Where to stay in Copenhagen

Here you’ll be moments away from some of Copenhagen’s top sights and attractions, from the dominating City Hall (Radhus) to Tivoli Gardens. Climb the Radhus tower’s 300 steps either as part of a guided tour or by yourself; views from the top stretch across as far as Sweden! Tivoli Park is fun for all the family; first opened in 1843, this pleasure park combines funfair rides with cafes and strollable gardens, where you can even enjoy outdoor performances by brass bands

Once a slaughterhouse and red-light district, Vesterbro has had quite the transformation, and as such, is one of the hippest areas to stay in Copenhagen. The meat-packing district, Kodbyen, has now become the focus of trendy clubs and swish restaurants, and is one of the coolest places in Copenhagen for an enjoyable evening. While staying here, you can also take a tour of the Carlsberg Brewery, which gives a detailed insight into this strong part of local heritage.

Kongens Nytorv, or ‘King’s New Square’ dates back to 1680 and is the largest of its kind in the city, with 12 streets leading off it. The square is hemmed in by stately buildings, and at the centre is a statue of King Christian V astride his horse. This area is ideal for those looking for some high-end culture; here you’ll find the Danish Royal Theatre, Thott’s Mansion (the French Embassy housed in an ornate building) and Magasin du Nord, Scandinavia’s first and largest department store.

Copenhagen’s University Quarter retains a cosy feel while also being a lively, fun spot to base yourself in. Mooch around antique shops, gaze at historic buildings like the 16th-century Bispegarden and take advantage of al fresco dining on pedestrianized squares like Grabodretorv. Aside from a couple of stunning churches, there’s also a range of interesting museums here: the David Collection focuses on European and Islamic fine art, while the Natural History Museum of Denmark is attached to the sprawling Botanical Gardens.

If you want to be close to the water, then the nautical-hued Nyhavn (‘New Harbour’) is a great place to stay. Both sides of the canal have retained an old Copenhagen feel, complete with moored vessels, restored warehouses and an anchor that commemorates Danish soldiers who lost their lives in World War II. Among the other sights here – Amaliehavn Gardens, Amalienborg Palace, Churchill Park – there’s no missing the iconic The Little Mermaid statue, positioned just before the marina by the water’s edge.

Basing yourself near the small island of Slotsholmen (Castle Island) allows you to dedicate at least a day to visit all the different museums without worrying about a time-consuming return trip. The imposing Christiansborg castle is home to an array of collections: check out the Theatre Museum, Danish War Museum, National Museum and the Royal LIbrary.

From Radhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv, cross the Knippelbridge and into Christianshavn. There’s a wealth of Dutch architecture here that exudes an Amsterdam-like feel. On Strandgade sits Gammel Dok, a former warehouse, along with 17th- and 18th-century houses complete with cobblestone courtyards. There’s also the Vor Frelsers Kirke (Church of Our Savior) which makes for a spellbinding visit: climb the dizzying staircase, admire the white marble font which is supported by cherubs and check out the huge organ. Bringing it up to date is the 2005-opened Opera House, a modern affair both inside and out.