Planning a trip to Copenhagen gets easier when one spot covers food, sights, and stories. Nyhavn does that in a single stroll. You can arrive by metro at Kongens Nytorv and reach the canal in minutes. From there, you can find everything from restaurants and shops to boat tours and museums. Want to know the best way to enjoy Nyhavn? Start here with us! Learn a few fun historical facts, what Nyhavn means in English, and where to go for the best food, coffees, tours, and shopping. Let’s dive into Nyhavn’s colorful stories that even drew H. C. Andersen in!
Key takeaways
- Nyhavn is a 17th century canal with colorful townhouses and historic ships. The name means “New Harbour” in English, and the canal runs about 450 meters.
- After being built in the 1670s, Nyhavn became popular among Danes, even drawing H. C. Andersen, who lived at numbers 20, 67, and 18.
- Visitors can enjoy canal tours, walking along The Harbour Circle, or shop at the Royal Copenhagen Flagship store nearby.
- Hyttefadet, Told & Snaps, Restaurant Koefoed, Original Coffee Bredgade, and Coffee Collective Bernikow are the best restaurants and cafes in Nyhavn.
What is Nyhavn?
Nyhavn is a historic canal and waterfront street in the heart of Copenhagen. The Danish name “Nyhavn” translates to “New Harbour” because the canal was built to link the city center with the sea, acting as a new harbour. Today, people visit for food, coffee, photos, and boat tours that pass well known sights such as the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg. It also connects the square of Kongens Nytorv with the inner harbor near the Royal Danish Playhouse. Along the 450 meter canal, rows of 17th and 18th century townhouses line both sides. Many of them hold restaurants and cafes for many visitors to enjoy. In addition, classic wooden ships rest in the canal and set the maritime tone.
Historical Transformation of Nyhavn
Now that you are a bit more familiar with what Nyhavn is, let’s look at its historical background. Back in the 1670s, Danish workers dug the canal under King Christian V, approximately between 1670 and 1675. The purpose was to bring ships closer to the market square at Kongens Nytorv, making it a new harbour for the city. Once built, activity grew fast, and sailors filled pubs and alehouses. The street developed a rough edge for many years, but as time passed, the buildings rose in height as the city expanded. New facades arrived, but the working port character stayed for a long time.
The famous Danish writer H. C. Andersen also lived here at three addresses over different periods between 1848 and 1875. First, he stayed at Nyhavn 20 early in his career. Then, he spent around two decades at Nyhavn 67. Afterwards, he lived at Nyhavn 18 for two years. Small plaques mark these addresses, so fans often stop for a photo at each doorway.
During the 1900s, shipping needs changed as the war years ended. Local groups pushed for renewal in the 1960s and 1970s. So, the inner part of the canal turned into a museum harbor for veteran ships in 1977, and the quay became a pedestrian zone in 1980. Now, there is a large anchor near Kongens Nytorv that honors sailors who died during the Second World War. These changes shaped Nyhavn into a welcoming public space for all visitors.
What to enjoy in Nyhavn?
Moving on from the historical times, let’s look at what you can enjoy in Nyhavn today!
Canal Activities
- Canal tour from Nyhavn: Spend about 60 minutes on a covered or open boat. Routes pass the Opera House, Amalienborg, Christianshavn, and the Little Mermaid. Peak season brings frequent departures, so you can book online to secure a spot. Expect a queue during summer months if you are purchasing on the spot.
- Walk along The Harbour Circle: Start your journey at Nyhavn and follow along the canal to walk the 13 kilometer long trail called The Harbour Circle in Copenhagen. You can spot major sites from Nyhavn and continue the day across the city, passing some of the best beaches and landmarks in Copenhagen.
Restaurants
- Hyttefadet: A long running Nyhavn favorite for Danish comfort dishes. Order pan fried plaice with remoulade or a hearty goulash. The fish fillet comes crisp with a bright squeeze of lemon and warm potatoes. Try the apple cake or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to finish. Inside, you’ll find close set tables that work for couples or small groups. Outside tables face the boats and offer a relaxed setting.
- Told & Snaps: Classic lunch in a wood paneled room near the canal. Go for a herring toast or a roast pork with crackling. Add the schnapps tasting flight with dill or caraway to match the fish. Their rye bread is baked to a firm crust and holds generous toppings. Seating mixes small tables and a snug bar area, with a few outdoor spots in good weather.
- Restaurant Koefoed: Five minutes from the canal, you’ll find this nook with a focus on Bornholm produce. Try smoked herring, butter fried plaice, and the tasting menu at dinner. Signature plates balance smoke, cream, and herbs in simple combinations. Ask about the cheese from Bornholm and their seasonal dessert for more. The calm dining room has spaced tables and soft lighting, which suits a slower meal.
Cafes
- Original Coffee Bredgade: Just a short walk from Nyhavn, you’ll find this popular cafe with locals coming for cappuccinos, cinnamon rolls, and light breakfast plates. You can add yogurt with granola, avocado toast, or a warm croissant to your coffee. The space has a mix of sofas, two person tables, and window seats that catch morning light.
- Coffee Collective Bernikow: This is a specialty roaster spot near Kongens Nytorv. Expect dialed in espresso, filter brews, and great vibes. Single origin beans rotate through the grinders, so flavors stay fresh and bright. Seating is mostly counter and window perches, with a few compact tables. Locals come for consistent quality, and they often purchase coffee beans separately.
Shops
- Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store: 250 years of history is captured in this porcelain house on Amagertorv with hand painted classics in their signature royal blue paint. Look for Blue Fluted Mega, Flora Danica, and seasonal pieces that make strong keepsakes. The store offers packing inspired by Japanese origami, and guided private tours with painting classes if you contact us in advance. Many travelers say the visit feels like a small museum with a checkout counter.
- Georg Jensen: Founded in 1904, this Danish brand sells silver and jewelry. Browse classic Cobra bowls, elegant serving pieces, and timeless bracelets and rings. Many visitors choose small gifts like key rings or candleholders that pack well. It is so loved by Danes that every single Danish household will own an item from George Jensen.
Landmarks and Photo Stops
- House number 9: The blue townhouse at number 9 dates from 1681 and is often named the oldest house on Nyhavn. We recommend standing across the canal for a clear angle.
- The Memorial Anchor: The large anchor near Kongens Nytorv honors Danish sailors who died during the war years. It is a common meeting point for a lot of tours, but it is still worth it to read the plaque and take a wide shot of the canal.
Conclusion
Ready to turn a short visit into a highlight? Nyhavn gives you history, food, shopping, and a harbor view in one easy stop. Join our Amitylux private tour in Copenhagen to shape the day around your interests. You can add a canal cruise, focus on historic landmarks, or build a dining route. Our professional guides will adjust the pace and the stops so you can enjoy Nyhavn in your own way. Will we see you in Copenhagen soon? Hopefully we will!
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you experience in Nyhavn?
You can walk a historic canal lined with colorful houses and classic ships. You can join a 60 minute canal tour, sit at cafes, and visit landmarks such as the Memorial Anchor.
What is Nyhavn known for?
Nyhavn is known for bright 17th and 18th century buildings, a lively restaurant scene, historic wooden boats, and a strong link to H. C. Andersen. It is also a hub for canal tours.
Where did H. C. Andersen live in Nyhavn?
H. C. Andersen lived at Nyhavn 20 early in his career. Later, he lived for about 20 years at Nyhavn 67, and he also lived two years at Nyhavn 18.
What is Nyhavn called in English?
It is commonly called New Harbour in English. Some people also say New Haven as a direct translation of the Danish.
