The Little Mermaid
Copenhagen's iconic bronze mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale. A symbol of longing and grace by the sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
The Little Mermaid
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Copenhagen's iconic bronze mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale. A symbol of longing and grace by the sea.
"A small statue with a big story, offering a peaceful moment by the sea."
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Beat the crowds for a more serene experience. Early mornings or late evenings offer the best atmosphere.
📏 Manage Size Expectations
The statue is smaller than many expect. Appreciate its artistry and the beautiful seaside setting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Little Mermaid Sculpture
Langelinie Promenade
A bronze statue of a mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale. Graceful and poetic, it's a symbol of Copenhagen.
Waterfront Serenity
Langelinie Promenade
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance by the water, with gentle waves and passing boats. A perfect spot for quiet reflection.
Nearby Fountain and Park
Adjacent to the statue
Discover a charming park and a beautiful fountain nearby, offering more to explore beyond the main attraction.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Experience
Manage Expectations: Size and Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Beat the crowds for a more serene experience. Early mornings or late evenings offer the best atmosphere. +1
📏 Manage Size Expectations
The statue is smaller than many expect. Appreciate its artistry and the beautiful seaside setting.
🚢 Consider a Boat Tour
Boat tours offer a unique perspective and convenient access to the statue.
🚶 Explore the Area
Don't just see the statue; explore the lovely park and nearby fountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Beat the crowds for a more serene experience. Early mornings or late evenings offer the best atmosphere. +1
📏 Manage Size Expectations
The statue is smaller than many expect. Appreciate its artistry and the beautiful seaside setting.
🚢 Consider a Boat Tour
Boat tours offer a unique perspective and convenient access to the statue.
🚶 Explore the Area
Don't just see the statue; explore the lovely park and nearby fountains.
💡 Bright Clothes for Interaction
If attending a mermaid show, bright clothes can encourage interaction with performers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find The Little Mermaid statue to be an iconic and peaceful landmark, appreciating its graceful artistry and serene waterfront setting. While many note it's smaller than expected and can be crowded, the overall experience is considered rewarding, especially when exploring the surrounding park and visiting during off-peak hours. +2
"Small statue, big crowds. The place is super busy as there are organized tours to see the statue by land and water. I took public transport and walked along the nearby park and enjoyed spending time at the place as it's serene to just sit down at the benches and enjoy the views, further away from the crowds. It's a nice experience if you don't go there just for the statue. But the statue is nice to see in person."
Natasha G
"The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is one of the city’s most iconic and Important landmarks It is smaller than many expect, there's something truly special and peaceful about seeing it in person.
It is on a rock by the water’s edge, the statue beautifully captures the delicate and art of Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale. The setting adds to the charm — It’s the kind of place where you naturally pause, surrounded by gentle waves, passing boats, and a quiet sense of calm despite the many visitors nearby.
I Liked most was how such a simple sculpture could carry so importance. It’s not grand or flashy, but rather graceful and simple. There is also a story behind it.
it’s often crowded, especially during peak hours, Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening can make it feel more personal and serene.
If you’re in Copenhagen, visiting the Little Mermaid is part of the tour. but to enjoy a quiet, simple moment by the sea. A small statue with a big story.
We visited in the morning and it was nto very crowded. If you take the hop on hop off it is . very convenient and can spend the time"
Sunil Kumar
"The little mermaid is smaller then I thought, but beautiful and the views are great. In the area there is a very nice fountain as well. I recomand you to go from the city center with the boat buss 992 true and 991 from the mermaid you pay the same way as the same buss from the city."
Alex Baloi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach The Little Mermaid via public transport, including bus routes like 991 and 992, which are convenient from the city center. Alternatively, consider a boat tour for a scenic approach.
Yes, it's generally easy to get to The Little Mermaid by train, with the surrounding area being well-connected.
While possible, it's a considerable walk. Public transport or a boat tour is often more practical for reaching The Little Mermaid from the city center.
Many visitors find public transport or boat tours to be the most convenient ways to reach The Little Mermaid, offering good value and accessibility.
Parking can be limited and challenging in the immediate vicinity. Public transport is generally recommended to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Little Mermaid statue is a public landmark and does not require tickets for viewing. It's free to visit.
The statue is accessible at all times as it is an outdoor public monument. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience.
There is no admission fee to see The Little Mermaid statue. It is a free attraction for all visitors.
Yes, many organized tours, including hop-on-hop-off buses and boat tours, include a stop at The Little Mermaid.
Yes, you can get quite close to the statue, and other tourists are usually accommodating, allowing space for photos.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photos with fewer crowds, aim for early morning or late evening. This also provides softer lighting. +1
The area around the statue offers various vantage points. Consider shots from the water's edge or slightly further back in the park for different perspectives.
Yes, you can take photos of and with The Little Mermaid statue. Be mindful of other visitors when composing your shots.
Use a wider aperture for portraits and a narrower one for landscapes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sea and sky.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas and near landmarks in Copenhagen. Check local regulations before flying.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are nice restaurants with terrace views in the vicinity of The Little Mermaid, offering a pleasant dining experience.
You'll find a range of options, from casual cafes to more formal dining, often featuring Danish cuisine and seafood.
Prices can vary, but there are options to suit different budgets. Exploring the surrounding park area might reveal more affordable choices.
Yes, picnicking in the nearby park is a great option. There are benches and green spaces perfect for enjoying your own snacks.
Yes, you can find cafes in the area offering coffee, pastries, and light snacks, perfect for a break during your visit.
🎫 💡 Interesting Facts
The statue is based on Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairytale of a mermaid who longs to become human.
The iconic bronze sculpture was created by Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen.
The statue was unveiled in 1913, inspired by a ballet performance based on Andersen's story.
Yes, the statue has been subjected to vandalism multiple times, including decapitation and being painted over.
In the 1989 animated film, characters from Cinderella can be spotted, showcasing Disney's early cinematic universe connections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and drinks for a picnic in the park, making the visit more relaxed and budget-friendly. Early morning visits are ideal to avoid overwhelming crowds and allow children to explore without feeling rushed. The nearby fountains can also be a source of amusement.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Instead of dining at potentially pricier waterfront restaurants, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the adjacent park. This allows you to savor the views without a significant expense. Exploring the statue and its surroundings on foot is also a great way to experience the area for free.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sea and sky, especially on a sunny day. If you're interested in capturing the statue within its environment, wide-angle lenses are useful. Be patient, as waiting for moments when crowds thin can yield the most impactful shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry and Inspiration
Despite its relatively small size, the statue carries immense emotional weight and cultural significance. Its graceful simplicity, rather than grandiosity, is what many visitors find most captivating. The setting on a rock by the water's edge further enhances its charm, allowing the gentle sounds of the sea and the sight of passing boats to contribute to a serene atmosphere.
While the statue itself is the main draw, its history is also marked by resilience. It has unfortunately been a target of vandalism over the years, undergoing repairs to restore its original form. This enduring spirit, much like the mermaid's own, adds another layer to its story.
Experiencing The Little Mermaid: Tips from Visitors
To truly soak in the atmosphere, arriving early in the morning or later in the evening is highly recommended. These off-peak times allow for a more personal encounter with the statue and a chance to appreciate the peaceful ambiance without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
Beyond the statue itself, exploring the surrounding Langelinie promenade and nearby park is a must. Visitors often discover charming fountains and pleasant walking paths that enhance the overall visit. Considering a boat tour can also offer a unique perspective and convenient access to this beloved Copenhagen icon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit