TEXT E Are you too old for fairy
tales If you think so, Copenhagen is sure to change your mind.
See the city first from the water. In the harbour sits Denmark’s
best-known landmark: the Little Mermaid. Remember her She left the world of the
Sea People in search of a human soul in one of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved
fantasies. From the harbour you can get a feel for the attractive "city of green
spires". At twilight Or in cloudy weather, the copper-covered spires of old
castles and churches lend the city a dream-like atmosphere; you’ll think you’ve
stepped into a watercolour painting. Copenhagen is a city on a
human scale. You don’t have to hurry to walk the city’s centre in less than an
hour. Exploring it will take much longer. But that’s easy.
Copenhagen was the first city to declare a street for pedestrians only. The city
has less traffic noise and pollution than any other European capital.
Stroll away from the harbour along the riverbanks, you’ll see the modest
Amalienborg Palace first. Completed in the mid 18th century, it still
houses the royal family. The Danish Royal Guard is on duty. At noon, watch the
changing of the guard. Churches and castles are almost all that
remain of the original city. See one of the spires up close--really
close--at the 17th century Church of Our Savior. Brave souls may climb the 150
stairs winding outside the spire to its top. If you’re afraid of heights, or if
it’s a windy day, you can forget the climb. But then you’ll miss the magnificent
view. Keep going, to the Christiansborg Palace. The town of
Copenhagen began here. Stop and visit the medieval castle. Parliament and the
Royal Reception Chambers are open, too. Then continue to Nyhavn, a narrow
waterway dug by soldiers in 1673, you’ll understand why Hans Christian Andersen’
made this charming waterway his home. A specially-built mirror outside his
apartment window allowed him to peek unseen at the world outside.
Nyhavn is peaceful, an ideal place for lingering and people-watching.
You’ll usually see them dressed casually, though they are among Europe’s
affluent people. Danes are taught not to stand out in a crowd. But they do know
how to party, especially during holidays. To see them having
fun, and to have some fun yourself, cross Andersens Boulevard and enter Tivoli
Gardens. You won’t be alone. More than five million people a year come here.
They come to dance, dine, take in outdoor and indoor concerts, see ballets and
laugh at the mimes. One tip: bring a lot of money. Some of the more than 20
restaurants are among the city’s most expensive. Even without money, you can
still enjoy the proud old trees, the coloured night lights and the beautiful
gardens. You might feel as if you are in a fairy tale. Where can one have a magnificent view of the city
A.In a church. B.In a castle. C.In the harbour. D.In a garden.