The square was intentionally modeled after the Place des Vosges in Paris to demonstrate Denmark's status as a European power.
The central equestrian statue is the oldest of its kind in Denmark, dating back to 1688.
The Hotel d'Angleterre, located on the square, has hosted royalty and diplomats since its founding in 1755.
Charlottenborg Palace, bordering the square, serves as the home for the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and the Kunsthal Charlottenborg exhibition space.
During the 18th century, the square was used for public executions before being repurposed as a formal garden.
The square's underground currently houses one of the city's most significant transit interchanges, integrated carefully beneath the historic surface.
Kongens Nytorv, or the King's New Square, serves as Copenhagen's largest public square and a central hub for the city's historic district. Established by King Christian V in 1670, the square is anchored by the equestrian statue of its founder at its geometric center. It is surrounded by significant architectural landmarks, including the Royal Danish Theatre, the Hotel d'Angleterre, and the Charlottenborg Palace. The square underwent a massive restoration concluded in 2019 to integrate modern transport infrastructure while preserving its 17th-century layout. The central garden area, known as Krinsen, features a circular path and traditional linden trees. During the winter months, the square functions as an outdoor ice skating rink. It serves as the primary meeting point between the walking street Strøget and the harbor district of Nyhavn. The square is paved with granite cobblestones reflecting the city's maritime history.
At the base of the equestrian statue of Christian V, looking toward the Hotel d'Angleterre.
Visit the square in late November or December to experience the traditional Christmas market and seasonal ice rink.
Walk across the square toward the Nyhavn canal for the best view of the historic colorful harbor houses.
Check the schedule of the Royal Danish Theatre located on the square for evening performances.
Avoid dining at the immediate tourist-heavy restaurants directly facing the square if seeking authentic local cuisine.
The outdoor ice skating rink is only operational during the winter season.
