I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Copenhagen to help you choose the perfect place to suit your travels.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Copenhagen 💎
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Nimb Hotel
- 🔮 Boutique hotel: Hotel Sanders
- ✨ 5-Star: Copenhagen Marriott Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Kong Arthur
- 💸 Budget-friendly: Wakeup Copenhagen
- ✈️ Near Airport: Clarion Hotel Copenhagen Airport
- 🌇 Best Views of the City: Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: AC Hotel by Marriott Bella Sky Copenhagen
Despite the fact that Copenhagen is the capital and the most populous city of Denmark, it is quite small. Only about 600 thousand people live here, and the city itself is quite compact and easy to walk around. But that doesn’t mean that there is no diversity here.
Indeed, there are many neighborhoods in and around the city, and all of them have something different that sets them apart from each other.
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Copenhagen 📃
If you are in a hurry or want a quick summary, here is an overview of the best neighborhoods in Copenhagen. Click on the name of the neighborhood to see the best places to stay:
- 👀 For the First Time: Indre By
- 💸 Budget-friendly: Nørrebro
- 🍸 For Nightlife: Vesterbro
- 💑 For Couples: Christianshavn
- 👪 For Families: Østerbro, Frederiksberg
- ⭐ Best Value for Money: Nyhavn
- 🔮 For Local Vibe: Amager, Christiania
1. Indre By (Copenhagen City Centre) – Best Neighborhood in Copenhagen for the First Time 🔥
Located right in the heart of Copenhagen, Indre By is the vibrant historic district and home to many of the city’s top attractions. As a first-time visitor, Indre By is the perfect area to start your explorations of wonderful Copenhagen.
🚏 Well-connected: Indre By is extremely convenient to reach as it sits between the city’s main train station, Nørreport Station, and its central metro hub at Kongens Nytorv. Many buses also service the area.
🏰 Royal sights: There are many attractions here, such as:
- Amalienborg Palace and its ceremonial changing of the guard
- Christiansborg Palace, housing the Danish Parliament and the Royal Reception Rooms
- Rosenborg Castle and gardens, home to the crown jewels
- National Gallery of Denmark with exhibitions on Danish society, culture and history
Beyond the main tourist sights, Indre By invites you to simply wander its charming streets and canals. Pop into the trendy shops and cafés around Strøget pedestrian zone or relax in squares like Gammeltorv.
🍴 For dining, restaurants concentrate in Indre By and nearby Christianshavn, spanning simple quick bites to Michelin star venues. Copenhagen takes pride in its world-class New Nordic Cuisine, featuring local ingredients.
🛏️ Well-located stays: With Copenhagen’s small size, Indre By places you right in the heart of the action no matter where you stay. You’ll find options running the gamut from youth hostels to 5-star luxury hotels.
Where to stay in Indre By?
Expensive Hotels:
- Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden – an elegant colonial-style boutique hotel with luxurious rooms and spa.
- Radisson Collection Royal Hotel – a luxurious historic hotel located opposite the central station with elegant interiors.
- Hotel Skt Petri – a modern design hotel in a historic building with a great location in the heart of the city.
Medium price category:
- Apartments by Brøchner Hotels – scandinavian-style apartments with fully equipped kitchens and a convenient location.
- Scandic Norreport – modern Scandinavian hotel with comfortable rooms and a good location near the center.
- Hotel Alexandra – a charming family-run boutique hotel with a personalized touch and warm hospitality.
Budget Hotels:
- Hotel Bethel – a simple and inexpensive hotel with basic amenities in a quiet location near the center.
- Wakeup Copenhagen – a modern budget hotel with minimalist design and good value for money.
2. Nørrebro – Best Area to Stay in Copenhagen on a Budget 💸
Located just northwest of the city center, Nørrebro is one of Copenhagen’s most diverse and vibrant neighborhoods.
🎨 Artsy area: Nørrebro has an artsy vibe with plenty to see and do. Don’t miss these Nørrebro highlights:
- Elmegade and Jægersborggade streets – wander past trendy boutiques and cafés in converted factories and former breweries
- Superkilen Park – an urban space with objects donated from 60 countries
- Coffee Collective – some of Copenhagen’s best specialty coffee and cozy spots to relax
- Nørrebro Bryghus – sample inventive craft beers at this neighborhood microbrewery
- Ravnsborggade – a street lined with ethnic eateries and shops
Getting around is easy, as the neighborhood is conveniently served by several metro and bus lines that can whisk you to main attractions in under 15 minutes.
🥂 When evening comes, join young Danes bar-hopping and enjoying Nørrebro’s renowned nightlife. There are concerts at Rust, homey wine bars like Malbeck Vinotek, and much-loved watering holes like Cafe Retro.
👨👩👧👦 Not kid-friendly: For families traveling to Copenhagen with children it makes sense to choose a different area as the streets can be busy on weekends, but for other inquisitive travelers I would recommend considering Nørrebro as a homebase.
Where to stay in Nørrebro?
Medium price category:
- Hotel Nora Copenhagen – a cozy small Scandinavian-style hotel with clean and comfortable rooms. Located in a quiet location close to the metro station.
- a&o Copenhagen Nørrebro – a modern hostel with spacious rooms at a reasonable price. A great option for young people and budget travelers, there are plenty of cafes and bars nearby.
Budget Hotels:
- Urban Camper Hostel & Bar – a fun and lively hostel with creative interior design. Offers both dorm beds and private rooms, there is a bar and a shared kitchen.
- Globalhagen Hostel – a simple and inexpensive hostel with friendly staff. Offers clean beds in multi-bedded rooms.
3. Vesterbro – Where to Stay in Copenhagen for Nightlife 💃🏻
🌃 Urban feel: As you venture into Vesterbro from the central train station, you’ll immediately notice the contrast from old town’s cobblestone streets. Vesterbro has grittier urban feel, with some of the best restaurants and nightlife in Copenhagen.
🏃♂️ Walkable ‘hood: Getting around Vesterbro couldn’t be easier. The neighborhood is compact and very walkable. Many of Copenhagen’s top attractions, such as Tivoli Gardens and the Strøget shopping district, are one to two miles from the hotel.
🚲 Bike friendly: And Copenhagen’s bike share program has many stations in Vesterbro, allowing you to traverse the neighborhood on two wheels like a local.
🔝 Top attractions in Vesterbro include:
- Carlsberg Brewery Tour – See where one of the world’s most popular beers is made and sample freshly brewed pints straight from the source
- Istedgade Street – Vesterbro’s colorful main thoroughfare where you can shop and bar-hop
Don’t miss Kødbyen “Meatpacking District” – trendy cafes, restaurants and nightclubs occupy what was once Copenhagen’s meatpacking facilities. Also home to a thriving art gallery scene.
Vesterbro is the perfect neighborhood to stay in if you’re a young couple looking to drink in Copenhagen’s best bars.
Where to stay in Vesterbro?
Expensive Hotels:
- Villa Copenhagen – elegant boutique hotel in a preserved historic building with luxurious rooms and restaurant, located in the city center.
- Nimb Hotel – chic hotel with exquisite design in fabulous Tivoli, offers personalized service and fine cuisine.
- Go Hotel Ansgar – a comfortable hotel in a good location near Central Station with good value for money.
Medium price category:
- Grand Joanne – a cozy Danish-style boutique hotel with friendly staff and a great location near Rådhuspladsen.
- Absalon Hotel – a comfortable hotel with traditional design and a homely atmosphere, located in the heart of Vesterbro.
- Hotel Tiffany – small cozy hotel in a picturesque location overlooking the lake, offers reasonable prices and good service.
Budget Hotels:
- CityHub Copenhagen – a futuristic modern style hostel with capsule rooms at an affordable price in an upscale neighborhood.
- Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER – modern hostel with a bright design and a variety of rooms at budget prices, well located.
- Woodah Hostel – a fun and stylish hostel with spacious common areas, offering low-cost accommodation for young people.
4. Christianshavn – Romantic Heart of Copenhagen 💖
🌉 Neighborhood islets: Christianshavn is a relatively small neighborhood consisting of several islets connected by small bridges. Formally Christianshavn is part of the center, but the district, founded by King Christian the 4th in 1618, is something independent.
👟 5-min walk: District is located just across the harbor from Copenhagen’s main attractions like Amalienborg Palace and Nyhavn canal. It’s an easy 5-10 minute walk over the Knippelsbro Bridge from the city center. You can also take bus #40 or canal bus 992 to get there.
❔ What to see and do:
- Christianshavn Canal & Harbor: Stroll or rent kayaks along the picturesque canals lined with houseboats, cafes, and trendy eateries
- The Church of Our Saviour: Climb up the 400-step spire for stunning 360-degree panoramas over the city and harbor below
🍴 Good eats: Christianshavn has lots of cozy cafes and good restaurants featuring classic Danish open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød), seafood, pastries, and specialty coffee drinks. Try the popular Cafe Liva for brunch or Lagkagehuset Bakery for Danish pastries.
This is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Copenhagen, especially in the summer when the area comes alive.
All hotels in Christianshavn →
5. Østerbro – Where to Stay in Copenhagen with Family 👦🏻
🌇 Central locale: On the northeastern edge of the center of Copenhagen lies the neighborhood known as Østerbro. Area offers visitors easy access to Copenhagen’s top attractions as well as an authentic local lifestyle.
💰 Upscale vibes: Ostebro is one of the most upscale and it feels that way when you walk around this neighborhood. There are many parks, stores and restaurants. There is an atmosphere of tranquility and affluence.
🔥 Top attractions and activities in Østerbro include:
- Fælledparken – Lush park that hosts concerts and festivals
- Svanemølle Beach – 4,000 sqm. sandy beach with a 130-meter long pier into the water
- Århus Plads market – a lively outdoor market selling fresh local produce and goods
- Bopa Plads – a funky square with colorful street art and captivating architecture
Many major bus routes also have stops along the main thoroughfares of Østerbrogade and Nørrebrogade, connecting directly to Copenhagen’s central train station and metro lines.
👪 Family-friendly: Ostebro is very quiet and perfect for a family vacation. So if you are traveling to Copenhagen with children and want to stay in a nice hotel, this is a great option.
Where to stay in Østerbro?
Expensive Hotels:
- Charlottehaven – elegant boutique hotel in the style of 19th-century Danish townhouses with a Danish restaurant and spa.
- Adina Apartment Hotel Copenhagen – modern, spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and panoramic views of the city.
- Audo Copenhagen – a luxury design hotel with a local cuisine restaurant, 24-hour fitness center and meeting rooms.
Mid-range price range:
- Comwell Copenhagen Portside Dolce by Wyndham – comfortable Scandinavian-style hotel with pool, sauna and close to the harbor.
- Hotel 9 små hjem – a charming small hotel in Danish tradition with a cozy atmosphere.
- Rye115 Hotel – modern design hotel with restaurant, bar and rooms with harbor view.
6. Nyhavn – Best Value for Money 🌟
🌇 Picturesque harbor: Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Nyhavn is a picturesque, bustling harbor and entertainment district known for its colorful 17th- and 18th-century townhouses. As one of the Danish capital’s most iconic areas, it is a must-see for first-time visitors.
🚶♂️ Take a stroll: Once you arrive in Nyhavn, it is easy to explore the neighborhood on foot. Stroll along the lively waterfront promenade or pop into one of the many restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating. Be sure to sample traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches or seafood dishes.
🍻 Lively nightlife: In the evening, Nyhavn transforms into a lively nightlife spot. The many bars and pubs, ranging from traditional Danish to modern and trendy, fill up with locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere feels almost festival-like during the summer months.
🏨 Save on hotels: Nyhavn’s hotels are either cheap and brand new or incredibly luxurious, and you get more for your money than in the city center itself. So I recommend booking your Copenhagen accommodation here if you want to save money on accommodation or stay right by the harbor in the summertime.
Where to stay in Nyhavn?
Expensive Hotels:
- 71 Nyhavn Hotel – an elegant boutique hotel in a historic 17th-century building overlooking the Nyhavn Canal, offers luxurious rooms with chic design.
- Copenhagen Admiral Hotel – a modern, premium hotel with panoramic views of the Royal Opera House and the Nyhavn Canal, offering a high level of service and sophisticated design.
- Phoenix Copenhagen – a chic 5-star hotel with luxurious interiors, located opposite the royal palace Amalienborg.
Medium price category:
- Hotel Skt. Annæ – a cozy boutique hotel in a historic 17th century building opposite the church Skt. Annæ, features a homely atmosphere and a personalized approach.
- Copenhagen Strand – a modern 4-star hotel with a wide range of rooms in different categories.
- Hotel Bethel – a comfortable hotel in a 19th century maritime school building overlooking Nyhavn harbor, offers Scandinavian-style rooms at reasonable prices.
Budget Hotels:
- Babette Guldsmeden – charming small eco-style hotel with a cozy atmosphere, has spacious rooms with an unconventional design at an affordable price.
- Generator Copenhagen – a trendy hostel with a bright interior and common areas, mainly for young people.
- Wakeup Copenhagen – borgergade is a simple and inexpensive hotel with minimalistic room design.
7. Frederiksberg – Best Neighborhood to Stay Away from the Hustle and Bustle 🕊
🏘 Independent area: Frederiksberg is its own municipality, independent of Copenhagen municipality, but still part of the city. Surrounded on all sides by Copenhagen, Frederiksberg has no borders separating it from Copenhagen. However, Frederiksberg has its own mayor and council.
💵 Elite: This neighborhood is one of the wealthiest and most elite in the city. It also has the most green spaces, which is why it has been nicknamed “Copenhagen’s Green Village”.
🚶♂️ Compact: Frederiksberg is compact enough to explore on your own within just a few hours. Top things to see and do include:
- Wander the paths of Frederiksberg Garden
- Check out the collection at Storm P. Museum
- Stroll down Gammel Kongevej for shopping and cafés
- Grab an organic bite at Copenhagen Street Food
And don’t forget to visit the ancient Copenhagen Zoo.
🤝 Balanced experience: From my observations, there are fewer expats/immigrants living here. So Frederiksberg strikes a balance of being close to Copenhagen’s biggest sights while also giving a charming local experience.
Where to stay in Frederiksberg?
Expensive hotels:
- Scandic Falkoner – a modern hotel in an 8-story building with panoramic views of the city, next to Frederiksberg and Sønnermarken parks.
- Hotel Ottilia by Brøchner Hotels – an elegant boutique hotel in a historic 19th century mansion with sophisticated design.
Medium price category:
- Coco Hotel – cozy small hotel with bright modern design, conveniently located near Forum metro station.
- Carlton 66 Guldsmeden – eco-hotel in colonial style with elements of Indian design, there is a spa.
Budget hotels:
- CityHub Copenhagen – a high-tech hostel with smart rooms and a common space for socializing.
- Rooms in quiet Yellow Courtyard Apartment – apartment with fully equipped kitchen in a quiet location near Falconer Allee metro station.
8. Christiania – Best Area in Copenhagen to Explore Alternative Culture 💫
🏴☠️ Self-governing: This unique 7-hectare area has been an autonomous community since 1971 when a group of citizens took over an abandoned military barracks and established their own set of rules and self-governing system separate from the Danish government.
What makes Christiania so special is it has maintained its status as a “free town” for over 50 years, becoming a beloved fixture of Copenhagen culture.
📸 Must-see: Some key things to see and do in Christiania include:
- The Main Street (Pusher Street) – Stroll past the local market stalls and creative artwork displays
- Grab a bite at one of the casual outdoor cafes
- See a concert at the antique-filled Loppen venue
- Go for a peaceful boat ride along the canal
Area sits adjacent to the Christianshavn metro station, providing direct access from downtown Copenhagen in just 10 minutes.
📵 Strict rules: It should be noted that the neighborhood is characterized by fairly strict rules of conduct. Some of these rules include no driving, no stealing, no taking pictures on Pusher Street, and no drug use in public places.
🏨 Nearby stays: Christiania is a unique place in Copenhagen and there are no hotels in the immediate vicinity of this “free city”. However, you can opt for hotels in the neighboring Christianshavn area.
9. Amager – See the Capital of Denmark from a Different Perspective 🎴
🏝️ Island getaway: Amager Island is located just across the harbor from Christianshavn and Islands Brygge, two stops from Copenhagen Central Station on the metro. Visitors can take buses or bikes over the Langebro or Knippelsbro bridges in about 10 minutes.
🌊 Beachy vibes: Back to Amager, the island is mostly residential, with a few businesses, a few hotels, and plenty of entertainment venues. Here are some of the attractions on the island:
- Amager Strandpark: Miles of sandy beaches, lagoons and nature trails
- Den Blå Planet: Europe’s largest aquarium featuring local sea life.
- DR Byen: The Danish Broadcasting Corporation’s modern studios with free tours and concerts
🍔 Casual bites: Amager offers affordable choices for meals like cozy cafes, burger bars and pizza places as well as upscale nordic fare. Or grab a craft beer at BRUS microbrewery. For music and cocktails, head across to Christianshavn.
Amager lets visitors experience a more authentic side of Copenhagen alongside its top city attractions.
Where to stay in Amager?
Expensive Hotels:
- AC Hotel by Marriott Bella Sky Copenhagen – a modern premium hotel with panoramic views of the city, featuring spacious rooms with elegant design and a high level of service.
- Zoku Copenhagen – stylish loft-style apartments offering privacy and home comforts.
- By The Pier apartments – chic apartments with sea views, equipped with the latest technology and excellent amenities for a comfortable stay.
Medium price range:
- By the Beach Gardens – cozy apartments in a quiet location near the beach, ideal for families at a reasonable price.
- Scandic CPH Strandpark – modern eco-style hotel with a good location close to the waterfront, offers a comfortable vacation at a reasonable price.
- By The Beach – spacious apartments within walking distance of the beach, with basic amenities for an affordable family vacation.
Budget Hotels:
- Sundbyvestervarehus – small cozy hotel in a historic building with authentic design, located close to the airport at a reasonable price.
- Bak Guesthouse – simple and inexpensive mini-hotel with basic amenities, a good location for travelers on a budget.
Best Hotels near Copenhagen International Airport ✈
Let’s explore three top-notch hotels near Copenhagen Airport.
1. 🌟 Modern Elegance: Clarion Hotel Copenhagen Airport
Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the airport terminals, Clarion Hotel offers a seamless blend of convenience and luxury. Boasting spacious rooms with panoramic views of the city, this hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers alike.
Whether you’re an early riser or enjoy a leisurely morning, Clarion has you covered with its diverse breakfast options. From continental classics to local Danish delicacies, the hotel’s restaurant provides a delightful start to your day.
2. ♻️ Eco-friendly: Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers
A pioneer in eco-friendly accommodations, this hotel combines chic design with a commitment to minimizing its environmental impact.
The on-site restaurant displays a culinary travel which combines global flavors with Danish inputs and provides gastronomic experience for your taste buds.
3. 🇩🇰 Nordic Charm: Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel
Conveniently located near the airport, this hotel offers a blend of modernity and Danish charm. Well-equipped rooms have contemporary design features as well as a natural light that floods in through panoramic windows to create a warm atmosphere.
The on-site restaurant serves a delightful array of Nordic dishes, allowing you to savor the local flavors. Additionally, the hotel’s concierge service is more than willing to guide you to nearby attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit to Copenhagen.
Best Neighborhoods and Hotels in Copenhagen on a Map 📍
FAQs about Visiting Copenhagen City ❔
Is Copenhagen a walkable city?
Copenhagen is indeed a highly walkable city, with its compact layout and well-designed infrastructure. Exploring the city by foot allows you to appreciate its charming streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find many pedestrian-friendly areas, parks, and waterfront promenades that make strolling through Copenhagen a delightful experience.
What is the most trendy neighborhood in Copenhagen?
When it comes to trendy neighborhoods, Vesterbro stands out as one of the most vibrant and fashionable areas in Copenhagen. Its eclectic mix of art galleries, hip cafes, and stylish boutiques attracts a young and dynamic crowd. Vesterbro is also known for its lively nightlife scene, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s contemporary culture.
How much time is enough for Copenhagen?
The ideal duration for a visit to Copenhagen depends on your interests and the depth of exploration you seek. However, a well-rounded experience can be achieved in about 3 to 4 days. This timeframe allows you to visit major attractions, indulge in local cuisine, and absorb the unique atmosphere of the city.
Where to stay for nightlife in Copenhagen?
For those seeking accommodations close to the nightlife action, the districts of Nørrebro and Vesterbro are excellent choices. These neighborhoods boast a variety of bars, clubs, and late-night venues, ensuring that you’re in the midst of Copenhagen’s vibrant social scene.
What is the safest neighborhood in Copenhagen?
When prioritizing safety, Frederiksberg is often considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Copenhagen. This residential area offers a relaxed atmosphere and well-maintained surroundings.
