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Places of interest #2 in Copenhagen

Nyhavn

4.7 · 27,797 reviews
Lively, crowded, and historically charming
Nyhavn, 1051 København K, Denmark
Interesting facts
1

The canal was dug by Swedish prisoners of war between 1670 and 1673.

2

House number 9, the oldest building, has been decorated in the same style for over 350 years.

3

The memorial anchor at the end of the canal is a monument dedicated to the more than 1,700 Danish sailors who lost their lives in World War II.

4

Nyhavn was once notorious for its rowdy taverns and sailors' dens before undergoing extensive renovation in the 1960s and 70s.

5

The canal serves as the primary gateway for classic wooden ship tourism in Denmark.

Overview

Nyhavn is a 17th-century waterfront, canal, and entertainment district in central Copenhagen, characterized by its brightly colored 17th- and early 18th-century townhouses. Originally a busy commercial port for ships from all over the world, the canal now hosts wooden museum ships and tour boats. Danish author Hans Christian Andersen lived at numbers 20, 67, and 18 during various periods of his life. The area features a mix of traditional Danish eateries and modern bars concentrated along the north side of the canal. The oldest house in the district is number 9, dating back to 1661, which has remained largely unchanged since its construction. Today, the district serves as a central hub for canal tours and maritime history displays.

Photo spot

The bridge at the end of the canal looking back towards the houses, capturing the symmetry of the colorful buildings.

Insider tips

Walk along the sunny north side of the canal for the best views of the colorful facades.

Avoid the main waterfront restaurants for dinner if you are looking for high-quality, local cuisine, as these are primarily tourist-oriented.

Bring a windbreaker even in summer, as the waterfront area can be significantly cooler than the city center.

What to avoid

Dining at the restaurants directly lining the canal, which are widely considered overpriced traps compared to eateries in the nearby inner city.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning or late evening during the summer months to avoid extreme pedestrian crowding.
Address
Nyhavn, 1051 København K, Denmark
55.680, 12.591
Get directions
Details
Architectural Style17th-century gabled townhouses
Historical SignificanceFormer home of Hans Christian Andersen

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late evening during the summer months to avoid extreme pedestrian crowding..

The bridge at the end of the canal looking back towards the houses, capturing the symmetry of the colorful buildings.

Close by you'll find Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Palace, Kongens Nytorv.