During summer, Nyhavn is the perfect place to enjoy a spot of al fresco dining. Or, if you prefer, you can do like the locals and buy a beer from a nearby store and rest your feet at the quayside.

Den Nye Havn, 'the New Haven', was originally a busy commercial port where ships from all over the world would dock. The area teemed with sailors, ladies of pleasure, pubs and alehouses. 'Den Nye Havn' eventually changed its name to 'Nyhavn' ('Newhaven'), and gradually the beautiful old slanted houses were renovated and classy restaurants started popping up.

Hans Christian Andersen's Nyhavn

No. 9, Nyhavn, is the oldest house in the area dating back to 1681. The design of the house has not been altered since that time.

Many of the houses lining the quays of Nyhavn have been the homes of prominent artists.

Hans Christian Andersen used to live at no. 20. This is where he wrote the fairy-tales 'the Tinder-Box', 'Little Claus and Big Claus', and 'the Princess and the Pea'. He also lived twenty years at no. 67 and two years at no. 18, Nyhavn.