Church of Holmen (Holmens Kirke)
Once an anchor forge, now a serene Renaissance church of sailors, heroes and royalty, Holmens Kirke offers a rare intact interior beside Copenhagen’s canals.
Tucked beside a canal in Copenhagen’s historic center, the Church of Holmen is a rare, fully preserved Renaissance church with deep ties to Denmark’s naval and royal history. Once an anchor forge, it became a sailors’ church under King Christian IV and later hosted royal christenings and the 1967 wedding of Queen Margrethe II. Inside, whitewashed walls, a barrel-vaulted ceiling, oak carvings, model ships and naval tombs create a serene, maritime-flavored sanctuary just steps from the bustle of Indre By.
A brief summary to Church of Holmen
- Holmens Kanal 21, Indre By, Indre By, 1060, DK
- +4533136178
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan at least 30–45 minutes inside to appreciate the carvings, model ships and naval monuments rather than just a quick look from the entrance.
- Check service times in advance if you wish to attend worship or avoid arriving during ceremonies, when sightseeing access may be limited.
- Spend a few moments in the side chapels and near the crypt entrances where naval heroes and notable figures are commemorated.
- Bring a camera with good low-light capability; flash is often discouraged, and the dim interior rewards careful, steady shots.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Metro
From central Copenhagen, the most convenient option is the city metro. The stations Kongens Nytorv and Gammel Strand are both within about 5–10 minutes’ walk of Holmens Kirke, and are served frequently by several lines throughout the day. Typical travel times from inner districts are 5–15 minutes, with standard single tickets usually costing around 20–30 DKK depending on zones. All stations and trains are step-free, making this the easiest option for most visitors.
-
Bus
Several city bus routes serve the Indre By area around Holmens Kanal, with stops a short walk from the church. Journeys from nearby neighborhoods typically take 10–25 minutes, depending on traffic and starting point. Standard bus tickets are integrated with the metro system and usually cost about 20–30 DKK for central zones. Buses run frequently during the day, though services can be less frequent late in the evening and on weekends.
-
Bicycle
Copenhagen’s extensive cycle lanes make reaching the Church of Holmen by bike straightforward from most central districts in 10–20 minutes. The terrain is flat and road surfaces are generally good. Public bike-share schemes and many hotels offer rentals, with typical costs ranging from about 75–150 DKK per day. Bicycle parking is available on nearby streets, though you should always lock your bike securely and avoid blocking church entrances.
-
Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and licensed rideshare services can drop you near Holmens Kanal in front of the church. From central city hotels, journeys usually take 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares in the inner city commonly range from around 80–180 DKK, increasing at peak times or late at night. Vehicle access in the area is generally good, but brief delays are possible during rush hour or large public events.
Church of Holmen location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Hot Weather
Discover more about Church of Holmen
From Anchor Forge to Royal Parish Church
Holmens Kirke began life far from the world of altarpieces and hymnals. In the 1560s it was built as an anchor smithy serving the king’s naval dockyards on what was then the island of Holmen, just off medieval Copenhagen. When King Christian IV later developed housing for shipyard workers nearby, the forge was transformed into a church in 1619 to serve the growing naval community. The conversion preserved the long, low workshop footprint, giving the church an unusually elongated profile along the canal. Only a few decades later, it was expanded into a cruciform plan under architect Leonhard Blasius, with Christian IV personally influencing the design. That blend of pragmatic industrial origins and royal ambition still defines the church’s character today.Renaissance Architecture that Escaped the Flames
The Church of Holmen is considered one of Copenhagen’s oldest and finest surviving examples of Renaissance architecture. Built of brick and crowned with a modest tower and spire, it has a distinctly Northern, almost Dutch-influenced profile rather than an ornate Baroque silhouette. Remarkably, Holmens Kirke escaped the devastating city fires of the 18th century that destroyed so many older buildings. As a result, it retains a near-intact 17th‑century interior: whitewashed walls, a barrel-vaulted ceiling with delicate stucco, wooden galleries and tall arched windows that bathe the nave in a clear, soft light. Where other churches feel layered with later renovations, this one offers an unusually coherent Renaissance ensemble.A Maritime Soul in Wood, Stone and Metal
Step inside and the church’s naval roots are unmistakable. From the ceiling hang finely crafted model ships, votive offerings that commemorate Denmark’s seafaring traditions and the Royal Danish Navy. They float above the pews like miniature fleets, a reminder that this was once the spiritual home of sailors and officers. Along the walls, richly carved oak dominates. The towering pulpit from the 1660s, by sculptor Abel Schrøder, is one of Copenhagen’s oldest and most intricate, climbing from floor to ceiling with biblical scenes, royal monograms and gilded crowns. The high altar, likewise in dark oak, anchors the east end with dense carving that contrasts beautifully with the pale plaster around it.Naval Heroes and Royal Ceremonies
Beneath and beside the church lie tombs and sarcophagi of notable figures from Denmark’s maritime past. Two of the most famous are the naval heroes Niels Juel and Tordenskjold, whose grand resting places highlight the church’s role as a pantheon for seafaring elites. Their presence gives the aisles and crypt a quietly monumental, almost museum-like quality. Holmens Kirke is also woven into Denmark’s royal story. It has hosted significant ceremonies, including christenings of royal children and the 1967 wedding of the then Crown Princess Margrethe to Henri de Laborde de Monpezat. Standing in the relatively small nave, it is striking to imagine such state occasions unfolding in this intimate, human-scaled space.A Quiet Sanctuary in the Heart of the City
Despite its central location on Holmens Kanal, close to financial institutions and major sights, the church often feels like a refuge from urban noise. The canal outside, the mellow brick and copper, and the gentle creak of wooden floors combine to create an atmosphere of calm. Visitors typically spend time simply sitting in a pew, tracing details of the carvings, or walking slowly around the nave and side chapels to find inscriptions, naval emblems and subtle references to the name of God on plaques and fittings. Between occasional services, concerts and daily opening hours, Holmens Kirke remains a working parish church first and a historic landmark second, offering a quiet, contemplative counterpoint to Copenhagen’s busy streets.Experiencing Holmens Kirke Today
Today, access is generally free during opening hours, making it an easy and rewarding detour while exploring Indre By. A contemporary annex discreetly tucked behind the historic structure provides modern facilities without disturbing the overall historic impression. The main interior, though, has changed little in centuries. Whether you come with a passion for naval history, an eye for Renaissance detail or simply a desire for a peaceful pause, the Church of Holmen rewards an unhurried visit. Look up to the ships, down to the tombstones beneath your feet, and around to the royal symbols that thread past and present together in this compact but richly layered space.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Holmens Bro
0.1 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.
Frederik VII
0.1 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
The Danish Parliament
0.2 km
Where copper spires, royal salons and granite façades frame the working heart of Danish democracy on Copenhagen’s historic Island of Power.
C.F. Tietgens Hus
0.2 km
A Neoclassical monument to Danish banking heritage and industrial vision, built for one of history's most influential entrepreneurs.
Højbro
0.3 km
A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
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.
Havnegade Promenaden
0.4 km
Copenhagen's revitalized waterfront promenade blending historic charm with playful modern recreation.
Kongens Nytorv
0.4 km
Historic observatory in Aarhus combining hands-on stargazing, interactive astronomy exhibits, and tranquil parkland with panoramic city views.
Amagertorv
0.4 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.
Frederiksholms Kanal
0.4 km
Discover Aarhus’s Latin Quarter—a picturesque maze of cobblestone streets, vibrant cafés, indie boutiques, art galleries, and an unmistakable creative spirit.
Strøget
0.4 km
Europe's pioneering pedestrian street where luxury shopping meets vibrant street culture and Danish heritage.
Havnepromenade
0.5 km
Copenhagen's historic 750-meter waterfront where 19th-century maritime heritage meets vibrant contemporary urban life.
Circle Bridge
0.5 km
A five-masted circle of light and steel where art, everyday crossings and Copenhagen’s maritime history meet above the waters of Christianshavn Canal.
Christianshavn
0.5 km
Maritime charm meets modern cool in Copenhagen's most picturesque neighbourhood of coloured houses and idyllic canals.
Copenhagen By Mie & Friends
0.5 km
Discover Copenhagen’s historic Botanical Garden, a serene oasis with Victorian glasshouses, winding paths, and thousands of rare plant species in the city’s heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Børsen
0.1 km
Explore Copenhagen’s Ripley’s Believe It or Not!—an imaginative museum of fascinating oddities, curiosities, and interactive wonders at City Hall Square.
Christiansborg Palace
0.2 km
Stroll along Frederiksholms Kanal, the elegant Copenhagen waterway flanked by historic palaces and vibrant cultural landmarks at the heart of Indre By.
Ved Stranden
0.2 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.
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.
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.
Nikolaj Art Gallery
0.3 km
Medieval church transformed into a beacon of experimental contemporary art in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Garden of the Royal Library
0.3 km
A serene 1920s garden on a former naval harbor, where maritime heritage and artistic beauty create Copenhagen's most peaceful urban retreat.
Bishop Absalon
0.3 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.
Danish Jewish Museum
0.3 km
An intimate museum in a 17th‑century boathouse where Daniel Libeskind’s Mitzvah‑shaped architecture tells 400 years of Danish Jewish history and rescue.
Søren Aabye Kierkegaard by Louis Hasselriis
0.3 km
A quiet bronze of Denmark’s great existential thinker, seated with manuscripts in a hidden garden behind the Royal Library in the heart of Copenhagen.
Højbro Plads
0.3 km
A historic canal in central Copenhagen, Frederiksholms Kanal blends royal heritage, elegant facades, and tranquil waterways in the heart of the Danish capital.
Højbro Pl.
0.3 km
Open, airy and steeped in history, Højbro Plads is Copenhagen’s neoclassical city living room between canal, palace views and busy pedestrian streets.
Slotsholmen
0.3 km
A compact canal island where medieval fortresses, royal palaces and modern democracy meet at the very heart of Copenhagen’s harbour.
Knippelsbro
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s copper-towered bascule bridge, where four centuries of harbour crossings, functionalist design and everyday city life meet above the Inner Harbour.
Essential places to dine
King Hans Cellar
0.2 km
Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
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.
à terre
0.3 km
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.
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.
Marv & Ben
0.4 km
Inventive New Nordic tasting menus and Danish culinary artistry await in an atmospheric 18th-century townhouse in Copenhagen’s historic Indre By.
Marchal
0.4 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
l’Alsace
0.5 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
No. 2
0.5 km
Relaxed Nordic brasserie by the Copenhagen waterfront, pairing Michelin‑level know‑how with harbour views, seasonal Danish produce and polished yet informal service.
Restaurant 1733
0.5 km
Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty classics served in a cosy 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade, with canal views and warm, informal hospitality.
Restaurant Tight
0.5 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.
Kanal-Caféen
0.5 km
Historic canal-side lunch restaurant from 1852, serving classic Danish smørrebrød and platters in cosy wood-panelled rooms beside Frederiksholms Kanal.
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.
Bistro Royal
0.5 km
Elegant all‑day French‑Danish bistro on Kongens Nytorv, pairing brasserie classics with prime people‑watching and a lively, chandelier‑lit atmosphere.
Goldfinch
0.5 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Nyhavns Færgekro
0.5 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Danish Souvenirs
0.3 km
Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
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.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
ILLUM
0.4 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.4 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
0.4 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.4 km
Historic Renaissance townhouse on Strøget where hand‑painted Royal Copenhagen porcelain, royal history and Danish design culture meet across three atmospheric floors.
Danish Souvenirs & Luggages
0.4 km
Central Strøget gift shop combining classic Danish souvenirs with practical luggage and bags, perfectly placed for a quick browse between Old Town sights.
Viking Souvenirs
0.4 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Magnolias
0.4 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.
Hygge Original
0.4 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.
Audrey Vintage
0.5 km
Curated vintage fashion in Copenhagen's heart, where timeless style meets sustainable shopping.
Akimbo
0.5 km
A cosy basement gift shop in Copenhagen’s old town, packed with colourful design, quirky treasures and hygge-infused souvenirs on charming Hyskenstræde.
& Other Stories
0.5 km
Contemporary Scandinavian fashion, shoes, accessories and beauty in a bright, minimalist space on Copenhagen’s iconic Strøget shopping street.
Norse Store
0.5 km
Minimalist Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in central Copenhagen, offering a curated mix of premium menswear, footwear and design-led essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
TATA Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
The Dubliner
0.4 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.
Brønnum
0.4 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
Balthazar
0.4 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.
Ruby
0.4 km
An unmarked 18th‑century townhouse on Nybrogade hides Ruby, a quietly glamorous cocktail institution where inventive drinks meet candlelit canal-side charm.
1105
0.4 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
Godt Øl
0.5 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.
Charlie's Bar
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Bar Deco
0.5 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Balderdash
0.5 km
Copenhagen’s candlelit cocktail laboratory in a 1732 townhouse, where hygge, art and daring seasonal drinks turn a quiet side street into an unforgettable night out.
The Moose
0.5 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.
Zefside
0.5 km
Underground cocktail bar by night, pulsing nightclub by dawn—Copenhagen's shape-shifting social hub.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lusso
0.5 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.
The Zoo
0.5 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.
Chateau Motel
0.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mini Bar
0.6 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
0.7 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Club Mambo
0.7 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Mirror
0.8 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Miami Bar
0.8 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Dorsia
0.8 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
La Terraza
0.8 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Cosy Bar
1.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Arch
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mirage
1.0 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
1.0 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
