Borgerkroen
Historic Danish bodega where centuries of harbor culture meet smørrebrød and live music.
Borgerkroen is a historic Danish bodega and restaurant in Helsingør's harbor district, housed in a building with tavern operations dating back to the 1700s. Located on Strandgade with views of Blomstertorvet and Swedish ferries, it specializes in traditional smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and Danish classics. The venue features a warm, authentic atmosphere with both indoor seating and a waterfront terrace, complemented by regular live music performances including blues and jazz. Known for friendly service and a convivial mix of regulars and visitors.
A brief summary to Borgerkroen
- Strandgade 75, Helsingør, 3000, DK
- +4549211783
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-9 pm
- Saturday 10 am-9 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early or call ahead during peak season (summer months and weekends), as popular smørrebrød dishes can sell out quickly.
- Check the schedule for live music performances—blues and jazz evenings add significantly to the atmosphere and social energy.
- Order multiple smørrebrød varieties and share; the sandwiches are designed for tasting and allow you to experience the full range of the kitchen's work.
- Visit during mild weather to enjoy the outdoor terrace with views of the harbor and ferry terminals—a quintessential Helsingør experience.
- Ask staff for recommendations on house specialties and daily offerings; the kitchen accommodates special requests and can suggest combinations suited to your preferences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
Borgerkroen location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Borgerkroen
A Living Monument to Danish Tavern Culture
Borgerkroen stands as one of Denmark's oldest continuously operating drinking establishments, with documented tavern operations in its building stretching back to the 1700s. This heritage is woven into every corner of the venue—from the worn wooden fixtures to the convivial energy that fills its rooms. The kroen (traditional inn) has witnessed centuries of Helsingør life, serving as a gathering place for merchants, sailors, locals, and travelers. Today, it remains a living archive of Danish hospitality traditions, where history is not merely displayed but actively lived through daily service and conversation.Harbor Setting and Architectural Character
Situated on Strandgade in Helsingør's historic harbor district, Borgerkroen occupies a prime position overlooking Blomstertorvet square and the ferry terminals connecting Denmark to Sweden. The location places visitors at the intersection of maritime commerce and cultural exchange—a fitting home for an establishment that has long served as a crossroads for different communities. The building's architecture reflects its age and purpose, with authentic period details that transport guests to earlier eras of Danish social life. Both indoor and outdoor seating areas take advantage of the waterfront setting, offering views of harbor activity and seasonal light across the water.Smørrebrød and Traditional Danish Cuisine
The kitchen at Borgerkroen focuses on smørrebrød, the iconic Danish open-faced sandwich tradition that transforms simple ingredients into carefully composed culinary statements. Each sandwich is individually crafted, allowing diners to taste variations and share across the table. The menu emphasizes quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods, though availability can fluctuate based on daily supply. Beyond smørrebrød, the restaurant serves broader Danish classics that reflect the country's culinary heritage. The establishment demonstrates flexibility in accommodating special requests, recognizing that hospitality extends beyond the printed menu.Atmosphere and Social Experience
The defining characteristic of Borgerkroen is its unique social atmosphere—a space where regulars and newcomers naturally intermingle, creating an organic sense of community. The venue hosts regular live music performances featuring blues and jazz, transforming evenings into cultural experiences that extend beyond dining. Staff members are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to the welcoming environment. The combination of historic setting, convivial patrons, and quality service creates an experience that feels authentically Danish rather than curated for tourism, though visitors from across Scandinavia and beyond are warmly received.Seasonal and Practical Considerations
The outdoor terrace operates seasonally, making summer months particularly appealing for waterfront dining. Indoor facilities provide year-round comfort, though some visitors note variations in restroom conditions typical of older buildings. The venue's popularity means that signature dishes may occasionally sell out, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons. The moderate price level makes Borgerkroen accessible for casual visits while maintaining quality standards. Its central harbor location makes it easily integrated into walking tours of Helsingør's historic district.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Helsingor
0.1 km
Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør
0.1 km
A dynamic hub for contemporary and experimental art in the heart of Roskilde, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive creative experiences.
'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
0.1 km
A vivid gable mural that turns Helsingør’s medieval tolls and ship traffic into a richly detailed open-air history lesson in the heart of the old town.
Helsingør harbour
0.4 km
Where maritime heritage meets Shakespeare's legacy at Denmark's gateway to Sweden.
Heracles and the Hydra
0.4 km
Mythological bronze warrior frozen in eternal combat on Helsingør's historic waterfront.
'Time of the shipyard' mural
0.4 km
A hyper-realistic tribute to Helsingør's legendary shipyard, painted by American master Garin Baker.
Elsinore Cemetery
0.7 km
Historic burial ground where 16th-century roots meet artistic legacy in Denmark's literary heartland.
Kronborg Castle Church
0.7 km
Renaissance sanctuary that miraculously survived fire, preserving royal religious heritage within Hamlet's legendary castle.
Helsingborg City Hall
5.1 km
A monumental red-brick city hall and coastal gateway, where neo-Gothic towers, National Romantic detail and civic stories overlook the Øresund in central Helsingborg.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
8.5 km
Experience world-class modern art where architecture and nature meet in perfect harmony, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape just north of Copenhagen.
Hornbæk Batteri
10.5 km
WWII coastal fortress commanding the Øresund strait from Denmark's dramatic northern cliffs.
Hornbaek beach
12.1 km
Discover Hornbæk Beach, the gem of the Danish Riviera, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and a charming seaside atmosphere perfect for relaxation and unforgettable summer memories.
Observationsvärn nr 741
12.5 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Observationsvärn nr 741 in Viken, a captivating landmark steeped in military history and stunning views.
Falkonergården
13.0 km
Explore the enchanting Falkonergården Zoo in Fredensborg, a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure in nature.
Ven
14.4 km
Discover Ven: A Swedish island gem in the Öresund Strait, blending history, nature, and tranquility for an unforgettable escape between Sweden and Denmark, steeped in astronomical history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Memorial stone for fallen Helsingorans
0.0 km
A modest harbor-side monument in Helsingør honoring local lives lost in World War II, quietly linking the busy waterfront to the town’s stories of resistance and sacrifice.
Skibsklarerergaarden
0.1 km
Step into an 18th‑century ship handler’s home in Helsingør and experience the intimate world of Øresund tolls, merchant families and maritime trade.
Saint Olai Church
0.2 km
Discover Saint Olai Church, Helsingør's majestic cathedral, where centuries of Danish history and Gothic elegance meet amid soaring vaults and maritime heritage.
Wibroe Plads
0.2 km
A modest harbourfront square where merchant mansions, cobbled edges and Øresund views quietly reveal Helsingør’s long maritime story.
Helsingor Statshavn
0.2 km
A compact working harbor at the narrowest point of the Øresund, where everyday port life unfolds against big-sky views toward the Swedish coast.
Helsingør harbor promenade
0.2 km
A breezy waterfront ribbon along the Øresund, linking Helsingør’s working harbor, cultural quarter and Kronborg Castle with open sea views and everyday local life.
i Helsingør
0.2 km
Compact tourist information hub on historic Stjernegade, perfectly placed to plan your exploration of Helsingør’s old town, harbour culture sites and North Zealand.
History of the churches
0.2 km
A storytelling gable in Helsingør’s old town, this mural compresses centuries of church history into a single vivid scene between two medieval sanctuaries.
SOUL OF THE WALLS
0.3 km
Immersive bronze sculpture depicting Greek mythology at the gates of Kronborg Castle, offering a unique photo spot and cultural layer to Helsingør’s historic landscape.
St. Mary's Church
0.3 km
Historic public square at the heart of Roskilde, home to markets, festivals, and community life, framed by centuries-old buildings and vibrant Danish tradition.
Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd
0.3 km
Compact yet grand, this memorial fountain on Axeltorv turns a busy Helsingør square into a vivid snapshot of royal power, maritime trade and urban ambition.
Fyrskibet nr. XVII
0.3 km
A 19th-century Danish lightship turned floating monument, Fyrskibet nr. XVII “Gedser Rev” brings Helsingør’s maritime and Cold War history vividly to life on the harbor.
Elsinore Public Museums
0.4 km
Three interconnected museums preserving 600 years of Elsinore's maritime, commercial, and industrial heritage in Denmark's historic city center.
'The maritime history' mural
0.5 km
A harbour gable transformed into a sweeping, collage-like tribute to 300 years of Danish seafaring, anchoring Helsingør’s shipyard era in vivid colour and form.
Arte callejero
0.5 km
Industrial-era Helsingør splashed across a gable wall: a bold shipyard mural that fuses street art style with the town’s maritime past on Allegade 7B.
Essential places to dine
Borgerkroen
0.0 km
Historic Danish bodega where centuries of harbor culture meet smørrebrød and live music.
Ramen world
0.1 km
Handcrafted Japanese ramen in the heart of Helsingør—authentic flavors, warm hospitality, exceptional value.
Jellyfish
0.1 km
Intimate Nordic seafood restaurant in Helsingør’s old town, pairing fresh Danish ingredients with modern, minimalist design and a relaxed, coastal atmosphere.
Cafe Karisma
0.1 km
Casual coffee and juice bar on Helsingør’s Stengade, serving Illy coffee, fresh-pressed juices, sandwiches and baked potatoes in a relaxed, everyday setting.
Rådmand Davids Hus
0.1 km
Historic 1694 café serving authentic Danish smørrebrød in cozy, timeless surroundings.
San Remo
0.1 km
Authentic Danish comfort food in a historic old-town cafeteria where tradition meets genuine hospitality.
Strejf
0.1 km
Seasonal Nordic cooking and harbour views in Helsingør’s old station building, where seafood, steaks, wine and cocktails meet the maritime buzz of Øresund.
Sundkroen
0.1 km
Cozy Danish brasserie-style dining in the historic Madam Sprunck building, steps from Helsingør Station and the Øresund waterfront.
Blue Sky Sushi
0.1 km
Cozy Japanese all‑you‑can‑eat sushi in Helsingør’s historic center, blending fresh fish, low‑waste principles and a relaxed, modern atmosphere near the harbor.
San Rock Restaurant & Grillbar
0.1 km
Casual central Helsingør grill bar serving unfussy comfort food and generous plates just steps from the old town streets and harbourfront sights.
Zilleri
0.2 km
Compact Italian trattoria and deli in Helsingør’s old town, serving homemade pasta and classic specialties among shelves of wines and pantry staples.
Bistro Francophile
0.2 km
Cozy French-inspired bistro by Helsingør’s harborfront, pairing classic Gallic comfort dishes with a focused wine list and intimate, candlelit atmosphere.
Ofelia Bar
0.2 km
Stylish tapas bar and cocktail lounge offering inventive bites, curated drinks, and lively atmosphere—an essential stop for food and nightlife lovers in central Helsingør.
Rib House
0.2 km
Casual steakhouse on Helsingør’s main street, serving generous spareribs and grills in a relaxed, family‑friendly setting close to the town’s historic sights.
Appetit
0.2 km
Modern French fine dining with seasonal flair and passionate craftsmanship in charming Helsingør.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Helsingør Vinhandel
0.1 km
Denmark's premier wine and spirits specialist in historic Helsingør, where expertise meets passion.
Butik hos Anna & Sofie
0.1 km
A cosy, Nordic-style boutique on Helsingør’s main street, blending women’s fashion, skincare and homewares in a warm, living-room-like setting.
Helsingør Kaffe og Thehus ApS
0.1 km
A cosy Helsingør specialty shop where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, fine tea and Nordic delicacies fills a historic cobbled lane in the heart of the old town.
Jørgensen & Co.
0.1 km
Exclusive curated fashion for discerning tastes in historic Helsingør's charming pedestrian district.
Ide Nyt
0.1 km
A contemporary women’s fashion boutique on lively Bjergegade, Ide Nyt blends Scandinavian style, quality brands and a calm atmosphere in Helsingør’s historic heart.
Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet
0.2 km
Compact Scandinavian outlet where Ilse Jacobsen’s coastal rainwear, rubber boots and relaxed Nordic fashion meet reduced prices in central Helsingør.
Østens Perle
0.2 km
Colourful Indian-inspired gift and handicraft shop in historic Helsingør, filled with hand-picked textiles, spiritual objects and cosy home décor since 2001.
Levende Lys
0.2 km
A cosy, colour-filled fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Helsingør, blending contemporary women’s clothing with playful home décor and gift ideas.
Jutebar Denmark ApS
0.2 km
Small Helsingør boutique specialising in stylish, sustainable jute bags and gifts, blending Scandinavian design sensibility with everyday practicality.
Happy Gifts & Souvenirs
0.2 km
Compact, cheerful and central, Happy Gifts & Souvenirs is Helsingør’s easy stop for Danish-themed keepsakes and Kronborg-inspired mementos after a day of exploring.
HL Mode A/S
0.2 km
Contemporary Danish fashion retailer offering curated brands and personalized styling in Helsingør's vibrant shopping district.
Ophelia
0.2 km
Curated Scandinavian boutique in historic Helsingør, where literary heritage meets contemporary design.
Krystallen
0.3 km
Helsingør's premier crystal and mineral shop with expertly curated specimens and atmospheric presentation.
Butik Chaplin
0.3 km
A cosy Helsingør boutique brimming with handmade jewelry, retro interiors and knitwear, where every carefully chosen piece tells a small, colourful story.
Imerco
0.3 km
Compact Scandinavian home store on Helsingør’s main street, packed with kitchenware, tableware and cosy design gifts for practical living and stylish souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Strandborg
0.0 km
Waterfront bar and restaurant where Helsingør's harbor views meet casual Nordic dining and evening social scene.
Holger
0.1 km
Cozy cellar bodega on Helsingør’s Stengade, pouring inexpensive beers and spirits, with live music nights and a laid-back local crowd deep into the night.
Banana joe
0.1 km
Compact late-night bar above Helsingør’s nightlife strip, serving straightforward drinks, warm lighting and a relaxed local vibe long after the streets quieten.
Helsingør Musikteater
0.2 km
Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.
Pitten Sport Bar
0.2 km
Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.
Axelhus
0.3 km
Casual bodega and burger bar in Helsingør's old town, open late on weekends with beer and Danish comfort food.
Hold-An
0.3 km
Unfussy beer hall and local bar in central Helsingør, pouring cold brews, simple bites and everyday Danish hygge from late morning to late night.
Axelhus Udeservering
0.3 km
Open-air corner bar on Bjergegade, where simple food, cold beer and Axeltorv’s street life come together in the historic heart of Helsingør.
Head/Foam
0.4 km
Modern neighbourhood bar near Helsingør’s historic centre, pouring craft beer and cocktails from midday to the early hours in a lively, social setting.
Joker Bar
1.4 km
Relaxed Danish bar offering casual drinks and friendly conversation in historic Helsingør.
12`er Pubben
1.7 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Helsingør with billiards, sports on TV and cold beers, offering an authentic slice of Danish local bar life.
Gefion Bodega
1.8 km
Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.
Kardusen
3.1 km
Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.
Oddies Beach Bar
17.4 km
Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.
Jernstangen
22.4 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Retro
0.1 km
High-energy weekend nightclub in central Helsingør, mixing big-room beats, bright lights and a young crowd in what calls itself the largest club north of Copenhagen.
Rustik
0.4 km
Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.
Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub
4.7 km
Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.
Socialz
22.7 km
Intimate cocktail bar and nightclub in the heart of Hillerød, blending shisha lounge vibes, late-night DJ sets and a compact dance floor on lively Slotsgade.
SIGURD CPH
36.9 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
37.5 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
RUST Natklub
38.3 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
38.5 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Culture Box
38.7 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
39.0 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Mini Bar
39.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Mirage
39.3 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
39.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Moon Club
39.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Zoo
39.3 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Unique
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly