Copenhagen is like your favourite cousin that you hope is going to show up at the family parties. They’re fun, carefree, got a sense of humour, while still maintaining a cool composure.
This city has drawn me back many times now. Every time I step foot on the grey, and seemingly mediocre streets, I am quickly reminded why I fell in love with this place. With a quick look behind closed doors, you can see a cheeky side come to the forefront – and the Danish people are cool as F.
You’ll discover an incredible culinary scene, stunning architecture, important history, and diverse culture. There’s an old amusement park, live music venues, and, if you know where to look, a mini town within the city that’s not even part of Europe.
But hey, it’s no secret that the Danish capital is DAMN expensive. Knowing exactly where to stay in Copenhagen really helps save some bucks and enjoy your visit much more.
That’s where I come in. Here are my top picks and best-kept secrets, so you can find the best area to stay in Copenhagen for your kinda trip.
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Photo: @Lauramcblonde
Want to be in Copenhagen city centre in a fancy hotel, or how about a budget hotel in one of the coolest Copenhagen neighbourhoods? I’ve got you covered!
These are the top picks for places to stay in Copenhagen:
1st Class Central Flat | Best Airbnb in Copenhagen
This recently renovated flat is the perfect base for exploring Copenhagen and sleeps up to six guests. It’s situated in Indre By, close to the city’s top attractions and a short walk from bars, restaurants and Copenhagen central station.
Sleep in Heaven | Best Hostel in Copenhagen
Consistently ranked as one of the best hostels in Copenhagen, Sleep in Heaven is one of the best places to come and have fun in the laid-back communal areas. There’s a sick bar and pool table as well as a little guest kitchen to use. The staff are also amazing!
Steel House Copenhagen | Best Hotel in Copenhagen
Steel House Copenhagen is a stylish and rustic boutique hotel at the heart of the city. It’s close to Tivoli Gardens, City Hall Square, Central Station and Copenhagen’s top attractions. Onsite, you’ll find a bar, swimming pool, coffee shop, and a communal kitchen.
Indre By
Indre By is the historic centre of Copenhagen. The Danish capital’s “Inner City,” Indre By is home to a maze of cobblestone streets, charming squares and wonderful museums, making it one of the best places to stay in Copenhagen.
Nørrebro
North of the city centre is the lively and vibrant district of Nørrebro. A neighbourhood that is bursting with life, flavour, and fun, Nørrebro attracts a diverse and multicultural crowd to enjoy its great restaurants, cosy cafes, and independent shops and boutiques.
Vesterbro
In a city full of cool, Vesterbro is a neighbourhood that stands above the rest. Located west of the Inner City, Vesterbro is where you’ll find a wide variety of trendy restaurants, hip music venues, and electric underground clubs.
Christianshavn
Christianshavn is one of the most beautiful and romantic neighbourhoods in Copenhagen. Located across the water from Indre By, Christianshavn stretches across several islands and is characterized by the canals and waterways that carve throughout it.
Østerbro
Østerbro is a charming neighbourhood north of Indre By and the best area to stay in Copenhagen. Often referred to as the “Suburbs of the City,” this cosy district is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Copenhagen.
The capital and largest city in Denmark, Copenhagen is a massive metropolis with a small-town charm. It’s where history, myth, and modernity merge to create one of the coolest places to visit in Europe.
Copenhagen is famous for its colourful buildings, innovative cuisine, and buzzing nightlife. It has a reputation as one of the safest and friendliest cities in Europe and is popular with travellers of all ages. There are plenty of epic things to do in Copenhagen, but you’ve got to find somewhere to stay first!
But where do you pick to stay out of the many Copenhagen neighborhoods?
At the heart of the capital city is Indre By. Copenhagen’s “Inner City,” this neighborhood is home to a number of famous landmarks and attractions. There’s so much to explore here making it the best place to stay in Copenhagen if you’re visiting for the first time. It’s also ideal for further travel by train through Europe being so close to Copenhagen Central Station.
Across the water is the ultra-hip and trendy neighborhood of Christianshavn. Once Copenhagen’s working-class district, Christianshavn has become one of the city’s trendiest areas. Here, you’ll find dramatic architecture, cool cafes, quirky shops, and cool bars.
Northeast of Indre By is Østerbro. This cosy neighborhood is characterised by its beautiful streets and verdant parks. It’s home to the Little Mermaid Statue among other top attractions making it ideal for families.
Travel west and you’ll pass through Nørrebro and Vesterbro. Some of the most vibrant and popular neighborhoods in the city, this is where you’ll find a great variety of bars, pubs, clubs, and cafes. If you’re visiting Copenhagen on a budget, you’ll find cheaper accommodation here too.
Thankfully being a pretty small city, it takes only 15 minutes to get from the Copenhagen International Airport to the city centre on the metro, which is ideal for budget travellers worried about taxi fares.
Still not sure where to stay in Copenhagen? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Copenhagen
Below, we’ve broken down the five best neighborhoods to stay in when you visit Copenhagen. Each neighborhood is unique, so be sure to check out which is the best fit for you!
1. Indre By – Where to Stay in Copenhagen for First-Time Visitors
Indre By is the historic centre of Copenhagen and the best place to stay in Copenhagen for first-timers. The Danish capital’s “Inner City,” Indre By is home to a maze of cobblestone streets, charming squares and wonderful museums.
Copenhagen’s most famous port, Nyhavn, is also located in this part of town. If you come here, make sure to visit iconic Nyhavn’s colourful houses, bustling streets, and enjoy traditional Danish cuisine. This area of the city is also home to both Royal residences, Amalienborg Castle and Christiansborg Palace.
However, If you’re looking to find cheap hotels this super central location is going to push your budget quite a bit!
1st Class Flat in Central Location | Best Airbnb in Indre By
This newly renovated apartment is decorated in contemporary Scandinavian style. Up to six guests can stay here, but it’s also popular for couples visiting Copenhagen. It’s ideally located for exploring the city, situated in central Indre By with easy access to top sights, restaurants, and bars.
Copenhagen Downtown Hostel | Best Hostel in Indre By
The award-winning Downtown Hostel is the perfect base for your time in the city. Located in Indre From this hostel you can walk to Nyhavn, Strøget, Central Station and Tivoli Gardens. It has minimalist décor, comfortable dorm rooms, and is home to one of the cheapest bars in town! It’s ideal for budget travellers who still want to be right in the city centre.
Steel House Copenhagen | Best Hotel in Indre By
Steel House Copenhagen is stylish and rustic, and maybe even the best luxury hotel in town, situated within walking distance of Tivoli Gardens and City Hall Square in central Copenhagen. The hotel has an onsite swimming pool, and restaurant, and offers bike rentals to guests. Family rooms are available here. It’s the budget hotel for sure.
Things to See and Do in Indre By:
- Dine on creative and delicious Copenhagen cuisine on a food tour.
- Shop until you drop on Strøget, a lively pedestrian street home to everything from high-end designers to high street fashions.
- Sip classic cocktails and drinks with a twist at Ruby.
- Explore the country’s rich history at the National Museum of Denmark.
- Visit Rosenborg Castle and Christiansborg Palace.
- Check out the hustle and bustle at colourful Nyhavn.
- Snack your way through Torvehallerne, a buzzing food hall.
- Enjoy urbane cocktails at Curfew.
- Tease your taste buds at Marv & Ben, an inventive restaurant.
- Choose from craft beers from around the world at Taphouse.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Nørrebro – Where to Stay in Copenhagen on a Budget
A vibrant neighborhood north of the centre, Nørrebro attracts a diverse and multicultural crowd. It’s one of the hippest areas of the city and hosts a number of Copenhagen’s cheaper accommodation options. If you’re travelling on a budget in Copenhagen, this is the place for you.
In Nørrebro, you can also enjoy great restaurants, cosy cafes, and independent boutiques. It’s easy to walk to the city centre from here, so you can save yourself money on public transport.
Home Away From Home | Best Airbnb in Nørrebro
One of the best Airbnbs in Copenhagen for two guests, this room is ideal for couples or solo travellers looking to get to know this amazing city. You’ll stay with a fantastic host who makes you feel right at home! It’s surrounded by bars, nightlife and attractions, with a bus station right outside – connecting you to Nørreport train station and beyond.
Sleep in Heaven | Best Hostel in Nørrebro
Consistently ranked as one of the best hostels in Copenhagen, Sleep in Heaven is one of the best places to come and have fun in the laid-back communal areas. There’s a sick bar and pool table as well as a little guest kitchen to use. The staff are also amazing!
Hotel Nora Copenhagen | Best Hotel in Nørrebro
This excellent Nørrebro hotel is located at the heart of the district, close to shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. It is one of the best hotels in the area for a weekend in Copenhagen. There’s a swimming pool on-site, and each room is outfitted with a TV and coffee/tea facilities making.
Things to See and Do in Nørrebro:
- Go shopping on trendy on Nørrebrogade.
- Try seriously inventive flavour combinations at Sliders.
- Dine on delicious dishes at Groed.
- Sink your teeth into an amazing burger at Grillen Norrebro.
- Drink Aquavit and dance all night long at Rastlos, the world’s first Aquavit bar.
- Sip delicious drinks at The Barking Dog.
- Check out the vintage shops on Ravnsborggade.
- Hear great music from up-and-coming bands at Rust.
- Enjoy two-for-one cocktails at charming and cosy Kassen.
3. Vesterbro – Where to Stay in Copenhagen for Nightlife
In a city full of cool, Vesterbro is a neighborhood that stands above the rest. Located west of Inner City, this is where you’ll find a wide variety of trendy restaurants, hip music venues, and electric underground clubs. Even if you don’t stay in the area, a trip to Vesterbro should definitely feature on your Copenhagen itinerary!
It’s worth mentioning that Vesterbro is home to Copenhagen’s historic Red Light District, and a certain amount of prostitution and drug trades do still occur here. However, much of this area has been revitalized and revamped, and it’s perfectly safe to explore day or night.
Central Copenhagen Design Flat | Best Airbnb in Vesterbro
Although it’s close to all the main sights, like Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, this Denmark Airbnb is in a surprisingly peaceful area. You’ll get around even faster on the bikes that they offer for free! Up to 3 guests can stay comfortably, enjoying a simple but bright design.
Woodah Hostel | Best Hostel in Vesterbro
Woodah is a unique hostel in Copenhagen. Placing an emphasis on yoga and sustainable living, this hostel supports local, organic and fair-trade producers.
They offer affordable accommodations in a healthy and clean environment and provide a delicious organic breakfast. Bikes can also be rented on-site, so you can avoid using public transport.
Hotel Ottilia by Brøchner Hotels | Best Hotel in Vesterbro
This boutique hotel offers more than just a place to lay your head for the night and features many shared lounges, bars, and restaurants. Guests also have access to the onsite spa and wellness features, as well as a fitness centre, it’s one of the best hotels for facilities in the city. The hotel is within walking distance of numerous attractions, including Frederiksberg Have and the National Museum of Denmark.
Things to See and Do in Vesterbro:
- Spend a day at Tivoli Gardens, a world-renowned amusement park.
- Choose from a wide selection of beers at the atmospheric Mikkeller Bar.
- Sip high-quality cocktails at Lidkoeb.
- Listen to great music and enjoy amazing cocktails at the stimulating and fun NOHO Bar.
- Enjoy posh drinks at the cozy Library Bar.
- Tease your taste buds at Mad & Kaffee.
- See great bands, world-class DJs, and engaging light shows at exciting VEGA – House of Music.
- Excite your senses at Pony where you can try Nordic food with an experimental twist.
- Go on a beer-tasting adventure at WarPigs.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Christianshavn – Coolest Place to Stay in Copenhagen
Christianshavn is one of the most beautiful and romantic neighborhoods in Copenhagen. Located across the water from Indre By, Christianshavn stretches across several islands and is characterized by the canals and waterways that carve throughout it.
Once a working-class neighborhood, Christianshavn is now one of the trendiest and coolest areas in the city. Home to stunning architecture and exquisite boutiques, this is where you’ll find some of Copenhagen’s most innovative and revered restaurants.
Christianshavn is also home to Freetown Christiania. This self-governing district is unique and un-gentrified, and is one of the coolest places in Scandinavia!
Sleek, Chic Flat | Best Airbnb in Christianshavn
Forget trendy hotels: breaking out of the boring is this stunning apartment, designed in true, super cool Christianshavn style. You’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep in one of my favourite areas of the world. It’s perfect for couples staying in Copenhagen with a comfy bed and that Netflix and chill set-up. 😉
Danhostel Copenhagen City | Best Hostel in Christianshavn
Danhostel offers five-star accommodations at the heart of the city. It is a short walk from Copenhagen central station and is surrounded by bars, clubs and restaurants.
Boasting more than 1,000 beds, this is the largest hostel in Europe. It has free wifi, common rooms, and an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet.
Hotel CPH Living | Best Hotel in Christianshavn
The recently refurbished Hotel CPH Living offers unique accommodations in the city centre of Copenhagen. Set on a modern boat, this hotel has 12 rooms each outfitted with private bathrooms and comfortable beds. Guests can enjoy an outdoor terrace, sun deck, and incredible views of Copenhagen.
Things to See and Do in Christianshavn:
- See the Church of Our Saviour. If you’re feeling brave enough, climb to the top of the spire and take in the incredible views of the city.
- Dine at world-renowned Noma, a two Michelin-starred restaurant that uses foraged and found ingredients to create their refined Nordic dishes.
- Take a romantic boat ride through the canals of Copenhagen.
- Try creative and delicious dishes at Goomi.
- Sip a glass of wine at Eiffel Bar.
- Sample a variety of cheeses and meats at Den Vandrette, a delightful wine bar.
- Explore the free and self-governing Freetown of Christiania.
5. Østerbro – Best Place to Stay in Copenhagen for Families
Often referred to as the “Suburbs of the City,” this cosy district is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Copenhagen. It’s got a perfect blend of lush parks and attractions, making it our top pick for families.
This area is also a haven for shoppers. Østerbro’s main street is lined with independent boutiques, and there are plenty of places to drink and dine dotted around.
Bohemian Family Home | Best Airbnb in Østerbro
Sleeping five guests across two bedrooms, this Airbnb is cute and colourful, and very inviting for families in Copenhagen. If you’ve never heard of the Danish hygge before, you’re about to be filled with love and peace! There’s a full kitchen for creating home-cooked meals and attractive parks close by to burn off some energy.
Hotel Rye | Best Hotel in Østerbro
Hotel Rye is a quaint and charming hotel in Copenhagen. Located in the Østerbro neighborhood, it is close to Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, and a number of great restaurants. Rooms are bright and clean and provide all the basics for a comfortable stay.
Charlottehaven | Best Aparthotel in Østerbro
This stylish aparthotel provides luxurious accommodation to families and groups. Apartments are fully serviced and equipped with private kitchens, laundry facilities, and balconies. There’s an onsite cafe providing meals throughout the day, as well as a swimming pool and fitness centre. If you’re looking for a reasonably priced luxury hotel, check this place out.
Things to See and Do in Østerbro:
- See the famous Little Mermaid statue.
- Explore the Kastellet, a well-preserved star-shaped citadel.
- Take a stroll through beautiful Faelledparken.
- Make your own ceramic souvenirs at Creative Space.
- Try new and delicious Danish foods at Restaurant Under Uret.
- Dine on simple yet amazing dishes at family-friendly Hey Darling.
- Sink your teeth into a savoury burger at Halifax Osterbro.
- Let the food at Souls tickle your taste buds with its fresh and incredible flavours.
- Enjoy yummy eggs and a brunch buffet at Charlottehaven.
- Wander along the Langelinie, a charming quayside pier.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Copenhagen
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Copenhagen and where to stay.
What To Pack For Copenhagen
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is undoubtedly one of my favourite cities in Europe. I’m that person whose ears prick up when people mention it and I’ll jump in to recommend it at the drop of a hat.
It has a vibrant nightlife scene, world-renowned restaurants (if it’s in your budget), iconic architecture, and a friendly bunch of people. It’s no wonder it’s the happiest city in the world! Whether you’re a night owl, foodie, culture vulture, or somewhere in between, there’s something for travellers of all ages in the Danish capital.
However, Copenhagen can be very expensive – if you don’t plan ahead! I really recommend booking early to score a sweet deal. I hope this guide helps you find somewhere to stay that suits you.
If you’re still unsure where to stay in Copenhagen, I recommend the Indre By neighborhood. It’s got a little bit of everything and is where you’ll find top accommodation like the Steel House Copenhagen.
If you’re watching your spending, Sleep in Heaven is the best budget-friendly pick in the city.
Do you have a favourite place to stay in Copenhagen that didn’t make the list? Let us know in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Copenhagen.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Copenhagen.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Copenhagen instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Copenhagen to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Copenhagen is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
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Great suggestions! Nyhavn’s charm and central location sound perfect for exploring Copenhagen. Frederiksberg’s upscale vibe and proximity to attractions make it a top choice. Vesterbro’s artsy scene seems like a must-visit, and Christianshavn’s canals and alternative vibe are intriguing. Thanks for the insights!