Nyhavn is so well-known worldwide that many people assume it’s the only place in Copenhagen featuring colorful houses nestled together in a picture-perfect way. But there are plenty of other streets where you can see charming houses in various vibrant colors leaning against each other.
Let us guide you to the most picturesque streets the city has to offer. Grab your camera and let’s go!
Nyhavn, meaning New Harbor, was once a bustling commercial port where ships from around the world docked. The streets were alive with pubs, sailors, artists, and ladies of the night. Today, the pubs remain, but the crowd is a lively mix of locals and tourists - and it’s easy to see why! The brightly colored houses lining the canal create a stunning backdrop, and the lively atmosphere is palpable year-round, no matter the time of day or season.
Treat yourself to traditional Danish smørrebrød at the legendary Færgekroen, located in one of Copenhagen’s oldest buildings. Dating back to the 1600s, when Nyhavn was constructed, this historic spot has many stories to tell. In 1912, it housed the White Star Line shipping company, where Danes rushed to purchase tickets for the Titanic. On sunny days, when the light hits the 1st floor windows just right, you can still see the names of the destinations they sold tickets for.
Experience Nyhavn and its historic harbor firsthand aboard Stromma’s Classic Canal Tour.
Take a stroll through the narrow, cobblestoned streets of Nyboder, a historic district that once housed the Royal Danish Navy's barracks. These streets are not just a piece of Danish maritime history; they stand as a living testament to Copenhagen’s architectural heritage.
The rows of terraced houses, painted in the distinctive’ Nyboder yellow’, create a vibrant streetscape. This iconic color has become synonymous with the area and can be spotted in other parts of the city.
Start your Nyboder visit at Krokodillegade, or hop off at stop 4 – Gefion Fountain / Citadel on Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses.
Photo by Wonderful Copenhagen
Just a stone’s throw away from Nyboder lies the charming residential street of Gernersgade. Here, the houses are painted in a warm, sunny yellow hue that brightens the entire street - sure to put a smile on your face. As you stroll along, it's hard not to envy the lucky people who get to call Gernersgade home.
Photo by Wonderful Copenhagen
If you’re drawn to the quirky and cool, head to Sofiegade in Christianshavn. Here, you'll find one of the coolest and most unique and eye-catching houses in Copenhagen. This perfect gem stands out from its surroundings and truly embodies the soul and charm of Christianshavn, a neighborhood where things don’t have to be polished and perfect. Instead, the quirky, creative, and personal are celebrated.
One of the most scenic places for a stroll is Overgaden Oven Vandet, a historic street in Christianshavn. Nestled between the lively Christianhavn’s Canal and a row of vibrantly colored houses, this charming spot offers a picturesque setting.
Why not stop by one of the cafés along the canal and indulge in a sweet Danish pastry while watching people and boats pass by?
Join one of Stromma’s canal tours for the perfect view of the houses from the water and listen to the fascinating history of Christianshavn.
Photo by Wonderful Copenhagen
As you explore the city, you might come across a striking pastel-colored building that looks almost regal or even like a museum. But believe it or not, this is actually a movie theatre. How cool is that?
Its name, Palads (Palace in English), is a fitting one for such a spectacular building.
Before being transformed into a movie theatre, this building served as a train station for the first half of the 1900s. In 1989, in collaboration with Danish artist Paul Gerner, the iconic pastel colors were added, making it one of the most recognizable buildings in Copenhagen.
Address: Axeltorv 9
Join Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses and hop off at stop 12 – Tivoli Gardens
These are just some of our favorite colorful houses in Copenhagen, but there are plenty more to discover as you explore the city's neighborhoods. So, what are you waiting for? Go explore!
There are plenty of things to do in the city, from iconic sights to hidden gems. Explore our top picks on what to see and do while you're here.
Read more about the most iconic tourist attractions and must-visit landmarks in Copenhagen.
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