There are places in Copenhagen that feel like stepping straight into a storybook. Nyhavn is one of them. The moment you arrive, you are greeted by rows of colourful houses reflecting in the water, old wooden ships swaying gently in the canal and a buzz of life that drifts between nostalgia and pure hygge. Nyhavn is the kind of place where the past whispers from every crooked window frame while the present invites you to linger just a little longer.
If you want to understand Copenhagen, this is the perfect place to begin.
Where to Find Nyhavn
Nyhavn sits right in the heart of Copenhagen. It stretches from the wide square of Kongens Nytorv straight to the harbour. The canal forms a natural gateway between the sea and the old city, which is exactly why it was created in the first place.
Most visitors arrive by walking from Kongens Nytorv metro station. It takes only a few minutes, but the shift from the busy square to the relaxed waterfront feels almost like stepping into a new world. You can also arrive the charming way by taking the harbour bus and stepping off right at the canal.
A Short Introduction to Nyhavn’s Famous Past
Nyhavn is loved today for its beauty, but its history is much more rugged and wonderfully dramatic.
Its beginnings as a working harbour
The canal was dug in the early 1670s during the reign of King Christian the Fifth. Swedish prisoners of war helped to dig the waterway that connected the open sea with the very centre of Copenhagen. For centuries the canal served as a busy harbour filled with merchant ships, cargo, fishermen, workshops and taverns. It was a place full of noise and stories, and many of the buildings along the quayside still tell that tale.
One of the oldest houses in the city stands right here. Nyhavn number nine was built in 1681 and is still beautifully intact.
A sailors’ haven and a legendary tattoo story
Nyhavn soon became a melting pot for sailors arriving from every corner of the world. They came for rest, for music, for beer, and of course for tattoos. Deep in the basement of Nyhavn seventeen you can still find Tattoo Ole, considered the oldest continuously operating tattoo shop in existence. For more than a century sailors passed through the doors to mark their travels on their skin. Even Danish royalty ended up in the chair. It is one of the most fascinating cultural footprints in the canal’s history.
A neighbourhood reborn
As shipping changed and modern harbour facilities grew elsewhere, Nyhavn slowly lost its role as a working port. By the middle of the twentieth century the area had become run down and much less glamorous. Some thought it might even be demolished.
Thankfully a group of passionate locals stepped in during the 1960s. Their mission was to preserve this unique part of the city. Through their efforts the houses were restored, old ships were brought back to the canal and the area slowly transformed. By the late 1970s and early 1980s Nyhavn emerged again as a lively, colourful and welcoming place. Today it stands as one of Copenhagen’s most iconic sights.
What to Do in Nyhavn
Nyhavn offers much more than a pretty view. Here is how to truly enjoy it.
Traditional Danish food
If you want to taste Copenhagen, smørrebrød is the way to do it. These beautifully layered open sandwiches are a cornerstone of Danish cuisine, and Nyhavn is home to some excellent places that serve them.
- Hyttefadet:
This excellent restaurant offers classic smørrebrød in a cosy and traditional atmosphere. Open Mon-Sun and is located at Nyhavn 25. - Told and Snaps:
Another favourite for a lunch stop with beer and a true Danish feel. Find this local spot on a little side street from Nyhavn. It is open during midday hours from Mon-Sun and located at Toldbodgade 2. - Oranje or Judie:
If you want something charmingly different, these restaurants serve food aboard their moored boats which gives you the unique experience of dining right on the water. Find Oranje at Nyhavn 65a and Judie at Nyhavn 26 and both open from Mon-Sun.
And of course you can never go wrong with a Danish hot dog. Sausage stands around Copenhagen have been beloved since 1921 and grabbing one near the water is almost a local ritual. You can find a hot dog stand in front of Nyhavn at Kongens Nytorv or along the stretch of the canal with the colorful houses.
Waffles and ice cream at Vaffelbageren
- Vaffelbageren:
This family owned shop has stood at the canal since 1953 and is known for its heavenly waffle cones and Belgian style waffles made fresh on old fashioned irons. When the scent of warm batter drifts through the air it is almost impossible to resist.
Located at Nyhavn 49 and open from Mon-Sun.
Wine and cocktails
If your idea of danish ‘hygge’ involves a drink with a view you are in the right place.
- Den Vandrette:
For wine lovers this place offers a relaxed and stylish atmosphere. You can add the option of enjoying some platters of tapas while sipping your delicious wine.
Located around the corner at Havnegade 53 and open Monday through Saturday. - The Union Local:
If you prefer cocktails walk up and grab a table where the drinks are creative and the mood is vibrant.
Located at Lille Strandstræde 16 and open from Wednesday to Saturday.
Boat tours on the canal
A visit to Nyhavn is not complete without seeing Copenhagen from the water. Stromma offers classic canal tours departing right from Nyhavn. The journey takes you under bridges, past castles, modern architecture and hidden corners that you simply cannot see from land. It is one of the most peaceful and beautiful ways to explore the city.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg
If you want a cultural break step inside Kunsthal Charlottenborg at Nyhavn two. This art centre is one of the most important contemporary art spaces in Denmark. It also houses the Danish Art Library. Entry is 90 DKK and offers an enriching contrast to the outdoor life of the canal.
The museum is located at Nyhavn 2.
Christmas Market
From November and into December the canal becomes wrapped in twinkling lights and wooden stalls. The Nyhavn Christmas Market is full of seasonal treats, warm drinks and handmade gifts. It usually ends a few days before Christmas which makes it a lovely early festive experience.
Explore magical Nyhavn with us!
Nyhavn is beautiful on its own but it becomes even more fascinating when you hear the full story behind the colourful facades.
On our Copenhagen Sightseeing Tour and our full day Perfect Day in Copenhagen: Hygge & Highlights Tour we walk you straight into the history that shaped the canal. Tales of sailors, merchants and tattoo artists come to life, while we reveal the secret behind the many different colored houses and the stunning historical architecture. Dreaming of a beautiful travel photo? We will help you find the best spots and corners to capture the perfect colorful background!
Even on our Bohemian Life & History of Christianshavn Tour you get to enjoy Nyhavn from a different perspective on the water bus. It is a wonderful way to see the canal from a distance and understand how it fits into the larger harbour.
With us Nyhavn becomes more than a postcard. It becomes a living chapter in Copenhagen’s story.
Nyhavn is a place where history and joy meet. You can wander slowly along the water, taste the best of Danish comfort food, admire centuries old ships, explore art, sip wine and sail through the city. It is a world of charm wrapped into one colourful canal.
Come explore it with us. Nyhavn has so many stories to share.
Written by Sandra
