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The Library Bar

Historic cocktail bar with literary charm, live jazz, and timeless elegance in Copenhagen.

★★★★★4.4 (732)

A historic cocktail bar housed in Copenhagen Plaza, The Library Bar exudes vintage elegance with Chesterfield armchairs, leather-bound books, and oil paintings evoking a bygone era. Known for expertly crafted cocktails inspired by literary themes and live jazz performances on weekends, this intimate venue offers an atmospheric escape in the heart of Copenhagen. Reservations recommended, especially for larger groups.

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A brief summary to Library Bar

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Bernstorffsgade 4, Copenhagen, København V, 1570, DK
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Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
💷
Luxury
🏛
Indoor
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Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Tuesday
5 pm-12 am
Wednesday
5 pm-12 am
Thursday
5 pm-12 am
Friday
5 pm-1 am
Saturday
5 pm-1 am

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    Getting There

    Metro & Walking

    Take the Copenhagen Metro Line M1 or M2 toward Vestamager or Vanløse and exit at Vesterport Station. From the station, The Library Bar is approximately 5 minutes on foot via Bernstorffsgade. The walk is straightforward and well-lit, passing through the central Vesterbro district. No parking concerns with this option.

    Bus & Walking

    Multiple bus routes serve the area, including lines 1A, 6A, and 14 which stop near Vesterport or Ved Vesterport. Journey times from central Copenhagen range from 8–15 minutes depending on your starting point. Exit at Vesterport and walk approximately 3–5 minutes to Bernstorffsgade. Buses run frequently throughout the day and evening.

    Taxi or Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, FreeNow) are readily available throughout Copenhagen. Travel time from Nyhavn or Tivoli is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between 80–150 DKK from central locations. This option is convenient for evening visits when carrying drinks or arriving with a group.

    Bicycle

    Copenhagen's extensive cycle network makes reaching Bernstorffsgade accessible by bike from most city locations. Journey time from Nyhavn is approximately 12–15 minutes. Bike parking is available near the venue. This is a popular option for locals and fits Copenhagen's cycling culture.

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    Local tips

    Reserve a table in advance, especially for groups of 8 or more, to ensure seating and avoid disappointment during peak hours.
    Visit on Friday or Saturday evenings from 8:30 PM onwards to experience live jazz performances by the resident house band.
    Budget accordingly—cocktails range from approximately 100 DKK for classic drinks to 160 DKK for house creations, reflecting premium pricing.
    Arrive early in the evening (4:00 PM opening) for a quieter atmosphere and better chance of securing preferred seating without reservation.
    Dress smartly; the bar's refined ambiance and clientele lean toward smart-casual or formal attire.

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    A Portal to Vintage Elegance

    The Library Bar is a meticulously curated cocktail destination that transports visitors to an era of refined sophistication. Located within Copenhagen Plaza on Bernstorffsgade, the bar's interior design draws heavily from early 20th-century aesthetics, with walls lined with leather-bound books and first editions creating an intimate, scholarly atmosphere. Chesterfield armchairs invite guests to settle in for an evening of contemplation, while oil paintings of historical figures gaze down from above, adding layers of character and narrative to the space. Every detail—from the carefully selected spirits to the ambient lighting—has been thoughtfully orchestrated to create an experience that feels both timeless and exclusive.

    Cocktails as Literary Art

    The bar's cocktail program stands as one of Copenhagen's most celebrated. Drinks are inspired by books and literary themes, with both classic cocktails and house creations featuring prominently on the menu. Bartenders approach their craft with theatrical precision, treating each drink as a performance piece. Signature cocktails showcase premium spirits, including an extensive selection of single malts and champagne that have formed the bar's foundation since its opening in the 1970s. The attention to detail in presentation and preparation elevates the drinking experience beyond mere consumption into a form of edible art.

    Jazz as the Heartbeat

    Music has been integral to The Library Bar's identity since its inception. Live jazz performances take place every Friday and Saturday evening from 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM, featuring the bar's resident jazz house band. The intimate setting creates an ideal environment for devoted jazz enthusiasts, with the small venue ensuring that performances feel personal and immersive. The bar's musical legacy is significant enough that Danish musician Thomas Blachman and his orchestra recorded their album "At the Plaza – The Library Bar Concerts" here, marking the first Danish album released on the legendary Verve Records label.

    From Cigar Lounge to Modern Cocktail Institution

    Before Denmark's smoking ban in 2007, The Library Bar was renowned as Copenhagen's premier cigar lounge, attracting connoisseurs seeking the finest tobacco experiences. While cigars are no longer part of the offering, the bar has successfully evolved into a destination focused on exquisite service and extraordinary cocktails. This transition reflects a broader shift in hospitality culture while maintaining the bar's core identity as a venue for discerning guests seeking quality and atmosphere. The establishment's longevity and continued relevance speak to its ability to adapt without losing its essential character.

    An Exclusive Setting for Special Occasions

    The Library Bar's distinctive aesthetic has made it a sought-after location for private events, music videos, film scenes, and photography shoots. The bar can be rented outside regular opening hours for exclusive use, while the associated banquet space accommodates larger gatherings during operating hours. This dual-purpose capability allows the venue to serve both intimate evening cocktails and more elaborate celebrations, making it a versatile choice for those seeking an upscale Copenhagen venue with genuine historical character and proven hospitality infrastructure.

    A brief summary to Library Bar

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