Copenhagen is the largest city in Scandinavia, the Danish capital, and one of the most important cities in Europe. It is undoubtedly modern, yet it retains its characteristic charm. If you are planning a trip, visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen is an essential experience to understand Danish history and culture. Moreover, it is the capital of the world’s oldest kingdom.
Through Her Eyes: Visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen
Many would say that visiting Copenhagen is like stepping into a world of royal palaces. Some experiences are essential: tasting smørrebrød (Danish open sandwiches), having a Carlsberg in Nyhavn, wandering the streets, and, of course, visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen.
Seeing the city through the eyes of the Little Mermaid is unavoidable. From her location, you can admire the organized streets and discover the charm of this historic city.
Keep in mind: Copenhagen is cold, but this should not stop you from experiencing the friendly nature of its people while uncovering the secrets of every corner of the city.
Have you ever wondered where the story of the Little Mermaid comes from? I have. And although it is not a Disney creation, it is a fairy tale written in 1837 by Hans Christian Andersen. Its inspiration comes from a Danish legend in which mermaids’ songs enchanted men at sea.
In Copenhagen, a humble fisherman fell under the spell of a young mermaid’s singing. The Little Mermaid gave up her immortality in exchange for a human form to keep the love of her prince. The statue was commissioned by the brewer Carl Jacobsen and donated to the city.
Extreme Winter in Copenhagen
Let’s be clear: those traveling in winter deserve extra miles or free hot chocolate and coconut drinks.
Winter in Denmark is extreme. When trees are bare, the sun barely shines, and people bundle up in layers like onions, that’s when you experience the city’s versatility.
Copenhagen, being a coastal city, feels even colder with the wind cutting through your clothes and skin. It is normal to experience temperatures of -10°C (14°F).
Yet, visiting the city in winter is far from impossible. A strange feeling overtakes you as you wander through the streets. Comfortable shoes are a must, though.
The city is perfectly sized to explore on foot or by bicycle. Street names are clear, roads are well-lit, and the city is welcoming to visitors. Locals are sociable and friendly.
One advantage of winter visits is fewer tourists, allowing you to explore historical sites and take your time visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen.
Copenhagen is a fascinating, dynamic city full of surprises. Despite the freezing weather, locals ride bicycles everywhere. With over 350 km of bike lanes, cycling is a cultural activity in itself.
Reaching the Statue: Visiting the Little Mermaid
There are several ways to reach the Little Mermaid statue. One obvious option is the tourist bus, since the statue is somewhat hidden. However, walking is, in my opinion, the best way to get there.
Inside Kastellet Park, you can find the Little Mermaid, who has survived all kinds of vandalism, including being decapitated in 1998 and occasionally covered in paint.
On March 26, 2010, the statue left Denmark for the first time, traveling to China for six months as part of an exhibition.
Of course, visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen allows you to appreciate these historical details, which make the experience truly unique.
The center of Copenhagen revolves around Stroget Avenue, which starts at City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen) and stretches 1.5 km, ending at the Royal Square (Kongens Nytorv).
Each section of Stroget has different names: Østergade and Amagertorv are shopping paradises with stores of all kinds. Nytorv and Gammeltorv, the next sections, form a plain that connects what once were two separate squares.
Being in the middle of a cosmopolitan area surrounded by green spaces is not only amazing but also adds a necessary touch of nature.
Among these highlights are the Tivoli Gardens, where people spend leisure time socializing and enjoying numerous performances. Here, you can find the oldest operating wooden roller coaster. It’s important to know that entry tickets are required, as well as separate tickets for each attraction.
While thinking about the Little Mermaid, I realized that Nyhavn (the New Harbor) is one of the city’s most famous spots because of its colorful houses.
From Nyhavn, tourist boats leave for nearby islands and the opera. So, visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen also includes enjoying the beauty of Nyhavn and its surroundings.
The New Harbor is picturesque. It’s square-shaped and opens into the city; the water is very clean. Historically, it was full of sailors, and some still visit, but the area has become a bit more chic. It is located near the Kongens Nytorv metro station and is one of the liveliest spots at night.
I thought one of the hardest parts about reaching the Little Mermaid of my dreams would be the language. I speak three languages (English, Spanish, and German), but not Danish.
By this, I mean I expected it to be difficult to communicate, but it wasn’t. Copenhageners, and Danes in general, are very polite people, something they take pride in. They are friendly and relaxed, which taught me the exact word for that way of life: hygge.
Any visitor visiting the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen will see how the local character blends perfectly with history and nature.
Different from the Rest of Europe
Despite all its wonders, to truly appreciate this city and country, you need to spend time with the people. Culturally, Danes are not as reserved as people in other Nordic countries. They are relaxed, love good food, care for the environment, and are very devoted to their bicycles.
Another marvel I discovered while looking for the Little Mermaid is that one reason Danes are happy is their trust in their political system—a concept completely unfamiliar to me.
How is this possible? I was told: “We trust that they are doing their job, doing the best for the people—they were elected after all… but this doesn’t mean we like them!” I was amazed by this answer.
Anyone can visit Christiansborg (where the parliament, Prime Minister’s office, and Supreme Court are located) and see members of parliament at work.
Another reason for their happiness is their functional health and education systems. But this does not happen by magic—it’s thanks to high taxes.
Continuing with the wonders of Denmark’s capital, it is important to note that, like other Scandinavian cities, Copenhagen is different from the rest of Europe.
Being in one of the most open-minded countries, it’s impossible not to visit Christiania.
Christiania is the result of a revolutionary and free society. This is why Copenhagen is considered the land of freedom and equality.
Although it is now a rather run-down neighborhood and home to the city’s dealers, the part of Christiania near the river is where the true residents live.
In this area, houses are well-painted and often have organic gardens. Approach and observe what remains of a beautiful dream.
Finally
Finally, Copenhagen is the perfect place for a first contact with Danish and Scandinavian culture. It allows for a full appreciation of identity, giving visitors the chance to understand both the Danish past and present.
Every day, the Little Mermaid is photographed by thousands of tourists from all over the world. Many are disappointed by her size—she is smaller than expected, only 1.25 meters (4’1”), while I am 1.53 meters (5’). However, it is this size and simplicity that make her captivating and impossible to stop photographing. I never imagined her being so small and detached from reality. Perhaps the Little Mermaid wants to become immortal in photos. That is why Copenhagen and the Little Mermaid will remain immortal.
