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Østerbro is something truly special to Tilde: »I care more about the atmosphere than the menu«

We all have a language for the city around us – if only we ask the right questions. In the interview series My Neighborhood, we invite local voices to put their city into words.

You’ll get their best recommendations for hidden gems and beautiful urban spaces – along with a warm invitation to discover or rediscover cities and neighborhoods across Denmark.

By Anna Skovby Hansen

My Neighborhood: Copenhagen, Østerbro

Tilde Lund Nielsen talks about experiencing the city on a student budget. She is 24 years old and studies at the University of Copenhagen. When she looks up from her textbooks, she explores the city like an adventurer on her black bicycle. Tilde grew up in Østerbro and still lives in the neighborhood – in a fifth-floor apartment she shares with her roommate, Marie.

What do you associate with Copenhagen?

»Hygge, no doubt. It’s a cliché, but it’s true. Copenhagen is the place I want to live more than anywhere else in the world. I grew up in Østerbro, and even though I moved away for a few years, the city pulled me back. Now I live in my childhood neighborhood again – in a small apartment with my roommate Marie. We don’t have much space, so you’re kind of forced to get out and use the city, and I actually love that.«

How do you use the city when you need a break from studying?

»I often go for a run – it helps clear my mind. I love running around The Lakes or heading up to Konditaget Lüders in Nordhavn, which has both fitness equipment and an incredible view of the city. It’s free, and it still feels luxurious – even if you're a bit winded when you reach the top. And you can finish off with a dip in the harbor bath at Sandkaj to cool down.«

What’s Copenhagen’s most overlooked oasis?

»Classens Have! It’s a small, secret courtyard garden in Østerbro – I’d call it an oasis. I heard about it from a friend of a friend. I read there, have lunch on a blanket, and enjoy the quiet. And then there’s Bopa Plads, which has Parisian vibes. It’s a small square with outdoor seating, colorful string lights, and pétanque under big green trees. It’s the kind of place where you say, ‘I’ll just have one drink,’ but it quickly turns into more. In that area, there’s also the famous Juno the Bakery, where people line up on weekends for their popular cardamom buns – and they really are drool-worthy. Just nearby is Isoteket, which has some truly unique and surprising flavors.«

"You know it’s a good place when people willingly stand around shivering for a cheese roll, right?"

How do you use the city as a student?

»I often study out in the city – at home, I get distracted too easily and end up procrastinating, like doing laundry instead of reading. The Black Diamond is a favorite, especially the Old Reading Room. It’s completely quiet, and it feels like everyone is immersed in the same level of focus. That vibe is contagious. When I need a break, I’ll grab an overpriced coffee on the harbor promenade – with a view over Copenhagen Harbor. The city actually has some of the most beautiful reading rooms, worth visiting just for the architecture.”«

Photo: Jeppe Carlsen

What does your perfect weekend look like?

»When I go out in the city, ambiance matters more to me than anything else – it’s no joke that I always look at the interior before the menu. I love starting my weekend with a cheese roll from Skipper Bakery on Østerbrogade. There’s almost always a line – but you know it’s a good place when people willingly stand around shivering for a cheese roll, right? There’s a really nice vibe, often with families and dogs gathered outside. I love just sitting and watching life go by.«

»I often bike through Nordre Frihavnsgade – coffee in hand, a bit too much in my bag, and the sun in my eyes. I love stopping at a shop I’ve never noticed before. I always try to remember to look up – there’s so much to see.«

How do you use the city in winter versus summer?

»I actually think Copenhagen is really cozy in the winter because there are so many options. I love going to the cinema, especially Grand Teatret or Park Bio – those theaters have a special charm. There’s something nostalgic about watching a film in one of the old Copenhagen cinemas – and it’s a more affordable cultural experience too.”«

»In summer, I bike to Svanemøllen Beach when I want sand between my toes. It’s a peaceful escape from the city and probably the city’s most beautiful swim spot. I think it’s pretty special to have a sandy beach in a big city – it feels like sneaking off on vacation, even if it’s just for an afternoon.«

»I also love taking long walks around Copenhagen’s streets and parks – especially Kastellet, which I find really special. You get the most beautiful view over the water and Langelinie. That feeling of being able to look far out over the water brings a sense of calm. My boyfriend and I once had a sunset picnic there – highly recommended if you want a romantic date in nature with a view.«

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