Nyhavn: Copenhagen’s Historic Waterfront Gem
Nyhavn is Copenhagen's iconic waterfront promenade, famous for its colorful houses, bustling quayside bars, historic canal boats, and fairytale ambiance.
Nyhavn is a vibrant, centuries-old harbor in central Copenhagen renowned for its colorful 17th-century townhouses, lively cafés, and scenic canal views. Once a bustling commercial port filled with sailors and locals, today it stands as the city’s favorite gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering an atmospheric blend of history, music, and waterfront charm.
A brief summary to Nyhavn
- K, Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1051, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early or late in the evening for quieter moments and better photo opportunities, especially during peak season.
- Look for commemorative plaques on the buildings; several mark where Hans Christian Andersen once lived and wrote.
- Boat tours depart directly from the canal, offering a unique view of Copenhagen’s historic waterfront.
- Most outdoor cafés add a small service charge; consider bringing an extra layer as the breeze off the water can be cool even in summer.
- During December, Nyhavn hosts a charming Christmas market with Danish treats and festive gifts.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central Zealand, regional trains connect smoothly to Copenhagen Central Station. From there, it's a short metro or bus journey toward Kongens Nytorv, a major transport hub just steps from Nyhavn’s entrance. The metro ride is about 2–3 stops and typically costs 24–36 DKK for a single adult ticket. Public transit is frequent, well-marked, and accessible, but expect increased crowds during weekends and summer. Elevators and escalators ease access for those with mobility needs.
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Walking
For visitors already in Copenhagen’s old town or staying nearby, Nyhavn is a scenic ~10-minute walk from major central landmarks such as City Hall or Strøget. The route leads through bustling pedestrian areas filled with shops, cafes, and occasional live performances, making the approach lively but level and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis from central Copenhagen averages 5–10 minutes travel time depending on traffic, typically costing 70–120 DKK. Drop-off points are adjacent to the canal; parking is extremely limited and can be costly, with central zones averaging 20–40 DKK per hour.
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Biking
Copenhagen is famously bike-friendly, and Nyhavn offers ample bike racks along its periphery. City bike rentals are widely available, with typical rates around 12–25 DKK per hour. Cycling in from the city center is straightforward via marked paths, though the area can be crowded, especially on sunny weekends.
Discover more about Nyhavn
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Sankt Annæ Pl.
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Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen
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Bredgade 18
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Kongens Nytorv
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Historic observatory in Aarhus combining hands-on stargazing, interactive astronomy exhibits, and tranquil parkland with panoramic city views.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
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Christiansborg Palace blends Danish royal heritage with contemporary political power at the heart of Copenhagen, offering grand halls, historic ruins, and sweeping city views.
The King's New Square
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Kongens Nytorv, Copenhagen’s grandest square, blends royal history, iconic architecture, and bustling urban energy in the very heart of Denmark’s capital.
Christianshavns Kanal
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Aarhus’s Latin Quarter: vibrant cobbled lanes, eclectic cafés, independent shops, and a creative spirit in the city’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood.
Amaliegade
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Larsens Pl.
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C.F. Tietgens Hus
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Holmens Bro
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Højbro Pl.
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Frederik VII
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Agnete and the Merman Statue
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kunsthal Charlottenborg
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Memorial Anchor
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Copenhagen Amber Museum
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The Playhouse
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UNESCO-listed Kronborg Castle in Helsingør: legendary home of Hamlet, Renaissance grandeur, sweeping sea views, regal halls, and atmospheric casemates.
The Kissing Stairs
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Hey Captain
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Ofelia Plads
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Inderhavnsbroen
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Ribersborgsstranden: Malmö’s expansive city beach, perfect for swimming, scenic walks, and authentic Nordic sauna experiences, overlooking the Øresund strait.
Havnepromenade
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Explore Copenhagen’s vibrant Nordic art scene at Bredgade Kunsthandel, a distinguished gallery bridging Danish classics and contemporary masters in the heart of Frederiksstaden.
Havnegade Promenaden
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Family-friendly playground in Roskilde’s green Byparken, offering safe, modern play spaces and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Indre By
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A creative, bohemian street in Nørrebro filled with indie shops, top-tier bakery delights, and cafés—Copenhagen’s authentic neighborhood for modern urban explorers.
North Atlantic House
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Guinness World Records Museum
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Historic waterfront promenade in Copenhagen featuring the iconic Little Mermaid, scenic harbor views, art, and inviting green spaces ideal for strolling year-round.
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Essential places to dine
Khun Juk
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Cap Horn
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Aoc
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Barr
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Restaurant Barr
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Marchal
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Bistro Royal
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Den Lille Fede
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Restaurant Vita
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Llama
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King Hans Cellar
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Frank
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Restaurant Rebel
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wilde Shop
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Magasin du Nord
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Storm - design art fashion
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ILLUM
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Henrik Vibskov Boutique
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Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
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Strøget
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Charlie's Bar
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K-Bar
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The Dubliner
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Black Swan
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Bo-Bi Bar
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Balderdash
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The Bird and The Churchkey
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Lord Nelson Bar
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Strøm
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Bar'Vin
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Ruby
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Godt Øl
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Luke's Bar
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