Denmark: Cultural Experience in Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s charm
My cultural experience in Copenhagen began in May. I visited the city of bicycles, cosy cafés and impressive Scandinavian design for a ten-day journey of discovery. During my stay, which was part of my photography course, I not only had the opportunity to improve my photography skills, but also to dive deep into Copenhagen’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The city offered me the perfect mix of learning and exploring. I enjoyed every minute in the unique atmosphere of this fascinating metropolis. From the picturesque streets and canals to the bustling squares and historical sights, Copenhagen presented itself as a city full of life and inspiration.
Key data Denmark
Population: 5.8 million
Area: 43'094 km²
Highest point: Møllehøj (170 m)
Lowest point: Lammefjord (-7 m)
Capital: Copenhagen
Table of Contents
A City with Many Facets
During our photography course, we decided to fly to Copenhagen in May for our photo excursion. Full of anticipation, I decided to arrive a few days early to explore the city on my own. During the first five nights of my stay in a cosy hostel, I had enough time to explore the diverse cityscape at my leisure. Copenhagen impressed with a rich spectrum from historical to modern architectural wonders – a city that offers new discoveries around every corner.
Copenhagen's Vibrant Nightlife
On Saturday evening, I went out with a couple of English people I met at the hostel. We wanted to explore Copenhagen’s nightlife. We started our tour in a few bars and ended up in a club. Together we were a fun group and it was great fun going out with them. Typically for the English, there was a lot of drinking. This night was also the perfect opportunity to socialise with the locals and get to know the city’s many nightlife options, which you should definitely try out when visiting Copenhagen.
A Day in Malmö:
Copenhagen's Swedish Neighbour
On my first Sunday in Copenhagen, I took a trip to Malmö, a charming Swedish city just 35 minutes away by train across the impressive Öresund Bridge. Although Malmö has its own beauty, I found the city to be quieter compared to Copenhagen, perhaps because it was Sunday. Nevertheless, this day trip was an enriching experience to discover another Scandinavian city and experience its atmosphere.
Working in Copenhagen
From Monday to Wednesday, I made effective use of my working time in Copenhagen by renting a workplace at Regus, a global coworking company. This allowed me to work during the day and enjoy the sights of the city in the evening. Although I had the opportunity to take holiday, my days off were already planned.
Photographic Expedition Through the Streets of Copenhagen
The excursion for my photography course began on Thursday. Firstly, we were given various tasks, including a reportage on “Christiania in Copenhagen”, a city portrait and the topic ‘Focus in a spatial context’. In addition to the tasks, we explored numerous historical and modern sights, including Christiansborg Palace, the Old Town, Nyhavn, the Opera House, Rundetårn and the tower of Vor Frelsers Kirke. The latter offered a breathtaking view over the city with its external ascent, but required a head for heights. I was deeply impressed by the architecture and its diversity. The days were long, but the unique exploration of the city was worth every moment.
First Task - Opposite
Second Task - Portrait of a City
Task - Glaring
Christiania:
A Unique Insight into Copenhagen's Free City
One of the highlights of my trip to Copenhagen was a visit to Christiania, an autonomous community in the heart of the city. This unique enclave, founded in 1971 by a group of hippies and activists on an abandoned military site, offered a fascinating and contrasting experience to the rest of Copenhagen. Christiania’s vibrant culture, self-governing community, its own currency and diverse art scene made a deep impression on me. The atmosphere in this neighbourhood was exceptional. Despite the challenges and conflicts, Christiania has played an important role in Copenhagen’s history and has become an integral part of the city.
Copenhagen's Farewell:
My Unforgettable Journey
My trip to Copenhagen was an unforgettable experience that I will always remember. Especially the friendly locals and the interesting conversations with them enriched the trip. The trip also significantly improved my photography skills. I am already looking forward to visiting Copenhagen again to discover even more of this unique city. There is still so much to see and experience that I am already excited about.