Last Updated on January 8, 2026 by Erin Donahue

As a travel photographer constantly navigating the globe, I’ve learned that where you stay can make or break your experience. The Capital of Denmark, with its blend of historical charm and modern design, demands a nuanced approach to accommodation. During my one-week trip in Copenhagen, I stayed at two hotels that captured the city’s multifaceted personality, but each offered a different window into Danish hospitality.

My usual meticulous research took a backseat this time, with a trusted friend handling the hotel selections. The primary challenge was finding hotels with double beds. A seemingly simple requirement that proved surprisingly difficult.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Hotel in Copenhagen

While the city is walkable (mainly bikeable), picking the right neighborhood can dramatically shape your travel experience. Proximity to the right attractions is about maximizing your Copenhagen experience. Here are a few essential factors to keep in mind:

• Access to public transportation (Copenhagen’s metro and bus system is world-class)
• Walking distance to key attractions like Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, and the city center
• Neighborhood character: Some areas offer more local flavor, while others are more tourist-friendly
• Proximity to dining and shopping districts
• Safety of the surrounding area
• Room uniqueness and comfort
• Additional amenities like complimentary services
• Budget and desired luxury level

Hotel Kong Arthur: Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort

Address: Nørre Søgade 11, 1370 København, Denmark

First up, across the street from Peblinge Lake, I spent most of my stay at the historical Hotel Kong Arthur. Imagine stepping into a building that has witnessed over a century of Copenhagen’s evolution. This hotel is a living museum, a sanctuary that has transformed from a home for young boys in the late 19th century to a welcoming haven for global travelers.

Hotel Kong Arthur is a mid-range hotel that’s secluded but central in Nansensgade, with boho shops and cafes nearby. The property spans four interconnected buildings surrounding a central courtyard, featuring 155 unique bedrooms. Each room blends classic and contemporary furnishings, ensuring that no two stays are identical. The interiors blend Danish design principles: herringbone parquet floors gleam underneath carefully curated classic furniture, while modern art pieces break the traditional monotony. A fireplace in the lobby serves as a design element and a communal heart where travelers can relax after exploring the city.

The “Cozy Hour”

Hotel Kong Arthur offers a breakfast buffet that’s 250DKK, but I didn’t partake in that because $40 for breakfast a day would’ve burned a hole in my pocket. The staff are nice and always willing to help, like with making reservations for you, which is a must for many restaurants during Christmas time. Between 5-6 pm daily, the Hotel Kong Arthur also offers a “cozy hour”. It’s a delightful ritual where guests can enjoy complimentary drinks from options of wine, beer, iced tea, or apple juice. They’re an invitation to slow down, to embrace the Danish concept of “hygge”.

During my first night at the hotel, I ordered their espresso martini since ‘organic coffee’ was used, but a word of caution: enjoy it earlier in the day. Paired with jet lag, my sleep cycle got messed up so badly!

1 Hotel Copenhagen: Sustainable Luxury in the City Center

Address: Krystalgade 22, 1172 København K, Copenhagen, Denmark

Formerly Skt. Petri Hotel (pronounced ‘Saint’), the building was originally a department store in the 1920s. This second hotel is one of the five-star hotels in Copenhagen and aims for a laid-back luxury experience for guests. 1 Hotel Copenhagen can be found centrally located in the Latin Quarter and is a quick walk to all the main city center attractions and the transport hub of Nørreport station.

Design Philosophy

The hotel’s design feels like a dialogue between Scandinavian minimalism and subtle Middle Eastern influences. Gold, deep blue, and emerald dominate a sophisticated color palette, while every detail, from parquet flooring to lighting, feels intentional.

The room I stayed in was bigger, but it was missing that “coziness” I felt when I stayed at Hotel Kong Arthur. Beyond aesthetics, 1 Hotel Copenhagen demonstrates a commitment to mindful hospitality. Energy-conscious details like escalators that transition to sleep mode when not in use reveal a deeper philosophy of sustainable luxury.

Which Hotel in Copenhagen Would You Choose?

While both hotels offer exceptional experiences, they tell different stories. My personal preference leaned towards Hotel Kong Arthur. Its historical charm, unique room configurations, and welcoming atmosphere created a more memorable stay for me. Travel isn’t just about perfect pillows or seamless services. It’s about stories, unexpected moments, and the subtle magic of feeling momentarily at home in a foreign land.

Watch My Review of These Hotels in Copenhagen on YouTube

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FAQs About Hotels in Copenhagen

Q: What is the best area to stay in Copenhagen for first-timers?
A: The Latin Quarter and Indre By are ideal as they’re close to major attractions, restaurants, and transport links.

Q: Are hotels in Copenhagen expensive?
A: Generally, yes, but mid-range options like Hotel Kong Arthur offer strong value for money.

Q: Do Copenhagen hotels include breakfast?
A: Most do, but it’s often an add-on (and not cheap). Check before booking.

Q: Is it common to find double beds in Copenhagen hotels?
A: Surprisingly not! Always confirm when booking.