COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Copenhagen is a cool, creative and dynamic city; and one that is very easy to enjoy. For design enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs especially, it's one of the most exciting places to visit. Contemporary Danish aesthetics, design-forward interiors, innovative dining and a contagious energy that is both lively yet laidback - Copenhagen hygge is real.
TO STAY
This luxury boutique hotel is one of Copenhagen's very best. With modern mid-century Danish interiors, relaxed but well-catered service and a cosy atmosphere, Sanders is a perfect experience of hygge in the heart of the city. It's always buzzing yet intimate; where guests feel at home in the Living Room, dine all-day at the Kitchen, enjoy a pleasant afternoon out in the Courtyard or up on the Rooftop Conservatory, or go for a drink at the TATA cocktail bar. Tucked away on a quiet street in a busy area, the hotel enjoys tranquil seclusion just steps away from the centre; around the corner from the central Kongens Nytorv plaza, down the street from the iconic Nyhavns waterfront, and within walking distance to everything else. Perfectly comfortable and convenient.
A hip boutique hotel from the 25Hours group; with signature retro-contemporary style, colourful interiors and a youthful atmosphere, it's a fun place to stay in an ideal location. They have two addresses in Copenhagen: Indre By is central, and Paperøen is slightly more secluded on the Holmen island but still within walking distance to Nyhavn. Their hospitality approach is more laidback and laissez-faire, which means you might have to specifically request some services, but it is still a five-star hotel. And if you enjoy a more vibrant and quirky vibe, this is a great choice.
FOOD & DINING
BREAKFAST & BRUNCH
One of the most iconic spots in the city, Atelier September is a defining institution of the Copenhagen café aesthetic & breakfast culture (headed by Frederik Bille Brahe). Just their mountain of soft whipped butter is pretty recognisable. Serving an all-day breakfast menu of Danish staples like morning plates (cheese, bread, butter), boiled or scrambled eggs, avocado toasts and yoghurt bowls, their signature blueberry pancakes as well as a selection of seasonal dishes. It's a typical and enjoyable first-experience of the CPH breakfast aesthetic. They have 3 locations across the city but the most central one is Konprinsessegade.
Tucked away in Charlottenberg Slot just off of Nyhavn, Apollo Bar is another beloved spot by Frederike Bille Brahe. There's a small and cosy space indoors, but the courtyard seating is really the main attraction when the weather is right. Open mornings to evenings, serving typical breakfast, small snacks in the afternoon (like their famous whipped butter and housemade sourdough), as well as proper lunch and dinner menus. Their signature whipped ricotta & blueberry toast is essential. Perfect for an atmospheric break near Nyhavn.
From the same team behind Atelier September and Apollo, Kafeteria SMK is famous for some of the best buttermilk pancakes in the city. They also serve a typical morning plate for breakfast, daily pastries and cakes, as well as simple lunch specials. Set inside the Statens Museum for Kunst (The National Art Gallery) for a delicious and convenient stop before or after your visit.
If you recognise Atelier September's famous French omelette, it's actually Mati Pichci's trademark creation (former chef at AS). This new all-day spot is where you can now try an original Mati omelette by the man himself. Located in the hip and trendy Østerbro.
The best way to describe breakfast at Lille Bakery is like sitting out in the garden on a warm summer morning. Located in Refshaleøen (the island of Refshalevej), this secluded gem of a bakery offers such a delightful breakfast experience in the simplest of ways. Set in an old industrial building with a small garden and open kitchen, floor-to-ceiling windows, rustic wood tables, mismatched china plates and vintage cutlery; it's cute and charming with a communal feel. Simple breakfast plates served all-day, fresh bread & pastries, and light lunch options of a salad, sandwich and quiche at noon. Good, honest food and a lovely atmosphere.
Just next door to the interior design atelier of Studio X, this all-day kitchen dishes out gourmet plates in a minimal Japandi space. The menu is a creative blend of typical Danish-style plates with Japanese influence, alongside specialty coffee, organic tea, and daily bakes. The two menu staples to go specifically for are their signature folded eggs with house-made focaccia & salad, and the seasonal greens & cheese sandwich on ciabatta bread from Juno. Located just off the famous Gothersgade street and a short walk from Kongens Nytorv plaza.
For a typical Danish breakfast in a modern Scandi space, Lille Petra is a design-forward café by &Tradition (a design house & studio). Go for the signature Honey Butter plate of mature cheese and sourdough bun served with whipped butter, honey and crushed pistachios. Cool café interiors and a sunny courtyard in the back when the weather is warm. Located in the centre, a short walk from Kongens Nytorv just off of Gothersgade.
A French-inspired neighbourhood bistro in Frederiksberg for modern dining in a laidback atmosphere. They serve a proper breakfast menu similar to an a la carte buffet, where you can order several items and build your own breakfast. Everything from bread & pastries, a variety of egg dishes, fruit & veggie bowls, a selection of cheese, meats & fish, as well as sweet treats like French toast and pancakes. Their lunch menu also works for a late breakfast or brunch. Perfect for a full spread. Located just next door to Hart for a quick bakery run as well.
Originally a sourdough bakery now reopened as a Sicilian eatery, Mirabelle is a decade-old power-name in Copenhagen's culinary scene and still a local favourite for breakfast/brunch. If you ever see 'Mirabelle Sourdough' on a restaurant menu, order it; it is one of the city's very best. Go for a traditional morning plate or the soft scrambled eggs; order an un-toasted slice of sourdough on the side and croissant from their bakery. Located in Nørrebro.
More spots for brunch plates & pastries: Format at Designmuseum, Apotek 57 at FRAMA Studio, Lille Fugle, Rug Bakery.
BAKERIES
Juno needs no introduction. This bakery mecca in Copenhagen is one of the places that put Denmark on the map as a culinary destination, and consistently listed as one of the best bakeries in the world. Founded by former NOMA chef Emil Glaser, with a similar modern & minimalist approach. Most famous for their Cardamom Bun, but everything else is just as essential to try (especially the almond croissant). Get one of everything. Juno has one exclusive location in Østerbro, which means a queue forms quickly and some things sell out before noon; go as early as possible to avoid both. More of a grab-and-go situation but they do have a few tables outside.
The second biggest bakery giant of Copenhagen, Hart's local-turned-global reputation speaks for itself. Everything they make is excellent, but what you want to specifically go for is their trademark Cardamom Croissant - twice baked squares of croissant dough tossed in cardamom sugar; soft and sticky inside, crisp and caramelised on the outside with a warm spice. Absolutely incredible and unmatched. Hart put this pastry creation on the map and inspired a global imitation of it, but nothing compares to theirs. They have multiple bakeries around the city; two of the bigger locations with seating are Holmen and Refshalevej.
This independent neighbourhood bakery is surprisingly very, very good - especially for laminated pastries. Second to Juno's, the croissant here is one of the best to try in the city (nicely browned and crisp, dense and chewy inside with a rich butteriness). If the cardamom or cinnamon rolls are on, these are just as essential. They also serve a typical morning plate and seasonal focaccia sandwiches for lunch. Located a little further from the centre in Amagerbro, but very much worth a visit.
The oldest bakery in Copenhagen, dating back to 1652. Skt Peders Bageri is a little historic landmark of its own and mostly famous for their signature Snegle (a typical cinnamon roll with a soft, bready texture and thick icing). Simple, old-school and traditional. Located in the centre, a short walk from the busy shopping street Strøget. Nothing extraordinary to go out of your way for, unless you're in the area and want to try this historic establishment.
More bakeries to try: Rondo, Il Buco, Københavns Bageri, Buka, Benji.
TRADITIONAL DINING
For a traditional Danish lunch experience, Schønnemann is quintessential. Dating back to 1877, it's one of the oldest dining establishments with a long-standing reputation for some of the best smørrebrød in the city (open-faced sandwiches). Set in a classic wood-panelled tavern adorned with old lamps and vintage pieces, the restaurant is charming and nostalgic with an old-world feel. The menu features over 100 different varieties, with a range of smoked/preserved/fried fish, shellfish, meat, pork and chicken, potatoes and seasonal specials; as well as a selection of tartlets and tartare. The classic Fried Fillet of Plaice with remoulade & dill deserves a mention; one of their best specialties and an essential to try. Schønnemann is popular among visitors and locals alike, and generally require reservations. Open daily for lunch with only two seating slots, so book ahead because they can fill out weeks in advance. Located in the centre near Rundetaarn.
Another Copenhagen classic for traditional Danish dining, Kronborg is intimate and inviting with an old-fashioned charm. Perfect for a long, leisurely meal where time seems to stand still. The menu is almost exclusively smørrebrød with a focus on herring & fish toppings, some meat and vegetarian options, as well as bigger plates like meatballs, roast pork, and steak tartare. The 'Skagen Toast' (shrimp salad on buttered brioche) is particularly excellent here. Order a glass of local Aquavit for the complete experience. Open daily for lunch and early dinner, book in advance. Just a short walk from Strøget.
For a traditional but more elegant Danish lunch, just steps from Nyhavn, Sankt Annæ is a classic establishment dating back to 1894. Not quite as famous as Schønnemann or Kronborg but equally excellent, it's a gem of a place to dine among locals. The menu offers a variety of smørrebrod as well as other traditional dishes, all served on Royal Danish china. The Peeled Shrimp Smørrebrod is especially popular, as is the Fried Fillet of Fish with Tartare. A delightful lunch experience all around.
For a more contemporary experience of Danish tradition, Aamanns serves traditional smørrebrod with a modern touch and a fine-dining elegance. The menu offers a nice variety of toppings with a focus on seasonal and organic ingredients; the Chicken Salad and Steak Tartare are two of their signature plates to try. They have two locations: Aamanns 1921 is the original restaurant near Strøget (serving exclusively smørrebrod), and Aamanns Replik next to the Royal Danish Playhouse on Sankt Annæ Plads (similar smørrebrod menu as well as main courses). For a more atmospheric meal and a wonderful floor-to-ceiling window view of the water, go to Replik.
CONTEMPORARY DINING
One of the hottest places to go for a taste of Copenhagen's contemporary culinary style. This raw and stripped-back restaurant in Vesterbrø specialises in market-fresh fish & seafood, minimally but creatively prepared with seasonal ingredients. The plates are all light, fresh and vibrant, and bursting with flavour. The menu changes often but there's always plenty of variety, from oyster platters and raw starters, to small dishes for sharing and larger mains. Order a few things to share from each section; and just to get things going, their house-made sourdough bread with seaweed butter is absolutely required. Complete with a hip and buzzing atmosphere, cool industrial surroundings, and outdoor seating in the summer, Kødbyens Fiskebar is as much a dining destination as it is a social hotspot.
For some of the best pizza in the city, Bæst is recognised as a master-artisan not only in Copenhagen but around Europe. Serving Italian comfort with Danish craftsmanship and a focus on high-quality, local ingredients - Bæst's menu is like a tasting of fresh produce on a pizza base. Everything is produced in-house in their micro-dairy and charcuterie kitchens, from daily hand-stretched mozzarella, buratta, ricotta and mascarpone, to cured meats and sausages, and fermented sourdough for that slightly tangy pizza crust. Don't just go for the pizza, go for a cheese & charcuterie tasting as well for a full experience of Bæst's craftsmanship. Located in Nørrebro just next door to Mirabelle. Open for lunch and dinner, reservations required.
Elegant interiors, Ginori chinaware, and refined French-inspired cuisine; complete with a stylish crowd and a lively social ambiance, Esmée is as much for the food as it is for the atmosphere. The menu is also easy to please; with a variety of small bites, raw starters and fresh salads, grilled fish, steak cuts, and larger plates to share. Perfect for a nice lunch or a fun night out, just across the street from Kongens Nytorv plaza and a short walk from Nyhavn.
For a contemporary take on French cuisine in a light-filled bistro setting, Ripotot is one of Copenhagen's new exciting restaurants. With a focus on highlighting market-fresh produce and seasonal ingredients, Ripotot's dishes are simple yet thoughtful, vibrant, and very delicious. For dinner, they offer a 5-course menu or all 10 to share if you want to try everything. They also offer smørrebrod lunch Fridays & Saturdays.
Sanders serves a European-inspired menu of dishes that are simple, delicious and easy to please in three different settings. With all-day signature snacks like their Black Truffle Bikini Toast and Charcuterie Board, salads and pasta for lunch, and bigger plates like grilled fish or steak for dinner. Go for an al fresco lunch or snack on the Sanders Street Terrace, an atmospheric meal in the Courtyard, or a cosy dinner in the Kitchen. Within walking distance to Kongens Nytorv and Nyhavn.
FINE DINING
No introduction needed. This three Michelin-star restaurant by René Redzepi is one of the most renowned establishments in the world and one of the first reasons Denmark became a dining destination. NOMA has made undeniable waves in the culinary scene and continues to be a place of innovation and experimentation. Based on three distinct seasons, their 20 course menus are designed to reflect the taste & mood of each one: Vegetable Season throughout Spring-Summer, Game & Forest Season for Autumn, and Ocean Season for Winter. Set in a private and secluded location on the island of Refshalevej, designed to embrace and reflect its natural surroundings with natural wood interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the trees. NOMA is a world of its own where everything beyond its walls ceases to exist for three or four hours. It's beautiful, surprising, immersive. An unforgettable experience that goes much beyond the food. Reservations are tough to secure and sell out within minutes of release, but it's not impossible. They do have a two-week waiting list as well.
Originally founded on Bornholm, this two Michelin-star restaurant celebrates the island's nature and traditions with creative cooking and artful plating. Kadeau's cuisine reflects the seasons of Bornholm with two main concepts: Growing Season, which highlights fresh produce and ingredients grown in their own garden or foraged in the wild; and Preservation Season, which focuses on traditional & innovative techniques that preserve flavours of the spring-summer throughout winter. Set on the island of Christianshavn in a discreet, almost unidentifiable building (with nothing but a tiny doorbell and nameplate), Kadeau offers a long and leisurely escape from the city and an amazing dining experience.
Barr refers to itself as a casual restaurant but really it's an informal fine-dining establishment and one of Copenhagen's best. Located on the Strandgade waterfront in NOMA's original location, with minimal interiors, a cool & sleek atmosphere, and a creative menu of 'Northern Sea Cuisine'. The menu changes every now and then, but two of their signature staples include the Grilled Waffle served with roe, herbs and creme fraiche; and their most popular main course of Holstein Schnitzel (which is absolutely essential to order). They also serve a smørrebrod menu for lunch. Quality ingredients, cutting-edge cooking and creative plating; relaxed and laidback with all the qualities of a Michelin-star restaurant, Barr offers the best of both.
SMALL PLATES & GASTRO BARS
Copenhagen is big on small-plates restaurants and gastro-bars, where you can enjoy really excellent food in a more laidback, wine-bar setting. Some hip hotspots & local favourites include: Pompette, Villette, Bottega Barlie, Bar Vitrine, La Banchina.
PLACES TO VISIT
CULTURE
NYHAVN
The most iconic, postcard-perfect location of Copenhagen. Nyhavn is a central canal and waterfront lined with vintage boats and a charming backdrop of colourful buildings. Crowded with locals and visitors alike, it's always a lively and vibrant place to stroll through, enjoy a canal-side drink, or watch the sunset.
As the national art museum of Denmark, the SMK houses one of the biggest art collections in the country with masterpieces dating back to the 14th century. Permanent collections include masterpieces from the likes of Rubens, Degas and Matisse; as well as exciting temporary exhibitions. Just a short walk from Kongens Have.
A beautiful and idyllic botanical garden in the heart of the city. Set in a light-filled glasshouse with a vast garden-park & lake, it makes for a wonderful afternoon break when the sun is out. Located off the lively Gothersgade, with the SMK on one side and Torvehallerne Food Market on the other.
A 17th-century Renaissance castle & garden with ornate state halls, royal bedrooms, and historic antiquities including a museum of crown jewels. If you're interested in royal Danish history, this is one of the best preserved sights for it. Located between the SMK and Botanisk Have.
Primarily a historic art & sculpture museum with an impressive collection, the Glyptoteket is just as popular for its palatial architecture, beautiful garden courtyard and relaxing atmosphere. Located just across the Tivoli Gardens near Vesterbrø.
A short walk from the Glyptoteket, Christiansborg Palace is a government building that houses the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Ministry of State. A large part of the palace is open to visitors, where you'll see the Royal Reception Rooms, the Great Hall containing the queen's tapestries, the Throne Room, Library, and more. Some of the rooms are really gorgeous and the visit shouldn't take more than an hour.
Built in the 17th century as an astronomical observatory, Rundetaarn is an architectural treasure and one of the city's iconic buildings. The spiral climb goes up to the observation desk for a panoramic view of the city. goes up to the top now visited for a panoramic view of the city. Its spiral ramp is also recognised by many design-enthusiasts for its "minimal" style. Located on Købmagergade, a main shopping & pedestrian street in the centre, it's worth a quick visit in the area.
The biggest library in the Nordic region as well as a prominent architectural landmark in Copenhagen. Set on the waterfront in a massive black granite building known as 'The Black Diamond', the Royal Danish Library is a must-see for architecture & design enthusiasts. The interior is just as impressive with its clear-cut lines and irregular angles. Make sure to go to the top floor for a bird's eye view. Located just across Christianshavn.
ART & DESIGN
For a look at Danish design and craftsmanship, the Designmuseum houses a large archive of original objects from over a century ago to the present day. With collections of ceramics, glass and porcelain, silverware, fashion & textile, as well as industrial designs, interior accessories and furniture. Go specifically for the 'Danish Modern' exhibition, which focuses on 20th-century Danish modernism and some of the iconic objects that shaped the contemporary design world - featuring original designs from Arne Jacobson, Jensen, and Kaare Klint. An amazing archive of Danish design and its global influence.
For contemporary art, installations and immersive experiences, CC is a playful art centre on Refshalevej. Check out their latest exhibitions and installations if there's something of interest. Just a short walk from Hart, Lille Bakery, and the Reffen Street Food Market.
LOUISIANA MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
For modern art & architecture enthusiasts, the Louisiana Museum is an essential visit. Set in a 1950s Danish modernist building that blends into its green surroundings, it's as much an architectural landmark as it is an art gallery; and really it's the museum's unique landscape structure and design that's worth going for. Located north of Copenhagen, around 40 minutes by train from the Central Station to Humlebæk.
For a round-up of fine arts, groundbreaking architecture, and Danish design legacy all in one place. Featuring major collections of French and Danish art from the 19th to 20th centuries, architectural extensions by Zaha Hadid and Snøhetta, a large park, as well as Finn Juuhl's very own house next door (one of the most prominent mid-century architects & interior designers); Ordrupgaard offers plenty to see. Located north of Copenhagen, around a 20-minute drive from the centre.
THINGS TO DO
An amusement park in central Copenhagen with exotic architecture and historic buildings, vintage-style rollercoasters, and gorgeous garden scenery. Tivoli is both entertaining and atmospheric with plenty to enjoy. Go for a scenic afternoon stroll or later in the evening for the enchanting lights. Located just across the Glyptotek.
A gourmet market-hall for fresh produce and artisanal foods, with plenty of dining stalls and coffee spots to enjoy as well. Torvehallerne is a buzzing and vibrant place of gathering, open daily from morning to late afternoons. Nice for a local market experience and sampling different Danish specialties. Located near Nørreport Station, and just a short walk from Gothersgade and Botanisk Have.
HOLMEN & REFSHALEØEN
Set across inner Copenhagen on Christianshavn island, Holmen and Reshaleøen are water-bound neighbourhoods that grew into two of the most vibrant hubs in the city. Studded with bakeries, boutique shops and renowned restaurants, there's plenty to do in the area. Both almost entirely pedestrian and easy to explore on foot or bike. Starting at Holmen: go for breakfast at Hart, a visit to the Opera House and Ferm Living's flagship store, lunch at Barr or NOMA's burger spot Popl, and cross back over the bridge to Nyhavn.
Stretching out from Holmen, Reshaleøen is also studded with some of the city's best food spots. Including Lille Bakery and another Hart location, the Reffen Street Food Market, summer hotspot La Banchina, and the Michelin-star Alchemist; as well as Copenhagen Contemporary for immersive installations & exhibitions.
CANAL CULTURE
Copenhagen is lined with scenic canals and waterfronts, and in the summer they become some of the most popular gathering spots to drink, socialise and lounge around in the sun. This is such an enjoyable part of the city's social scene. To experience the lively atmosphere among locals, go to Nyhavn, Holmen, or the waterside terrace by the Royal Playhouse. La Banchina is another summer hotspot for swimming and dining on the water.
SHOPPING
STRØGET
This is Copenhagen's main shopping area and one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. Lined with high-street brands, luxury designers, as well as independent boutiques. Illum and Magasin Du Nord are also located on Strøget, two of the largest department stores in the city. Strøget runs right down the middle of everything, stretching from Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv down to Tivoli Gardens and Glyptotek.
GOTHERSGADE & GAMMEL MØNT
On the other side of Strøget, Gothersgade and Gammel Mønt are more 'boutique' shopping areas for Danish designers and independent brands. Some cool brands to look for include: Another Aspect, Lié, Skall Studio, Storm, WoodWood, Henrik Vibskov Boutique, and Stine Goya. Also in the area is the &Tradition design showroom & café and the hip New Mags bookstore. Very hip and busy area to explore Danish fashion & design.
HOME & DESIGN
Copenhagen is home to some of the best interior design brands and these are local essentials to explore:
1. Tekla for textiles & bed linen (near Gammel Mønt)
2. Louise Roe for furniture & design (near Gammel Mønt)
3. HAY House for furniture, homeware & accessories (Strøget)
4. Ferm Living for furniture, homeware & accessories (Holmen)
5. FRAMA for home products & fragrances (Frederiksgade)
6. Audo for furniture & accessories (Arhusgade)
TRAVELING TIPS
1. Visit during Spring or Summer seasons. Copenhagen is well-adapted to the cold, but the city truly comes alive in the sun and it is an entirely different experience. It's also a highly walkable and pedestrian city, which really calls for warm/dry weather. For first-time visits especially, this is an important factor to consider.
2. Stay in the Indre By district, which is 'Inner' or central Copenhagen; especially near Kongens Have. An ideal and convenient location within walking distance to almost everything of interest, as well as other major neighbourhoods.
3. A majority of Copenhagen is set across different islets, but they're all inter-connected and within reach on foot. As any other city, it's also divided into some very unique neighbourhoods (like Nørrebro, Frederiksstaden, and Holmen). With that said, plan your day by area. Copenhagen is very walkable but not tiny.
4. Enjoy the breakfast & brunch culture of Copenhagen. Slow mornings, lazy afternoons, real hygge. Their café culture & aesthetic is one of the most remarkable things there.