Kaptajn Nalle by Thomas Dambo
A giant recycled-wood troll hauling his boat ashore on Copenhagen’s wild Nordhavn fringe, blending playful treasure hunt, harbor scenery and a strong reuse message.
Hidden on the wild edge of Copenhagen’s Nordhavn district, Kaptajn Nalle is one of Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s giant recycled-wood trolls. Standing in a sandy, grassy former industrial field near the harbor, this bearded “captain” leans his weight into a small boat, as if hauling it ashore from the Øresund. Part open-air artwork, part treasure-hunt finale, the sculpture blends playful storytelling, urban fringe landscapes and a strong sustainability message, making it a memorable stop just beyond central Copenhagen.
A brief summary to Kaptajn Nalle by Thomas Dambo
- Nordsøvej, Copenhagen, Østerbro, 2150, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, closed shoes: the final approach to Kaptajn Nalle crosses sandy, grassy and sometimes muddy ground rather than paved paths.
- Bring water and a snack or pick something up in Nordhavn before you start the troll trail, as there are no cafés or shops at the sculpture itself.
- Check the weather and dress for wind; the site is very exposed, and conditions can feel cooler than in central Copenhagen.
- If you are cycling, use a good lock and be prepared to leave your bike a short distance from the final field and continue on foot.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light and more atmospheric photos of the troll, boat and harbor backdrop.
Getting There
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Metro and walk
From central Copenhagen, take the M4 metro line to Nordhavn Station, which usually takes around 7–10 minutes from Kongens Nytorv. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and a standard single-zone ticket costs roughly 20–30 DKK depending on your ticket type. From Nordhavn Station, allow about 35–45 minutes to walk through the harbor district to the troll trail and out to Kaptajn Nalle’s field; the route is flat but includes stretches of unfinished urban landscape that may feel long in bad weather.
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Bicycle from city centre
Cycling from the inner city to Nordhavn typically takes 20–30 minutes, using Copenhagen’s extensive network of separated bike lanes. You can rent a city bike or a standard rental bicycle for roughly 100–150 DKK per day, with helmets often available as an add‑on. Once in Nordhavn, follow the waterfront and internal roads toward the outer harbor, then park your bike near the last paved section and continue on foot for the final 10–15 minutes over gravel and sandy ground. The terrain is mostly flat but can be windy and exposed.
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Local train and walk
S‑trains on the coastal line stop at Nordhavn Station, usually 5–8 minutes from Østerport. These trains accept the same tickets and city passes as the metro, so a single trip will generally be in the 20–30 DKK range within the central zones. From the station, plan for a 35–45 minute walk each way to reach the sculpture, following harbor roads and then unpaved paths. This option is convenient if you are already using the S‑train network elsewhere in Copenhagen, but be prepared for limited shade and changing weather along the final stretch.
Kaptajn Nalle by Thomas Dambo location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Kaptajn Nalle by Thomas Dambo
A giant wooden captain at the edge of Nordhavn
Kaptajn Nalle waits at the far end of Nordhavn, where Copenhagen’s polished new quarters give way to raw harbor fringes of sand, grass and scattered scrap metal. Here, in a windswept open field, the giant troll leans his full wooden weight into a small boat, thick arms stretched forward, as if he has just dragged it out of the Baltic and onto the city’s doorstep. With his shaggy beard of sticks, sturdy frame and quietly determined posture, he feels less like a sculpture and more like a character paused mid‑story. The surroundings are part of the experience. Container yards, cranes and distant cruise ships line the horizon, while patches of wild grass and sandy soil reclaim former industrial land. It is a place between city and sea, where redevelopment is still underway and traces of the old harbor are easy to spot. Encountering such a whimsical figure in this rough, transitional landscape creates a deliberate contrast that underlines the project’s playful spirit.The story behind Thomas Dambo’s trolls
Kaptajn Nalle is troll number 61 in the ever‑growing universe of giant sculptures created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Known for working almost exclusively with reclaimed materials, Dambo and his team build these towering figures from discarded pallets, surplus wood and other cast‑off items. The boat Nalle is hauling was donated and later covered in graffiti, a reminder that the artwork continues to interact with its environment long after installation. This troll belongs to the series often referred to as the Giant Troll Party, a follow‑up to Dambo’s earlier Six Forgotten Giants. Those original giants were hidden in under‑loved green spaces outside Copenhagen, encouraging people to explore beyond the usual attractions. With Kaptajn Nalle and his newer companions, the idea has been extended into urban regeneration areas like Nordhavn, where art, sustainability and city planning intersect in surprising ways.A treasure hunt on the urban fringe
Reaching Kaptajn Nalle is intentionally a small adventure. The official trail begins deeper in Nordhavn and uses clues rather than big signposts, turning the visit into a light‑hearted treasure hunt. Along the way, small markers and subtle hints point you farther from the polished waterfront and into rougher terrain. By the time you reach the troll, the city’s noise has faded, replaced by gulls, the hum of distant port traffic and the crunch of gravel underfoot. Because the sculpture stands in an open field, there is plenty of space to wander around, frame photos from different angles and notice the construction details: overlapping planks, visible screws, and the clever use of scrap pieces to create expressive hands and a textured face. Children tend to circle the boat and investigate the tall grass, while adults often pause to take in the unexpected scale of the work against the low‑lying landscape and wide Copenhagen sky.Sustainability message in wood and wind
Kaptajn Nalle is more than a fun photo stop; he is a physical manifestation of Dambo’s broader mission to highlight reuse and circular design. Every plank and beam has been given a second life, transformed from anonymous waste into a character with personality and purpose. In a harbor district shaped by redevelopment and construction, the troll acts as a reminder that progress does not have to mean throwing everything away. The coastal setting reinforces this theme. Standing by Nalle, with the boat at his feet and the open water just beyond, it is easy to imagine stories about rising seas, changing climates and the fragile balance between city growth and nature. Yet the sculpture never feels didactic. Instead, its humor and warmth invite visitors to reflect casually on how materials, places and people can all be reused, reimagined and renewed.Planning your time with the captain
Most visitors spend a short but satisfying stretch of time here, often combining the troll hunt with a wider wander through Nordhavn’s waterfront promenades and modern architecture. The location is exposed, so weather plays a big role in the experience: on clear days, the light is sharp and the colors vivid; in wind or drizzle, the troll feels even more rugged and seafaring. There are no formal facilities immediately at the sculpture, so it is wise to bring water, a snack and suitable shoes for uneven ground. The flat terrain makes the walk manageable for most, though the last stretch can involve dirt paths rather than paved surfaces. Whether you arrive by bike or on foot, the reward is the same: a quiet, slightly surreal encounter with a giant wooden captain quietly hauling his boat toward the city, inviting you to pause and share the moment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Monument
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Honoring Denmark’s seafaring legacy, the Maritime Monument in Østerbro is a striking, evocative memorial nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s leafy cityscape.
Kildevældsparken
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Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
Iver Huitfeldt Memorial
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Nyholm Central Guardhouse
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Our Fallen
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A bronze tribute to World War II sacrifice, standing sentinel at Kastellet's gate since 1957.
Fælledparken
3.4 km
Copenhagen’s largest and most beloved city park, Fælledparken offers a dynamic blend of green tranquility, local culture, sports, and major city events in Østerbro.
Horn mine
3.4 km
A disarmed World War II naval mine displayed in Churchill Park, turning a former weapon of the sea into a quiet reminder of conflict amid central Copenhagen’s greenery.
The Tower Playground
3.6 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
I am Queen Mary
3.6 km
A powerful harborfront monument honoring rebel leader Mary Thomas, confronting Copenhagen’s colonial past beside the historic West Indian Warehouse.
St. Paul's Church
3.7 km
Neo‑Romanesque red brick meets ochre-yellow naval housing at this calm parish church, giving Nyboder a quiet spiritual heart amid central Copenhagen.
Amaliegade
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Lively and historic, Folkets Park Malmö is Sweden’s oldest public park, blending family fun, local culture, music, and nature at the heart of Malmö.
Larsens Pl.
3.8 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
St. Alexander Nevsky Church
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Copenhagen's ornate Russian Orthodox gem with gilded domes and royal heritage near Amalienborg Palace.
Amalienborg Palace Museum
3.9 km
Immerse yourself in the splendor and stories of Denmark’s monarchy at Amalienborg Palace Museum, where royal tradition and personal history come alive.
Frederik's Church
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Copenhagen's iconic copper-domed masterpiece—a 145-year architectural triumph offering panoramic views and spiritual grandeur.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trekroner Fort
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Historic sea fortress on an artificial island at Copenhagen’s harbour mouth, blending coastal views, cool casemate tunnels and centuries of naval history.
Svanemølle Beach
1.9 km
Compact urban sands, a long wooden pier and sheltered shallows make Svanemølle Beach Østerbro’s easygoing city escape on the edge of Svanemølle Bay.
Langelinie
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Segway Cruise Copenhagen
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Tuborgflasken
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The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid by Bjørn Nørgaard
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A darkly playful harbourfront sculpture that twists Copenhagen’s fairytale mermaid into a sharp, bronze critique of genetics, icons and postmodern life.
Experimentarium
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Reffen - Skøjteøen
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Copenhagen Contemporary
2.7 km
Immersive large-scale installation art in a vast former shipyard hall at the heart of Copenhagen’s raw, waterfront cultural district on Refshaleøen.
Refshaleøen, Copenhagen
2.8 km
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Inugsuk
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The Little Mermaid
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Monument to Denmark's international activities after 1948
3.0 km
A quiet, contemporary memorial within Copenhagen’s star-shaped fortress, honoring Denmark’s post‑1948 international missions with flame, stone and thoughtful space.
Langelinie Pavillonen
3.1 km
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Langelinieparken
3.1 km
Leafy waterfront lawns, sculptures and sea views where cruise ships, mythic fountains and Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid all meet along a single harbourfront walk.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Silo
1.4 km
Contemporary Nordic dining and cocktails on the 17th floor of a converted grain silo, with sweeping harbor and city views across Copenhagen’s evolving Nordhavn waterfront.
Sushi Anaba
1.5 km
Europe's finest omakase counter, where Nordic seafood meets Tokyo precision in an eight-seat sanctuary of culinary excellence.
Veve
2.6 km
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Alchemist
2.6 km
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PAX
2.7 km
Experience innovative Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Østerbro at PAX, where a dynamic menu and cozy ambiance await.
Hos Fischer
2.7 km
Experience authentic Italian trattoria dining and neighborhood hospitality at Hos Fischer, a beloved Østerbro culinary gem near the tranquil green heart of Copenhagen.
Restaurant Madklubben Østerbro
2.7 km
Enjoy approachable modern Danish cuisine and vibrant local life in the stylish heart of Østerbro at Restaurant Madklubben, where good food and great company meet.
Geranium
3.0 km
Geranium offers a world-class New Nordic tasting experience in Copenhagen, uniting innovative Scandinavian cuisine, sustainable luxury, and panoramic city views.
La Banchina
3.1 km
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Dag H
3.2 km
Stylish Østerbro brasserie offering classic bistro plates, all-day dining, and a cosmopolitan terrace in Copenhagen’s embassy quarter.
Gro Eatery
3.2 km
Experience modern Nordic cuisine in an urban rooftop farm setting at Gro Eatery, where seasonal tasting menus and city views meet Danish sustainability in Østerbro.
Tèrra
3.7 km
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Kokkeriet
3.8 km
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Noma
3.9 km
Boundary-pushing New Nordic tasting menus in an understated waterfront warehouse, where radical seasonality, fermentation and Danish warmth shape an immersive dining experience.
Aoc
4.1 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Cross Op Shop
2.6 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
The Crown souvenir
3.5 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Royal Souvenir Shop
4.0 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
The Wilde Shop
4.3 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Maritime Antiques &
4.3 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Zane
4.4 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Copenhagenglass
4.4 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
4.4 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
4.5 km
Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Storm - design art fashion
4.5 km
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Butik Bungalow
4.5 km
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Danish Souvenirs & luggages
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Viking Souvenirs
4.5 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
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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
4.6 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chevy's
2.1 km
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Gotland - Café & Vinbar
2.3 km
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Kompasset Ølbar
2.4 km
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Bubbles Bar
2.5 km
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Tap10
2.6 km
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Østerbros Perle Pub
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
ØB
3.0 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
Trianglen 7
3.1 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik - Østerbro
3.1 km
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Søernes Ølbar
3.4 km
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Black Swan
3.8 km
Craft-forward, cosy and unpretentious, Black Swan is Copenhagen’s inner-city local where rotating taps, serious cider and good conversation flow late into the night.
Aloha Beach Bar
4.4 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
The Barking Dog
4.4 km
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Trykbar
4.4 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
Bar Deco
4.4 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Culture Box
3.9 km
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SIGURD CPH
4.0 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Mini Bar
4.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
RUST Natklub
4.5 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Lusso
4.5 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
4.5 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.
Temple Bar
4.7 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Mirage
4.8 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
4.8 km
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Operaen
4.9 km
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Hive
5.0 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Chateau Motel
5.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Rumors
5.1 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
5.1 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
La Terraza
5.1 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- 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
