Nyhavn
Ideal: Ideal for first-time Copenhagen visitors, photography, and city atmosphere.
The canal was dug between 1670 and 1673 by Swedish prisoners of war, with the aim of bringing cargo ships directly into the city. For centuries this was not a tourist spot but a rough sailors' quarter full of taverns and brothels; it only gained its reputation in the 1980s. Hans Christian Andersen lived in three separate houses on the canal and wrote his first fairy tales at number 20. The oldest building, number 9, dates from 1681.
Did you know?
Did Hans Christian Andersen live here?
Yes, in three different houses — numbers 20, 67 and 18 — for around 20 years in total. He wrote early tales such as The Tinderbox and The Princess and the Pea at number 20.
Why are the houses painted in those colours?
Founded in the 17th century, the harbour was long a district of sailors, taverns and tattoo parlours. The vivid colours came later, restored to a historic palette when the area was renewed in the 1970s.
What are the ships in the canal?
The historic wooden vessels moored along the quay are not museum pieces but preserved working ships. Some still sail and take part in summer voyages from Copenhagen.
Why go?
- To see Copenhagen's most iconic canal view
- For colourful historic houses and harbour atmosphere
- To start a city walk with a pleasant, photogenic stop
Travel tip
Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and get better photos.
