The Little Mermaid Statue in Copenhagen is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Denmark and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Inspired by the famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, the statue has become a symbol of Copenhagen’s rich cultural heritage and literary legacy.
Located at the edge of the Langelinie promenade, this bronze statue depicts the Little Mermaid, a character from Andersen's iconic story of love, sacrifice, and transformation. Although it is modest in size, the statue's elegance and the beautiful waterfront setting make it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Address: Langelinie, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
Metro: The nearest metro station is Kongens Nytorv Station (10-minute bus ride).
Bus: Lines 26 and 9A stop near the statue.
On foot: The statue is about a 30-minute walk from the Nyhavn and Amalienborg Palace areas.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 24 hours (the statue is outdoors and accessible year-round).
Admission Fees:
Free (The Little Mermaid Statue is a public landmark, so no entry fee is required.)
The statue is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale, The Little Mermaid, which was first published in 1837. The story tells the tale of a mermaid who sacrifices her voice and her life in the sea to become human in the hope of marrying a prince. The story explores themes of love, loss, and unfulfilled dreams, making it one of Andersen’s most famous and poignant tales.
The statue was unveiled on August 23, 1913, and was created by Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen. The statue was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, the heir to the Carlsberg brewery, who was inspired by a ballet performance of The Little Mermaid. The statue was originally made from copper and has since been covered with a layer of bronze to protect it from the elements.
The Little Mermaid Statue is a bronze sculpture sitting on a rock along the waterfront. The statue is around 1.25 meters tall, making it smaller than many visitors expect, but it has a unique charm in its simplicity. The mermaid is depicted with her long flowing hair, a graceful pose, and a look of contemplation as she gazes out to sea.
The statue is located on the Langelinie promenade, offering a picturesque backdrop of the Copenhagen harbor. This scenic area is a favorite for both tourists and locals.
Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoy views of the sea, and see the bustling harbor with cruise ships and boats passing by.
There are also several cafés and restaurants nearby, where visitors can relax and enjoy the view after taking photos with the statue.
💡 Tip: The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful moment with the statue.
The Little Mermaid Statue is one of the most photographed landmarks in Copenhagen. Some of the best shots are taken from the waterfront or with the Copenhagen skyline in the background.
Don’t forget to take pictures from different angles to capture the statue’s delicate pose and the stunning surrounding views.
While The Little Mermaid is undoubtedly one of Copenhagen's most famous sites, there are several other top attractions nearby that you should also visit:
Just a short distance from the statue is Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard, explore the museum, and learn about Denmark's royal history.
Located near The Little Mermaid, Kastellet is a well-preserved star-shaped fortress with beautiful walking paths, a windmill, and green spaces. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy a walk with views of the harbor.
One of Copenhagen’s most iconic areas, Nyhavn is a picturesque harbor lined with colorful buildings and lively cafés. A perfect spot for photos, dining, or a relaxing boat tour.
For art lovers, the National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst) offers an incredible collection of Danish and international art, including works from the Renaissance, Modernism, and Contemporary art.
There are several restaurants and cafés near the Little Mermaid Statue where you can enjoy Danish cuisine and international dishes. Some of the best options include:
Restaurant Amalie: A classic Danish restaurant offering traditional smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and seafood dishes.
Havfruen Restaurant: Located near the Langelinie promenade, this restaurant offers a scenic dining experience with fresh seafood and Scandinavian specialties.
Café Langelinie: A casual café where you can grab a coffee and pastry with a view of the harbor.
The statue has been the target of numerous acts of vandalism over the years, including being decapitated and painted on several occasions. However, it has been restored each time.
The statue was originally created from copper and later covered with bronze to protect it from corrosion.
The Little Mermaid Statue is often seen as a symbol of Denmark’s cultural heritage, but it is also regarded as a global icon of fairy tales.
The statue has been featured in numerous films, documentaries, and even commercials, cementing its place in pop culture.
The Little Mermaid Statue is a true symbol of Copenhagen and one of the most beloved landmarks in Denmark. Although small in size, it holds a deep cultural significance for both Denmark and fans of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales. Whether you are a literary enthusiast, a photography lover, or just a curious traveler, the Little Mermaid is a must-see on any trip to Copenhagen.