Copenhagen, the enchanting capital of Denmark, is a city that effortlessly blends rich history with modern innovation. From its charming canals and historic architecture to its world-class cuisine and vibrant cultural scene, Copenhagen offers something for every type of traveler. If you're planning a visit to this Scandinavian gem, make sure to include these five must-visit places on your itinerary:
- Nyhavn (New Harbor): Nyhavn is arguably the most iconic and picturesque spot in Copenhagen. This 17th-century waterfront district is famous for its colorful, narrow townhouses, which line the canal and create a stunning backdrop for photos. The area is brimming with cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it an ideal place to relax, people-watch, and savor Danish cuisine. Take a canal tour departing from Nyhavn to get a unique perspective of the city from the water.
- Tivoli Gardens: Tivoli Gardens is one of the world's oldest amusement parks, dating back to 1843. This enchanting park offers a delightful blend of rides, gardens, and entertainment for visitors of all ages. In the summer, the park comes alive with vibrant flowers and nightly fireworks, while in the winter, it transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland with festive lights and market stalls. Tivoli Gardens is a place where fairy tales come to life.
- The Little Mermaid: No visit to Copenhagen is complete without seeing the iconic Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale. This small but enduring symbol of the city sits on a rock in the harbor and attracts countless visitors each year. While it may not be the most elaborate sculpture, its historical significance and the scenic surroundings make it a must-see attraction.
- Rosenborg Castle: If you're interested in Danish history and royal heritage, Rosenborg Castle is a must-visit. This 17th-century fortress turned royal residence is a beautifully preserved example of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you can explore the lavish rooms and admire the Danish crown jewels. The castle is surrounded by King's Garden, a stunning park where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
- Christiania: For a completely different experience, head to Christiania, a self-proclaimed "free town" in the heart of Copenhagen. Established by a group of hippies in the 1970s, Christiania is known for its colorful, graffiti-covered houses, artistic atmosphere, and unique way of life. While there, be sure to explore Pusher Street, where you'll find a lively market and an alternative culture unlike anything else in Copenhagen. Keep in mind that photography is restricted in certain areas, so it's essential to respect the community's rules and values.
In addition to these five captivating places, Copenhagen offers a wealth of cultural institutions, world-class dining, and vibrant neighborhoods to explore. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Denmark, the Round Tower, and the modernistic Black Diamond, the Royal Library. Explore the culinary delights of Torvehallerne food market and the innovative Nordic cuisine at one of the city's many Michelin-starred restaurants.
Copenhagen is a city that effortlessly marries its rich history with a forward-thinking, cosmopolitan attitude. It's a place where fairy tales come to life, and where old-world charm meets modern Scandinavian design. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling European capital, Copenhagen has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags, hop on a bicycle, and prepare to be enchanted by the Danish capital's unique charm and beauty.
For the first time in the history of the European Union, the percentage of sales of electric cars in the EU is higher than diesel ones. A total of one million new cars were registered in the EU in June alone.
Sales of new cars in the European Union have increased sharply since the beginning of this year. The statistics of the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) show that the bars symbolizing the registration of cars are soaring. In June alone, the increase amounted to 17.8 percent. compared to last year. This means that one million new cars appeared on European roads in a month.
Experts point out that the reason for the rebound is the resolution of the crisis in the supply chains, which prevented the import of appropriate components.
The red island on the map of registered new cars in the EU is only Hungary, where a lower value of 1.4% was recorded. compared to June last year. Other European markets recorded increases. The largest in Germany (24.8%), Spain (13.3%), France (11.5%) and Italy (9.1%).
First half of 2023
The first half of 2023 means an increase in new car registrations by 17.9 percent. compared to the first two quarters of last year. By the end of June, 5.4 million new cars had arrived on EU roads.
"The improvement in recent months indicates that the European automotive industry is recovering from the supply disruptions caused by the pandemic," ACEA emphasized.
Over the past months, the highest increases were recorded in Spain (24%), Italy (22.8%), France (15.3) and Germany (12.8).
Electrics overtook diesels
In June, electric cars accounted for 15.1% of new car registrations in the EU, an increase of over four percent compared to the previous year. For the first time in history, battery-electric vehicles overtook diesel cars and now occupy the third position in the ranking.
The second most popular choice among buyers of new cars, with a result of 24.3 percent. there are hybrid cars.
Petrol-powered cars are still in the lead (36.3%).
#ue #europeunion #europe #cars #vehicles #electriccars #diesel
Madeira is 500km from the African coast and 1000km from the European continent, 1 1/ 2 hours from the Portuguese mainland, about 3 hours from all major European countries. Like most islands of Europe, Madeira is well connected with flights from mainland Europe, the Azores, and Britain. There is a regular ferry connecting Funchal with Porto Santo, and Madeira has its own airport, which has some services to Europe.
A typical holiday to Madeira is based in or around Funchal (many major hotels are west of Funchal) and exploring Madeira is done via organised day trips or by renting a car. It is almost always sunny in Porto Santo and Funchal, as well as on the south shores of Madeira Island.
Within the Madeira Islands are dramatic natural landscapes, imposing mountains, and tropical forests, as well as a population that is welcoming, reflecting the laid-back nature of the Portuguese. Madeira is more than beaches and sunshine, and Ribeiro Frio Natural Park is a great place to explore if you would like a different outlook to life on the island. Hike any of the numerous trails crisscrossing this park, and explore the scenic beauty of the islands forests and rugged mountain environments, which is easily one of the best things to do in Madeira.
Madeira is not a classic beach vacation destination, Madeira is the place to get off and explore, soak up some local culture, or seek solitude by hiking on any one of the gorgeous trails that traverse the island. Madeira is one of the four islands of the Madeira Archipelago, offering British-style hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, and a variety of adventurous ways to explore the islands waterfalls and lush landscapes. Madeira is varied and charming, one of the truly unique vacation destinations in Europe.
Originally built in 1927 as a way of welcoming those arriving on Madeira island by sea, this is an excellent photo opportunity, offering stunning views of Desertas (uninhabited islands) and Reis Magos and Galo beaches. Madeira is not just an island to lounge around the hotel pool on (although that is definitely cool, too), but one to hike, whale watch, rock climb, snorkel, and take the road out to the gorgeous towns along the coastline.
Madeira is just a short ferry trip away from Spains Canary Islands, and less than two hours from both the Azores and mainland Portugal by plane, making it an easy, multiple-day stop on a longer regional trip. Known as the Pearl of the Atlantic, Madeira has gorgeous natural landscapes, adventurous hiking, natural pools, waterfalls, great food, and a nearly tropical feel yet within the confines of a European destination.
This Portuguese archipelago is definitely tempting, and not only because it is once again featured in Englands Travel Green List. Situated just a few hundred miles from the West African coast, Portugals relatively small island of Madeira is an incredible destination. Yet...despite that, Madeira is usually treated like just another pitstop in an Atlantic cruise, leading to a lot of tourists visiting its capital city alone.
Not only does Funchal, the capital, offer the largest choice of places to stay in Madeira, but is where you will find the largest selection of restaurants, bars, and shops.
The most typical place to have Espetada is at Camara de Lobos, but it is a dish that is found at a lot of restaurants all over Madeira. You will find espetada throughout the island, served as an appetizer or a side, and also as a sandwich: a bao do caco sandwich topped with a rego is totally tasty.
I think a 10 days - 2 weeks is a good length for your trip to Madeira (and longer if you are looking to also explore Porto Santo Island). If you are going to Madeira, you are smart to book all legs of your trip in Portugal in one single ticketing process.
You will also want to factor in driving time for getting around Madeira and for changing weather that may keep you from visiting certain places. Remember, weather can change fast and unexpectedly throughout the year, especially in the mountain areas at the centre of the island. It is during summer when the majority of travellers focus on Madeira; therefore, you will find it harder to escape from the crowds during this time of the year.
If you are looking for sunshine on a trip to Madeira, I suggest planning a little flexibility, so you can check the weather and the webcams, and choose a half-day to visit less cloudy areas on the island. I would definitely recommend booking at least 2 different accommodations, so you get the chance to experience the different aspects of Madeira, and also cut down on travel time (especially if you are looking to catch sunrise).
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