A visit to Copenhagen makes a superb, if pricey, short break. With some of the most expensive prices in Europe for food and drink, you'll need deep pockets for your weekend away. However, it is well worth the expense, with outstanding quality and some unique tastes.

Float through the Danish capital's picture-perfect canals on a Copenhagen city break, where you'll find pretty parks, palaces and pavement cafés lining the water's edge. 

Cobbled paths follow Copenhagen's sparkly-clean waterways down to the mega-modern opera house, facing the city's main castle.

From here it's a short hop to Kastellet, a huge star-shaped fortress complex dotted with old churches and a windmill. The masts of wooden sailboats clatter gently alongside the pastel-coloured townhouses of Nyhavn, where locals come for a beer and a natter. 

At the centre of it all is Strøget, a long and twisty shopping street full of cosy coffee shops, all the designer stores and plenty of places to indulge in some retail therapy. Stores such as Illums Bolighus, Normann and the Royal Copenhagen porcelain shop are well worth visiting for Danish design. 

A highlight of any visit to the city is to walk along the waterfront to the Little Mermaid situated at Langelinje Pier. The tiny statue, inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen story, is now over 100 years old and still draws huge crowds year round.

The city also has an alternative culture in the form of Christiania, the self-declared free town area of the city centre devoted to communal living and craft business. Run on eco lines, many also see it as a drugs haven and party area. However, it is stacked with cultural experiences and places to eat and drink.

Arriving into Copenhagen airport, trains leave for the city every 10 minutes from Terminal 3. A free shuttle bus connects the railway station with other terminals. Avoid travelling by taxi during rush hour, when journey times can easily double.

Getting around is easy. You can pick up free public bikes, which are available to borrow everywhere - just look out for the racks. There is a metro system in the city; however buses are the best option for longer journeys while on holiday in Copenhagen. Kids ride for half-price with a paying adult. In addition you can also use the water taxi. These boats give a great perspective on the city. Just flag them down just as you would a regular cab although in winter, you'll need to book ahead.

The summer months bring long days of mild and sunny weather, with temperatures often reaching the high 20s. You'll need your sun cream and summer clothes and Copenhagen becomes a very outdoor city at this time of year, with people enjoying the many green spaces and waterfront.

In winter it can be icy cold with bitter arctic winds whistling in off the harbour, so it's always best to wrap up well to cope with the sub-zero temperatures which can be experienced on the coldest days.

Spring and autumn are great times to go on holiday to Copenhagen. Spring flowers bring colour to the city centre and autumn has the city's parks at their best with the leaves changing colour from green to gold and red.

Copenhagen Beer Festival; May: This annual festival celebrates the lagers brewed right here in the city, including world renowned Carlsberg. It is held on the site once run as a brewery for the famous Danish brand.

Copenhagen Jazz Festival; July: As a major centre for jazz, the annual festival is a big draw for aficionados from across Europe and beyond. Held in the many jazz clubs across the city, as well as in the open streets and parks, you will find many international names playing. 

Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix; August: Streets are closed and classic cars race around the city along a 2.6km route. With a mixture of both excitement and nostalgia, it makes for a great atmosphere for all.

Families: Kids of all ages are sure to have a giggle at Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest theme parks. It's full of fun roller coasters and rides, with big flowery gardens all around.  At Christmas time the park is turned into a winter wonderland and is a wonderful place to visit for both adults and children.

Active types: With wide bicycle lanes, free public bikes and a pancake-flat terrain, Copenhagen is a great place to go cycling. Don't fancy doing it alone? Then take a two-wheeled tour through the medieval old town. 

Relaxing: Get your taste buds around salt liquorice and cinnamon buns - two essential local treats - on a relaxing afternoon stroll through Østerbro, one of the city's leafiest districts.

Romance: Climb aboard a floating restaurant near the former home of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen, and enjoy a candlelit dinner of fresh seafood. 

Free & cheap: At midday, head to Amalienborg Palace, the winter home of the Danish Royal family, to watch the changing of the guard. This happens whatever the weather, so bring a brolly in case it rains!