Nyhavn, Copenhagen
Nyhavn's candy-coloured 17th-century townhouses reflected in the canal water is the image that defines Copenhagen for the world — and it earns every postcard. Grab a cold Carlsberg from a harbourside kiosk, watch the tall ships rock gently at their moorings, and feel the city's easy, unhurried joy wash over you.
The canal that launched a thousand postcards
Nyhavn — literally 'New Harbour' — was built in 1671 to connect the city centre to the sea, and for centuries it was a rowdy sailors' quarter packed with taverns and tattoo parlours. Hans Christian Andersen lived at number 20, 67 and 18 at different points in his life, writing some of his most beloved fairy tales while listening to the creak of rigging outside his window.
Today the northern, sunny side of the canal is lined with outdoor restaurant tables from March through October, making it the warmest and most sociable place in the city to linger over a smørrebrød lunch. The southern quay stays quieter and is perfect for a slow stroll past the historic wooden vessels moored along the water.
Making the most of your visit
Arrive early in the morning before the tour groups descend and you'll have the pastel facades almost to yourself — the low Nordic light at 7 a.m. turns the water a deep amber and the reflections are extraordinary. Return at dusk when the string lights flicker on above the restaurant terraces and the whole canal glows.
From Nyhavn you can hop on a Canal Tours Copenhagen boat for a 1-hour loop that takes in the Little Mermaid statue, the Opera House and Christiansborg Palace from the water — one of the best-value ways to orientate yourself in the city.
More of Denmark
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Denmark →
