Øksnehallen
A vast former cattle hall turned industrial-chic event space, Øksnehallen anchors Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District with light-filled volume and ever-changing exhibitions.
Set on Halmtorvet in Copenhagen’s vibrant Vesterbro district, Øksnehallen is a vast, atmospheric event hall that blends industrial heritage with contemporary culture. Built in the early 1900s as a cattle market serving the Meatpacking District, the 5,000+ m² space now hosts art exhibitions, design fairs, food festivals, gaming events, conferences and markets beneath lofty steel beams and generous skylights. Its raw brick walls, cast-iron columns and flexible open floor make it one of the city’s most distinctive urban 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 current event calendar in advance; Øksnehallen is not a walk-in attraction and is only accessible when fairs, exhibitions or conferences are scheduled.
- Arrive a little early for major events to pass security or ticket checks smoothly and to enjoy a stroll around Halmtorvet and the surrounding Meatpacking District.
- Wear comfortable footwear—larger fairs can involve several hours of walking across the hall’s expansive, hard floors.
- If you are sensitive to noise or crowds, consider visiting early in the day when many fairs are quieter and the space feels more open.
- Bring a light layer; the large industrial space can feel cool on winter days and slightly warm when packed with people in summer.
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 area, take an S-train or regional train to Copenhagen Central Station, which is one of the city’s main hubs and served frequently throughout the day. A standard single ticket within the core zones typically costs around 24–36 DKK depending on distance. From the station, it is an easy 5–10 minute walk on mostly flat pavements through the Vesterbro side of the railway area to reach Øksnehallen on Halmtorvet. The route is suitable for wheeled luggage and most mobility aids, though it can be busy at peak times.
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City bus to Vesterbro area and walk
Several inner-city bus lines run along and around Vesterbro and the streets near Halmtorvet, with services typically every 5–15 minutes during the day. A single bus ticket within the central zones usually costs about 24–36 DKK and can be bought via ticket machines or official transport apps. Alight at a stop near Copenhagen Central Station or along Ingerslevsgade or Vesterbrogade, then walk 5–10 minutes along level city streets to Øksnehallen. Buses can be crowded in rush hour, so allow extra time if you are heading to a popular event.
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Bicycle from central Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s extensive cycle lanes make it straightforward to reach Øksnehallen by bike from most central neighbourhoods within 10–20 minutes. The route is generally flat and uses segregated bike tracks along the main roads leading toward Vesterbro. Visitors can use city bike-sharing schemes or standard rentals, typically priced from about 75–150 DKK per day depending on provider. Bike parking racks are available close to the venue, but they may fill quickly during larger fairs and evening events.
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Taxi or rideshare within the city
Taxis are widely available across central Copenhagen and can be a convenient option if you are travelling in a small group or carrying heavy materials for a fair or conference. A ride from areas such as Nyhavn, Nørrebro or Østerbro to Øksnehallen usually takes 10–20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares commonly in the 120–220 DKK range. Vehicles can drop passengers close to the main entrance on Halmtorvet, though short delays are possible when major events cause congestion around the square.
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
Øksnehallen began life in the early 20th century as part of Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, purpose-built to stable slaughter cattle arriving into the city. Designed by architect Ludvig Fenger and completed in 1901, the building was one component in a broader complex of market halls that kept the capital fed and fueled during the industrial age. Its long, rectangular footprint and rhythm of cast-iron columns were engineered for function: animals needed space, air and robust flooring. As the meat industry modernised and moved away from central Copenhagen, the old market halls gradually lost their original role. Rather than demolish them, the city chose to preserve this slice of working-class heritage. In the mid-1990s, as Copenhagen celebrated its turn as European Capital of Culture, Øksnehallen was converted into a contemporary exhibition venue. Much of the original shell remained, but the interior was adapted with lighting, infrastructure and acoustics suited to large events.Industrial Architecture with Light and Volume
Stepping inside Øksnehallen, you are immediately struck by its impressive volume. The hall stretches over some 5,000 square metres in a single, column-lined space, with high ceilings and generous skylights flooding the interior with natural light. Rows of slender iron supports divide the floor into bays, creating a pleasing sense of rhythm without interrupting sightlines. The architecture retains a distinctly industrial character: exposed brick, metal trusses and unclad beams give the hall a raw, almost warehouse-like feel. This stripped-back backdrop is precisely what makes the venue so versatile. Clean floors, neutral walls and the absence of built-in seating allow organisers to sculpt the space into anything from a labyrinth of small stands to a vast open arena for performances, catwalks or banquets.Events that Span Art, Commerce and Community
Today Øksnehallen is one of Copenhagen’s flagship indoor venues, hosting a broad spectrum of events across the year. Photography and design exhibitions have filled the hall with towering prints and installations, while technology and gaming conventions transform it into a buzzing playground of screens and stages. Fairs dedicated to food, beer, baby gear, crafts or fashion regularly take over the space, each using the neutral surroundings as a canvas for their own identity. The scale of the hall makes it suitable for conferences and congresses, with capacity for several thousand attendees in plenary setups, plus exhibition zones and catering areas. At other times, the atmosphere is more informal: flea markets, speciality tastings or niche hobby fairs invite slow browsing and people-watching beneath the high roof. While the specific programme changes frequently, the constant is the building itself, which quietly frames each new event.At the Heart of Halmtorvet and the Meatpacking District
Øksnehallen stands directly on Halmtorvet, the elongated square that forms a gateway between Copenhagen Central Station and the Meatpacking District. Outside the hall, an oval water feature, open paved areas and pockets of greenery create breathing room amid the dense urban fabric. Cafés and restaurants line the edges of the square, spilling tables outdoors in warmer months, and giving visitors an easy place to linger before or after an event. Immediately behind Øksnehallen, the streets of the historic Meatpacking District unfold. Low industrial blocks in pale and dark brick are now home to bars, eateries, galleries and creative businesses, but their façades still bear traces of their working past. This setting adds an extra layer of interest: even when the hall itself is closed, the surrounding neighbourhood offers plenty to explore, from casual dining to late-night venues.Visitor Experience Inside a Working Event Venue
Because Øksnehallen functions primarily as a hireable venue rather than a stand-alone attraction, the experience depends strongly on the event taking place. On busy fair days, you might queue briefly at the entrance before stepping into a lively world of stalls, stages and temporary signage, all laid out across the open floor. Lighting, sound and décor are tailored to the theme, so a design fair feels very different from a beer festival or a gaming tournament. Facilities typically include cloakrooms during larger events, basic seating zones, restrooms and access to food and drink either inside the hall or just outside on Halmtorvet. The flat floors and wide doors support step-free circulation for most visitors, and organisers often add wayfinding signs and information desks. Between events, the building can appear quiet from the outside, but its red-brick shell remains an evocative reminder of Copenhagen’s industrial heritage in the heart of Vesterbro.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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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
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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
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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
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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
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Explore Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen's Renaissance masterpiece housing Denmark's Crown Jewels and royal treasures.
Statue of Andersen
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spunk
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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
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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
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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
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Discover the lively bar scene at Mesteren & Lærlingen, where cocktails meet vibrant DJ beats in the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife.
Jernbanecafeen
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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
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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
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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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
