The aged brick wharves and brightly-plastered townhouses that line the quayside of Copenhagen’s Nyhavn district epitomise everything we think a north European city should be: vibrant, colourful and quaint.
The 71 Nyhavn, a lovingly converted Napoleonic-era warehouse, is possibly the best hotel to stay at if you want to immerse yourself in this buzzy waterfront location, not least the lapping, slapping waters and clinking masts of Copenhagen Harbour. The hotel’s elegant upholstery and atmospheric wooden-beamed ceilings are just as charming as the scene outside. You don’t have to wander far for more local attractions – Copenhagen’s most famous sites are just a short stroll away.
Eat
Guests at the 71 Nyhavn dine at the Restaurant Pakhuskælderen – a gourmet destination in its own right. Situated in another Nyhavn warehouse, the Pakhuskælderen begins the day with a breakfast buffet, where the seductive smells of swirls and pastries combine sweetly with the stimulating scent of coffee. Lunch and dinner are of course more savoury affairs, with the best Danish beef, pork and deliciously fresh seafood from the Øresund taking pride of place a fine French-inspired menu.
Sleep
There’s a fabulous range of rooms to choose from at 71 Nyhavn, but we recommend those with harbour views, whether you choose a Superior or slightly larger Executive room. The aptly named Executive View rooms offer both space and scenery, while larger groups should choose one of the suites on the top floors, where even more of Nyhavan can be seen.
Do
Step out of the hotel’s front doors into a wonderfully atmospheric world of cafés, restaurants and bustle. Find a table, order a cold beer (though Gammel Dansk is far more suited for winter months) and watch the world go by the quayside. Just a few minutes’ stroll away is the Amalienborg Palace, complete with bearskin-hatted soldiers on parade, and also nearby is the charming garden square of Kongens Nytorv – lovely for lingering in.
