explore the vibrant capital of Denmark which is known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and world-class dining scene.
History of Copenhagen
Copenhagen was founded in the 12th century as a fishing village and it quickly grew into a bustling port city. The city played a key role in the development of northern Europe and the city has a rich history of monarchies and royal families. The city is home to the famous Rosenborg Castle where the Danish royal family still resides in Copenhagen today.
Attractions in Copenhagen
‘Nyhavn’ waterfront is lined with colourful buildings and bustling cafes. It is a great spot for a leisurely stroll along the water. In a whole day I visited the iconic ‘Little Mermaid ‘ statue is a must-see for visitors as it is based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. The statue overlooks the picturesque Copenhagen harbour. There is a boat tour ‘Nyhavn’ is a quintessential Copenhagen experience.
The ‘Marble Church’ is also situated within the proximity of the central square. This church has a magnificent green roof, and you can visit inside too. It gave me the Vatican vibes. It is located just a short walk from the central square which is guarded by soldiers parading across the royal buildings. Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and it is worth a visit. It offers a mix of rides, entertainment, and dining options.
Tivoli Gardens is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. If you want to see an ariel view of the whole city from above then go to ‘Copenhills’ You can take the lift to the top, or if you fancy a good workout, then you can climb to the top of the hills for a fantastic view of the city across the water. In my case, the lift was broken when we arrived giving us no choice but to walk all the way to the top, it felt like a long pilgrimage walk and was tough, but I was determined to burn off that chocolate draped waffle.
The NH Hotel Collection Copenhagen
Situated in the heart of Copenhagen, the modern five-star hotel offers a fantastic option for a brief city break. With its prime location by the harbour, the hotel serves as an excellent home base during your visit to the city. It strikes a perfect balance between the lively city centre and the peaceful waterside atmosphere.
One of the highlights of this hotel is its proximity to the vibrant city life of Christianshavn, just steps away from the doorstep. Additionally, major attractions such as the Opera House, Royal Library, and Nyhavn are all within a short distance. Transportation around the city is convenient, with water buses and metro stations located just a few minutes away. Local shops are also within walking distance.
The gorgeous guest rooms showcase a blend of Scandinavian and international design, exuding contemporary elegance. Many rooms and suites provide grand windows to offer breath-taking views of the picturesque harbour. In the morning we had a hearty Danish breakfast as part of a grand buffet in the main restaurant, the best thing is that there are options to cater to every taste and mood throughout the day and in the evening, you can dine at the bar and savour a meal from the a la carte menu.
Boasting magnificent high views of the city. The hotel has an exceptional service gym and amazing facilities. The Rooftop terrace and bar also opens in the evening and it gave me the perfect opportunity to socialise whilst allowing to unwind and enjoy a refreshing mocktail, coffee, or homemade snacks under the night sky on the evening of my arrival.
Exploring Cuisine in the Vibrant City
The dynamic and diverse capital of Denmark, is home to a rich culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. The city’s food scene focuses on fresh, local ingredients. Street food markets like ‘Torvehallerne’ offer a wide variety of culinary delights. Visitors can sample traditional Danish dishes and international favourites Copenhagen is a food lover’s paradise.
For those looking for halal food options, the city offers a plethora of choices that showcase the best of Islamic cuisine. From traditional Middle Eastern fare to modern fusion dishes, Copenhagen has something for every halal food enthusiast, the food scene embraces diversity, with many restaurants offering halal options alongside non-halal choices. Many restaurants in Copenhagen specialise in traditional Middle Eastern dishes such as kebabs, falafel, and hummus. These establishments use authentic ingredients and techniques to create flavours that transport diners to the streets of Istanbul or Beirut.
One restaurant I visited in central Copenhagen was ‘Wasalaam Strog Shawarma’ which is located in the city centre and is known for the best Shawarma’s. Another Shawarma house just further along the lane is called ‘ Shawarma House’. Modern Twists In addition to traditional fare, Copenhagen boasts restaurants that offer modern twists on halal cuisine. From halal burgers to sushi, these innovative dishes blend classic flavours with contemporary culinary trends. My favourite sushi house is called ‘Nano Sushi’ and they serve the best sushi by the best robots. I must also recommend visiting the best waffle and ice-cream house ‘ Waffelbageren’ which is also in the city centre. It makes the best hot chocolate with ice cream and also freshly made waffles served with fresh ice cream and sauce. You can sit on the terrace outside and enjoy the city view.
Copenhagen’s food markets are a treasure trove of halal delights, with vendors selling everything from freshly baked bread to exotic spices. Exploring these markets is a feast for the senses, with the sights and smells of halal cuisine wafting through the air. “ Reffen” is also a Danish version of Camden Town’s food market with all types of world cuisine being served in stalls near the riverside.
In conclusion, Copenhagen is a paradise for halal food lovers, with a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you’re craving a comforting plate of meat biryani or a fresh and flavourful salad, the city’s culinary scene has something for everyone. So come hungry and get ready to indulge in the delicious world of halal food in Copenhagen.
A city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. With its charming neighbourhoods, world-class attractions, and delicious cuisine, it is a destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites, indulging in the culinary scene, or simply soaking in the local culture, Copenhagen will leave you enchanted.
Words – Tahira Khan
The adventurous spirit behind the pages of British Muslim magazine. As the Editor-in-Chief, Natasha leads with a passion for exploration and a pen dipped in wanderlust. With a keen eye for halal travel experiences and an insatiable curiosity for new experiences, she brings readers along on captivating journeys to far-flung destinations. Through her vibrant storytelling, Natasha invites readers on enriching adventures, where every experience is a window into the muslim world.
