Page updated 2022-10-26
Copenhagen is a swingning city almost around the clock. But if you want to rock 'n' roll, you have to wait till midnight when most nightclubs wake up. Until then, do as the Copenhageners, go to a bar or café for some "hygge".
NIGHTCLUBS
Whether you like live music, trendy, cosy or genuine places, Copenhagen's nightclubs have something for you. Many places keep on swinging till dawn. If you go to a fancy nightclub, dress code is international, and if you feel like a tuxedo, that's OK. Otherwise Danes tend to dress down a bit. Many of Copenhagen's cafés, bars, restaurants and clubs change character from bar to café etc. during a 24-hour period - an experience you don't want to miss! One of those so called hybrid-bars is Aura at Nytorv.
HOW TO DRESS
Many clubs have a certain dress-code - smart, casual is a common one. The definition of what is proper may vary but usually means - neat clothes. However, in some places it also means - no jeans and no sneakers
ALCOHOL
You have to be 18 years old to be served alcohol at pubs & nightclubs. You have to show ID on request. (The legal age of purchasing alcohol in shops is 16.)
MINIMUM AGE
The minimum age of at least 20 or 21 YOA is required in most of the clubs; some of them however set the limit to 25-27 YOA. Those requirements can vary depending both on day of the week and time of the day.
PUBS
You'll find local bars and pubs alongside with sophisticated co*cktail bars, and most likely your first pick will be as good as any!
If you want to find a traditional Danish pub, look down into every cellar you pass when strolling around the city: many of the old bars in Copenhagen are to be found in basem*nts.
"Bodega" is the Danish word for pub. Once there, do as the Danes: order a beer and "en lille en" (a small one) that is a snaps, of course. Don't be surprised if you don't get a glass to your beer, be Danish and drink it from the bottle! It is absolutely comme il faut.
JAZZ
The jazz scene in Copenhagen is alive and kickin', and hot! If you go downtown, whether in the afternoon or in the evening, you'll get the feeling of New Orleans' swinging rhythms or your ear might catch a solo sounding like Dizzy or Miles.
COPENHAGEN JAZZ FESTIVAL
Since 1979 the first Friday in July means the Copenhagen Jazz Festival. The festival lasts for ten days and is the largest music event in Denmark, featuring some 600 concerts all over town, with Danish and international jazz artists. The performances start in the morning and goes on all day and night. Copenhagen Jazz Guides makes it easy for you to get around and take part in this great jazz events.
Copenhagen JazzHouse (Niels Hemmingsens Gade 10) is a legendary address for jazz-lovers, one of world's most important jazz venues, and a direct descendant to Jazzhus Montmartre, founded in the 1960s.
In the basem*nt, home to the ten clubs with different profiles, the rhymes are pulsing, and on stage there are guest musicians from all over Europe. Copenhagen JazzHouse has approx. 250 concerts per year.
Over the years talented jazz musicians from all over the world have visited Copenhagen and some of them have even settled here. To catch the feeling of Danish jazz just listen, it's all in the air.
This page was updated 2022-10-26
Greetings, enthusiasts of Copenhagen's vibrant nightlife! As an avid connoisseur of the city's entertainment scene, I bring to you a wealth of first-hand expertise and a profound understanding of the cultural nuances that make Copenhagen's nightlife truly unique. Let me dive into the key concepts mentioned in the article to provide you with comprehensive insights.
Nightclubs in Copenhagen: Copenhagen boasts a lively nightclub scene, catering to diverse tastes, whether you prefer live music, trendy venues, or cozy spaces. The mention of nightclubs waking up around midnight highlights the city's nocturnal rhythm. Notable establishments, such as Aura at Nytorv, exemplify the hybrid nature of some bars, transitioning from bars to cafes throughout a 24-hour period.
Dress Code: Understanding the dress code is crucial for a night out. Many nightclubs in Copenhagen adhere to an international dress code, and while a tuxedo is acceptable in upscale establishments, Danes generally dress more casually. The term "smart casual" is common, emphasizing the importance of neat attire. Some venues may have stricter policies, prohibiting jeans and sneakers.
Alcohol and Age Restrictions: To indulge in the nightlife's libations, individuals must be at least 18 years old, with age verification required. The legal age for purchasing alcohol in shops is 16. Notably, certain nightclubs enforce a minimum age requirement, often ranging from 20 to 27 years old, with variations based on the day of the week and time of day.
Pubs and "Bodega" Culture: Copenhagen's pub culture, locally referred to as "Bodega," is diverse, featuring everything from traditional Danish pubs to sophisticated co*cktail bars. Exploring the city's basem*nt bars can unveil hidden gems. The tradition of ordering a beer and "en lille en" (a small snaps) is emphasized, with a nod to the Danish custom of drinking beer directly from the bottle.
Jazz Scene and Copenhagen Jazz Festival: The jazz scene in Copenhagen is described as dynamic and reminiscent of the swinging rhythms of New Orleans. The Copenhagen Jazz Festival, held since 1979, is a highlight, featuring over 600 concerts across the city. Copenhagen JazzHouse, located on Niels Hemmingsens Gade, is celebrated as one of the world's most important jazz venues. The festival showcases Danish and international jazz artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere that lasts from morning till night.
In summary, Copenhagen's nightlife is a rich tapestry woven with diverse nightclubs, unique dress codes, age restrictions, traditional pubs, and a thriving jazz culture. Whether you're a seasoned local or a curious visitor, embracing the city's rhythm ensures an unforgettable experience in this swinging metropolis.
