Bishop Absalon Statue, Højbro Plads
Commanding Højbro Plads on a rearing horse, Bishop Absalon’s bronze monument unites Copenhagen’s medieval origins, maritime wealth and political power in a single urban icon.
Rising above Copenhagen’s central Højbro Plads, the equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon honours the 12th‑century warrior‑bishop credited with founding the city. Unveiled in 1902 on the 700th anniversary of his death, the bronze figure rears on horseback facing Christiansborg, where Absalon’s fortress once stood. The richly decorated brick and granite pedestal, with friezes of herring and Viking motifs, links the monument to Copenhagen’s medieval fishing roots and maritime wealth.
A brief summary to Bishop Absalon
- Højbro Pl., Copenhagen, Indre By, 1200, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk all the way around the plinth to spot the herring and wave motifs, Viking patterns and the Danish inscription praising Absalon’s bravery and love of learning.
- Visit in soft morning or late‑afternoon light for the best photos; from near the statue you can frame Absalon against the canal and Christiansborg’s tower.
- Use the granite base as a quick rest spot and take a moment to trace the line of sight from the statue toward Christiansborg, where Absalon’s fortress once stood.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Metro from central Copenhagen stations
From major central stations such as København H or Nørreport, take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 metro lines to either Gammel Strand or Kongens Nytorv; both journeys typically take 5–10 minutes on trains running every few minutes. A single adult ticket covering the city centre usually costs around 20–25 DKK. All metro stations and trains are step‑free, but expect cobbled surfaces as you walk the final few minutes through the old town streets to Højbro Plads and the Bishop Absalon statue.
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City bus within central Copenhagen
Several city bus routes serve stops close to Højbro Plads, with travel times of about 5–15 minutes from other central neighbourhoods depending on traffic. Standard bus tickets for the inner zones generally cost in the range of 20–25 DKK and can be bought via ticket machines or travel apps. Buses are low‑floor and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, but be prepared for short walks on uneven cobblestones from the nearest stop to the square.
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Cycling in the historic centre
Hiring a bicycle from one of Copenhagen’s many rental shops or bike‑share schemes is a practical way to reach Højbro Plads from nearby districts such as Vesterbro, Nørrebro or Østerbro in about 10–20 minutes. Expect to pay roughly 75–150 DKK for a full‑day rental, with helmets often available at extra cost. Dedicated bike lanes cover most of the route, but cycling directly through the square requires slow speeds and care, especially at busy times and during seasonal markets.
Bishop Absalon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Bishop Absalon
A warrior-bishop at the heart of Copenhagen
The equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon dominates Højbro Plads, a busy square in Copenhagen’s historic centre. Cast in bronze and unveiled in 1902 to mark 700 years since Absalon’s death, it captures the figure traditionally credited with founding the city in 1167. Here he is not a cloistered churchman but a formidable commander, presented as the driving force behind Copenhagen’s rise from fishing hamlet to fortified town. Absalon sits astride a rearing horse, clad in mail and helmet, a battle‑axe raised in his right hand. The dynamic pose, high above the heads of passers‑by, suggests a moment of decision on the battlefield and reflects his role as both church leader and royal adviser. The statue faces Christiansborg Palace on Slotsholmen, where Absalon’s original castle once guarded the harbour, while his head turns toward the City Hall, visually linking past and present power centres.Symbolism carved in stone and brick
The plinth beneath the horse is as carefully designed as the sculpture itself. Its lower section is hewn from granite and deliberately shaped to double as informal seating, drawing everyday city life right up to the base of the monument. Above it rises a red‑brick block, solid and fortress‑like, echoing the medieval stronghold that once stood across the water. Running around the upper part is a sculpted frieze of fish and stylised waves, a nod to the Øresund strait and the herring fisheries that enriched Copenhagen in Absalon’s day. Other decorative bands weave in Viking‑inspired ornament, fusing Christian bishop and Nordic warrior in one narrative. On the front you can spot a shield with a rosy cross and crossed keys, referencing Absalon’s role as Bishop of Roskilde and his authority within the Danish church.Commemorating the city’s founder
Absalon lived from 1128 to 1201 and rose to become archbishop and chief adviser to King Valdemar I. From this powerful position he promoted territorial expansion in the Baltic, strengthened royal authority and encouraged closer ties between Denmark and Rome. His decision to build a fortress on the low islet that would become Copenhagen fixed the city’s strategic importance at the entrance to the Baltic Sea. The statue was commissioned as a gift to the city by banker Axel Heide, with sculptor Vilhelm Bissen responsible for the equestrian figure and architect Martin Nyrop designing the plinth. Their collaboration produced a piece that is both memorial and urban landmark, anchoring Højbro Plads within Copenhagen’s broader story of monarchy, church and maritime trade.A focal point in Højbro Plads
Højbro Plads itself was laid out after the devastating fire of 1795 as part of a reconstruction plan that opened up the dense medieval streets with a broad, airy square. Today the space links the Strøget pedestrian thoroughfare with the canal and Højbro Bridge, framed by neoclassical facades and lines of lime trees. The constant flow of cyclists, shoppers and street performers passes directly around the base of Absalon’s horse. From the statue you can look toward Christiansborg’s tower, the canal and nearby spires, using the monument as a convenient orientation point in the city centre. Seasonal events, including markets and festivals, often fill the square, but the statue remains a steady visual anchor amid changing decorations and stalls.Experiencing the sculpture up close
Standing beside the plinth, details emerge that are easy to miss from a distance: the texture of Absalon’s chain mail, the tension in the horse’s muscles, and the inscription band bearing the dates “1128 ABSALON 1201.” Around the sides, a scrolling text in Danish praises him as brave, clever, visionary and devoted to learning, offering a succinct character sketch in stone. Because the statue is completely outdoors and always accessible, it can be appreciated in different lights and seasons, from crisp winter mornings to long Scandinavian summer evenings. Whether you pause briefly on a city stroll or sit at the granite base to absorb the square’s ambience, Bishop Absalon’s monument offers both a snapshot of Danish history and a striking piece of urban sculpture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
Holmens Bro
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A modest granite arch in central Copenhagen that quietly connects Slotsholmen’s palaces with the city’s streets, offering classic harbour views and everyday urban life.
The Danish Parliament
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Where copper spires, royal salons and granite façades frame the working heart of Danish democracy on Copenhagen’s historic Island of Power.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
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A quiet yet powerful royal monument in Christiansborg’s riding ground, uniting a pivotal Danish king with the groundbreaking sculptor who cast him in bronze.
Varehuset Messen
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A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Jorcks Passage
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Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
The War Museum
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Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
Nytorv 2
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Where Copenhagen’s Neoclassical courthouse meets a centuries-old market square, blending solemn civic history with the everyday buzz of the old city.
Kongens Nytorv
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Historic observatory in Aarhus combining hands-on stargazing, interactive astronomy exhibits, and tranquil parkland with panoramic city views.
The Round Tower
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Wilhelm Hansens Hus
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Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Gammeltorv
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Discover Copenhagen's only Russian Orthodox Church, renowned for its gilded domes, lavish icons, and evocative ties to Denmark's royal and multicultural heritage.
C.F. Tietgens Hus
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Unmissable attractions to see
Højbro Plads
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A historic canal in central Copenhagen, Frederiksholms Kanal blends royal heritage, elegant facades, and tranquil waterways in the heart of the Danish capital.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
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A submerged family of bronze beneath Højbro Bridge brings an old Danish ballad of love, faith and abandonment to life in the heart of historic Copenhagen.
Højbro Pl.
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Open, airy and steeped in history, Højbro Plads is Copenhagen’s neoclassical city living room between canal, palace views and busy pedestrian streets.
Ved Stranden
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Copenhagen’s famous waterfront promenade blending royal history, iconic monuments, and scenic strolls along the city’s vibrant harborside.
Stromma Canal Tours
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Discover the world of 'Nordic gold' at the Copenhagen Amber Museum, where history, science, and stunning amber artifacts meet in Nyhavn’s oldest house.
Segway Tours Copenhagen
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Strikingly modern, immersive, and acoustically exceptional, DR Koncerthuset is Copenhagen's world-renowned concert hall and a must-visit for music and architecture lovers.
Stork Fountain
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Bask in the serene Baltic ambiance of Rødvig Beach on South Zealand—an inviting stretch of sand with sweeping views of Stevns Klint and local Danish charm.
Læderstræde
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A cosy Old Town side street where rebuilt 18th‑century townhouses, Danish design boutiques and laid‑back cafés create a calm, human‑scaled alternative to busy Strøget.
Gammel Strand
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A historic Copenhagen harbourfront where Viking-age roots, colourful 18th‑century facades and a contemporary art centre meet beside the city’s central canal.
Nikolaj Art Gallery
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Medieval church transformed into a beacon of experimental contemporary art in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Amagertorv
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Copenhagen’s historic marketplace turned elegant pedestrian square, where storks, cobblestones and centuries‑old facades meet modern design and city life.
Strøget
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Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Christiansborg Palace
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Stroll along Frederiksholms Kanal, the elegant Copenhagen waterway flanked by historic palaces and vibrant cultural landmarks at the heart of Indre By.
Thorvaldsens Museum
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Denmark’s first public art museum, Thorvaldsens Museum blends neoclassical sculpture, vivid architecture, and tranquil courtyards into one immersive urban sanctuary.
Balderdash
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Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Maven
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Distinctive Scandinavian dining in the soaring nave of a former church, Restaurant Maven offers inventive cuisine and fine wine in Copenhagen's historic Indre By.
Marv & Ben
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Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
Restaurant Tight
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Cozy multi-level townhouse restaurant in Copenhagen’s Old Town serving Nordic cuisine with a sunny southern twist, generous portions and a warm, brick-and-beam atmosphere.
King Hans Cellar
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Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
Restaurant 1733
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Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
Københavner Cafeen
0.3 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Restaurant Sole D’Italia - København
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Classic stone-oven pizzas and familiar Italian favourites served on one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric squares in the heart of the old town.
Llama
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Latin American flavors, bold cocktails and patterned-tile design bring Peruvian and Mexican energy to a lively, late-night restaurant just off Kongens Nytorv.
Restaurant Kronborg
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Warm, candlelit hygge in Copenhagen’s old town, where classic Danish smørrebrød, hearty lunches and aquavit bring traditional flavors to a cosy side-street dining room.
l’Alsace
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Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
Wining and Dining
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French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Marchal
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Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
Restaurant Puk
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Historic Danish restaurant in Indre By, Copenhagen, serving classic smørrebrød and comfort dishes in a centuries-old setting with authentic local atmosphere.
Frank
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A candlelit Copenhagen luxury bistro where an open kitchen, bold seasonal cooking and an exceptional wine list create an intimate, wine-lover’s evening.
Det Lille Apotek
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Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Danish Souvenirs & Luggages
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Central Strøget gift shop combining classic Danish souvenirs with practical luggage and bags, perfectly placed for a quick browse between Old Town sights.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
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Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
Hygge Original
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A cozy Danish design shop on Amagertorv, offering hygge-inspired clothing, textiles and gifts in a calm, Scandinavian setting amid Copenhagen’s busiest streets.
Magnolias
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A compact, upscale secondhand boutique on Købmagergade, Magnolias blends Copenhagen chic with curated pre-loved designer fashion in the city’s historic shopping heart.
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.
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.
& Other Stories
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Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Audrey Vintage
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Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
Akimbo
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A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
Magasin du Nord
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Experience Danish elegance, international fashion, and gourmet food in Copenhagen’s historic Magasin du Nord—an iconic department store blending tradition and style since 1894.
Norse Store
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Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
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.
Norse Projects
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Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
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A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
The Bird and The Churchkey
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Lord Nelson Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
Ruby
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An unmarked 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade hides Ruby, a quietly glamorous cocktail institution where inventive drinks meet candlelit canal-side charm.
Godt Øl
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Cosy basement craft beer bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pouring 12 rotating taps in a low-key, conversation-friendly setting from mid-afternoon until late night.
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.
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.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
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Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
The Jane
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Mad Men–style speakeasy meets late-night dance floor in a warren of hidden rooms, leather sofas and cocktail-fuelled energy beneath 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.
Strøm
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Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
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.
Bæst Cocktailbar
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Intimate basement cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pairing creative drinks with warm lighting, easygoing music and a sociable late-night city-centre vibe.
Luke's Bar
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Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Chateau Motel
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Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lusso
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A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
Hive
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Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Mini Bar
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Rumors
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Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
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Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
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Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Club Mambo
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Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
La Terraza
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Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Dorsia
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Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Arch
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
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Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Cosy Bar
0.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Car-Free Access
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
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Business Friendly
