The Enchanting Little Mermaid: A Copenhagen Icon
Discover the magic of Copenhagen at The Little Mermaid, a captivating sculpture that tells a timeless tale of love and longing by the sea.
A brief summary to The Little Mermaid
- Langelinie, København Ø, København Ø, 2100, DK
The Little Mermaid is one of Copenhagen's most beloved landmarks, capturing the hearts of thousands of visitors each year. This enchanting bronze sculpture, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, depicts a mermaid perched on a rock, gazing wistfully at the sea. Since its unveiling in 1913, it has become a symbol of the city, representing both the beauty and the melancholic nature of the story it portrays. Located along the picturesque Langelinie promenade, the statue is surrounded by stunning views of the waterfront and nearby attractions. Tourists flock to this site, not only to take photos with the mermaid but also to appreciate the serene atmosphere of the harbor. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, where the Little Mermaid is just one of many sights to behold. The area is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoyment after visiting the statue. Additionally, the nearby Kastellet, a well-preserved star-shaped fortress, offers a glimpse into Denmark's military history and provides a lovely backdrop for photos. While the statue itself is relatively small, its significance is immense, making it a highlight of any trip to Copenhagen. Don't forget to take a moment to reflect on the tale of the Little Mermaid and the themes of sacrifice and longing that it embodies.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and capture the perfect photo.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Langelinie promenade for stunning views of the harbor.
- Don't just take a picture with the statue; take time to read about its history and significance.
- Check out nearby attractions like the Amalienborg Palace and Nyhavn after visiting the mermaid.
- Be mindful of the tides; sometimes the statue can be surrounded by water, making for a different view.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Copenhagen from anywhere in Zealand. Use the E20 motorway, which connects the major cities. Once you approach Copenhagen, follow signs for 'København Ø' and 'Langelinie'. The Little Mermaid is located at Langelinie, 2100 København Ø. You can park nearby, but be aware that parking in the area may require a fee, so check for parking meters or nearby parking lots.
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Public Transportation - Train
To reach The Little Mermaid via public transportation, take a train from any location in Zealand to Copenhagen Central Station (København H). From there, transfer to the S-train network and take the S-train line A or B towards Klampenborg or Hillerød, respectively. Get off at Østerport Station. From Østerport, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to The Little Mermaid. Follow the signs towards Langelinie along the waterfront.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Alternatively, you can take a bus from various locations in Zealand to Copenhagen. Look for the bus services that connect to the city center. Once in the city, you can take bus number 26 towards 'Langelinie', which will take you directly to the area near The Little Mermaid. Make sure to check the bus schedule for any potential costs and travel times.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, there are bike paths leading from various locations in Zealand into Copenhagen. Once you arrive in the city, follow the designated bike lanes towards Langelinie. This is a scenic route along the waterfront, and bike parking is available near The Little Mermaid.
