The Little Mermaid (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Little Mermaid?
What makes it 68% Kids-Friendly: Children connect the statue to Andersen’s tale and can play at Kastellet playground nearby, but the unguarded water edge, lack of toilets and limited shade shorten visits and demand close supervision.
Positives:
- Free entry: Access to the statue, promenade and playground is free.
- Stroller access: Flat, paved paths fit strollers and young walkers.
- Compact area: Key sights are within a 10-minute walk of each other.
Challenges:
- Crowded midday: Between 10 AM and 4 PM the area fills up quickly.
- Limited restrooms: No toilets or changing facilities at the statue; plan breaks in cafés.
What is The Little Mermaid?
- A bronze sculpture of a mermaid poised on a granite boulder along Copenhagen’s Langelinie promenade
- Edvard Eriksen cast the figure in 1913 as a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale
- The life-size composition blends naturalistic anatomy with Art Nouveau elegance in a 125 cm tall form
What is so special about The Little Mermaid for with kids?
- Quick photo with the bronze fairy-tale mermaid
- Secure playground play at Kastellet fortress
- Seaside picnic overlooking passing boats
- Interactive little-mermaid clue hunt for older kids
- Short family-friendly canal cruise with narration
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to see the statue, explore Kastellet playground and picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Little Mermaid
Pose at The Little Mermaid statue:
Admire Andersen’s bronze mermaid perched on a rock by the sea.
Tip: Arrive before 9 AM to beat crowds and let each child take turns for photos.
Play at the Citadel playground:
Explore wooden play structures and grassy lawns inside Kastellet fortress.
Tip: Bring scooters or balls; playground is a 5-minute walk from the statue.
Picnic on Langelinie promenade:
Spread a blanket on the grass and watch boats pass by the harbor.
Tip: Pick up sandwiches and local cheese at Netto near Kastellet entrance.
Smartphone quest game:
Solve fairy-tale clues on your phone as you walk to the statue.
Tip: Download the Questo app and clues before you go; best for kids aged 8+.
Family harbor boat cruise:
Take a 50-minute narrated canal tour that pauses by the mermaid.
Tip: Book at Nyhavn; choose seats by the rail so kids get clear views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Little Mermaid
- Off-peak timing: Visit before 9 AM or after 5 PM to avoid peak crowds.
- Public transport: Take bus 26 to Kastellet for the shortest, flattest route.
- Pack snacks: Bring water and snacks to keep kids energized between stops.
Reviews of The Little Mermaid
Gokhan
Den Lille Havfrue (The Little Mermaid) is iconic! A must-see in Copenhagen with its charming waterfront setting. Perfect for photos and a peaceful stroll along the harbor.
Roopa Nair
Visiting the Little Mermaid is a simple but really nice experience. It’s not a big monument, but standing by the water with the sea breeze and good weather makes it feel special. On a sunny or clear day, the area is perfect for a slow walk, clicking a few photos, and just enjoying the calm vibe. You’ll see tourists and locals hanging around, sitting by the water and soaking in the view. It’s a pea...
Steph S
Visited early in the week and early morning, the cost is free and there wasn’t many people around, it was stunning as there was snow on the ground, super for this kiwi! I had been pre-warned that it was a small statue and yes it was, but I enjoyed the walk there and my time in Copenhagen, a definite must do if you are there. It’s a Copenhagen icon so I visited!
Lucas PERRAUDIN
Visiting this iconic statue as night fell was truly a remarkable experience, it being one of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks! The little walk to get to her next to the sea is very calm and lovely, but I was quite bothered by the crowd. Don’t get me wrong, it’s normal for such statue to gain a lot of attention, but there are no observation platforms to see her, making it even harder to get a gli...
Mark Hembery
The Little Mermaid – A Symbol of Copenhagen We visited the famous Little Mermaid statue, and while the statue itself is quite small, it’s definitely worth the visit. Nestled along the waterfront, the surroundings are absolutely beautiful, offering peaceful views and a scenic walk leading up to the site. The walk itself is part of the experience – calm, relaxing, and filled with lovely views of t...
When is the best time to visit The Little Mermaid (Copenhagen, Denmark)?
Summer days are long but crowded; aim for late afternoon visits. In winter, dress in layers and windproof gear for the waterfront breeze.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic food | DKK 150 |
| Harbor boat cruise for family | DKK 700 |
| Smartphone quest game | DKK 135 |
| Total Estimated | DKK 985 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Little Mermaid
Address: Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
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