Amagertorv
Medieval marketplace turned modern pedestrian heart, where Copenhagen's past and present converge around an iconic fountain.
Amagertorv is Copenhagen's most central public square and the vibrant heart of the Strøget pedestrian zone. Named after medieval Amager farmers who sold produce here, this historic triangular square has anchored Copenhagen's commercial and social life for nearly 1,000 years. Today it's dominated by the iconic Stork Fountain and surrounded by prestigious shops, historic Renaissance buildings, and constant street entertainment, making it an essential stop on any Copenhagen visit.
A brief summary to Amagertorv
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 5 PM) to experience Amagertorv with fewer crowds and better light for photography, especially around the Stork Fountain.
- Explore the historic buildings surrounding the square: the 1616 Mathias Hansen House with its Dutch Renaissance architecture and dragon-headed copper drainpipes is particularly photogenic from the square's center.
- Street performers regularly perform at Amagertorv; allow time to watch acrobats, magicians, or musicians, and consider supporting them with a small donation.
- Use Amagertorv as a navigation hub: Strøget extends northwest to Kongens Nytorv (luxury shopping) and southeast to City Hall Square (budget chains); Højbro Bridge leads to Christiansborg Palace and Christianshavn.
- Visit the Royal Copenhagen flagship store (No. 6) to see the historic building's interior and browse Danish porcelain, or explore Illums Bolighus for Scandinavian design and home furnishings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
Copenhagen Metro Line M1 or M2 to Nørreport Station, approximately 8 minutes travel time from the airport. From Nørreport, walk northwest along Købmagergade for 5 minutes to reach Amagertorv. Tickets cost approximately 36 DKK for a single journey within central Copenhagen.
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Train
S-train or regional train to Nørreport Station (the busiest railway station in Denmark), located directly north of Amagertorv. Journey time from Copenhagen Airport is approximately 13 minutes. From the station, follow Købmagergade south for 5 minutes to the square. Single ticket approximately 36 DKK.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen's extensive cycle network connects directly to Amagertorv via multiple routes. Bike rental is available throughout the city (approximately 80–100 DKK per day). The square is car-free and fully accessible by bicycle; secure parking is available on surrounding streets.
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Walking
From Copenhagen Central Station (Hovedbanegården), walk northeast through the city center via Strøget's western section for approximately 10–12 minutes. The route is flat, well-signposted, and passes through the pedestrian shopping zone. From Kongens Nytorv, walk southwest along Strøget for approximately 8 minutes.
Amagertorv location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Amagertorv
A Marketplace Through the Ages
Amagertorv emerged in the Middle Ages as Copenhagen's primary commercial crossroads, taking its name from the farmers of nearby Amager who sailed into the city daily to sell their produce. By 1449, it was formally recognized as the Fishmonger's Market, and by 1472, the name Amagertorv was officially established. The square's triangular layout, visible in maps dating to 1377, remains unchanged to this day—a testament to its enduring urban design. In 1684, Copenhagen's authorities decreed that all fresh produce trading must occur within Amagertorv, cementing its status as the city's premier marketplace. The square bustled with vendors selling meat, cheese, eggs, and vegetables, transforming it into one of Northern Europe's most vital commercial hubs.Festivals, Tournaments, and Royal Celebrations
Beyond commerce, Amagertorv served as a stage for civic pageantry. During the 16th and 17th centuries, the square hosted elaborate festivals and chivalrous tournaments, including jousting competitions and mock battles that drew crowds and nobility alike. These events reinforced Amagertorv's role as Copenhagen's social center, a place where the city's identity was performed and celebrated. The square's significance extended to hospitality: from 1656, the city's leading inn operated here, welcoming travelers and merchants from across Scandinavia and beyond.Resilience Through Fire and Transformation
The Copenhagen Fire of 1795 devastated much of the square, destroying most of its buildings and forcing a complete redesign. From this catastrophe emerged a modernized Amagertorv, with the adjoining Højbro Plads established to improve circulation and safety. The fire's aftermath also introduced architectural innovations—the square's curved corners were deliberately designed to allow fire trucks to navigate more efficiently, blending practical necessity with urban planning. By 1868, as the city expanded, market activities relocated to Christianshavn, yet Amagertorv retained its commercial vitality through shops and department stores.The Stork Fountain and Architectural Heritage
In 1894, the Stork Fountain was unveiled as a gift celebrating Crown Prince Frederik's (later Frederik VIII) silver wedding anniversary with Crown Princess Louise. This bronze masterpiece, with its graceful storks appearing poised for flight, became the square's defining symbol and an enduring gathering point for locals and visitors. The fountain's poetic design captures movement and continuity, embodying Copenhagen's blend of tradition and modernity. Surrounding the fountain stand architectural treasures spanning centuries: the 1616 Mathias Hansen House at No. 6, a Dutch Renaissance gem with decorative dragon-headed copper drainpipes, now houses the Royal Copenhagen flagship store; the 17th-century Højbrohus exemplifies Renaissance elegance; and the 1907–1908 Løveapoteket building, designed by Victor Nyebøllle and Chr. Brandstrup, marks the site of Copenhagen's first pharmacy, which operated from 1620 to 1969.The Modern Pedestrian Heart
In 1962, Amagertorv was closed to vehicular traffic with the establishment of the Strøget pedestrian zone, transforming it into a car-free haven. Today, the square forms the vital junction where Strøget's main shopping streets diverge, connecting City Hall Square to Kongens Nytorv across 1.1 kilometers of Europe's longest pedestrian street. The Illum department store has anchored the corner of Strøget and Købmagergade since the 1890s, while the Illum Furniture Store showcases Danish and Scandinavian design. Street performers—acrobats, magicians, and musicians—create a constant atmosphere of entertainment and spontaneity, making Amagertorv a living theater of urban culture.A Living Crossroads of Commerce and Culture
Amagertorv remains Copenhagen's most central square, a place where history is literally underfoot on its ancient cobblestones. The square's triangular geometry, unchanged for 650 years, creates natural gathering spaces where thousands of shoppers, tourists, and locals converge daily. From this vantage point, visitors can see across the canal to Christiansborg Palace, seat of the Danish Parliament, anchoring Amagertorv within Copenhagen's political and cultural geography. The square pulses with the energy of contemporary retail—from luxury flagships like Louis Vuitton and Hermès to accessible high-street chains—while its historic buildings whisper stories of medieval markets, royal celebrations, and urban resilience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Højbro
0.2 km
A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
Varehuset Messen
0.2 km
A historic 1895 department store turned business college, crowned by Hermes and layered with centuries of mercantile and intellectual history on Købmagergade.
Jorcks Passage
0.2 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Frederik VII
0.3 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
0.3 km
A quiet yet powerful royal monument in Christiansborg’s riding ground, uniting a pivotal Danish king with the groundbreaking sculptor who cast him in bronze.
Holmens Bro
0.4 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.
The Danish Parliament
0.4 km
Where copper spires, royal salons and granite façades frame the working heart of Danish democracy on Copenhagen’s historic Island of Power.
Church of Holmen
0.4 km
A Renaissance gem transformed from anchor forge to naval sanctuary, where maritime heritage and royal history converge.
Frederiksholms Kanal
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Frederiksholms Kanal, Copenhagen's picturesque canal, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural exploration.
Kultorvet
0.5 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.
Søren Aabye Kierkegaard by Louis Hasselriis
0.5 km
Discover Nordic art, culture, and cuisine from Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands at North Atlantic House, a historic waterfront warehouse in Copenhagen.
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.
National Museum of Denmark
0.5 km
Explore Denmark's rich history and cultural heritage at the National Museum in Copenhagen, home to Viking treasures, Bronze Age relics, and captivating exhibits for all ages.
Børsen
0.5 km
Copenhagen's legendary Dragon Spire and Dutch Renaissance masterpiece—a 400-year-old trading hub bearing witness to centuries of Danish commerce.
The War Museum
0.5 km
Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
Unmissable attractions to see
Strøget
0.0 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Læderstræde
0.1 km
A cosy Old Town side street where rebuilt 18th‑century townhouses, Danish design boutiques and laid‑back cafés create a calm, human‑scaled alternative to busy Strøget.
Stork Fountain
0.1 km
Bask in the serene Baltic ambiance of Rødvig Beach on South Zealand—an inviting stretch of sand with sweeping views of Stevns Klint and local Danish charm.
Gammel Strand
0.1 km
A historic Copenhagen harbourfront where Viking-age roots, colourful 18th‑century facades and a contemporary art centre meet beside the city’s central canal.
Højbro Plads
0.1 km
A historic canal in central Copenhagen, Frederiksholms Kanal blends royal heritage, elegant facades, and tranquil waterways in the heart of the Danish capital.
Balderdash
0.1 km
Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
Højbro Pl.
0.1 km
Open, airy and steeped in history, Højbro Plads is Copenhagen’s neoclassical city living room between canal, palace views and busy pedestrian streets.
Bishop Absalon
0.2 km
Denmark’s national gallery showcases Nordic and international masterpieces in stunning, light-filled halls—SMK is a must-visit for art lovers in Copenhagen.
Gråbrødretorv
0.2 km
Mythic grandeur meets urban tranquility at Copenhagen’s spectacular Gefion Fountain, a must-see bronze sculpture and water feature rooted in Norse legend.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.2 km
A submerged family of bronze beneath Højbro Bridge brings an old Danish ballad of love, faith and abandonment to life in the heart of historic Copenhagen.
Stromma Canal Tours
0.2 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
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s famous waterfront promenade blending royal history, iconic monuments, and scenic strolls along the city’s vibrant harborside.
Segway Tours Copenhagen
0.2 km
Strikingly modern, immersive, and acoustically exceptional, DR Koncerthuset is Copenhagen's world-renowned concert hall and a must-visit for music and architecture lovers.
Nikolaj Art Gallery
0.2 km
Medieval church transformed into a beacon of experimental contemporary art in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.2 km
Denmark’s first public art museum, Thorvaldsens Museum blends neoclassical sculpture, vivid architecture, and tranquil courtyards into one immersive urban sanctuary.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Tight
0.1 km
Cozy multi-level townhouse restaurant in Copenhagen’s Old Town serving Nordic cuisine with a sunny southern twist, generous portions and a warm, brick-and-beam atmosphere.
Restaurant Sole D’Italia - København
0.2 km
Classic stone-oven pizzas and familiar Italian favourites served on one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric squares in the heart of the old town.
Marv & Ben
0.2 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
Københavner Cafeen
0.2 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
Wining and Dining
0.2 km
French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Restaurant Maven
0.2 km
Distinctive Scandinavian dining in the soaring nave of a former church, Restaurant Maven offers inventive cuisine and fine wine in Copenhagen's historic Indre By.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.2 km
Warm, candlelit hygge in Copenhagen’s old town, where classic Danish smørrebrød, hearty lunches and aquavit bring traditional flavors to a cosy side-street dining room.
Restaurant 1733
0.3 km
Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
Det Lille Apotek
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Restaurant Puk
0.4 km
Historic Danish restaurant in Indre By, Copenhagen, serving classic smørrebrød and comfort dishes in a centuries-old setting with authentic local atmosphere.
l’Alsace
0.4 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
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.
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.
Frank
0.5 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.
Marchal
0.5 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hygge Original
0.0 km
A cozy Danish design shop on Amagertorv, offering hygge-inspired clothing, textiles and gifts in a calm, Scandinavian setting amid Copenhagen’s busiest streets.
Danish Souvenirs & Luggages
0.0 km
Central Strøget gift shop combining classic Danish souvenirs with practical luggage and bags, perfectly placed for a quick browse between Old Town sights.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.1 km
Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
& Other Stories
0.1 km
Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Akimbo
0.1 km
A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
Magnolias
0.1 km
A compact, upscale secondhand boutique on Købmagergade, Magnolias blends Copenhagen chic with curated pre-loved designer fashion in the city’s historic shopping heart.
Audrey Vintage
0.1 km
Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
Danish Souvenirs
0.2 km
Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
ILLUM
0.2 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Norse Store
0.2 km
Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
Duck Haven
0.2 km
A tiny, colourful shop in Copenhagen’s old town where hundreds of themed rubber ducks turn souvenir hunting into a playful, photo‑worthy detour.
Danish Art & Christmas Shop
0.2 km
A cosy, year‑round Christmas haven in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, filled with Danish‑designed ornaments, paper art and festive hygge moments.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.2 km
Step off bustling Vimmelskaftet into a nostalgic world of Danish Christmas sparkle, romantic décor and gift-worthy treasures at Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
Studio Arhoj
0.2 km
A working Copenhagen design studio where shelves of colorful ceramics and glass meet the sights, sounds and warmth of craft being made in real time.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dubliner
0.1 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.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
K-Bar
0.2 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
The Jane
0.2 km
Mad Men–style speakeasy meets late-night dance floor in a warren of hidden rooms, leather sofas and cocktail-fuelled energy beneath central Copenhagen.
Strøm
0.2 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.2 km
Intimate basement cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pairing creative drinks with warm lighting, easygoing music and a sociable late-night city-centre vibe.
Luke's Bar
0.2 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
Ruby
0.2 km
An unmarked 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade hides Ruby, a quietly glamorous cocktail institution where inventive drinks meet candlelit canal-side charm.
Aloë Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Award-winning Cuban cocktails and street art vibes in Copenhagen's vibrant Inner City.
Godt Øl
0.2 km
Cosy basement craft beer bar in Copenhagen’s old town, pouring 12 rotating taps in a low-key, conversation-friendly setting from mid-afternoon until late night.
Bar'Vin
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
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.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The Moose
0.3 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Chateau Motel
0.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
The Zoo
0.3 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Rumors
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
0.4 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
0.4 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lusso
0.4 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
La Terraza
0.5 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Mini Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Dorsia
0.5 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Arch
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Club Mambo
0.5 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Mirage
0.5 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Cosy Bar
0.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
