Discover the Culinary Charm of Copenhagen

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Advisor - MaryAlexa Divver
Curated By

MaryAlexa Divver

  • Arts & Culture

  • Solo Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Copenhagen

  • Denmark

  • Outdoors

  • Local Food

  • Architecture

The colourful houses of Nyhavn.
Curator’s statement

Copenhagen, a city where fairy tales blend seamlessly with cutting-edge design and culinary innovation, inviting travelers to explore its enchanting streets and waterways. This capital city offers a blend of luxury, culinary delights and cultural experiences, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical. Whether you're indulging in the comfort of high-end accommodations, exploring the flavors of renowned kitchens or soaking in the city's rich history and design, Copenhagen promises an unforgettable journey.

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Where to stay in Copenhagen

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Things to do in Copenhagen

A view of a canal surrounded by a bridge with a metal fence, green trees, buildings in the background and a large tower with a patina'd exterior.

Nyhavn: This historic waterfront district tells tales of seafarers and explorers, set against a canvas of brightly colored townhouses that reflect in the canal's waters, creating a vibrant and picturesque scene.

The Little Mermaid: Perched gracefully on a rock by the shore, this iconic statue embodies the spirit of Danish folklore, offering a moment of tranquility and reflection amid the city's dynamic rhythm.

Design Museum: Celebrate the genius of Danish design within this sanctuary, where innovation meets elegance, showcasing a fusion of form, function and aesthetic beauty across eras.

Tivoli Gardens: A magical escape in the heart of Copenhagen, Tivoli enchants with its blend of thrilling rides, blooming gardens and cultural performances, embodying Danish culture's joyful essence.

Freetown Christiania: Venture into the heart of Copenhagen's counter-culture, where art, architecture and a sense of community thrive in an autonomous haven of creativity and freedom.

The Round Tower: Ascend the unique helical corridor of this 17th-century observatory, unraveling the city's history with each step until the skyline unfolds in a breathtaking panorama at the summit.

The National Museum of Denmark: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Danish history, from the age of Vikings to contemporary times, in a museum that chronicles the nation's cultural heritage.

Rosenborg Castle: Step into the pages of history at this majestic castle, where the splendor of Danish royalty is preserved through exquisite artifacts and the shimmering treasures of the Crown Jewels.

The Copenhagen Botanical Garden: Lose yourself in the serene beauty of nature, exploring a diverse realm of flora housed in historic greenhouses and sprawling gardens, a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.

Places to eat & drink in Copenhagen

A wooden bench with four white dishes complete with coffee, tea and two pastries.

Bakeries

Darcy's Kaffe: Famous for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional coffee, Darcy's Kaffe also offers a selection of homemade cakes and pastries that are perfect for a sweet treat.

Cadence: This bakery stands out for its sourdough bread and inventive pastries. Their commitment to quality ingredients and artisanal methods make every visit a delight.

Lagkagehuset: A well-known chain across Denmark, Lagkagehuset offers a wide range of bread, cakes, and pastries. Known for quality and consistency, it's a reliable spot for delicious baked goods.

Juno the Bakery: Famous for its cardamom buns, Juno offers artisanal pastries and bread made with organic flour. It's a favorite among locals and visitors for a reason.

Hart Bageri: In collaboration with the renowned Noma, Hart Bageri focuses on quality ingredients to produce exceptional sourdough bread and pastries, making it a must-visit for bread lovers.

Lunch & Dinner

Grød (multiple locations): Revolutionizing the humble porridge, Grød elevates this simple dish into a culinary delight, showcasing the versatility and richness of grains through a palette of flavors, both sweet and savory, that comfort and surprise.

Ramen to Bíiru (Vesterbro): Blending the best of Japanese tradition with Danish coziness, this ramen spot offers a soul-warming bowl of noodles and broth, where each sip and bite transports you straight to the streets of Tokyo.

Pico (multiple locations): A tiny haven for pizza lovers, Pico serves up big flavors on small plates, offering a creative twist on classic pizzas with gourmet toppings and perfect crusts, all in a cozy, casual setting that feels like a hidden gem. Go for the Pico Trio to get a taste of three pizzas in one sitting.

Mes (Østerbro): Mes captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, serving dishes that are rich in flavor and history. The warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with a menu that's both authentic and innovative, makes for a memorable dining experience. Go for the tasting menu to avoid decision paralysis.

Kødbyens Fiskebar (Meatpacking District): Nestled in the heart of the Meatpacking District, this seafood bar delights with its fresh, oceanic bounty. The industrial chic décor complements the maritime menu, creating an ambiance that's as cool and refreshing as the Nordic sea. Get started with some oysters and the baby gem salad followed by some fresh fish, like the hake, or a more nostalgic dish of fish and chips.

Pluto (City Center): A bustling atmosphere and a menu full of surprises await at Pluto, where shared plates encourage a communal dining experience. They offer a 10 dish family style menu with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a vibe that is always lively, making it a perfect spot for an evening out with friends. I can vouch for the aracini, baba ganoush, tatar, baby gem salad and cassoulet.

Levi (Vesterbro): Embracing the essence of Danish cuisine with a focus on simplicity and sustainability, Levi is a gem in the bustling neighborhood of Vesterbro. This cozy eatery serves dishes that are both honest and inventive, emphasizing the natural flavors of high-quality, organic ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a casual dining experience, where the menu offers something for every palate.

The Pescatarian (Christianshavn): Specializing in seafood, The Pescatarian is a haven for those who appreciate the ocean's bounty. The menu, focusing on sustainability and freshness, showcases the best of the sea in dishes that are both inventive and delicious.

Marv & Ben (City Center): This modern bistro intertwines Danish culinary heritage with innovative gastronomy, creating dishes that are both familiar and novel, served in an atmosphere that's as warm and inviting as a friend's dining room.

Restaurant Lola (Christianshavn): At Lola, the menu is a vibrant mosaic of global cuisines, specifically Latin-America, India and South-East Asia, and each dish tells a story of the distant lands brought close through sustainable and organic ingredients, served in a lively and eclectic setting of a house on the water. The artwork across their branding is one of my recent favorites.

Restaurant Barr (Christianshavn): Here, traditional Nordic meets the craft of beer brewing. Barr's cozy, wood-lined interior invites diners to indulge in hearty, beer-infused dishes that echo the culinary history and beer culture of the region. I recommend ordering as a group and sharing across the menu. I can personally vouch for the bone marrow, beet salad, pork chop, cod tail, potatoes and, of course, the bread and butter.

Formel B (1 Michelin star in 2023, Frederiksberg): A beacon of French-inspired cuisine with a Nordic twist, Formel B offers a refined yet adventurous dining experience. The menu showcases a commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients, with the flexibility to change according to the season's best offerings. The restaurant's elegant setting and extensive wine selection complement the exquisite dishes perfectly.

Kiin Kiin (1 Michelin star in 2023, Nørrebro): Kiin Kiin stands as Copenhagen's ode to Thai cuisine, where traditional flavors meet avant-garde presentation. The restaurant's Michelin star shines bright, reflecting its commitment to excellence and the art of fine dining.

Noma (3 Michelin stars in 2023, Refshaleøen): A trailblazer in culinary arts, Noma crafts extraordinary experiences that go beyond dining, engaging all senses in a symphony of flavor and innovation. Each dish is a testament to the team's deep connection with nature and Danish culinary traditions. Reservations are made in seasons in order to keep the maintain fresh ingredients for every seating. I've experienced the ocean seasons and they truly push the bounds of what is possible.

Drinks

Ruby: Nestled in an old townhouse in the heart of Copenhagen, Ruby exudes sophistication and charm, offering an intimate atmosphere for enjoying meticulously crafted cocktails. Its interior, blending vintage and contemporary design elements, sets the perfect stage for a night of elegance and relaxation, making it a must-visit for those seeking a premier cocktail experience in the city.

Nebbiolo Winebar: A cozy retreat for wine lovers, Nebbiolo Winebar welcomes guests with its warm, rustic ambiance and an extensive selection of wines. Here, enthusiasts can explore a world of flavors, guided by knowledgeable staff, in an environment that feels like a hidden gem in Copenhagen's bustling scene. By knowledgeable staff, I mean no menu. You explain what you like, and they bring you something that matches.

Lidkoeb: Spread across three floors of a historic apothecary, Lidkoeb specializes in craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. Each level offers a unique vibe, from intimate seating to a lively whisky bar, providing a perfect setting for an evening of sophisticated sipping.

Vespa Vinbar: Vespa Vinbar is a haven for wine enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of Italian wines in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for those looking to unwind with a glass of wine, accompanied by small, savory bites in a setting that feels like a cozy Italian enoteca.

Advisor - MaryAlexa Divver

Travel Advisor

MaryAlexa Divver

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Maggie Pecorino's guide, The First Timer’s Guide to Copenhagen .

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Copenhagen.