Øksnehallen
A vast former cattle hall turned industrial-chic exhibition venue, Øksnehallen anchors Vesterbro’s cultural scene with big-scale fairs, art shows and conferences.
Øksnehallen is a vast, historic exhibition hall in Copenhagen’s Vesterbro district, just off Halmtorvet and on the edge of the former Meatpacking District. Built in the early 1900s as a cattle hall and now part of DGI Byen, its more than 5,000–5,500 m² of open floor, cast-iron columns and tall roof lights host everything from design fairs and conferences to photo exhibitions and food markets. The raw industrial character, central location and flexible layout make it one of the city’s signature indoor event venues.
A brief summary to Øksnehallen
- Halmtorvet 11, Copenhagen, København V, 1700, DK
- +4533298000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the event programme in advance; Øksnehallen is only accessible during fairs, exhibitions or conferences and there is no permanent general-entry exhibition.
- Allow extra time to explore the surrounding Meatpacking District and Halmtorvet, where you will find plenty of cafés, bars and casual dining options.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the hall covers more than 5,000 square metres, and large fairs or markets can involve a lot of walking and standing.
- For photography, visit earlier in the day when natural light from the roof windows is softer and crowds at many events are typically thinner.
- If you need quiet, look for seating or breakout spots towards the edges of the hall rather than in the central aisles where foot traffic concentrates.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and short walk from Copenhagen Central Station
From anywhere in the Greater Copenhagen rail network, take an S-train or regional train to Copenhagen Central Station. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and standard single tickets within the city typically cost around 24–36 DKK depending on zones. From the station it is an easy, mostly level 5–10 minute walk suitable for wheeled luggage and strollers to reach Øksnehallen in the DGI Byen area.
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City bus to Halmtorvet and Vesterbro
Several city bus lines serve the streets around Halmtorvet and Vesterbro, with journey times of roughly 10–25 minutes from inner districts depending on traffic. A single bus ticket within central zones generally costs about 24–36 DKK and can be bought via ticket machines or transport apps. Buses stop a short walk from Øksnehallen on fairly even pavements, though they may be crowded at rush hour.
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Bicycle from central Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s dense cycling network makes it straightforward to reach Øksnehallen by bike from most central neighbourhoods in about 10–20 minutes. You can use a personal bicycle or rent one from bike-share schemes or shops, where typical rental prices start from around 75–120 DKK per day. The approach uses standard city cycle lanes and gentle gradients, but be prepared for busy junctions during peak commuting times.
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Taxi or rideshare within the city
Taxis and licensed rideshare services operate widely in Copenhagen and offer a direct option to Øksnehallen from hotels or business districts. Travel time from central areas is usually 5–15 minutes, longer in heavy traffic. Fares within the city centre commonly range from about 80–200 DKK depending on distance and time of day, and drop-off is possible close to the main entrance, convenient for those with limited mobility.
Øksnehallen location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Øksnehallen
From cattle hall to cultural powerhouse
Standing on Halmtorvet, Øksnehallen is a striking reminder of Copenhagen’s industrial age. The hall was completed in the early 1900s as part of the city’s meat market complex, purpose-built to stable hundreds of head of slaughter cattle brought in from the countryside. Long, brick façades, high arched windows and a robust steel roof structure were engineered for function rather than show, yet more than a century later they lend the building a strong, dignified presence. Inside, the conversion from livestock hall to cultural venue has respected much of the original fabric. The floor is broad and uninterrupted, punctuated by sturdy columns that once framed cattle pens. Overhead, large roof lights spill natural daylight into the space, softening what could otherwise be an austere industrial interior. The result feels both monumental and surprisingly approachable.A flexible stage for Copenhagen’s big events
Today Øksnehallen is one of Copenhagen’s largest single-room venues, offering over 5,000 square metres of column-lined floor for events. Organisers transform it into art and photography exhibitions, trade fairs, fashion shows, conferences, food festivals and design markets. The sheer scale means it can host many thousands of visitors over the course of an event without ever feeling cramped. The hall’s flexibility is one of its defining traits. Temporary walls, lighting rigs and stages can be installed to carve out smaller zones or dramatic central arenas. On one visit you might find sleek booths and conference seating; on another, long communal tables surrounded by food stalls or a maze of exhibition stands. Despite these changing layouts, the underlying character of brick, steel and daylight always anchors the experience.Atmosphere among bricks, beams and daylight
What gives Øksnehallen its particular charm is the dialogue between its raw structure and the often polished worlds it hosts. Sunlight filters through the overhead windows, tracing patterns on the floor that shift during the day, while artificial lighting for events adds colour and drama after dark. The tall ceiling keeps acoustics lively, and the constant movement of people lends a sense of energy that suits fairs and shows. Yet there are quieter moments too. Arrive early for a design market or photography exhibition and you might have time to appreciate the fine brickwork, the rhythm of columns and the long vistas down the hall before the main crowds build. The contrast between the building’s past life as a working cattle hall and its current role as a platform for creativity and ideas adds a subtle layer of storytelling to any visit.Anchored in Vesterbro and the Meatpacking District
Øksnehallen stands at Halmtorvet, on the edge of Vesterbro’s former Meatpacking District, an area that has itself undergone a transformation from industrial quarter to one of Copenhagen’s liveliest neighbourhoods. Outside the doors, broad urban squares and former warehouses now house eateries, bars, creative studios and cultural spaces. The hall forms part of the DGI Byen complex, which gathers a mix of sports, leisure and meeting facilities. This setting makes a visit to Øksnehallen easy to combine with exploring the surrounding streets. Between exhibition sessions or conference breaks, it is simple to step outside for a coffee, a quick meal or a walk among the characteristic white, brown and grey meatpacking buildings. The location near the city centre means the hall feels connected to Copenhagen’s broader urban life rather than tucked away as an isolated convention centre.Planning your time inside the hall
Time spent at Øksnehallen depends heavily on what is on the calendar. A focused visit to a single exhibition might take an hour, while large trade fairs, festivals or multi-day conferences can fill half a day or more. The open plan encourages you to wander at your own pace, pausing at installations, stands or stages that capture your interest. Facilities are geared towards events rather than casual drop‑ins, so amenities such as food stalls, cafés and seating areas appear when there is a show or fair in progress and may not be present at quieter times. It is wise to check event information in advance to understand whether you are arriving to a bustling hall or a more sparsely programmed day. Whatever is on, the building itself—its history, architecture and sense of scale—provides a compelling backdrop to the activity within.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Copenhagen Central Post Building
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A majestic neo-Baroque landmark intertwining Denmark’s postal history with Vesterbro’s vibrant urban fabric, located beside Copenhagen’s bustling central railway station.
Copenhagen Central Station
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Historic brick-and-timber rail hub at the heart of Copenhagen, combining grand architecture, everyday convenience and instant access to the city’s main sights.
Frihedsstøtten
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Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
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Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Cykelslangen
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An elevated orange ribbon over Copenhagen’s harbor where cyclists glide above the water and visitors glimpse the city’s everyday bicycle culture in motion.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
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A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
Havneholmen 33
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Striking waterfront media headquarters in Copenhagen’s Havneholmen district, where modern Danish office architecture meets busy cycle bridges and harbour life.
Lur Blowers
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Bronze Age horns meet early 20th‑century grandeur in this 20‑metre column, where two silent lur players keep watch over Copenhagen’s bustling City Hall Square.
Vandkunsten Springvand
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Danish Architecture Centre
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Explore Danish and international architecture, urban development, and design at Copenhagen's premier cultural center, the Danish Architecture Centre, located in the iconic BLOX building.
Frederiksholms Kanal
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Discover the charm of Frederiksholms Kanal, Copenhagen's picturesque canal, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural exploration.
The Stable Boy's House
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A modest former service house on Frederiksholms Kanal, quietly recalling the working lives behind Copenhagen’s royal stables and the grandeur of nearby Christiansborg.
Magstræde
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Discover the enchanting charm of Magstræde, one of Copenhagen's oldest streets, filled with historic architecture, cozy cafes, and vibrant local culture.
Lille Langebro
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Explore Kronborg Castle, the iconic setting of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' and delve into Denmark's Renaissance history.
Nytorv
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Historic domed observatory in Aarhus offering inspiring stargazing nights, public tours, and a glimpse into Denmark’s astronomical history atop a leafy city hill.
Unmissable attractions to see
Freddys Bar
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Discover Denmark’s maritime heritage and cutting-edge architecture at Helsingør’s award-winning M/S Maritime Museum, set in a stunning subterranean dry dock near Kronborg Castle.
Mikkeller Bar
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Stændertorvet is Roskilde’s historic central square, bustling with markets, events, and iconic views of the UNESCO-listed cathedral at the city’s vibrant core.
Istedgade
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Gritty, creative and endlessly watchable, Istedgade is Vesterbro’s main strip and Copenhagen’s classic showcase of everyday city life with an edge.
Fermentoren
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Discover Denmark’s maritime legacy at the award-winning M/S Maritime Museum in Helsingør, where innovative architecture meets interactive storytelling and rich seafaring history.
Model train display
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Discover the enchanting Model Train Display in Copenhagen, showcasing intricate landscapes and charming miniature railways for all ages.
The Tube
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Step into a World War II bomb shelter transformed into a mind-bending immersive experience with 17 interactive rooms.
Red Sightseeing Copenhagen
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Hands-on science, vintage vehicles, and maritime history come together in this interactive, family-friendly branch of Malmö Museum, housed in an iconic industrial building.
Rutschebanen
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A century-old wooden roller coaster weaving through a rocky mountain in Tivoli Gardens, where a live brakeman and rattling timber keep Copenhagen’s past in motion.
Himmelskibet
0.5 km
Spin 80 meters high on the world's tallest carousel swing for breathtaking Copenhagen views.
Legepladsen i Skydebanehaven
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A colourful staffed playground tucked inside a historic walled park in Vesterbro, where giant parrots, paddling pools and lawns turn old shooting grounds into family fun.
Det Ny Teater
0.6 km
Historic Belle Époque playhouse turned musical powerhouse, Det Ny Teater blends gilded grandeur, modern stagecraft and big‑scale productions in the heart of Copenhagen.
Tivoli Gardens
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Explore enchanting Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen, home to Denmark’s Crown Jewels, opulent royal halls, lush gardens, and centuries of riveting royal history.
Planetarium
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in razor‑sharp journeys through the cosmos beneath Europe’s largest tilted dome at Copenhagen’s lakeside Planetarium, a family‑friendly hub of space science.
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
0.8 km
Explore Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen's Renaissance masterpiece housing Denmark's Crown Jewels and royal treasures.
Statue of Andersen
0.8 km
A larger-than-life Hans Christian Andersen sits in bronze on Copenhagen’s City Hall Square, book in hand, gazing toward Tivoli Gardens in the city’s vibrant heart.
Essential places to dine
Fleisch
0.2 km
A contemporary restaurant and butcher shop in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, Fleisch combines Nordic meat traditions with creative, communal dining in an atmospheric urban setting.
Paté Paté
0.2 km
Paté Paté offers Mediterranean-inspired dining and expertly curated wines in Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District, blending industrial charm with vibrant Copenhagen culinary culture.
Kødbyens Fiskebar
0.2 km
Industrial-chic seafood in Copenhagen’s former Meatpacking District, where ultra-fresh Nordic fish, natural wines and a buzzing bar scene meet under one concrete roof.
Ristorante Buono
0.3 km
Cozy Vesterbro Italian with candlelit tables, generous pasta and risotto, and a relaxed neighbourhood feel in the heart of Copenhagen’s evening dining scene.
Cofoco
0.3 km
Cofoco in Vesterbro delights with accessible, innovative Danish and European tasting menus amid warm Scandinavian aesthetics and a true neighborhood spirit.
LUN restaurant & winebar
0.4 km
Andalusian-inspired tasting menus, serious wine and cocktails, and a warm candlelit atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen’s Vesterbro district.
MASH Penthouse
0.4 km
Skyline steakhouse on the 12th floor of Tivoli Hotel, blending premium cuts, crafted cocktails and sweeping Copenhagen views in a chic, velvety penthouse setting.
Smagsløget
0.4 km
Discover Smagsløget in Copenhagen: where traditional Danish flavors meet innovative culinary experiences in an inviting atmosphere.
Maple Casual Dining
0.5 km
Intimate Copenhagen dinner spot on Vesterbrogade, serving polished home-style dishes, generous desserts and warm service in a cozy, modern neighborhood setting.
Retour Vesterbro
0.5 km
Relaxed French-inspired bistro in the heart of Vesterbro, serving generous steaks, classic comfort dishes and cocktails in a warm, urban Copenhagen setting.
Delphine
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Stylish Mediterranean small plates in a visually stunning Vesterbro setting.
La Baracca Tivoli - Food Hall
0.5 km
Handmade Italian pasta and wine in the heart of Tivoli Food Hall, offering relaxed, counter-service dining steps from Copenhagen Central Station.
Je t'aime
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Intimate Vesterbro bistro where candlelight, classic French dishes and a well‑chosen wine list bring a touch of Paris to a quiet Copenhagen side street.
Madklubben Vesterbro
0.7 km
A buzzing, design-forward restaurant in the heart of Vesterbro, known for great value fixed-price menus and a welcoming slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Spisestedet FEED
0.7 km
Discover exquisite flavors and an inviting atmosphere at Spisestedet FEED in the heart of København.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tivoli Gift Shop
0.5 km
A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.
Funky Junky
0.5 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
0.6 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Souvenir Gift Shop
0.6 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.7 km
Compact, colorful and full of playful Danish design, this Vesterbrogade shop turns everyday essentials, gifts and games into a fun, low-cost treasure hunt.
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
0.8 km
Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.
Artikel København
0.8 km
Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.
Wonderful Souvenirs
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Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Danish Souvenirs
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Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Viking Souvenirs
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Lively Strøget souvenir shop packed with Viking‑themed gifts, Danish icons and suitcase‑friendly mementos, ideal for quick last‑minute presents in central Copenhagen.
Carmen Copenhagen
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Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
København K
1.1 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Souvenir Shop
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Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
Wasteland
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A high-energy vintage hub in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, packed with curated 80s, 90s and Y2K streetwear, denim and accessories in a distinctly urban setting.
Quirky Lane
1.1 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spunk
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Spunk, a lively bar in Copenhagen offering a diverse drinks menu and an inviting atmosphere for all.
1656 Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Hidden behind an unmarked door in Vesterbro, 1656 serves inventive cocktails in a dimly lit, speakeasy-style hideaway made for slow, late-night conversations.
Jolene Bar
0.2 km
Industrial‑chic, late‑night beats in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, blending laid‑back bar vibes with a no‑frills, LGBTQ‑friendly dance floor.
Mesteren & Lærlingen
0.3 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Mesteren & Lærlingen, where cocktails meet vibrant DJ beats in the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife.
Jernbanecafeen
0.3 km
Densely decorated, railway‑themed pub opposite Copenhagen Central Station, where model trains, red carpets and cold beer create a lively Vesterbro living room.
CUBE bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at CUBE Bar, a stylish venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Curfew
0.5 km
Discover Curfew in Copenhagen: a chic cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for your night out.
Library Bar
0.5 km
Experience Copenhagen's luxurious Library Bar, where sophisticated cocktails meet an inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar
0.7 km
Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Pier5 Bar
0.7 km
Waterfront cocktails and harbor views in Copenhagen's contemporary hotel bar.
Lidkoeb
0.8 km
Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
The Shamrock Inn
0.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Shamrock Inn, Copenhagen's premier Irish pub with live music and sports entertainment.
Proud Mary Pub
0.8 km
Loud, lively and central, Proud Mary Pub brings a British-style pub atmosphere, hearty bar food and big beer nights to Copenhagen’s Vesterbrogade.
Riesen Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
The Marble Bar
0.8 km
An intimate marble-clad cocktail hideaway inside Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, serving Scandinavian-inflected drinks and quiet luxury steps from Tivoli Gardens.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Baggen
0.2 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Baggen, where Copenhagen's nightlife comes alive with vibrant music and unforgettable experiences.
CristalClubCopenhagen
0.3 km
Dive into Copenhagen's nightlife at Cristal Club, where upscale ambiance meets electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub, where adult entertainment meets unforgettable performances.
The Union
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union, Copenhagen's premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable experience.
KB3
0.4 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at KB3, a lively night club in Vesterbro offering unforgettable music and vibrant experiences.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
0.4 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
Never Mind
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Den Anden Side
0.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
Module
0.7 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
Club Mambo
0.9 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.9 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Dorsia
1.0 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Cosy Bar
1.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Zefside
1.1 km
Intimate cocktail den turned late-night dance spot, Zefside blends crafted drinks, DJ beats and canal-side charm in the heart of central Copenhagen.
Miami Bar
1.1 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
