The Enchanting Little Mermaid of Copenhagen
Discover the charm of Copenhagen at the iconic Little Mermaid statue, a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen's enchanting fairy tale.
A brief summary to The Little Mermaid
- Langelinie, København Ø, København Ø, 2100, DK
The Little Mermaid is not just a sculpture; it is a cultural icon and a testament to the artistic legacy of Denmark. Created by sculptor Edvard Eriksen and unveiled in 1913, this bronze figure pays homage to Hans Christian Andersen's timeless fairy tale about love, sacrifice, and longing. The statue depicts a mermaid who dreams of becoming human, and its serene expression and delicate features invite visitors to reflect on the story behind it. Located at Langelinie, the Little Mermaid is surrounded by lush green parks and the sparkling waters of the harbor, providing a scenic and tranquil setting. Tourists flock to this site not only to admire the craftsmanship of the statue but also to capture the perfect photograph with this iconic landmark in the background. The area around the statue is well-maintained and offers benches and walking paths, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the views. While the statue itself is relatively small, its significance looms large in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. It serves as a reminder of Denmark's rich literary heritage and its connection to maritime history. Many tourists also explore the nearby attractions, such as the historic Kastellet fortress or the beautiful Gefion Fountain, enhancing their experience in this vibrant part of Copenhagen. The Little Mermaid epitomizes the charm of the Danish capital, making it an essential stop on any travel itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Bring your camera! The area around the statue offers stunning views of the harbor, perfect for memorable photos.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Langelinie promenade, where you can explore parks, cafes, and other attractions nearby.
- Check for local events or performances happening in the surrounding area, as they often enhance the cultural experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport - Bus
If you are starting from the city center (e.g., Rådhuspladsen), walk to the nearest bus stop. Catch bus number 26 towards 'København Ø'. Stay on the bus for about 15-20 minutes. Get off at the 'Langelinie' stop. From there, it's a short walk to The Little Mermaid. Just head towards the waterfront, and you will see the statue along the promenade.
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Public Transport - Metro
From the city center, head to the nearest metro station (e.g., Kongens Nytorv). Take the M4 line towards 'Orientkaj'. Disembark at 'København Nordhavn' station. Exit the station and walk towards the waterfront. Follow the path along the water for about 10-15 minutes, and you will reach The Little Mermaid located at Langelinie.
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Walking
If you are located near Nyhavn, begin your journey by walking north along the waterfront. Continue past the Royal Danish Opera House, and you’ll be walking along the beautiful harbor. This walk will take approximately 25-30 minutes. Keep heading towards Langelinie, and you will find The Little Mermaid at the end of the promenade.
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Bicycle Rental
Copenhagen is bike-friendly, so you can rent a bike from one of the many rental stations across the city. Once you have a bike, head towards the waterfront and follow the bike lanes along the harbor towards Langelinie. The bike ride should take around 15-20 minutes, and you will find The Little Mermaid near the waterfront.