Nyhavn
★ 4.7🇩🇰 CopenhagenSuggested visit 1-2 hoursBest season May to September, when restaurants and boats are running
City walkPhoto spotCanal
A 17th-century canal harbour lined with colourful gabled houses, the most recognisable view in Copenhagen.
Overview
Dug in 1673, Nyhavn was a busy harbour where sailors gathered, and Hans Christian Andersen lived at numbers 18 and 20 while writing his early fairy tales. Colourful 17th and 18th-century gabled houses line both sides, wooden sailing boats moor along the quay, and in summer open-air restaurants and street performers fill the waterfront. Canal boats leave from here to explore the harbour and canal network.
History
Dug in 1673 by Swedish prisoners of war to link the harbour to the city centre, it became a commercial and sailors' district and was gradually turned over to tourism and dining in the late 20th century.
Highlights
- •The row of colourful gabled houses
- •The plaques at Andersen's former homes
- •Canal boat tours
- •Wooden sailing boats and open-air restaurants
Practical tips
- •Early morning gives the best light and fewest people
- •Waterside restaurants are pricey — check the menu first
Practical information
- Best time
- May-September
- Tickets
- The quay is free; canal tours about DKK 100
- Opening hours
- The quay is open all day
- Local food
- Danish open sandwiches, Danish pastry, herring
- Getting around
- Five minutes on foot from Kongens Nytorv metro.
- Visa
- A Schengen visa is required; apply about one month in advance.
Traveller reviews
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