Holmens Bro
An ornamental 19th-century iron bridge with iconic lion-head keystones, connecting Copenhagen's city center to the royal island of Slotsholmen.
Holmens Bro is a striking wrought-iron bridge spanning Copenhagen's inner harbor, connecting Højbro Square to Slotsholmen. Built in 1878 by renowned Danish architect Vilhelm Dahlerup, this ornamental bridge features distinctive lion-head keystones and gold-and-grey coloring that make it one of the city's most visually distinctive crossings. The bridge serves as both a functional transport link and a historical landmark reflecting late 19th-century Danish architectural ambition.
A brief summary to Holmens Bro
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during golden hour—late afternoon or early evening—when the bridge's gold and grey coloring is illuminated beautifully and reflections dance across the water below.
- View the bridge from the water by taking a canal tour; this perspective reveals the full architectural elegance of the arched span and ornamental details that are less visible from street level.
- Examine the lion-head keystone at the center of the main span—a distinctive decorative element that exemplifies late 19th-century craftsmanship and serves as the bridge's signature feature.
- Combine a bridge visit with exploration of nearby Slotsholmen, where Christiansborg Palace, Marmorbroen, and other historic sites create a comprehensive royal Copenhagen experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Nyhavn
From Nyhavn, walk southwest along Nyhavnsbroen and continue through the city center streets toward Højbro Square. The walk takes approximately 8–12 minutes depending on your pace and route. The area is flat and pedestrian-friendly with clear signage. No fees or restrictions apply.
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Cycling from Central Copenhagen
Copenhagen's extensive cycle network makes reaching Holmens Bro straightforward by bike. From most central locations, allow 5–10 minutes of cycling time. Bike lanes are well-marked throughout the city center. Bicycle rentals are widely available at numerous stations throughout Copenhagen, typically costing 30–80 DKK per day depending on the rental service.
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Public Transport via Metro or Bus
Take the Copenhagen Metro (Lines M1 or M2) to Kongens Nytorv station, or use bus routes serving the city center. From the station, walk approximately 5–8 minutes to reach the bridge. A single journey ticket costs around 24 DKK, or purchase a 24-hour ticket for 80 DKK for unlimited travel.
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Canal Tour Boat Access
Several canal tour operators offer routes that pass directly under Holmens Bro, providing an excellent perspective of the bridge's architecture from the water. Tours typically depart from Nyhavn or other central harbors and cost 60–120 DKK per person, with departures every 30–60 minutes during peak season.
Holmens Bro location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Holmens Bro
A Monument to Danish Architectural Ambition
Holmens Bro stands as one of Copenhagen's most ornamental bridges, completed in 1878 under the design of architect Vilhelm Dahlerup. The bridge spans the canal connecting the inner harbor between Højbro Square and Slotsholmen, serving as a vital crossing point for pedestrians, cyclists, and traffic. Its distinctive wrought-iron construction, combined with gold and grey coloring, makes it immediately recognizable to anyone passing over or beneath it. The bridge's most striking feature is its lion-head keystone at the center of the main span, a decorative element that exemplifies the craftsmanship and artistic vision of the late 19th century.Engineering and Design Excellence
The bridge represents a closed spandrel arch design, a structural approach that was both aesthetically pleasing and engineerally sound for the period. Dahlerup's design reflects the architectural sensibilities of the late 1800s, when Copenhagen was establishing itself as a modern European capital. The ornamental railings and decorative detailing showcase the level of attention given to public infrastructure during this era. Rather than being merely functional, the bridge was conceived as a statement piece—a structure that would enhance the cityscape while serving the practical needs of a growing urban population.A Gateway to Royal Copenhagen
Located at the threshold of Slotsholmen, the island that houses Christiansborg Palace and other significant royal and governmental buildings, Holmens Bro serves as a symbolic gateway to the heart of Danish power and culture. The bridge's position makes it an essential link between the bustling city center and the historic institutions on the island. Visitors crossing the bridge experience a transition from the everyday urban environment to the more formal, ceremonial spaces beyond. The surrounding area, with its mix of historic buildings and waterfront views, reinforces the bridge's importance as both a practical crossing and a cultural landmark.Visual Prominence and Waterfront Character
From the water below, Holmens Bro presents an impressive silhouette, with its arched span and ornamental details creating a picturesque frame for canal views. The bridge is particularly striking when viewed from boats navigating Copenhagen's inner harbor, where its gold and grey coloring stands out against the surrounding architecture. The lion-head keystone, visible from multiple angles, has become an iconic detail recognized by locals and visitors alike. The bridge's design demonstrates how 19th-century engineers and architects understood the importance of creating structures that were beautiful as well as functional.Integration with Copenhagen's Bridge Heritage
Holmens Bro exists within a rich context of Copenhagen's bridge infrastructure, which tells the story of the city's development from medieval times through the modern era. While newer bridges like Cirkelbroen and the 2016 cycle bridge have added contemporary design elements to the cityscape, Holmens Bro remains a testament to an earlier period of architectural confidence and ornamentation. The bridge connects to other significant structures like Højbro and Marmorbroen, creating a network of crossings that collectively represent different eras of Copenhagen's architectural history. Together, these bridges form a narrative of how the city has continuously evolved while maintaining respect for its heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Holmens Bro
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Frederik VII
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The Danish Parliament
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Højbro
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Equestrian statue of Christian IX
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C.F. Tietgens Hus
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Magstræde
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Kongens Nytorv
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The Stable Boy's House
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Circle Bridge
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Havnegade Promenaden
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Danish Architecture Centre
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Christianshavn
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Gråbrødretorv
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Unmissable attractions to see
Christiansborg Palace
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Børsen
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Stromma Canal Tours
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Ved Stranden
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Agnete and the Merman Statue
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Segway Tours Copenhagen
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Bishop Absalon
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Garden of the Royal Library
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Nikolaj Art Gallery
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Højbro Plads
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Søren Aabye Kierkegaard by Louis Hasselriis
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Højbro Pl.
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Slotsholmen
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A compact canal island where medieval fortresses, royal palaces and modern democracy meet at the very heart of Copenhagen’s harbour.
Danish Jewish Museum
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Thorvaldsens Museum
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Maven
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King Hans Cellar
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Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
Marv & Ben
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Llama
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Restaurant 1733
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Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
à terre
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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.
Restaurant Tight
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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.
Kanal-Caféen
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No. 2
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l’Alsace
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Marchal
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Københavner Cafeen
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Restaurant Kronborg
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Frank
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Restaurant Puk
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Magasin du Nord
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Urban Outfitters
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Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
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Danish Souvenirs & Luggages
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ILLUM
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ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Hygge Original
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Magnolias
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Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
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Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Audrey Vintage
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Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
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Akimbo
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Viking Souvenirs
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Norse Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
K-Bar
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The Bird and The Churchkey
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The Dubliner
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Ruby
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TATA Cocktail Bar
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Lord Nelson Bar
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Godt Øl
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Brønnum
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1105
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Balthazar
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Zefside
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Balderdash
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Charlie's Bar
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Aloë Cocktail Bar
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The Moose
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
