Inugsuk
Arctic stone monument honoring explorer Peter Freuchen and Inuit heritage on Copenhagen's waterfront.
Inugsuk is an iconic stone cairn monument standing on the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, Denmark. This striking inuksuk—a traditional Inuit stone landmark—was erected in 1998 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Adventures Club of Denmark and the legacy of explorer Peter Freuchen. Located near the famous Little Mermaid statue, it has become a beloved symbol of Arctic heritage and a popular photo spot for visitors exploring Copenhagen's waterfront.
A brief summary to Inugsuk
- Langelinie, Copenhagen, Indre By, 2100, DK
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The waterfront location offers stunning views during golden hour, ideal for photography.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Little Mermaid statue and Langelinie promenade walk. The area is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate the full waterfront landscape.
- Learn about Peter Freuchen's Arctic expeditions before visiting to deepen your appreciation of the monument's historical significance and cultural context.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for photography. The stone cairn's geometric form and waterfront backdrop create compelling compositions from multiple angles.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport from City Center
From Copenhagen Central Station, take the S-train (S1, S2, or S4 line) toward Hellerup or Hillerød and exit at Østerport Station. Journey time is approximately 8-10 minutes. From Østerport, walk northeast along Langelinie toward the waterfront, approximately 10-12 minutes on a flat, scenic route. Total travel time is roughly 25-30 minutes. A single ticket costs approximately 24 DKK (3-4 EUR).
-
Bicycle from City Center
Copenhagen's extensive cycling infrastructure makes this an excellent option. From Nyhavn or central Copenhagen, follow the waterfront cycling paths northward along the harbor. The route is flat, well-marked, and takes approximately 15-20 minutes depending on your starting point. Bike rentals are widely available throughout the city at approximately 60-80 DKK per day (8-11 EUR). This is the most popular local transport method.
-
Taxi or Ride-Share from Cruise Port
If arriving at Oceankaj cruise terminal in Nordhavn, a taxi or Uber ride to Inugsuk takes approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated cost is 80-120 DKK (11-16 EUR) by taxi or 100-150 DKK (13-20 EUR) by Uber. Alternatively, Holland America Line offers a shuttle service to Norges Porten near Inugsuk for 19.95 USD per person with service every 30 minutes.
-
Walking from Little Mermaid
Inugsuk is located directly on the Langelinie promenade, approximately 200-300 meters from the Little Mermaid statue. A leisurely walk along the waterfront takes 5-10 minutes on a flat, paved path with excellent views. This is an ideal approach if you're exploring the waterfront attractions sequentially.
Inugsuk location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Inugsuk
A Monument to Arctic Tradition
Inugsuk stands as a powerful representation of Inuit culture on Copenhagen's waterfront. An inuksuk (also spelled inukshuk) is a traditional stone cairn built by Inuit peoples across the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. These structures have served multiple purposes throughout history—from navigation markers to spiritual symbols to communal gathering points. The Inugsuk in Copenhagen brings this ancient Arctic tradition to the heart of Scandinavia, creating a tangible link between Nordic and Inuit heritage.Historical Significance and Founding
This particular inuksuk was raised on December 13, 1998, marking the 60th anniversary of the Adventures Club of Denmark's foundation by the legendary explorer and adventurer Peter Freuchen. Freuchen was a Danish-Greenlandic explorer, author, and filmmaker who spent much of his life documenting Arctic expeditions and Inuit culture. The monument honors both his pioneering spirit and the club's commitment to adventure and exploration. By placing an inuksuk in Copenhagen, the Adventures Club created a permanent tribute to the Arctic connections that defined Freuchen's life and work.Location and Waterfront Setting
Situated on the Langelinie promenade in the Indre By district, Inugsuk occupies one of Copenhagen's most picturesque and historically significant waterfront areas. The promenade stretches along the harbor's edge, offering panoramic views of the Øresund strait and the Swedish coastline beyond. The location places Inugsuk within walking distance of other major attractions, including the Little Mermaid statue, making it an essential stop on Copenhagen's cultural and historical circuit. The waterfront setting provides a contemplative atmosphere where visitors can reflect on both Arctic heritage and Copenhagen's maritime identity.Cultural Bridge and Modern Recognition
Inugsuk serves as a cultural bridge between Denmark and the Arctic peoples, particularly Greenland, which remains an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The monument acknowledges the deep historical connections between Danish explorers and Arctic communities. In recent decades, inuksuit have gained international recognition, particularly following the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, which featured an inuksuk in its official logo. Today, authentic inuksuit donated by the Canadian government stand in cities worldwide, including Oslo, Washington D.C., and Brisbane, making Inugsuk part of a global network of Arctic cultural symbols.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The monument is freely accessible to all visitors at any time, requiring no entrance fee or advance booking. Its location on the public promenade makes it easily reachable on foot from central Copenhagen. The waterfront setting creates an ideal environment for photography, contemplation, and leisurely walks. Many visitors combine a visit to Inugsuk with exploration of the nearby Little Mermaid statue, Nyhavn's colorful harbor district, or the Citadellet fortress, creating a comprehensive waterfront experience. The open-air nature of the site means visitors can experience it in various weather conditions and seasons, though the winter months offer particularly dramatic lighting for photography.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Monument
0.1 km
Honoring Denmark’s seafaring legacy, the Maritime Monument in Østerbro is a striking, evocative memorial nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s leafy cityscape.
Iver Huitfeldt Memorial
0.4 km
A soaring tribute to Danish heroism, the Iver Huitfeldt Memorial stands sentinel over Copenhagen’s harbor, blending history, artistry, and breathtaking waterfront views.
Our Fallen
0.5 km
A bronze tribute to World War II sacrifice, standing sentinel at Kastellet's gate since 1957.
Horn mine
0.6 km
A disarmed World War II naval mine displayed in Churchill Park, turning a former weapon of the sea into a quiet reminder of conflict amid central Copenhagen’s greenery.
St. Paul's Church
0.9 km
Neo‑Romanesque red brick meets ochre-yellow naval housing at this calm parish church, giving Nyboder a quiet spiritual heart amid central Copenhagen.
I am Queen Mary
0.9 km
A powerful harborfront monument honoring rebel leader Mary Thomas, confronting Copenhagen’s colonial past beside the historic West Indian Warehouse.
Nyholm Central Guardhouse
0.9 km
Discover Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, where historic charm meets a lively cultural scene, bustling cafés, artisan shops, and rich Danish heritage in the city’s oldest district.
Larsens Pl.
1.1 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
Amalienborg Palace
1.1 km
Explore the grandeur of Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen, a stunning royal residence showcasing rich history and exquisite architecture.
Rytterstatuen
1.1 km
A towering bronze king on horseback, Rytterstatuen anchors Amalienborg’s royal square, uniting art, power and urban design in the heart of Copenhagen.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
1.3 km
A modest plaque on elegant Amaliegade quietly marks Hans Christian Andersen’s presence amid the formal mansions and palace axis of Copenhagen’s Frederiksstaden.
Copenhagen Opera House
1.4 km
An architectural landmark on Copenhagen’s harbor, the Opera House blends Scandinavian design with world-class performances and spectacular waterfront views.
The King's Garden
1.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of The King's Garden, a historical park in Copenhagen surrounding the majestic Rosenborg Castle, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Sankt Annæ Pl.
1.4 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
The Kissing Stairs
1.4 km
Copenhagen's beloved waterfront amphitheatre where culture, community, and harbour views converge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Monument to Denmark's international activities after 1948
0.2 km
A quiet, contemporary memorial within Copenhagen’s star-shaped fortress, honoring Denmark’s post‑1948 international missions with flame, stone and thoughtful space.
The Little Mermaid
0.3 km
Historic harbor district ablaze with color, culture, and canals—Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s most iconic and photogenic waterfront destination.
Kastellet
0.3 km
Explore Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen's Renaissance masterpiece housing Denmark's crown jewels and royal regalia.
Langelinie Pavillonen
0.3 km
Experience modernist elegance and panoramic harbor views at Copenhagen's iconic Langelinie Pavillonen.
Langelinieparken
0.4 km
Leafy waterfront lawns, sculptures and sea views where cruise ships, mythic fountains and Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid all meet along a single harbourfront walk.
Langelinie Park
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's first public museum, showcasing the neoclassical masterpieces of Bertel Thorvaldsen in the heart of Copenhagen.
The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid by Bjørn Nørgaard
0.5 km
A darkly playful harbourfront sculpture that twists Copenhagen’s fairytale mermaid into a sharp, bronze critique of genetics, icons and postmodern life.
Gefion Fountain
0.5 km
Copenhagen’s creation myth cast in bronze, the Gefion Fountain hurls goddess, oxen and water into a powerful tableau beside the harbour and Churchillparken.
St Alban's Church
0.6 km
Step into history and legend at Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed as Hamlet’s ‘Elsinore,’ overlooking the spectacular Øresund Strait.
Den Frie Udstilling
0.6 km
Independent artist-run exhibition house in a striking wooden building, presenting changing contemporary art shows in the heart of Copenhagen’s Østerbro district.
ZinkGlobal by Kim Michael
0.6 km
A contemplative scrap-metal thinker on Copenhagen’s harborfront, ZinkGlobal fuses recycled machinery with big ideas about the future and our industrial past.
Segway Cruise Copenhagen
0.6 km
Discover St Alban’s Church, Copenhagen’s only Anglican church, where neo-Gothic architecture and lush parkland meet Danish and British history near the city's harbor.
Museum of Danish Resistance
0.7 km
Go underground beneath Churchill Park to follow five real lives through Denmark’s World War II occupation, in an immersive museum of resistance, choices and courage.
Langelinie
0.7 km
Copenhagen’s classic harbourfront promenade, where sea air, green parkland, and iconic sculptures like The Little Mermaid meet at the edge of the Øresund.
Kongeskibet Dannebrog
0.7 km
An elegant white royal yacht moored in Copenhagen’s harbour, Kongeskibet Dannebrog is a floating palace, naval vessel and living symbol of modern Danish monarchy.
Essential places to dine
Veve
0.4 km
A destination for innovative, plant-based fine dining in Østerbro, where Nordic purity meets global flavors for an unforgettable vegetarian tasting menu experience.
Dag H
0.9 km
Stylish Østerbro brasserie offering classic bistro plates, all-day dining, and a cosmopolitan terrace in Copenhagen’s embassy quarter.
Kokkeriet
1.0 km
Intimate Michelin-starred townhouse in central Copenhagen, reimagining classic Danish cuisine as elegant modern tasting menus with curated wines and juices.
La Banchina
1.1 km
Tiny blue harbour house on Refshaleøen blending seasonal pescatarian cooking, natural wines, sauna culture and swims into one uniquely Copenhagen experience.
Alchemist
1.2 km
A boundary-pushing Copenhagen icon where fine dining, art installation and social commentary fuse into a five-hour, 50-course immersive experience under a vast projected dome.
Hos Fischer
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian trattoria dining and neighborhood hospitality at Hos Fischer, a beloved Østerbro culinary gem near the tranquil green heart of Copenhagen.
Aoc
1.3 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
Restaurant Rebel
1.3 km
Seasonal Danish produce meets French technique at this relaxed, MICHELIN-recommended bistro on Store Kongensgade, where an open kitchen and inventive plates define the mood.
Restaurant Koefoed
1.4 km
Fine dining in a historic coal cellar celebrating Bornholm's culinary traditions and Danish gastronomy.
Restaurant Vita
1.4 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
Sushi Anaba
1.4 km
Europe's finest omakase counter, where Nordic seafood meets Tokyo precision in an eight-seat sanctuary of culinary excellence.
Den Lille Fede
1.5 km
Cosy, candlelit tasting-menu restaurant near Kongens Nytorv, where playful Nordic-inspired courses and thoughtful wine pairings turn dinner into an unhurried evening event.
Alouette
1.5 km
One‑Michelin‑star Green Star dining in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, where hyper‑seasonal Nordic tasting menus meet quietly striking design by the King’s Garden.
Goldfinch
1.5 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Nyhavns Færgekro
1.5 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crown souvenir
0.7 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Royal Souvenir Shop
1.1 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
Red Cross Op Shop
1.2 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
The Wilde Shop
1.5 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Zane
1.5 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Maritime Antiques &
1.5 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
1.6 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Copenhagenglass
1.6 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
1.6 km
Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Storm - design art fashion
1.7 km
A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
1.7 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Viking Souvenirs
1.7 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
1.7 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
1.7 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Norse Projects
1.8 km
Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Swan
1.0 km
Craft-forward, cosy and unpretentious, Black Swan is Copenhagen’s inner-city local where rotating taps, serious cider and good conversation flow late into the night.
Chevy's
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chevy's in Østerbro, Copenhagen—where delicious drinks and good company create unforgettable nights.
ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik - Østerbro
1.1 km
Explore the finest wines at ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik in Østerbro, Copenhagen – where every sip tells a story.
Østerbros Perle Pub
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
ØB
1.2 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
Trianglen 7
1.3 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
Søernes Ølbar
1.3 km
Discover Søernes Ølbar, a cozy craft beer haven by Copenhagen's lakes, offering an extensive selection of brews and breathtaking views.
Aloha Beach Bar
1.5 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Bar Deco
1.6 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Trykbar
1.6 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
Tap10
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Balthazar
1.7 km
A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
Brønnum
1.7 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
The Moose
1.7 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
