Is Nyhavn worth visiting?

The short answer

Yes — Nyhavn is worth visiting. The rows of coloured houses, the old wooden ships and the life along the canal are Copenhagen's most photographed sight for a reason. But don't go expecting a hidden gem: it's a well-known attraction, and you'll feel that most in the middle of a summer's day.

What Nyhavn is great for

Come for the view and the atmosphere — the canal, the houses and a cold beer or a coffee by the water. It's also where many canal tours depart, so it works well as the starting point for a trip around the harbour.

The honest caveat

The restaurants on the quay are paying for the view — and so are you. The food is rarely bad, but you often pay more for the location than for the plate, especially on the sunny side (the odd house numbers). If you want to eat well without the view premium, we look honestly at the options in our overview of Nyhavn's restaurants.

The best time to come

Early morning, if you want the photos without the crowds — the light is best then too. Outside high season, in spring and autumn, it's calmer. Evenings have a good atmosphere but are also the liveliest. See how to get to Nyhavn.

How to make the most of it

• Walk the full length of the quay and back — most people stop at the first hundred metres.
• Take the photo from the bridge at the end, looking towards the coloured houses.
• Have just one drink by the water, and eat somewhere we've reviewed honestly.
• Combine it with a canal tour or a longer walk along the harbour.