Podcast: Insider's Guide to Copenhagen - Classic culture, deep-rooted history, and fresh seafood
Join American playwright and director Rhea Leman as she takes radio and television host Esben Bjerre for a stroll through some of her favourite Copenhagen spots and shares what makes Copenhagen special to her.
Rhea Leman came to Copenhagen in 1976, and was immediately in love with the city. She felt safe regardless of where and when she was, which was a big contrast to her native New York City. She particularly enjoys how history is present on every street in Copenhagen, and she loves to stroll through the parks and museums and indulge in delicious food in restaurants.
Join Rhea as she shows Esben where she spends his time in Copenhagen.
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Gefion Fountain
On Rhea's very first day in Copenhagen, she went to Gefion Fountain. The Gefion Fountain is in Langelinie Park, and features a group of animals being driven by the legendary Norse goddess, Gefion. It is the largest monument in Copenhagen and is used as a wishing well. According to an ancient legend, Gefion was the goddess who ploughed the island of Zealand out of Sweden. The Swedish king Gylfe offered the goddess Gefion as much land as she was capable of ploughing in one day and one night.
The Citadel
The Citadel in Copenhagen was founded by Danish King Christian 4 in 1626. You will find it on the border of inner Copenhagen and the area of Østerbro. Today, the buildings inside the Citadel are used as military barracks and offices. However, the area is open to the public and a favourite green lung for a brisk walk or jog on the ramparts, close to the Little Mermaid.
Lumskebugten
Lumskebugten - the Treacherous Bay - offers traditional Danish cuisine, including an extensive selection of fresh seafood.A historic – yet modern - restaurant with some of the best smørrebrød and other traditional Danish dishes in all of Copenhagen. And a go-to place for vegans and vegetarians too. In these classic and beautiful premises home to the restaurant Lumskebugten for more than 160 years you’ll find some interesting contrasts with traditional Danish dishes and smørrebrød – and a vegetable-loving chef who was on the forefront with food trends long before anyone thought of the New Nordic cuisine manifesto.
Café Sommersko
Café Sommersko opened in 1976 and quickly became known as the first Parisian-inspired café in the Nordics. It became a meeting point for artists, writers and bohemians in Copenhagen in the 70s. With its unique décor that included posters, mirrors, chandeliers and an old d'Angleterre clock, the café attracted a wide audience. After reopening in new premises a few years ago, the iconic cafe still has the same vibe as always.
SMK - The National Gallery of Denmark
The National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst) features Danish and international art from the past seven centuries. No other museum in Denmark shows such a rich and varied selection of art – from the European classics of the Renaissance to the overwhelming diversity of modern and contemporary art. The SMK is especially famous for its beautiful collection of Danish Golden Age art, the country’s most comprehensive collection of Danish contemporary art. It also has one of the world’s best Matisse collections.
Bottega Barlie
Whether you're seeking a morning coffee, a leisurely brunch, or an evening glass of wine, Bottega Barlie offers a warm and engaging environment that reflects the dynamic spirit of Copenhagen's culinary scene. The establishment offers an Italian-inspired menu complemented by a diverse selection of wines, catering to patrons from morning through evening. The interior features a modest yet thoughtfully detailed design, with a terrace adorned with lush greenery, providing a laid-back and lively atmosphere.
Want to visit more places on Rheas' list?
Rhea and Esben mention many places in Copenhagen, and below, you can find a list of honourable mentions.
