Spanske Trappe (Den Spanske Trappe), Sønderborg
A once-grey stairway turned into a colourful nature mural, the Spanske Trappe is Sønderborg’s playful urban shortcut and small-scale landmark between two city streets.
Tucked between Bjerggade and Sønder Havnegade in central Sønderborg, the Spanske Trappe is a once‑ordinary granite stairway transformed into a vivid mural by artist Kristian Vodder Svensson. Viewed from the bottom, its 53 steps align into a single fairytale landscape, dotted with tiny creatures and playful details. It is both a practical shortcut and a colourful urban landmark, inviting you to pause, sit, and see how art reshapes an everyday city corner.
A brief summary to Spanske trappe
- Sønderborg, 6400, DK
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.75 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the full effect, stand at the bottom of the staircase and line yourself up directly in front of the lowest step; from here the 53 painted risers merge into one continuous landscape scene.
- Bring a camera or phone if you enjoy quirky urban photo spots; the stairs work well as a backdrop for portraits and detail shots of the tiny creatures and hidden motifs.
- The steps can be slippery in rain, frost or snow, so hold the handrail, walk slowly, and consider using the adjacent street route if your footing is unsteady.
- If you want to appreciate the artwork without crowds, come in the morning on a weekday when the staircase is quieter and you can linger longer at the base.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Walking from central Sønderborg
From the compact town centre and pedestrian shopping streets, the Spanske Trappe is typically 5–15 minutes away on foot depending on your starting point. The route involves ordinary pavements and, at the end, a fairly steep flight of granite steps between Bjerggade and Sønder Havnegade. Surfaces are mostly even, but the staircase itself is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams, which should use the nearby streets with gentler gradients instead.
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Local bus within Sønderborg
City buses running through central Sønderborg stop within roughly a 5–10 minute walk of the staircase, with typical journey times of 10–20 minutes from residential neighbourhoods around town. A single adult ticket on local buses usually costs around 20–30 DKK and can be bought from the driver or via regional ticketing apps. Service frequency is generally every 20–30 minutes during the day, with reduced departures in the evening and on weekends.
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Bicycle access in town
Sønderborg is relatively bike-friendly, and many visitors reach the area around the Spanske Trappe by bicycle in 5–10 minutes from most central districts. You can cycle along ordinary streets and marked cycle lanes, then dismount near either end of the staircase, as the steps themselves are not rideable. Surfaces are paved throughout, but be aware of short, fairly steep sections close to the stairs and occasional cobblestones that may be less comfortable for narrow tyres.
Spanske trappe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Spanske trappe
A painted stairway in the heart of Sønderborg
The Spanske Trappe is a steep granite stairway stitching together two central streets in Sønderborg, a practical route that has been part of everyday city life for years. Today, however, it is far more than a shortcut. Each riser has been painted so that, from the foot of the stairs, all 53 steps lock together into one continuous nature scene. Stand in just the right spot and what looks like separate stripes of colour suddenly becomes a single landscape. The staircase sits right in the compact core of the town, close to shops, housing and the harbourfront. It feels very local: people still hurry up and down on daily errands, bikes are pushed, shopping bags are carried, and children race each other to the top. The artwork simply overlays this routine with a layer of surprise and playfulness.An everyday structure turned into urban art
The transformation was carried out in a short, intense burst of work by Danish artist Kristian Vodder Svensson. Using the stair risers as a vertical canvas, he painted a stylised woodland world: soft hills, tree trunks, patches of sky, and the sense of walking into a small, imagined valley right in the middle of town. The title "Den Spanske Trappe" playfully nods to Rome’s famous Spanish Steps, but the atmosphere here is intimate rather than grand. One of the charms of the piece is how incomplete it looks when you are close to it. As you climb, the image fragments into abstract bars of colour. Only when you step back down to street level and line yourself up with the base do you see the full motif – a deliberate visual trick that rewards those who take the time to look.Hidden stories in the painted landscape
Look carefully along the stairs and you will spot small, whimsical details tucked into the larger scene. Tiny figures, stylised animals, and subtle shapes are blended into the brushwork, like a picture book scattered across the steps. Locals sometimes point out their favourite details to each other, turning a simple staircase into a little game of discovery. Because the painting runs across every riser, the mood shifts with the weather. On bright days the colours are sharp and almost graphic; on overcast afternoons the tones soften and the forest scene feels more subdued. In winter the paint can be dusted with frost; in summer, patches of sunlight move slowly down the stairway during the day, picking out different corners of the artwork.A casual pause point in the city fabric
The Spanske Trappe also works as a small urban terrace. The wide steps naturally invite people to sit down for a breather, chat with a friend or quietly watch the flow of the street below. It is informal and unplanned seating in the very fabric of the city, framed by colour instead of concrete grey. Thanks to its central position, the staircase often becomes a brief stop on a wider stroll through Sønderborg. It offers a quick dose of character in between other sights: the harbour, the historic streets and the town’s cultural venues. You rarely spend long here, but the memory of a painted stairway appearing around a corner tends to linger.A small landmark with a big splash of colour
What makes the Spanske Trappe distinctive is scale: the artwork is modest in size yet large enough to reshape the feel of this little slope between streets. It shows how a single intervention can give a neighbourhood a focal point and a nickname, turning directions like “take the stairs” into “meet me at the Spanish staircase.” For a visitor, it is a reminder that not every highlight is a monument or museum. Sometimes it is a piece of public art that you can walk on, sit on, and experience differently from every angle. Here, in the middle of Sønderborg, a staircase has become a story you climb through rather than simply pass over.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iskonditoriet
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Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
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Memory stone
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Windmill
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Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
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Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
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Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
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Mindesten for Røde Kors
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Tysk skanse X
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Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
King's Redoubt
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Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
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Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
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Foundation country Schäferhaus
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Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Bregninge Kirke
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Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Forladt skorsten
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A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Visselulles Have
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Small in size but rich in stories, Visselulles Have is a tranquil memorial garden that honours Sønderborg’s legendary female dockworker in her old neighbourhood.
Rådhustorvet
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Historic town square with a 16th‑century former town hall, Rådhustorvet is a compact, atmospheric hub in Sønderborg’s old quarter.
Ringridermuseet i Sønderborg
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Danmarks eneste ringridermuseum i et bindingsværkshus fra 1643, hvor lanser, medaljer og lokale fortællinger bringer Sønderborgs festlige tradition til live.
Vægmalerierne på Nørre Havnegade
0.2 km
Colorful gable murals on Sønderborg’s harborfront, where evolving large-scale artworks turn an everyday building into a vivid portrait of local life and heritage.
Genforeningssten i Sønderborg
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A monumental tribute to Denmark's 1920 reunification, nestled near historic Sønderborg Castle.
Hønekilden
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A tiny harbor-side spring where pure water, royal engineering and whispering legends blur into a tranquil urban nook of art and history.
Sønderborg Castle
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Centuries of royal drama, borderland wars and Southern Jutland stories unfold inside this waterfront fortress‑turned‑museum on the Alssund.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
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Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Sønderborghus
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Cosy cultural house in central Sønderborg, blending live music, creative workshops and a welcoming café into one relaxed, community-focused venue.
Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig
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A quiet harbour walk in Sønderborg that traces the invisible footprints of World War I through barracks, memorials and everyday streets in a former borderland town.
Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig
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Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Sønderborg Beach
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Pristine Danish beach with family-friendly waters, stunning sunsets, and a diving pier—perfect for seaside relaxation and photography.
Rønhaveplads
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A peaceful, local-favorite park offering tranquil ponds, leafy lawns, and family-friendly relaxation just outside Sønderborg’s city center. Free, welcoming, and authentic.
Fluepapiret
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A compact, unspoiled urban beach where locals gather to swim in the Baltic's gentle waters.
Dybbøl Strand
0.6 km
A peaceful Danish strand where sandy shores meet centuries of history and heritage.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Colosseum
0.1 km
Harbourfront Danish comfort food in a cosy, family-friendly setting with views over Sønderborg’s waterfront and a welcoming slice of Southern Jutland hygge.
Bistro Grand Mère
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Harborfront French bistro in Sønderborg, blending classic Gallic comfort dishes, thoughtful wines and a cozy green-paneled setting with views of the lively marina.
Curry Leaves
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Authentic Indian flavors and attentive service in the heart of Sønderborg
Promenaden - Is med udsigt
0.1 km
Casual harbourfront ice cream and hot dogs with wide-open views towards Sønderborg Castle, outdoor seating only and a playful, family-friendly seaside atmosphere.
The Grand Café
0.1 km
Elegant Danish dining on Sønderborg's main square, where refined cuisine meets genuine hospitality.
Marcello's
0.1 km
All‑day café, steakhouse and cocktail bar on Sønderborg’s central square, blending generous plates, easygoing drinks and relaxed people‑watching on Rådhustorvet.
Mongolian Barbecue
0.1 km
Create-your-own stir-fries on a sizzling grill at this lively Asian buffet in central Sønderborg, mixing Mongolian barbecue theatre with Chinese favourites and casual comfort.
Pizza House
0.2 km
Unfussy central Sønderborg pizzeria and grill serving Danish-style pizzas, burgers and hearty takeaway favourites for quick, budget-friendly meals.
Kong Kian Sønderborg
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Central Sønderborg fast‑casual spot for roasted chicken, spareribs and build‑your‑own sandwiches, serving from lunchtime through late night right on Rådhustorvet.
Lazy Dog Burgers - Worldclass Burgers from Sønderborg
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World-class burgers and cocktails in the heart of historic Sønderborg
Restaurant Flammen - Sønderborg
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All‑you‑can‑eat grill buffet and cozy evening atmosphere in the middle of Perlegade, perfect for families, groups and anyone hungry for a hearty Danish feast.
Niso Sushi ApS
0.2 km
Lively running-sushi and Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Sønderborg, serving endless plates of sushi and Asian bites in a relaxed, central setting.
Ristorante Fratelli
0.2 km
Lively Italian restaurant on Sønderborg’s central square, serving wood-fired-style pizzas, classic pasta and Italian wines in a modern, cozy setting.
Peking Restaurant
0.2 km
Spacious Chinese buffet, sushi and Mongolian barbecue in central Sønderborg, ideal for relaxed group meals, family dinners and easy, inexpensive feasts.
Oyisi Sushi Sønderborg
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All-you-can-eat Japanese flavours with tablet ordering and charming robot waiters in a lively, modern sushi restaurant on Sønderborg’s main shopping street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
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Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Twizt Fashion
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Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Jim P.
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Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Viller
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Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
Tøjeksperten
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Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
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Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Kop & Kande
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Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
JACK & JONES
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Straightforward Scandinavian menswear in the heart of Borgen Shopping, ideal for denim, casual basics and smart-casual outfits under one convenient indoor roof.
Zizzi - Sønderborg
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Modern plus-size fashion for women in the heart of Sønderborg’s Borgen Shopping centre, combining Scandinavian style, generous sizing and friendly fit-focused advice.
Noa Noa
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A small Danish fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, showcasing Noa Noa’s feminine, bohemian-inspired style in a calm, easy-to-browse setting.
Masai
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Danish fashion boutique celebrating bold colors, unique prints, and Scandinavian design excellence.
Borgen
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Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
Normal
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Bright, budget‑friendly beauty and everyday essentials in the heart of Borgen Shopping, perfect for quick top‑ups and casual browsing between Sønderborg sights.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
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A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
ONLY
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Scandinavian high-street style, denim-focused collections and easy everyday fashion inside Borgen Shopping in the heart of Sønderborg.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Visselulles Vinbar
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Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Old Danish Pub
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Classic hygge-filled pub near Sønderborg’s main square, with affordable drinks, games, sports on screen and lively karaoke evenings on two cosy floors.
SKAAL Sønderborg
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Modern craft beer bar and kitchen on Sønderborg’s main square, pouring rotating Danish brews and serving hearty comfort food in a stylish, urban setting.
Bar' Vinbar
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Central Sønderborg’s relaxed corner wine bar, pouring around 50 wines by the glass plus cocktails, coffee and light bites in a warm, informal atmosphere.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
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Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
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Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
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Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Nebula.dk ApS
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Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
Den Lille Vinbar
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Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
the tea house
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South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
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Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Freia Bar & Lounge
0.6 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
0.6 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Caféen
0.6 km
Lively, low‑priced bar inside Sønderborg’s Alsion complex, where students and locals meet for music, dancing and late‑night drinks by the harbour.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
0.7 km
Classic brown beer hall on Sønderborg’s main street, serving simple drinks, local atmosphere and everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
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
