Is this Wes Anderson-style hotel Copenhagen’s coolest stay?

The sustainably-minded Hotel Bella Grande is officially Copenhagen’s “it” hotel.

Copenhagen epitomises effortless cool, seamlessly blending a wealth of design stores, laidback fashion, outstanding food and an eco-conscious mindset. And the accommodation that ticks all the boxes? Hotel Bella Grande. Centrally located, this design-led accommodation celebrates Scandi meets Italian grandeur with lashings of colour and pattern that make it one of the city’s most distinctive stays.

I recently checked into the boutique hotel and found myself at the whim of its Wes Anderson-style charm. Here’s everything you need to know before booking a stay.

Location

The stylish boutique hotel puts you in the heart of Copenhagen.

Hotel Bella Grande is nestled on a quiet street in Copenhagen’s Old Town. Steps from the City Hall Square, this area is lively yet safe, walkable and full of classic Danish charm. You’re placed within walking distance of popular sites such as the colourful buildings of Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the Strøget shopping district.

For those not cycling or looking to explore further afield, you’ll find Copenhagen’s train system easily navigable, and Rådhuspladsen train station is also steps away.

Style and character

Timeless charm meets modern elegance.

Directed by Cofoco, local interior architect and graphic design agency TONEN executed the transformation of a historic 1899 building into a charming Venetian palazzo that blends nostalgic romance with modern elegance. Guests are greeted by a pastel yellow facade elevated with curved awnings and the building’s original, delicately sculpted mouldings. Inside, the reception area echoes the concierge in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel, with red-tasselled room keys displayed on the wall. The refreshed interiors hero a warm palette of pinks and creams complemented with bold geometric and floral patterns that add theatrical flair. Furniture blends mid-century Scandinavian simplicity with romantic Italian flourishes.

At the heart of the accommodation is a striking central atrium with a charming courtyard, encircled by guest rooms. This is Italian Palazzo style ramped up – climbing greenery, checkered terrazzo floors, and soft blush pink tones.

The lobby channels The Grand Budapest Hotel, with red-tasselled room keys displayed on the wall.

The designers spared no detail, even in the onsite gym, which features parquet flooring, forest green walls, and state-of-the-art equipment.

Cycling around the city is undeniably the most enjoyable way to get around and Hotel Bella Grande has bikes with baskets available to hire for 185 DKK per day.

Rooms

Rooms take on a more subdued palette than public spaces.

109 rooms and suites range from the cosy single – a nice option in a luxury hotel – to the lavish suite with a private rooftop terrace. I stayed in a Superior Double, which struck a perfect balance between style and comfort and featured large, street-facing windows. I particularly liked the red and white tiled bathroom and the Scandi sleep method of bedding, which gives sleepers separate duvets. A steamer was another welcome addition.

It’s worth noting that 24 of the 109 rooms face the enclosed courtyard rather than the street, which can limit access to fresh air (there is ventilation) and increased noise.

Food & Drink

Enjoy classic Italian fare in the opulent red and pink-swathed dining space.

On-site restaurant Donna has become somewhat of a hotspot in Copenhagen, and for good reason. There are several areas to enjoy the restaurant’s classic Italian fare: the courtyard, the opulent red-and-pink swathed galley-style space, the sumptuous cocktail lounge and the alfresco space out front. Begin your feast with arancini and focaccia with whipped ricotta, followed by rigatoni alla vodka and deep-fried aubergine with tomato sauce, capers, basil and Parmesan. Finishing with tirismu is a must.

For ultimate summer vibes, I recommend sitting outside under one of the umbrellas and ordering a  Margherita with a Zola Spritz (or two).

Sustainability

A slice of la dolce vita tucked into Copenhagen’s Old Town.

Sustainability is central to Hotel Bella Grande’s ethos. As part of Cofoco – a leading Danish hospitality group powering its 20 venues with a dedicated six-hectare solar farm – the hotel operates on 100 per cent renewable electricity from Cofoco’s solar park.

I did note the absence of air conditioning and in-room fridge; however, understanding the hotel’s commitment to environmental responsibility, these omissions make sense, further reinforcing their sustainable approach.

Does Hotel Bella Grande have access for guests with disabilities?

The hotel entrance and bathrooms have a step, which makes this hotel unsuitable for guests with mobility impairments.

Is Hotel Bella Grande family-friendly?

TONEN transformed the historic building into a charming Venetian palazzo.

Hotel Bella Grande has family rooms, which feature a double bed and bunk beds in an adjoining room.

Details

Best for: Design-savvy travellers.

Address: Vester Voldgade 23, 1552 København V, Denmark

Rate: From 1.495 DKK per night.