Best Landmarks near Gammel Strand

Højbro is a graceful 19th-century iron arch bridge in the historic heart of Copenhagen, linking the city centre at Højbro Plads with Slotsholmen and Christiansborg Palace across Slotsholmen Canal. Designed by prominent architect Vilhelm Dahlerup and opened in 1878, the steel bridge rests on solid granite plinths and carries cars, cyclists, and pedestrians between the shopping streets of Indre By and Denmark’s political core. Beneath its span, the atmospheric underwater sculpture “Agnete and the Merman” adds a touch of Danish folklore to the cityscape.

Rising above Copenhagen’s central Højbro Plads, the equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon honors the warrior-bishop traditionally regarded as the city’s founder. Unveiled in 1902 on the 700th anniversary of his death, the bronze figure shows Absalon in armor on a rearing horse, facing Christiansborg where his medieval fortress once stood. Its richly detailed brick-and-granite plinth weaves in symbols of herring, the Øresund, and ecclesiastical heraldry, making this compact monument a vivid lesson in how a fishing hamlet grew into Denmark’s capital.

Højbro Plads is a storied public square in the heart of Indre By, Copenhagen. Flanked by grand 18th- and 19th-century buildings, the plaza has long been a gathering place for markets, political movements, and city festivities. Today, it offers visitors a vibrant atmosphere, striking architecture, and a sense of capital life in motion, all steps from major city attractions.

A haunting underwater bronze sculpture group in Copenhagen's Slotsholm Canal depicting a merman and seven sons reaching upward in eternal longing. Created by Danish artist Suste Bonnén in 1992, this hidden gem illustrates the tragic Danish folklore tale of Agnete, who abandoned her underwater family after hearing church bells from land. Visible from Højbro Bridge, the figures are best observed during calm water and enhanced by atmospheric evening lighting.

Amagertorv is Copenhagen's most central public square and the vibrant heart of the Strøget pedestrian zone. Named after medieval Amager farmers who sold produce here, this historic triangular square has anchored Copenhagen's commercial and social life for nearly 1,000 years. Today it's dominated by the iconic Stork Fountain and surrounded by prestigious shops, historic Renaissance buildings, and constant street entertainment, making it an essential stop on any Copenhagen visit.

Strøget is one of Europe's longest pedestrian shopping streets, stretching 1.1 kilometers through the heart of Copenhagen. This iconic thoroughfare connects City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv, offering an eclectic mix of luxury designer boutiques, high street chains, and local Danish shops. Beyond retail, the street pulses with street performers, historic architecture, and charming squares, making it a vibrant cultural hub where shopping, dining, and people-watching converge.

Højbro Plads is Copenhagen's vibrant central square, anchored by an iconic equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, the city's legendary founder. Connecting the bustling Strøget shopping street to Slotsholmen island, this historic gathering space offers stunning views of the Højbro Bridge, Christiansborg Palace, and the picturesque canal. The square pulses with local life year-round, transforming into a festive Christmas market during the holidays and hosting major cultural events like the Copenhagen Jazz Festival.

Set at the heart of Copenhagen’s Amagertorv square on Strøget, the Stork Fountain is a graceful bronze landmark and classic meeting point in the old town. Unveiled in 1894 as a gift in honor of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Louise’s silver wedding anniversary, its trio of storks rises above a circular basin amid elegant historic façades, busy cafés, and flagship shops. Today it is free to visit around the clock and is famed for the joyful tradition of newly graduated midwives dancing around the fountain each spring.

Commanding the heart of Copenhagen’s Indre By, Christiansborg Palace is a grandiose former royal residence now housing Denmark’s parliament, Supreme Court, and state rooms. Visitors are drawn to opulent halls, resplendent royal tapestries, hidden medieval ruins, and panoramic tower views, all layered with over 800 years of monarchical drama and national intrigue.

Standing prominently at Christiansborg Slotsplads, the statue of Frederik VII honours the Danish king who ushered in constitutional monarchy in 1849. This bronze equestrian monument, set in the political heart of Copenhagen, is an emblem of the city’s rich history and the dramatic transition from absolute monarchy to people’s rule. Surrounded by stately government buildings, it provides a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s path toward modern democracy and is an essential stop for visitors intrigued by national heritage.