Given that Los Angeles is a pretty big place, this guide focuses on what sits in the middle of West and East, aka Mid-City. Though true Angelinos understand that “Mid-City” defines an actual LA neighborhood, we are using it here to describe the central areas between West Hollywood and K-Town.

So much of what defines “old LA” can be found in and around the central part of the city: Art Deco signs that rise above classic hotels, restaurants that hark back to old Hollywood glamor, and surprisingly excellent shopping that gives residents their signature laid-back look.

As areas like Korea Town fill their streets with trendy new bars, there is a sense that these LA neighborhoods are changing, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Though some excellent street food has been lost, new additions are bringing fresh diversity and making these areas exciting places to visit. Here’s our take on a few favorites in Los Angeles, Mid-City.

Where to stay in central Los Angeles

The Prospect Hollywood

The Prospect Hotel brings glamour and old Hollywood charm. Each room is uniquely designed to embody the history of the property and its former neighbors. We also adore the charming courtyard – with native plants, fireplaces, and ancient fountains, it’s the perfect setting for an evening drink. And for those with work to do – guests of the hotel also enjoy free access to the nearby co-working space, NeueHouse. 

Hotel Figueroa

The Spanish colonial-style interior is beautiful and translates well to each of the eateries inside the hotel. Drinks at Bar Figueroa are brought to you by the cocktail guru from Employees Only in NYC. And, don’t miss the rooftop pool – one of the best.

Petit Ermitage

Petit Ermitage is very much a West Hollywood hotel, with bohemian-inspired rooms and a private rooftop pool that feels very “LA”. Catch some sun or work up there during the day, then come evening, grab a jumper and a glass of wine, and head back up to sit by the fire. It’s a transportive, leafy oasis. We’ll meet you there.

1Hotel West Hollywood

The 1Hotel West Hollywood is a beautiful, calming oasis in one of LA’s most energy efficient buildings. Sustainability is at the forefront of the experience here, with design elements crafted from fallen trees recovered from the state of California, organic cotton sheets, and restaurant ingredients sourced from the hotel’s own organic garden. 

Where to eat in central Los Angeles

Jon & Vinny’s

If you can get a table, this is some of the best pizza in LA. We recommend going for a late lunch or at some odd hour in order to secure a seat. Even when it’s crowded, know it’s 100% worth the wait.

Guelaguetza Restaurant

Great Oaxacan food in Koreatown. In fact, Jonathan Gold (the first food critic to win a Pulitzer Prize) named this “the best Oaxacan restaurant” in the entire country. Opened by a husband and wife team from Mexico, it is still a family business. Order every type of mole on the menu, and enjoy the live Mariachi band.

Sushi Park

There is a sign outside Sushi Park that basically reads “No Bullshit”. They don’t serve California rolls or teriyaki, they don’t do vegetables or salad, and don’t even think of mentioning “spicy tuna” here. Trendy sushi is not on the menu here – which is exactly why we love it. Come for high-quality fish and incredibly authentic Japanese sushi.

Rosaliné

This is a beautiful Peruvian restaurant on Melrose Avenue, from the interiors, to the plating to the food itself. Rosaliné does a great job at the classic ceviches, lomo saltado, and vegetarian options.

Otus Thai Kitchen

If you’re looking for a solid breakfast that’s not the ubiquitous avocado toast, head to Otus Thai Kitchen. We order the “Kai Kata” and a latte, and take a seat in their sunny backyard.

Gracias Madre

Gracias Madre has a gorgeous tiled courtyard and interior, and serves delicious, generously portioned, vegan Mexican dishes – which are great whether you’re vegan or not.

Parks BBQ

Don’t be fooled by the exterior of this legendary Korean BBQ spot. Parks is one of the top spots for KBBQ in LA, and it’s David Chang endorsed. Reservations are recommended as this restaurant gets packed.

Grand Central Market

The Grand Central Market in LA has been showcasing local chefs, vendors, and ingredients since 1917. The options are endless, with something from every cuisine and price point. Tables are hard to come by, but with some patience you should be able to snag one.

Where to get coffee in central Los Angeles

Go Get Em Tiger

Though not very big, Go Get Em Tiger is a great place to grab a coffee in central LA. Located on Larchmont (the unicorn of LA streets – one where you can actually take a leisurely walk), it’s a good stop off before you browse the shops.

Alfred

Known to be frequented by some of Hollywood’s elite, a stop at Alfred is as much about the experience as it is the coffee. They have the classics and also some inventive creations of their own (we’re looking at you, Pink Drink and Chagaccino).

Where to shop

American Rag

American Rag is an LA mainstay and always a great place to find denim staples and boots to match. Selling cool brands like Ulla Johnson and Norse Projects, there is something for everyone.

Des Kohan

Selling high-end jewelry, clothing, and accessories, Des Kohan is the upscale boutique that makes us wish we had a black card. Collaborating with emerging designers, this shop has both unique pieces and major staples.

Denim Revival

Did you rip your favorite vintage Levis? Denim Revival can repair them. Or have you still not found your favorite pair of vintage Levis? Denim Revival can provide. Do you need a vintage leather jacket to go with your new pants? Denim Revival has you covered.

Mister Freedom

Mister Freedom excels in rows and rows of well-curated vintage menswear, sourced from around the world. Alongside its own in-house label, which is pretty good, too.

The Way We Wore

The Way We Wore is your one-stop vintage shop for high-end to everyday vintage clothing and accessories. With consistent new arrivals, you can always uncover a great new (to you) find.

What to do in central Los Angeles

Cinespia, Hollywood Forever Cemetery

On Fairbanks lawn insider the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, this outdoor cinema calls for big blankets, pillows, and picnic supplies. Get cozy alongside other Angelinos enjoying a date or a night with their friends. And, if you’re thinking “it’s a cemetery, I bet they only show horror movies,” you’d be wrong. Past films include everything from Dazed & Confused, to Almost Famous, and season finale screenings – so, there is something for everyone.

Hollywood Bowl

Check out the schedule of acts coming into the historic Hollywood Bowl. This is one of our favorite venues ever. With the Hollywood Hills in the background, and the natural acoustics, there is no better place to see music. Get a table and bringing a picnic.

LA Farmers Market

LA has a ton of farmers markets, but the original one on Fairfax is a must visit. You can get everything from produce to homewares to prepared food. The flowers are also divine, buy yourself or your dinner host an armful. 

Olympic Spa

Korean Spas are a way of life in LA. We’ve tried a bunch, and Olympic remains one of our consistent go-tos. Don’t come here for the luxury experience you might expect at the Four Seasons – but if you want to feel like your skin has returned to baby-soft form after a great salt scrub, this is your place. 

The Comedy Store

This is an LA institution. From Whoopi Goldberg to Eddie Murphy to Robin Williams, it has hosted some legends. Grab tickets to either stage and don’t be shocked if you get a surprise celebrity comic crashing the performance.

Where to get a hit of culture

Barnsdall Art Park

Okay, so technically Barnsdall Art Park is in “East” Hollywood, but we are including it here anyway. An 11-acre park, Barnsdall is home to a Frank Lloyd Wright structure, a phenomenal art gallery, creative classes for kids and adults, and views.

LACMA

This might be surprising, but if you walk past the famous lamp post installation that has been Instagrammed thousands of times, there is an incredible collection of art inside LACMA. With fantastic exhibits and a permanent collection that people travel to see, LACMA is one of our favorite museums in LA. And yes, you can still take photos of the lamp posts. 

Stahl House

Thanks to an iconic Julius Shulman photograph, The Stahl House is one of the most well-known residences in LA. Originally built as part of the Case Study House Program in 1960, the less-than-thrilling facade gives way to an incredible pool and views in the back. Tours are available, but book in advance because they sell out quickly (tip: aim for an evening tour so you can see watch the city transition from day to night).

La Brea Tar Pits

Off Wilshire Blvd are the centuries-old La Brea Tar Pits. One of the worlds most famous fossil excavation sites, you can take a tour of the natural history museum that sits behind the viewing area. We love the fact that this is right in the middle of Los Angeles.

Where to work out in central Los Angeles

Wanderlust Yoga Studio

Wanderlust goes beyond just a yoga studio. With vinyasa, kundalini, mindfulness classes and more, there are plenty of options to spend time on the mat. They also have a cafe, a collaborative studio space, and host events.

Modo Yoga LA

Modo has made its name across America, but we love their central LA outpost. It’s a hot yoga studio with great teachers and is exactly what we need after a night of drinking and eating tacos at 2am.

The Wall Fitness

With unique classes including cycling, interval training, and stretching, Wall is where we go to kick our own ass. Their signature 123 Stack class is the perfect antidote for jet-lag, and will keep you coming back for that adrenaline high. We also love their facilities.

Where to drink in central Los Angeles

The Dime

A Los Angeles classic. The Dime is still running and it’s still as great as it ever was. If you get here early, you can slip into one of the banquets and avoid the crowds that start coming around 10pm. It isn’t a big place, but what it lacks in space it makes up for in great music. Drinks are strong – don’t say we didn’t warn you. 

Jones Hollywood

Jones is also a restaurant, but we usually come here for a martini at the bar. The interior is the classic LA vibe, and the bartenders have some stories. The last time we were here, the power went out and even though they couldn’t cook food, they lit the entire place in candles and let the drinks flow. That’s the kind of place Jones is.

The Normandie Club

If you’re looking for a fancy cocktail or an impressive date spot, head to the Normandie Club in K-Town. It’s a dark, beautiful bar and we feel like you should probably order a really nice whiskey on the rocks.

Kibitz Room

This dark bar is kind of a dive, but we love it because it’s attached to one of our OG LA favorites, Canter’s Deli. You will pretty much exclusively see LA locals here, and the rare but real LA native. 

El Carmen

Tequila on the rocks. Tequila cocktails. Tacos to go with your tequila. That’s El Carmen in a nutshell. 

Where to dance in central Los Angeles

Break Room 86

Dreams really do come true at this 80s-themed karaoke bar in Korea Town. Walk in via the secret entrance through a loading dock, and just know that one of the best bars in LA is waiting for you on the other side. 

Good Times at Davey Wayne’s

Brought to you by the Houston Brothers (like Break Room 86), this is a 70s bar that you get to through a secret entrance (see a theme here?). There are mustard-colored couches, hammocks on the patio, and really, really good tunes. One of our favorite places in LA. 

Dirty Laundry

Okay fine, all of our places to go out are Houston Brothers establishments. They all serve their purpose, and Dirty Laundry’s purpose is to be sexy AF. With a speakeasy vibe, candlelit bar, and good cocktails, this is another of our favorite places. The real kicker is the secret dance room with fantastic DJs, hidden in the back.

Bar Lis

Situated atop the Thompson Hollywood Hotel, Bar Lis sets out to pair French Riviera sophistication with laidback LA vibes. Stop by for a drink before sunset for great views of the Hollywood hill views (including the Hollywood sign). Come after dark on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for DJ sets, dancing, and disco balls.

Where to work

Verve Coffee Roasters

The Melrose location of this LA coffee house is large, airy, and has great outdoor space. It serves some of our favorite coffee (we buy the beans every time) – take a seat on a massive cushion, or at a table outside to get some sun while you work. 

Bricks & Scones

Located on Larchmont in Hancock Park, Brick & Scones is huge. Head to the second floor and make yourself comfortable for the day. It has plenty of outlets and, yes, scones to keep you charged. 

The pool at Petit Ermitage

Listen, you’re in LA. That means that you should be in a bathing suit at least 50% of the time. If that means suffering from a little screen glare while you work, so be it. Head to the bohemian-inspired rooftop of Petit Hermitage and plug away.

Check out our guide to the Westside of Los Angeles, here.

Skylar Mclean of Serving Looks ATL is a newly engaged millennial and dog mom living in Atlanta, Georgia. In June 2018, after receiving her MBA and going to work as an accountant, Skylar started Serving Looks ATL as a creative outlet to express her love of food, drink, and stunning lifestyle moments. 

Serving Looks ATL showcases not only Skylar’s creativity, favorite local restaurants, and fashionable outfits, but also offers freelance services for content creation, event representation, and bookkeeping. 

Skylar is a resident expert when it comes to first-rate dining and accommodation in Atlanta (as can be seen on her Instagram). Read on for her insider tips on food, culture, R&R, and more. 

What are your top three hotels in Atlanta?

Bellyard – I love the personalized welcome package (consisting of a handwritten note, chips, salsa, sour cream, and a build your own margarita kit), as well as the food and drinks at the onsite Drawbar. The neighboring attractions in West Midtown are also a plus. There is no shortage of things to do and places to eat: Puttshack, Velvet Taco, Slingshot Social, and The Painted Pin are all fun, upscale options for dining or a night out.

Hyatt Centric Buckhead – I love the views and vibe of the rooftop bar here. Located right next to the Lenox Mall and Phipps Plaza, it’s easy to do some shopping before or after your stay. There are also some really nice restaurants in the area: Del Frisco’s Grille and Dantanna’s are both less than 10 minutes away. 

Epicurean – Also located in Midtown, I love the food-focused events here, like the wine and chocolate pairing classes. Amazing restaurants like STK, Sugar Factory, and Saints + Council are located just around the corner, as well as cultural attractions like The Woodruff Arts Center and the High Museum of Art. 

Eat & Drink

Where are your go-to spots to eat & drink in Atlanta?

Breakfast: Highland Bistro for the waffles with fruit; Buttermilk Kitchen for the buttermilk biscuits with jam; and The Real Milk and Honey for the lobster biscuits. 

Lunch: Aviva for the salmon; Food Terminal for Grandma BBQ Pork; and Italia Pizza for the Sorrento Pizza. 

Dinner: Saints + Council for the North Georgia Trout; Red Pepper Taqueria for the Fried Lobster Tail; and A Mano for the Crawfish Spaghetti.

Fun fact: Every Thursday, A Mano hosts “A Mano lends a hand night,” where they donate a portion of their nightly profits to a selected charity or non-profit. The selected beneficiary—Giving Kitchen, Free Bikes 4 Kidz, Mercy Care Atlanta, etc.—are featured for the entire month. It’s definitely worth checking out—not only for the delicious food, but also so you can dine for a cause!

Where should we go for an enjoyable solo dinner? 

Saints + Council is a great spot for craft dishes, cocktails, and conversation. Go with no agenda, and spend as much time as you want in the relaxed environment. Located in the heart of Colony Square in Midtown Atlanta, the atmosphere is a perfect blend of work and play. Inside, you’ll find modern decor, impressive vaulted ceilings, a warm fireplace, and dinner tables that remind you of home. Outside, there is an airy patio featuring another cozy fireplace and lots of greenery.

Culture

Where should we go to get a feel for Atlanta culture? 

The Alliance Theatre is a great place to discover new shows and players. I also really love seeing how the playwright puts their own spin on classic pieces like Trading Places.

(Note: The Alliance is Atlanta’s national theater, expanding hearts and minds onstage and off since 1968. Reaching more than 165,000 patrons annually, the Alliance delivers powerful programming that challenges audiences to think critically and care deeply.)

R&R

If we’re going for a full spa experience, where’s the place?

Go to the Health and Beauty Boutique and book with Amal. I love my monthly facials, B12 shots, and neck and shoulder massages!

Any extra tips?

• Check the weather before planning your outfit. 
• Always ask if the venue has parking and if you need to pay for parking, that way you can plan accordingly. 
• Follow @ServingLooksATL for all the top spots in Atlanta!

Matt Ford is a queer actor, writer, and video producer with over eight years of NYC living under his belt. After five years of working for Buzzfeed, Matt decided it was time to chase a dream of creating his own video production company. He’s still doing what he loves, and now he’s also living a bicoastal lifestyle between New York and LA.  

Though it’s no longer his full-time home, Matt’s love for NYC runs deep. He recounts his move to New York in 2014 as one of his life highlights to date (along with writing an investigative piece of journalism that went viral, and booking an ad campaign that had his face in trains on every New York City subway line!). Matt’s an NYC pro, and he’s giving us his best recommendations for a great, gay night out in five of his favorite neighborhoods. 

Keep reading for all of Matt’s Williamsburg, East Village, Bushwick, West Village, and Hell’s Kitchen LBGTQ+ New York City nightlife tips. 

What are your top 3 hotel recommendations? 

The Standard in The Meatpacking District is always fun because it has a gorgeous view and has easy access to the Boom Boom Room and Le Bain up top, which usually have fun parties going on.

In Williamsburg, you can’t go wrong with The William Vale. Stunning views, incredible service, close to everything fun in the neighborhood, and a couple of great restaurants to start the night.

No Bar on Second Avenue (located inside of The Standard East Village) is virtually a gay bar, with great food and a gorgeous aesthetic. It’s also in close proximity to a lot of East Village gay bars, so it’s a solid option to kick off a night.

What is it that you love about staying/eating/drinking here?

All of these are centrally located, plus have great service and drink options. You can be as dressed up or as dressed down as you want to be there, and they all are gorgeously designed.

What do you like about the neighborhoods they’re in? 

The three mentioned — Meatpacking, Williamsburg, and the East Village — are where a huge amount of parties and nightlife happens. Add in Hell’s Kitchen for the muscle gay crowd and Bushwick for the club queers, and you’ve pretty much covered all the bases. These three hotels provide easy access to all those neighborhoods to get any night going swimmingly (or to have a sunrise cocktail after).

WILLIAMSBURG

What does a great night out here look like for you?

Starting out with a cocktail at a hotel like The William Vale and then hitting all my favorite gay bars, which are located very conveniently close to one another.

What are the can’t-miss spots?

Macri Park, The Exley, Metropolitan, and The Rosemont. Special shout-outs to Union Pool and Rocka Rolla for the straights.

What’s everyone wearing? 

Anything hipstery/Brooklyn style. You can’t really go wrong with black and/or genderfucky pieces.

Who’s invited? 

Gays and allies. 

What time are we staying out until? 

Until the bars shut down at 4am!

Who are we likely to make new friends with while there?

You’re definitely going to become friends with creative, hipstery BK types.

Where’s the afterparty?

Bagelsmith. (Multiple locations!)

EAST VILLAGE

What’s your favorite way to spend a night out here?

Hitting some of my favorite bars (sometimes that’s needed over a club night, ya know?). 

What spots shouldn’t be missed?

No Bar, Nowhere, Phoenix, and the Boiler Room!

What’s the dress code? 

Casual but trendy. 

Who’s there? 

EV is a younger crowd, so anyone who doesn’t mind that vibe.

What time are we staying out until? 

We’re staying out until pizza calls our name!

What are we listening to? 

No DJ, just whatever playlist the barkeep has on. 

Who are we likely to make new friends with while there?

A lot of recent NYC college grads.

Where’s the afterparty?

Whatever the closest pizza place is, and/or the apartment of a friend who lives right off Tompkins Square.

BUSHWICK:

What’s your idea of a great night out here? 

Dancing until the sun comes up!

What are your can’t-miss spots?

There are lots of fun smaller spots, but the undeniable main attraction is 3 Dollar Bill.

What’s everyone wearing? 

That depends on the theme of the night, but less is almost always more. 

Who’s invited? 

Everyone’s invited, but few are on the list.

What time are we staying out until? 

We’re staying out until 6am at least.

Who’s DJ-ing? 

Ty Sunderland or one of his accomplices, depending on the party.

Who are we likely to make new friends with while there?

You’re likely to meet a lot of major nightlife figures there, and perhaps a celebrity (or seven) on a good night. Plus some famous drag queens!

Where’s the afterparty?

3 Dollar Bill runs late so it could actually be considered the afterparty. But if you’re looking for more, follow the crowd out at closing and you’ll almost always get the address for a good (after) afterparty.

WEST VILLAGE:

What’s your favorite way to spend a night out here?

Getting some showtunes in, seeing some good drag, and basking in the gay capital that is the West Village.

What spots shouldn’t be missed?

Playhouse, Duplex, Marie’s Crisis, Julius’, The Jane Hotel, and Stonewall are good for a drink.

What’s the dress code? 

Whatever you’d typically wear out for a night in New York City.

Who’s invited? 

Everyone’s invited, though be warned it’s gonna be a lot of showtunes and/or drag gays.

What time are we staying out until? 

We’re staying until 2 or 3am before skipping to another neighborhood or an afterparty.

Who are we likely to make new friends with while there?

You’re sure to make friends with Broadway folks (and those who aspire to it), up-and-coming drag queens, and plenty of Manhattan gay men.

Where’s the afterparty?

One of the many bodegas nearby, or perhaps a party at The Jane if that’s going on.

HELL’S KITCHEN:

What does a great night out here look like for you?

Dancing, dancing, dancing.

What are your can’t-miss spots? 

There are so many! DBL, Hush, Industry, The Q, Rise, The Ritz, Hardware, Pocket Bar, Boxers, the list goes on. Think of this as the West Hollywood of New York.

What’s everyone wearing? 

Tank top and booty shorts.

Who’s invited? 

Everyone’s invited, but especially gay men with a Pidgeotto haircut.

What time are we staying out until? 

Till 4am, when the bouncers kick everyone out.

Where’s the afterparty?

After all that dancing, you’ll be dreaming of your bed. 

For more from Matt, check out his Insider Profile and follow him on IG.

Since ‘hygge’ became a global trend, we’ve all been coveting the Danish lifestyle. And in Copenhagen, the people are just as cool and laid back as you would hope. Their effortless, no-fuss confidence is honestly refreshing, and bound to rub off the longer you spend here.

Pleasure is simply a way of life – think pastries, coffees and good conversation. There are also more bikes than people in Copenhagen, so you’ll be safe cycling around as your explore the city. And there’s plenty to explore – Denmark is a leader in design, fashion, art, and food (hello Noma and Ganni!).

Denmark also has the happiest workforce in the world. As author of The Little Book of Hygge, Meik Wiking, explains: “Danes are aware of the decoupling between wealth and wellbeing. After our basic needs are met, more money doesn’t lead to more happiness and, instead, Danes are good at focusing on what brings them a better quality of life.”

Here’s our guide to Copenhagen, to get yourself some of that Danish spirit.

Where to stay in Copenhagen

Hotel SP34

A boutique hotel with an arty vibe that’s perfectly located in the Latin Quarter of Copenhagen. It’s walkable or bikeable to some of the best spots in the city (scroll down for a few).

Nobis Hotel

The Nobis Hotel has got it all – including toiletries from Byredo that you can take home with you. The building is historic and the restaurant is divine.

D’Angleterre

This classic 5-star hotel offers the best breakfast view from a very cute rooftop terrace. Previous guests have included rockstars and royalty. If it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us.

Where to eat in Copenhagen

We’d be remiss not to mention that Copenhagen is home to some of the top-rated restaurants in the world, including Noma and Geranium. There’s also the more laid back Selma, which received a Michelin Bib Gourmand for it’s exceptional yet moderately priced food, and the list goes on.

Of course, there are many amazing restaurants without Michelin stars in this city as well. Three of them happen to be Italian: go to Mangia for incredible pasta and a dope atmosphere; Baest for the best pizzas in town; and Spaghetteria for the local feels. The latter really embodies the Copenhagen attitude of being very cool and casual. Elsewhere, Fishmarket and Osteria 16 are two of our favorite seafood restaurants. And we’re always impressed by Amass, whose zero-waste ethos makes for unique and creative high-end fare.

Where to get coffee

Café Atelier September

Thanks to the hip owner Fredrik Bille Brahe (brother of Sophie Bille Brahe, the renowned jewelry designer) this place is a local hotspot. The curated menu offers healthy snacks, and great coffee. Note: they only do dairy milk.

Juno the Bakery

Less trendy, but no less delicious, the wienerbrød – aka Danish pastry – and coffee here is amazing.

The Coffee Collective

If you’re really into exceptional coffee and don’t care about the rest, then this is the place for you.

Where to shop in Copenhagen

Storm should be your first stop, for sure. An impressive concept store that will leave no one empty-handed. Around the corner is Beau Marché, another must-see. If not for the design decoration, go to grab a coffee in their cozy backyard café.

Local brands like Ganni, Soulland, and Wood Wood all need to be explored, too. Go to Time’s Up for some secondhand shopping – it might be worth mentioning this was a favorite of Virgil Abloh’s.

Where to get a hit of culture

Louisiana

This modern art museum is located outside of Copenhagen, so it doesn’t technically qualify for this list, but it is so good. The train from the central station only takes 30 minutes – cheap and easy.

Glyptotek

If you prefer to stay in the city center, make your way to Glyptoteket. The main hall is inspiring and soothing; the cafe is good for lunch; and, make sure to check out the exhibitions as well.

Where to party

Apollo Bar

Put on your sneakers and go to Apollo Bar (also owned by Fredrik Bille Brahe). There, you’ll find a cool crowd from the creative industries, especially during Fashion Week.

Bakken

Basically, Bakken is where the afterparty is at. Enough said.

Where to work

Skt. Petri Hotel

The lounge is the perfect place to sit down with your laptop without being disturbed. In the summer, head to the terrace and enjoy some sun while you work.

What to do in Copenhagen

Christiania

Rent a bike or hop on a bicycle taxi (or just take a normal taxi), and go to this ‘free town’ – a community where people pretty much make a living out of selling art and handicrafts (and sometimes weed) to tourists. It’s a strange place, but one you’ll want to see before leaving.

Where to work out in Copenhagen

In the summer, go for a swim – firstly, it’s a super clean harbor in the middle of a big city, which basically never happens. Secondly, there are wooden docks all over the place that encourage a dive (or five).

Copenhagen is, as mentioned, the perfect city for cycling. It’s flat and there are 350km of cycle paths (so, it’s super safe). Rent a bicycle and cycle anywhere you need to go – refueling on Danish pastries as often as needed.

Where to drink

Ruby

For some of the best cocktails in town, head to Ruby’s. It will feel like your friend’s living room, complete with dark lighting to set the mood and small corners to hide away in.

Hotel Sanders

For something better suited for that daytime date, then the roof terrace of the luxury Hotel Sanders is a perfect spot in thoughtful surroundings.

Best place to buy gifts

Hay

A cool brand and an even cooler store. Buy some Danish design for someone you love, or, self gift.

Best spot for a photo in Copenhagen

The waterfront in Nyhavn, by the postcard ready buildings. Regardless of whether that photo is going on your social / LinkedIn / dating app profile or not, this place requires a stroll and a snapshot. Don’t stay for lunch though, as every place in this ‘hood is a tourist trap.

For more Scandinavian travel inspiration, check out our guide to Stockholm, here.