Copenhagen has three main theatres; the historic Royal Danish Theatre built in 1748, a modern theatre and a modern Opera House.

The billionaire owner of Maersk shipping acquired a small island opposite the royal palace and offered to build the city a new opera house. Apparently, the mayor requested for it to be built further out of the centre and was told that he was being “offered a gift, not a gift certificate” – the gift was accepted!

We watched a ballet performance of Giselle at the Royal Danish Theatre, a beautiful location retaining its original features.

The Tivoli Gardens opened in 1843 and is the second oldest operational amusement park in the world. It is a national institution, in keeping with its origins, with a summer season, halloween and Christmas. As well as rides, games and food/drink outlets, it holds pop and classical concerts and has lakes and gardens.

It is common for grandparents to buy annual passes for their grandchildren and for older generations to relive their memories through the eyes of new generations. Walt Disney visited and is believed to have been inspired to build his theme parks.

At the time of our visit Tivoli was in the final stages of preparations for its opening in late March. Our hotel overlooked the site. As well as observing the team hard at work from our room, we were able to visit as the hotel had permission for escorted guests to visit.

Copenhagen has been the capital of Denmark since 1416. It was traditionally thought to have been founded by Bishop Absalon to defend against pirates, although evidence suggests earlier settlements. The city has a population of 667,000, with Denmark having a total population of six million.

Initially the city was built on islands close to the Swedish coast. In the 17th century, with increased wealth from herring fishing and trade, it was expanded by creating manmade islands with interconnecting canals. Its history has been strongly influenced by being the capital of a Scandinavian group comprising Norway, Sweden, parts of Finland and Denmark or at other times in wars against Sweden.

The architecture derives from numerous influences including Dutch, French and Italian as well as more modern “Scandi”. Fires have been common, including a recent one which destroyed the Stock Exchange, resulting in buildings that date from various eras.

Copenhagen is now a foodie city with a history of pastries, pork products and herrings (not necessarily together!) which has become a home for modern young chefs with many entries in the Michelin Guide.

Although we did not join the throngs of cyclists (apparently the city has two bicycles on average per person), we found it a very good city for walking. We also avoided another local pursuit – a dip in the canals, which had been frozen over until a fortnight before – in favour of a boat trip.