From London Lights to Copenhagen Cool: A Week in Europe’s Most Iconic Cities

Upon arriving in London, you'll immediately immerse yourself in its rich history and culture. Begin your day exploring the charming streets of Notting Hill, known for its vibrant houses and bustling Portobello Road Market. Then, head to Westminster Abbey, where British monarchs have been crowned for centuries, and marvel at the grandeur of Big Ben and the London Eye. To cap off your first day, check into the sophisticated Kimpton Fitzroy London, where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary luxury or Flemings Mayfair, with a location you can’t beat. End the evening with dinner at Kol, fusing modern Mexican cuisine with British ingredients.

Your second day is dedicated to London's world-renowned shopping and culinary delights. Start your morning with a lavish brunch at Chiltern Firehouse, a hotspot for celebrities and gourmet aficionados alike. Spend the rest of the day indulging in retail therapy at Harrods, where you can explore luxury goods, Selfridges for cutting-edge fashion and Liberty London for its iconic prints and unique finds. After a day of shopping, visit the British Museum, where you can see the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. In the evening, savor a Michelin-starred dinner at Gymkhana, where the flavors of India are elevated to new heights. Then end your night with a visit to the Connaught Bar, known for its elegant cocktails in a refined setting, rated number five on The World’s 50 Best Bars for 2023.

Begin your third day in London with a visit to Buckingham Palace. If you time it right, you can witness the Changing of the Guard, a quintessentially British experience. Next, explore the serene beauty of Regent’s Park, perhaps even taking a boat out on the lake. From there, wander through the vibrant streets of Soho, known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes and art galleries. Head over to the Southbank, where you can enjoy riverside views and explore the Tate Modern, home to an impressive collection of modern art. In the evening, dine at Churchill Arms, part pub part Thai restaurant. For an evening activity, enjoy a West End show for a true London theater experience.

On your final day in London, dive deeper into its storied past with a visit to the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels. Nearby, take a stroll across Tower Bridge for iconic photo opportunities. If you’re in the mood for more shopping, head to Covent Garden, a lively area filled with street performers, boutique shops and cafes. Make your way over to Fortnum & Mason for one of London’s best afternoon tea experiences. Don’t miss a stop at the National Gallery, where you can admire masterpieces by Van Gogh, Turner and da Vinci. Your London adventure wraps up with a final night out at Oblix at the Shard, where you can savor exquisite cuisine while overlooking the twinkling lights of the city.

Arrive in Copenhagen and make your way to the elegant Villa Copenhagen or Nimb Hotel, both truly remarkable hotels. Start your Danish adventure with a peaceful stroll through Enghave Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. From there, visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. It transforms into a magical wonderland at night with its illuminated rides and charming atmosphere. Head down to Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s picturesque waterfront lined with colorful 17th-century townhouses and bustling cafes. Be sure to visit the Little Mermaid statue, a must-see symbol of the city, and the Glyptotek, an art museum housing works from ancient times to the 19th century. For dinner, indulge in La Bachina, nestled by the harbor and offers a chic yet relaxed dining experience with Italian-inspired cuisine, perfect for enjoying a sunny day with stunning waterfront views. For a Michelin-star-worthy experience, head over to Geranium for a meal you won't forget.

Your second day in Copenhagen begins with a visit to Rosenborg Castle, where you can explore the opulent interiors and see the Danish Crown Jewels. Next, wander through The King’s Garden, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk. Make your way to Torvehallerne Market, where you can sample Danish delicacies and pick up some gourmet treats. In the afternoon, take a canal tour through the city, offering a unique perspective of Copenhagen’s historic and contemporary architecture. After the tour, visit the Bohemian district of Christiania, known for its alternative lifestyle and colorful murals. For dinner, dine at The Alchemist, number eight on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2023. Each dish is a work of art in an immersive dining experience. Enjoy 50 impressions, through various acts taking guests to different locations within the building, and about six hours of dining in an industrial building that has been transformed to provide a journey like no other has ever experienced. Reservations are hard to get, but if you are lucky to get one – you won’t regret it.

On your last day in Copenhagen, start with an exciting visit to CopenHill, an architectural marvel that combines a ski slope, hiking trails and a power plant. Afterward, immerse yourself in Danish design along Stroget Street, Copenhagen’s main shopping area, where you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to unique local brands. Visit the Danish Architecture Center and the Royal Library to gain insight into the city’s architectural heritage. Explore the unique shops at Vaernedamsvej, often referred to as “Little Paris” for its chic boutiques and cozy cafes. End your trip with a stop at Ruby, one of the world’s best bars for a modern take on cocktail classics. Recommended day trips outside of Copenhagen include: the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, which beautifully blends contemporary art with nature, offering breathtaking seaside views and thought-provoking exhibitions. You can also check out Kronborg Castle, A UNESCO World Heritage site, a magnificent Renaissance fortress in Helsingør, famed as the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The next day, check out and head to the airport for your return flight home, with memories of two vibrant and unforgettable cities.