Kunsthal Charlottenborg
Historic Charlottenborg Palace turned contemporary art powerhouse, where baroque architecture, bold exhibitions and Nyhavn views collide in central Copenhagen.
Housed in the baroque Charlottenborg Palace on the edge of Nyhavn, Kunsthal Charlottenborg is one of Northern Europe’s largest and most atmospheric venues for contemporary art. Here, grand 17th‑century halls and lofty white galleries host an ambitious, ever‑changing program of exhibitions, performances, film screenings and talks that link Copenhagen’s royal past with cutting‑edge international art.
A brief summary to Kunsthal Charlottenborg
- Nyhavn 2, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1051, DK
- +4533744639
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
- Friday 12 pm-8 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan at least 1.5–2 hours so you can explore all wings; exhibitions vary greatly in scale and some installations reward slow, detailed viewing.
- Check current exhibitions and event listings in advance, as the Kunsthal has no permanent collection and the experience can change completely between seasons.
- Head to upper‑floor windows or stair landings for atmospheric framed views over Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv, especially on clear days.
- Combine your visit with a coffee or a browse in the art bookshop, which carries thoughtful selections that often relate directly to ongoing exhibitions.
- If you prefer quieter galleries, aim for opening hours earlier in the day or outside major exhibition openings and special events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Metro from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the M1 or M2 metro line to Kongens Nytorv Station, which typically takes 3–6 minutes from Nørreport or 8–10 minutes from Ørestad. Trains run every few minutes throughout the day. From the station, it is a short, level walk through the square to the Kunsthal. A single metro ticket within the city zone usually costs around 20–30 DKK, and elevators make this option convenient for wheelchair users and travelers with luggage.
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City bus to Kongens Nytorv area
Several city bus routes serve the streets around Kongens Nytorv, with typical journey times of 10–20 minutes from other central districts depending on traffic. Standard bus tickets within the inner zones generally cost 20–30 DKK and can be purchased via ticket machines or travel apps. Buses are low‑floor and suitable for most mobility levels, although they may be slower during rush hours when the area around the square becomes congested.
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Bicycle within Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s extensive bike lanes make cycling to Kunsthal Charlottenborg a practical option from most central neighborhoods in about 10–20 minutes. You can use the city’s bike‑share schemes or rental shops, with typical rental rates ranging from 50–120 DKK for a few hours. Bike racks are available near Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv, but securing your bike well is advisable, and cycling may be less comfortable in heavy rain or icy winter conditions.
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On foot from nearby central areas
If you are already in the historic center around Strøget, Nyhavn or Amalienborg, allow 5–20 minutes to walk to Kunsthal Charlottenborg along mostly flat, paved streets. The route passes through busy pedestrian areas and cobblestoned sections, which may require extra care for visitors with limited mobility or wheeled luggage. Walking is free and allows you to enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of Kongens Nytorv and the surrounding streets before entering the exhibition spaces.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg 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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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Kunsthal Charlottenborg
Baroque palace with an artistic soul
Kunsthal Charlottenborg occupies the historic Charlottenborg Palace, a grand 17th‑century residence set on Kongens Nytorv at the mouth of Nyhavn. Behind the brick façades and classical proportions lies a long royal lineage: the palace was originally built for Ulrik Frederik Gyldenløve, half‑brother of King Christian V, before passing to dowager queen Charlotte Amalie, whose name the building still carries. Over time the palace became closely tied to the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, embedding art and education into its identity. Walking up to the Kunsthal, you see how the Dutch‑influenced baroque exterior frames a large inner courtyard and wings that wrap around it. The architecture still exudes aristocratic dignity, but the banners, posters and glimpses of installations through high windows signal the building’s modern purpose as a home for contemporary creation rather than courtly life.From royal residence to contemporary powerhouse
In the 18th century the palace was formally taken over by the Academy of Fine Arts, and Charlottenborg’s rooms began to host exhibitions, teaching and artistic debate. Purpose‑built exhibition halls were added in the 19th century, turning the complex into a dedicated venue for visual art. That evolution laid the groundwork for what is today known as Kunsthal Charlottenborg: an institution without a permanent collection, focused instead on temporary shows that constantly reimagine the spaces. Throughout its history, the Kunsthal has hosted major group exhibitions, including the juried spring show that has long introduced new artists to the Danish art scene, as well as academy degree exhibitions that present the next generation of graduates. This blend of institutional tradition and experimental programming gives the venue a rhythm tied to both the academic calendar and the broader international art world.Immersive spaces for changing exhibitions
Inside, the Kunsthal’s galleries unfold as a series of large, flexible rooms with high ceilings, polished floors and generous natural light. The historic structure has been adapted to allow installations, video works, sculpture and large‑scale projects to take over entire wings. Some spaces feel almost cathedral‑like in their height, while others are more intimate, encouraging close viewing and quieter reflection. Because there is no permanent collection, each visit can feel entirely different. One season might fill the halls with textile‑based installations and sound works, another with photo series, digital media and sculptural interventions exploring technology, identity or environmental change. The white walls and classical bones act as a neutral yet characterful backdrop, letting contemporary works create sharp contrasts with the building’s age and ornamentation.A living hub of talks, screenings and performances
Kunsthal Charlottenborg operates as much as a cultural meeting place as an exhibition venue. Alongside its shows it regularly stages artist talks, panel discussions, performances and film screenings that dig deeper into the themes on display. These events often activate the courtyard, staircases or foyer as informal gathering spaces, making the building feel like a living campus of ideas rather than a static museum. A small but carefully curated art bookshop expands on this atmosphere, offering catalogues, critical theory, design publications and experimental magazines that mirror the Kunsthal’s interests. The on‑site café and nearby city square provide places to pause between galleries, continue conversations and watch the world go by in the heart of Copenhagen’s historic center.Nyhavn views and city‑center atmosphere
One of the quiet pleasures of visiting Kunsthal Charlottenborg is being so close to Nyhavn’s waterfront while inhabiting a calmer, more contemplative space. From certain upper‑floor windows you can catch framed views of the famous colorful canal houses and masts outside, a reminder of Copenhagen’s maritime history beyond the palace walls. The contrast between busy harbor life and hushed exhibition rooms is part of the site’s charm. With its central location on Kongens Nytorv, the Kunsthal is surrounded by theatres, historic buildings and pedestrian streets, making it easy to combine with other cultural stops. Yet once inside, the noise of the city fades, replaced by the subdued soundscape of footsteps on wooden floors and the occasional murmur from a video installation, underscoring the sense of retreat.A bridge between heritage and experimentation
Today, Kunsthal Charlottenborg stands as a vivid example of how an aristocratic city palace can be repurposed for contemporary use without losing its historic character. The Dutch baroque details, courtyard layout and connections to the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts coexist with installations that challenge, provoke or delight. This interplay between centuries creates a layered experience: you are never only looking at the art or only at the architecture, but at the conversation between them. For travelers interested in both history and the cutting edge of visual culture, the Kunsthal offers a compact yet rich encounter with Copenhagen’s artistic life. Whether you stay briefly to catch a single exhibition or linger through several wings and events, the building’s mixture of royal past and present‑day experimentation leaves a lasting impression.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen
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Sankt Annæ Pl.
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Wilhelm Hansens Hus
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Hans Christian Andersen plaque
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Holmens Bro
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C.F. Tietgens Hus
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A Neoclassical monument to Danish banking heritage and industrial vision, built for one of history's most influential entrepreneurs.
Bishop Absalon
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Agnete and the Merman Statue
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Frederik's Church
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Copenhagen's iconic copper-domed masterpiece—a 145-year architectural triumph offering panoramic views and spiritual grandeur.
Amalienborg Palace Museum
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Immerse yourself in the splendor and stories of Denmark’s monarchy at Amalienborg Palace Museum, where royal tradition and personal history come alive.
Frederik VII
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Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Højbro
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A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
Knippelsbro
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Copper-topped towers, lifting roadway and harbor breezes make Knippelsbro a compact, characterful bridge linking historic Slotsholmen with canalside Christianshavn.
St. Alexander Nevsky Church
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Copenhagen's ornate Russian Orthodox gem with gilded domes and royal heritage near Amalienborg Palace.
Christiansborg Palace
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Unmissable attractions to see
Memorial Anchor
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Explore one of Europe’s oldest zoos, home to over 3,000 animals, award-winning architecture, immersive habitats, conservation programs, and engaging family activities.
Kongens Nytorv
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s grand royal square, where theatres, palaces, luxury hotels and metro lines meet above a lively, ever-changing city stage.
The Royal Playhouse and The Old Stage
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s national theatre in two acts: a gilded 19th‑century Old Stage on Kongens Nytorv and a bold modern playhouse rising directly above the harbour waters.
Copenhagen Amber Museum
0.1 km
A tiny 17th‑century townhouse on Kongens Nytorv where Baltic amber, ancient insects and Scandinavian craft turn deep time into a warm, golden museum experience.
Nyhavn
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Copenhagen’s classic harbour postcard: colourful 17th‑century houses, wooden ships and waterside cafés where maritime history meets modern hygge.
Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn
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A modest canal bridge with a grand view, Nyhavnsbroen is the perfect perch above Copenhagen’s most colourful harbour and its centuries of maritime stories.
Bredgade 18
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A quietly elegant address on Copenhagen’s grand Bredgade, surrounded by Frederiksstaden’s mansions, churches and design showrooms in the heart of the city.
Indre By
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A storied sanctuary in Nørrebro, Assistens Cemetery blends tranquil nature, remarkable history, and the celebrated graves of Danish luminaries.
Guinness World Records Museum
0.3 km
Explore the extraordinary limits of human achievement in Scandinavia's premier world records museum.
Havnepromenade
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Discover Copenhagen’s Garden of the Royal Library: an elegant and tranquil retreat bridging royal heritage and modern design in the heart of the Danish capital.
Havnegade Promenaden
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Slottsträdgården is Malmö’s central organic garden retreat, blending vibrant themed gardens, historic castle views, and lively year-round events in a lush urban oasis.
The Playhouse
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A beautiful English gothic church in the heart of Copenhagen, St Alban’s blends British heritage and Danish history beside the city’s iconic fortifications.
The Kissing Stairs
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Stroll along Langelinie, Copenhagen’s bustling waterfront, where iconic statues, historic parkland, and sweeping harbor views create a quintessential maritime escape.
Hey Captain
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Experience the heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where shopping, dining, and culture converge in a historic market square.
Inderhavnsbroen
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Explore the evolution of Danish design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
Essential places to dine
Nyhavns Færgekro
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Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Cap Horn
0.1 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
Skipperkroen
0.1 km
Harbourfront smørrebrød and seafood in an 18th‑century Nyhavn house, pairing classic Danish flavours with canal views from cosy rooms and a lively terrace.
à terre
0.1 km
à terre brings French fine dining infused with Nordic creativity to central Copenhagen, offering an intimate, innovative tasting menu experience near Copenhagen’s key attractions.
Goldfinch
0.2 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Marchal
0.2 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
Bistro Royal
0.3 km
Elegant all‑day French‑Danish bistro on Kongens Nytorv, pairing brasserie classics with prime people‑watching and a lively, chandelier‑lit atmosphere.
Khun Juk
0.3 km
Refined Thai dining tucked into Copenhagen’s iconic Nyhavn, where candlelit tables, fresh flowers and layered flavors turn dinner into an intimate evening event.
Llama
0.3 km
Latin American flavors, bold cocktails and patterned-tile design bring Peruvian and Mexican energy to a lively, late-night restaurant just off Kongens Nytorv.
King Hans Cellar
0.3 km
Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
Frank
0.3 km
A candlelit Copenhagen luxury bistro where an open kitchen, bold seasonal cooking and an exceptional wine list create an intimate, wine-lover’s evening.
Den Lille Fede
0.3 km
Cosy, candlelit tasting-menu restaurant near Kongens Nytorv, where playful Nordic-inspired courses and thoughtful wine pairings turn dinner into an unhurried evening event.
Restaurant Vita
0.3 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
l’Alsace
0.3 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.4 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zane
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Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.2 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Copenhagenglass
0.2 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Magasin du Nord
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Viking Souvenirs
0.2 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Maritime Antiques &
0.2 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.3 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
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Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
The Wilde Shop
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A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Urban Outfitters
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Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
Storm - design art fashion
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A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
ILLUM
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ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Royal Souvenir Shop
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Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
Danish Souvenirs
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Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
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Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brønnum
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An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
TATA Cocktail Bar
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A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
Bar Deco
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Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Aloha Beach Bar
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Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Balthazar
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A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
1105
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Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
The Moose
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Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Charlie's Bar
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Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
K-Bar
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Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
Trykbar
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Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
The Dubliner
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Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
Bo-Bi Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Balderdash
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Copenhagen’s candlelit cocktail laboratory in a 1732 townhouse, where hygge, art and daring seasonal drinks turn a quiet side street into an unforgettable night out.
Eiffel bar
0.7 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere of Eiffel Bar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a charming setting.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lusso
0.3 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
Mini Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Zoo
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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.
Culture Box
0.8 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Chateau Motel
0.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
1.0 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Operaen
1.0 km
Compact harbourfront nightclub near Copenhagen’s modern opera house, mixing DJ-driven beats, local crowds and late-night energy by the inner-city waterfront.
Rumors
1.0 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
1.0 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
1.1 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Arch
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
La Terraza
1.1 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Mirage
1.1 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Dorsia
1.1 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Club Mambo
1.1 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
