In the whirlwind of travel, sometimes all it takes is a fleeting moment to fall in love with a city. Our latest escapade brought us to Copenhagen, a city of enchanting canals, historic charm, and culinary wonders. Nestled nearby, we seized the opportunity for a short 24-hour city stopover, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of Danish culture, cuisine, and design.

Copenhagen, with its charming streets, picturesque canals, and vibrant culinary scene, is a city that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive. To make the most of your day in this enchanting Danish capital, consider staying at the unique and luxurious Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden, a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends influences from New York urban, Bali tropical, Ibiza beach, and African safari.

A Hotel Stay at Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden

Upon checking into this bucket-list jungle hotel in downtown Copenhagen, we were immediately drawn to its distinctive features. The sun-trap roof terrace, roomy apartment suites, and a dramatic central pool area create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The eclectic mix of design influences, including exposed piping, steel walkways, luxuriant planting, and a patchwork-effect tiled pool, make it a truly immersive experience. For those seeking relaxation, the rooftop features a sauna, steam room, and a unique bucket shower, all set against the backdrop of Copenhagen's skyline.

Our suite, complete with a balcony offering a stunning view of the town, provided the perfect setting for a relaxing glass of wine while people-watching from above.

Dinner at Chapung Restaurant

Venturing into the evening, we found ourselves at Chapung, the Asian fusion rooftop restaurant and bar within Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden. Its charming summer terrace provided the perfect ambiance for a delightful dining experience.

A tip for fellow travelers: plan ahead and make reservations, as many Copenhagen restaurants close early.

Manon Les Suites Hotel Copenhagen Köpenhamn Bucketlist Hotel Denmark Danmark

Take-away Smørrebrød at Aamanns 1921

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without savoring the iconic smørrebrød, and Aamanns 1921 is the epitome of this Danish culinary tradition. To ensure we didn't miss out, we made a reservation for takeaway the night before. Aamanns is restaurant known for its focus on ecology and traditional Danish dishes with an occasional international twist.

We opted for the iconic Danish open-faced sandwiches, smørrebrød. The restaurant's commitment to quality, even if it comes at a price, is evident in the taste and presentation of their dishes. I highly recommend trying the Paneret og smørstegt rødspætte med rodfrugtremoulade, syltede rødløg og urter – a delightful blend of flavors that left a lasting impression.

Don't forget to book a table if you prefer to dine in, as Aamanns is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

What is Smørrebrød?

For those unfamiliar with smørrebrød, it is a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich made with rye bread and various toppings. Popular choices include smoked salmon and cream cheese, roast beef with remoulade sauce, pickled herring with onions and capers, egg salad with shrimp and dill, liver pate with bacon and mushrooms, and Danish blue cheese with sliced pear and walnuts.

Eating smørrebrød is a unique experience, requiring the use of a knife and fork. The buttered rye bread serves as the perfect base for the diverse range of toppings, preventing it from becoming soggy. Aamanns 1921, with its Michelin-mentioned status, stands as a testament to the city's best smørrebrød.

Aamanns 1921 Smørrebrød Copenhagen Köpenhamn Denmark Danmark

Exploring Nyhavn at Sunset

No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without exploring Nyhavn, the iconic 17th-century harbor. Lined with colorful townhouses, wooden ships, and seafood restaurants, Nyhavn offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Built by Swedish prisoners of war in the 1670s, Nyhavn has evolved from a cargo port to an entertainment district for sailors and now stands as a picturesque waterfront promenade. It's an excellent starting point to soak in the city's history, and many canal tours depart from this bustling area.

Whether you're sipping coffee at 108 in the neighboring Christianshavn or enjoying a meal at one of Nyhavn's waterfront restaurants, the atmosphere is lively and diverse, making it a must-visit destination in Copenhagen.

Nyhavn Copenhagen Köpenhamn Denmark Danmark

24 Hours Well-Spent in Copenhagen

From the luxurious and unique stay at Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden to the culinary delights of Aamanns 1921 and the historical charm of Nyhavn, a day in Copenhagen offers a perfect blend of luxury, gastronomy, and cultural exploration. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a day of relaxation.

The list of restaurants yet to be explored, including Alchemist, La Banchina, Noma, Kadeau, Punk Royale, ARK, Selma, Pirlo, Famo, Vinello and more, only adds to the anticipation of future visits to this enchanting city.