Copenhagen isn’t just about sleek design, modern gastronomy, and bicycle-filled streets. Hidden among its cobblestone alleys and colorful buildings, you’ll find something more intimate: historic cafés with character. These are the places where time seems to slow down, where you don’t just sip coffee… you taste stories.
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves experiencing a city through its culture and atmosphere, then these historic cafés in Copenhagen will make your heart skip a beat. They are not just cafés; they are little time machines, wrapped in Danish charm.
🍰 Conditori La Glace
Founded in 1870, La Glace is more than a café. It’s practically a Copenhagen institution. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by velvet chairs, chandeliers, and a warm, slightly nostalgic atmosphere.
Why people love it:
- Oldest patisserie in Denmark.
- Famous for their layered cakes and creamy hot chocolate.
- Interior that feels like an elegant living room from another century.
👉 Pro tip: Try the “Sportskage”, their signature cake. Locals adore it, and honestly, it’s an indulgence worth every bite.
🌳 Josty (Terrace)
Located inside the romantic Frederiksberg Gardens, Josty dates back to 1824. Imagine sipping coffee on the restaurant’s terrace in a serene park surrounded by birdsong and historic architecture.
Highlights that make Josty unforgettable:
- Its veranda overlooking the gardens.
- A history that began as a pastry house nearly 200 years ago.
- Perfect spot for summer afternoons or even brunch on a sunny day.
And the truth is… there’s something magical about enjoying a coffee here while watching locals stroll, kids play, and swans glide through the lakes.
☕ Hviids Vinstue
Aunque no es estrictamente una “cafetería”, este lugar merece un sitio en tu ruta cultural por Copenhague. Fundado en 1723, es uno de los bares y cafés más antiguos de la ciudad y está cargado de carácter.
¿Por qué incluirlo?
- Es el local más antiguo en funcionamiento de Copenhague, con más de 300 años de historia.
- Su interior conserva el ambiente clásico de taberna danesa: techos bajos, madera oscura y un aire de autenticidad brutal.
- En invierno, es famoso por su gløgg (vino caliente especiado), aunque también puedes pedir café y disfrutarlo en un lugar que ha visto pasar generaciones enteras de locales.
👉 La experiencia aquí no es solo beber algo, es sentirte dentro de un capítulo vivo de la historia danesa.
🐴 V Sorte Hest
The “Black Horse” is not just a name. It’s one of the city’s oldest surviving inns, dating back to the late 18th century. Once a roadside stop for travelers, it now houses a café and bakery, but the walls still whisper old stories.
What makes it stand out:
- Built around 1770–1800.
- Historical inn turned cozy café.
- A rustic charm that feels authentic, raw, and real.
It’s one of those places where you pause, breathe, and realize that coffee is not the only thing you’re consuming you’re also taking in a piece of Copenhagen’s soul.
🥂 Restaurant Schønnemann
Okay, technically it’s more a restaurant than a café, but if we’re talking about historical experiences, Schønnemann can’t be ignored. Founded in 1877, it’s famous for its smørrebrød, those beautifully stacked Danish open sandwiches.
Why include it here?
- One of Copenhagen’s oldest eateries.
- Traditional Danish atmosphere, with wood interiors and a timeless vibe.
- Pairs perfectly with snaps or beer if you want the full local experience.
Sitting here feels like sharing a table with generations of Danes who have come before.
🍻 Café & Ølhalle ‘1892’
Hidden under the Workers’ Museum (Arbejdermuseet), this cellar café is a true hidden treasure. Opened in the late 19th century, it still looks and feels like a place where factory workers would gather after a long day.
Reasons it deserves your visit:
- Original interior preserved since 1892.
- Cozy atmosphere filled with history and working-class authenticity.
- Serves traditional Danish food and, of course, beer.
It’s the kind of spot where time slows down, and you feel connected not only to the city but also to the ordinary lives that shaped it.
Why these cafés matter
Copenhagen is full of trendy coffee shops with latte art and minimalist design. But these historic cafés? They’re different. They are places where:
- You experience Danish culture beyond the surface.
- You taste recipes unchanged for generations.
- You sit in spaces that have witnessed centuries of laughter, conversations, and quiet reflections.
And honestly, when you leave, you don’t just remember the coffee. You remember the feeling.
Final Thoughts
Visiting these historic cafés in Copenhagen is not about ticking boxes on a travel list. It’s about slowing down, inhaling the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with history, and letting yourself be carried by the city’s soul.
If you only have one day in Copenhagen, choose one of these gems. If you have a week, try them all. Because here, coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a journey through time.
Would you like me to also create a comparison table (quick facts, founding year, best dish/drink, vibe) so readers can scan quickly before diving into details?
