The Perfect Copenhagen Day on a GoBoat (+ Where to Stay!)

Copenhagen is a city defined by water. Its canals aren't just pretty backdrops; they are major arteries of life, leisure, and "hygge." When we planned our recent family trip to the Danish capital, we knew we didn’t just want to walk along the water—we wanted to be on it.

But we didn’t want a crowded tourist barge with a loud loudspeaker commentary. We wanted freedom, quiet, and a picnic.

Enter GoBoat Copenhagen. It turned out to be the absolute highlight of our trip and the definition of a perfect Copenhagen day. Here is why you need to do this, and where you should stay if you want to be right near the action.

Becoming the Captain

The concept of GoBoat is brilliant in its simplicity: you rent the boat, and you are the captain.

Admittedly, I was a little nervous about driving a boat in a busy harbor with my family on board. But GoBoat makes it incredibly easy. The boats are steered with a simple tiller, and they don’t go very fast. It’s not about speed; it’s about the journey.

Within five minutes of leaving the dock at Islands Brygge, we felt like pros. There is an immense sense of freedom in choosing your own route, deciding when to drift, and when to cruise.

A Sustainable, Silent Perspective

The first thing you notice when you pull away from the dock is the silence.

GoBoat was designed with sustainability at its core. The engines are green, electric motors charged by solar cells. They are blissfully quiet. This meant we weren't shouting over engine noise; we could actually chat, laugh, and hear the sounds of the city around us. It feels good to enjoy the harbor while knowing you are treating the surroundings with respect and keeping the air clean.

Seeing Copenhagen from the water changes everything. You get to duck under impossibly low, ancient bridges (duck your heads!), glide past super-modern architecture like the Black Diamond library, and wave to locals relaxing on their houseboats. It’s an intimate, authentic view of the city that you just can't get from the street.

The Ultimate Floating Picnic

The centerpiece of a GoBoat is a large wooden picnic table. This is essential. Before boarding, we stocked up on Danish pastries, sandwiches, and drinks.

Cruising through the canals, sharing a meal with the family, with the sun shining (we got lucky!), was pure magic. Whether you are on a family trip like us, a romantic date, or just hanging out with friends, this is the most relaxing way to do lunch in Copenhagen.

Travelling Fox Tip: Book ahead! GoBoat is incredibly popular, especially on sunny weekends. Reserve your slot online weeks before your trip to ensure you get the time you want.

Where to Stay Near the GoBoat Docks

GoBoat Copenhagen departs from Islands Brygge. This is a fantastic, trendy area just south of the city center, known for its harbor baths and lively summer vibe.

If you want to base yourself near the water and be just a short walk or bike ride from your boat rental, here are 6 excellent hotel options nearby, ranging from luxury to cool comfort.

1. Copenhagen Island Hotel This is arguably the closest major hotel to the GoBoat start point. It’s located right on the harbor front, connected to Islands Brygge by a bridge. It’s modern, sleek, and designed by famous architect Kim Utzon. Many rooms offer stunning harbor views, fitting the theme of your water-based adventure perfectly.

2. Tivoli Hotel Located just across the water from Islands Brygge, this is a fantastic option if you are travelling with kids. It’s themed around the famous Tivoli Gardens amusement park and often has family-friendly amenities like a playroom and pool. It’s a short walk over the bridge to get to your boat.

3. Villa Copenhagen If you are looking for "Nordic Luxury," this is it. Located next to the Central Station (a short hop from Islands Brygge), this hotel is housed in the magnificent old Central Post and Telegraph Head Office. It’s grand, sustainable, and features a stunning rooftop pool heated by excess heat from the building’s systems.

4. NH Copenhagen Sitting right at the harbor entrance in the picturesque Christianshavn district, the NH Collection is just across the bridge from the GoBoat area. It's housed in a landmark 1950s building and offers a sophisticated, modern stay with incredible views of the water traffic.

5. AC Hotel by Marriott Bella Sky Copenhagen If you want striking architecture, look a little further south in the Ørestad district (easily connected by metro to Islands Brygge). The Bella Sky’s two leaning towers are iconic. It’s a very modern, design-forward hotel with great views from the upper floors.

6. Next House Copenhagen For a younger vibe or a slightly more budget-friendly option without sacrificing style, Next House is a "luxury hostel" located very close to the harbor front area. It has private rooms, great communal spaces, rooftop terraces, and even an indoor stadium area. It's a very short bike ride to the GoBoat docks.

Watch our full Go Boat adventure in the video below!