Nyhavn
Copenhagen's iconic 17th-century harbor where colorful townhouses, maritime history, and vibrant waterfront culture converge.
Copenhagen's most iconic waterfront destination, Nyhavn is a 17th-century canal lined with brilliantly colored townhouses, historic wooden ships, and vibrant cafés. Once a bustling port frequented by sailors and home to Hans Christian Andersen, this picturesque harbor now offers outdoor dining, canal tours, live jazz, and a charming Christmas market in winter. Perfect for leisurely strolls, people-watching, and experiencing authentic Danish hygge.
A brief summary to Nyhavn
- K, Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1051, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning on weekdays to experience Nyhavn with fewer crowds and better photography opportunities. Weekends and summer afternoons draw peak tourist traffic.
- Look for lunch menu specials (marked as 'Frokost' in Danish) at restaurants, which offer significantly better value than evening à la carte pricing.
- Take a canal tour departing from the quay to experience Copenhagen's waterfront from a unique perspective and access areas unreachable on foot.
- In winter, the Christmas market typically closes by 6 PM on weekdays, so plan accordingly. The festive atmosphere and gløgg stalls are worth experiencing despite cold temperatures.
- The Copenhagen Card provides free access to canal tours, museums, and public transportation—excellent value if visiting multiple attractions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Copenhagen Metro to Kongens Nytorv station, served by all four lines (M1, M2, M3, M4). The station is located at the far end of Kongens Nytorv square, approximately 4–8 minutes' walk from Nyhavn's entrance. Journey times from central Copenhagen typically range from 5–15 minutes depending on origin. Metro operates frequently throughout the day with reduced service late evening.
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Harbour Bus
Use the Copenhagen Harbour Bus system, with Routes 901, 902, 903, and 904 all stopping at the bus stop adjacent to the Royal Playhouse at Nyhavn's mouth. These water-based buses offer scenic transport and operate year-round with varying frequency by season. Journey times depend on boarding location but typically range from 10–30 minutes from other harbor attractions.
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Walking
Walk from Kongens Nytorv square (4 minutes) or from Christianshavn district via the Inderhavnsbro pedestrian and cycling drawbridge, known locally as the Kissing Bridge (approximately 10 minutes). The route is flat, well-marked, and passes through Copenhagen's charming historic center with cobblestone streets and waterfront views.
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Cycling
Copenhagen's extensive cycling infrastructure makes bike travel convenient. The Inderhavnsbro drawbridge accommodates cyclists from Christianshavn, and dedicated cycle lanes connect to Nyhavn from surrounding neighborhoods. Journey times typically 5–15 minutes depending on origin. Bike parking is available throughout the area.
Nyhavn location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nyhavn
A Gateway Between Past and Present
Nyhavn, meaning "New Harbour," was constructed by King Christian V between 1670 and 1675 as a vital connection between Copenhagen's inner city at Kongens Nytorv and the sea. Originally dug by Danish soldiers and Swedish prisoners of war, the canal transformed into one of Europe's most recognizable waterfronts. The northern quay is lined with brightly painted 17th and early 18th-century townhouses, their facades painted in warm yellows, reds, greens, and blues that have become synonymous with Copenhagen itself. The oldest standing structure, Nyhavn 9, dates from 1681 and remains one of the finest examples of original architecture. The southern side features more lavish mansions, including Charlottenborg Palace, creating an architectural dialogue across the water.Literary Legacy and Cultural Significance
Nyhavn holds profound importance in Danish literary history as the longtime home of Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark's most celebrated author. The fairy-tale writer lived at three different addresses along the canal: Nyhavn 20 (1834–1838), Nyhavn 18, and most notably Nyhavn 67, where he spent approximately 20 years. It was during his residence here that Andersen penned some of his most beloved works, including "The Tinderbox," "Little Claus and Big Claus," and "The Princess and the Pea." Memorial plaques mark these historic residences, and Nyhavn 18 now houses an Andersen-themed souvenir shop. The area's cultural magnetism extended to other notable figures; composer Niels Clemmesen also lived at Nyhavn 17 in the 1920s. This concentration of creative talent reflects how integral Nyhavn was to Copenhagen's intellectual and artistic circles.From Sailors' Haven to Modern Gathering Place
In its early centuries, Nyhavn earned a reputation as a rough-and-tumble maritime district, notorious for beer halls, sailors from around the world, and the seedier aspects of port life. The narrow quays bustled with commercial activity as ships unloaded cargo and fishermen's catches. By the 1980s, comprehensive restoration transformed the area while preserving its historic character. Today, the wooden ships that once represented working commerce now serve as atmospheric reminders of maritime heritage. The old warehouses have been thoughtfully renovated into cafés, restaurants, and shops that respect the original architecture while meeting contemporary needs.Seasonal Rhythms and Atmospheric Experiences
Nyhavn's character shifts dramatically with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer transforms the quayside into a vibrant social hub where office workers, tourists, and locals converge at outdoor tables, often wrapped in blankets as they enjoy beers and traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches). Live jazz music frequently fills the air, creating a relaxed, convivial atmosphere that epitomizes Danish hygge. The summer months showcase the canal's beauty under extended daylight, with the colorful facades reflecting in the water and creating endless photographic opportunities. Winter brings an equally enchanting transformation: the annual Christmas market fills the cobbled streets with decorated stalls and twinkling lights, while the aroma of gløgg (mulled wine) and the warmth of seasonal hospitality create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Even on cold winter days, locals and visitors huddle under blankets at outdoor tables, embracing the Nordic tradition of finding comfort in the elements.Culinary and Entertainment Hub
Nyhavn has evolved into Copenhagen's premier destination for waterfront dining and entertainment. The canal is lined with restaurants and cafés offering everything from traditional Danish cuisine to modern Nordic plates and international fare. Fresh seafood features prominently, with smørrebrød and fish dishes reflecting the area's maritime heritage. The outdoor seating areas provide unparalleled people-watching opportunities, and many establishments feature live music, particularly jazz performances that have become synonymous with summer evenings. Canal tours depart regularly from the quay, offering visitors a unique perspective of Copenhagen from the water and access to the city's broader waterfront landscape. The area's dining scene caters to various budgets, though set menus and lunch specials often provide better value than à la carte evening options.Visual Icon and Cultural Ambassador
Nyhavn's distinctive aesthetic has made it one of the world's most photographed locations, featured in countless postcards, travel guides, and social media platforms. The composition of colorful buildings, historic wooden vessels, and animated waterfront life creates an almost impossibly picturesque scene. This visual prominence has led to its appearance in numerous films and television productions, most notably the 2015 drama "The Danish Girl," starring Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander. The location serves as a cultural ambassador for Copenhagen itself, instantly recognizable to travelers worldwide and functioning as a symbol of Danish design sensibility, maritime history, and the contemporary Nordic lifestyle that balances heritage preservation with modern living.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sankt Annæ Pl.
0.2 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen
0.2 km
A lush botanical oasis at the heart of Copenhagen, featuring historic glasshouses, rare Nordic plants, tranquil lakes, and immersive gardens for every season.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
0.3 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.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
0.5 km
Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Larsens Pl.
0.6 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
Knippelsbro
0.6 km
Copper-topped towers, lifting roadway and harbor breezes make Knippelsbro a compact, characterful bridge linking historic Slotsholmen with canalside Christianshavn.
C.F. Tietgens Hus
0.6 km
A Neoclassical monument to Danish banking heritage and industrial vision, built for one of history's most influential entrepreneurs.
Copenhagen Opera House
0.6 km
An architectural landmark on Copenhagen’s harbor, the Opera House blends Scandinavian design with world-class performances and spectacular waterfront views.
Holmens Bro
0.7 km
A modest granite arch in central Copenhagen that quietly connects Slotsholmen’s palaces with the city’s streets, offering classic harbour views and everyday urban life.
Børsen
0.7 km
Copenhagen's legendary Dragon Spire and Dutch Renaissance masterpiece—a 400-year-old trading hub bearing witness to centuries of Danish commerce.
Højbro Pl.
0.7 km
Maskinrummet is Skagen’s maritime museum and café, featuring historic marine engines, hands-on exhibits, and harbor-side atmosphere in Denmark’s northernmost town.
Christianshavn
0.7 km
Maritime charm meets modern cool in Copenhagen's most picturesque neighbourhood of coloured houses and idyllic canals.
Frederik VII
0.7 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.7 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
Højbro Plads
0.7 km
Explore Højbro Plads, a vibrant square in Copenhagen that beautifully blends history, culture, and lively atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn
0.0 km
A modest canal bridge with a grand view, Nyhavnsbroen is the perfect perch above Copenhagen’s most colourful harbour and its centuries of maritime stories.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg
0.2 km
Historic Charlottenborg Palace transformed into one of Northern Europe’s leading contemporary art halls, blending bold exhibitions with Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv views.
Memorial Anchor
0.2 km
Explore one of Europe’s oldest zoos, home to over 3,000 animals, award-winning architecture, immersive habitats, conservation programs, and engaging family activities.
Copenhagen Amber Museum
0.2 km
A tiny 17th‑century townhouse on Kongens Nytorv where Baltic amber, ancient insects and Scandinavian craft turn deep time into a warm, golden museum experience.
The Playhouse
0.2 km
A beautiful English gothic church in the heart of Copenhagen, St Alban’s blends British heritage and Danish history beside the city’s iconic fortifications.
The Kissing Stairs
0.3 km
Stroll along Langelinie, Copenhagen’s bustling waterfront, where iconic statues, historic parkland, and sweeping harbor views create a quintessential maritime escape.
Bredgade 18
0.3 km
A quietly elegant address on Copenhagen’s grand Bredgade, surrounded by Frederiksstaden’s mansions, churches and design showrooms in the heart of the city.
Hey Captain
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where shopping, dining, and culture converge in a historic market square.
Ofelia Plads
0.3 km
A UNESCO-listed Renaissance fortress where royal history, sea vistas, and Hamlet legends converge at the gateway between Denmark and Sweden.
The Royal Playhouse and The Old Stage
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s national theatre in two acts: a gilded 19th‑century Old Stage on Kongens Nytorv and a bold modern playhouse rising directly above the harbour waters.
Kongens Nytorv
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s grand royal square, where theatres, palaces, luxury hotels and metro lines meet above a lively, ever-changing city stage.
Inderhavnsbroen
0.3 km
Explore the evolution of Danish design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
Havnepromenade
0.3 km
Discover Copenhagen’s Garden of the Royal Library: an elegant and tranquil retreat bridging royal heritage and modern design in the heart of the Danish capital.
Havnegade Promenaden
0.3 km
Slottsträdgården is Malmö’s central organic garden retreat, blending vibrant themed gardens, historic castle views, and lively year-round events in a lush urban oasis.
Indre By
0.4 km
A storied sanctuary in Nørrebro, Assistens Cemetery blends tranquil nature, remarkable history, and the celebrated graves of Danish luminaries.
Essential places to dine
Skipperkroen
0.1 km
Harbourfront smørrebrød and seafood in an 18th‑century Nyhavn house, pairing classic Danish flavours with canal views from cosy rooms and a lively terrace.
Khun Juk
0.1 km
Refined Thai dining tucked into Copenhagen’s iconic Nyhavn, where candlelit tables, fresh flowers and layered flavors turn dinner into an intimate evening event.
Cap Horn
0.1 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
Nyhavns Færgekro
0.2 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.
à terre
0.3 km
à terre brings French fine dining infused with Nordic creativity to central Copenhagen, offering an intimate, innovative tasting menu experience near Copenhagen’s key attractions.
Goldfinch
0.3 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Aoc
0.4 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
Restaurant Barr
0.4 km
Modern North Sea cuisine, serious beer and warm Nordic design meet in a historic harbor-front warehouse in the heart of Copenhagen’s Christianshavn.
Marchal
0.4 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
Bistro Royal
0.4 km
Elegant all‑day French‑Danish bistro on Kongens Nytorv, pairing brasserie classics with prime people‑watching and a lively, chandelier‑lit atmosphere.
Den Lille Fede
0.4 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.
Restaurant Vita
0.4 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
Llama
0.4 km
Latin American flavors, bold cocktails and patterned-tile design bring Peruvian and Mexican energy to a lively, late-night restaurant just off Kongens Nytorv.
King Hans Cellar
0.4 km
Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
Frank
0.4 km
A candlelit Copenhagen luxury bistro where an open kitchen, bold seasonal cooking and an exceptional wine list create an intimate, wine-lover’s evening.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Copenhagenglass
0.1 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Maritime Antiques &
0.1 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.
Zane
0.2 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.4 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
The Wilde Shop
0.4 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Magasin du Nord
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Viking Souvenirs
0.4 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.4 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
0.4 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Royal Souvenir Shop
0.5 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.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
Storm - design art fashion
0.6 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.
ILLUM
0.6 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Danish Souvenirs
0.7 km
Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.7 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brønnum
0.3 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
TATA Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
Aloha Beach Bar
0.5 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
0.5 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Balthazar
0.5 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.
1105
0.5 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
Eiffel bar
0.7 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere of Eiffel Bar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a charming setting.
The Moose
0.7 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.
Charlie's Bar
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
K-Bar
0.7 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
Ved Stranden
0.7 km
Canal-side natural wine bar and shop in a historic townhouse, blending Copenhagen charm, thoughtful bottles and relaxed, living-room warmth by Christiansborg Palace.
Trykbar
0.7 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.
The Dubliner
0.8 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
Black Swan
0.8 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.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
