Nyhavn is a 17th-century waterfront, canal and entertainment district in Copenhagen, Denmark. Stretching from Kongens Nytorv to the harbour front just south of the Royal Playhouse, it is lined by brightly coloured 17th and early 18th century townhouses and bars, cafes and restaurants.
20 pictures of Nyhavn from K B, Adrian Cuj, Nick Karvounis and other travelers
To reach Nyhavn, travelers can fly into Copenhagen Airport and then take the Metro to Kongens Nytorv station, which is just a short walk away from the waterfront. Alternatively, if you're already in the city center, you can easily walk or cycle to Nyhavn from popular spots like Strøget, the pedestrian shopping street, or Amalienborg Palace.
To make the most of your visit, it's essential to book a few things in advance. Although Nyhavn itself is free to explore, consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card, which grants you free access to over 80 attractions and museums, as well as unlimited use of public transportation. Additionally, if you plan to visit the nearby Tivoli Gardens, pre-book your tickets online to avoid long queues.
While visiting Nyhavn doesn't incur any specific costs, you should budget for meals, accommodations, and any additional activities you may wish to experience. Copenhagen can be a pricey city, but you can find affordable options if you plan ahead.
Some of the best things to do in Nyhavn include taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, admiring the colorful townhouses, and enjoying the lively street performances. Don't miss the opportunity to take a scenic canal tour, which offers a unique perspective of Copenhagen's architecture and history. Additionally, you can visit the nearby Amalienborg Palace and the Little Mermaid statue, both of which are within walking distance of Nyhavn.
When it comes to dining, Nyhavn offers a diverse range of options. For traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), head to Restaurant Heering, which offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious, locally-sourced ingredients. For a more casual meal, try Cap Horn, which serves organic dishes and has a lovely outdoor seating area. For a fine dining experience, consider dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Studio, located at The Standard.
For accommodations, consider staying at the 71 Nyhavn Hotel, which is housed in two converted warehouses and offers stunning views of the harbor. Alternatively, you can opt for the budget-friendly Generator Hostel Copenhagen or the stylish and more moderately-priced Hotel SP34.
Off the beaten path: For an unusual travel experience, try exploring the nearby district of Christianshavn. This neighborhood, often referred to as "Little Amsterdam," boasts picturesque canals, charming houseboats, and the alternative community of Freetown Christiania. Christiania is a self-governed, car-free area with colorful murals, unique architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. While visiting, be sure to respect the community's rules and enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
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🏘️ Town spots 🗼 Landmark spots 🏞️ Waterway spots 🌉 Bridge spotsTake a boat ride along the canals: Nyhavn Canal is the starting point for many of Copenhagen's canal boat tours.
Eat by the canal: Nyhavn's many terraces and restaurants make it one of the best places to eat in Copenhagen.
You'll also find cafes dating back to the 17th century!
Get a tattoo: Strange as it may seem, Nyhavn is the area with the most tattoo studios in Copenhagen.
If you're planning to have an unforgettable memory of Denmark, this is the right place to do it.
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