An art lover’s guide to Copenhagen
Tucked away in the heart of Scandinavia, Copenhagen offers a world of excitement, from its canals weaving through historic neighbourhoods with bike-friendly lanes and cute cafés, to its out-of-this-world design scene. The city has evolved into a hotspot for creative minds, whether you’re in search of world-class galleries or contemporary street art with an edge, it boasts a diverse cultural landscape that leaves you feeling inspired. Plus, Copenhagen’s culinary scene and stylish accommodations (which are truly Grand Designs style) only add to its charm. As we explored the city, we put together a guide to help you discover the best places to stay, dine, and immerse yourself…
Where to stay…
Villa Copenhagen isn’t your run-of-the-mill hotel – it’s a mixture of classic architecture and contemporary design that pulls in the fashion, art, and music crowd. Weekends here come alive with a DJ setting the vibe in the iconic communal space. But it’s more than just a hotel, Villa Copenhagen is all about making a positive impact on the world, and they take eco-friendly initiatives to heart. Situated at the bustling crossroads of Bernstorffsgade and Tietgensgade, it’s not just a place to stay, it’s a community-driven hub that makes you feel like a local in the heart of the Scandi capital. Housed in a former Danish Post and Telegraph office, the rooms were charming with original wooden beams, giving country chic vibes, and also offering king sized beds with pillows so comfortable waking up was a real struggle. In the mornings we took a dip in the rooftop pool, which was a breeze to access with hourly slots, ensuring it’s never too crowded. It’s the perfect way to kick start your day before grabbing one of the hotel’s bicycles and setting off to explore the city. Speaking of exploration, if you’re on the hunt for the best pastries (according to us), look no further than Rug Bakery. Here, Danish baking traditions get a modern twist, resulting in irresistibly addictive pastries. Plus, it’s a well-kept secret among the locals, so you’ll be in the know.
The Darling is the ultimate spot for art and design enthusiasts. It started as a single-residence hotel but quickly evolved into the ultimate destination, completely redefining what we thought hospitality could be. The guest house is all about crafting an experience that’s anything but ordinary. The atmosphere here is like stepping into a perfectly designed home with a dash of sophistication that hits all the right notes. The owners have a talent for seamlessly blending timeless Danish heritage design with the exciting world of contemporary Danish art. And now, with The Classic, they’re extending an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where art, design, and luxury harmoniously collide in the best possible way. Both The Grand and The Classic are like treasure troves of Danish design icons, handpicked from heritage brands, visionary designers, and architects. Every little detail, from the plush towels to the beauty products, the sleek leather storage boxes, and even their signature cocktail, is chosen to ensure that your stay at The Darling is nothing short of unforgettable.
Where to eat…
If you’re ready to go big and push the boat out (it’s worth every penny), Kadeau is a force not to be reckoned with! Here, you’ll experience a thoughtfully crafted, multi-course dining adventure, with chefs at the forefront, personally presenting their creations in an open kitchen. The owner, a Bornholm native, infuses the essence of the island’s ingredients into every dish. When it comes to service, expect a serene and well-paced experience, delivered with finesse. The dining room itself is a design piece, offering an intimate setting with warm Scandi wood tones and an artistic display of pickling jars. Kadeau invites guests to explore a transformative gastronomic journey, where each meal pays homage to the land that inspires it. Among the standout dishes, the Oyster Pie is a highlight, and it shares the limelight with the prawn and a cauliflower dish that practically dissolves in your mouth, leaving a lingering taste that stayed with us long after our visit.
Høst, whose name beautifully encapsulates the Danish word for harvest, welcomes guests to its contemporary yet rustic space. The restaurant has a menu that offers a five or three course wine pairing menu with a focus on seasonal greens, alongside Nordic fish, and shellfish, all with bold flavours. One of its standout dishes is the Baked cod with broccoli and blue mussel sauce. Located within a classic Copenhagen building at the crossroads of Nørre Farimagsgade and Ahlefeldtsgade, its exposed brick walls and Danish mid-century furniture oozes with understated elegance. Høst has clinched prestigious design awards, including the ‘World’s Best Designed Restaurant’ at the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards, making it an unmissable spot in the heart of Denmark’s capital. The dishes served were not just visually pleasing but packed a punch of flavours that pushed the boundaries of taste.
Nestled in Copenhagen’s lively meatpacking district, Vesterbro, Kødbyens Fiskebar is a symbol of the area’s transformation from an old butcher’s shop into a bustling restaurant. It has an industrial-chic style and a menu that celebrates fresh seafood, featuring the latest catches. Despite its unassuming exterior, Kødbyens Fiskebar draws a diverse crowd that reflects its menu’s popularity. Head chef Jamie Lee, with experience from Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, brings his fish-cooking expertise to the table, crafting dishes like crayfish with a fennel emulsion. With a focus on locally sourced seafood and a well-curated wine selection, this restaurant is a hidden gem where history and contemporary dining meet in Copenhagen’s vibrant food scene – don’t forget to try their signature oysters!
Brasserie Kontrast, based within Villa Copenhagen, is a must try, offering a wine pairing that elevates your dining experience to the next level. This dining hotspot seamlessly combines the trendy charm of Vesterbro with the inner city’s elegance, and sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here, it’s a way of life. The menu proudly features locally sourced ingredients, showing their commitment to great taste and a greener planet. But let’s talk about that veal on the menu, which was paired with a rich red wine that was so leathery and smooth, it’s up there with the best wine pairing we had on the trip, and to top it all off, step outside after your meal and sink into plush pillows, where you can relax and take in the lively street scene—the perfect conclusion to an evening full of indulgence.
For your cultural fix…
The Danish Design Museum is a fantastic starting point for your design journey. It offers insights into the significant impact that Denmark and other countries have had on the world of design. Whether you’re a beginner or a design expert, this museum provides a comprehensive view of design throughout the ages.
The Danish Architecture Centre is more than just an architectural museum, it’s an exploration of past, present, and future architecture. It’s not only a place to observe but also to engage with exhibitions. Families can enjoy hands-on experiences, making it an ideal destination for those interested in furniture design and architecture.
The Copenhagen Amber Museum is a historical treasure, dating back to 1606. It’s one of Copenhagen’s oldest buildings and houses a substantial collection of ‘Nordic Gold,’ also known as amber. Visitors can explore amber pieces with preserved prehistoric insects and shop for Amber Jewellery, skilfully crafted with enamels, gold, and silver. The museum also provides insights into the world of Georg Jensen, renowned for its home decor, accessories, and jewellery.
The National Gallery of Denmark, known as Statens Museum for Kunst, houses an extensive collection of ‘Danish and international artworks’ spanning several centuries. It’s an excellent destination for those interested in history and contemporary art trends, offering a comprehensive view of art history within Copenhagen’s city centre.
