Nyhavn

A 17th-century canal harbor lined with colorful gabled houses and wooden sailing ships, the emblem of Copenhagen. Hans Christian Andersen lived here for 18 years.

Nyhavn is a canal harbor dug in the 1670s on the orders of King Christian V, extending from Kongens Nytorv toward the inner harbor. Lined on both sides with colorful 17th- and 18th-century gabled houses, it was once a gathering place for sailors and taverns and a red-light district. Today it is Copenhagen's most popular dining and strolling area. The restaurants on the north bank, the sunny side, set out outdoor seating that fills with tourists from afternoon until sunset. Hans Christian Andersen lived at Nyhavn 20, 67 and 18, where he wrote fairy tales such as 'The Tinderbox' and 'The Princess and the Pea'; memorial plaques mark the houses. The old wooden sailing ships moored by the bridge and the 1673 anchor-shaped monument are classic photo spots, and the best panorama is from across the canal, on the Charlottenborg Palace side, or from the bridge. This is also the main departure point for canal cruises. The one-hour cruises run by Stromma and Netto-Bådene (about DKK 100–140, free with the Copenhagen Card) pass the Little Mermaid, the Opera House and the Black Diamond library before returning. They are the best way for first-timers to get to know the city. Walk 15 minutes north along the waterfront to Amalienborg Palace. To the south, cross the Inderhavnsbroen (Inner Harbour Bridge, a pedestrian and cycling bridge built in 2016) in about 5 minutes to reach Christianshavn. Note: restaurant prices in Nyhavn are high (an open-faced smørrebrød sandwich costs about DKK 100–150), so locals more often buy a beer and sit on the quayside. In winter, some restaurants provide blankets and heaters.

Nyhavn

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Places to eat nearby