Top 6 Areas to Stay in Copenhagen for First-Time Visitors

Copenhagen is a magical city to visit. Known for its medieval city center, rows of colorful houses on the waterfront, and an excellent gastronomic scene, there are zero reasons why the city shouldn’t be at the top of your bucket list.

If you’re planning to visit Copenhagen but are unsure where to stay in the city, I’ve got good news. This detailed guide covers the six best areas to stay in Copenhagen and explores their top attractions.

This guide covers everything from the best neighborhoods for families to the best areas for culture and creativity. And obviously, there’s a recommendation for first-time visitors to Copenhagen who want to stay in the center of the action and be close to all the top sights!

Why You Should Listen To Us

Trust me because reading and writing hotel reviews are two of my many hobbies. Furthermore, I’ve traveled to Copenhagen and had to go through the ordeal of researching all the hotels and areas to stay in for myself. Consequently, I want to share my findings with you! Dave and Deb have also traveled to Copenhagen and offer their invaluable insights.

Where To Stay In Copenhagen

The city center of Copenhagen is compact and well-connected to the suburbs with the metro, trains, and buses. There’s hardly a bad area to stay in Copenhagen, especially if you’re fine with a 15-minute metro ride to the historic center.

That being said, some hotels are better than others, and I’ve done my due diligence to find only the best hotels in this Danish city. Our guide covers everything, from affordable hostels to Copenhagen’s best luxury hotels.

Don’t Have Time To Read The Full Article?

• First-Time Visitor: Anything in the inner city center is great, so consider hotels like 25 Hours Indre By, Capsule Hotel Nyhaven63, and NH Collection Copenhagen.
• Overall Our Favorites: The Nimb Hotel, The Audo Hotel, and Scandic Falkoner are exceptional picks regardless of location.
• Alternate Accommodation: If you prefer staying in private apartments, look into City Square Hotel Apartments, By The Beach, and The Churchill Apartments.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at the 25Hours Hotel Copenhagen in Indre By and had a great time. We chose the hotel primarily for the location close to Rosenborg Castle, as we planned to spend an entire day roaming around the castle grounds.

Service was excellent, the rooms were clean, and I especially loved all the decor elements. There’s so much life in the room, and I highly recommend this hotel to anyone tired of standard rooms where everything is white, beige, or light grey.

Indre By: Our Recommendation For First-Time Visitors

Indre By is the city center of Copenhagen with all the best landmarks and attractions. For first-time visitors who want to be within walking distance of the best things to do in Copenhagen, there is no better area in the city.

It’s the heart of the Danish capital with cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and all the famous landmarks. Some of the best Copenhagen hotels are situated in Indre By, so travelers are spoiled for choice regardless of their preferred hotel type and price range.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Indre By

Pros:

• Walking distance to tourist attractions
• Many hotels to choose from
• Excellent public transport connections
• Historic part of the city

Cons:

• The busiest area of Copenhagen
• Hotels and restaurants can be expensive

Highlights of Staying in Indre By

If it feels like all of Copenhagen’s landmarks and attractions are in Indre By, it’s because they are. The historic heart of the city is known for castles, sprawling public squares, historic buildings, and much more.

• Tivoli Gardens: The amusement park is one of the most famous landmarks in Copenhagen. With seasonal decorations and themes, the park always has something new to discover. Moreover, with more than 30 amusement rides, Tivoli Gardens warrants an entire day for proper exploration.
• Rosenborg Castle: Set in the heart of Indre By, this is one of Copenhagen’s most recognizable landmarks. A moat, lavish furnishings, opulent decorations, and the Danish Crown Jewels make it a must-visit.

• Copenhagen Opera House: Known for its modern architecture, this building on Holmen Island offers spectacular views from most parts of central Copenhagen. Therefore, if the opportunity arises, seeing a live performance here would be a unique experience.
• Copenhagen City Hall (Square): This iconic landmark features an ornate facade and houses Jens Olsen’s World Clock. The City Square in front of the Rathaus can hold up to 50,000 people, making it the largest square in Copenhagen.

Best Places to Stay in Indre By

The historic center of Copenhagen offers a plethora of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for budget, mid-range, luxury hotels, or private apartments, this neighborhood won’t disappoint. Furthermore, all the main attractions are close together, ensuring you’ll be within easy walking distance regardless of where you stay.

Capsule Hotel Nyhavn63

Capsule Hotel Nyhavn63 is the best budget hotel for travelers seeking affordability in Copenhagen. I prefer capsule hotels to common hostels because the capsules provide more privacy than dormitory bunk beds, and the prices are generally comparable.

Capsules for solo travelers start at $25; a double capsule for two adults costs around $45. This hotel even has options for single rooms and capsules with private bathrooms, although amenities may be limited.

The location is excellent, set among historic buildings on the docks, offering views of ships and the canal. Moreover, you’ll still be within walking distance of all the top landmarks in Copenhagen. Check rates and availability here.

25hours Hotel Indre By

Located in the heart of the city, the 25 Hours Hotel Indre By is just a few minutes from Rosenborg Castle. It features spacious rooms with colorful decor, comfortable beds, and sparkling clean ensuite bathrooms.

Guests can also use the hotel gym and sauna for fitness and relaxation. Additionally, a terrace with lounge chairs is particularly popular during the summer months.

All hotel rooms have air conditioning, free WiFi, and a desk area. I particularly liked the furniture because it breaks away from the dull beige tones, adding character to the room. Rates start at $205 per night, excluding the delicious buffet breakfast. Check rates and availability.

NH Collection Copenhagen

NH Collection Copenhagen is a luxurious five-star hotel situated in the city’s heart. If you desire clean, spacious rooms, easy access to prestigious landmarks, and excellent service, this hotel should be at the top of your list.

With several restaurants, a bar, and a spectacular rooftop lounge area, enjoy one of the best views of the city. The nightly rate for a double room with breakfast is approximately $300. Check rates and availability

Vesterbro: Best For Longer Stays

Vesterbro is the area southwest of the inner city and is one of the most popular residential neighborhoods in Copenhagen, thanks to its easy access to the city center and relative tranquility compared to the bustling tourist hotspots.

This neighborhood is home to Copenhagen Central Station, making it ideal for those staying for an extended period. If you plan to spend a week or two in Copenhagen while taking multiple day trips, being close to both the central station and the city’s harbor is crucial.

Pros and Cons of Vesterbro

Pros:

• Easy access to the city center
• Copenhagen Central Station is here
• The residential area is mostly quiet

Cons:

• Fewer hotels available
• Limited tourist attractions

Highlights of Staying in Vesterbro

Vesterbro is primarily a residential area featuring performance venues and congress centers. While it doesn’t offer too many tourist attractions, it provides straightforward access to the city center, where all the main sights are.

• The Tube: An interactive museum located inside Copenhagen’s central station, featuring optical illusions and quirky light shows. It’s an enjoyable way to spend an hour and capture some unique photos.
• Enghaveparken: At the center of Vesterbro, this vast green space has playgrounds, fountains, and sculptures. It’s ideal for families or anyone seeking a break from the bustling city.

Best Places To Stay in Vesterbro

There are several accommodations in Vesterbro, particularly near Copenhagen’s central station. The hotels available provide a suitable range from budget to luxury, catering to both single travelers and families.

CityHub Copenhagen

CityHub Copenhagen offers a unique budget experience on the northern edge of Vesterbro. It is a five-minute walk from the Frederiksberg metro station and approximately 15 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station.

This hotel differs from standard accommodations; it offers hubs that are slightly more spacious than capsules and include individual storage for luggage. Although the bathrooms are shared, they are frequently cleaned and spotless.

The starting price is around $100 per night for a hub with a double bed, including breakfast for two, making it an attractive option. Without breakfast, it’s $65 for two, comparable to a standard hostel. Check for rates and availability.

Absalon Hotel

Absalon Hotel is family-owned and located just five minutes from Tivoli Gardens and central station. The rooms are compact yet clean, adorned with vibrant accents that add character.

If you choose to stay here, consider opting for the breakfast inclusion. They offer a delicious breakfast buffet, a staple in Scandinavian countries. Rates start at about $162 per night for two adults with breakfast, a great deal for a four-star hotel.

All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and desk areas, along with free fast WiFi. Check for rates and availability here.

Nimb Hotel

Nimb Hotel is the premier luxury hotel near Tivoli Gardens, boasting a prime location between Indre By and Vesterbro with easy access to all main attractions in the Danish capital. The hotel features spacious rooms equipped with designer furnishings, Bang & Olufsen TVs, and docking stations for various devices.

Each room includes an ensuite bathroom; however, only the smallest double rooms have showers. Most larger rooms include a bath, and some even have fireplaces along with luxury toiletries and bathrobes.

Rates start around $660 per night for two and approximately $700 with breakfast. The hotel also features a bar and restaurant, providing world-class service. Check rates and availability here.

Nørrebro: Best For Foodies and Creatives

Situated northwest of Indre By, Nørrebro is an emerging district with a vibrant culture. It is the top location for experiencing the culinary scene of Copenhagen and is renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants.

This area is also prime for art galleries and boutique shopping. If you’re on the lookout for unique items such as local paintings or handmade pottery, this is the best part of Copenhagen. While lacking in historic attractions, it offers a much different ambiance compared to the city center.

Pros and Cons of Nørrebro

Pros:

• Excellent food options
• Great shopping opportunities
• Abundance of parks

Cons:

• Limited tourist attractions
• Very few hotels available

Highlights of Staying in Nørrebro

Nørrebro may not be packed with tourist attractions like Indre By, but it certainly offers plenty to do. Here are a few reasons why you might specifically want to visit Nørrebro, even if you chose accommodations in the heart of Copenhagen.

• Assistens Cemetery: Not everyone enjoys visiting cemeteries, but for some, it is a highlight of their travels. This particular cemetery is noteworthy because it is the burial site of Hans Christian Andersen. The author’s tombstone serves as an iconic landmark in the neighborhood.
• Superkilen Park: An urban park designed to unite Copenhagen’s culturally diverse district, this vast space includes skating ramps, a jogging track, and a football field, making it an excellent location for locals and tourists alike.

Best Places to Stay in Nørrebro

The Nørrebro neighborhood features limited hotels, primarily hostels and budget-friendly accommodations in the northern sector. Additionally, there is a mid-range hotel near the docks, offering great views of Indre By and easy access to the town center.

Urban Camper Hostel & Bar

The Urban Camper Hostel & Bar is among the most affordable accommodations in Copenhagen. It’s perfect for budget travelers looking for a place to sleep without requiring many amenities. This isn’t a standard hostel; it features tents with bunk beds instead of large dormitories.

The tents are situated inside a spacious building, ensuring comfort with heating and AC. Each tent accommodates up to four people, and renting an entire tent costs around $80. A single bed is typically $20 per night, making it an excellent deal in Copenhagen, though you essentially get just a bed. Check here for rates and availability.

Hotel Nora Copenhagen

Hotel Nora Copenhagen is the only mid-range hotel in Nørrebro. This three-star establishment is located in a historic building along one of the main cycling routes. A bridge provides easy access to Indre By, allowing quick access to the main attractions.

Rooms are small but come equipped with essential furnishings, including an ensuite bathroom and TV. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast. Rates are around $144 per night for two adults with breakfast included, which is an amazing deal given the hotel’s excellent location.

Countless restaurants and bars are nearby, providing plenty of dining options. A bus stop is also just down the road from Hotel Nora, directly connecting you to the city center. Check here for rates and availability.

Frederiksberg: Best For Families

Frederiksberg is a tranquil residential neighborhood nestled between Nørrebro and Vesterbro. Known for its expansive parks and the Frederiksberg Palace, the area is well-connected to the city center and other districts via metro.

This district caters primarily to residents, apart from the tourist attraction around the palace. Consider staying here if you prefer a quieter experience in Copenhagen, away from the constant noise and hustle of the inner city.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Frederiksberg

Pros:

• Ideal for families
• Metro access to the city center
• Peaceful and not crowded

Cons:

• Not within walking distance of main landmarks
• Limited hotel options
• Few tourist attractions

Highlights of Staying in Frederiksberg

In terms of attractions and things to do, Frederiksberg ranks as the second-best locale to stay in Copenhagen, just after Indre By. With excellent shopping opportunities and numerous specialty food stores, Frederiksberg is also a favorite among locals.

• Frederiksberg Palace and Gardens: This 18th-century palace is the most popular historical landmark in this district. Constructed in Italian Baroque style, it offers tours of royal apartments. The gardens feature landscaped walking paths, canals, and lakes.
• Cisterns in Søndermarken: This underground art space is set in a former reservoir, hosting thematic exhibitions and events. It’s a must-visit for any art lovers or creatives in the city.

Best Places to Stay in Frederiksberg

Due to its predominantly residential nature, Frederiksberg has a limited selection of hotels. However, those present are good mid-range options that provide everything you need for a stay in Copenhagen. Be cautious of a few poorly rated budget hotels near the docks, which are best avoided.

Hotel Sct. Thomas

Hotel Sct. Thomas is a three-star facility housed in an exquisite historic building. Located on the border of Frederiksberg and Vesterbro, it is approximately a 15-minute walk from Copenhagen’s central station. Nearby bus and metro stops enhance accessibility.

Rooms at the hotel are compact but equipped with all the essentials, including an ensuite bathroom, flat-screen TV, and desk area. Rates start at $120 per night for two adults, offering great value.

Larger and single rooms are also available. Overall, Hotel Sct. Thomas presents excellent value and a prime location in Copenhagen. Check rates and availability.

Scandic Falkoner

Scandic Falkoner is a four-star hotel conveniently located near the Frederiksberg transit station. This establishes easy access to Copenhagen’s inner city center via three metro lines.

The modern, sleek rooms feature comfortable beds and large windows, providing excellent natural light. Each room includes a clean ensuite bathroom with a shower, free Wi-Fi, a kettle, and desk area.

Rates begin at $211 for two adults, including breakfast options ranging from continental to buffet. Check rates and availability here.

Østerbro: Best For Outdoor Activities

Østerbro, located north of Indre By, is celebrated for its vast parks, boat tours, and Parken stadium. Home to Fælledparken, Copenhagen’s largest park, it’s a popular spot for outdoor sports.

This neighborhood also boasts an evolving dining scene, housing Geranium, ranked as the best restaurant in the world in 2022. Consider Østerbro if you wish to experience a peaceful side of Copenhagen, with ample opportunities for boating and outdoor activities.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Østerbro

Pros:

• Excellent restaurant scene
• Variety of fun activities
• Accessibility via boat

Cons:

• Lacking major tourist attractions
• Few metro stations are available

Highlights of Staying in Østerbro

While Østerbro isn’t as crowded with tourist attractions like Indre By, its landmarks are equally iconic and can be just as busy.

• Langelinie: The famous Little Mermaid sculpture draws numerous tourists in Østerbro. Located at Langelinie, a promenade enhanced by picturesque sea views and cafes, the statue is one of Copenhagen’s busiest landmarks.
• Dinner at Geranium: Geranium, now renowned as the world’s best restaurant, features three Michelin stars, offering a uniquely refined dining experience.
• Kastellet: This military fortress, straddling Østerbro and Indre By, is one of Copenhagen’s most well-preserved citadels, dating back to the 17th century.

Best Places to Stay in Østerbro

Østerbro features a fine selection of hotels, predominantly near the waterfront and metro. However, it’s important to note that proper budget options are scarce here. While you might not find inexpensive accommodations, the area does offer numerous fantastic hotels with premium service and stunning views.

Comwell Copenhagen Portside Dolce by Wyndham

The Comwell Copenhagen is an excellent four-star hotel, just steps away from one of the city’s many ports. It features a range of double and family rooms and suites, making it a versatile choice for any travel group.

Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, desk, and flat-screen TV, ensuring cleanliness and comfort. The hotel also boasts a fitness center and a popular sun terrace to bask in Copenhagen’s rare sunny days.

Room rates start at $125 per night (for two), offering incredible value for such a superb hotel. Although located a bit outside the main city center, you’re only a short 5-10 minute journey to the heart of the action via boat or metro. Check for rates and availability here.

Adina Apartment Hotel Copenhagen

This hotel is perfect for travelers who prefer apartment-style accommodations. Each guest enjoys their own private space, complete with a bathroom and kitchenette, alongside access to shared facilities such as a pool, gym, lounge room, and restaurant.

The Adina Apartment Hotel provides a range of accommodations, from studio apartments suitable for couples to two-bedroom units for up to five guests. Larger apartments are equipped with full-sized kitchens and washers/dryers, making them ideal for extended stays in Copenhagen. See here for rates and availability.

The Audo Copenhagen

The Audo Copenhagen is a high-end hotel featuring sleek modern rooms. All accommodations come with large, extra-long double beds, making it an excellent choice for taller travelers.

The rooms are impeccably clean, as are the ensuite bathrooms. Nightly rates start around $400, which includes a fantastic breakfast. Moreover, the hotel is conveniently located just two minutes from the nearest metro station, facilitating easy navigation of the city. Check here for rates and availability.

Amagerbro: Best For Beaches and Sea Views

Amagerbro is located south of Copenhagen’s city center and is known for its beaches, water sports, and beautiful waterfront views. It is the perfect area for those who enjoy proximity to the water. Consider Amagerbro if you’re planning a summer trip to the Danish capital.

This neighborhood is also closest to Copenhagen Airport. For travelers on a short trip who prefer proximity to the airport—about 3-4 metro stops away—Amagerbro is an excellent option, offering hotel rates generally lower than those in the city center, while still maintaining high service quality and amenities.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Amagerbro

Pros:

• Short travel time to the airport
• Best Copenhagen beaches
• Access to water sports

Cons:

• Distance from the city center
• Limited hotel and dining options

Highlights of Staying in Amagerbro

Amagerbro is known for having the best beaches in the city. While you won’t find many historic landmarks here, plenty of fun water activities await.

• Amager Beach Park: This man-made beach features a 4-kilometer sandy shore, ideal for leisurely strolls, stunning sea views, and water activities.
• Copenhagen Cablepark: Located in northern Amagerbro, this is the best spot for water sports enthusiasts, particularly for wakeboarding. It caters to both experienced wakeboarders and beginners alike.

Best Places To Stay in Amagerbro

Amagerbro lacks luxurious hotels, but you can find several budget and mid-range options close to both the airport and city center.

Go Hotel City

Go Hotel City is one of the best affordable hotels in Copenhagen. While the rooms are compact, they are clean and equipped with essential amenities. Each guest enjoys access to a private bathroom, fast Wi-Fi, and a TV.

Rates start at just $80 per night, which is a fantastic deal for couples. Go Hotel City also offers special rates for solo travelers. Its proximity to the metro station ensures a 20-minute journey to the airport and just a 15-minute ride to the city center. Check rates and availability.

CPH Studio Hotel

CPH Studio Hotel is an affordable three-star establishment located about five minutes from two metro stations. Each room features sleek Danish furnishings, a private bathroom, and a kitchenette.

The hotel also features an on-site bar and a restaurant, just a 10-minute walk from the beach. Rates begin at $116 for two adults, excluding breakfast, which is an excellent value given that each room includes a stovetop. The hotel is conveniently located just 15 minutes from both the airport and the city center. Check here for rates and availability.

FAQ About Where To Stay In Copenhagen

What Is The Best Area To Stay In Copenhagen?

Indre By is the best area to stay in Copenhagen, comprising the city center with all the famous landmarks and tourist attractions.

Is Copenhagen a Walkable City?

Yes, Copenhagen is a highly walkable city. The central area is mostly compact and flat, allowing easy movement between attractions.

How Much Time is Enough For Copenhagen?

Three days is a sufficient amount of time to explore Copenhagen, allowing you to visit all major attractions and perhaps take a day trip to a nearby destination.

What is The Most Picturesque Part of Copenhagen?

Indre By, with its medieval city center, is the most picturesque part of Copenhagen, featuring historic buildings, colorful waterfront houses, and beautiful statues.

Now that you know where to stay in Copenhagen, are you ready to start planning your Scandinavian adventures?