When it comes to Scandinavian allure, no capital does it better than Copenhagen. The city centre is home to some of the country’s oldest neighbourhoods, where narrow cobblestone streets give way to spacious squares, grand architecture and a trio of lakes. Admire Danish art at the National Gallery of Denmark SMK, get lost in the Botanical Garden’s 19th century antique glasshouses and unwind with a glass of local craft beer at a canal-side restaurant in the 17th century Nyhavn district.

The pedestrian street Strøget slices through the heart of Copenhagen’s city centre, running from City Hall Square to KongensNytorv. At 1.1 kilometres in length, it’s one of the longest foot traffic only shopping streets in Europe. In summer, the agglomeration of luxury Danish boutiques, global fashion houses, souvenir stores and fast food outlets attract around 80,000 visitors a day.

Getting around Copenhagen’s city centre is easy, with bus and metro stops peppered throughout the district. Boat tours of the canals and inner harbour are a great way to gain a different vantage point, though by far the most popular way to get from A to B is by bike. A common mode of transport, an astounding 40% of locals use bikes to get around the city daily.

In the 11th century, Copenhagen was a small fishing hamlet fringed by farms and fields. Though today, the city has wholeheartedly embraced its modern side. For a glimpse at Copenhagen’s hipster scene, trendy Christianshavn is a must visit district. Also known as Copenhagen K, the area is home to artists, upscale restaurants, eclectic cafes and charming 19th-century facades.