three pictures with three different hotels in copenhagen. first is a hotel with a pool second is a tray of breakfast from room service and a girl looking out the window, the third is tivoli gardens and the a moorish-style hotel

WHERE TO STAY IN COPENHAGEN: BEST HOTELS FOR FIRSIT VISIT

Looking for where to stay in Copenhagen for your first visit?

If you need to find a luxurious and stylish sleep in Copenhagen’s city center – I have you covered! What about recommendations for family hotels or budget-friendly hotels in a great location? Guess what…. I have that too! 

Copenhagen is the city that made me fall in love with travel. I’ve spent months exploring this beautiful city. I know all the ins and outs of what to do and where to stay in Copenhagen to help you narrow down the perfect hotel for your travel needs.

If you’re ready for a stylish escape and an epic sleep in Copenhagen – this is the essential guide to where to stay in Copenhagen for your first visit, written by a local! 

Short on Time? Here are my Top Picks for Where to Stay in Copenhagen 

  1. Nyhavn 71, best central Copenhagen hotel 
  2. Villa Copenhagen, best hotel near Tivoli Gardens 
  3. Tivoli Hotel, best hotel with kids 
  4. Best Western Hotel Hebron, best budget-friendly hotel 
  5. Manon Les Suites, best for couples

Need restaurant recommendations too?!  I’ve compiled a list of 50+ of my favorite bakeries, cocktail bars, and restaurants in Copenhagen.

Where to Stay Near Copenhagen in City Center

Copenhagen is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each offering its unique character.  From the trendy streets of Vesterbro to the charming, historic heart of the city, choosing where to stay in Copenhagen will depend on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

For your first visit to Copenhagen, I recommend staying in the city center (Indre By) or Vesterbro where you’ll be close to the most iconic attractions.

Indre By (Inner City)

copenhagen Indre By city center canal view

Indre By, or the Inner City, is the historic city center of Copenhagen. If you are a first-time visitor to Copenhagen, this is where you should book accommodation. Hotels in city center typically run from mid-range to luxury, but it’s a price worth paying to have the best attractions right outside your doorstep! 

The area is very walkable and is connected by all kinds of public transportation (including a harbor bus!). Indre By is where you need to book to have beautiful landmarks like Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg, and picturesque Nyhavn, outside your door.

Vesterbro

Vesterbro Copenhagen
Photo Credit: Wonderful Copenhagen

Vesterbro is a great neighborhood if you want a lively local atmosphere with a hipster vibe. Once known as a red-light district, Vesterbro has undergone significant gentrification in recent years. Today, it’s Copenhagen’s trendiest neighborhood filled with trendy cocktail bars and a few of my restaurants in the city. For example, you can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants or bars in the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen)! 

Vesterbro is the perfect neighborhood to stay in if you want to party and experience Copenhagen like a local. Best of all in Vesterbro, you’re still in walking distance, or a quick bike ride to all the main attractions. Vesterbro is best known for being home to City Hall and Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks.

Here are my top picks for where to stay in Copenhagen for your first visit!

What to Do For Your First Visit to Copenhagen

Rosenborg Castle exterior copenhagen
Rosenborg Castle

Start your day by exploring Nyhavn early in the morning, refuel with a Danish pastry and a cup of coffee at Buka Bakery. The best way to see the Copenhagen sights in just a few hours is by bike! On this bike tour, you’ll stop by iconic Copenhagen landmarks like The Little Mermaid, Christiansborg Castle, and Amalienborg in just two hours!

For your second day in Copenhagen, book a canal tour sightseeing tour with Hey Captain! Unlike other larger canal tours in Copenhagen, Hey Captain tours promise their guests a personalized experience. Their tour guides share history about famous Copenhagen landmarks as well as hidden gems. No scripts, no microphones, – it’s no wonder why Hey Captain is the #1 rated canal tour in Copenhagen.

 These are my top choices of where to stay in Copenhagen in city center.  

Hotel Kong Arthur

⭐ 8.7/10 stars (5,500+  Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Location: City Center
  • Hotel Amenities: Cozy hours, spa, sauna, relaxation area, fitness center, free wi-fi, electric kettle in-room for coffee/tea, 
  • Attractions Nearby: The Lakes, Botanical Garden, Rosenborg Castle, The Round Tower
  • Best Places to Eat Nearby: Slurp Ramen, HøstMahalleTorvehallerne (food hall) 

 

Photo Credit:  Hotel Kong Arthur

Tucked away, in a quiet cobblestone street between the Copenhagen city center and the vibrant neighborhood of Nørrebro, is the Hotel Kong Arthur. Hotel Kong Arthur is around the corner from one of my favorite places the Copenhagen Inner Lakes, better known amongst locals as “the Lakes”. 

Hotel Kong Arthur still has its original exterior appearance from 1882, but the interior blends modern comforts with classic Danish design. A few highlights of this hotel are the elegant furniture and art, a cozy fireplace, comfortable beds, and extra-long duvets for the best sleep. Their on-site Ni’Mat Spa has a sauna, hot tub, and relaxation areaA unique experience I love at Hotel Kong Arthur is the evening “cozy hours” they host between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Guests are invited to the lobby where they serve a little treat along with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

citizenM Hotel

⭐ 8.7/10 stars (7,600+  Reviews)

  • Price: $
  • Location: City Center
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi, in-room iPad to control the blackout curtains, lighting, and temperature, restaurant and bar onsite, rooftop city views 
  • Attractions Nearby:  Tivoli Gardens, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Strøget
  • Best Places to Eat Nearby: Feed BistroVækst, Tivoli Food Hall

 

Photo Credit:  citizenM Hotel

A modern and quirky hotel smack dab in the middle of the city. I love the location of the citizenM Hotel – you have Tivoli Gardens, city hall, and museums all outside your door. CitizenM Hotels are known for blending luxury brand standards with the latest technology to provide a high-end hybrid hotel experience at a reasonable price.


25Hours Hotels Indre By 

⭐ 8.8/10 stars (6,200+  Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Location: City Center
  • Hotel Amenities: Pet-friendly, sauna, relaxation area, free wi-fi, speakeasy bar
  • Attractions Nearby: Rosenborg Palace, Round Tower, and Christiansborg Palace,
  • Best Places to Eat Nearby: Restaurant Komplet, Det Lille Apotek, Seks

Photo Credit:  25Hours Hotels Indre By 


25Hours Hotels Indre By is chic and stylish!  It’s located in a 19th century building that was once a porcelain factory and a university.  The rooms are spacious with high ceilings and hearted floors. The outdoor sauna is the perfect place to relax and recharge.  Its fabulous location in the heart of city center is close to Copenhagen’s main attractions like Rosenborg Palace, the Round Tower, and Christiansborg Palace.

NH Collection Copenhagen 

 ⭐ 9/10 stars (7,690+ Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Location: Christianshavn
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi,  coffee/tea maker in all rooms, room service,  fitness center
  • Attractions Nearby: Church of our Savior, Freetown Christiania, Christiansborg Palace, National Museum of Denmark
  • Best Places to Eat Nearby: Rufino Osteria, Christianshavns Færgecafé, Kadeau

 

Photo Credit:  NH Collection Copenhagen

The NH Collection Copenhagen is located in the beautiful Christianshavn neighborhood just outside city center. You’re a short walk from the Metro, which makes getting to/from the airport a breeze. The rooftop bar with stunning city views is not to be missed! Guests rave about the heated bathroom floors, plush robes, and premium toiletries.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen near Nyhavn 

a row of colorful houses in Nyhavn in Copenhagen, Denmark
Nyhavn

There’s something special about a sunny day in Nyhavn.  The warm sunlight and harbor casts a reflection of the buildings in the water, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. Speaking of fairytales, did you know that Danish author Hans Christian Andersen once lived in House No. 20 here in Nyhavn? It was here where he wrote some of his most famous stories, including The Tinderbox and The Princess and the Pea.

 

To have Nyhavn just footsteps away during your first visit to Copenhagen, you’ll love the hotels listed below.

Nyhavn 71

⭐ 8.8/10 stars (2,100+ Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Location: City center
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi,  delicious breakfast is included,  Nespresso machines in-room with complimentary coffee and tea capsules, Air conditioning, and dog-friendly 
  • Attractions Nearby: Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, Marble Church, 
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Broens Gadekøkken (Bridge Street Kitchen), Told & Snaps, Goldfinch

 

Photo Credit:  Nyhavn 71 Hotel

As a guest at 71 Nyhavn Hotel, get ready to experience a one-of-a-kind stay.  What was once a former warehouse building now has 130 rooms and suites with the best harbor views Copenhagen has to offer.  The interior of the hotel recently underwent restoration. Rooms are decorated with soft leather furniture and crisscrossing wooden beams, incorporating timeless Scandinavian elements in their design, but retaining the historic soul and charm of this iconic building. 

Admiral Hotel

⭐ 8.6/10 stars (7,250+ Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Location: City Center
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi, room service, on-site restaurant and bar, air conditioning 
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Punk Royale, Restaurant Koefoed, Barabba 

Photo Credit: Admiral Hotel

Located between Amalienborg Palace and Nyhavn, this historic hotel was originally a grain warehouse dating back to 1787. Today, the Admiral Hotel is one of the largest and most premier hotels in Copenhagen.  Each room has a cozy sitting area with leather sofas, all framed by exposed rafter beams that are over 200 years old.

Phoenix Copenhagen

⭐ 8.3/10 stars (2,120 Reviews)

  • Price: $$
  • Location: City Center
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi, room service, fitness center, air conditioning, and dog-friendly 
  • Attractions Nearby: Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, Marble Church, Kastellet, Little Mermaid
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Gasoline Grill, Goldfinch, Restaurant Koefoed

 

Photo Credit: Phoenix Copenhagen

Originally built in the 1680s, this hotel was demolished and rebuilt in 1847 and transformed into an elegant Victorian-style hotel. The suites at the Phoenix Copenhagen are spacious, featuring 18-karat gold-plated bathroom fixtures and carefully crafted reproductions of antique furnishings. However, be aware that the standard rooms tend to be rather small. 

Hotel Bethel

⭐ 8.9/10 stars (3,650+ Reviews)

  • Price: $
  • Location: City Center
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi, family rooms available, Nyhavn views 
  • Attractions Nearby: Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, Marble Church, Kastellet, Little Mermaid  Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Broens Gadekøkken (Bridge Street Kitchen), Told & Snaps, Llama

 

Photo Credit: Hotel Bethel

In the heart of the Nyhavn is Hotel Bethel! The rooms here are bright and modern, decorated with Danish design furniture. This is where you need to splurge on a room with a view of Nyhavn. After all, it’s not every day you get to wake up in such an iconic location. 

Where to Stay in Copenhagen Near Tivoli Gardens

tivoli gardens copenhagen
Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is my favorite place in Copenhagen.

Walk through the gates, and you’re transported to a world with whimsical manicured gardens, and wooden roller coasters. Tivoli’s story-book atmosphere has a way of bringing out your inner child. It’s a place for the young and old and is cherished amongst Danes. It’s no surprise that when Walt Disney visited Copenhagen he fell in love with Tivoli’s special atmosphere and used Tivoli as inspiration for Disneyland. 

Popover Tip: The best ride in Tivoli is the century-old wooden rollercoaster, Rutschebanen. It still has a breakman on board each train, and it’s one of the oldest wooden coasters that’s still operating today!

Looking for a hotel near Tivoli Gardens? These are the best places to stay near Tivoli Gardens!

Nimb Hotel

⭐ 9.3/10 stars (175+ Reviews)

  • Price: $$$$
  • Location: City Center
  • Amenities: Rooftop Pool, Spa, Fitness Center, Room Service, Pet-friendly, Nespresso coffee machine, concierge
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Feed Bistro, Nimb Brasserie

 

Photo Credit: Nimb Hotel

Few places can claim Tivoli Gardens as their backyard, but the Nimb Hotel is one of the lucky few. Nimb is more than just a hotel – it’s a truly immersive experience, where luxury, history, and enchantment blend seamlessly.

Located in an impressive 20th-century Moorish-inspired palace, this stylish boutique hotel features 38 uniquely designed rooms and suites. The exteriors have a fairytale appeal, but the inside is all smart sophistication with antiques, warm wood floors, and Danish artwork. Almost every room has a cozy log fire with stunning views of the magical Tivoli Gardens. 

 The owners of Nimb Hotel also own Tivoli Gardens, which means guests get easy, free VIP access to Tivoli Gardens and an unlimited ride pass through a door straight from the hotel.

Hotel Tiffany

⭐ 8.4/10 stars (3,100+ Reviews)

 

Photo Credit: Hotel Tiffany

Hotel Tiffany has a fantastic location and convenient amenities. This hotel is a great option when choosing where to stay in Copenhagen for your first visit!  You’re a five-minute walk to either Tivoli Gardens or Copenhagen Central Station. 

Hotel Tiffany is an ideal home base for food lovers, with a great selection of the best restaurants in Copenhagen just around the corner. 

All rooms have a convenient kitchenette. All kitchenettes have a mini-fridge, microwave, tea kettle, Nespresso coffee machine, toaster, and sink! Upon check-in, your refrigerator is stocked with cheese, fresh fruit, and a carton of orange juice! But wait, it gets better! Every morning a fresh batch of bread and pastries is delivered right to your door!

Grand Joanne

⭐ 8.7/10 stars (3,400+ Reviews)

 

Photo Credit: Hotel Grand Joanne

Hotel Grand Joanne is a trendy newly restored boutique hotel in Vesterbro, with a great vibe and central location. Think wicker lamps, vintage vanity mirrors, and blonde wood accent pieces. This is what Danish design looks like with a feminine touch. During summer, spend an afternoon on the beautiful rooftop at Hotel Grand Joanne sipping cocktails with panoramic views over Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen with Kids

 

Plan the perfect trip for your families first visit to Copenhagen.  With over 100+ playgrounds, and child-friendly attractions like Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Zoo, and the National Aquarium – Copenhagen is the perfect European destination for families. These kid-friendly hotels have spacious family rooms in prime locations that will make your first visit to Copenhagen a memorable adventure for everyone.

Wakeup Copenhagen – Borgergade

⭐ 8.9/10 stars (3,650+ Reviews)

  • Price: $
  • Neighborhood: City Center 
  • Amenities: Wi-fi, parking on-site, air conditioning, family rooms.
  • Attractions Nearby: Rosenborg Castle , Nyhavn, Amalienborg Royal Castle
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Gasoline Grill, Andersen & Maillard, Restaurant Palægade

 

Photo Credit: Wakeup Copenhagen

Wakeup Copenhagen is the ideal choice for families looking for an affordable stay in Copenhagen city center. You’ll find several of Copenhagen’s top attractions steps away with convenient access to the  Nørreport Station.

The rooms at Wakeup Copenhagen – Borgergade have all the essentials you’ll need for your stay. The family room at Wakeup Copenhagen can accommodate a family of four in one room. 

Tivoli Hotel

8.4/10 stars (2,900 + Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Neighborhood: Vesterbro
  • Amenities: Three restaurants, parking on-site, indoor pool, outdoor playground, indoor playroom, pet-friendly, free wifi, family rooms, fitness center
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Meatpacking District (Kødbyen)
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Warpigs Brewpub, Mother, Ismageriet

 

Photo Credit: Tivoli Hotel

This is the best child-friendly hotel in Copenhagen! Tivoli Hotel has the largest selection of child-friendly amenities like an indoor swimming pool, outdoor playground, and even a children’s playroom! The family rooms at the Tivoli Hotel accommodate a family of five and are available for booking with different configurations to suit your family.

The onsite restaurant, Tivoli Brasserie, has a menu for both children and adults. Even your pickiest of eaters will find something to eat! The location of Tivoli Hotel is good if you don’t mind a short walk. You’re roughly a 10-minute walk to Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Central Station. 

Where to Stay in Copenhagen for Couples 

a couple on swan boat in the middle of a lake

Hotel Ottilia

⭐ 8.6/10 stars (3,300 + Reviews)

  • Price: $$
  • Neighborhood: Vesterbro and Carlsberg Byen
  • Amenities: Daily wine hour for guests from 5 pm to 6 pm, complimentary coffee/tea in-room, fitness room, in-house fitness kits, free wifi
  • Attractions Nearby: Home of Carlsberg
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: SURT, Cadence, Beyla

Hotel Ottilia

If you love staying at unique, exciting hotels, Hotel Ottilia will check all your boxes and more! This hotel was once part of the Carlsberg Brewery! Hotel Ottilia was named after Ottilia Marie Jacobsen, the wife of brewer Carl Jacobsen. Their design has incorporated pieces from the old brewery and has transformed them into unique pieces of artwork. They host complimentary wine and nightcap hours designed to bring people together each evening

 I recommend booking one of the rooms with the round window seating. Best of all? The sleek and romantic AIRE Ancient Bath is right next door!

Villa Hotel

⭐ 8.7/10 stars (1,400 + Reviews)

  • Price: $$$
  • Neighborhood: Vesterbro and Carlsberg Byen
  • Amenities: Outdoor rooftop pool, sauna, free Wi-Fi,  heated bathroom floors, rain forest shower, rooftop terrace,  fitness center, room service, restaurant, and bar on-site 
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen City Hall
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Rug, Feed Bistro, T37 Sharing Bar

 

Photo Credit: Villa Copenhagen

A chic city-center hotel that’s one of the hottest stays in Copenhagen. The Villa Copenhagen is an architectural triumph. It was previously the headquarters of the  Danish postal service! The brick exterior has remained the same, but the interior has been converted into a 390-room luxury hotel. 

Unique to the Villa Copenhagen is its year-round outdoor heated glass pool that overlooks Tivili Gardens. During the summer, this is a hot spot for a swim and the best view for the Saturday evening fireworks at Tivoli Gardens. Next to the pool, you can relax in a Scandinavian indoor sauna. Their charming in-house bakery, “Rug” (Rye in Danish) is a perfect place to have a quiet moment with a coffee and one of their delicious baked goods.

Manon Les Suites

⭐ 8.6/10 stars (1,450+ Reviews)

 

Photo Credit: Manon Les Suites

  • Price: $$$
  • Neighborhood: City center
  • Amenities: Rooftop spa, sauna, free Wi-Fi,  coffee/tea maker in all rooms,  rooftop terrace, indoor pool, fitness center
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen City Hall
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Vækst, Sankt Peders Bageri, Kristinedal Burgers

Dreaming of a romantic getaway? The name may be French, and the location may be Copenhagen, but the inspiration comes straight from Bali. Manon Les Suites is a little fun, flirty, and luxurious all at the same time. 

The crown jewel of this hotel is the lush bali-inspired jungle pool. Surrounded by dangling fish light fixtures and plants sprouting from terracotta pots – it immediately draws guests in.

 This is where jungle vibes meet cozy charm in the heart of Copenhagen.

Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Copenhagen

sunset in copenhagen denmark overlooking a bridge

Copenhagen can be an expensive city to visit, but there are several easy ways to save money on your trip while not making any sacrifices! These are the best budget-friendly hotels to narrow your search for where to stay in Copenhagen.   All these budget hotels I listed below are in locations that are walkable to several major attractions and are metro accessible to the Copenhagen airport. 

Best Western Hotel Hebron

⭐ 8.4/10 stars (3,300+ Reviews)

  • Price: $
  • Neighborhood: Vesterbro
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi,  pet-friendly, in-room coffee/tea kettle, complimentary breakfast included, laundry facilities onsite 
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen City Hall
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Tivoli Food Hall, Sankt Peders Bageri, Kristinedal Burgers

 

Photo Credit: Best Western Hotel Hebron

The Best Western Hotel Hebron is a 5-minute walk away from Tivoli Gardens with all the amenities you need for a perfect first visit to Copenhagen. The rooms here are clean, spacious, and modern! Guests also love to the interior courtyard as a place to relax and “hygge”  with comfortable chairs, fire pits, and blankets. 

If you’re buying the Copenhagen Card – Hop it includes Stromma’s Hop On Hop Off bus tours. The Best Western Hotel Hebron is a short walk from one of Stromma’s stops.  A complimentary Scandinavian breakfast buffet is included and available every morning! You won’t find another complimentary hotel breakfast in Copenhagen for this value or quality!

Motel One Copenhagen

⭐ 8.3/10 stars (10,000+ Reviews)

  • Price: $
  • Neighborhood: City Center 
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi,  pet-friendly, rainfall shower, Chromecast TV to stream your favorite shows
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen City Hall, National Museum 
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Tivoli Food Hall, Sankt Peders Bageri, Kristinedal Burgers, John’s Hot Dog (hot dog cart outside of Central Station)

 

Photo Credit: Motel One Copenhagen

An affordable hotel in Copenhagen city center, opposite the city hall. Guests love how walkable this hotel is to all the Copenhagen landmarks! 

The rooms are inspired by the 50’s & 60’s Danish decor with a homey vibe and colorful design furnishings. Retro decor aside, you’ll find that Motel One Copenhagen has very modern amenities! My favorite perk here are their Cromecast televisions that allow you to stream your favorite shows. This is where to stay in Copenhagen for your first visit if you want comfortable beds, a walkable location, and a great price!

Go Hotel Ansgar

⭐ 8.1/10 stars (5,300+ Reviews)

  • Price: $
  • Neighborhood: Vesterbro 
  • Amenities: free Wi-Fi,  family rooms, laundry facilities 
  • Attractions Nearby: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen City Hall
  • Favorite Places to Eat Nearby: Cofoco, Neighbourhood, Tivoli Food Hall

 

Photo Credit: Go Hotel Ansgar

If you’re looking for a hotel that offers both convenience and comfort, this is the perfect choice! Just a short walk from the train station, it’s ideally situated close to Tivoli Gardens and great restaurants. While the rooms may be compact, they are spotless and cozy.

Still need more ideas on where to stay in Copenhagen? Search here:

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2 Comments

  1. Love you suggestions! CitizenM is always a go-to choice for me & my family. I also love the idea of the hotel that gives you VIP access to Tivoli Gardens. Now to plan a trip to Copenhagen….

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