Forget hotels that could be literally anywhere—these ones have character, charm, and beds you’ll actually want to stay in (for more than just sleeping). When it comes to food, yes, you’ll get a taste of proper Nordic cuisine—but also a few unexpected, delicious detours. Think cozy, inventive, and just the right amount of indulgent. Add in some soul-soothing spas and under-the-radar museums that surprise you in the best way. This is the Copenhagen edit you didn’t know you needed. No clichés. Just places that actually deserve your time.
Copenhagen,
But Make It Worth It
Hotels
Hôtel d'Angleterre (5★)
Indisputably the most luxurious hotel in the city, perfectly located in the heart of Copenhagen, with a magnificent spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and truly impeccable service.
Fun fact: it appears in Torn Curtain by Alfred Hitchcock, where the director makes a cameo in the hotel lobby.
Nimb Hotel (5★)
Located inside Tivoli Gardens, the palace was built in 1909 and features a distinctive Moorish architectural style. There’s a genuinely great spa and an exceptional bar with a curated selection of caviar and champagne.
Plus: complimentary access to Europe’s oldest amusement park is included with your stay.
1 Hotel Copenhagen (5★)
A recent opening in Copenhagen focuses on nature-inspired design and relaxed luxury in a central location.
FYI: one of the suites comes with a private in-room sauna, a very good idea for a date.
Villa Copenhagen (5★)
A chic getaway in a former post office, with a heated rooftop pool, located behind the central train station.
Hotel Sanders (5★)
A small boutique hotel where Scandinavian style mixed with a colonial touch defines the interiors, warm and cozy throughout. Just a few steps from the main square.
Plus: one of Denmark’s top cocktail bars, Tata, is inside the hotel and well worth a visit.
Radisson Collection Royal Hotel (5★)
A Danish design icon by Arne Jacobsen, blending mid-century style with modern comfort—plus breathtaking city views from Copenhagen’s first skyscraper.
FYI: only one room (606) still holds the original Jacobsen furniture — it’s display-only and not available for booking..
Hotel Bella Grande (5★)
A luxury boutique hotel near one of the main squares, with elegant rooms, an Italian-inspired courtyard, and a nice restaurant.
Nobis Hotel (5★)
A masterpiece of Scandinavian minimalism set in a historic former music conservatory, offering sleek design and a prime location for exploring Copenhagen’s cultural heart
Restaurants
Upscale Dinners: Impress Me & Yourself
Evenings designed to unfold slowly, with tasting menus, fine wine pairings, and the glow of Michelin recognition.
Alouette 1★ Michelin
Modern Nordic tasting menu with wood-fired flavors and a sustainable edge.
Udtryk 1★ Michelin
New opening in Copenhagen, shaped by the chef’s life spent in kitchens around the world.
Koan 2★ Michelin
Inventive mix of Nordic methods and Asian tastes.
AOC 2★ Michelin
Seasonal European tasting menu with a focus on flavor and texture.
Kadeau 2★ Michelin
Nordic tasting menu inspired by wild ingredients from Denmark.
Geranium 3★ Michelin
Scandinavian tasting menu featuring seafood and plant-based dishes.
Jordnær 3★ Michelin
Nordic cuisine focused on seafood and seasonal ingredients.
The real challenge:
Noma (no explanation needed)
I’ve been several times, so if you want real advice on how and when to book, I’ve got you. As you probably know, reservations here open on specific release dates and it’s extremely difficult to secure a table. With a bit of flexibility and a few insider tricks, I can also help with a last-minute booking.
My favorite time to go is Game & Forest Season. I can guide you through the story of the restaurant and the chef, and past clients have genuinely loved having me explain the experience as the dinner unfolds.
Slow Stays Just Outside Copenhagen
Kokkedal Slot (5★)
A historic castle-hotel set in beautiful parkland north of Copenhagen, blending heritage charm with modern luxury, a spa and golf course. 30 minutes north of Copenhagen.
Kurhotel Skodsborg (5★)
Historic seaside spa hotel north of the city, focused on wellness, sea air, and serious treatments. About 25 minutes from Copenhagen.
Park Lane (5★)
A discreet luxury stay by the sea in Hellerup, polished and calm, perfect for slowing down. Around 15 minutes from central Copenhagen.
Dragsholm Slot (4★)
A countryside castle surrounded by nature, known for its Michelin-starred dining and peaceful setting. About 1.5 hours from Copenhagen.
Seafood Obsessions: My True Passion
Oysters, mussels, grilled fish, raw fish—if it swims, I probably want it on my plate.
Fishmarket
If you love oysters like I do, this Parisian-style seafood bar delivers—fresh fish, chilled champagne, and a lively central-Copenhagen buzz.
Kødbyens Fiskebar
Simply my favorite seafood spot in the city, right in the Meatpacking District.
The Pescatarian
Seafood-focused menu with sustainable fish and fresh vegetables.
Krogs Fiskerestaurant
Classic Danish seafood served in an elegant, historic setting since 1910.
Bonus:
Nimb Bar
Ideal for a quick caviar bump before the night takes off.
Effortless Indulgence: Fuss-Free Gourmet
The sweet spot between everyday ease and a little culinary magic.
Levi
Contemporary European cuisine rooted in simplicity, with exceptional ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere.
Formel B
Modern European cuisine with a creative and ever-changing à la carte menu.
Radio
Seasonal Nordic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Barr
Nordic and German-inspired dishes with a focus on comfort food.
Bistro Boheme
French-inspired cooking, led by chef Thøstesen, who trained under Paul Bocuse.
Bonus for the summer:
Babylon
Inventive bistro, good natural wines, and in summer it really shines with outdoor dining by the water.
Hearty Danish Traditions: Lunch the Local Way
Smørrebrød, snaps, and plenty of pork.
Restaurant Schønnemann
Old-school legend where herring, liver pâté, and aquavit never go out of style.
Selma
Smørrebrød with a twist: lighter, playful, and paired with craft beers instead of grandma’s snaps.
Told & Snaps
In the heart of Nyhavn, smørrebrød classics and crisp schnapps served with a view of the canal.
Frank Kro’s
Classic kro cooking—crispy pork belly, potatoes swimming in gravy, and a dining room full of locals.
Japanese Flavors: Hidden Gems
My soft spot? Japanese food. Luckily, Copenhagen keeps the cravings in check.
Sushi Anaba
Intimate omakase experience featuring carefully crafted sushi.
Kappo Andō
Seasonal Japanese dishes served at a chef’s counter.
PoshJah
Modern Japanese cuisine with sushi and inventive small plates.