Stork Fountain
Bronze storks frozen mid-flight at Copenhagen's historic heart, where royalty, commerce, and tradition dance together.
The Stork Fountain stands at the heart of Amagertorv, Copenhagen's second-oldest square and a vibrant hub of commerce and culture. This iconic bronze sculpture, created in 1894 as a wedding gift to Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Louise, depicts three graceful storks poised for flight. Surrounded by historic architecture, high-end boutiques, and the energy of Strøget—Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street—the fountain remains a beloved gathering point where newly graduated midwives celebrate with a traditional dance each year.
A brief summary to Stork Fountain
- Amagertorv 6, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1160, DK
- +4570222442
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit at different times of day to experience the square's shifting character—daytime reveals architectural details and shopping vitality, while evening creates an enchanting, quieter atmosphere perfect for photography.
- Time your visit to coincide with local events or festivals if possible; Amagertorv regularly hosts open-air performances and cultural gatherings that offer deeper insight into Danish traditions.
- Explore the surrounding historic buildings and boutiques, including the Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Manufactory and Georg Jensen, to appreciate Denmark's design heritage.
- Use the square as a central navigation point on Strøget; most major Copenhagen attractions are within 30–45 minutes' walk from this location.
- If visiting in early summer, watch for newly graduated midwives celebrating the traditional dance around the fountain—a uniquely Danish ritual dating back to 1950.
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 & Walking
Take the Copenhagen Metro (Lines M1 or M2) to Nørreport Station, approximately 8 minutes from the airport. Exit and walk south through the city center along Strøget pedestrian street for about 10 minutes to reach Amagertorv. The route is flat, well-marked, and passes through the heart of Copenhagen's shopping district. No ticket required once you reach the pedestrian area.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of Copenhagen's many bike-sharing stations (Bycyklen or similar services cost approximately 30–80 DKK per trip). Cycle toward the city center and follow signs for Strøget or the inner city. Journey time is 15–25 minutes depending on starting location. Amagertorv has bike parking facilities nearby. This is the most popular local transport method.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Use a taxi or rideshare app (Uber, Bolt, or local Danish services) to reach Amagertorv directly. Expect fares of 80–150 DKK from central locations, with journey times of 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Note that central Copenhagen has limited car access; your driver will drop you at the nearest permitted point, typically a 2–3 minute walk away.
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Walking from Rådhuspladsen
If already in central Copenhagen, walk from Rådhuspladsen (Town Hall Square) northeast along Nygade, which becomes Vimmelskaftet, then Amagertorv. The walk takes approximately 8–10 minutes and is entirely on pedestrian streets lined with shops and historic buildings. This route is flat and accessible year-round.
Stork Fountain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Stork Fountain
A Medieval Marketplace Transformed
Amagertorv emerged in the Middle Ages as Copenhagen's vital commercial heart, though its name evolved with its purpose. Originally known as Fiskertorv (Fish Market) due to the concentration of fish merchants, the square was officially renamed Amagertorv in 1472 to reflect the farmers from the nearby island of Amager who sailed daily across the water to sell their produce. In 1684, Copenhagen's city council formalized the square's importance by decreeing that all fresh produce trading must occur within its boundaries, establishing Amagertorv as the premier marketplace in the city. Farmers arrived with horse-drawn carts laden with vegetables, dairy, and other goods, creating a bustling, crowded atmosphere that defined daily life for centuries.Rebuilding After Fire and Redesign
The square's character shifted dramatically following two devastating fires, particularly the second in 1795, which caused severe damage to surrounding buildings. Rather than simply restoring what was lost, city planners seized the opportunity to redesign and expand the square. The curved street layout that characterizes Amagertorv today was intentionally engineered to allow fire trucks to navigate corners more swiftly—a practical consideration disguised as aesthetic refinement. As Copenhagen's commercial center gradually shifted, Amagertorv evolved from a pure farmers' market into a major traffic artery connecting different parts of the city, though its historical identity as a marketplace never entirely faded.The Iconic Stork Fountain and Royal Commemoration
In 1894, the square received its most recognizable landmark when the Stork Fountain was unveiled as a silver wedding anniversary gift to Crown Prince Frederik (later King Frederik VIII) and Crown Princess Louise. Designed by sculptor Edvard Petersen and cast by Vilhelm Bissen, the fountain depicts three storks in dynamic poses, appearing ready to take flight. The composition conveys movement and grace, while frogs positioned around the pedestal spout water in complementary jets. The stork itself carries deep symbolic meaning in Danish culture, traditionally representing happiness, family devotion, faithfulness, and fertility—qualities the royal couple embodied. The fountain quickly became beloved by both residents and visitors, transforming into an enduring symbol of Copenhagen itself.Controversy, Vandalism, and the Bird Cage Era
The fountain's early years were marked by unexpected turmoil. In the late 19th century, the square became a flashpoint for social unrest, with groups literally rioting around the fountain and engaging in persistent vandalism. The water was dyed red, turned black, and on one memorable occasion filled with live fish—pranks that reflected deeper tensions in the city. The situation escalated to such a degree that authorities erected a giant lattice fence around the fountain in an attempt to control the chaos. The protective barrier became the subject of ridicule, with Copenhageners joking that their city now housed the world's largest bird cage. Over time, the vandalism subsided and the fence was removed, allowing the fountain to reclaim its dignity and become the cherished landmark it remains today.Modern Hub of Commerce and Culture
Today, Amagertorv functions as one of Copenhagen's most dynamic public spaces, seamlessly blending history with contemporary vitality. The square sits directly on Strøget, Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street at approximately 1.1 kilometers, making it a natural convergence point for both shoppers and sightseers. Surrounding the fountain are prestigious retailers including the Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Manufactory's flagship store and the renowned Danish design house Georg Jensen, establishments that showcase Denmark's continued excellence in craftsmanship and design. Historic buildings like Højbrohus frame the square, their facades telling stories of centuries past.A Living Tradition and Gathering Place
Beyond its commercial and architectural significance, Amagertorv pulses with cultural energy throughout the year. Since 1950, a cherished tradition has seen newly graduated midwives dance around the fountain in celebration—a custom that connects the square to themes of new life, hope, and community. The square regularly hosts open-air performances, public exhibitions, and seasonal events that draw locals and tourists alike. Whether visited in bright daylight when architectural details shine clearly, or at night when ambient lighting creates an enchanting atmosphere, Amagertorv remains the true heart of Copenhagen's inner city, a place where medieval history, royal legacy, and modern urban life converge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Højbro
0.1 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.
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.
Holmens Bro
0.3 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.
Jorcks Passage
0.3 km
Historic 1890s covered arcade where telephone wires once connected a nation, now a charming shopping passage in Copenhagen's heart.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.4 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.
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.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
0.4 km
Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.5 km
A hidden gem where medieval water engineering meets early 20th-century artistry in Copenhagen's charming Old Town.
Indre By
0.5 km
Medieval streets, royal palaces, and European shopping converge in Copenhagen's historic heart.
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.
Gammeltorv
0.5 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.
Church of Our Lady
0.5 km
Denmark's neoclassical cathedral, crowned with Thorvaldsen's masterpiece sculptures and centuries of royal ceremony.
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.
Frederiksholms Kanal
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Frederiksholms Kanal, Copenhagen's picturesque canal, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
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.
Bishop Absalon
0.1 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.
Amagertorv
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s historic marketplace turned elegant pedestrian square, where storks, cobblestones and centuries‑old facades meet modern design and city life.
Segway Tours Copenhagen
0.1 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
0.1 km
Medieval church transformed into a beacon of experimental contemporary art in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Strøget
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s longest pedestrian promenade, Strøget blends historic streets, designer boutiques and animated street life into one continuous urban stroll.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.1 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.
Ved Stranden
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s famous waterfront promenade blending royal history, iconic monuments, and scenic strolls along the city’s vibrant harborside.
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.
Gammel Strand
0.2 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.
Balderdash
0.2 km
Strikingly designed by Jean Nouvel, Copenhagen’s DR Koncerthuset offers world-class acoustics and a dynamic program of classical, jazz, and international concerts.
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.
Pub Crawl Copenhagen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modernity at Sankt Hans Torv, Nørrebro's lively public square.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Maven
0.1 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 Tight
0.2 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.
King Hans Cellar
0.3 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
0.3 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.
Wining and Dining
0.3 km
French-inspired fine dining with exceptional wines in Copenhagen's historic heart
Københavner Cafeen
0.3 km
Traditional Danish comfort food and smørrebrød served in a cozy, low-lit cellar restaurant on a historic Copenhagen side street steeped in hygge.
l’Alsace
0.3 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
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.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.3 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.
Det Lille Apotek
0.4 km
Copenhagen’s oldest restaurant, where candlelit wooden rooms, traditional Danish dishes and centuries of stories create a warm slice of true Danish hygge.
Marchal
0.4 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
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.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.4 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.0 km
Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
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.
Danish Souvenirs & Luggages
0.1 km
Central Strøget gift shop combining classic Danish souvenirs with practical luggage and bags, perfectly placed for a quick browse between Old Town sights.
Danish Souvenirs
0.1 km
Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
Hygge Original
0.1 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.
ILLUM
0.1 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
& Other Stories
0.2 km
Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Akimbo
0.2 km
A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
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.
Audrey Vintage
0.2 km
Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
Magasin du Nord
0.3 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.
Norse Projects
0.3 km
Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
0.3 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Studio Arhoj
0.3 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
0.0 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.
K-Bar
0.1 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
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.
Charlie's Bar
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
1105
0.3 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
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.
Strøm
0.3 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
The Jane
0.3 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.
Ruby
0.3 km
An unmarked 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade hides Ruby, a quietly glamorous cocktail institution where inventive drinks meet candlelit canal-side charm.
Bæst Cocktailbar
0.3 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.
Balthazar
0.3 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.
Luke's Bar
0.3 km
Copenhagen's premier luxury dive bar where fine whisky meets authentic rock and metal culture.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Lusso
0.3 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.
Chateau Motel
0.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mini Bar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Hive
0.4 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Rumors
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
0.5 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
0.5 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
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.
Dorsia
0.6 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Arch
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Club Mambo
0.6 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Mirage
0.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Cosy Bar
0.7 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
0.8 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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
