Car Rental Copenhagen

Denmark is renowned for its extensive, modern and well-maintained road network, as well as for stunning suspension bridges arcing over the water. Being relatively compact, Copenhagen is simple to navigate, as capital cities go.

In the city itself, the speed limit is 40kph (around 24mph). If you go beyond the city, it’s generally 50kph (31mph) in built-up areas, 80kph (49mph) on open out of town roads and 110kph (68mph) on most of the highways. From time to time you’ll see signs that signal that you’re able to drive up to 130kph (around 80mph).

Highways are toll-free throughout the country, although if you plan to head east from Copenhagen and cross the Øresund bridge to Sweden, there is a fee to pay. You don’t need an international license for Denmark, and it’s also important to note that all passengers must wear seatbelts.

Copenhagen is a cycling-friendly city, and you’ll need to be aware of the numerous cycling lanes and paths weaving throughout the center. Cyclists always have right of way on the road.

The city has four different parking zones, but the rule of thumb is that the closer you are to the center of the city, the more expensive it will be. The red zone costs the most, followed by the green, blue and yellow zones in that order. Parking is free on Sundays and on holidays.

If leaving Copenhagen, you can head south-west on the E20, which heads through Ringsted and Slagelse before crossing the wide body of water that is the Storebælt.

The E45/E55 heads to the north and south to the islands of Falster and Lolland, and when you run out of road, you’ll usually find ferries waiting to take you across to the other side – Denmark is nothing if not a country of islands.

From Viking culture to an internationally renowned cuisine built on impeccably-sourced and foraged food, Copenhagen is a city whose history is integral to its personality. The clean and tidy streets are peppered with riots of colour and stunning architecture – it truly is the design capital of the world. 

Say hello to Hans

Nyhavn is a big tourist magnet, and it’s easy to see why. The colorful buildings are picture perfect, the sun plays on the waterfront while you relax on the quayside, and the area possesses a pleasant atmosphere.

No. 9 Nyhavn is the area’s oldest building, dating from 1681, and famed fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen lived in several houses on the same stretch. He spent time at No. 18, No. 67, writing The Princess and Pea and The Tinderbox while living at No. 20.

Catch a glimpse of an iconic statue inspired by the work of the great writer by heading to the Langelinie promenade to see The Little Mermaid.

Noma and the New Nordic

There’s little point in even thinking about eating at Noma unless you’ve reserved a long, long time in advance. Rene Redzepi’s legendary eaterie has been voted the world’s best, with prices and waiting lists to match. If you do secure an elusive table, expect edible plants, playful takes on local ingredients and upwards of 20 courses.

You can taste similar food for much less money – and with a great chance of snagging a reservation – by choosing somewhere opened by Noma alumni such as Relae or Radio. You can also push the boat out with dinner at the two Michelin-starred AOC, where you’ll be treated to tender roe deer with ramson butter and rustic German turnip with Danish Oysters.

All a bit too rich? Enjoy a Smørrebrød in cafes all across the city. An open sandwich usually on dense rye bread, the toppings range from simple to extravagant.

Take in the Towers

There aren’t too many tall buildings in Copenhagen – a fact that contributes to the sense of space and freshness. The tallest tower is the one atop Christansborg Palace – home to the Danish parliament, where access to the tower is free via a lift.

The Rundetaarn – or Round Tower – is Europe’s oldest working observatory, and you can reach the top via a long, spiral walkway. The tower is only 36 meters high in total, but has a stunning glass floor inside, some 25 meters up.

Get your culture fix at the National Museum, home to some jaw-dropping exhibitions. The Viking weapons and Stone Age artefacts tell the story of Danish history, while the crowning glory of the collection must be the Sun Chariot.

Dating back 3,500 years, it’s the only surviving example of its kind in the world. After a whistle-stop tour of the museum, make time for Rosenborg Castle, built in the early 17^th century and home to many Danish kings. Take a guided tour to get the full story, and then head to the basement to see the crown jewels which include swords and scabbards, and the gold crown of Christian IV, made in 1595.

Copenhagen is a city where you can lose yourself in its magnificent culture and deep history, explore the cutting-edge food scene or just wander the streets, soaking up the atmosphere.

With car rental in Copenhagen you can see all the city has to offer, as well as having the option to head further afield to explore the rest of Denmark.