Like a Local - Our Neighbourhood Guide to Nørrebro in Copenhagen
If you’re staying in central Copenhagen and want to see the city’s more international, creative, and multicultural side, then head to the neighbourhood of Nørrebro. Once more of a run-down district, Nørrebro has blossomed into one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Europe, full of indie shops, buzzing cafés, vintage boutiques, and some of the city’s best places to eats.
At its heart is Jægersborggade, a street lined with little shops and boutiques - one side in the sun! It’s a cool place to look at some unique neighbourhood shops and also just to grab a coffee or a pastry in the awesome Meyer’s bakery. A good spot to soak up Copenhagen vibes. Like a local!
It hasn’t always been this way. Once known for squat parties on Jagtvej and a reputation for drug running, Nørrebro has transformed into a hipster mecca of organic cafés, handmade gifts, and stylish second-hand finds. The nightlife can still be edgy, and drug-related incidents occasionally make the news, but the area is also full of peaceful green spaces, creative energy, and a friendly neighbourhood vibe that keeps visitors coming back.
Possibly the most hip street in Copenhagen, Jægersborggade is full of interesting shops and boutiques. Just a single block crammed with designer shops from chocolates, organic coffee, quirky plant shops, and vintage treasures to vegan ice cream. Add in wine tastings, indie boutiques, and a cluster of uber-cool restaurants, and you’ve got one of Copenhagen’s most irresistible streets.
Take a walk here through Assistens Park and cemetery from the centre of town. Here you can also visit the historically significant of famous Danes, including Hans Christian Andersen (1805–1875). The world-famous Danish author of fairy tales such as The Little Mermaid and The Emperor’s New Clothes. Also here is Søren Kierkegaard (1813–1855) Denmark’s most famous philosopher.
From Assistens sart your stroll down Jægersborggade and you’ll quickly notice the mix of tiny independent shops and quirky boutiques. You can find everything from sustainable fashion and handmade jewellery to ceramics and art prints, making it a great spot for unique souvenirs that don’t scream “tourist.” Vintage lovers will also feel right at home here, as many of the second-hand stores in the area stock stylish pieces that are both affordable and sustainable.
Shopping!
For a more sustainable souvenir, Resecond offers vintage and second-hand fashion at great prices, making it easy to update your travel wardrobe while doing something good for the planet. If you’re more into sneakers than sweaters, head to Sneakers & Coffee, where you can sip a responsibly sourced latte while browsing their curated collection of trendy footwear. Warning: it’s hard to leave without buying both.
Jewellery lovers should stop by Ladyfingers, where local designers showcase exquisite handmade pieces you won’t find anywhere else—perfect as a stylish keepsake from your trip. For something more homey, Inge Vincent Ceramics has delicate, white handmade vases and pottery that embody Danish design’s minimalism and elegance. Just make sure you pack them carefully for the trip home.Where to Eat
Where to Eat
Foodies are also spoiled here. Grød, Copenhagen’s famous porridge bar, makes comfort food chic, serving steaming bowls topped with nuts, fruits, and spices—ideal fuel for a chilly day. Coffee fans, meanwhile, can’t miss the legendary Coffee Collective, a café that arguably kickstarted Jægersborggade’s hipster revival. Their beans are carefully sourced and traceable, and the café’s corner spot is a favourite for hanging out in the sun with a perfectly brewed cup. Great seats outside. If you want to support individual coffee places there are several down the street also.
When it comes to dining, Omar brings a cosy, laid-back vibe with modern small plates and great wine—a favourite among locals and travellers alike. For a mid-range splurge, Bæst is still buzzing at night, serving pizzas and small plates that are perfect with a local beer. And if you’re ready to splurge, Jægersborggade is also home to the Michelin-starred Relæ (and its sister restaurant Manfreds), proving that one street can truly do it all.
Ice Cream!
Nørrebro has some of the best ice cream in Copenhagen, with small artisanal shops offering homemade scoops in both classic and creative flavours. Many spots use organic milk and seasonal fruits, and quite a few have vegan sorbets or dairy-free options, so everyone can indulge. Nothing beats grabbing a cone and continuing your walk down the colourful side streets, soaking up the local atmosphere.
For ice cream try Istid - here they serves organic ice cream made with a blast of liquid nitrogen—a dramatic twist on a sweet classic. Flavours rotate, and the creamy texture is unforgettable. Right across the street, you’ll be tempted by a boutique chocolate shop, so pace yourself before diving into round two of dessert.
Banana Cph
Banana takes bananas that are about to be thrown away and uses them to create plant-based ice cream - with a choice of flavours including vegan chocolate!
Backpackers exploring Copenhagen will find that Nørrebro offers a mix of grit and charm, history and innovation. Whether you’re here for the ice cream, the coffee, the vintage shops, or just to soak up the atmosphere, Jægersborggade is the perfect place to spend an afternoon—and maybe even fall in love with Copenhagen’s coolest neighbourhood.
What makes Nørrebro so appealing for backpackers is its energy. It’s multicultural, youthful, and unpretentious—every corner feels like it’s buzzing with creativity.
Stay with us at Copenhagen Downtown Hostel
With the most central location in town, our award-winning hostel has everything you need to have a great backpacker experience right here in Copenhagen. Our helpful staff will make you feel at home! Not only does Copenhagen Downtown have the best priced happy hour in town, we also have the most amazing breakfast deal for our guests, and food to order on our meal and snack menus.
Book direct with us for the best prices and added benefits throughout your stay. We are a member of Famous Hostels, an association of the best hostels around Europe!