Copenhagen Stopover: Design, Dining, and a Detour to Lego
So grateful for the rare work trip that brings me to an international location! A visit to the Lego headquarters in Billund, Denmark to learn about ‘playful learning’ allowed for a two-day add on in Copenhagen, a beautiful city with world-class food and incredible design.
Places to stay
The Copenhagen Marriott was great for us, with wonderful water and city views and a location close enough to walk to many sites, but far enough from the city center to be quiet. If you are a Bonvoy elite or opt for a concierge level room, the executive lounge has a great breakfast with interesting Scandinavian options in the buffet.
Hotel Bethel courtyard
Fo a perfect location and budget friendly try the Hotel Bethel, a small hotel in the picturesque Nyhavn area.
71 Nyhavn is a hip and photo-worthy choice on the water in Nyhavn with a great ground level restaurant.
Open-face Smørrebrød sandwiches at Restaurant Carl Nielsen
Where to eat
For the best smorrbrod try Selma - the food here was delicious and the setting smart and casual with great service.
We tasted the prettiest smorrbrod at the more upscale Restaurant Carl Nielsen, paired with beer and Danish schnapps to start the meal.
For drinks in a trendy cocktail lounge, go to Ruby.
Entrance to the Happiness Museum
Things to do
Walk around and admire the architecture - you can see we got a kick out of documenting all of the beautiful doors.
The Happiness Museum has a ton of great data on the happiest places in the world and what drives happiness. Stop here to learn about ‘hygge’ the Danish concept of fulfillment or contentment.
Stroget pedestrian walk is a great place to people watch, shop, or stop for a drink. It’s rainy here and a stop at the danish clothing store Rains resulted in a best yet raincoat purchase!
The Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of the Danish royal family and worth walking around even if you don’t opt to get tickets for a tour.
If you can take a day trip by train from Copenhagen, it’s worth visiting Lego in nearby Billund. Lego Headquarters and Lego House is an exciting place for children and adults, featuring the history of Lego toys, with an extensive store to bring home boutiques. Come for the legos, stay for the design - lots of inspiration here if you are thinking of remodeling your home, a surprising benefit of visiting this delightful place.
If you’re lucky, you may also get an opportunity to visit the private museum Lego Idea House, with both exhibits of lego creations and original toy-making equipment.
If the day was long and you miss the train back to Copenhagen, stay at the Refborg Hotel, eat there at the sophisticated, but also quaint Spiseri, and find an abundance of unique souvenirs at the onsite shop.
Spiseri restaurant at the Refborg