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The King's New Square: Copenhagen’s Grand Historic Plaza

Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen’s grandest square, blends royal history, iconic architecture, and bustling urban energy in the very heart of Denmark’s capital.

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Kongens Nytorv, or The King’s New Square, is the majestic heart of Copenhagen’s Indre By. Framed by iconic buildings and palatial facades, this bustling square dates back to the 17th century and remains the city’s main historic gathering place. Renowned for its equestrian statue, grand hotels, vibrant flower stalls, and as a central orientation point, it’s an essential stop for both strolling locals and first-time visitors exploring Denmark’s capital.

A brief summary to The King's New Square

Local tips

  • Take a seat by the central statue for fantastic people-watching and city photography.
  • The Royal Danish Theatre offers guided tours; check schedules if you’re interested in local culture.
  • Nyhavn, with its picturesque canal views and eateries, is just a couple of minutes’ walk from the square.
  • Visit during winter to experience the lively ice rink and holiday decorations.
  • Public restrooms can be found in nearby department stores and metro stations around the square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Kongens Nytorv anchors the core of Indre By. From the city’s central pedestrian lanes and main shopping areas, it’s a quick and level stroll—often less than 10 minutes—from major landmarks, with the square’s broad layout and prominent statue serving as unmistakable guides. Expect easy, step-free access suitable for all visitors.

  • Public Transport

    Kongens Nytorv is directly served by the metro at the large Kongens Nytorv station, connecting all central metro lines. A single trip within the city center typically costs 24 DKK. Numerous city buses also stop here, making connections easy and efficient.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from anywhere in central Copenhagen typically takes around 5–10 minutes and costs approximately 80–120 DKK, depending on distance and traffic. Taxis can usually drop passengers at the edges of the square, but the area may be pedestrianized during events.

  • Driving/Parking

    Driving to Kongens Nytorv is possible but parking is very limited and expensive in the surrounding streets and underground garages, averaging 36–50 DKK per hour. Short stays are best, and public transport is recommended for convenience.

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Discover more about The King's New Square

Kongens Nytorv, literally 'The King’s New Square', radiates timeless grandeur and vibrant urban life as the centerpiece of Copenhagen’s Indre By. Established in 1670 under King Christian V as a symbol of royal ambition and city pride, the square’s history unfolds through every stone and statue. Once conceived to rival the grand plazas of Paris and Amsterdam, today Kongens Nytorv is both a beloved meeting spot for Copenhageners and a magnet for travelers eager to immerse themselves in Danish city culture. The square is crowned by the imposing equestrian statue of Christian V at its center, a powerful reminder of Copenhagen’s monarchical past. Surrounding its broad cobbled expanse are some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks: the opulent Hotel d’Angleterre, storied Royal Danish Theatre, and the eye-catching Nyhavn canal with its colorful townhouses just steps away. In warmer months, flower vendors add a cheerful burst of color while outdoor cafés buzz with conversation. Winter sees the square transformed into a festive ice-skating rink wrapped with sparkling lights. Architecturally, this plaza forms an elegant transition point, uniting the city’s shopping boulevards, cultural institutions, and historical thoroughfares. Its open space has hosted parades, rallies, and celebrations for centuries, bearing witness to Denmark’s evolution from kingdom to modern state. Easy to find and free to enter, Kongens Nytorv is much more than a crossroads—it is the living, breathing front room of Copenhagen, inviting visitors to pause, observe, and soak up the atmosphere of Danish daily life.

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