A Guide to Copenhagen, Curated by a Design Duo We Love
With 3daysofdesign returning to Copenhagen from June 18–20, 2025, the city is set to once again come to life via displays of creativity from all corners of the design world. This year’s theme, ‘Keep it Real’, calls for conscious design, individuality, and authenticity – “a call to action to be true to your own vision,” reads the programme. So, in keeping with this direction, we thought that – instead of offering another whirlwind itinerary of the city’s most photographed spots – we would ask a local studio with deep roots in the city to give us the insider’s guide to Copenhagen.
Apohli is the creative studio of London-based Lewis Graham and Copenhagen-based Martina Branchetti, working across furniture, objects, and interiors. Their process draws from both primitive craft and contemporary production to produce objects that blend recognisable modernity with anachronistic details: a table with a top engraved with designs inspired by Neolithic rock carvings from Northumberland, or their ‘Horn’ range of lighting that evokes a certain amount of Hellenic geometry. “We’re drawn to spaces and objects that feel lived-in, a little unexpected,” they say. “There’s so much beauty in what’s quiet, well-loved, or slightly odd.” We are big fans here at Scura – keep an eye out for an upcoming story on Martina’s home.
Their recommendations are perfect for any visitor in town for the festival who wants to see more than just what’s on show, from vermouth bars and harbour swimming spots to design-forward galleries and the city’s best vegetarian bistro. Whether you’re here for 3daysofdesign or three weeks of summer, this is your guide to experiencing Copenhagen through their eyes – with a few extra favourites from Scura and Flawk founder Ashley Law, discovered on a recent visit to see Apohli in person.
Eat
1. Dzidra – For a gentle Sunday start
“A warm, unfussy café perfect for slow breakfasts and catching up with friends. The food is simple but lovingly made, and the people behind the counter are just as lovely.”
2. Baka d’ Busk – Veggies and wine
“A thoughtful interior paired with a great vegetarian menu and an especially nice wine list. It feels like dinner with friends, even if you don’t know anyone there.”
3. Nittiya Thai – Takeaway with a view
A family-run Thai takeaway across from the peaceful Assistens Kirkegården. Pick up a pad Thai and picnic on the grass – best experienced on a long summer evening.
4. Et cetera – Considered flavours
“A small, smart spot with delicious dishes and a considered vibe. The kind of place where even the cutlery feels chosen.”
5. Dürüm Simphony – End-of-night staple
“A cult favourite for late-night eats. Simple, satisfying, and exactly what you want after a few drinks.”
6. Resto Bar – Southern charm
“Lovely pasta – best food I ate in CPH,” says Ashley. A refined but relaxed spot serving charcuterie, seafood, and homemade pasta. Southern European soul, best enjoyed inside with a glass of wine.
7. Hero Deli – Subs, sorted
Generous New York-style sandwiches done right. The giardiniera and meatball subs are house favourites. “Great sandwiches,” says Ashley – quick, indulgent, and full of flavour.
8. Daniali & Schiøtz Bageri – Local breakfast go-to
A cosy neighbourhood bakery with everything made on site. “Best cinnamon roll in my life,” says one regular. Ashley’s pick for flaky pastries, good coffee and a sunny morning seat.
9. Amator – Omelettes, three ways
A design-forward listening bar with home-style cooking and perfect omelettes. “Omelettes, omelettes, omelettes!” says Ashley. Come for the eggs, stay for the vinyl and sunshine.
Drink
10. Bar – Truth in naming
“A tiny, candle-lit bar that’s as straightforward as its name. Cosy, quiet, with drinks that hit the spot.”
11. BO-BI Bar – Bodega magic
“Authentic and unpretentious. Slightly chaotic in the best way, it’s the kind of place where stories begin (or get told again and again!).”
12. Paloma – Vermouth delights
“Small and charming, with a surprising vermouth selection. Perfect for aperitivo hour.”
13. Pompette – Natural wine and neighbourhood buzz
A lively Nørrebro bar with a short by-the-glass list and great bar snacks. “Reasonably priced… very busy with locals!” says Ashley. Ideal for an unpretentious glass, a people-watch, “and best followed by a burger from Poulette down the road,” says Lewis.
14. ÅBEN – Brewery with style
Beautifully designed with tanks hanging above the bar, serving fresh beer straight from the source. “Beers brewed on site,” Ashley notes – it’s part bar, part brewing theatre.
Shop
15. Dansk Form – Vintage with clarity
“A carefully edited collection of vintage design pieces – from chairs to small objects – all presented with a quiet confidence.”
16. Collect CPH – Timeworn treasures
“A similarly strong vintage edit, ideal for browsing slowly and discovering that one piece you didn’t know you needed.”
17. CHAMOI – Clothes with a story
“Well-curated vintage clothing with a point of view. Each piece feels chosen, not just found.”
Culture
18. Rudolph Tegner Museum – A pilgrimage worth making
“Located just outside the city, this brutalist sculpture museum is one of our all-time favourites. Its soaring interiors and thoughtful curation make it feel both monumental and deeply human. Pack a picnic: the surrounding parkland is just as good.”
19. Etage Projects – Design as art
“A gallery where design crosses over into the realm of contemporary art. We love its international roster and intelligent curation.”
20. Thorvaldsens Museum – Colour and calm
“Often overlooked in favour of the more popular Glyptotek, Thorvaldsens offers a quieter, more introspective museum experience. The neoclassical interiors and unexpected colour palettes are worth lingering over.”
Nature
21. Assistens Kirkegården – A gentle green pause
“Not just a cemetery, but one of the most beautiful public spaces in Copenhagen. Ideal for solitary walks or laid-back picnics. We often stop here with takeaway from Nittiya Thai in hand.”
22. Dyrehaven – Wild and close
“A short ride from the city, this deer park near the coast feels a world away. A summer bike ride through the trees – with glimpses of water and wild deer – is Copenhagen at its most cinematic.”
23. Wooden dock by the Diamond Library – A secret swim
“An early morning swim spot tucked behind the library. Bring a pastry and a coffee, and you’ll have the place almost to yourself.”