Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is known for its rich history, picturesque canals, and vibrant culture. Like any city, it has different neighborhoods that match different trips and kinds of travelers. In addition, it offers a plethora of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.
In this guide, we’ll explore where to stay in Copenhagen, focusing on the best areas and accommodation options depending on your needs.
Since I have lived in this city for more than ten years, I know the city in and out and know exactly where you should stay.
Let’s get into it!
Where Are the Best Places to Stay in Copenhagen?
Where to Stay in Copenhagen for First-Time Visitors: The City Center
Indre By: Also known as the Inner City, this is the historical heart of Copenhagen. This district is home to iconic landmarks and historic buildings such as Amalienborg Palace, Nyhavn, The Round Tower, and much more.
Staying in this area is ideal for first-time visitors looking to explore the inner city, the best museums, and the city center’s main tourist attractions on foot. This is also ideal if you only have a couple of days in Copenhagen to explore, and need to be efficient.
Also, the city center is well-connected to any part of the city. Staying here allows you to see a lot and not spend too much time transporting yourself around.
Best Accommodation Options in the City Center
Copenhagen Downtown Hostel: This is the best hostel in the city center of Copenhagen that is ideal for social travelers or anyone on a budget. This hostel offers a lively atmosphere and various room options, including dorms and private rooms. With its vibrant common areas, this hostel is a popular choice among young and budget travelers. In addition, this hostel offers private bathrooms and an on-site restaurant.
CitizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen: This is a modern, design-focused hotel located near City Hall Square. With its innovative room designs and tech-savvy amenities, this hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a stylish and convenient stay.
Hotel d’Angleterre: This is an iconic luxury hotel located in the heart of Copenhagen. With its elegant rooms, Michelin-starred restaurant, and impeccable service, this hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a lavish experience.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen For Families: Østerbro
Østerbro: This is a charming, upscale neighborhood known for its beautiful parks, elegant architecture, and family-friendly atmosphere.
This area is ideal for travelers seeking a quieter, more refined experience.
Østerbro is full of fresh air and you have the ocean close by to enjoy the view or even a swim. While you don’t find the most trendy restaurants or bars in this area, you are far away from stress or feeling enclosed. This makes it the perfect place to relax, go for walks, or enjoy the ocean views.
Head down to the Nordhavn area where you will find different options for restaurants and cafes.
Best Accommodation Options in Østerbro
Comwell Copenhagen Portside Dolce by Wyndham: The Comwell provides a comfortable stay including a great breakfast. Located away from traffic noise and stress it’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the waterfronts around.
Rye115 Hotel: Located in a cute and charming street close to the lakes of Copenhagen. Rye115 Hotel offers a comfortable stay and is within walking distance of many other locations.
The Audo: This trendy design hotel includes a little extra luxury and an excellent breakfast. Located in Nordhavn, it’s a great place to stay to enjoy the Østerbo area to the fullest.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen for Foodie Travelers: Nørrebro
Nørrebro: a lively district in Copenhagen, also a paradise for food enthusiasts. This vibrant area boasts an eclectic mix of street food options offering delicious bites, perfect for on-the-go eating.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, the numerous bars and great cafes provide cozy spots to unwind and enjoy a variety of flavors.
For dining, Nørrebro caters to all tastes and budgets, featuring a range of restaurants from upscale gourmet to affordable local eateries. Whether you’re craving a fancy dinner or a simple, hearty meal, Nørrebro’s culinary scene has something to satisfy every palate.
Best Accommodation Options in Nørrebro
Globalhagen Hostel: A cozy and social hostel located in a charming Nørrebro street. This is a great place to meet other young travelers and enjoy an evening in Nørrebro.
A&O Copenhagen Nørrebro: A budget hotel located in the diverse Nørrebro district. Offering both private and shared rooms, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable stay at an affordable price.
Hotel Nora Copenhagen: This hotel is located on the main street of Nørrebro and puts you within walking distance of many great cafes, bars, and restaurants. Additionally, the lakes and the city center are also close by.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen for Hip Vibes: Vesterbro
Vesterbro: Once a working-class district, Vesterbro has transformed into a trendy area with fashionable boutiques live music venues, bars, and cafes.
This neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife scene. In terms of where to stay in Copenhagen, Vesterbro will have you well-connected and close to the central train station, Copenhagen International Airport, and central Copenhagen with its many highlights.
In addition, this part of the city has some of the best options for restaurants, bars, and nightlife!
Best Accommodation Options in Vesterbro
Urban House Copenhagen: A trendy hostel that offers both private rooms and dormitories. With its modern rooms with private bathrooms, onsite bar, lounge area, and communal kitchen, this modern hostel is perfect for socializing and meeting fellow travelers.
66 Guldsmeden: This is an eco-friendly boutique hotel with a unique, bohemian vibe. The modern hotel’s charming rooms and lush courtyard garden make it a popular choice among mid-range travelers.
Nimb Hotel: Located within the Tivoli Gardens, offers a unique, luxurious stay in a Moorish-style palace. With its spacious rooms, fine dining options, and exclusive access to private parking next to the amusement park, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.
Where To Stay in Copenhagen for Young People: Nørrebro
Nørrebro: Nørrebro is also the best area for young people visiting Copenhagen. It’s a multicultural district, where you’ll find a mix of hipster cafes, international restaurants, and vintage shops.
This area is perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, local experience. Also, this area has the most young people in town, including students and other visitors.
The Nørrebro area is full of accommodation options, cool cafes, great restaurants, and even better bars, often at a cheaper rate than other areas of the city.
Best Accommodation Options in Nørrebro
Globalhagen Hostel: A cozy and social hostel located in a charming Nørrebro street. This is a great place to meet other young travelers and enjoy an evening in Nørrebro.
A&O Copenhagen Nørrebro: A budget hotel located in the diverse Nørrebro district. Offering both private and shared rooms, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable stay at an affordable price.
Hotel Nora Copenhagen: This hotel is located on the main street of Nørrebro and puts you within walking distance of many great cafes, bars, and restaurants. Additionally, the lakes and the city center are also close by.
Where To Stay For a Unique Experience
Copenhagen offers a range of the best hotels for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience. Here are three of the best hotels for travelers seeking the most unique hotels in the city:
Central Hotel & Café
Central Hotel & Café is a charming, one-room hotel located above a small café in the Vesterbro district.
This tiny hotel offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere, with its vintage décor and personalized service.
Staying at Central Hotel & Café feels like a home away from home, making it a memorable experience for travelers who value exclusivity and charm.
Manon Les Suites
Manon Les Suites is a luxurious and eclectic boutique hotel in Copenhagen situated in the heart of the city.
With its tropical-inspired décor, stunning rooftop terrace, and indoor pool area reminiscent of a Balinese paradise, this hotel transports guests to an exotic oasis in the middle of the city.
The spacious suites and lavish amenities make Manon Les Suites an ideal choice for those seeking a truly unique and indulgent stay in Copenhagen.
CPH Living
Hotel CPH Living is a floating hotel located on the Copenhagen waterfront, offering guests an exceptional experience with stunning views of the city and harbor.
The 12-room hotel is housed on a converted barge and features a contemporary Scandinavian design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rooftop terrace.
Guests at CPH Living can enjoy the tranquility of life on the water while being just a short walk away from the city center’s main attractions.
How to Get to Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a well-connected city, its international airport making it easily accessible by air, ferry, or arriving by bus via the train station.
Here’s an overview of the various ways to reach the Danish capital:
By Air
Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also known as Kastrup Airport, is the main international gateway to the city. It is the largest airport in Scandinavia and serves as a hub for numerous airlines, offering direct flights from destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America. The airport is located just 8 kilometers (5 miles) southeast of the city center and is easily accessible by the main train station, metro, bus, and taxi.
By Train
Copenhagen is well connected to other European cities by train. International trains from destinations like Stockholm, Hamburg, and Berlin arrive at Copenhagen Central Station (Hovedbanegården), which is conveniently located in the heart of the city center. The Danish railway system, DSB, also offers extensive connections to cities and towns within Denmark.
By Bus
Long-distance buses, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, connect Copenhagen to various cities across Europe. Most buses arrive at Ingerslevsgade, near Copenhagen Central Station, making it convenient to transfer to local transportation or a short walk to nearby accommodations and boutique shops.
By Ferry
Copenhagen can also be reached by ferry from several destinations, particularly from Norway, Sweden, and Poland. Ferries operated by companies like DFDS Seaways and Scandlines dock at various terminals in the city center, including Nordhavn and Dampfærgevej. Furthermore, these ferry services offer an alternative and scenic way to arrive in Copenhagen, particularly for travelers traveling with their vehicles.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, Copenhagen’s excellent public transportation system and walkable city center make it easy to navigate and explore upon arrival.
Final Thoughts on Staying in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a vibrant and enchanting city that combines historical charm with modern innovation. From its picturesque harbor at Nyhavn and the magical Tivoli Gardens to the impressive royal palaces and bustling shopping streets, the Danish capital offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for travelers.
No matter your budget or preferences, Copenhagen has many options to make your stay enjoyable and memorable. So, explore the city center’s rich history, indulge in its diverse food scene, and immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of this beautiful city while staying at the perfect accommodation and area that suits your needs.
If you liked this article, be sure to read my guide on the best tours in Copenhagen for amazing experiences.
All the very best,
//Josephine
FAQs About Staying in Copenhagen
A good area to stay in Copenhagen depends on your preferences and interests. Indre By is ideal for first-time visitors and those who want to be close to major attractions. Vesterbro offers a hip and vibrant atmosphere, while Nørrebro is great for a more authentic, local experience. Østerbro is perfect for families and those seeking a quiet, upscale area, and Christianshavn is a charming district with picturesque canals.
To fully explore Copenhagen and its major attractions, a minimum of three to four days is recommended. This allows you to visit popular sights, such as the Little Mermaid statue, and Nyhavn, while also experiencing the city’s diverse neighborhoods and local culture. If you plan to take day trips to nearby destinations, such as Helsingør or Malmö, you may want to extend your stay to five or six days.
The best time to visit Copenhagen is from May to September when the weather is mild and the days are longer. However, these months also attract more tourists, so it’s essential to book accommodations in advance.
Copenhagen can be expensive compared to other European cities, but it offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. By researching and booking in advance, you can find some of the best budget hotel options.
If you’re visiting Copenhagen for the first time, it’s recommended to stay in Indre By, the city’s historic center. This area has many attractions within walking distance, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.
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:
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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.
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