Højbro Plads: Copenhagen’s Storied Civic Square
A bustling, historic square in central Copenhagen, Højbro Plads is renowned for its neoclassical charm, vibrant street life, and landmark Absalon statue.
Højbro Plads is a grand, open square at the heart of Copenhagen, bordered by elegant neoclassical buildings and lively cafés. Once a bustling medieval market and now a central gathering point, it serves as a cultural crossroad, featuring the iconic equestrian statue of Absalon, Copenhagen’s founder. Visitors come for the relaxed cosmopolitan vibe, local art markets, excellent people-watching, and easy access to several of the city’s most historic streets and waterfronts.
A brief summary to Højbro Plads
- Højbro Pl., Copenhagen, Indre By, 1200, DK
Local tips
- The square hosts festive Christmas markets and periodic art fairs—check local event calendars before visiting for special happenings.
- For the best café terraces, head to the southwest part of the square in late afternoon when it catches the sun.
- Keep an eye out for the unique manhole covers featuring city symbols—small details that highlight local pride.
- The Absalon statue makes an easy meeting point and is well-lit for evening gatherings.
Getting There
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Walking
From the vibrant heart of Vesterbro, reach Højbro Plads by strolling toward the city’s main commercial artery. The route brings you through bustling squares lined with boutiques and gradually transitions to the historic lanes that define the Inner City. Expect a relaxed walk of about 20–30 minutes, with the final approach marked by the iconic spire of the city’s grand churches and sounds of nearby street performers. Wide sidewalks and bike lanes make it easy to navigate; there are no admission costs for entry to the square.
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Public Transport
Board a metro or S-train at the major city transport hub near Vesterbro. These lines converge at the central station, from where it’s one or two stops to the downtown core—look for stops near City Hall or the pedestrian shopping zone. From there, Højbro Plads is a short walk, signposted from most major landmarks. Single-zone tickets typically cost around 24 DKK for adults. Stations offer escalator and lift access, and the area is well-connected for mobility-impaired visitors.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from the vibrant Vesterbro area to Højbro Plads in central Copenhagen is quick and convenient, generally taking 8–15 minutes. Expect fares of roughly 90–140 DKK depending on traffic. Taxis can drop you near the square’s entrances, but parking is limited and the area sees heavy pedestrian activity, especially during events or market days.
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