Nyhavn in summer

In summer Nyhavn is at its liveliest — long light evenings, packed quay edges, ice cream in hand and boats setting off. It's also peak season and the busiest. Here's how to make the most of a summer's day by the canal.

Nyhavn in summer — long light evenings, canal tours and ice cream on the quay, and when to dodge the biggest crowds.

Long light evenings

In summer it barely gets dark until late, and the evening light over the canal is some of the most beautiful. Many people sit on the edge of the quay with a beer or an ice cream and watch the world go by — it's a fixed part of a Copenhagen summer.

What to do

Take a canal tour (most depart from here), grab a waffle ice cream, walk along the harbour towards the Little Mermaid, or book a table with a view. See everything on the quay on the map.

Crowds and the best time

Summer is peak season — the middle of the day is busiest. To have the quay and the views more to yourself, come early in the morning; that's when the best light and the calm are. Evenings are lively and cosy.

Read also our honest take and walks in and around Nyhavn.

When is Nyhavn least busy in summer?

Early morning. The middle of the day is busiest; evenings are lively.

What is there to do in Nyhavn in summer?

A canal tour, ice cream on the quay, a drink by the water, and walks along the harbour — for example to the Little Mermaid.

Can you swim at Nyhavn?

Not in Nyhavn itself, but the harbour baths (such as at Islands Brygge) are a walk or short ride away.