Copenhagen, the charming capital of Denmark, is a favorite destination for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences, delicious food, and picturesque scenery. The city boasts an array of hostels to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. In this guide, I’ll share the best hostels in Copenhagen, delving into their unique features, pros, and cons to help you pick the best place to stay.
Since I have lived in the city for ten years, I know every part of the city and exactly where you should stay in Copenhagen. In addition, I can tell you that Copenhagen is a great travel destination that will keep you entertained for several days.
First, below are the overall category winners:
Best cheap hostel for budget travelers: The Generator Copenhagen
The best party hostels in Copenhagen: Copenhagen Downtown Hostel and Generator Copenhagen
The best quiet hostel in Copenhagen: Woodah Boutique Hostel
Best luxury hostels in Copenhagen: Next House Copenhagen and Steel House Copenhagen
Why Copenhagen is a Backpacker’s Dream
The vibrant capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, is a dream destination for backpackers and budget travelers.
The city’s rich history, beautiful architecture, and bustling food scene make it the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Scandinavian culture.
Moreover, Copenhagen offers a wide variety of hostels catering to different tastes and budgets, ensuring that every traveler can find the perfect place to stay.
What to Expect from Hostels in Copenhagen
When it comes to hostels in Copenhagen, you can expect high-quality accommodations with various amenities. Most hostels provide free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, laundry facilities, and 24-hour reception services.
Additionally, Copenhagen hostels often organize social events and activities to help you meet fellow travelers and make new friends.
Which are the best hostels in Copenhagen?
Generator Copenhagen
Generator Copenhagen is a popular, stylish hostel located in the heart of the city center.
It is a very large hostel that offers a variety of accommodations, from shared dorms to private rooms, and features an on-site bar, a spacious lounge area, and a lively atmosphere.
Pros:
- Central location near major attractions
- Wide range of room options
- 24-hour reception
- The social atmosphere with events and activities
- Clean and modern facilities
Cons:
- Can be noisy due to the social atmosphere
- Some guests may find the rooms small
Next House Copenhagen
Next House Copenhagen is a luxury hostel offering a blend of contemporary design and vintage charm.
This cozy and luxurious hostel provides various room options, great amenities, a pool table, and beautiful settings.
Pros:
- Unique and stylish design
- Quiet and relaxed atmosphere
- Great communal areas
- Helpful and friendly staff
- High service
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Central location
Cons:
- Limited social activities compared to other hostels
- Higher prices
Steel House Copenhagen
Steel House Copenhagen is a modern, luxury, industrial-style hostel offering a wide range of amenities, including an indoor pool, gym, cinema, movie room, and a stylish bar. It provides various room options, including private rooms and dorms, catering to all types of travelers.
Pros:
- Modern and stylish design
- Extensive amenities, including a pool and gym
- Occasional karaoke and music events
- Central location
- Self-service kitchen
- Variety of room options
- Secure lockers and keycard access
Cons:
- Charges for some amenities, such as towel rental and luggage storage
- Less social compared to other places
Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER
Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER is a lively hostel with a modern design, spacious rooms, and an on-site bar.
The hostel is known for its social atmosphere, with a regular events calendar and a central location that makes exploring the city center’s attractions a breeze.
Pros:
- The social atmosphere with regular events
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Central location near attractions and public transport
- Billiard lounge
- Variety of room options, including private rooms and dorms
- Bike rental available
Cons:
- Can be noisy due to the lively atmosphere
- They charge for some amenities
Copenhagen Downtown Hostel
Copenhagen Downtown Hostel is a vibrant, social hostel, centrally located in the city center. As the best party hostel in Copenhagen, travelers have amazing bars and great activities within walking distance.
It offers a range of accommodations, from shared dorms to private rooms, and features an on-site bar and café, as well as regular events and activities. Enjoy live music at the in-house bar while enjoying a local craft beer.
Pros:
- Central location
- The social atmosphere with events and activities
- On-site bar and café
- Affordable prices
- 24-hour reception
Cons:
- Can be noisy, particularly in the common areas
- No communal kitchen for guest use
Woodah Boutique Hostel
Woodah Boutique Hostel is a cozy, eco-friendly hostel offering a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on sustainability.
The leading boutique hostel provides various room options, comfortable sleeping pods, and a cozy café and bar.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and sustainable ethos
- Quiet and relaxed atmosphere
- Central location near attractions and public transport
- Helpful and friendly staff
Cons:
- Limited social activities compared to other hostels
- No on-site restaurant
CityHub Copenhagen
CityHub Copenhagen is a unique, high-tech, and amazing hostel offering compact, private sleeping pods instead of traditional dorm rooms.
The hostel features a communal living area, a shared kitchen, full laundry facilities, and a digital concierge service to assist guests with local recommendations and bookings.
Pros:
- Innovative sleeping pod design for privacy
- The communal living area and shared kitchen
- Digital concierge service
- Central location
- Affordable prices
Cons:
- Sleeping pods may feel small for some guests
- Limited storage space in the sleeping pods
Choosing the Perfect Hostel for Your Stay
When selecting a hostel in Copenhagen, consider factors such as location, atmosphere, amenities, and budget.
Each of the hostels mentioned in this guide offers unique features and caters to different traveler preferences. Additionally, most of the hostels are within walking distance of central junction points such as the central train station, the former city hall square and city square hall itself, bike rental services, and downtown Copenhagen.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious hostel, a lively social atmosphere, stylish design, or eco-friendly accommodations, there’s a great hostel here in Copenhagen to suit your needs.
How to Stay Safe at a Hostel
Staying at a hostel is a fantastic way to save money and meet other fellow travelers while exploring a new city. This is what makes it unique compared to a hotel. However, it’s essential to prioritize your safety during your stay.
Here are some tips on how to stay safe and secure while enjoying your hostel experience:
- Choose a Reputable Hostel: Before booking, research the hostel’s reputation and read reviews from other travelers. Look for hostels with a high rating and positive feedback, particularly regarding safety and cleanliness.
- Use Lockers: Most hostels provide lockers to secure your belongings, so make sure to use them for your valuables such as passports, electronics, and cash. Bring luggage lockers with your own padlock or purchase one at the hostel’s reception for added security.
- Get Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is essential when embarking on any trip, as it can cover unforeseen expenses such as medical emergencies, lost or stolen belongings, and trip cancellations.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings while staying at a hostel. Familiarize yourself with the hostel’s layout, emergency exits, and the location of the nearest hospital or embassy.
- Socialize Responsibly: While hostels offer an excellent opportunity to meet new people and make friends, remember to socialize responsibly. Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink unattended.
- Follow Hostel Rules: Most hostels have rules and guidelines to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for all guests. Familiarize yourself with these rules and follow them accordingly. This includes respecting quiet hours, adhering to kitchen guidelines, and being mindful of shared spaces.
The Best Time to Visit Copenhagen
When planning a trip to Copenhagen, it’s essential to consider the time of year to ensure you make the most of your visit.
While the city is beautiful all year round, certain seasons offer unique experiences, better weather, and more affordable prices.
Spring (April to June)
Spring is an excellent time to visit Copenhagen, as the weather starts to warm up, and the city comes to life.
With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), you can enjoy comfortable outdoor exploration without the summer crowds.
Spring also brings the stunning cherry blossoms in Bispebjerg Cemetery and the Tivoli Gardens’ reopening, offering a magical atmosphere.
Pros
- Pleasant weather
- Fewer crowds than in summer
- Cherry blossoms and vibrant gardens
Cons
- Slightly cooler temperatures than summer
- Some attractions may have limited hours
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Copenhagen, with long days, warm temperatures, and an abundance of events and festivals.
The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), making it ideal for exploring the city’s picturesque streets, parks, and waterfront areas.
Keep in mind that this is also the busiest and most expensive time of year.
Pros
- Warmest weather
- Numerous events and festivals
- Long days with up to 17 hours of daylight
Cons
- Crowded tourist attractions
- Higher accommodation and flight prices
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Copenhagen is a beautiful time to visit, with colorful foliage and cooler temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
While the weather can be unpredictable, you can take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
This is also the perfect time to enjoy Copenhagen’s cozy cafés and world-class museums.
Pros
- Beautiful fall foliage
- Less crowded attractions
- Lower prices than summer
Cons
- Unpredictable weather
- Shorter daylight hours
Winter (December to March)
Winter in Copenhagen is cold and dark, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
However, if you’re willing to brave the chilly weather, you can experience the city’s magical Christmas markets, cozy hygge culture, and snow-covered streets.
Plus, you’ll find the most affordable accommodation and flight prices during this time.
Pros
- Magical Christmas markets
- Affordable prices for accommodation and flights
- Cozy hygge atmosphere
Cons
- Cold and dark weather
- Limited daylight hours (as few as 7 hours)
- Some attractions may be closed or have limited hours
Cool & Unique Events in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a lively city that hosts a variety of unique annual events, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
From cultural festivals to music events and celebrations of Danish heritage, there’s always something happening in this vibrant city.
Here are some of the most notable annual events that you can experience during your visit to Copenhagen:
Copenhagen Light Festival
Taking place in February, the Copenhagen Light Festival is an annual event that transforms the city into a mesmerizing world of light and color.
Various light installations, interactive art pieces, and light shows illuminate the city’s streets, buildings, and waterways, creating a magical atmosphere that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
Copenhagen Sakura Festival
Celebrating the beauty of cherry blossoms, the Copenhagen Sakura Festival takes place in April at Langelinie Park.
This two-day event showcases Japanese culture through traditional performances, martial arts demonstrations, workshops, and food stalls.
Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the stunning cherry blossoms in full bloom while experiencing a taste of Japanese culture in the heart of Copenhagen.
Distortion Festival
Held in early June, the Distortion Festival is a massive street party that takes over Copenhagen for five days, celebrating electronic music, art, and urban culture.
The festival features numerous music stages, art installations, and food vendors throughout the city’s neighborhoods, culminating in a massive closing party called Distortion Ø.
Copenhagen Jazz Festival
Copenhagen Jazz Festival is a 10-day event that takes place in July, featuring both international and local jazz artists.
The festival is held in various venues across the city, including parks, squares, and concert halls, offering a diverse array of jazz performances and genres to satisfy any music lover’s taste.
Copenhagen Pride
Copenhagen Pride, held in August, is a week-long celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, featuring numerous events such as concerts, workshops, and debates.
The highlight of the festival is the colorful Pride Parade, which sees thousands of participants and spectators fill the streets of Copenhagen in a vibrant display of unity and acceptance.
Culture Night
Taking place in October, Culture Night is a one-night event that opens the doors of museums, galleries, churches, and other cultural institutions across Copenhagen for free.
Visitors can enjoy special exhibitions, performances, workshops, and free guided walking tours, during this unique event that aims to make culture accessible to everyone.
Copenhagen Christmas Markets
Starting in late November and lasting through December, Copenhagen’s Christmas markets bring festive cheer to the city.
Numerous markets pop up in various locations, such as Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, and Højbro Plads, offering traditional Danish holiday treats, handmade crafts, and seasonal decorations.
The markets create a magical atmosphere, making it the perfect time to experience the city’s hygge vibes.
A Final Note on the Best Hostels In Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a vibrant and welcoming city, offering a variety of hostels to cater to different traveler preferences.
From the stylish and modern Generator Copenhagen to the cozy, eco-friendly Woodah Boutique Hostel, there’s something for everyone.
When selecting a hostel, consider factors such as location, atmosphere, and amenities to ensure you have the best possible experience in this beautiful capital city. If you are looking for a cheap hostel in Copenhagen, there are plenty of options for that too.
With this comprehensive guide to affordable hostels, you can confidently book your stay at one of the best hostels in Copenhagen and enjoy your trip to this amazing destination.
If you liked this article, make sure to read my 2-day Copenhagen itinerary for great activities in town.
As usual, feel free to reach out if you have any additions, questions, or comments down below.
//Josephine
The Best Hostels in Copenhagen FAQs:
The best hostels in Copenhagen include Generator Copenhagen, Next House Copenhagen, Steel House Copenhagen, Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER, Copenhagen Downtown Hostel, Woodah Boutique Hostel, and CityHub Copenhagen.
Solo travelers may prefer hostels with a social atmosphere, such as Copenhagen Downtown Hostel and Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER.
Hostel prices in Copenhagen vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and the time of year. On average, expect to pay between €20 for a cheap hostel and €50 per night for a luxury hostel for a dorm bed.
Copenhagen is generally a safe city, and most hostels prioritize guest safety and security. Look for hostels with 24-hour reception, lockers for valuables, and positive safety reviews.
Yes, many Copenhagen hostels offer private room options for solo travelers, couples, or those who prefer more privacy. Keep in mind that private rooms are usually more expensive than dorm rooms.
BEST TRAVEL RESOURCES
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT:
Not sure how to get the best and cheapest flights? Use Skyscanner for the best deals. The great tip is to be flexible with dates and destinations if you want the best deals.
Alternatively, get a membership with Wayaway and receive a cashback on cheap flights and hotels every time you book! Via the link, you even get a 10% discount on your membership.
BOOK GREAT ACCOMMODATION:
Booking great accommodation is not difficult, but it sucks overpaying. Use Booking.com for the greatest hotel deals and Hostelworld for amazing hostel stays. Also, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.
BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Traveling without insurance is a mistake that you shouldn't make - trust me, I’ve done it. I suggest SafetyWing since they offer great and flexible policies - especially for long-term traveling or for digital nomads. World Nomads is the best insurance with extensive coverage.
NEED HELP WITH YOUR VISA?
Figuring out how and when you need a visa can be a bit of a jungle. iVisa is a very handy and user-friendly service.
HAS YOUR EU FLIGHT BEEN DISRUPTED?
Use AirHelp as a service to get flight compensation on your European flights in case your flight was delayed, canceled, or disrupted in other ways. Often you are actually entitled to compensation!
DO YOU NEED A LOCAL SIMCARD FOR YOUR TRIP?
Airalo has affordable rates for local eSIM solutions in more than 200 different destinations. Stay easily connected on your trip!