Nyhavn ()
Billing itself as the entertainment district in Copenhagen is the colorful waterfront neighborhood of Nyhavn. Meaning “new harbor” in Danish, Nyhavn is the part of Copenhagen everyone must spend some time in—not just for Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue—but also for a vibe that can’t be experienced anywhere else in Denmark. If you happen to visit this corner of Scandinavia, get up close with this trendy area.
Your bucket list
During your stay in Denmark’s capital, the sites you have surely crossed off your bucket list are Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Amalienborg, Strøget and the Little Mermaid. However, since Nyhavn is on the water, a must-do activity is taking a canal tour to see the best of Copenhagen—Stromma Canal Tours is a highly recommended company that charges around 99 Danish krone (13 euros) for a one-hour canal ride. While on the water, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the restaurant on a boat, Vandvid. Beautifully located on the Copenhagen harbor, you’ll get an intimate feel of waterfront dining with, of course, delicious food. The Veteran Ship and Museum Harbor and Nyhavn 18, where Hans Christian Andersen once lived, are other popular highlights.
Known as “the longest bar in Scandinavia,” Nyhavn is home to some of Copenhagen’s best bars and restaurants. Nyhavnskroen is the answer to the question, “Where should we eat dinner tonight?” This cozy restaurant features traditional Danish cuisine, and some dishes you can expect to find on the menu are fish fillets with fries, marinated herring and Bikesmad—Scandinavian hash. However, to keep with the nautical theme, Cap Horn is the place to be. Though known for its seafood, this restaurant makes the best roast beef sandwiches. For those who like to enjoy the nightlife, head to Fisken Pub, a quirky, nautical-themed bar. Other popular bars in the area include McJoy’s Coice, NyhavnC and Nyhavn 17.
Fun facts about Nyhavn
Though Copenhagen has its fair share of interesting history, Nyhavn provides some of its own fun tidbits:
King Christian V brought Nyhavn to life by using Swedish prisoners to dig up the canal.
In its early days, this area was famous for its beer, sailors and the debauchery they brought.
House number 9 is the oldest one, dating back to 1681.
Hans Christian Andersen moved around during his time here. Before moving to building number 18, he lived in building number 67.
The best sunsets can be found at Nyhavn.
To get a glimpse at the lives of the rich, pay a visit to the district’s south side, where mansions dot the canal.
The best time to visit Copenhagen is May through August. Although it is high tourist season, that is when the weather is at its best.
You can find the best Hummer (lobster) at Nyhavn 63A.
Denmark uses the Danish krone, which is a bit more expensive than the euro.
