Discover the new Copenhagen

If you think you know Copenhagen, think again. The city has several distinct neighbourhoods such as Vesterbro, Norrebro and Christianshavn with their own unique characteristics making them perfect for tourists wanting to get off the beaten track.

VESTERBRO

Vesterbro is one of the most vibrant areas of the city which in recent years has undergone a complete transformation to become a favourite haunt of young, hip Copenhageners, especially at weekends.

The area’s original establishments are being replaced by fashion shops, restaurants and cafes. Halmtorvet is the main centre and is now a trendy square filled with fine cafes and fancy restaurants, while Istedgade is a street full of smart designer shops, coffee bars and speciality shops. Art collectors should explore the side streets where they will find progressive galleries for up and coming artists. And Night owls should head to The Vega complex, housed in a magnificent 1950's trade union building and one of the most popular night life venues in Copenhagen with a strong reputation for luring the best DJs in the world.

Vesterbro is also the location of the world’s first designer hotel - the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel. The hotel opened in 1960 with renowned Danish architect Arne Jacobsen having designed both the exterior and all areas of the interior including chairs, cutlery and door handles. Two of his most famous creations, the ‘Egg’ and ‘Swan’ chairs, were created especially for the Royal Hotel. The hotel’s top floor restaurant, Alberto K, offers spectacular views of the city.

No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to the Carlsberg Breweries, one of the largest brewery companies in the world, which has been brewing beer since 1847. Take a self-guided tour at the Carlsberg Visitors Centre on Gamle Carlsberg Vej.

NORREBRO

The transformation and modernisation of Norrebro began in the early 1990s around the square Sankt Hans Torv which now boasts cafes and restaurants and a prominent water sculpture. Two of the most renowned cafes are Sebastopol and Pussy Galore’s Flying Circus which is known for its classic black Arne Jacobsen chairs, minimalist interior and funky fusion kitchen.

Late evening head for Rust, a popular Norrebro club, which leads the way in introducing new musical trends. It is divided into a laid-back cocktail bar, a main bar and main dance floor and there are regular live music and club nights.

The area around Ravnsborggade is the place to hunt out antiques and second hand jewellery as well as clothing by up and coming designers.

Those who appreciate quality beer should not miss Ryesgade where a former old metal goods factory has been turned into a micro-brewery, Norrebro Bryghus. As well as the brewery there is a restaurant which is open for lunch and dinner.

Norrebro has hung on to some of its past such as the Assistens Kirkegard cemetery. Dating from 1760, this is the final resting place of many famous Danes including Hans Christian Andersen and Soren Kierkegaard. Take a leisurely stroll of the cemetery or simply watch the locals use it as their local park during the summer.

CHRISTIANSHAVN

Cross Knippelsbro Bridge into Christianshavn and step back into Copen-hagen’s medieval past. Established in 1619 by King Christian IV as a centre for merchants and sailors, the area has escaped the fires that affected other parts of Copenhagen so its history is very much in evidence. Many of the original trading houses built along the canals still survive today and the side streets are great for soaking up the atmosphere. This is also close to the Self-governing neighbourhood of Christiania. This freethinking commune has been aiming to build their own society over the last 36 years and provide an alternative style of restaurants, art exhibitions and music events during the summer months.

Canal tours are a popular way of seeing the old city of Christianshavn, many of its most attractive sights and the gently rocking houseboats. Why not hire your own boat or kayak for and design your own tour of the canals?

This is also the place to sample Michelin starred cuisine at not just one but two restaurants. Era Ora is known for its exquisite Italian cuisine while Noma is famed for its Nordic cooking and innovative gastronomy. A fairly recent addition to this up-and-coming area is the Opera House, a stunning waterfront architectural masterpiece offering top class performances of international standard.

Copenhagen is less than two hours away with SAS from Dublin, London Heathrow and City Airports, Birmingham, Manchester and Aberdeen.

Look up the best flight deals at: Flysas.co.uk

For accommodation and facts about Denmark: Visitdenmark.com

More information on Copenhagen: Visitcopenhagen.com