Two Unique Hotels in Copenhagen To Consider in the Winter
Last Updated on March 25, 2025 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 epitomize the city’s multifaceted personality: each telling a different story, each offering a unique window into Danish hospitality.
My usual meticulous research took a backseat this time, with a trusted friend handling the hotel selections. The primary challenge? Finding hotels with double beds. A seemingly simple requirement that proved surprisingly complex in this Nordic capital.
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Key Considerations When Choosing Your Hotel in Copenhagen
While the city is a walkable (mainly bikeable) friendly place, selecting the perfect accommodation in Copenhagen requires more than just a quick online search. Your hotel choice can dramatically shape your entire travel experience. Proximity to city attractions isn’t just about convenience—it’s about maximizing your Copenhagen experience. Consider some of these factors:
- 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, especially if you’re planning late-night explorations
- Room uniqueness and comfort
- Additional amenities like complimentary services
- Budget and desired luxury level
Hotel Kong Arthur
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!
Address: Nørre Søgade 11, 1370 København, Denmark
1 Hotel Copenhagen (Formerly Hotel Skt. Petri)
Pronounced ‘Saint’, Skt. Petri 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 is a nuanced dialogue between Scandinavian minimalism and subtle Middle Eastern influences that is apparent everywhere. Gold, deep blue, and emerald create a color palette that speaks of sophistication. Every corner feels intentional, from the parquet flooring to the strategically placed design elements that invite curiosity.
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.
Address: Krystalgade 22, 1172 København K, Copenhagen, Denmark
Which Hotel in Copenhagen Would You Choose?
While both hotels offer exceptional experiences, 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.
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