Top Bars in Copenhagen – Most Viewed (2025)

Ruby, located at Nybrogade 10 in the heart of Copenhagen’s Indre By, is a discreet yet legendary cocktail bar housed in a historic 1740 townhouse centering on beautiful canal views. Since opening on June 21, 2007, Ruby has shaped the Danish cocktail scene and earned global acclaim—from ranking #34 of The World’s 50 Best Bars (2015) to holding a spot in the top 100 as recently as 2023. You enter via an unassuming shared stairway first-floor apartment, and immediately find yourself in a bright minimalist front bar with stools—and beyond that, into a plush, dim lounge with leather armchairs, Persian rugs, and warm lighting, or a tucked‐away courtyard and basement bar on weekends. The cocktail menu pivots seasonally, offering classics and inventive house concoctions like their Gin ‘N’ Colada #2 or Sea Buckthorn Spritz, made with local Nordic ingredients (elderflower, sea buckthorn, etc.) mixed with global spirits. Service is polished yet unpretentious: skilled bartenders guide with friendliness in a relaxed, home-like ambiance. Ruby’s atmosphere blends Scandinavian elegance with comfort, making it a cozy spot for both special occasions and casual nights alike. Whether seated at the bar or lounging in a corner near the canal windows, the vibe encourages slow conversation over thoughtfully crafted drinks.

Tucked into a serene courtyard off Vesterbrogade, Lidkoeb occupies a beautifully renovated 18th-century apothecary building, radiating Scandi warmth across three distinct yet cohesive floors. Crafted by the minds behind the renowned Ruby bar, Lidkoeb invites you into a design dream featuring leather Chesterfields, herringbone brick floors, and a wood‑paneled bar framed by glowing candles and original beams. The ground floor feels like a plush café-bar hybrid—light-filled yet atmospheric—with high bench tables lining the windows, comfy leather seating, and a living fireplace that establishes a cozy, welcoming tone. Upstairs, discover more intimate spaces: a middle floor assembly room ideal for gatherings and a dimly lit top‑floor lounge that nearly whispers whisky devotion. Here, vintage bottles line the walls, and the atmosphere becomes quietly sophisticated—a haven for slow sipping and soft conversations. When weather allows, step into the secluded courtyard—a hidden gem perfect for warm evenings and crisp drinks al fresco. Cocktail lovers are in good hands: Lidkoeb’s menu blends reimagined classics (like a peanut‑butter‑washed Old Fashioned) with inventive originals such as the Tommy Tank (featuring Tanqueray, rosé vermouth, cherry tomato jam, egg white, and soda). For the whisky curious, Friday and Saturday evenings bring dedicated whisky‑flight service in the upper rooms. With generous opening hours—opening daily from the afternoon into early morning—it’s the perfect retreat for an after‑work drink, a cozy weekend evening, or spirited late‑night conversations. Lidkoeb isn’t just a bar—it’s a layered sensory experience, balancing timeless design, thoughtful drinks, and Scandinavian hygge across floors and moods that invite you to linger.

Tucked into a historic building from 1732 on Valkendorfsgade, Balderdash is anything but ordinary. Behind its unassuming façade lies a bar that's part gallery, part cocktail lab, and all personality. The brainchild of American expat Geoffrey Canilao, this ever‑evolving venue defies categorization—and that’s the point. As Visit Copenhagen puts it, “it is difficult to define the concept of Balderdash. Geoffrey wants that you as a guest define the concept that suits your visit at the bar”. Whether you're sitting in the cozy lounge or peeking into the spirits lab upstairs, you're part of a sensory experiment. Cocktails embrace both culinary creativity and Danish hygge ethos—think seasonal concoctions like the ‘Strawberry‑Foie Gras Old Fashioned’ or playfully audacious drinks like the “Let’s Get Weird Martini” (cheese‑puff distillate), “Mushroom Alexander” with grated deer heart, or ice‑cream floats topped with truffle‑hazelnut and bacon salt. The menu is ever-changing and fearless: horseradish‑perfumed martinis, bone‑marrow Old Fashioneds, savory milkshakes with wax moth larvae, charred tomato‑strawberry gazpacho tonics—the concoctions read like a mad scientist’s journal blending flavor, art, and a dash of audacity. Beyond cocktails, the experience includes pop‑up restaurants, gallery exhibitions, and a laboratory for experimenting with fermentation and local ingredients—which may be why reviewers call it "undoubtedly the best bar we've visited in the world," praising its ambience, staff, and unmatched creative cocktails. In short, Balderdash is more than a bar—it’s an evolving cultural experiment that delights the curious, rewards those open to the unexpected, and exudes that uniquely Scandinavian cozy‑meets‑avant‑garde charm.

Nestled under Copenhagen's iconic Knippelsbro bridge, Kayak Bar is a unique fusion of bar, café, and cultural hub. Its prime location on the canal's edge provides patrons with stunning waterfront views and a relaxed atmosphere. The venue boasts a floating beach, offering a distinctive spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu while lounging by the water, creating a serene dining experience. Beyond its culinary offerings, Kayak Bar is renowned for its vibrant events, including live music performances, yoga sessions, and cultural festivals. For the adventurous, kayak rentals are available, allowing visitors to explore Copenhagen's canals firsthand. Whether you're seeking a leisurely drink by the water, an active day of kayaking, or a lively evening of music and dance, Kayak Bar caters to all. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural events, and recreational activities makes it a must-visit destination in Copenhagen.

Tucked beneath the cobblestones of Copenhagen’s historic Gråbrødretorv square, The Jane offers a unique blend of vintage sophistication and modern nightlife. Inspired by the sleek aesthetics of the Mad Men era, this 340-square-meter venue features plush Chesterfield sofas, dark wood interiors, and an inviting fireplace, creating an atmosphere of understated glamour. What sets The Jane apart are its hidden doors concealed behind bookshelves, leading to secret rooms and additional bars, adding an element of intrigue and discovery to your evening. The cocktail menu is both classic and inventive, with offerings like the Moroccan Mint Tea Mojito and Espresso Martini, all priced around 60 DKK. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, bottle service is available, delivered with flair by attentive staff. As the night progresses, The Jane transforms into a vibrant nightclub, with DJs spinning a mix of disco, funk, and deep house tracks that keep the dance floor energized until the early hours. The venue attracts a stylish crowd, and while the dress code leans towards smart-casual, the emphasis is on enjoying the eclectic ambiance and excellent service. Open on Fridays and Saturdays from 20:00 to 04:00, The Jane is a must-visit for those looking to experience Copenhagen's nightlife with a touch of mystery and elegance.

Hidden in Copenhagen’s lively Vesterbro district, Curfew unfolds as a seductive speakeasy nestled behind a secret bookshelf entrance—once a bookstore in 1919. Inside, the atmosphere is rich with retro swagger: vintage tilt, low lighting, soulful blues and swing vinyl, and a touch of 1920s glamour. Owner and head bartender Humberto Saraiva Marques—a seasoned mixologist with experience from prestigious global hotels—welcomes guests into what feels like a private collector’s lounge. Antique shaker gear, original Coles hand-crank machines, and a Ferris wheel-style mixer lend the place both authenticity and theatrical flair. The cocktail menu flows between classic staples and imaginative seasonal creations. Signature drinks like the “Seven Wonders” series showcase inventive combinations—picture Scotch with plum, five-spice honey, Madeira, and ginger wine in Great Wall of China; or a literary riff like Lolita blending gin, apple-and-sage marmalade, chocolate spirit, and hazelnut milk. Their approach balances sophistication with narrative whimsy. Seating is comfortable and thoughtfully arranged—green leather sofas, wood tables, and iron barstools, all set against a backdrop of glass cabinets displaying rare cocktail paraphernalia. Fridays and Saturdays are busy and reservations help (especially for groups), while weekdays are more relaxed with better walk-in availability. Editorial acclaim speaks for itself: VisitCopenhagen crowned it “a luxurious bar driven by passion,” while Condé Nast Traveler praised its “1920s glamour speakeasy vibe” and exceptional cocktails and service. Curfew is more than just a bar—it’s a nostalgic retreat that honors cocktail culture and storytelling in an intimate, atmospheric setting.

Situated in the magnificent Brønnum House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century building adjacent to the Royal Theatre with roots tracing back over 125 years, Brønnum is far more than just a cocktail bar—it’s a refined dive into Copenhagen’s cultural history and a sanctuary for those who appreciate elegance and ambiance. Step inside, and you’re enveloped in a plush labyrinth of rooms, each offering a different tone: the entrance and main bar shine under brighter lighting and offer a social, upbeat environment, while the deeper lounges become increasingly dim and intimate, perfect for whispered conversations or private gatherings. Antique Spanish wood paneling, luxurious velour seating, ornate chandeliers, and richly carved details amplify the opulent setting. Brønnum doesn’t just honor the past—it thrives in the present with a well-edited drink menu that spotlights flair and finesse. Champagne enthusiasts are treated to some of “Copenhagen’s cheapest bubbles,” alongside expertly crafted cocktails that balance premium ingredients with accessible prices. Standout creations like the PANDAN EXPRESS, COFFEE NEGRONI, and WINTER THYME showcase the bar's innovative mixology at reasonable price points (around 130–135 DKK). For early evenings, the courtyard—a hidden courtyard with warm lighting—is a tranquil haven in warmer months: lush and inviting, it’s ideal for sipping spritzers in the sun. These layers of comfort and charm make every visit feel like stepping through the pages of a vintage novel. The bar’s atmosphere is heightened by its storied legacy—reportedly a favorite haunt of Hans Christian Andersen—and its richly textured interiors are as much a character as the cocktails themselves. It’s a theatrical experience in and of itself: sophisticated, soulful, and subtly cinematic.

Tucked into the basement at Dannebrogsgade 6 in Copenhagen’s Vesterbro neighborhood, Duck and Cover offers a slightly retro, soothing escape from the city's hustle. With interiors inspired by 1960s and 70s Danish design—rich dark walls, slatted wood paneling, boxy sofas, and a curved bar—it feels like entering a warmly lit architectural sanctuary for cocktail lovers. Owned by Kasper Riewe Henriksen, a former Ruby Bar bartender and Diageo World Class finalist, the lounge exudes thoughtful craftsmanship and calm elegance. The bartenders serve up carefully curated classics and rotating seasonal specialties. Expect Nordic ingredients, creative spins on tradition—imagine a “wet martini” using akvavit instead of vermouth, with subtle notes of cacao, dill, or apple cider vinegar, or cocktails spiked with aquavit infused with anise, gooseberries, or dill whey. This bar isn’t about loud crowds. Instead, it offers a tranquil, refined experience—perfect for a relaxed nightcap. Its subdued charm is amplified by vintage retro glassware, leather seating, and dim lighting that soften each visit into an intimate moment. Duck and Cover’s understated, design-driven ambiance has earned it recognition in cocktail circles and beyond.

Tucked into a Frederiksberg corner, Gensyn (Danish for “see you again”) transforms the classic bodega into a relaxed yet refined haven—where vintage swagger meets thoughtful mixology. It occupies the site of the beloved Husar Pub, preserving retro charm while welcoming a new era of cocktails and conversations. Behind the bar, Terkel—once a mixologist amid Copenhagen’s elite cocktail scene—grew nostalgic for the simple, welcoming pub atmosphere that grounded him after late shifts. Partnering with David, he built Gensyn: a place where homey vibes, fair prices, and expertly made drinks take center stage. Inside, warm wooden panels, retro furnishings, dim lighting, and even a game of Danish five-pin billiards set the mood. It’s a space where patrons don’t need to dress up—just show up, relax, and enjoy. But don’t let the laid-back vibes fool you—this spot serves “some of the city’s finest cocktails,” from smoky Old Fashioneds (three-whisky blends!) to inventive grapefruit margaritas and Frederiksberg Distillery’s own Gensyn gin in crisp G&Ts. With around 150 whiskies and locally brewed draught beers from Herslev Bryghus, Hancock, and Brus on tap, it caters to all tastes without pretense. Patrons rave: “cozy mood … great cocktails and friendly service,” “hygge atmosphere … crazy-good, original drinks,” despite some noting occasional crowding or smoky air. Happy hour and seating further enhance its appeal. Awards? In 2017, Gensyn was named Best New Bar in Copenhagen at the Bartender’s Choice Awards in Stockholm.