Den Spanske Trappe, Sønderborg
A once ordinary granite stairway turned into a colourful forest painting, Den Spanske Trappe is Sønderborg’s intimate urban landmark between homes and harbour.
Tucked between Bjerggade and Sønder Have in central Sønderborg, Den Spanske Trappe is a broad granite staircase transformed into a colourful outdoor artwork. Painted by artist Kristian Vodder Svensson, its 53 steps form a whimsical forest landscape when viewed from the bottom, turning a former shortcut through the Solo housing complex into a small urban landmark, photo stop and quiet place to sit with views towards Alssund.
A brief summary to Spanske trappe
- Sønderborg, 6400, DK
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Stand at the very bottom of the staircase to see the forest motif align into a single continuous artwork across all 53 steps.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when softer light makes colours richer and photos easier to capture without harsh shadows.
- Combine the stair with a short stroll through the Solo quarter to appreciate the contrast between the modern buildings and the playful painting.
- If you are travelling with children, turn the climb into a game by spotting animals, birds and hidden details in the painted forest.
- Bring a takeaway coffee and use one of the broad steps as an informal bench for a brief pause during a walk around central Sønderborg.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from central Sønderborg
From the central shopping streets and waterfront area in Sønderborg, allow 10–20 minutes on foot to reach Den Spanske Trappe in the Solo residential quarter. The walk involves gentle uphill sections and some cobbled pavements but no long or steep climbs until you reach the staircase itself. This option is free and suitable for most visitors with average mobility, though wheelchair users may prefer routes that avoid the steps.
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Local city bus within Sønderborg
Several local bus lines run through central Sønderborg and stop within a few hundred metres of the Solo housing complex, with typical journey times of 5–15 minutes from the central bus area depending on route and traffic. Single tickets within the city generally cost around 20–30 DKK and can usually be bought from ticket machines or the driver. Buses run more frequently on weekdays and during daytime; evening and weekend services may be reduced.
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Bicycle from wider Sønderborg area
Sønderborg is compact and reasonably bike-friendly, so reaching Den Spanske Trappe by bicycle from most urban districts typically takes 10–25 minutes. Expect short hills and mixed surfaces, including some narrow residential streets near the destination. Using a personal or rental bicycle is free beyond any rental cost, and this option suits visitors comfortable cycling in light city traffic. Bike racks can usually be found on nearby streets outside the stair area.
Spanske trappe location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Spanske trappe
A painted staircase at the heart of Sønderborg
Den Spanske Trappe cuts through the modern Solo housing complex in central Sønderborg, linking Bjerggade with Sønder Havegade in a steep, open corridor of stone and light. What was once a purely functional granite stair has been turned into a piece of urban art, instantly recognisable and quietly iconic for people who pass through the neighbourhood. As you approach from below, the staircase rises in a wide fan, flanked by brick facades and glimpses of balconies, creating a compact, almost amphitheatre-like space. From the top landings you can look out between the buildings towards Alssund, catching a slice of water and the city beyond, a reminder that this little stairway is firmly embedded in Sønderborg’s everyday life.The artist and his forest on stone
In 2017 local authorities invited artist Kristian Vodder Svensson to transform the grey steps into something more than a shortcut. Over just nine days, with buckets of paint and a clear vision, he covered all 53 risers with an imaginative forest scene. Trees, animals and birds emerge as you stand at the foot of the stairs, forming a continuous natural landscape that only fully comes together from this vantage point. Walk up or down and the illusion dissolves into fragments of colour and detail. This play between image and movement makes the staircase feel alive: every few steps reveal a new creature, a branch, or a splash of sky blue. It is as much about discovery as it is about decoration, inviting you to slow down instead of simply hurrying through.From soap factory ground to Solo quarter landmark
The staircase sits on the former site of the Solo factory, a soap producer that helped shape this part of Sønderborg from the late 19th century. When the industrial buildings were cleared and the Solo residential complex was built, the stair provided a practical link up the hill. Over time, the painted steps have become a subtle nod to this shift from factory yard to living neighbourhood. Today the name Solo survives in the housing estate and in local stories, while Den Spanske Trappe adds a layer of contemporary creativity. The contrast between clean-lined modern apartments and the playful, nature-inspired painting reflects Sønderborg’s broader blend of history, renewal and design-conscious urban planning.A small urban stage for everyday pauses
For visitors, the staircase is less an attraction to tick off and more a place to linger. The broad steps double as informal seating, and people often pause halfway to chat, sip a takeaway coffee or let children hop from colour to colour. The changing light across the day alters the mood of the artwork, from crisp outlines in morning sun to softer tones in the evening. Photographers are drawn to the strong lines of the stair, the vertical drop between the buildings and the vivid painted bands. Stand at the bottom to capture the full forest motif, or at the top looking down to play with perspective. Because the stair cuts straight through the block, it feels both sheltered and connected to the surrounding streets.Exploring Sønderborg around the steps
Den Spanske Trappe works well as a short stop while exploring central Sønderborg on foot. It lies within easy reach of the historic waterfront, green promenades and cultural sights, yet sits just far enough off the busiest routes to feel local and relaxed. The nearby streets mix everyday shops and homes, underlining that this is a piece of public art woven into daily routines rather than a stand‑alone monument. Whether you stay for a few minutes or half an hour, the staircase offers a compact glimpse of how Sønderborg uses art to soften urban spaces. It turns a simple climb into an encounter with colour, history and a touch of quiet imagination.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iskonditoriet
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Byparkens Legeplads in Roskilde fuses creative play equipment and green park scenery for a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of the historic Danish city.
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
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A vibrant family-friendly playground in central Roskilde, Byparkens Legeplads offers open-air fun, creativity, and relaxation in the heart of the city’s beloved Byparken.
Memory stone
0.2 km
A modest monument on Sønderborg’s town-hall square, the Memory Stone offers a quiet pause for reflection amid the everyday bustle of this historic border town.
Windmill
0.4 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
0.5 km
Hidden beneath Kongevej lies Sønderborg’s former Cold War nerve center, an underground command bunker built to keep the city running in times of crisis.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
1.8 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
2.0 km
A modest stone on Sønderborg’s former shooting range honouring two fallen wartime servicemen, inviting a brief but powerful pause for remembrance and reflection.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
2.2 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Tysk skanse X
2.4 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
King's Redoubt
2.4 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
2.5 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
6.9 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Foundation country Schäferhaus
30.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Bregninge Kirke
33.5 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Forladt skorsten
34.3 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Visselulles Have
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
Historic town square with a 16th‑century former town hall, Rådhustorvet is a compact, atmospheric hub in Sønderborg’s old quarter.
Ringridermuseet i Sønderborg
0.2 km
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
0.3 km
A monumental tribute to Denmark's 1920 reunification, nestled near historic Sønderborg Castle.
Hønekilden
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
Centuries of royal drama, borderland wars and Southern Jutland stories unfold inside this waterfront fortress‑turned‑museum on the Alssund.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
0.4 km
Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Sønderborghus
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Sønderborg Beach
0.5 km
Pristine Danish beach with family-friendly waters, stunning sunsets, and a diving pier—perfect for seaside relaxation and photography.
Rønhaveplads
0.5 km
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
0.6 km
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
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
World-class burgers and cocktails in the heart of historic Sønderborg
Restaurant Flammen - Sønderborg
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Twizt Fashion
0.2 km
Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Jim P.
0.2 km
Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Viller
0.2 km
Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
Tøjeksperten
0.3 km
Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
0.3 km
Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Kop & Kande
0.3 km
Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
JACK & JONES
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
Danish fashion boutique celebrating bold colors, unique prints, and Scandinavian design excellence.
Borgen
0.3 km
Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
Normal
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
ONLY
0.3 km
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
0.1 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Old Danish Pub
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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
0.3 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
0.4 km
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kaizen ApS
0.2 km
Compact disco-style nightclub in central Sønderborg, pulsing with late-night beats, colourful lights and a straightforward bar for an unpretentious night out.
Dance All Over
6.8 km
Sønderborg’s sociable dance hub, where fitness, swing and party-ready moves come together in energetic, community-driven classes across the city.
Ærø Whiskey Destilleri
40.0 km
Experience the artisanal charm of Ærø Whisky Distillery in Ærøskøbing, where local ingredients and traditional methods create unique island whiskies.
Ærø Jazzfestival
40.1 km
Experience the soul of Danish jazz at Ærø Jazzfestival, where international rhythms meet island heritage in the historic harbor of Ærøskøbing each summer.
Ela-Ela Schleswig
44.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Schleswig at Ela-Ela, where music and dancing come alive in an unforgettable disco experience.
Ommel
44.9 km
A small, sociable island nightspot near Marstal where locals and travelers share quiet drinks, simple music and the easygoing charm of Ærø after dark.
VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig
45.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig, a lively night club perfect for dancing and socializing until dawn.
TANZ-FABRIK / Tanzlokal
45.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Schleswig at TANZ-FABRIK, where music and dance create unforgettable memories every Saturday night.
Discothek Vineta
50.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Busdorf at Discothek Vineta, where vibrant music and dancing await in a welcoming atmosphere.
Crazy Daisy Svendborg
55.3 km
Compact, high-energy weekend nightclub in central Svendborg, serving mainstream beats, drinks and a sociable dance floor until the early hours.
Al Capone
58.7 km
Tønder’s sole nightclub, Al Capone blends a rustic 1920s‑inspired mood, late‑night beats and strong drinks into an intimate speakeasy‑style party den.
P2 Champagne & Cocktail Tønder
58.8 km
Intimate champagne and cocktail lounge bringing late-night sparkle and city-style glamour to the historic heart of Tønder.
Kasket karl
59.2 km
Discover authentic Danish hospitality and local color at Kasket Karl, Rudkøbing’s beloved bodega on Langeland—a lively gathering spot offering drinks, history, and community.
Langelands Jazzklub
60.0 km
Experience the vibrant local jazz scene at Langelands Jazzklub in Rudkøbing, where live music and island hospitality meet in one of Denmark’s most charming settings.
Carlsens Kvarter
65.8 km
Atmospheric pub in Odense C, offering unmatched hygge, an impressive selection of craft beers, and a welcoming local vibe in a characterful historic setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- 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
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
