Musen & Elefanten
Smoky, old-school Copenhagen bar and cigar hideaway where classic drinks, worn wood and late-night conversations create a timeless, slightly secret atmosphere.
Tucked into central Copenhagen’s Vestergade, Musen & Elefanten is a cozy, old-school bar and cigar lounge where time slows down in a haze of smoke and amber spirits. Spread across a snug basement and intimate upstairs rooms, it pairs dim lighting, worn wood and soft jazz or rock with beers, classic cocktails and a rare license to smoke indoors. It is as much a Copenhagen institution as a bar, attracting cigar aficionados, night owls and conversationalists lingering late into the small hours.
A brief summary to Musen & Elefanten
- Vestergade 21, Copenhagen, København K, 1456, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-12 am
- Thursday 4 pm-2 am
- Friday 4 pm-5 am
- Saturday 4 pm-5 am
Local tips
- Smoking is allowed inside and the air can get very smoky, especially late at night—non-smokers and those sensitive to smoke should be prepared.
- Arrive earlier in the evening if you prefer a calmer vibe and a better chance of finding a cozy corner before the late-night crowd builds.
- Pair a sturdy classic cocktail or dark beer with a cigar to experience the bar in its most characteristic form.
- Expect dim lighting and worn but atmospheric interiors—this is a place for mood and conversation rather than sleek design.
- The bar stays open very late on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a good option for a last stop when most other venues are closing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Musen & Elefanten 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 Musen & Elefanten
An old Copenhagen bar with a literary soul
Musen & Elefanten sits on Vestergade in the historic heart of Copenhagen, but inside it feels more like a time capsule than a typical city-center bar. The name, “The Mouse & The Elephant,” hints at a playful spirit, yet the atmosphere leans towards the contemplative: low ceilings, dark wood, soft lamplight and the gentle murmur of conversations layered over music. Tales tie the bar to generations of students, writers and philosophically inclined regulars who have treated it almost like an informal salon. Across its two levels, the space is broken into nooks and side rooms, creating small pockets of privacy where groups can settle in for long evenings. The decor is slightly scuffed rather than polished, giving the impression of a place that has been lived in and loved, not constantly redesigned to chase trends. It feels instantly familiar, even on a first visit.Cocktails, beer and the rare pleasure of a cigar
Behind the bar, the focus is on classic drinks and reliable pours rather than experimental mixology. Expect draft Danish beers, a solid list of bottles and a line-up of timeless cocktails like Old Fashioneds and sours. Spirits lean towards whiskies, rums and other brown liquors that pair naturally with tobacco, and you may find a house-favorite Belgian or Danish brew on rotation. What truly sets Musen & Elefanten apart is its status as one of Copenhagen’s few cigar-friendly indoor bars. Tobacco smoke is part of the identity here, not an afterthought. Shelves and humidors often display a small but well-chosen cigar selection, and many guests settle in specifically to match a cigar with a slow-sipped drink. The air can grow thick on busy nights, but for aficionados this is a rare urban refuge where the combination of smoke, spirits and conversation is still very much alive.Basement hideaway and upstairs gathering rooms
The layout is half the charm. The basement level feels like a hidden den: you descend into a warm, smoky glow where time blurs and the outside world recedes. A fireplace or candlelight, coupled with low-slung seating, makes it particularly welcoming on cold or rainy evenings. It is the kind of spot where you can lose track of the hour nursing the same glass. Upstairs, several compact rooms and corners create different moods. One space might be better for quiet conversation, another for a livelier group sharing rounds of beer. Wood-panelled walls, vintage posters and slightly worn furniture all contribute to an ambience that is relaxed rather than curated. You can sit at the bar for a more social experience or retreat to the side rooms if you are in the mood for something more private.Night-owl rhythms in the center of the city
Musen & Elefanten keeps hours that cater to late-night city life. Located a short stroll from Copenhagen’s main pedestrian streets and squares, it often becomes a final stop after dinner, a show or a night of wandering the old town. On Thursdays the night deepens, and weekends regularly stretch past dawn, with the bar still active while the streets outside are beginning to quiet. Inside, the crowd shifts over the evening: early hours can feel calmer and more reflective, while later at night the bar takes on a more boisterous energy as groups settle in for one more round. The mix of locals, students, cigar fans and curious travelers gives the place a cosmopolitan yet deeply local feel.Who will enjoy Musen & Elefanten most
This is not a bar for anyone seeking spotless minimalism or a smoke-free environment. Its strongest appeal is to travelers who enjoy characterful, slightly rough-around-the-edges places where atmosphere matters more than polish. Cigar smokers and fans of classic cocktails find in it a rare combination, while couples, solo visitors and small groups appreciate the intimate rooms and unhurried pace. If you are drawn to bars that feel like institutions rather than concepts—where the patina on the tables tells as many stories as the regulars at the counter—Musen & Elefanten offers a distinctly Copenhagen experience: cozy, a little eccentric, and best enjoyed slowly, drink in hand and the evening stretching ahead.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lur Blowers
0.2 km
Bronze Age horns meet early 20th‑century grandeur in this 20‑metre column, where two silent lur players keep watch over Copenhagen’s bustling City Hall Square.
H. C. Andersens Blvd.
0.3 km
A broad, bustling boulevard where Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy meets City Hall Square, Tivoli’s lights, and the everyday pulse of central Copenhagen.
Jorcks Passage
0.3 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
0.5 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Amagertorv
0.5 km
Aarhus’s University Park blends Danish modernist architecture, lush gardens, and student life into one of the city’s most tranquil and historically significant green spaces.
Gammel Strand
0.5 km
Ledreborg Park blends magnificent Baroque landscaping, palace views and serene Danish woodland for a captivating escape near Roskilde, ideal for history and nature lovers.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.5 km
Explore the world of neoclassical sculpture at Thorvaldsens Museum in Copenhagen, home to the works of Bertel Thorvaldsen and a treasure trove of art and architectural inspiration.
The Tube
0.5 km
Experience 17 immersive rooms of sensory adventure at The Tube in Copenhagen Central Station.
Frihedsstøtten
0.5 km
Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Frederiksholms Kanal
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Frederiksholms Kanal, Copenhagen's picturesque canal, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural exploration.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
0.6 km
Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Fiolstræde 42
0.6 km
Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
The Round Tower
0.6 km
Explore The Round Tower, Copenhagen's historic observatory offering stunning city views and engaging cultural exhibitions.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.6 km
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.
Copenhagen Central Station
0.6 km
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours
0.1 km
Discover masterpieces from the Danish Golden Age and European classics to contemporary art in Denmark’s largest art museum, set by Copenhagen’s serene city park.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
0.1 km
A compact oddities museum on Rådhuspladsen where shrunken heads, vortex tunnels and record‑breaking curiosities turn everyday Copenhagen into a world of wonders.
Gammeltorv
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s oldest square, where cobbles, Neoclassical facades and the Renaissance Caritas Well quietly trace eight centuries of urban life in the city’s historic core.
City Hall Square
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s grand urban living room: a historic civic square framed by City Hall, whimsical fountains, and the gateway to the pedestrian heart of the city.
Weirdwalks Byvandring
0.2 km
Stroll the storied harbor promenade, discover Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid, lush parks, and maritime sculptures along the scenic Langelinie waterfront.
Rainbow Square
0.2 km
A small city-centre plaza with a powerful rainbow dedication, Rainbow Square turns everyday pavement beside Copenhagen City Hall into a quiet landmark for LGBTQ+ equality.
Nytorv 2
0.2 km
An everyday address on Copenhagen’s historic Nytorv, placing you between grand courthouse columns, cobbled markets of old and the pulse of the Strøget pedestrian zone.
Jens Olsen's World Clock
0.2 km
Descend beneath Søndermarken Park to discover Copenhagen’s historic water cisterns, now transformed into a mesmerizing underground art museum unlike any other in Denmark.
Nytorv
0.2 km
Cobbled, compact and quietly dramatic, Nytorv blends royal-era markets, grim judicial history and Neoclassical authority at the pedestrian heart of old Copenhagen.
Copenhagen City Hall
0.2 km
Explore Denmark's Viking heritage along the scenic Skjoldungestien trail.
Statue of Andersen
0.2 km
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.
Church of Our Lady
0.2 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.3 km
Experience Copenhagen’s blend of urban cool and waterside relaxation at Islands Brygge, where harbor views, bathing, and local life come together in a thriving central district.
Magstræde
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s cobbled time capsule: a gently curving lane of colorful old houses, harbor history and quiet charm in the heart of the Old Town.
Museum of Copenhagen
0.4 km
Explore a thousand years of Copenhagen's history through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the stories of its people.
Essential places to dine
Husmanns Vinstue
0.0 km
Classic smørrebrød, candles and aquavit in a historic Copenhagen cellar devoted entirely to the long, unhurried Danish lunch.
Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen
0.1 km
Rock legends, legendary burgers, and unforgettable American dining in Copenhagen's vibrant heart.
Dubrovnik Restaurant
0.1 km
Cosy Croatian tavern in Copenhagen’s inner city, serving generous grills and rustic Adriatic comfort food in a warm, wood‑panelled dining room.
ferment, ramen izakaya
0.1 km
Intimate basement izakaya where fermentation, organic ingredients, and Nordic sensibility transform ramen and bao into deeply satisfying art.
Krebsegaarden
0.1 km
An intimate art-filled townhouse in central Copenhagen where creative tasting menus, warm storytelling service and an epic cheese course turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
Vækst
0.2 km
Greenhouse-style Nordic dining in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where seasonal vegetable-focused menus meet warm, softly lit interiors wrapped in lush foliage.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.3 km
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.
Restaurant Puk
0.3 km
Historic Danish restaurant in Indre By, Copenhagen, serving classic smørrebrød and comfort dishes in a centuries-old setting with authentic local atmosphere.
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.
Spisestedet FEED
0.4 km
Discover exquisite flavors and an inviting atmosphere at Spisestedet FEED in the heart of København.
Restaurant 1733
0.4 km
Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
Rio Bravo
0.4 km
Western‑themed Copenhagen stalwart serving hearty Danish classics and steaks late into the night in a nostalgic saloon setting off City Hall Square.
Restaurant Tight
0.4 km
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.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Warm brick-and-wood dining room in central Copenhagen serving polished Mediterranean-inspired classics, a four-course menu and easygoing evening cocktails.
Wining and Dining
0.4 km
French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Viking Souvenirs
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Danish Souvenirs
0.1 km
Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Wonderful Souvenirs
0.1 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Souvenir Shop
0.1 km
Compact, convenient and central, this Frederiksberggade souvenir shop on Strøget is a quick one‑stop for classic Copenhagen gifts and mementos.
Wasteland
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Copenhagen's eclectic pink-walled vintage boutique where sustainable fashion meets curated character.
København K
0.2 km
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.
Notre Dame
0.2 km
A cozy Copenhagen interiors institution packed with colorful Nordic homeware, thoughtful design and giftable treasures opposite the Church of Our Lady.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.2 km
Central Copenhagen’s hygge-filled stop for Scandinavian design and classic Danish souvenirs, perfectly placed on Nygade just off Strøget’s busy pedestrian flow.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
0.3 km
A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.3 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Duck Haven
0.3 km
A tiny, colourful shop in Copenhagen’s old town where hundreds of themed rubber ducks turn souvenir hunting into a playful, photo‑worthy detour.
Audrey Vintage
0.4 km
Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
Akimbo
0.4 km
A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Musen & Elefanten
0.0 km
Smoky, old-school Copenhagen bar and cigar hideaway where classic drinks, worn wood and late-night conversations create a timeless, slightly secret atmosphere.
Floss Bar
0.1 km
Copenhagen's legendary dive bar: punk rock heritage, cheap beer, and authentic character until 2 AM.
Centralhjørnet
0.2 km
One of Copenhagen’s oldest gay bars, Centralhjørnet is a cosy, festive corner pub where historic LGBTQ+ heritage meets camp décor and easy-going charm.
not your USUAL wine bar
0.2 km
Discover wines from the world's forgotten regions in Copenhagen's most unconventional wine bar.
Taphouse
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s modern beer hall, pouring 61 ever‑changing craft taps in a relaxed, Scandinavian setting just steps from the historic city center.
Bar7
0.2 km
Colorful multi-room cocktail lounge in Copenhagen’s old town, mixing bold interiors, inventive drinks and a 21+ late-night crowd over lounge beats and weekend energy.
The Scottish Pub
0.2 km
Lively Scottish‑style pub on Copenhagen’s main square, pouring pints and whisky late into the night with music, sports on TV and an easygoing, social crowd.
Proud Mary Pub
0.3 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.
Southern Cross Pub
0.3 km
Two-floor Copenhagen sports pub pouring affordable pints, wall-to-wall live games, and late-night energy in the heart of the inner city.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
The Shamrock Inn
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Shamrock Inn, Copenhagen's premier Irish pub with live music and sports entertainment.
The Rooftop Bar
0.3 km
Compact rooftop oasis atop Hotel Danmark, pairing 360-degree Copenhagen views with cocktails, bubbles and golden-hour sunsets above the city’s historic heart.
Zefside
0.4 km
Underground cocktail bar by night, pulsing nightclub by dawn—Copenhagen's shape-shifting social hub.
Luke's Bar
0.4 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.4 km
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dorsia
0.0 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
0.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Miami Bar
0.1 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
La Terraza
0.2 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Mirror
0.2 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Hive
0.2 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Chateau Motel
0.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Module
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
Club Mambo
0.3 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Never Mind
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Den Anden Side
0.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
Arch
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
0.5 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
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
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
