Where to Stay in Copenhagen (the 7 Best Areas + Best Hotels)

Where to Stay in Copenhagen for YOU

You will find below the best area to stay in Copenhagen for you, depending on your travel style.

So, these are the best areas to stay in Copenhagen for each travel type. To get more details about these areas in Copenhagen and hotel recommendations, keep scrolling! 

Sitting on a high bench in front of the Kissing Chairs

The Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Copenhagen – Pros & Cons

When planning a trip to Copenhagen, it is key to plan your accommodation before departure to avoid unpleasant surprises, have a wider range of options, and enjoy lower prices.

To help you in this task, we’re going to explore thoroughly all the best locations to stay in Copenhagen with pros & cons so you can choose the right area and hotel that will best suit your needs, and those of your travel mates.

The Best Area to Stay in Copenhagen: Indre By

Indre By, also known as the Inner City, is the historical center and most central of all the Copenhagen areas. It is located on the east side of the city’s harbor, bordered by the lakes to the west and Kongens Nytorv Square to the east.

This is where you will find the main tourist attractions, including the Tivoli Gardens, the Round Tower, Rosenborg Castle, and Amalienborg. The authentic Nyhavn harbor and Strøget, the largest pedestrian street in Europe and the best shopping destination in Copenhagen, are also situated in this area.

Besides being particularly well served by all kinds of public transportation (boat included), this area is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore the area on foot only, perfect for tourists, especially for first-timers and short trips.

Indre By is also very lively at night, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Whether you are looking for a night out or a more relaxed evening at a cozy bar, you will find something to do in the evening.

Where to Stay in Indre By

As the most tourist area in Copenhagen, Indre By has plenty of accommodation to offer. But as I warned you right above, finding real cheap accommodation in this district is a bit complicated.

✅ Best Hotel: Motel One Copenhagen

This hotel is definitely the best if you want to experience typical Danish design and coziness. It is located a few steps from the City Hall inside a lush green garden to offer you serenity from the downtown hustle and bustle.

✨ Luxury Choice: Copenhagen Admiral HotelOpens in new window

Located on the waterfront close to Amalienborg, this 5-star hotel is the ideal place to stay if you want to be treated like a king. It is housed in a beautiful heritage-listed building and stands out thanks to its gourmet restaurant where you can taste local cuisine.

💰 Budget Pick: Wakeup Copenhagen – Borgergade

Although it is listed as one of the cheap places to stay in Copenhagen, this hotel will offer you a comfortable stay, with facilities worthy of a higher-end hotel. And its location, a 5-min walk from Rosenborg, couldn’t be better!

Best Nightlife Area in Copenhagen: Vesterbro

Vesterbro is a neighborhood that is located southwest of the center of Copenhagen. In the past, this neighborhood was a red-light district that wasn’t very attractive. However, it has undergone a transformation and is now a trendy neighborhood that provides an authentic experience of the Copenhageners’ life.

You can find many typical restaurants to taste the local specialties, cafes terraces to relax, and bars with a friendly and lively atmosphere where you can spend long evenings. The area is mostly known for hosting the City Hall and the Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. 

Compared to other popular areas, Vesterbro is less crowded with tourists, making it an ideal place to discover the Danish capital off the beaten path, especially if you are looking to experience the nightlife.

Only separated from the old town by the Central Station, it is an ideal location to explore the city on foot or by public transportation, with more affordable accommodations making it an excellent alternative to Indre By if you are on a budget.

Where to Stay in Vesterbro

Find out excellent hotel recommendations located in Vesterbro right below to enjoy Copenhagen’s nightlife to the fullest.

✅ Best Hotel: Best Western Hotel Hebron

This hotel is centrally located only a 5 min walk from Tivoli Gardens and offers a tasty Scandinavian buffet every morning, high-standard facilities, and bicycles to rent for your visits. And kudos to the friendly staff!

✨ Luxury Choice: Andersen Boutique Hotel

Situated next to the Central Station, this 4-star boutique hotel will blow you away with its award-winning decoration, delicious breakfast, and welcoming and helpful staff.

💰 Budget Pick: CityHub Copenhagen

This is one of the cheapest accommodations in the area, but don’t worry: everything is spotlessly clean, the capsule rooms have perfect size and you can even enjoy relaxing in the sauna after a long day of exploration.

Coolest Area to Stay in Copenhagen: Christianshavn

Christianshavn is situated just across the canal from the historic center and can be easily reached by crossing the Inderhavnsbroen or Knippelsbro bridge. With its picturesque canals, bustling harbor, and charming cobblestone streets surrounded by colorful old houses, Christianshavn is without a doubt the coolest neighborhood in Copenhagen, with a touch of romance.

Christianshavn is also home to Freetown Christiania, a unique district founded in the 1970s by a community of hippies, which has come to symbolize Danish counterculture. Visitors are drawn to this “city within a city” for its communal housing, cannabis sales, and free-spirited hippie culture. Walking around here, you will be surprised to see a different flag and people paying for their purchases with their own currency.

Christianshavn also features a range of bars, restaurants, and unconventional accommodation options, making it an open and welcoming neighborhood that’s definitely worth a visit if you are interested in alternative lifestyles.

Where to Stay in Christianshavn

If you are looking for a taste of alternative living, Christianshavn is the ideal destination, and we’ve got some excellent hotel recommendations that are sure to please.

✅ Best Hotel: Kanalhuset

This fantastic property boasts multiple rooms with private bathrooms, Danish decor, and an in-house restaurant. Some rooms are also equipped with a kitchen and a seating area, making it ideal for larger groups.

✨ Luxury Choice: NH Collection Copenhagen

This 5-star hotel is for sure the best option in Christianshavn. Each room is fully furnished with high-quality amenities, and some offer a breathtaking city view. The buffet breakfast is delicious and is adapted to all diet plans.

💰 Budget Pick: Esben Juhls Guest Room

This perfectly located guesthouse offers a stunning view of the Church of our Saviour. With (copious) Danish breakfast included, cozy decoration, and caring owners, you will feel right at home.

Cheapest Stay in Copenhagen: Nørrebro

Nørrebro is the student district, and it is a popular place for young people from abroad living in Copenhagen. As it is within walking distance from Indre By, this neighborhood is also a good place to start your visits to the city.

Located northeast of the city center, this dynamic and multicultural area is home to some of the liveliest streets in Copenhagen, boasting many pubs, wine bars, renowned restaurants, and trendy stores like Jægersborggade Street.

There are also a few great hidden gems to discover like the Assistens Cemetery, the final resting place of the famous Hans Christian Andersen, the author behind the Little Mermaid tale.

​​Accommodations in Nørrebro are somewhat limited, but the rates are much more affordable. With some advanced planning, you should be able to find the perfect place to spend a few nights in this lively neighborhood, which is a bit removed from the most touristy areas and crowds, without breaking the bank.

Where to Stay in Nørrebro

If you are looking for cheaper and quieter options at a close distance from the old town, Nørrebro is for you. Here are my top recommendations in the area:

✅ Best Hotel: Beautiful Spacious Rooms

The apartment provides 4 spacious and tastefully furnished rooms, fully furnished with shared bathrooms and a kitchen, making it an ideal choice for couples or sizable groups.

✨ Luxury Choice: Hotel Nora Copenhagen

In this 3-star hotel, you will be welcomed by a very friendly and polite staff and very large rooms for maximum comfort. The breakfast served every morning is the highlight.

💰 Budget Pick: Globalhagen Hostel

This non-profit hostel is a volunteer-run place with eco-friendly practices. You can buy organic snacks from the bakery on-site and enjoy a comfortable night’s rest in the well-designed and tidy dorm rooms.

Best Place to Stay in Copenhagen with Family: Østerbro

Located north of the historic center of Indre By, Østerbro is a residential district of Copenhagen, situated by the Baltic Sea and close to the lakes of the region. The famous Little Mermaid statue, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, can be found at the point where the 2 neighborhoods meet.

Østerbro is well known for its many green spaces and flowery streets, which make it a popular destination for families. The largest park in the capital, Fælledparken, can be found here which is the perfect place to take a break from the urban frenzy and enjoy some tranquility.

This quiet and chic area where many Danish celebrities live has fewer attractions than the city center. However, you will be able to discover the daily life of the inhabitants of Copenhagen a little more closely, while remaining within easy reach of the city’s main sites of interest by walk or public transportation.

Where to Stay in Østerbro

Østerbro is the ideal spot for those looking for an in-town relaxing stay, especially if you are traveling with family and kids. Discover below top accommodations to stay in the area.

✅ Best Hotel: Comwell Copenhagen Portside Dolce by Wyndham

Everything in this hotel is perfect: thanks to its convenient location near the metro station and by the port, the spacious and comfy rooms, the modern deco, and the attentive staff, you can’t go wrong with this place!

✨ Luxury Choice: Adina Apartment Hotel Copenhagen

This 4-star hotel offers luxury condo rooms with private kitchens and balconies with nice views. I have to mention the wonderful indoor swimming pool (heated of course) and the fully equipped fitness center to stay fit during your stay.

💰 Budget Pick: Rye115 Hotel

This place is particularly well-furnished and decorated with a nice staff, a tasty breakfast, and a large living room to chill in. Bathrooms are shared but always super clean, so you don’t need to worry about this. Note that the rates for this place aren’t as cheap as you might imagine as Østerbro is an expensive area to stay.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen to Swim: Islands Brygge

In case you didn’t know: YES, it is possible to swim in Copenhagen, and the district of Islands Brygge is one of the best places to do it!

Located south of the historic center and Christianshavn in the northern part of Amager Island, this neighborhood is clearly not a tourist area as there are very few sights to see. But it is very well located, only a 15 min subway ride from Indre By. The housing in the northern part of Islands Brygge is even well placed to allow you to walk quickly to the center.

Islands Brygge is one of the most popular and best-equipped swimming spots in the city with diving boards, wooden sunbathing decks, sports facilities, and barbecues.

If you are visiting Copenhagen during the summer months, staying in Islands Brygge is the only place that allows you to enjoy both the city and the sea. During the winter season, you can still see the locals taking a dip in the water, and you can follow suit if you can handle the cold!

Where to Stay in Islands Brygge

Islands Brygge is the ideal district to discover a lesser-known side of the Danish capital, that of a seaside town where it is possible to swim all year round. Here are the best places to stay in the area:

✅ Best Hotel: Hotel CPH Living

If you like unique experiences, why not try spending the night on a boat? Hotel CPH Living offers the perfect opportunity to do so, with a private terrace, all the necessary amenities and a delicious homemade Danish breakfast served daily. This cozy accommodation is ideal for 2 people who value privacy and uniqueness.

✨ Luxury Choice: Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel

This beautiful 4-star hotel with great views over both the canal and the Christianshavn district is a stunning complex with 3 restaurants, 2 bars, a fitness center, and even a casino. Rooms are outstanding and the location is very practical, only 5 min walk from the metro station.

💰 Budget Pick: Hotel Copenhagen

This good value-for-money hotel has a convenient location close to the subway and 15 min walk from Tivoli Gardens. Here, you will have a choice between shared or private bathrooms and bunkbeds or full beds. And in the morning, a continental breakfast buffet is served.

Best Area of Copenhagen to Stay for Short Trips: Copenhagen Airport

While in most European capitals the airport is often out of the way, you only need 15 min by metro to reach the city center from Copenhagen Airport. This closeness makes it possible to consider staying near the airport for accommodation when visiting the Danish capital.

The airport is located in a small suburban town southeast of the city center, Kastrup. It is very well served by public transport, and you can access downtown Copenhagen using line M2 of the subway.

The Copenhagen airport area can be a very convenient place to stay for those with early or late flights, for a stopover, or/and if you are spending only a day in Copenhagen. Regarding the immediate area, there are no attractions and much fewer dining and entertainment options than downtown. So, I don’t recommend staying in this area if you are in Copenhagen for a longer trip.

Where to Stay near Copenhagen Airport

If you are planning a brief stay in Copenhagen or just a layover, take a look at the top hotels near the airport that will ensure a convenient and efficient trip.

✅ Best Hotel: Clarion Hotel

Directly connected to the airport’s Terminal 3, this hotel offers spacious, fully equipped rooms, some with panoramic views of the Öresund. The little extras: it is located 12 min by metro from the city center and offers a unique flight check-in service for 15 major airlines.

✨ Luxury Choice: Best Western Plus Airport Hotel

This 3-star hotel, a short 10-min walk from Kastrup metro station, offers comfortable and bright Scandinavian-style rooms. The breakfast buffet provides plenty of choices, and guests can unwind in the on-site bar and restaurant in the evenings.

💰 Budget Pick: Copenhagen Go Hotel

Located 200 meters from Tårnby Train Station, this beautifully decorated hotel offers functional, fully equipped accommodation. A buffet breakfast is served in the hotel’s dining room by friendly staff. In the evening you can relax with a drink at the bar.

How Many Days Is Ideal in Copenhagen?

The answer to this question may vary depending on your interests and travel style. But in my opinion, the ideal amount of time to spend in Copenhagen is 3 to 4 days to see the main sights, experience the local culture and soak up the atmosphere of the city.

This time frame also leaves some room to explore the city at a leisurely pace and possibly take day trips to nearby destinations such as Frederiksborg.

However, if you are interested in a particular aspect of Copenhagen, such as gastronomy or design culture, you can extend your trip up to 5 days.

Need help to plan your trip? Check out my tailor-made 3-day itinerary to Copenhagen now! 

SMK museum’s backside facade

Where Should I Stay in Copenhagen for the First Time?

The best place to stay in Copenhagen for first-timers is Indre By (old town), hands down! It places you in the heart of the city, near all the must-see sights.

However, this area is quite expensive. So if you are traveling on a budget, then I recommend you to stay in these other best places to stay in Copenhagen: Vesterbro, Christianshavn, Østerbro, or Nørrebro. These are great alternatives as they are all within walking distance of most attractions.

What are the Neighborhoods to Avoid in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is generally a safe city, and there are no neighborhoods that are considered absolutely dangerous.

However, you should know that the Blågårds Plads and Mjølnerparken areas of Nørrebro are known for some gang activity, making it an area to avoid walking around at night.

And while tourist hotspots may attract pickpockets, using common sense can help prevent any mishaps. For example by being aware of your surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and avoiding walking alone in unlit areas at night.

Final Thoughts

To sum up this post in a few words, I would say that the overall best place to stay in Copenhagen is Indre By, the city’s historic center. Although it is more expensive than other neighborhoods, it provides a unique and authentic Copenhagen experience along with easy access to the must-see attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

Visit Copenhagen

Find below several other posts about Copenhagen to help you prepare for your upcoming trip:

➡️ Spending more than a day in Copenhagen? Here are longer Copenhagen itineraries:

• How to Spend 24 Hours in Copenhagen
• 2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary
• 3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary
• 5 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

➡️ And here are other posts to better discover Copenhagen and beyond, along with travel tips:

• Best Train Trips from Copenhagen
• Best Things to Do in Copenhagen in Winter
• Most Beautiful Copenhagen Castles
• Day Trip to Frederiksborg Slot
• Must-Eat Food in Copenhagen
• Free Things to do in Aarhus

I hope you could’ve found the best area in Copenhagen to stay for you through this post; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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