Nyhavn travel guide

Nyhavn, one of Copenhagen's most iconic locations, is a waterfront district famous for its colorful 17th-century townhouses and historical wooden ships.

This distinct area was constructed by King Christian V from 1670 to 1673 as a commercial port where ships from all over the world would dock. The area was bustling with sailors, ladies of pleasure, pubs, and alehouses.

Over time, Nyhavn evolved from a seedy port area to a respectable part of the city. The southern side of the canal, known as the 'sunny side', was popular among the wealthier class, featuring elegant mansions, while the 'shady side' was home to the working class.

Nyhavn's vibrant atmosphere and historic charm have always attracted creative minds. The famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen lived here for over 20 years and wrote several of his renowned fairy tales in these residences.

Today, Nyhavn is a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike, offering an array of restaurants, pubs, and cafes, as well as canal tours and breathtaking views.

Located in the dynamic Copenhagen Municipality, the popular Nyhavn is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of København or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Denmark.

København is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, København offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in København and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Christiania, Amalienborg Palace, The Little Mermaid, The Round Tower, and City Hall Square.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, København has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in København, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Denmark!

Nyhavn is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in København, Denmark. If you're flying in, Copenhagen Airport is approximately 4.7 miles (7.6 km) away from København. From there, you can easily reach Nyhavn by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in København, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Nyhavn, which is located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Nyhavn, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is K, Nyhavn, 1051 København, Denmark, Denmark.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Nyhavn!

To truly enjoy your visit to Nyhavn, joining a tour that features this popular canal in København is highly recommended. As one of Denmark's most iconic attractions, Nyhavn draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Nyhavn starting at just 5.09 EUR below.

The best time to explore Nyhavn, Copenhagen's iconic waterfront, depends largely on your preference for weather and crowd levels. Spring (April to June) is a beautiful time to visit, with mild weather and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom and the outdoor seating at Nyhavn's numerous restaurants is irresistible. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season. The weather is warm and the long days (up to 17 hours of daylight) provide ample opportunity for sightseeing. Nyhavn's vibrant summer scene, with live music and the annual Jazz Festival, is truly captivating. However, crowds are larger and prices tend to be higher. Autumn (September to November) is quieter, with fewer tourists and a pleasantly mild climate. Winter (December to March) offers a unique experience with the Christmas market transforming Nyhavn into a festive wonderland. However, daylight hours are short, and it can be quite chilly. Regardless of the season, a visit to Nyhavn promises a memorable experience.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Nyhavn and Denmark's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Copenhagen Airport and the city of København, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Denmark cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in København and beyond.

Conveniently explore Nyhavn and plenty more captivating attractions in København by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Nyhavn and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that København has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Nyhavn below.

Aside from Nyhavn, København is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around København, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Christiania, Amalienborg Palace, and The Little Mermaid.

Christiania is a bucket-list park and top attraction in København, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 32,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Christiania is Bådsmandsstræde 43, 1407 København K, Denmark.

Another appreciated attraction in København is Amalienborg Palace. Like Christiania, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 26,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Amalienborg Slotsplads, 1257 København K, Denmark.

The Little Mermaid is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of København. This establishment and top attraction in København has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 24,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of København below.