Copenhagen spent the past year celebrating the bicentennial of Hans Christian Andersen’s birth. In the spirit of make believe worthy of the man himself there are footprint markings in the city leading to the most popular attractions. It is possible to follow in the storyteller’s footsteps along the canals, the central district, and to many other sites that Andersen would have known.

Other than touring on foot, it is possible to take a guided canal tour of the harbor, and view Copenhagen by water. Passing the new Opera House and the naval dockyard, the boat stops by the harbor promenade Langelinie: just as we come into view of the famous little mermaid sitting on her lonely rock. Inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale, the little mermaid is dedicated to the city of Copenhagen. Visitors from around the world still come to gaze upon this fair sea maiden cast in bronze.

Another special place that captures the imagination of visitors every year is the Tivoli Gardens. Founded in 1843, the Tivoli Gardens is a favorite haunt for all who enjoy the old traditions of an amusement park, while dining in fashionable pavilions and listening to live entertainment. Fairy tale gardens, rides, music and the Tivoli Boys Guard are all part of the exciting things to see and to do at the Gardens. At night the Tivoli Gardens are illuminated, and on weekends, the Gardens stage extravaganzas celebrating the works of Hans Christian Andersen, culminating in a wonderful fireworks display.

After experiencing the gaiety from all of the festivities at Tivoli, we looked for more fantasy, fairytales and legend. We made inquiries to find Elsinore, made famous by Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Only a 30-minute train ride from the city center, this castle, known as Kronborg Castle at Helsingor, still looms as large as depicted in Shakespeare’s times. From Helsingor, you can see the narrowest part of the sound of Oresund that divides Denmark from Sweden. Kronborg Castle’s prominence continues when every year well-known actors and theatrical companies from around the world recreate the famous play in the vicinity of the castle. Besides the spacious, historical halls and dungeons, the castle is used for state functions and is the home of the Danish Mercantile and Maritime Center.

Upon returning to Copenhagen, a different way to explore the sights is by bicycle. The number of cyclists, who use the bicycle paths along the city roads, is impressive. Visitors can rent bicycles for a nominal fee, and then leave the bicycles in a designated place. Bicycle riding in Copenhagen is relatively easy and safe as the roads are generally flat and pathways on the roads are designated for riders only.

For those who enjoy the arts, there are a number of museums to visit, including the Rosenborg Palace, which houses the Danish Crown Jewels and other collectibles. The Amalienborg Palace and Royal Residence also has a fine display of precious objects belonging to the Royal Family, which is open to the public. Music lovers, too, who enjoy music, ballet, and theatre, will have a variety of choices to attend special performances at the Opera House, the Royal Danish Theatre, and the Tivoli Gardens Concert Hall.

Copenhagen is indeed a center for the arts and the heart of fairytale Denmark with all its castles and manor homes. In the largest city in Scandinavia, it is relatively easy to get around whether by foot, bicycle, or public transportation. Classical elegance, leading design, and lots of fun are just a few of the qualities that can be found in this most interesting city.

The Copenhagen Card is a great way to see the city—it provides free admissions to over 60 attractions and museums and unlimited travel on the local bus, rail, and underground transportation in the greater Copenhagen area. The Copenhagen Card is available from the City Information Tourist Offices and is valid from 24 hours to 72 hours. Costs start at DKK 199 (US$33).

Call 212-885-9700 or visit: www.visitdenmark.com .