For the last three years, Vienna, Austria’s capital, has held the title of the world’s ‘most liveable’ city.
Thanks to its art, culture, and fine dining, the city repeatedly beat the likes of Zurich, Melbourne, and Osaka.
This time around, it’ll have to make do with the hat-trick, as there’s a new city has stolen its crown: Copenhagen.
The Danish capital is now officially the best place to live in the world, after three years of placing second.
To come to this conclusion, the research and analysis division at The Economist ranked 173 cities from across the globe. They based the study on various factors, including education, stability, healthcare, infrastructure and environment.
Copenhagen received a perfect score for three out of five: stability, infrastructure, and education.
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What to do in Copenhagen
Before you rush to get permanent residency, let’s take a look at all Copenhagen has to offer.
If you’re into history, Rosenborg Castle, Christiansborg Palace, and Amalienborg Palace are standouts. All three date back between the 1600s and early 1900s, and are open to the public.
At Rosenborg Castle, you can marvel at the King’s Garden and the Danish crown jewels. Entry costs 140 kroner (£16.02). Christiansborg Palace now houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. However, it was once home to kings and queens. A castle ticket costs 175 kroner (£20) per person, and guided tours run daily from 3pm.
As for Amalienborg Palace, this is a museum dedicated to the Danish monarchy (and home to the current royal family, including the universally beloved, Australian-born Queen Mary). Entrance to the museum is 125 kroner (£14.31).
For a bit of culture, head to Tivoli Gardens. Right in the heart of Copenhagen, it’s the second-oldest amusement park in the world. Since 1843, the Gardens have treated guests to rides, concerts, ballet and theatre performances. There are also over 30 restaurants and eateries on-site.
Access to the Tivolo Gardens is free. However, you have to pay for ride passes and purchase tickets for theatre performances. A standard entrance and ride pass starts from 349 kroner (£39.94).
There’s also The Little Mermaid statue, a bronze figure by Edvard Eriksen, which depicts a mermaid becoming human. It’s displayed on a rock by the waterside at the Langelinie promenade, and was influenced by the 1837 fairy tale of the same name by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.
Copenhagen is also known for its vibrant food scene and is home to many Michelin-starred restaurants. Combining Danish cuisine with global influences, plus a strong focus on sustainability and local, seasonal ingredients, there’s also plenty of street food and casual options if fancy fine dining isn’t your thing.
Famous Michelin-starred eateries include Alchemist, Geranium, and Jordnær, all of which showcase cutting-edge Nordic cuisine. Copenhagen is also at the centre of the New Nordic cuisine, which incorporates foraged items and innovative techniques.
If it’s street food you’re after, the city is bursting with markets offering everything from pizza, burgers, and Japanese street food. To keep it local, make sure you try the Smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich made with rye bread. Popular toppings include roast beef, herring, cheeses, and remoulade.
You can pick up a sandwich at bakeries all across the city. They generally cost between 30 to 50 kroner (£3.43 to £5.72). In higher-end establishments and touristy areas, expect to pay a little more.
Finally, explore Copenhagen from the water on one of the many boat tours. A one-hour canal cruise that takes you along the main harbour and adjoining canals starts from £19 per person. During the cruise, you’ll see architecture, ancient castles, and beautiful churches.
Other ‘most liveable’ cities revealed
With Copenhagen at number one, and Vienna and Zurich in joint second place, Melbourne, Australia, claimed third place. Following just behind was Geneva, while Sydney was fifth.
Rounding out the top 10 were Osaka, Auckland, Adelaide, and Vancouver.
The UK’s most ‘walkable’ city is a vibrant coastal spot just an hour from London
Fancy sticking around in the UK? Whether you don’t like flying or Europe’s sweeping anti-tourism measures have put you off, there are plenty of reasons to holiday closer to home.
For one, Britain is bursting with quality staycations, from off-the-beaten-path gems, to destination dupes to vibrant cities.
You don’t need a car to explore the country either; simply don your trainers and head to the UK’s most walkable city.
This prestigious title goes to Brighton, the beloved seaside spot on the East Sussex coast, renowned for its creative heart and diverse culture.
Read Metro’s full guide to Brighton here.
