Højbro Plads, Copenhagen - a black and white photo of a river running through a city
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Højbro Plads Copenhagen

4.5
·68 reviews·København, Denmark

A historic Copenhagen square featuring the Absalon statue, canal views, and a vibrant Christmas market.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Warm afternoons

Enjoy the local vibe

CrowdMedium
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Højbro Plads, Copenhagen - a black and white photo of a river running through a city

Højbro Plads Copenhagen

Best Time

Warm afternoons

Enjoy the local vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Copenhagen square featuring the Absalon statue, canal views, and a vibrant Christmas market.

4.5
(68 reviews)

"Nice square with bicycles parking, monument to Bishop Absalon, founder of Copenhagen, and views with 2 towers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍺 Enjoy a Local Brew

Grab a cold beer and relax by the canal to soak in the Copenhagen spirit. :beer:

📸 Capture the Absalon Statue

Don't miss the iconic equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, a key landmark in the square. :camera:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Absalon Statue

Absalon Statue

Center of Højbro Plads

The imposing equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, Copenhagen's founder, stands proudly in the square.

Christmas Market Magic

Christmas Market Magic

Højbro Plads

Experience a festive wonderland with stalls, treats, and a charming atmosphere during the holiday season.

Canal Views & People-Watching

Canal Views & People-Watching

Edge of Højbro Plads

Enjoy a local vibe with a cold drink, watching the world go by along the picturesque canals.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

When the weather is nice, grab a cold beer and find a spot on Højbro Plads to soak in the sun and people-watch. It's a quintessential Copenhagen experience that locals love. Reddit

Seasonal Delights

During the holiday season, Højbro Plads transforms into a magical Christmas market. Plan your visit between early November and late December to experience the festive atmosphere. Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Warm afternoons
Why
Enjoy the local vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Early November - Late December
Why
Festive Christmas market
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇩🇰 How to spend a perfect day in Copenhagen ⬇️⁣⁣ MORNING⁣⁣ – ⛵️Explore Nyhavn⁣⁣ – 🥐 Coffee & pastries at BUKA bakery⁣⁣ – 🛍 Vintage & ceramic shopping (scroll for recommendations)⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ AFTERNOON⁣⁣ – 🍽 Lunch at either Delphine or Spuntino⁣⁣ – 🎡 Visit Tivoli Gardens ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ EVENING⁣⁣ – 🌮 Reffen Street Food Market⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ More Copenhagen Recommendations ⬇️⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🍽 RESTAURANTS — Pluto, Spuntino, Reffen, Put,...
@kelseyinlondon
127.8K likes • 3.1M views

🍺 Enjoy a Local Brew

Grab a cold beer and relax by the canal to soak in the Copenhagen spirit. Reddit :beer:

📸 Capture the Absalon Statue

Don't miss the iconic equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, a key landmark in the square. Instagram :camera:

Five Things To Do in Copenhagen 🇩🇰 #copenhagen #traveltips #thingstodo
@jyptravels
61.7K likes • 1.7M views
Lovely spots in Copenhagen: The equestrian statue of Absalon on Højbro Plads 🇩🇰 #copenhagen #copenhagen🇩🇰 #visitcopenhagen #visitdenmark #traveldenmark #denmark #denmark🇩🇰 #citystreets #wanderer #travelphotography #travel #viaje #viajes #viajesporelmundo #viajesinolvidables #viajerosporelmundo #beautifuldestinations #beautifulmatters
marie.theresse
43 likes • 643 views

🛍️ Explore Nearby Shops

Højbro Plads is close to Strøget, Copenhagen's main shopping street, for a retail adventure. Instagram :shopping_bags:

🌭 Grab a Danish Hot Dog

Try an authentic Danish hot dog from a nearby stand for a quick and tasty bite. :hot_dog:

Forlænget weekendt i KBH med manden ♥️ Vi overnattede på Go Copenhagen hotel. Vi har været i Nyhavn på kanalrundfart, Været inde og se torvehallerne Hygget med en kold øl på Højbro plads Spist på Rio bravo, hvor vi fik stegt flæsk og jeg en irsk kaffe 😉. Og så var inde forbi Alle mod 1 Det var en sjov oplevelse. Vi besøgte osse Assistent kirkegården Hvor Digteren Hc. Andersen, skuespille...
lifebymyggen
463 likes • 7.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🍺 Enjoy a Local Brew

Grab a cold beer and relax by the canal to soak in the Copenhagen spirit. Reddit :beer:

📸 Capture the Absalon Statue

Don't miss the iconic equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, a key landmark in the square. Instagram :camera:

🛍️ Explore Nearby Shops

Højbro Plads is close to Strøget, Copenhagen's main shopping street, for a retail adventure. Instagram :shopping_bags:

🌭 Grab a Danish Hot Dog

Try an authentic Danish hot dog from a nearby stand for a quick and tasty bite. :hot_dog:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(68 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Højbro Plads is a pleasant and central square in Copenhagen, appreciated for its historic statue of Bishop Absalon and its role as a lively gathering spot. Visitors enjoy the canal views and the opportunity to experience local life, especially with a drink in hand. During the holidays, it transforms into a popular and festive Christmas market.

"I got some authentic Danish hot dog which was banging 🌋"

Fangda “1andonlyconnoisseur” Chen

"This area was extremely pleasant for afternoon tea and feel like a local for an hour or so"

Big Fish Dive Club

"Square in Copenhagen with statues and notable buildings."

Hassan Saleh

What People Like

Historic Absalon statue
Pleasant canal views
Local atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Højbro Plads is centrally located and easily accessible. You can walk from many popular areas like Nyhavn or Strøget. Public transport options include buses that stop nearby, or you can take the Metro to Kongens Nytorv station and walk a few minutes. Instagram

Absolutely! Højbro Plads is very walkable and conveniently situated near Nyhavn, Strøget shopping street, and the canals. Many visitors enjoy strolling between these key Copenhagen spots. Reddit

Parking in central Copenhagen can be challenging. There are paid parking garages nearby, such as the one under Filkegaard. Cycling is also a very popular and convenient way to get around, with ample bike racks available. Reddit

The best way to experience Højbro Plads is to embrace the local atmosphere. Grab a drink, sit by the canal, and people-watch, especially on a sunny day. Reddit

While Højbro Plads itself is a public square, exploring the surrounding streets and canals is free. You can also enjoy window shopping along Strøget or admire the architecture. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Højbro Plads is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. Instagram

Højbro Plads is always open as it's an outdoor public space. However, individual shops and cafes surrounding the square will have their own operating hours. Instagram

The Absalon statue is a public monument and there is no fee to view or take photos of it. Instagram

The Højbro Plads Christmas Market typically opens in early November and runs until late December. Specific dates can vary each year. Instagram+1

Højbro Plads often hosts events, most notably its popular Christmas Market. Keep an eye on local event listings for any other seasonal happenings. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Absalon statue is a central photo opportunity. Capturing the canal views with the historic buildings and the towers of Christiansborg and Nikolaj Art Center in the background is also highly recommended. Instagram

Yes, Højbro Plads can be quite picturesque at night, especially when illuminated. The Christmas market lights during the season add an extra layer of magic for photographers. Instagram

For clear shots of the Absalon statue and surrounding buildings, mornings or late afternoons offer softer light. For a lively atmosphere, afternoons are great, and evenings offer beautiful illumination. Instagram

Drone usage in Copenhagen's city center is generally restricted due to regulations and proximity to populated areas. It's best to check current Danish drone laws before flying. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the statue and wider square views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for encompassing the canal and buildings. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Højbro Plads is surrounded by cafes and restaurants. You can find options for afternoon tea, or enjoy a local Danish hot dog from a nearby stand. InstagramReddit

The Christmas market typically offers traditional Danish treats like gløgg (mulled wine), æbleskiver (pancake balls), and various sausages and pastries. Instagram+1

For a casual lunch, consider grabbing an authentic Danish hot dog from a street vendor or enjoying a pastry and coffee at one of the cafes with outdoor seating overlooking the square. Reddit

While traditional Danish cuisine can be meat-heavy, many cafes and restaurants in Copenhagen are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask staff. TikTok

Gløgg is a warm, spiced mulled wine, often with raisins and almonds, popular during Danish Christmas markets. You can find it at the Højbro Plads Christmas Market. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Højbro Plads offers a pleasant open space for families to take a break. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the square is generally safe for children to walk around, especially when supervised. Grabbing an ice cream or a Danish pastry from a nearby bakery can be a treat for kids. TikTok

During the Christmas market season, the festive atmosphere can be magical for children. The lights, the stalls selling toys and sweets, and the general buzz of excitement create a memorable experience. Parents should be mindful of crowds during peak times, especially on weekends. Instagram+1

🛍️ Shoppers & Sightseers

Højbro Plads is a dream location for shoppers and sightseers. Situated right next to Strøget, one of Europe's longest pedestrian shopping streets, you have immediate access to a vast array of international and Danish brands, as well as charming boutiques. Instagram

For sightseers, the square itself is a landmark, featuring the Absalon statue and views of important buildings like Christiansborg Palace and the Nikolaj Art Center. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point or stopping point for exploring Copenhagen's historic core, with Nyhavn and other attractions just a short walk away. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Højbro Plads to be a rewarding location. The Absalon statue provides a strong focal point, while the surrounding canals and historic architecture offer classic Copenhagen scenes. The interplay of light on the water and buildings can create beautiful shots, especially during the golden hours. Instagram

During the Christmas market, the square becomes a photographer's paradise with festive lights, decorations, and the lively market atmosphere. Capturing the details of the stalls, the glowing lanterns, and the happy faces of visitors can result in stunning holiday-themed images. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Copenhagen: Højbro Plads

Højbro Plads is one of Copenhagen's most historic and central squares, offering a vibrant glimpse into city life. Dominated by the impressive equestrian statue of Bishop Absalon, the founder of Copenhagen, the square serves as a focal point for both locals and tourists. Its prime location, adjacent to the bustling Strøget shopping street and overlooking picturesque canals, makes it a natural gathering place. Instagram

During warmer months, Højbro Plads is a popular spot for people to relax with a drink, often a cold beer, and enjoy the sunshine and the lively atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly feel the pulse of the city and observe daily life unfold. The surrounding buildings showcase classic Danish architecture, adding to the square's charm and historical significance. Reddit

However, Højbro Plads truly transforms during the holiday season. From early November to late December, it hosts one of Copenhagen's most beloved Christmas markets, drawing crowds with its festive stalls, twinkling lights, and the aroma of mulled wine and traditional treats. This seasonal transformation makes Højbro Plads a destination that offers distinct experiences throughout the year. Instagram+2

Experiencing Højbro Plads Like a Local

To truly experience Højbro Plads like a local, timing is key. When the sun is shining and the weather is pleasant, head to the square with a cold beverage in hand. Find a spot along the canal, perhaps with a beer from a nearby kiosk, and simply sit back, relax, and observe. This unhurried approach to enjoying the public space is a hallmark of Copenhagen's lifestyle. Reddit

Beyond the simple pleasure of people-watching, consider the historical context. The statue of Bishop Absalon is a constant reminder of the city's origins. Take a moment to appreciate the surrounding architecture, which offers a blend of historical styles. The proximity to other key areas like Nyhavn and Strøget means you can easily incorporate a visit to Højbro Plads into a broader exploration of the city's core. Instagram

During the Christmas season, the 'local' experience shifts to embracing the festive spirit. Join the crowds at the Christmas market, sample traditional Danish treats like 'gløgg' and 'æbleskiver', and soak in the joyful atmosphere. It's a communal experience that brings people together, embodying the 'hygge' that Denmark is famous for. Instagram+1

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