Where to Stay in Copenhagen: Top Neighborhoods for First-Time Visitors

Thinking about where to stay in Copenhagen for first-time visitors? You’re not alone!! Denmark’s capital is quickly giving cities like Paris a run for their money. I recently got to experience it firsthand and, let me tell you, I totally get the hygge. I mean hype 😉 Between the bike-friendly streets, charming canals, and effortlessly cool vibe, it’s no wonder Copenhagen keeps topping the charts as one of the world’s most livable cities.

So you’re planning a trip to Copenhagen and wondering where to stay. Well, you’ve got options…but choosing the right one makes all the difference. The city’s coastal charm, abundant coffee shop scene, and super walkable layout make it a dream to explore, especially if it’s your first time to Copenhagen. Whether you’re traveling with kids, want to be steps from the top sights, or plan on bar-hopping your way through town, this guide breaks down exactly where to stay in Copenhagen (and just as importantly, where to avoid).

Keep reading to find out where to stay in Copenhagen for first-time visitors, including the top neighborhoods and the best boutique hotels in each. Let’s get intooooo it👇

Read more on Copenhagen 🇩🇰

• A First Timers Guide to the Best 2-Day Itinerary in Copenhagen, Denmark
• Inside 25hours Hotel Indre By: My Bold and Colorful Stay in Copenhagen

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Copenhagen at a Glance:

Short on time? Here are my top picks for the best boutique hotels in Copenhagen:

• 25hours Hotel Indre By (Indre By) – This is where I based myself in Copenhagen, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a fun and colorful art exhibit. Vibrant, quirky, and unapologetically bold, it’s an ideal pick for travelers who want to be right in the action and don’t mind WANT a hotel with a lot of character. Check out my full hotel review here!
• Manon les Suites Copenhagen (Indre By) – Probably the most Instagrammed hotel in the city, with jungle vibes and a photogenic indoor pool. If aesthetics are high on your list, this one’s worth a peek and a top contender when deciding where to stay in Copenhagen.
• Moxy Copenhagen Sydhavnen (Vesterbro) – You guys know I love my Moxy hotels! Energetic, stylish, and great for social travelers. With its cool industrial look, buzzing lobby bar, and comfy beds, it’s a solid choice for younger visitors wanting a design-forward stay without the fuss.
• Rye 115 Hotel (Østerbro) – This sweet little boutique hotel is all about warmth and simplicity. Family-owned and tucked in a quiet neighborhood, it’s perfect if you’re after homemade breakfast, cozy rooms, and a more local, laid-back experience.
• NH Collection Copenhagen (Islands Brygge) – Modern, polished, and right by the water, this upscale hotel blends Scandinavian style with comfort. A great option when figuring out where to stay in Copenhagen if you’re after something sleek and convenient to most major sights.

Curious to read more about my stay? Dive into the full review of my bold and colorful stay at 25hours Hotel Copenhagen!

Breakdown of Copenhagen Neighborhoods

One of the best things about Copenhagen is that it’s pretty compact. Which makes it super easy to get around, but each neighborhood definitely has its own personality. And picking the right one can really shape your trip. So before we dive into each one, let me give you a lil lay of the land of where to stay in Copenhagen for first-time visitors.

Indre By is the city’s historic center and the most popular spot for first-time visitors. Think cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and easy access to major sights like Nyhavn, Rosenborg Castle, and the Round Tower. It’s also packed with shops, museums, restaurants, and more.

Just west of Indre By is Vesterbro! Copenhagen’s hip, edgy, and effortlessly cool neighborhood. It’s full of cocktail bars, independent boutiques, and some of the best dining in the city. Once a red-light district, it’s now a favorite among creatives and night owls looking for something a little less polished but full of personality.

For something quieter and more residential, Østerbro is a solid pick. This leafy, upscale area is great for families or travelers who want a calmer vibe without being too far from the action. You’ll find parks, local cafes, and fewer tourists, which can be a nice breather after a busy day out.

Then there’s Islands Brygge, right along the harbor. It’s a relaxed, waterfront neighborhood that’s grown in popularity thanks to its modern apartments, scenic views, and popular swimming spots in the summer. It’s perfect if you’re into slower mornings, waterside walks, and still want quick metro access to the city center.

I’ve hi-lighted the four main areas in the map above. You should know that there are also many residential neighborhoods of Copenhagen such as Frederiksberg, Amager, and Amagerbro. However for first-time visitors, I’d suggest sticking to the four areas mentioned above.

Best Areas to Stay in Copenhagen: Indre By

If you’re in Copenhagen for a long weekend and want to pack things in, then where better to base yourself than in the heart of the city’s historic center? Hotels here might be sliiiightly pricier but hey, time is money. And in terms of location, Indre By is the place to be. I spent three full nights in 25hours Hotel Indre By and absolutely loved it!

Surrounded by lakes and historic ramparts, Indre By was once the full extent of Copenhagen, before globalization and expansion saw the city sprawl beyond these limits.

Indre By is home to historic highlights and tourist attractions like the Danish Parliament at Christiansborg Palace and the Danish crown jewels, which are on display in the royal residence of Rosenborg Castle.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Indre By

• 25hours Hotel Indre By (Indre By) – Where I stayed during my trip to Copenhagen! Bold, artsy, and full of personality, this hotel is a playground of color and creativity, perfect for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of it all and don’t mind a little eccentric flair.
• Hotel Danmark (Indre By) – A chic and centrally located boutique hotel with minimalist Scandi interiors and a cozy rooftop bar, great for travelers wanting stylish comfort just steps from Tivoli Gardens and the National Museum.
• Manon les Suites Copenhagen (Indre By) – Probably the most Instagrammed hotel in the city, with jungle vibes and a photogenic indoor pool. If aesthetics are high on your list, this one’s worth a peek.
• 1 Hotel Copenhagen (Indre By) – A sustainable, design-forward hotel that brings nature indoors with calming tones and organic materials, ideal for eco-conscious travelers looking for luxury with a conscience.

Want all the juicy details? Read my full review of my bold and colorful stay at 25hours Hotel Copenhagen!

Things to do in Indre By, Copenhagen

Explore Rosenborg Castle: This 17^th century castle was built by King Christian IV and remains an important royal residence for the Danish monarchy. As well as being a beautiful Renaissance attraction in its own right, the castle is best known as the home of the Danish crown jewels, which are tucked away in the castle’s treasury and on public display.

Shop along Strøget: Strøget is the main shopping street in not just Indre By, but all of Copenhagen. Stretching all the way from City Hall Square to the plaza of Kongens Nytorv, this pedestrianized street is home to top brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton and Gucci. There’s a lovely café culture here too, and it’s well worth wandering down Strøget whether you’re looking to shop or not.

Explore Nyhavn: If you booked your Copenhagen trip after flicking through Instagram or even a vacation brochure, then you were probably looking at pictures of Nyhavn. This waterfront area in Indre By is picture postcard Copenhagen. It was once home to fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen and is now a lively social center for tourists and locals alike. There are loads of waterfront bars and restaurants, and it’s the place to board a boat tour of the city, one of the most popular things to do in Copenhagen for visitors. 

Want more ideas on what to do? Head to my blog post: A First Timer’s Guide to the Best 2-Day Itinerary in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Best Areas to Stay in Copenhagen: Vesterbro

Vesterbro has undergone something of a renaissance in recent years. Once known for its working class character and seedy red-light district, this area to the west of Copenhagen Central Station has been completely transformed over the past 20 years or so.

Today it’s got a cool, edgy feel to it, known for its boutique shops, art galleries and a buzzing nightlife scene. There are fewer typical tourist attractions in Vesterbro, but it’s a much more “real” part of the city – for younger travelers looking to let their hair down a bit, it’s one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Copenhagen.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Vesterbro

• CityHub Copenhagen (Vesterbro) – A budget-friendly, tech-savvy hotel with cozy sleeping pods and a self-service bar, perfect for solo travelers or friends who want a modern, social stay without breaking the bank.
• Go Hotel Saga (Vesterbro) – A no-frills, budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a central location near the train station, ideal for travelers who value convenience and affordability over extras.
• Moxy Copenhagen Sydhavnen (Vesterbro) – You know I love my Moxys from around the world! Trendy and playful, this Marriott-run hotel features industrial-chic design, a lively bar, and comfy rooms, great for younger travelers who like a bit of style with their stay.
• Tivoli Hotel (Vesterbro) – A family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, and a rooftop pool, perfect for those visiting Copenhagen with kids or planning to hit up Tivoli Gardens.
• NH Copenhagen Grand Joanne (Vesterbro) – A stylish boutique hotel with a vintage-meets-modern vibe, buzzing café, and rooftop terrace, great for design lovers who want to stay close to Copenhagen’s coolest restaurants and nightlife.
• Villa Copenhagen (Vesterbro) – Housed in a former post office, this luxe hotel offers elegant rooms, a stunning courtyard pool, and an emphasis on sustainability, perfect for travelers wanting a grand yet conscious experience. A standout pick when deciding where to stay in Copenhagen if you’re after both style and substance.

Things to do in Vesterbro, Copenhagen

Explore the Meatpacking District (Kodbyen): It might not have the most appealing name, but the Meatpacking District is today one of the hippest parts of Copenhagen. As you can guess, this was once an industrial area and the heart of the city’s meat industry. But today, the area’s whitewashed industrial buildings are home to chic bars and nightclubs, cutting edge restaurants and craft breweries. Whether you’re looking for a quiet morning coffee or a late night cocktail, the Meatpacking District is the undoubted highlight of Vesterbro and a great place to round off a day of exploring in Copenhagen.

Visit the Museum of Copenhagen: For a dose of culture in Vesterbro, visit the Museum of Copenhagen, which is housed in a beautifully restored former police station. The museum charts the city’s 800 year history, with exhibits including an interactive model of the city and an exhibition detailing the city’s journey from medieval fishing village to European capital. A small entry fee applies, though under 18s visit for free.

Catch a show or concert at VEGA: If you like your live music, then make sure to check what’s on at VEGA during your stay in Copenhagen. This is one of Europe’s premier live music venues. VEGA transcends any genre, with mainstream, artists ranging from David Bowie, Prince and Kylie Minogue to popular DJs like Fatboy Slim and more underground DJs and artists including Skream all having performed here. With its Danish modernist design, VEGA is a venue that really fits in with the vibe of Vesterbro, and I think it’s well worth checking out what’s on during your visit.

Curious what else to see? Don’t miss my First Timer’s Guide to the Best 2-Day Itinerary in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Best Areas to Stay in Copenhagen: Østerbro

To the north of the city center is Østerbro, which can be a perfect base in the city for those with children, or looking to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed stay in Copenhagen. Known for its wide boulevards and leafy parks, Østerbro is mostly a residential area, meaning it has none of the noise and the hubbub of Indre By and Vesterbro.

It’s also one of the city’s richest areas, with a limited number of stylish shops, boutique cafes and nice restaurants.

And thanks to great transport links and that famous cycle network, it’s easy to reach the city center.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Østerbro

• Go Hotel Østerport (Østerbro) – A budget-friendly hotel with compact, modern rooms right next to Østerport Station, perfect for travelers who want easy access to trains and a quiet, residential vibe. A great choice when considering where to stay in Copenhagen without straying too far from the city center.
• Comwell Copenhagen Portside Dolce by Wyndham (Østerbro/Nordhavn) – A sleek and sustainable hotel with contemporary design, waterfront views, and easy metro access, ideal for business travelers or visitors wanting a peaceful base outside the city center.
• Rye 115 Hotel (Østerbro) – A charming, family-run boutique hotel with cozy interiors and homemade breakfast, great for travelers looking for a warm, personal touch in a quiet Copenhagen neighborhood.
• Charlottehaven (Østerbro) – Stylish, serviced luxury apartments with Scandinavian design, a wellness center, and indoor pool. perfect for longer stays or travelers who want extra space and home-like comforts.

Things to do in Østerbro, Copenhagen

Take in the Little Mermaid: One of the top Copenhagen attractions is found in Østerbro. Unveiled in 1913, the bronze statue is located on a rock at the edge of the Langelinie promenade. It was inspired by one of Copenhagen’s most famous sons, Hans Christian Andersen and was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, founder of the Carlsberg beer brand.

The statue gets busy during the day and it’s smaller than you might think (just 1.25 meters tall), so visit early or late in the day to enjoy a quieter experience, more in keeping with a stay in Østerbro.

Other highlights of this peaceful area of the city include the city’s largest park, Fælledparken, and the small city beach of Svanemøllen, a great place to enjoy Copenhagen’s short summer.

Looking for a full game plan? My First Timer’s 2-Day Itinerary in Copenhagen has you covered.

Best Areas to Stay in Copenhagen: Islands Brygge

Islands Brygge is a popular waterfront neighborhood on the eastern edge of central Copenhagen, located directly across the harbour from Vesterbro and south of Indre By.

Similarly to Vesterbro, this former industrial heartland is now a popular residential area, though Brygge is generally regarded as a bit more glamorous!

It’s known particularly for the Harbour Baths, a public lido open to all ages. If you’re thinking about where to stay in Copenhagen, Islands Brygge is a great option for those who want to be right on the coast. Just keep in mind it’s one of the busiest parts of the city in the summer (or whenever the sun decides to shine).

Like most of Copenhagen’s districts, its easy to reach the city center via public transport, with several road and pedestrian bridges linking Brygge to the rest of the city. Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District is easily reached directly across the water.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Islands Brygge

• Hotel Copenhagen (Islands Brygge) – A simple, budget-friendly stay with basic amenities and a convenient location near Christianshavn—ideal for travelers who just need a clean, no-fuss place to crash. A solid pick if you’re figuring out where to stay in Copenhagen without breaking the bank.
• Bryggen Guldsmeden (Islands Brygge) – A cozy, eco-conscious boutique hotel with Balinese-inspired décor and a focus on sustainability, perfect for travelers who appreciate charm, wellness, and a relaxed vibe.
• NH Collection Copenhagen (Islands Brygge) – A sleek, upscale hotel with waterfront views and modern Scandinavian design, ideal for first-time visitors who want stylish comfort within walking distance of the city’s top sights.

Things to do in Islands Brygge, Copenhagen

Swim at the Islands Brygge Harbour Baths: Since opening in 2003, the Harbour Baths have become a top Copenhagen attraction, allowing locals and visitors alike to swim and socialize. There are five separate pools, including two for children. Diving is permitted in some areas and a diving board is provided, and life guards are present in the summer months.

The baths use actual harbour water; Copenhagen authorities have spent decades clearing up the harbour and the water is tested regularly to ensure it is safe for swimmers. The baths are free to use and open year-round, in case you fancy a freezing winter dip!

If you’re staying nearby in Islands Brygge (or still deciding where to stay in Copenhagen) this area offers scenic waterfront views and easy access to the baths!

Need help planning more of your trip? Check out my 2-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen with Family

I’ve given you some ideas for where to stay in Copenhagen – Indre By is the city’s central district and close to the main attractions, whilst Vesterbro is a great option for those looking to soak up the city’s nightlife. But what about young families?

Generally, Copenhagen is a really family-friendly city, one of the safest in Europe and known for its wide pavements, low crime and clean environment. But some parts of the city are more suitable for families with young children than others. 

If you’re planning a trip and trying to decide where to stay in Copenhagen with family, consider a stay in Østerbro. It’s a quiet, upscale part of the city, dominated by the large Fælledparken park. This can be a great place to visit with children, thanks to its numerous playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants.

The leafy suburb of Frederiksberg is another of the best neighborhoods to stay in Copenhagen with family; it’s home to the city zoo and lots of green space, and it maintains easy transport links to the city center.

And Indre By itself can also appeal to families. Sure, it’s a little busier than other areas, but it’s close to the city’s main attractions meaning less traveling, and it’s not difficult to find family rooms in the city’s main hotels.

Plus, the Tivoli Gardens make for a great family day out and the National Museum has an excellent children’s section too.

Where NOT to stay in Copenhagen

As you’ve probably gathered, you can’t really go wrong in Copenhagen – the city is safe and clean, and compact enough to navigate easily. That said, there are a few places that you may want to avoid. And deciding where NOT to stay in Copenhagen can be as important as deciding where to stay in Copenhagen.

Although you might find cheaper accommodation in far-out suburbs like Amager Vest, Brønshøj and Nordvest, these districts are more residential and transport options are a little trickier. For first-time visitors, you may want to avoid these areas, though they can be a great base for returning travelers less interested in ticking off the main tourist attractions of the city center.

The semi-autonomous, anarchist community of Christiania is also one to avoid, especially for families traveling with children. It makes for a unique day trip, but accommodation is lacking here and the bohemian, rebellious character of the place won’t be to everyone’s taste. When considering where to stay in Copenhagen, you’re better off choosing neighborhoods with more lodging options and broader appeal.

And a word of warning about Vesterbro – although it has undergone significant gentrification and renovation, traces of this district’s rougher past can still be found late at night. Families should avoid the area, especially around the old red light district, which is adjacent to the central station. But if you’re after a few drinks and a fun evening, it’s still a top pick!

Best Areas to Stay in Copenhagen: Final Thoughts

Welp, and there you have it! Copenhagen’s small size and safe, walkable streets make it super easy to explore, but picking the right neighborhood and where to stay in Copenhagen matters!

Indre By is the classic choice for first-time visitors, putting you right in the middle of the action 💥Vesterbro brings the cool, nightlife-y energy 😎
Østerbro is calm and family-friendly 🍃
And lastly, Islands Brygge offers a laid-back, waterfront vibe that’s perfect for a slower pace ⛵️

No matter where you stay in Copenhagen, the city’s top-notch public transport makes it easy to get around! And yes, that includes hopping between alllllll the delicious bakeries serving flaky Danish pastries and cardamom buns 🤤

Visiting other parts of Denmark?

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