The coolest, most cosmopolitan, most exciting and, yes, Danny Kaye was right, the most wonderful city in Scandinavia (don't argue Stockholm): welcome to Copenhagen (K?benhavn).

These days the Danish capital is blossoming. There is a spring in its step borne from a mixture of some brave new architecture, continued prosperity and a burgeoning confidence in its own charms. There are more cafés and restaurants than ever and, more importantly, the locals are learning how to use them. It used to be that Copenhageners ate out on special occasions only and nights out were restricted to Friday and Saturday only, but that's all changed. Even on a wet Wednesday in February the bars and cafés will be buzzing, that all important hyggelige (cosy) atmosphere fostering a uniquely Danish sense of wellbeing and conviviality.

In a way, the rest of the world woke up to how great this historic city of canals, cobbled squares and copper spires was before the locals did, but it is at last sinking in that the world now looks to Copenhagen for the best in design, architecture and fashion and is beginning also to notice the extraordinary culinary revolution that has taken place here over the last decade. 

If you are looking for an earthy, hardcore travel experience look elsewhere. Copenhagen is clean, safe and ridiculously easy to get to know, the locals all speak superb English and the transport system makes London's look like it's on the verge of a nervous breakdown. It usually makes the top five, if not the top spot, in those ‘most liveable city' lists. And if you are looking for a budget destination, you might also want to reconsider your plans. This is not a cheap city by any means, but then neither is it any more expensive than any other major European city – London and Paris will hit your pocket harder. 

The great thing about Copenhagen is the ease with which you can see the city and its sights on foot. What can be described as the inner core of the city is known as Indre By; a collection of quaint and bustling streets, alleys and squares to be enjoyed through wanderings rather than specific sight-seeing. Nearby is the R?dhus (Town Hall) bringing with it an element of grandeur, whilst its belltower offers views over the city. Inside the main entrance is Jens Olsen's World Clock which rivals the famous astronomical clock in Prague. 

Tourists' insatiable appetite for old cathedrals and churches is not disappointed in Copenhagen, with the Hellig?ndskirken along Str?get being the oldest church in the city dating back to the fourteenth century. The Skt Nikolai Kirke also began its life as a place of worship, but this has now taken a back seat with its role increasingly being as an exhibition hall and café. Further along the Str?get is one of the tourists' favorites, the Guinness World of Records Museum a real family-puller. 

Out of the Indre By area lies the Gothersgade to the north; marking the border with the old city and its medieval beginnings. East lies the Habour area where both aristocracy and museums have found there home. The Rosenborg Slot is worth a look is you pass through the area. Further up along the water's edge and close to the Oslo ferry port, lies the home of one of the most famous Danes of the past, Hans Christian Andersen. A center has been set up here for tourists to visit and buy souvenirs! 

Denmark is famous for many things, from stylish castles to Viking remains to scenic fjords and golden beer. Though difficult to boil the country down into a compact list, here are a few Denmark tourist attractions that are a cut above the ordinary. See the crown jewels at Rosenborg castle. 

It's hard to get away from the castles – Copenhagen tours pretty much require you to pass at least one or two. And while there are plenty to choose from, it's no secret why Rosenborg Castle is one of the top Denmark tourist attractions. Both opulent and stately, the real draw is the royal collection strewn throughout the many chambers and ballrooms. 

Beaches might not be the first thing you think of when considering Denmark tourist attractions, but the ones located in the Skagen area along the northwestern side are among the country's best. Gulf streams keep the air fairly warm, even in the winter months, and the beaches range from the heavily populated to the heavily secluded. 

Though one does not always think of Denmark as synonymous with fine food, the chefs at this ridiculously named restaurant (named after the film “The Cook, the Thief, his Wife and Her Lover), not only purvey a variety of wonderful dishes, they are never afraid to experiment with them either. Delightfully odd combinations (such as fish and coffee sauce) make eating here one of the top things to do in Copenhagen. 

Viking Ship Museum has five restored Viking ships that were sunk in the fjords of Roskilde hundreds of years ago. Discovered in 1957, great pains were taken to restore them, and the results prove that the Vikings were innate shipbuilders who took to their craft with great precision and skill. 

Music fans will want to make the pilgrimage to this summer festival, where top rock bands from all over the world come to play to you and 90,000 of your closest friends. 

The Danes consume more beer, on average, than any other country in the world. So it just makes sense to add a visit to their most famous brewery onto your list of things to do in Copenhagen. 

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen gets all the recognition, but Bakken can rightfully take its place as one of the top Denmark tourist attractions. Just nine miles away, it can be an easy addition to most Copenhagen tours, and you can see the oldest amusement park in the world. The rides and atmosphere almost seem to be purposefully the opposite of Tivoli – less flashing lights and devoid of the tourist traps of the Copenhagen park, Bakken is simply unpretentious fun. 

Not just kids will enjoy this theme park consisting of 45 million interconnected blocks. One of the most popular Denmark tourist attractions, Legoland is located in the otherwise small town of Billund.