Hotspot rewards holidaymakers with free meals and wine for good behaviour

The city will try offering the rewards to those who stick to environmental rules and guidelines, in a bid to crack down on ‘bad tourists’

Tourists who play by the rules are in for a treat with free drinks, meals, and attraction tickets as part of a unique initiative aimed at promoting responsible tourism. This innovative approach is a stark contrast to other cities that have introduced ‘tourist taxes’ or hefty fines for rule-breakers.

Copenhagen is set to charm visitors and locals alike who follow environmental guidelines with complimentary dining, wine, tours, and museum visits. Acts like cycling to a destination or picking up trash will earn rewards, including public transport perks.

For example, tourists who bring plastic waste to the National Gallery of Denmark can participate in an art workshop at no cost.

Dubbed CopenPay, this scheme is designed to safeguard the environment while bolstering Copenhagen’s vital tourism industry, which sees 15 million visitors annually contributing 118.2 billion Danish kroner, roughly £13.5 billion, to the economy.

While some cities like Venice have resorted to taxing tourists, and places like the Spanish islands face protests over tourism’s environmental toll, Copenhagen’s strategy is refreshingly positive, reports Birmingham Live.

Kristijan Svajnzger, Regional General Manager for Northern Eastern Europe at Intrepid Travel, praised the concept to Business Insider: “This is a great way to educate and reward people who are doing the right thing rather than penalize people who are doing the wrong thing when it comes to sustainability.”

The CopenPay scheme is set to kick off its trial run on July 15.

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a city rich in history, culture, and modern charm. Here are some of the key attractions:

1. Tivoli Gardens:

   • One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens offers a mix of traditional rides, beautiful gardens, and live entertainment.

2. Nyhavn:

   • This historic waterfront district is known for its colourful 17th and 18th-century buildings, numerous restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.

3. The Little Mermaid Statue:

   • Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, this iconic bronze statue is a must-see for visitors.

4. Rosenborg Castle:

   • A Renaissance castle housing the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia, set in the beautiful King’s Garden.

5. Amalienborg Palace:

   • The winter residence of the Danish royal family, consisting of four identical classical palace façades around an octagonal courtyard.

6. Christiansborg Palace:

   • Home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. The palace offers insights into Danish political history and royal receptions.

7. Strøget:

   • One of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.

8. The National Museum of Denmark:

   • Denmark’s largest museum of cultural history, covering Danish and foreign cultures from ancient times to the present.

9. The Round Tower (Rundetårn):

   • A 17th-century tower with a unique spiral ramp, offering panoramic views of Copenhagen from the top.

10. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek:

    • An art museum housing an extensive collection of ancient and modern art, including works by Rodin, Gauguin, and Van Gogh.

11. Frederiksberg Gardens:

    • A romantic landscaped park with lakes, canals, and winding paths, adjacent to the Frederiksberg Palace.

12. Freetown Christiania:

    • A unique and self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood known for its alternative lifestyle and vibrant street art.

13. Copenhagen Opera House:

    • A modern architectural masterpiece located on the waterfront, offering world-class opera and ballet performances.

14. Torvehallerne Market:

    • A popular food market where you can sample Danish delicacies and international cuisine.

15. Bakken:

    • The world’s oldest operating amusement park, located just outside Copenhagen in Klampenborg.