Let’s Talk About Copenhagen
During a recent FAM Trip hosted by Pearl DMC Collection fam trip to Copenhagen, hosted by Time Change Nordics, I experienced firsthand why this Scandinavian capital is positioning itself as a compelling choice for the European MICE market.
And yes, my competitive nature did lead me to win the beer tasting walking tour on our first evening, but even more significantly, the trip confirmed that Copenhagen offers substantial value for clients seeking memorable, well-executed programmes.
Addressing the Investment Question
We can’t avoid the fact that Copenhagen has a reputation as a premium destination with a price tag to match, and it's a conversation I anticipate having with clients. However, what became clear during our four-day recce is that the value proposition is very strong. The quality of infrastructure, the breadth of unique experiences, and the overall delegate experience justify the investment – particularly for clients who understand that memorable events drive real business outcomes.
The destination is experiencing significant growth in leisure travel, and I believe the MICE sector is well-positioned to follow. The foundations are firmly in place.
Practical Considerations for Programme Planning
Connectivity and Accessibility: Copenhagen delivers excellent flight connections from major European cities, and the city's compact infrastructure simplifies logistics considerably. Our transfers throughout the four days were seamless, demonstrating how operational efficiency translates to better delegate experience.
Accommodation Portfolio: We visited twelve properties across the Arp-Hansen Hotel Group and stayed at three distinctly different hotels – Copenhagen Island Hotel, Tivoli Hotel in the heart of the city, and Marienlyst Hotel, a conference and wellness property by the sea with views across to Sweden.
The variety spans from intimate boutique properties like 71 Nyhavn Hotel to larger conference-capable venues. The historic Phoenix Hotel near Amalienborg Palace and the newly opened 1 Hotel Copenhagen (August 2025) demonstrate the range of characterful and sustainable options available.
Venue Diversity: Mogens Dahl Concert Hall exemplifies the distinctive city-centre venues that elevate events beyond standard expectations. Our exclusive visit revealed impressive acoustics and flexible configuration. The Danish Architecture Center with its harbour terrace offers spectacular networking spaces, while unique dining venues like Maven (inside the former Nikolaj Church) and Almanak Restaurant (third floor of the Danish Opera House) showcase how Copenhagen integrates memorable locations with quality experiences.
Programme Elements That Deliver Impact
Time Change Nordics crafted an itinerary that effectively demonstrated Copenhagen's range. The guided beer walk through the craft beer scene provided cultural engagement, while the creative painting workshop at Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store showed how heritage brands integrate into team-building. The private canal boat tour – considered a must-do – offered perspective and natural programme breaks.
Our visit to Kronborg Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site and Shakespeare's Hamlet setting) provided cultural depth, enhanced by traditional Danish pastries served on-site. Delicious.
Speaking of delicious, our dining experience at Sletten Restaurant highlighted fresh Nordic cuisine with seaside views, while the gourmet dinner at Marienlyst Hotel, introduced by their sommelier, exemplified premium options available.
The culinary standard throughout was exceptional, providing confidence when planning client programmes.
The Nordic Wellness Element
An unexpected highlight was experiencing authentic Nordic wellness rituals. The optional morning sauna and harbour dip – something Copenhageners embrace year-round – and Marienlyst Hotel's award-winning spa access demonstrated how wellness can be meaningfully integrated into business programmes.
This embodies the Danish concept of "hygge" – creating cosiness and well-being – which significantly enhances delegate satisfaction. With wellness a high priority for many clients, this feels like an opportunity to entwine delegate wellness with authentic Danish experiences.
Three Key Takeaways for Client Programmes
1. Operational Efficiency: Copenhagen's accessibility and navigability reduce logistical complexity. Time Change Nordics demonstrated professional execution throughout, from coordinated transfers to perfectly timed venue showcases. This efficiency translates directly to smoother delivery and better delegate experience.
2. Authentic Sustainability: Copenhagen's genuine commitment – evident in outdoor swimming culture, seasonal cuisine, and sustainable hotel openings – provides credible credentials without feeling manufactured. The city's approach to sustainable living is embedded, not added on.
3. Programme Flexibility: The range of hotel styles, meeting spaces, and experience options enables genuine customisation. Whether clients require intimate executive retreats or larger conferences, cultural immersion (Kronborg Castle, Tivoli Gardens) or active team-building, harbour-side sophistication or wellness-focused programmes, Copenhagen delivers. The walkability between venues allows for flexible scheduling and spontaneous adjustments.
Looking Forward
The investment in sustainable development, coupled with excellent connectivity and a strong experience economy, positions Copenhagen well for meaningful experiences.
And while winning that beer tasting competition was personally satisfying, the real achievement was the insight into Copenhagen and the potential for exceptional programmes for our clients.
If you’re interested in exploring Copenhagen for your next event, contact Powwow today at hello@powwowevents.co.uk to discover the very best in Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen.
