Copenhagen is a fantastic city for a family holiday, offering plenty of kid-friendly attractions, beautiful parks, and a welcoming atmosphere. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to be prepared for a smooth and safe trip, especially when traveling with young ones. Here’s a safety guide to help ensure your holiday in Copenhagen is as fun and stress-free as possible.
1. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation
When booking accommodation, look for family-friendly hotels or apartments with amenities like kitchens, extra space for play, and easy access to public transport. Copenhagen has a wide range of family-oriented places to stay, from hotels offering babysitting services to apartments located near parks and attractions. Staying centrally, near areas like Nyhavn or Vesterbro, will ensure you’re close to the main attractions, but also within walking distance of green spaces for the kids to stretch their legs.
2. Getting Around Safely
Copenhagen is known for being one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, but when traveling with kids, it’s essential to prioritize safety. If you plan to rent bikes, make sure you use child-friendly options, such as bike trailers or seats that are securely attached. Alternatively, public transport in Copenhagen is reliable and easy to navigate. The metro, buses, and trains are stroller-friendly and offer priority seating for families, making getting around the city hassle-free. If you’re using taxis, always ensure that your child is in an appropriate car seat.
3. Child-Friendly Attractions with Safety in Mind
Copenhagen is filled with attractions designed for families. Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, is a must-see, but be sure to check the safety guidelines for each ride, particularly those for younger children. The National Aquarium Denmark (Den Blå Planet) is another great spot, where you can explore marine life in a safe, interactive environment. Always keep an eye on your child, as these attractions can get busy, especially around the holidays.
4. Dress Warmly for the Weather
Copenhagen’s winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Dress your kids in layers to ensure they stay warm. Waterproof jackets, insulated gloves, and hats are a must to keep everyone comfortable while exploring the city. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors, take breaks in cafes or indoor play areas to warm up.
5. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Though Copenhagen is a very safe city, it’s still a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts, including local hospitals and pharmacies. The emergency number in Denmark is 112, which will connect you to police, fire, and medical services. Having a local SIM card or an international plan for your phone will also ensure you can stay connected if needed.
6. Keep an Eye on Personal Belongings
Copenhagen is a generally safe city, but like any busy destination, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Keep an eye on your belongings and use a child-friendly backpack or harness to prevent your little one from wandering off in busy areas like Strøget or The Little Mermaid.
7. Health and Hygiene
There are many pharmacies throughout Copenhagen, and they can help you with anything from over-the-counter medicine to first-aid supplies. Make sure you carry any necessary medications for your kids, and always have hand sanitizer and tissues on hand to keep things hygienic.
By following these simple tips, your family holiday in Copenhagen can be both safe and enjoyable. The city is full of friendly locals, amazing sights, and plenty of places to explore with kids. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready for a memorable holiday experience in one of Europe’s most family-friendly cities.
