Nyhavn: Copenhagen’s Historic Canal and Living Postcard
Nyhavn—Copenhagen’s vibrant 17th-century canal district, famous for its colorful facades, historic tall ships, and lively harborside cafes at the city’s heart.
Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s iconic 17th-century waterfront, known for its vividly painted townhouses and wooden sailing ships. Once home to merchants and writers (including Hans Christian Andersen), today it buzzes with cafes and bars. Its cobbled quays brim with energy and history—offering a timeless Danish experience all year round.
A brief summary to Gråbrødretorv
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon for beautiful golden-hour photos and a lively atmosphere as cafes fill with locals.
- Try a classic Danish open-faced sandwich (smørrebrød) at one of the harborside eateries for the full local experience.
- The historic canal boat tours depart from Nyhavn—perfect for a unique perspective of the city and its waterfront architecture.
- In winter, Nyhavn hosts a cozy Christmas market with mulled wine and festive stalls—a magical experience for visitors.
- Be aware that outdoor seating is popular and can be pricier than indoor options, especially in summer.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Arriving from Helsingør’s central area, travelers can easily reach Copenhagen by regional train. Upon arrival at Copenhagen Central Station, Nyhavn is most conveniently accessed via the city’s efficient metro system, with trains departing regularly toward Kongens Nytorv—a major central hub just beside Nyhavn. The journey on public transport from Helsingør generally ranges from 45 to 60 minutes, with a standard adult ticket costing around 100-120 DKK one way. Walking from Kongens Nytorv into Nyhavn’s colorful canal area takes less than five minutes, with the vibrant townhouses and historic ships instantly in view.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Helsingør and provide a flexible but considerably pricier option for reaching Nyhavn. The drive to central Copenhagen typically takes 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately 900–1200 DKK for the journey. Drop-off is possible near Kongens Nytorv, at the edge of bustling Nyhavn. Note that parking availability in the harbor area is limited and often expensive.
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Driving
Travelers who choose to drive will follow the main motorway connecting Helsingør with Copenhagen. Once within the city, look for public parking options around the Kongens Nytorv and central harbor districts, keeping in mind that parking fees can range from 25 to 45 DKK per hour. The final minutes of travel will pass notable city landmarks and the scenic city center before arriving at Nyhavn’s pedestrian-friendly quays.
Discover more about Gråbrødretorv
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Amagertorv
0.2 km
Aarhus’s University Park blends Danish modernist architecture, lush gardens, and student life into one of the city’s most tranquil and historically significant green spaces.
Nytorv 2
0.3 km
Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter blends medieval lanes, bohemian charm, vibrant cafés, and local boutiques, making it the creative soul of Denmark’s second-largest city.
Gammeltorv
0.3 km
Discover Copenhagen's only Russian Orthodox Church, renowned for its gilded domes, lavish icons, and evocative ties to Denmark's royal and multicultural heritage.
Nytorv
0.3 km
Historic domed observatory in Aarhus offering inspiring stargazing nights, public tours, and a glimpse into Denmark’s astronomical history atop a leafy city hill.
Højbro Pl.
0.3 km
Step inside the Ole Rømer Observatory in Aarhus for immersive astronomy, captivating night sky sessions, and an Art Nouveau landmark with Danish scientific heritage.
Kultorvet
0.3 km
Kultorvet is a historic cobbled square in Copenhagen’s city center, where centuries-old traditions blend with modern café culture, street performances, and community gatherings.
Højbro
0.3 km
Aarhus University Park: Where world-renowned academic heritage, Danish modernism, and lush green landscapes meet in the heart of Aarhus for a uniquely peaceful escape.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.4 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
Fiolstræde 42
0.4 km
Historic observatory blending astronomy, science education, and star-gazing experiences in a tranquil woodland setting just outside Aarhus' vibrant city center.
Amitylux Tours | Exceptional Guided City Tours
0.4 km
Experience the timeless grandeur of Lund Cathedral, an iconic Romanesque landmark in southern Sweden, renowned for its history, art, and enduring spiritual presence.
Frederik VII
0.5 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.5 km
Explore Denmark's industrial past at Industrimuseet in Horsens, an interactive museum with working machines, workshops, and personal stories from Denmark's iron and steam era.
Nørre Voldgade 11
0.5 km
Explore the cosmos at Aarhus' historic Ole Rømer Observatory, home to Denmark's largest functioning telescope and rich astronomical heritage.
The Danish Parliament
0.5 km
Experience Skagen’s rich maritime and industrial heritage, with vintage engines, interactive exhibits, and a harbor-inspired café in a welcoming community setting.
Holmens Bro
0.5 km
Historic cobblestone lanes, colorful houses, indie boutiques, and a bohemian café scene—Aarhus’s Latin Quarter is the city’s creative, cultural soul.
Unmissable attractions to see
Balderdash
0.1 km
Experience innovative cocktails in a historic 1732 building at Copenhagen's Balderdash.
The Round Tower
0.2 km
Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s most colorful canal, blending centuries-old waterfront houses with lively cafés, wooden ships, and unforgettable harbor views.
Københavns Synagoge
0.2 km
Discover Helsingør’s St. Mary’s Church—a masterpiece of Danish Gothic architecture with a serene Carmelite monastery, historic treasures, and centuries of stories.
Stork Fountain
0.2 km
A dazzling Russian Orthodox landmark in Copenhagen’s Indre By, St. Alexander Nevsky Church unites vibrant architecture, royal history, and a contemplative spiritual atmosphere.
Church of Our Lady
0.2 km
Lively, colourful canal harbour in central Copenhagen known for vibrant houses, historic ships, waterside cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Gammel Strand
0.3 km
Denmark's stately national gallery with masterpieces from the Renaissance to modern art, housed in a striking blend of classical and contemporary architecture in Copenhagen.
Højbro Plads
0.3 km
Copenhagen Zoo in Frederiksberg blends heritage, innovation, and wildlife in stunning habitats, featuring over 250 animal species and world-class conservation initiatives.
Bishop Absalon
0.3 km
Explore Denmark's labor history through immersive exhibits in Copenhagen's historic Workers' Assembly Hall.
Weirdwalks Byvandring
0.3 km
Stroll the storied harbor promenade, discover Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid, lush parks, and maritime sculptures along the scenic Langelinie waterfront.
Pub Crawl Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modernity at Sankt Hans Torv, Nørrebro's lively public square.
Skaal
0.3 km
Award-winning modernist concert hall in Copenhagen’s Ørestad, famed for acoustic excellence, innovative design, and unforgettable live music experiences.
Stromma Canal Tours
0.4 km
Discover the world of 'Nordic gold' at the Copenhagen Amber Museum, where history, science, and stunning amber artifacts meet in Nyhavn’s oldest house.
Ved Stranden
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s famous waterfront promenade blending royal history, iconic monuments, and scenic strolls along the city’s vibrant harborside.
Nikolaj Art Gallery
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's Skjoldungestien: A 40 km trail through ancient Viking sites and stunning natural landscapes.
Segway Tours Copenhagen
0.4 km
Experience Denmark's largest comedy theater in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district.
Essential places to dine
Wining and Dining
0.0 km
Experience the essence of Danish cuisine at Wining and Dining in Copenhagen - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Det Lille Apotek
0.1 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Det Lille Apotek in Copenhagen - a perfect blend of tradition and flavor.
Restaurant Tight
0.2 km
Discover creative dishes and exceptional service at Restaurant Tight in Copenhagen’s Indre By district.
Københavner Cafeen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Københavner Cafeen – a cozy spot in Copenhagen's heart offering delicious meals for every palate.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.3 km
Discover authentic Danish smørrebrød and timeless hospitality in a centuries-old cellar, set in the historic heart of Copenhagen’s lively city center.
Marv & Ben
0.3 km
Discover Marv & Ben: A premier destination for fine Danish dining blending tradition with modernity in the heart of Copenhagen.
The Olive Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Discover exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at The Olive Kitchen & Bar in Copenhagen - where flavors come alive in an inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant Schønnemann
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s historic Schønnemann offers authentic smørrebrød and aquavit in a cozy, old-world setting, serving classic Danish flavors since 1877 near the city’s landmarks.
Restaurant 1733
0.4 km
Historic canal-side setting in Copenhagen’s center serving creative Danish classics and regional specialties with genuine hygge and a modern twist.
Restaurant Maven
0.4 km
Atmospheric Danish restaurant inside Copenhagen’s historic Nikolaj Church—offering modern Nordic cuisine, inventive wines, and a setting rich in cultural heritage.
Krebsegaarden
0.4 km
Discover Krebsegaarden: A premier seafood restaurant in Copenhagen offering exquisite dishes in a charming atmosphere.
Restaurant Puk
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Danish cuisine at Restaurant Puk in Copenhagen – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Husmanns Vinstue
0.4 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Husmanns Vinstue in Copenhagen – where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
l’Alsace
0.4 km
Discover authentic Alsatian cuisine at l’Alsace in Copenhagen, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Llama
0.5 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors at Llama in Copenhagen – where vibrant cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Studio Arhoj
0.1 km
Studio Arhoj fuses Scandinavian and Japanese influences into vibrant, hand-crafted ceramics, making it a unique design destination in central Copenhagen.
Strøget
0.2 km
Strøget is Copenhagen’s vibrant pedestrian heart—Europe’s original walking street, lined with shops, cafés, historic facades, and street performers.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.2 km
Nestled on a lively Copenhagen shopping street, Det Gamle Apotek enchants visitors with nostalgic Danish gifts, festive decor, and whimsical home accessories year-round.
Time's Up Vintage
0.2 km
Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.2 km
Explore Danish history and craftsmanship at Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store, an iconic destination for hand-painted porcelain, elegant collectibles, and Nordic design.
Læderstræde
0.2 km
Læderstræde is a historic pedestrian street in central Copenhagen, offering a blend of independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and authentic Danish ambiance year-round.
ILLUM
0.3 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
0.4 km
Henrik Vibskov Boutique: Explore boundary-pushing Danish design and avant-garde fashion in a gallery-inspired setting in central Copenhagen.
Storm - design art fashion
0.4 km
Avant-garde design, progressive fashion, niche perfume, and rare art books unite at Copenhagen’s Storm—an iconic concept store in the city’s creative core.
Quirky Lane
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Quirky Lane, Copenhagen's eclectic boutique for sustainable fashion enthusiasts.
Wasteland
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures at Wasteland in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter.
Viking Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic Viking keepsakes and Danish-designed gifts at Viking Souvenirs, perfectly placed on Copenhagen’s historic shopping street for a unique Nordic shopping adventure.
Magasin du Nord
0.5 km
Experience Danish elegance, international fashion, and gourmet food in Copenhagen’s historic Magasin du Nord—an iconic department store blending tradition and style since 1894.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.5 km
Discover authentic Danish gifts, charming souvenirs, and practical luggage essentials at this longstanding shop on bustling Østergade in the heart of Copenhagen.
TorvehallerneKBH
0.6 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Strøm
0.1 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
Luke's Bar
0.1 km
Luke’s Bar is a beloved vintage-inspired haunt in Copenhagen’s Indre By, celebrated for creative cocktails, retro ambience, and welcoming, quirky bartenders.
Bar'Vin
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
The Dubliner
0.2 km
Classic Irish pub atmosphere with live music, hearty food, sports broadcasts, and local camaraderie on lively Amagertorv square in central Copenhagen.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Charlie's Bar
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Godt Øl
0.3 km
Discover a welcoming cellar sanctuary for craft beer enthusiasts in Copenhagen, offering expertly curated Danish and international selections in a cozy, sociable atmosphere.
Ruby
0.3 km
Ruby is Copenhagen’s iconic cocktail bar, where historic townhouse charm meets world-class mixology in a uniquely atmospheric setting near the city’s heart.
No Stress Bar
0.3 km
Relaxed cocktail bar in central Copenhagen with creative drinks, cozy ambiance, and a blend of retro and modern Danish design—perfect for a unique evening out.
K-Bar
0.4 km
Leading Copenhagen’s cocktail revolution, K-Bar blends innovative mixology, Scandinavian style, and canal-side ambiance for an unforgettable urban bar experience.
1105
0.4 km
Award-winning cocktail bar in central Copenhagen offering inventive signature drinks, a stylish Nordic-chic atmosphere, and a top-tier nightlife experience.
Floss Bar
0.4 km
Historic LGBTQ+ bar in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter blending warm hospitality, affordable drinks, and eclectic locals in a welcoming, community-driven setting.
Musen & Elefanten
0.5 km
Discover true Danish hygge and vintage bar culture at Musen & Elefanten, a local favorite nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s vibrant Latin Quarter.
