IN COPENHAGEN

I love Copenhagen. The architecture and canals make it a stunning city right off, but spend a little time there and you’ll see how it’s pulsing with style. I’ve been to Copenhagen three times including when I visited at age 10 with my family. So much is fortunately the same yet through adult eyes, I pick up on new interests – the well dressed people and fabulous design shops for starters. If not walking, I’m biking to flea markets, parks, neighborhoods, and restaurants. It’s conveniently laid out making it easy to explore. Venture a little farther out of the center and you’ll see one of my absolute favorite churches. It’s architecturally stunning in its neutral palette. And, Copenhagen is a foodie town with a long list of recommended places to dine. There’s never enough time to sample all of the restaurants but three stood out and are added to my list of favorites. In the summer with 10pm sunsets, the warm weather creates a buzzy evening mood with people gathering on the edges of the waterfront, music playing, wine flowing…everyone’s happy to be outside.

What I Packed: Everything I wore was bike friendly. It’s how you get around in Copenhagen so I never wanted to be restricted from jumping on a bike to go from A to B. La DoubleJ stretch dresses worked well. I wore them with my Birkenstocks or other flat sandals. I always carry a wrap with me. It can get chilly riding at night. Other dresses made the cut too. My trips to Copenhagen have always been during the summer months so lightweight cotton or linen dresses were in rotation. Loose jeans, printed blouses, and sneakers rounded out my travel wardrobe.

HOTELS: I’ve stayed at three hotels in Copenhagen briefly detailed below. I do a ton of research before selecting a hotel and the ultimate decision is based on several factors including purpose of visit, length of stay, time of year and reading reviews.

1. For the luxe traveler, the hotel d’Anglaterre can’t be beat. Previously a manor, the hotel was established in 1755 and remains an icon and historic landmark in Copenhagen. A lovely blend of Nordic design and traditional European style, the hotel exudes elegance. Spacious, comfortable rooms, a perfect location, and a restaurant/bar that spills out onto the sidewalk for the ultimate people watching. Loved.

2. The Skt. Petri Hotel is centrally located in the historic heart of Copenhagen bordering the lively Latin Quarter making it conveniently walkable to a multitude of restaurants and shops. The lobby hints to the building’s past as an old department store and leads to an outdoor shaded courtyard. Well priced, comfortable rooms, friendly service and a great breakfast.

3. The Villa Copenhagen is a little bit of a walk from the center of everything I like to do, but doable. I prefer having the narrow streets in the historic area right outside the door. The 1909 villa previously housed the former Danish Post and Telegraph office but has been transformed combining the past with the present. Small but comfortable rooms with high ceilings exude a Danish meets European feel. I would avoid the upgraded rooms on the top floor which felt claustrophobic with angled ceilings.

From my research, two others to consider: Hotel Sanders and 71 Nyhavn Hotel – both on the boutique side with tons of great reviews.

EAT/DRINK:

Barr – dined twice here. A modern take on traditional Northern European fare in a casual dining room (inside or out) and bar. Craft beers, great bread, and their popular grilled bone marrow (above).

HØST – My favorite restaurant in Copenhagen. Seasonal menu, Nordic ingredients, and an amazing presentation of each dish. It’s won several design awards for the beautiful yet rustic interiors. And the service is outstanding. Book ahead for a reservation!

POPL Burger – very casual with a limited menu, known for their well-crafted burgers. They are delicious but the sides earn equal praise. The team at POPL are NOMA veterans so you can expect attention to detail and the finest ingredients.

Zahida – “Modern Pakistani Gastronomy” – says it all. Pakistani spices and flavors updated with influences from the chef’s (they’re brothers) upbringing in Britain. A few signature must try dishes include Gunpowder Bites (broccoli, masala, tamarind) and the Zahida Butter Chicken.

TO DO:

Bike –  the biking culture in Copenhagen makes it easy to navigate and feel safe. Most hotels offer complimentary (or for a small fee) bikes. It’s the best way to cover a lot of ground without exhaustion.

Walk – explore the narrow cobblestone streets in the historic center, stroll through the parks or along the picturesque canals.

Boat – take an evening canal cruise either private or social (Hey Captain).

SHOP:

Holly Golightly – a fabulous multi-brand mix of fashion, jewelry, accessories and art.

Gronlund & Lefort – antique shop specializing in vintage Royal Copenhagen and other Danish porcelain and ceramics. On my list, but closed Saturday (by appointment only), Sunday, and Monday.

The Apartment – another interiors shop at the top of my list that was closed for refurbishment. Next time. Meanwhile, the online shop will give you an idea of the eclectic treasures.

Lot #29 – a treasure trove of unique local and high end brands.

By Malene Birger – love By Malene Birger clothing so it’s a treat to shop it all in one beautiful store. Upscale contemporary, Scandinavian minimalism.

Illum – one stop shopping for everything…mens, womens, children, beauty, home, food. There’s even a small market on the ground floor. Take a break from shopping at the rooftop restaurant bar.

SEE:

Thorvaldsens Museum, Louisiana, Glyptoteket

All pictures by me.