When it comes to discovering the best of Copenhagen, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between where you stay and what you eat. This city offers stylish accommodation from budget hostels to luxury hotels, and a food scene that ranges from traditional smørrebrød and pastries to world-class New Nordic cuisine.
Copenhagen also has colourful harbourfront houses and charming neighbourhoods, as well as world-class dining that ranges from Michelin-starred restaurants to gourmet street food. Copenhagen indeed has something for every traveller.
So whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure, choosing the right hotel and trying out the city’s unmissable dishes will help you experience it like a local. This guide to the best of Copenhagen brings together the top stays across all budgets, along with the must-try food that no first-time visitor should miss.
Pro Tip: Check this list of the BEST things to do in Copenhagen, too!
Where to Stay in Copenhagen
Finding the right place to stay, depending on your travel style, is an important part of experiencing Copenhagen to the fullest. This city has a great range of accommodation as each neighbourhood has its own amazing qualities, so whether you’re after energetic nightlife, cosy streets, or a central base close to the sights, you’d have a lot of choices on where to stay in Copenhagen.
Budget Hotels
Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER
Urban House is a trendy hostel right next to Central Station, making it ideal for travellers who want to be in the heart of the city. It offers dorms and private rooms, with playful interiors and plenty of common spaces.
Guests love its on-site bar, bike rentals, and even a tattoo parlour, giving it a quirky edge. Stylish yet affordable, it’s a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travellers who don’t want to compromise on atmosphere.
Generator Copenhagen
Just a short walk from Nyhavn, Generator Copenhagen is a budget-friendly hostel with a modern, social vibe. Guests can choose between dorms or private rooms, all designed with comfort in mind. The lively bar and games area make it easy to meet new people, while cosy corners offer space to relax. Its central location and fun atmosphere make Generator a great option for travellers who want more than just a place to crash.
Mid-Range Hotels
Hotel SP34 (Latin Quarter)
Hotel SP34 is a stylish boutique hotel in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian minimalism with cosy touches. Its sleek rooms are perfect for travellers who appreciate design, while perks like the daily free wine hour create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
With three restaurants and a rooftop terrace, there’s plenty to enjoy without leaving the hotel. Centrally located and full of character, SP34 is a great option for couples or solo travellers seeking a chic stay.
Ibsens Hotel (Nørreport)
Located near Nørreport Station, Ibsens Hotel is an artsy yet affordable boutique option. The interiors feature quirky artwork and personal details, giving the hotel a creative, homely feel. Guests love the welcoming lounge spaces and friendly staff who make you feel right at home.
With Ibsens Hotel’s emphasis on local culture and a convenient location for exploring, it is ideal for travellers wanting an authentic and comfortable Copenhagen experience without stretching the budget too far. You can book your stay here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
Luxury Hotels
Nimb Hotel (Tivoli Gardens)
Set inside the famous Tivoli Gardens, Nimb Hotel is all about fairy-tale luxury. Each room is individually designed, many with stunning garden views. The hotel features fine dining, a rooftop pool, and a Moroccan-inspired hammam for total indulgence.
While it’s definitely a splurge, the unique setting and impeccable service make it unforgettable. For travellers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Copenhagen stay, Nimb Hotel is as magical as it gets.
Hotel d’Angleterre (Kongens Nytorv)
Hotel d’Angleterre is Copenhagen’s most iconic luxury hotel, offering historic grandeur in the heart of the city. Dating back to the 18th century, it combines elegant rooms with modern comforts, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a world-class spa.
Its location on Kongens Nytorv makes it the perfect base for sightseeing, shopping, and dining. For those who want to experience Copenhagen in the most refined way possible, this five-star landmark hotel is hard to beat.
Neighbourhood Highlight
Vesterbro
Vesterbro is one of Copenhagen’s trendiest neighbourhoods, perfect for travellers who prefer staying local rather than central. Once a working-class area, it’s now full of cool cafes, craft beer bars, and vintage shops.
The Meatpacking District is especially popular for its buzzing restaurants and nightlife. Still close to the main attractions, Vesterbro offers a vibrant, authentic vibe that feels different to the tourist-heavy centre. If you want energy and character, this neighbourhood is the place to be.
What to Eat in Copenhagen
Food is at the heart of experiencing Copenhagen, and the city’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. From traditional Danish staples to innovative New Nordic cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
So whether you’re grabbing a street hot dog, tucking into beautifully crafted smørrebrød, or sipping coffee in a cosy cafe, every bite tells a story of Danish culture.
Classic Danish Dishes
Smørrebrød (Open-Faced Sandwiches)
No trip to Copenhagen is complete without smørrebrød, the famous open-faced sandwich layered with toppings like pickled herring, roast beef, or smoked salmon. Served on dark rye bread, these colourful creations are as beautiful as they are tasty.
For a refined take, head to Aamanns 1921, where traditional recipes meet modern flair. Smørrebrød is perfect for lunch or a light bite and gives travellers a true taste of classic Danish dining.
Danish Pastries & Cinnamon Rolls
Copenhagen is a dream for pastry lovers, with buttery, flaky delights found on almost every corner. Beyond the iconic Danish pastry, you’ll find heavenly cinnamon rolls and cardamom buns that pair perfectly with a coffee.
Locals swear by Juno the Bakery for its cult-favourite pastries, while Lagos Coffee is a reliable stop for a sweet morning treat. Sampling these baked goods is the ideal way to start your day in Copenhagen.
Hot Dogs, Copenhagen Style
Street hot dogs might not sound uniquely Danish, but in Copenhagen, they’ve been elevated into something truly special. Vendors across the city serve gourmet versions, with toppings like crispy onions, pickles, and remoulade.
They’re cheap, cheerful, and surprisingly delicious. For one of the best, visit John’s Hot Dog Deli, where the hot dogs come with plenty of personality. It’s a simple but iconic snack that every visitor should try at least once.
Food Halls & Markets
Torvehallerne Food Hall
A foodie’s paradise, Torvehallerne Food Hall is a must-visit in central Copenhagen. This bustling food market is home to more than 60 stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and artisanal cheese to organic produce and gourmet coffee.
It’s the perfect spot to graze your way through local flavours or pick up snacks for a picnic. Popular with locals and tourists alike, Torvehallerne is a great introduction to Copenhagen’s food culture, all under one roof.
Fine Dining & New Nordic Cuisine
New Nordic Cuisine
Copenhagen is world-renowned for its cutting-edge approach to food, led by the New Nordic movement. At its heart is Noma, repeatedly named the world’s best restaurant, though reservations are tough to get.
Other Michelin-starred restaurants like Geranium also showcase creativity with seasonal, local ingredients. For a more accessible option, try Restaurant Barr for Nordic-inspired dishes in a cosy setting. Dining this way is as much about experience as flavour.
Seafood & Local Flavours
Seafood: Herring & Fresh Fish
Seafood plays a big role in Danish cuisine, and trying herring is practically a rite of passage in Copenhagen. Often pickled and served with rye bread, it’s a dish that has been part of the culture for centuries. A classic spot to enjoy it is Restaurant Schønnemann, which specialises in traditional smørrebrød and herring plates. For seafood lovers, this is the place to taste authentic Danish flavours in a timeless setting.
Cafes & Coffee Culture
Coffee & Hygge Cafes
Copenhagen has one of the best coffee cultures in Europe, with a focus on quality beans and cosy atmospheres. Coffee isn’t just a drink here, it’s part of the hygge lifestyle, inviting you to slow down and relax.
The Coffee Collective is a standout name, with several locations serving ethically sourced, expertly brewed coffee. Whether you’re after a flat white or a filter, Copenhagen’s café scene won’t disappoint.
Copenhagen is a city that effortlessly combines style and cosiness, making it a destination that feels both exciting and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re strolling along the colourful harbourfront, exploring trendy neighbourhoods like Vesterbro, or tucking into a plate of beautifully crafted smørrebrød, the city has a way of making you feel at home while still surprising you at every turn.
Choosing the right accommodation can shape your experience, from budget-friendly hostels full of character to elegant luxury hotels that offer pure indulgence. And of course, no visit would be complete without sampling both sides of the city’s food culture: the traditional dishes that have stood the test of time, and the innovative New Nordic cuisine that has put Copenhagen on the global culinary map.
By mixing central stays with local neighbourhoods, and balancing classic food with fine dining, you’ll discover the very best of Copenhagen in an unforgettable way.