Østerbro: Copenhagen

A quiet, residential area north-east of downtown Copenhagen, Østerbro begins around Østerport Station, flanked by the sea to the east and the Lakes to the west. The main drag, Østerbrogade, offers plenty of shopping possibilities, and the whole area has developed into something of a foodies' paradise, with numerous delis, fine food stores, cafes and restaurants ranging from the mid-priced to the expensive.

The only museums in the neighborhood are the smallish Zoologisk (zoological) Museum (Universitetsparken 15) and the Hirschsprung Collection on Stockholmsgade, a delightfully downplayed art mueum housing one of the most extensive collections of 19th century Danish painting in the country.

The most noteable landmark meanwhile is the national stadium, Parken, home of Copenhagen's football team (FC København, or FCK for short) as well as the stage for some huge pop and rock concerts. Nearby is Fælledparken, a large, municipal park that, with no historical or ornamental significance, is instead a great place for ball games, dog walking and jogging, and the spot for Copenhagen's May Day celebrations every first of May.

North of Østerbro is Hellerup, an affluent, coastal neighborhood and home to diplomats and their families. It's also the location of the Experimentarium, one of Copenhagen's most popular attractions for children, a science museum where everything is there to be touched, prodded and played with.

© NileGuide