Nyhavn

Overview

Nyhavn is Copenhagen's most iconic and photographed waterfront area. Lined with brightly coloured 17th-century townhouses and historic wooden ships, this canal district buzzes with lively cafes and a vibrant maritime atmosphere.

Highlights

• Colourful Townhouses: Perfect backdrop for photos, especially the oldest house at No. 9.
• Historic Ships: A collection of beautifully preserved vintage vessels docked in the canal.
• Andersen's Homes: See numbers 18, 20, and 67, where the famous fairy-tale author Hans Christian Andersen once lived.

History

Originally excavated by Swedish prisoners of war in the 1670s, Nyhavn was a notorious commercial port filled with sailors, alehouses, and ladies of the night. Today, it has been beautifully restored into the city's premier entertainment district.

Visitor Tips

• Best time to visit: Sunset or golden hour for the best lighting on the colourful facades.
• Dining: Restaurants here are popular and can be pricey; it's also a great place to sit on the quay with a takeaway beer.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.
• Tours: A major departure point for the city's classic canal tours.