A beautiful capital in Northern Europe has repeatedly been voted the safest city on the continent by locals.

A survey released earlier this year found that Copenhagen residents rate it as a very safe city, with 87 percent noting they feel secure walking around the city at night.

Despite its reputation for being pricey, it’s possible to enjoy a week in Denmark‘s capital without splashing out excessively. Opting for self-catering and bike rentals can help keep expenses low, with all major attractions easily accessible by cycling.

The city is also pedestrian-friendly, and several sites offer free admission.

Among Copenhagen’s highlights is Nyhavn, where towering ships are set against a backdrop of vibrant 18th-century townhouses.

The city’s waterfront, a mere 25-minute walk from the Little Mermaid statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale, is a favourite among tourists.

The iconic statue is located just off the harbour, seconds away from Kastellet, a 17th-century fort that offers free entry and houses Anders Bundgaard’s impressive Gefion Fountain, depicting the Norse goddess leading a team of oxen.

Royal enthusiasts can witness the Changing of the Guard at Amalienborg Palace, the residence of Denmark’s King Frederik and Queen Mary, every day at noon.

Comprising four buildings, the royal abode includes a treasury boasting a priceless collection of bejewelled Faberge trinkets.

Copenhagen is home to a wealth of museums, including the Danish National Museum, which showcases the country’s history and features an exhibit of Viking rune stones.

Art enthusiasts should make a beeline for Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, where masterpieces by Rodin, Van Gogh, Gaugin and others are on display.

Adrenaline junkies can hop on the century-old rollercoaster at the Tivoli Amusement Park, which has been around since 1843.

For those seeking tranquillity, the Botanisk Have gardens provide a serene retreat with its array of trees, plants and flowers surrounding a central lake. Entry to the botanic garden is free.

Food aficionados will want to explore Torvehallerne Market, brimming with stalls, cafes and stands. Reffen Food Market offers a unique dining experience with vendors operating out of repurposed shipping containers.

Marmorkirken, a magnificent domed church overlooking the grounds of Amalienborg Palace, is the largest of its kind in Scandinavia.

Another noteworthy church is the baroque Var Frelsers Kirke, which boasts an external spiral staircase that visitors can ascend for a small fee to enjoy panoramic city views.

To experience Copenhagen’s Bohemian spirit, visit Freetown Christiania, an autonomous community established during a housing crisis in 1971 when squatters took over an abandoned military base, creating an alternative enclave within the city.

Christiania, known for its Green Light District that attracts marijuana dealers and smokers, is a sprawling neighbourhood boasting an array of bars, eateries, and nature trails.

Radhuspladsen, the square situated outside Copenhagen’s Radhus city hall, connects the bustling shopping streets of Vestrobrogade and Stroget.

It features a statue of Hans Christian Andersen and the square’s Dragon Fountain is also worth a visit.

A variety of airlines including British Airways, Scandinavian Airlines, American Airlines, Finnair, Norwegian Air Sweden, Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines and Ryanair offer direct flights to Copenhagen.