Hotel Astoria: Historic settings and modern hospitality in the heart of Copenhagen

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Hotel Astoria

Hotel Astoria is one of Copenhagen’s most characterful city landmarks – a place where a unique architectural history meets an almost impossibly convenient location beside the central railway station. Today, this heritage-listed hotel combines its original 1930s atmosphere with CIC Hospitality’s focus on technology-supported service and BWH Hotels’ commitment to authentic hospitality, resulting in an award-winning work environment that benefits both guests and employees.

Built in 1935 as Denmark’s first purpose-designed railway hotel, Hotel Astoria remains a living piece of Copenhagen history. Many original details have been carefully preserved, allowing guests to step into an ambience that feels both authentic and timeless. “It is like entering a time capsule. Because the building is protected, guests get a unique experience where the soul of the place is maintained,” says hotel manager Oliver Strandvig Holm. “We have kept the original character with cabinets, doors and many other details intact from the original hotel.”

While the atmosphere is historic, much of the hotel’s inner workings have been modernised to support its guest-first philosophy. CIC Hospitality, the operator behind the hotel, integrates new technological tools to free staff from traditional reception desks and allow them to act primarily as attentive hosts. As Holm notes, “Our whole philosophy is to put the guest at the centre. We look for technological solutions that let us be present for the guests, not tied to a counter.” This approach aligns closely with BWH Hotels, Scandinavia’s largest group of family-owned hotels, which emphasises genuine, personal and authentic hospitality across all its properties.

Built in 1935, the heritage-listed Hotel Astoria features many charming original details.

Of course, part of Astoria’s lasting charm is its unbeatable location. Set directly beside Copenhagen Central Station, the hotel attracts guests from across Denmark and around the world. “No matter what people need to do, it is easy to get here,” Holm explains. “You have the whole city outside the door, and you can step straight onto the train or bus.” This convenience makes the hotel as popular with leisure travellers as with business guests and those catching early departures from Copenhagen airport.

Yet what truly defines Hotel Astoria today is its commitment to creating a warm, welcoming work environment – something that guests feel the moment they arrive. CIC Hospitality has awarded the hotel its culture award for three consecutive years, for its inclusive atmosphere and strong staff values. “If people feel good at work, the guests feel good too,” Holm says. “You want to go that extra mile because it feels natural.”

Hotel Astoria: Historic settings and modern hospitality in the heart of Copenhagen