Nyhavn

A postcard-perfect patch of the harbour

Popular plate: Although it may seem obligatory to drink beer at Nyhavn, there are other options for sustenance: try the ice cream with “guff” (marshmallow heaven).
This highly photogenic stretch of Copenhagen harbour is lined with colourful 17th- and 18th-century houses, wooden sailing ships - and beer drinkers. Once the area was rather notorious, divided into 'nice' and 'naughty' sides, the latter swarming with sailors and prostitutes. Now, the dens of iniquity have been turned into expensive hotels and restaurants, and the pavement cafes are filled with a happy mix of locals and visitors (including a large number of Swedes, who cross over to Copenhagen for the cheaper booze).

Undeniably touristy it may be, but Nyhavn has held on to its charm and is definitely worth a stroll. Houses to note are number 9, the oldest in the harbour dating back to 1681, and the three residences of Hans Christian Anderson at numbers 18, 20, and 67.