Hans Christian Andersen's Copenhagen (Self Guided), Copenhagen
Before Disney glamorized fairy tales, Hans Christian Andersen was the original master of childhood magic. Best known for stories like The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and Thumbelina, Andersen essentially built the foundation of fairy-tale literature—dark undertones and all...
Born in 1805 in Odense, in the middle of the country, Andersen grew up in poverty, the son of a shoemaker and a washerwoman. His childhood was marked by hardship, imagination, and an early obsession with the theater. At 14, he moved to Copenhagen hoping to become an actor or singer. Those dreams didn’t pan out, but they led him to writing, where he eventually found his true calling—after facing plenty of rejection and ridicule, of course.
Despite early criticism, Andersen’s fairy tales gained worldwide fame, thanks to their emotional depth, quirky characters, and honest reflection of life’s difficulties. His writing was more than whimsical—it was deeply personal and often autobiographical (except for the talking teapots). Copenhagen became the heart of his creative life. He lived in several places around the city, especially along the colorful waterfront of New Harbor, where he rented multiple homes over the years.
Copenhagen still proudly celebrates Andersen’s legacy. From statues and museums to plaques and themed cafés, the city is basically one big tribute to the author. The famous Little Mermaid statue at the harbor (yes, the one people keep climbing on) is a key landmark. A visit to King’s Garden offers a chance to take selfies with his bronze likeness, while Tivoli Gardens features the Andersen Fairy-Tale House—an interactive dive into his imaginative world.
Other Andersen-themed attractions include his first humble home at Vestergade No. 18, the Round Tower that inspired his writing, and the Stork Fountain at Amagertorv Square—a nod to one of his lesser-known stories. At the Northern Store, “The Attic Room” recreates one of his living spaces, complete with creaky charm. Meanwhile, the Royal Danish Theatre stands as a symbol of Andersen’s full-circle journey: once a young singer, he later watched his own works performed on its grand stage.
In the end, Andersen’s life was a rags-to-riches saga filled with persistence, heartbreak, and literary brilliance. His stories—translated into over 120 languages—remain timeless, and Copenhagen continues to honor its most poetic son, proving that fairy tales never really go out of style.
So, grab your curiosity (and maybe an umbrella, too— because it’s Denmark), and join us on a walk through the poetic streets of the capital, where Andersen’s legacy is still alive and storytelling is always in season.
Born in 1805 in Odense, in the middle of the country, Andersen grew up in poverty, the son of a shoemaker and a washerwoman. His childhood was marked by hardship, imagination, and an early obsession with the theater. At 14, he moved to Copenhagen hoping to become an actor or singer. Those dreams didn’t pan out, but they led him to writing, where he eventually found his true calling—after facing plenty of rejection and ridicule, of course.
Despite early criticism, Andersen’s fairy tales gained worldwide fame, thanks to their emotional depth, quirky characters, and honest reflection of life’s difficulties. His writing was more than whimsical—it was deeply personal and often autobiographical (except for the talking teapots). Copenhagen became the heart of his creative life. He lived in several places around the city, especially along the colorful waterfront of New Harbor, where he rented multiple homes over the years.
Copenhagen still proudly celebrates Andersen’s legacy. From statues and museums to plaques and themed cafés, the city is basically one big tribute to the author. The famous Little Mermaid statue at the harbor (yes, the one people keep climbing on) is a key landmark. A visit to King’s Garden offers a chance to take selfies with his bronze likeness, while Tivoli Gardens features the Andersen Fairy-Tale House—an interactive dive into his imaginative world.
Other Andersen-themed attractions include his first humble home at Vestergade No. 18, the Round Tower that inspired his writing, and the Stork Fountain at Amagertorv Square—a nod to one of his lesser-known stories. At the Northern Store, “The Attic Room” recreates one of his living spaces, complete with creaky charm. Meanwhile, the Royal Danish Theatre stands as a symbol of Andersen’s full-circle journey: once a young singer, he later watched his own works performed on its grand stage.
In the end, Andersen’s life was a rags-to-riches saga filled with persistence, heartbreak, and literary brilliance. His stories—translated into over 120 languages—remain timeless, and Copenhagen continues to honor its most poetic son, proving that fairy tales never really go out of style.
So, grab your curiosity (and maybe an umbrella, too— because it’s Denmark), and join us on a walk through the poetic streets of the capital, where Andersen’s legacy is still alive and storytelling is always in season.
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Hans Christian Andersen's Copenhagen Map
Guide Name: Hans Christian Andersen's Copenhagen
Guide Location: Denmark » Copenhagen (See other walking tours in Copenhagen)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Author: EmmaS
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Denmark » Copenhagen (See other walking tours in Copenhagen)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Author: EmmaS
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Hans Christian Andersen Statue
- H. C. Andersen Fairy-Tale House
- Vestergade No 18 – H. C. Andersen's Former Residence
- Round Tower (Rundetarn)
- Stork Fountain
- Magasin du Nord (The Attic Room)
- Royal Danish Theatre (Kongelige Teater)
- New Harbor (Nyhavn)
1) Hans Christian Andersen Statue
Right in the beating heart of Copenhagen, perched like a literary lighthouse in City Hall Square, sits Hans Christian Andersen. Sculpted in bronze in 1965 by Henry Luckow-Nielsen, this statue isn’t just casually hanging out—it’s strategically facing H.C. Andersens Boulevard.
The placement of the statue is symbolic, with Andersen casting a wistful gaze toward Tivoli Gardens, the whimsical amusement park that may or may not have inspired some of his magical stories.
The statue itself is a full-on cultural power move. Andersen’s pose—book in his lap—is casual, sure, but also deeply photogenic, making him perhaps the most approachable celebrity in Denmark. So many enthusiastic people have climbed up him over the years to take a photo that the poor guy’s knee is now smooth-polished shinier than a new krone.
And because this is Denmark, land of design and digital-savvy thinkers, there's even a QR code at the base, allowing visitors to engage further. Scan it and—voilà !—you're transported into Andersen’s interactive world through a short video exploring the life and works of Denmark's most celebrated son.
So, ultimately, it's more than just bronze—but legacy cast in metal, humor, and heart.
The placement of the statue is symbolic, with Andersen casting a wistful gaze toward Tivoli Gardens, the whimsical amusement park that may or may not have inspired some of his magical stories.
The statue itself is a full-on cultural power move. Andersen’s pose—book in his lap—is casual, sure, but also deeply photogenic, making him perhaps the most approachable celebrity in Denmark. So many enthusiastic people have climbed up him over the years to take a photo that the poor guy’s knee is now smooth-polished shinier than a new krone.
And because this is Denmark, land of design and digital-savvy thinkers, there's even a QR code at the base, allowing visitors to engage further. Scan it and—voilà !—you're transported into Andersen’s interactive world through a short video exploring the life and works of Denmark's most celebrated son.
So, ultimately, it's more than just bronze—but legacy cast in metal, humor, and heart.
2) H. C. Andersen Fairy-Tale House
Just a skip away from Copenhagen’s City Hall Square and the ever-whimsical Tivoli Gardens, step right up to the Hans Christian Andersen Fairy-Tale House. This is where cobblestones meet fairy dust, and the world's most beloved storyteller gets his time in the spotlight—with just a dash of Ripley’s “Believe It or Not!” weirdness for flavor.
Think of this place as a time machine dressed as a storybook structured in two main parts. The first part focuses on Andersen’s real life. It details his upbringing and modest beginnings in Odense, followed by a move to Copenhagen, and his globe-trotting adventures with all the drama in between (rejections, fame, a few heartbreaks, rinse and repeat). This section spills the tea on the man behind the magic, contextualizing the origins of his inspirations and providing insight into his character and experiences.
Then—the second part—plunges you into the fairy tales themselves. "The Little Mermaid," "Thumbelina," "The Ugly Duckling," "The Steadfast Tin Soldier"—they're all here, brought to life with lights, sounds, and even smells. (Yes, your nose is now part of the experience, too.) Push a button, and storytime becomes showtime, complete with multilingual narration on oversized story cards and theatrical displays that would make even Andersen raise an eyebrow.
You can also check out the rare Andersen autograph manuscript. And to further enhance the experience, there are engaging live storytelling sessions. If you prefer something Instagrammable, snap a pic with the man himself—or at least his eerily lifelike model.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to walk straight into a fairy tale and maybe walk out with a selfie next to a literary legend, this is your spot. End of tale. Or is it just the beginning?
Tip:
If you want more bang for your krone, combo tickets are available for Ripley's, Guinness World Records, and The Mystic Exploratorium on Strøget—just a 15-minute stroll away. Even better, Copenhagen Card holders can get in free (you clever duckling, you!).
Think of this place as a time machine dressed as a storybook structured in two main parts. The first part focuses on Andersen’s real life. It details his upbringing and modest beginnings in Odense, followed by a move to Copenhagen, and his globe-trotting adventures with all the drama in between (rejections, fame, a few heartbreaks, rinse and repeat). This section spills the tea on the man behind the magic, contextualizing the origins of his inspirations and providing insight into his character and experiences.
Then—the second part—plunges you into the fairy tales themselves. "The Little Mermaid," "Thumbelina," "The Ugly Duckling," "The Steadfast Tin Soldier"—they're all here, brought to life with lights, sounds, and even smells. (Yes, your nose is now part of the experience, too.) Push a button, and storytime becomes showtime, complete with multilingual narration on oversized story cards and theatrical displays that would make even Andersen raise an eyebrow.
You can also check out the rare Andersen autograph manuscript. And to further enhance the experience, there are engaging live storytelling sessions. If you prefer something Instagrammable, snap a pic with the man himself—or at least his eerily lifelike model.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to walk straight into a fairy tale and maybe walk out with a selfie next to a literary legend, this is your spot. End of tale. Or is it just the beginning?
Tip:
If you want more bang for your krone, combo tickets are available for Ripley's, Guinness World Records, and The Mystic Exploratorium on Strøget—just a 15-minute stroll away. Even better, Copenhagen Card holders can get in free (you clever duckling, you!).
3) Vestergade No 18 – H. C. Andersen's Former Residence
Back on September 6th, 1819, a lanky 14-year-old named Hans Christian Andersen arrived in Copenhagen for the very first time. Dreams in tow and absolutely no idea where he’s going—his confidence was never in short supply. Andersen checked into the Gardergården inn at Vestergade 18, a humble little spot he stumbled upon by tailing some unsuspecting travelers through Vesterport. Bold move? Definitely. Budget-friendly? Temporarily. He bunked in a tiny room until his money ran out—which, let’s be honest, didn’t take long.
He didn’t know a soul in the city, but in true fairytale fashion, he believed—or knew, rather—that this bustling town would be the launchpad for his greatness. And it was.
Now, Vestergade, where Andersen first crash-landed, is no random stretch of road. Most of its buildings sprouted up after the big fire of 1795, but the street itself is a seasoned traveler—it dates back to the Middle Ages. Back then, it was the western artery, connecting Old Square (once the most important city square) to the Western City Gate.
In the 1930s through the '50s, city planners tried their best to modernize it—widen it, straighten it, make it less quirky. But locals and preservationists weren't having any of it. Thanks to their efforts (and some healthy civic stubbornness), Vestergade still holds onto its old-school charm and medieval wiggle. It’s a crooked little time capsule—just the way Hans would have remembered it.
He didn’t know a soul in the city, but in true fairytale fashion, he believed—or knew, rather—that this bustling town would be the launchpad for his greatness. And it was.
Now, Vestergade, where Andersen first crash-landed, is no random stretch of road. Most of its buildings sprouted up after the big fire of 1795, but the street itself is a seasoned traveler—it dates back to the Middle Ages. Back then, it was the western artery, connecting Old Square (once the most important city square) to the Western City Gate.
In the 1930s through the '50s, city planners tried their best to modernize it—widen it, straighten it, make it less quirky. But locals and preservationists weren't having any of it. Thanks to their efforts (and some healthy civic stubbornness), Vestergade still holds onto its old-school charm and medieval wiggle. It’s a crooked little time capsule—just the way Hans would have remembered it.
4) Round Tower (Rundetarn) (must see)
The Round Tower – Copenhagen’s answer to the question: “What if we made a giant architectural cinnamon roll… but for science?” This 17th-century spiral of brick in the heart of the Danish capital was “cooked up” by King Christian IV as part of his grand architectural project, originally intended as an observatory for the astronomer genius Tycho Brahe.
Back in the 1600s, Europe was getting really into astronomy. The Round Tower came with its own academic library, the Trinitatis Church, and a university chapel. The spiral ramp was so strong and wide that one could easily ride a horse or even drive a carriage up and down it. Apparently, some kings did actually, including Russian Tsar Peter the Great. Because stairs are for the common folk...
Now, if you're a fan of Hans Christian Andersen, you're gonna love this. The Round Tower pops up in “The Tinderbox.” That’s the one where a soldier meets a witch, climbs into a hollow tree, and finds three coin-filled vaults guarded by increasingly horrifying dogs. The biggest of which has eyes “the size of the Round Tower.” Subtle product placement, Hans...
Today, tourists from all corners of the Earth climb its 7.5-turn helical corridor just to snap that perfect panoramic selfie of the city. Because it’s not just a tower but a slow-motion ascent into Danish history, science, and surprisingly chic art installations.
As you wind your way up, your first pitstop is a gallery space featuring contemporary art that occasionally makes you question your understanding of gravity. Then it’s on to the bell loft – because what's a tower without a good ol’ bell room? And finally, the key attraction: the observatory itself, complete with a 360-degree view of Copenhagen. There’s even a thick glass platform near the top – for the brave souls who enjoy standing on transparent floors and peering into the abyss.
Tip:
There’s a cozy café nearby for a crowd-free coffee break, a blessedly clean toilet halfway up, and a souvenir shop with actual quality stuff – not your usual tourist tat. So take your time, bring your curiosity, and maybe leave the horse at home...
Back in the 1600s, Europe was getting really into astronomy. The Round Tower came with its own academic library, the Trinitatis Church, and a university chapel. The spiral ramp was so strong and wide that one could easily ride a horse or even drive a carriage up and down it. Apparently, some kings did actually, including Russian Tsar Peter the Great. Because stairs are for the common folk...
Now, if you're a fan of Hans Christian Andersen, you're gonna love this. The Round Tower pops up in “The Tinderbox.” That’s the one where a soldier meets a witch, climbs into a hollow tree, and finds three coin-filled vaults guarded by increasingly horrifying dogs. The biggest of which has eyes “the size of the Round Tower.” Subtle product placement, Hans...
Today, tourists from all corners of the Earth climb its 7.5-turn helical corridor just to snap that perfect panoramic selfie of the city. Because it’s not just a tower but a slow-motion ascent into Danish history, science, and surprisingly chic art installations.
As you wind your way up, your first pitstop is a gallery space featuring contemporary art that occasionally makes you question your understanding of gravity. Then it’s on to the bell loft – because what's a tower without a good ol’ bell room? And finally, the key attraction: the observatory itself, complete with a 360-degree view of Copenhagen. There’s even a thick glass platform near the top – for the brave souls who enjoy standing on transparent floors and peering into the abyss.
Tip:
There’s a cozy café nearby for a crowd-free coffee break, a blessedly clean toilet halfway up, and a souvenir shop with actual quality stuff – not your usual tourist tat. So take your time, bring your curiosity, and maybe leave the horse at home...
5) Stork Fountain
Copenhagen has no shortage of statues, but when it comes to fountains, it isn’t exactly “drowning” in them. This is why the Stork Fountain on Amager Square stands out like a bird in a bathhouse.
This eye-catching splash zone is set in stone—Italian granite, to be exact—surrounded by dignified old buildings, one of which has been standing there quietly since as far back as the year 1600.
Now, the fountain wasn’t just plopped there randomly. It was a silvery little gift to Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Louise for their 25th wedding anniversary. Unveiled in 1894, it is basically the royal equivalent of a really, really fancy anniversary card. With plumbing...
The design features three storks caught mid-flap, as if about to deliver... babies, if you believe Hans Christian Andersen’s iconic tale from 1838. Around their feet: decorative aquatic plants and cheeky bronze frogs perched on dock leaves, doing their best impression of water cannons.
For years, locals whispered that the birds might be, in fact, herons—scandal! But in 2008, the Danish Ornithological Society set the record straight: definitely storks. Case closed.
Another peculiar fact associated with this place is the midwife dance. Yes, that’s the thing. Since 1950, newly-minted Danish midwives have been celebrating their graduation by dancing, wading, and sometimes full-on splashing in the fountain. If you want to see it with your own eyes, show up in mid-summer, claim a table at a nearby café with a good view, and prepare for a delightfully soggy spectacle. Champagne optional.
This eye-catching splash zone is set in stone—Italian granite, to be exact—surrounded by dignified old buildings, one of which has been standing there quietly since as far back as the year 1600.
Now, the fountain wasn’t just plopped there randomly. It was a silvery little gift to Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Louise for their 25th wedding anniversary. Unveiled in 1894, it is basically the royal equivalent of a really, really fancy anniversary card. With plumbing...
The design features three storks caught mid-flap, as if about to deliver... babies, if you believe Hans Christian Andersen’s iconic tale from 1838. Around their feet: decorative aquatic plants and cheeky bronze frogs perched on dock leaves, doing their best impression of water cannons.
For years, locals whispered that the birds might be, in fact, herons—scandal! But in 2008, the Danish Ornithological Society set the record straight: definitely storks. Case closed.
Another peculiar fact associated with this place is the midwife dance. Yes, that’s the thing. Since 1950, newly-minted Danish midwives have been celebrating their graduation by dancing, wading, and sometimes full-on splashing in the fountain. If you want to see it with your own eyes, show up in mid-summer, claim a table at a nearby café with a good view, and prepare for a delightfully soggy spectacle. Champagne optional.
6) Magasin du Nord (The Attic Room)
Once upon a time – precisely in 1868 – two entrepreneurial Danes, Theodor Wessel and Emil Vett, opened a humble draper’s shop in Aarhus. Business boomed, and faster than you can say “Is that cashmere?”, they expanded to Copenhagen, setting up shop inside the swanky Hotel du Nord. Eventually, their fabric empire swallowed the hotel whole, and by 1879, the business took on its now-iconic name: Magasin du Nord – which is a fancier (French-style) rendition of “The Northern Department Store”.
By 1894, they went upscale: tearing down the hotel and its neighbor and building a grand, French Renaissance Revival palace of retail. It became the place to be dazzled by treasures from Paris, Berlin, London, and even Copenhagen’s own stylish exports. A kind of 19th-century Amazon Prime, only with chandeliers and better tailoring...
Today, Magasin du Nord is still going strong – five fabulous floors of fashion, flair, and other material delights. Women’s, men’s, kids’ clothes – you name it. Kitchen gadgets, tech toys, sporty gear, and luggage for your overly ambitious weekend plans – the list can go on. On the ground floor, you'll find perfumes, beauty brands, and enough designer bags to make your credit card nervous. Plus, two Joe & The Juice spots, just in case all that shopping makes you faint from the lack of kale.
And then, tucked away like a literary Easter egg, on the third floor, is Hans Christian Andersen’s attic room. That’s right, the fairy tale master himself lived up there as a 22-year-old, scribbling poems and probably wondering how to afford rent. You can visit the quaint little room (for free!) by wandering past his rather serious-looking portrait, through a meeting room (yes, it feels like trespassing), and voilà – you're in his tiny, poetic hideout. It's simple, yet a bit haunting. The place is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 1 to 5 pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.
Who knew retail therapy and literary history could go hand in hand?
By 1894, they went upscale: tearing down the hotel and its neighbor and building a grand, French Renaissance Revival palace of retail. It became the place to be dazzled by treasures from Paris, Berlin, London, and even Copenhagen’s own stylish exports. A kind of 19th-century Amazon Prime, only with chandeliers and better tailoring...
Today, Magasin du Nord is still going strong – five fabulous floors of fashion, flair, and other material delights. Women’s, men’s, kids’ clothes – you name it. Kitchen gadgets, tech toys, sporty gear, and luggage for your overly ambitious weekend plans – the list can go on. On the ground floor, you'll find perfumes, beauty brands, and enough designer bags to make your credit card nervous. Plus, two Joe & The Juice spots, just in case all that shopping makes you faint from the lack of kale.
And then, tucked away like a literary Easter egg, on the third floor, is Hans Christian Andersen’s attic room. That’s right, the fairy tale master himself lived up there as a 22-year-old, scribbling poems and probably wondering how to afford rent. You can visit the quaint little room (for free!) by wandering past his rather serious-looking portrait, through a meeting room (yes, it feels like trespassing), and voilà – you're in his tiny, poetic hideout. It's simple, yet a bit haunting. The place is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 1 to 5 pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.
Who knew retail therapy and literary history could go hand in hand?
7) Royal Danish Theatre (Kongelige Teater)
The Royal Danish Theatre is a place where Denmark brings the drama (in a good way). If you’re strolling through central Copenhagen, you are bound to spot this grand, palatial building that looks like it’s about to burst into opera, ballet, or Shakespeare at any moment.
Founded back in 1748, it started as the royal family’s personal cultural playground. The main building, known as the Old Stage, sits regally on King’s New Square. Matching its grand façade is the interior with its neoclassical opulence: red velvet, chandeliers, and plenty of gold leaf. Outside the main entrance are the statues of two literary big names: Adam Oehlenschläger, the Danish Golden Age poet and playwright, and Ludvig Holberg, once dubbed "the father of Danish literature".
But wait — there’s more drama across the canal! The new ultramodern Opera House (inaugurated in 2005), looking like a spaceship, and the Royal Danish Playhouse, a waterfront beauty with glass walls, sharp angles, and stunning harbor views, opened in 2008.
If you can’t get a ticket, no worries. There are guided tours of the Old Stage where you can sneak a peek behind the curtains, strut across the stage (try not to trip), and even step inside the royal box like you own the place. It’s surprisingly affordable and, yes, could easily be the highlight of your trip!
As a bonus, Hans Christian Andersen’s fans would be surprised to learn that at age 14, our favorite fairy-tale writer gave it a go here as an actor, singer, and dancer. Yes! Alas, it didn’t go well. His plays were rejected. His stage presence was questionable. But plot twist — a kind theater director sent him off to grammar school for five years, which later helped him get into university and, at long last, find his literary groove.
Moral of the story — a failed audition can be just a prequel to worldwide fame...
Founded back in 1748, it started as the royal family’s personal cultural playground. The main building, known as the Old Stage, sits regally on King’s New Square. Matching its grand façade is the interior with its neoclassical opulence: red velvet, chandeliers, and plenty of gold leaf. Outside the main entrance are the statues of two literary big names: Adam Oehlenschläger, the Danish Golden Age poet and playwright, and Ludvig Holberg, once dubbed "the father of Danish literature".
But wait — there’s more drama across the canal! The new ultramodern Opera House (inaugurated in 2005), looking like a spaceship, and the Royal Danish Playhouse, a waterfront beauty with glass walls, sharp angles, and stunning harbor views, opened in 2008.
If you can’t get a ticket, no worries. There are guided tours of the Old Stage where you can sneak a peek behind the curtains, strut across the stage (try not to trip), and even step inside the royal box like you own the place. It’s surprisingly affordable and, yes, could easily be the highlight of your trip!
As a bonus, Hans Christian Andersen’s fans would be surprised to learn that at age 14, our favorite fairy-tale writer gave it a go here as an actor, singer, and dancer. Yes! Alas, it didn’t go well. His plays were rejected. His stage presence was questionable. But plot twist — a kind theater director sent him off to grammar school for five years, which later helped him get into university and, at long last, find his literary groove.
Moral of the story — a failed audition can be just a prequel to worldwide fame...
8) New Harbor (Nyhavn) (must see)
New Harbor—with all its bright colors, wooden ships, and a dash of nautical nostalgia—is by far Copenhagen’s most photogenic waterfront. Here, 17th-century Danish townhouses line up like they’re auditioning for a postcard.
Built between 1670 and 1675 under the direction of King Christian V—using a workforce of Danish soldiers and captured Swedish war prisoners—New Harbor was designed to boost trade with the Dutch. In reality, however, it quickly became Copenhagen’s go-to district for beer, brawls, and brothels. Trade and trouble? Why not both?
In his turn, the famed Danish author Hans Christian Andersen also called New Harbor home for a whopping 18 years. He first moved into Number 20, the red house, in 1834. Then, he shuffled over to Number 18 and eventually spent his longest stretch lounging around Number 67 from 1848 to 1865. Basically, he was living that prime canal-side real estate life before it was cool.
After World War II, the harbor’s hustle slowed to a crawl, and the area nearly faded into obscurity. But the 1960s gave it a second act. In 1977, the Veteran Ship and Museum Harbor dropped anchor, and by 1980, the quay was pedestrianized—aka, turned into the selfie paradise and café haven we know today.
Take a stroll now, and you’ll spot all sorts of restored museum ships moored along the canal—each one with enough maritime drama to fill a Netflix series. At the far end of the harbor sits the Memorial Anchor, quietly honoring Danish sailors lost in World War II.
Wander a bit further south, and things take a modern turn. Jazz clubs, tattoo parlors, trendy cafés, and enough open-faced sandwiches to keep your Instagram busy for hours.
Tip:
If you're on a tight budget or just pretending to be Danish, skip the overpriced bar scene. Grab a beer or coffee from a convenience store, plop yourself down at the quayside, and soak in the view. For something classier, head to the Royal Playhouse at the far end—great drinks, decent prices, and panoramic views that will make your camera weep with joy.
And hey, if your feet are screaming for mercy, you can always hop on a boat tour right at the harbor entrance. One hour of effortless sightseeing and zero walking required.
Built between 1670 and 1675 under the direction of King Christian V—using a workforce of Danish soldiers and captured Swedish war prisoners—New Harbor was designed to boost trade with the Dutch. In reality, however, it quickly became Copenhagen’s go-to district for beer, brawls, and brothels. Trade and trouble? Why not both?
In his turn, the famed Danish author Hans Christian Andersen also called New Harbor home for a whopping 18 years. He first moved into Number 20, the red house, in 1834. Then, he shuffled over to Number 18 and eventually spent his longest stretch lounging around Number 67 from 1848 to 1865. Basically, he was living that prime canal-side real estate life before it was cool.
After World War II, the harbor’s hustle slowed to a crawl, and the area nearly faded into obscurity. But the 1960s gave it a second act. In 1977, the Veteran Ship and Museum Harbor dropped anchor, and by 1980, the quay was pedestrianized—aka, turned into the selfie paradise and café haven we know today.
Take a stroll now, and you’ll spot all sorts of restored museum ships moored along the canal—each one with enough maritime drama to fill a Netflix series. At the far end of the harbor sits the Memorial Anchor, quietly honoring Danish sailors lost in World War II.
Wander a bit further south, and things take a modern turn. Jazz clubs, tattoo parlors, trendy cafés, and enough open-faced sandwiches to keep your Instagram busy for hours.
Tip:
If you're on a tight budget or just pretending to be Danish, skip the overpriced bar scene. Grab a beer or coffee from a convenience store, plop yourself down at the quayside, and soak in the view. For something classier, head to the Royal Playhouse at the far end—great drinks, decent prices, and panoramic views that will make your camera weep with joy.
And hey, if your feet are screaming for mercy, you can always hop on a boat tour right at the harbor entrance. One hour of effortless sightseeing and zero walking required.
Walking Tours in Copenhagen, Denmark
Create Your Own Walk in Copenhagen
Creating your own self-guided walk in Copenhagen is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Little Mermaid Walking Tour
Back in the 18th century, Denmark was in the throes of an economic boom. Constructed during the reign of King Frederick V (hence the name), the district of Frederiksstaden attests to that with its beautiful architecture, measuring up to the projects from the same period in Berlin, Paris, and Vienna. This tour will guide you through the area's broad streets lined by bourgeois houses, mansions,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Latin Quarter Walking Tour
One of the most interesting, young-spirited neighborhoods of Denmark's capital, the Latin Quarter is well known for its hangout spots, alternative shopping, and 18th-century architecture.
Back in the Middle Ages, the area surrounding Our Lady's Square (“Frue Plads” in Danish), right in the heart of it, was considered a “ray of light” in the overall darkness of those times. A... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Back in the Middle Ages, the area surrounding Our Lady's Square (“Frue Plads” in Danish), right in the heart of it, was considered a “ray of light” in the overall darkness of those times. A... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Copenhagen Introduction Walking Tour
The Danish capital Copenhagen is a fairy tale of a city, full of peculiarities. Its name – derived from the Danish words for merchant ("køpmann") and harbor ("havn") – reflects the city's origin as a place of commerce by the sea. A humble fishing village, established in the 10th century AD, some hundred years later it emerged as a town after Bishop Absalon, recognized... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Castle Island (Slotsholmen) Walking Tour
Traditionally seen as the birthplace of Copenhagen, Castle Island (Slotsholmen) gave rise to the Danish capital with a small fortress built on it in the 12th century AD. Since the Middle Ages, this area, also known as the "Island of Power," has been the center of Denmark's government. It houses several prominent landmarks that played significant roles in the country's history.
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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Copenhagen Shopping: 16 Distinctively Denmark Things to Buy
Denmark is renowned for simple, industrial and functional design, as well as bohemian and everyday fashion-wear for the individual urban living. The capital Copenhagen, home to Copenhagen Fashion Week twice a year and biannual INDEX: Design to Improve Life - the world’s biggest design awards, is...
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