Copenhagen is the Scandinavian capital where every street looks like something out of a postcard. In 2025, it will once again be one of Europe’s must-visit destinations. With its cosy cafés and trendy yet relaxed lifestyle, it has everything to seduce travellers in search of new discoveries.
But to really savour the city’s unique atmosphere, you need to choose the right district! Whether you’re a history buff, a culture buff, looking for a good address or just looking for some peace and quiet, Copenhagen is full of neighbourhoods with different vibes.
So where can you put down your suitcases for the weekend? We’ll guide you through the best places to stay for a successful weekend!
1. Indre By – The historic heart of Copenhagen
Located right in the centre of the city, it is home to some of the most authentic places in the Danish capital: from narrow streets full of history to must-see monuments, legendary boutiques and classic restaurants.
As soon as you set foot in the Indre By, you’ll be immersed in a unique atmosphere where modernity and the old days live side by side. Between a stroll along the famous Nyhavn, a shopping stop on Strøget and a magical escapade at Tivoli Gardens, every corner of the city centre reveals a part of Danish history and way of life.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Strøget: A large pedestrian street, a real paradise for shopaholics, from luxury boutiques to Danish concept stores.
- Nyhavn: The colourful houses lining the canal are the perfect spot for a terrace break or a romantic stroll.
- Tivoli Gardens: More than just an amusement park, this is an iconic, poetic and old-fashioned place where the magic happens as soon as the sun goes down.
🎯 Who’s it for? Indre By is for those on a comfortable budget who want to have everything at their fingertips: culture lovers and travellers looking for a complete experience without straying too far from the beating heart of the city.
2. Vesterbro – The former working-class district turned bohemian chic
Once a working-class, industrial district, it has evolved into one of Copenhagen’s trendiest spots. Today, it’s a haven for creative people, gourmets and nightlife enthusiasts. Here, the atmosphere is vibrant and the gastronomic offerings are extensive. If you like places with a strong identity, you’ll love wandering around Kødbyen (Meatpacking District), where the old slaughterhouses have given way to unique bars, restaurants and art galleries.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Kødbyen (Meatpacking District): A concentration of everything that’s trendy in Copenhagen: trendy restaurants, exhibitions, lively bars…
- Bars and clubs: If you’re looking to extend your evenings, Vesterbro is full of places where music and cocktails go hand in hand.
- Designer boutiques and trendy cafés: from Scandinavian fashions to stylish thrift shops and minimalist coffee shops, everything is designed to appeal to enthusiasts.
🎯 Who’s it for? This district is perfect for travellers looking for a young, dynamic and festive atmosphere.
3. Nørrebro – Copenhagen’s multicultural soul
If you like a neighbourhood with a strong sense of history, Nørrebro is the place for you! Here you’ll find lots of independent cafés, street art and vintage shops. It’s the city’s most multicultural and alternative district. It’s home to students, artists and locals looking for a good, authentic place to live.
Away from the tourist trade, Nørrebro vibrates to the rhythm of unbridled creativity. Stop off for a cup of organic coffee, pick up a unique piece in a local craft shop… In short, it’s the perfect spot for those who like to be surprised.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Assistens Kirkegård: Much more than just a cemetery, this is a real park where great figures such as Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard are laid to rest. It’s a place of calm and history, ideal for a stroll. To discover all its secrets and fascinating anecdotes, our guided tour in French will immerse you in the history of this extraordinary place. Book here 👉 Assistens Kirkegård guided tour
- Jægersborggade: A charming street full of minimalist coffee shops, restaurants offering the “social dining” concept (large dishes to share with your neighbours), a traditional patissier, small art galleries, a ceramist, a jeweller offering works made from recycled objects…
🎯 Who’s it for? If you like bohemian atmospheres, neighbourhoods teeming with small boutiques and a resolutely authentic, relaxed atmosphere, Nørrebro is a must for an affordable budget.
4. Østerbro – A chic, green district
For a quieter stay, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, head for Østerbro, a chic, family-friendly district where you can enjoy large green spaces, cosy cafés and a peaceful atmosphere. Here, everything has been designed with your well-being in mind: wide streets, large parks, lakes where you can stroll with a pram…
If you’re travelling with your family, or if you like a fine Haussmann-style neighbourhood, this is the area for you. You’ll come across locals jogging along the water, families having lunch in the parks and trendy boutiques.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Fælledparken, a vast green space where you can skateboard in Northern Europe’s largest skatepark, with three courses of varying levels. Fælledparken is also home to a unique playground (Tårnlegepladsen), where children can play amongst wooden replicas of Copenhagen’s iconic towers. Ideal for picnics, running or simply enjoying a moment of relaxation in the heart of the city. To find out more, read our article on playgrounds.
- The Little Mermaid: Copenhagen’s icon, a statue inspired by Andersen’s fairy tale. Prefer a visit by bike, as the “big lady” is a little out of the way.
- Juno, the Bakery: One of the best bakeries in Copenhagen
🎯 Who’s it for? Perfect for families, nature lovers and those looking for an elegant, relaxing area close to the centre.
5. Christianshavn – bohemian and harbour ambience
If Copenhagen had a hint of Amsterdam about it, Christianshavn (literally, “Christian’s Port”) would be the place to be. This district, criss-crossed by canals and lined with charming, colourful houses, has a peaceful, romantic atmosphere. Yet behind this apparent tranquillity, Christianshavn also hides one of the capital’s most unusual and fascinating places: the hippy community of Christiania.
Take a stroll through Christianshavn and you’ll discover a subtle blend of maritime influences and alternative culture. It’s also one of the best places to enjoy a good meal (book well in advance), with many gourmet addresses such as Restaurant Nr. 2, Restaurant Kanalen, or Lola – or more modest cafés such as Café Wilder, or Christianshavn Færgecafé for a more traditional experience. For a snack by the water, check out the informal Christianshavn Boat Rental or Café Oven Vande.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Christiania: “The Free State”, created in the 70s on former military land. Psychedelic murals, houses built from bricks and mortar, a bohemian atmosphere… A unique place that intrigues as much as it fascinates. To understand its history, values and workings, our guided tour in French takes you into the world of this extraordinary community. Book here 👉 Guided tour Christiania
- Church of Notre-Sauveur: Its spiral staircase offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Copenhagen. A steep but unforgettable climb! In high season, don’t forget to book your climb (online).
🎯 Who’s it for? Lovers of unusual discoveries.
6. Frederiksberg – Elegance and nature in the heart of the capital
Frederiksberg is a very special part of Copenhagen. Often perceived as the most chic district, the atmosphere here is peaceful and refined, with wide tree-lined avenues, elegant buildings and an incomparable gentle pace of life.
Far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Frederiksberg is a haven for Danish families and expatriates looking for a more tranquil lifestyle, while remaining close to the city’s attractions. The district also has many attractive green spaces where you can enjoy a walk, a picnic or simply a moment of relaxation.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Frederiksberg Gardens: Perfect for a romantic stroll or a relaxing moment with the family. This park, with its winding paths, small lakes and charming bridges, is a peaceful space in the heart of the city.
- Copenhagen Zoo: Ideal for families, this historic zoo is one of the oldest in Europe. It houses an elephant house designed by architect Norman Foster and offers an immersive experience with animals from all over the world.
- Værnedamsvej: family-friendly, warm and relaxed, with a touch of French elegance. Værnedamsvej is a lively, friendly little shopping street.
🎯 Who’s it for? Lovers of beautiful neighbourhoods, families and those looking for a bubble of serenity in Copenhagen. An affluent neighbourhood where you can take the time to enjoy every moment.
7. Amager – the island with a unique identity
If you think you’ve seen everything Copenhagen has to offer, a visit to Amager will prove you wrong. This fast-developing district combines nature and modernity.
Once considered a sleepy suburb of Copenhagen, Amager is now a dynamic and attractive place. It attracts families as well as water sports enthusiasts and lovers of contemporary architecture, particularly the work of Ørestad-based architects BIG.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Amager Strandpark: A 4.6 km long artificial beach where you can swim, paddle or simply relax facing the sea. The perfect place for a refreshing break after a day of sightseeing (easily accessible by Metro Øresund or Amager Strand).
- DR Koncerthuset: This spectacular concert hall, designed by architect Jean Nouvel, is a true architectural gem. Fans of classical and contemporary music will find exceptional performances in a unique setting.
- Ismageriet: Copenhagen’s hottest ice cream parlour, offering Italian-style ice creams in over 30 flavours, including typical Nordic berries such as sea buckthorn.
Do you like hiking? Then take the Amarmino – the hiking trail through the Amager Nature Park. The Amarmino is a beautiful 24km hiking trail. You can start at Dragør in the south and walk as far north as DR Byen.
🎯 Who’s it for? Travellers looking to relax by the sea, lovers of wide open spaces and those who want to discover a more modern facet of Copenhagen.
🏗️ Passionate about architecture? Discover the eco-neighbourhoods, futuristic buildings and sustainable projects that are shaping Copenhagen at our Architecture & Sustainable Urban Development Days. 👉 Book here: Architecture & Sustainable Urban Development Day
8. Islands Brygge – The perfect balance between town and nature
Looking for a great place to visit by the water, yet close to the centre? Islands Brygge is the perfect place. Once an industrial area, this neighbourhood has been transformed into a trendy and peaceful place to live, with green spaces, cosy cafés and perfect spots for a break by the harbour.
Here, locals take advantage of the long summer days to swim in the famous bathing harbour, picnic on the waterside lawns and admire the sunsets over the city skyline. A real haven of relaxation for lovers of slow living!
👉 Not to be missed:
- Islands Brygge bathing harbour: One of the locals’ favourite spots for a swim right in the heart of the town. In summer, the atmosphere is electric, with young people diving and families basking in the sun.
- Walks along the seafront: an ideal setting for a stroll, a morning jog or a romantic picnic by the water.
- The many cafés and restaurants along the canal: Islands Brygge is a veritable paradise for lovers of brunch and modern Nordic cuisine, with cosy, gourmet addresses.
🎯 Who’s it for? Active travellers, families and those who like to enjoy the waterfront in a relaxed atmosphere.
9. The Copenhagen area
If you want to enjoy Copenhagen while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the city centre, the area surrounding the city offers ideal alternatives. Hellerup (to the north) and Kastrup (to the south) are two perfect options for a more peaceful stay, without being cut off from the hustle and bustle of the capital.
👉 Not to be missed:
- Hellerup: A residential district, Hellerup has a lot to offer in terms of quiet beaches, elegant boutiques and a great atmosphere. Stroll along the seafront promenade, discover exclusive restaurants and enjoy a unique setting just a few minutes from the town centre.
- Kastrup: Ideal for a convenient and comfortable stay, Kastrup offers immediate proximity to the airport and quick access to the centre of Copenhagen. The must-see? The Danish National Aquarium, one of the most impressive in Europe, where you can see sharks, otters and rays in a fascinating architectural setting.
🎯 Who’s it for? Travellers looking for peace and comfort, and those who want to stay connected to the city while enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere.
10. Discover Copenhagen and the surrounding area with unique guided tours
To discover a little more about Copenhagen and the surrounding area, let yourself be seduced by the personalised guided tours we offer at NORDIC INSITE. Thanks to our passionate guides, you can discover unique aspects of the Danish capital.
If you want to delve deeper into Copenhagen’s history, culture and architecture, we recommend some of our top tours:
- Historical landmarks📚 : A 3-hour walk to discover Copenhagen’s history and must-see sites, from the origins of Denmark to contemporary issues.
- Sustainable Copenhagen by bike: Enjoy one of Europe’s greenest capital cities by bike! Discover the city’s sustainable architecture and innovative facilities by bike for 3 hours.
- Gourmet stroll😋 : An immersion in local flavours, from Torvehallerne to Nørrebro, for a culinary discovery that will delight your taste buds.
- Christianshavn and Christiania: Explore the history and unique atmosphere of these alternative districts, where creativity and idealism meet.
- Visit to the Glyptothèque: If you’re passionate about art, don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the city’s finest museums.
And for an experience a little further from the city, we offer excursions from Copenhagen:
- Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: Just 45 minutes from Copenhagen, immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most famous museums.
- Discover the deer park🦌 : Perfect for a half-day in the heart of nature, 15 km from the capital.
- Kronborg Castle: Explore this iconic Renaissance castle, made famous by Shakespeare.
👉 For a full list of our tours and to book your experience, visit our website: Guided tours in French in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a city where each district has its own character, and where modernity meets nature.
Whether you’re looking for culture in the historic centre of Indre By, or want to immerse yourself in the community of Christiania, every corner of the Danish capital has something to offer.
The area around Copenhagen, with places like Hellerup and Kastrup, also offers a quieter alternative, but just as attractive for travellers looking for relaxation, while remaining close to the city.
Finally, to enrich your experience, our guided tours in English will allow you to discover hidden facets of the city, from its bohemian districts and historic monuments to its sustainable projects and culinary art. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Copenhagen in a different light, in the company of our expert guides.
