La Banchina, Copenhagen

National GeographicJul 24

Copenhagen is one of the world's happiest cities—I visited to find out why

Those who call the harbour capital of Copenhagen home are rightly proud of its status as one of the world’s happiest cities — thanks in part to its innovative urban design projects and commitment to ...

Waterside hybrid of a lido cafe and swim-up bar.

18 things in this story

GreenKayakPlaceFree kayak rental in return for litter picking.
AmagerNeighborhoodUp-and-coming area east of the coast.
NyhavnNeighborhoodCanal lined with yachts, cruisers, and museum ships.
Broens Street FoodMarketMarket passed on the way to the harbour.
Christiansborg PalaceAttractionIt is the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Danish Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court of Denmark.
ChristianshavnSuburbCommunity known for free thinking.
CykelslangenSight220-meter elevated tarmac curving across waters.
StadsgravenSightFormer city moat with mute swans.
CopenhillSightWaste-to-energy plant with ski slope and climbing wall.
Islands Brygge Harbour BathSightSeries of diving boards, pools, and pontoons.
La BanchinaCaféWaterside hybrid of a lido cafe and swim-up bar.
HolmenQuarterNearby waterside neighborhood.
Cycling CopenhagenPlaceCopenhagen Cycling Club samler high-end racercykler, carbon gravelcykler og premium cykeludstyr fra udvalgte brands til…
Islands BryggeTrain stationRedeveloped docklands neighborhood.
AnløbetBarWine bar overlooking Bryggen Syd waterfront.
Bryggen SydNeighborhoodWaterfront district.
The Little MermaidPublic artwork
SydhavnenQuarter

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La Banchina

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Copenhagen is one of the world's happiest cities—I visited to find out why