Klosterkælderen: Roskilde’s Iconic Cellar Bar of Heritage and Atmosphere
Historic cellar bar in the heart of Roskilde known for its atmospheric setting, diverse beer selection, and warm, welcoming crowd—where Danish culture meets conviviality.
4.6
Tucked away beneath the historic streets of Roskilde, Klosterkælderen is a beloved cellar bar known for its robust beer selection, cozy ambiance, and links to the city's monastic past. Guests are greeted by warm, brick-lined vaults, candlelight, and a lively crowd of locals and visitors. The bar’s unique character and rotating selection of both Danish craft and international brews have made it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Danish hygge, evening socializing, or a memorable night out in Roskilde.
A brief summary to Klosterkælderen
- Store Gråbrødrestræde 23, Roskilde, 4000, DK
- +4531171114
- Visit website
- Monday 2 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 2 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2 am
- Saturday 11 am-2 am
Local tips
- Arrive early on weekends if you want a seat—this spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors.
- Ask the staff about the latest local brews on tap—rotating selections highlight Danish microbreweries.
- Bring cash or a major credit card, as smaller bars can occasionally have issues with international payment methods.
- Keep an eye out for themed nights or live music, especially on Fridays.
- If traveling with friends, sharing a table is common and a great way to meet locals.
Discover more about Klosterkælderen
Klosterkælderen is more than just a bar—it is a living piece of Roskilde’s urban tapestry, nestled in the cellar of a centuries-old building at the heart of the city. Entering through its understated entrance, you step down into a labyrinth of brick vaults whose origins are intimately tied to the monastic traditions of Roskilde. ‘Klosterkælderen’ translates to ‘the Monastery Cellar,’ evoking a time when such spaces housed brewing monks and stored their legendary ales.
The low ceilings, flickering candles, and original stonework create an atmosphere enormously rich in character and warmth. The vibe is quintessentially Danish—friendly, unfussy, and heavy on hygge, making it equally popular with Roskilde locals, university students, and inquisitive travellers in the know. The staff are passionate about beer and happy to introduce you to the ever-rotating collection of local Danish microbrews, classic European favorites, and noteworthy international selections. With over a dozen taps and a broad bottle menu, every visit can yield new discoveries, from robust stouts to refreshing pale ales.
Live music sessions and occasional quiz nights add to the fun. There’s no need for a dress code—the crowd is diverse and always up for conversation. You might find yourself sampling a new craft brew in a candlelit alcove or chatting with regulars who’ll recount Roskilde tales both ancient and modern. And while the focus tiptoes around the art of beer, non-beer drinkers will still feel welcome thanks to a considered range of ciders and spirits.
Klosterkælderen’s enduring reputation isn’t just built on great drinks and atmosphere. Its location beneath the lively lanes of central Roskilde means it becomes an excellent meeting point after afternoons spent exploring the town’s cathedral or the Viking Ship Museum. With moderate prices by Danish standards, it’s an inviting refuge for those seeking genuine local life, small-group gatherings, or that classic moment of Scandinavian conviviality.
