Havnen – Copenhagen’s Coolest neighborhood
All the best spots.
The waterfront – or Havnen as it is called in Danish – was named one of the world’s 40 coolest neighborhoods by Time Out in 2023. With good reason. In Havnen, there are simply lots of great eateries, architectural masterpieces and cool outdoor spaces where you can hang out with the locals.
It was in 2015 that the municipality of Copenhagen decided to develop the green and blue spaces of the city over the coming decade and since then, the waterfront has blossomed with urban spaces for both relaxation and physical activities, restaurants and modern architecture in line with its surroundings. Even the water quality in the harbor is of such a high standard that the locals go swimming all year round.
From Nordhavn in the north to Sydhavn in the south, the waterfront stretches out about ten kilometers (six miles), but with the public harbor bus servicing the whole area it is easy to jump on and off wherever you want to explore. Another great way to get around is the Danish way, by bicycle.
The two ends of the waterfront – Nordhavn and Sydhavn – are the most newly developed and modern areas, while the center part is a charming mix of historic buildings and new architectural gems. Each area has its own charm and comes with the amazing cuisine, culture and laid-back vibe that Copenhagen is known for. Here are our favorite spots in Havnen.
Where to eat
Burgers of all kinds
POPL Burger
Welcome to the home of the Noma burger. Located right by the bridge to Nyhavn, this restaurant serves a variety of burgers such as organic beef, fish, deer, lion’s mane or vegetarian – and they do not disappoint. The décor is inspired by Japanese izakaya bars with an open and warm Scandinavian feeling.
Heavenly Danish pastries
Hart Bageri
Sourdough bread, cardamom croissants or the local tebirkes (pastry with poppy seeds) and fastelavnsboller (a seasonal pastry with cream and jam) are some of the heavenly baked goods at the bakery of Richard Hart, formerly at Tartine in San Francisco, and René Redzepi, the founder of Noma. Stop by for some of the best pastries and bread you will ever try in your life.
Japan meets Denmark
Sushi Anaba
One of the best sushi restaurants in Copenhagen is located on a dock in Nordhavn and fits just eight people. After having worked in Japan, the Danish chef and owner Mads Battefeld is combining the Japanese sushi style edomae with the incredible seafood from the Nordic oceans.
Italian and local
Cecconi’s
In the iconic customs house right in the center of Copenhagen, you will find the member’s club Soho House. Their Northern Italian restaurant Cecconi’s is from April 2024 open to the public as well. In between the more traditional Italian courses on the menu, like spaghetti lobster or cacio e pepe, you will also find locally inspired dishes. During summer time, make sure to grab a table outside and watch the world go by.
Get to know the locals
La Banchina
A small farm-to-table restaurant and wine bar with just 14 seats inside, but on sunny days the pontoon is filled with locals and tourists alike drinking natural wine while enjoying the weather and jumping in the water. This is a great spot for people watching and getting to know the locals. The on-site sauna is genius for the adventurous winter swimmers.
Places to visit
For architecture lovers
Dansk Arkitektur Center
The impressive building BLOX, designed by the international architectural firm OMA, has been a significant part of the transformation of the waterfront. It houses the Danish Architecture Center (DAC), which features both a permanent exhibition on Danish architectural heritage and changing exhibitions related to sustainable architecture, urban planning, and more. The building itself is a modern work of art and can be explored independently.
Modern art for the whole family
Copenhagen Contemporary
What used to be the welding hall of a shipyard is now a massive contemporary art space with changing exhibitions by international artists such as Bill Viola, Yoko Ono, Anselm Kiefer and Carsten Höller. It is a great place to spend an afternoon, and on the weekends their workshop for kids is open.
The best bathing spot
Kalvebod Bølge
Although you can jump in the water at most places along the waterfront, this is a great place to take a dip in the refreshing Danish ocean water. You will meet the locals here come rain or come shine. Or snow. Or frost. In the summer, there are afternoon DJ sessions on the weekends, drawing a fun crowd.
The best hotels
Sweeping views of the city skyline
NH Collection Copenhagen
Located right by the landmark bridge, Knippelsbro, this five-star hotel has only been open since 2021. The room décor is kept in an updated, warm, and elegant style from the 1960s, when the building was originally constructed. The jewel in the crown is the rooftop bar on the eighth floor, offering sweeping views toward the city center and the Copenhagen skyline, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings.
A very Copenhagen experience
Kaj Hotel
If you are into the life aquatic, this is the place to stay. Kaj Hotel is, according to the owners, not a hotel, nor a houseboat, but something in between. But one thing is certain: It is a true Copenhagen experience staying on a two-story chic houseboat in the center of the city – with amazing views. Kaj hotel also has kayaks at your disposal for exploring the city’s waterways.
Soft and quiet charm
Audo House
In a building dating back to 1918, Audo House is a stylish addition to the otherwise modern area of Nordhavn. It was created by the Danish interior brand Audo in their own domicile and the multifunctional house works both as a showroom for the brand, as well as a hotel, shop and restaurant. Staying away from the city center has its quiet charm, especially in this soft minimalist home-like hotel.
Text by Anne Christine Persson