The Little Mermaid (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is The Little Mermaid?
What makes it 80% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can reach the free harborside statue by bus or bike, enjoy sunrise photos and a quiet Kastellet walk, but the stop lasts 30 min and heavy tourist crowds start mid-morning.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee lets you visit spontaneously without booking.
- Safe and well-lit: The promenade is patrolled and busy, making solo walks comfortable.
Challenges:
- No facilities on site: There are no restrooms or cafes at the statue; plan breaks at Nyhavn or Kastellet.
- Wind and weather: Sea breeze can feel colder; dress in layers and bring waterproof gear.
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 solo trip?
- Iconic free-entry bronze sculpture by H.C. Andersen’s heroine
- Quiet early visits perfect for solo travelers and photography
- Scenic Langelinie promenade and Kastellet fortress nearby
- Optional budget-friendly activities: boat tours, city biking, smartphone quest
- Easy access via public transport and clear signposts
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for the statue, Langelinie promenade and a quick visit to Kastellet.
Solo-Friendly Activities in The Little Mermaid
Early-morning statue viewing:
Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the sculpture with fewer visitors.
Tip: Take public transport to Langelinie Metro and bring a light jacket for sea breeze.
Self-guided Langelinie and Kastellet walk:
Stroll the waterfront path to Kastellet and explore its ramparts and windmill.
Tip: Use offline maps to navigate between the promenade and fortress without data.
Harbor sightseeing cruise:
Join a 1-hour boat tour from Nyhavn that pauses at The Little Mermaid.
Tip: Book tickets online early and choose a deck seat for clear photos.
Smartphone mermaid quest:
Solve fairy-tale clues on your phone from central Copenhagen to the statue.
Tip: Download the Questo app and fully charge your phone before the 2–3 hour game.
City bike ride:
Rent a bike and cycle the harbor route for wider city views.
Tip: Use a Donkey Republic or Bycyklen station near Langelinie and lock the bike when you stop.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Little Mermaid
- Go at sunrise: Beat the crowds and get soft light by arriving before 8 AM.
- Combine with Kastellet: Explore the fortress right after the statue to make the most of the flat route.
- Download offline maps: Save Copenhagen maps to navigate without data roaming.
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)?
In winter layer up and check forecasts before heading to the windy shore. In summer go late evening for golden light and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooms around Kastellet—plan a walk after viewing the statue.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Harbor cruise | DKK 175 |
| City bike rental | DKK 90 |
| Smartphone quest | DKK 135 |
| Total Estimated | DKK 400 |
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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