“Comfort and Character on the Waterfront”
This is a classy hotel that has possibly the healthiest and tastiest breakfast selection I have ever experienced. Fruit selection included fresh figs, passionfruit, watermelon, other kinds of melon, in addition to apples, pears, bananas, and the usuals. There was every conceivable type of bread, meat, and the coffee was good. However, at least in my case, breakfast was an extra (not included with room charge), although it was worth it.
The hotel is situation lengthwise across the water from Christianhavn, so your room can face the water or the hotel parking lot on the next street over. It's about a 12 minute walk to the Little Mermaid, and bus stops to every conceivable part of the city are just one to severak blocks away. It's also a few blocks away from the harbor ferry and a 12-15 minute walk to the Metro that can take you to the airport (about $36 and WAY cheaper than a taxi).
I stayed at the hotel 5 nights. The hotel has a nautical theme. Early on, I noticed the bathroom sink wasn't working. When I complained, I had a maintenance man in my room in no time. I was switched into a better room with a better view within 30 min. When the maint man noticed I had a cold, he brought me some OTC medicine!
The staff was great. I had a lot of fun with them, they were personable, patient, pleasant, assisted me any time that I needed directions or help, and offered frank opinions of sights when asked.
Next time I'm in Copenhaven, I'd go back there w/o a second thought.
Area recommendations
I had heard a lot about Christiania--the "autonomous" neighborhood in Christianhavn. It sounded like the West Village in NYC or the Haight in San Francisco from the 60s. This is just my opinion, but I think it's overrated. There was a unique vibe, not always pleasant, but I ran past so many characters that looked like they were on the edge, that I wound up getting out of there with my expensive photo equipment quickly, as I was solo. There's also a "no photos" policy, which is kind of unfriendly, unless you consider the practical implications--namely, those selling drugs don't want their picture taken. Also, the stream that runs through the wooded park area nearby is so filthy it's hard to believe you're in Denmark. By comparison,the "autonomous" neighborhood in Vilnius, Lithuania was much more interesting, creative--and friendly. Somehow I got the impression Christiania was a place for the well-meaning and not-so well meaning creative and artistic set to do their thing, crash cheaply &, "turn on, tune in, & drop out.," to coin a phrase from a late ex-Harvard professor and 60s guru.
Be sure to visit the unique-looking church with the spiral steeple and 400 steps to the top, within walking distance from Christiania and the CHvn Metro station. It's a fun exercise. Also nearby is the Architecture Design Center--highly recommended if you're into seeing cutting edge Danish design and architecture. They also have a great bookshop.
Getting around
Buses abound. However, there is a lot of construction in the city, so the actual route may be slightly different than that on your map. Simply ask the bus driver and show them the map; they speak excellent English, and will happily show you where your stop is located and what it is named (not always obvious).
What to pack
A few different jackets or layers, as the weather is unpredictable. I was there in early October, and experienced some of the hottest (and sunniest) days on record for Copenhagen. But it can also be cold, rainy, and windy. The weather forecast may change abruptly, so be prepared.
