The Little Mermaid at Langelinie
The Little Mermaid It is without doubt Denmark's most famous attraction and a must-see highlight for visitors in the capital. The iconic statue sits on its stone by Langelinie in Copenhagen and inspired by H.C. Andersen's world-famous fairy tale. Although The Little Mermaid is modest in size, its significance is enormous – culturally, historically, and in terms of tourism.
For many, a visit to The Little Mermaid at Langelinie is synonymous with an authentic encounter with Copenhagen and Danish cultural history.
The story behind The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid was erected in 1913 and was created by sculptor Edvard Eriksen. The statue was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen from Carlsberg, who wanted to honor H.C. Andersen's fairy tale art. The motif depicts the mermaid at the moment she gazes longingly towards land – caught between the world of the sea and that of humans.
It is precisely this melancholic mood that makes The Little Mermaid more than just a tourist attraction. The statue symbolizes longing, love, and sacrifice – themes that recur in many of H.C. Andersen's stories and still move people around the world.
Langelinie – perfect location by the water
Langelinie is one of Copenhagen's most popular promenades and stretches along the harbor front north of the city center. Here you will find a unique combination of historic surroundings, open water areas, and modern city life. The Little Mermaid is sitting right at the water's edge, where the Øresund creates a beautiful and atmospheric backdrop.
The area around Langelinie is ideal for a leisurely walk, and many combine the visit with:
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A walk around Kastellet
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a harbor tour
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Bike ride along Copenhagen's harbor
The location makes The Little Mermaid easily accessible and an obvious stop on a classic sightseeing route in Copenhagen.
One of Copenhagen's most visited attractions
The Little Mermaid is among the most photographed attractions in Denmark and appears in almost all travel guides about Copenhagen. Every year, the statue is visited by millions of tourists who want to experience this iconic symbol of the city.
Many are surprised by the size of the statue, but it is precisely its simplicity and calm expression that are a large part of its charm. The Little Mermaid has also been the center of both artistic actions and political messages over the years, which has helped maintain its status as a cultural gathering point.
The Little Mermaid and H.C. Andersen's legacy
The fairy tale of The Little Mermaid is an essential part of H.C. Andersen's international legacy, and the statue at Langelinie serves as a physical manifestation of this story. It connects Danish literature with the Copenhagen urban space and allows visitors to experience the adventure in reality.
For many foreign tourists, The Little Mermaid is their first encounter with H.C. Andersen's universe – and thus also with Danish culture and history.
Practical information for your visit
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Address Langelinie, Copenhagen
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Price: Free
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Opening hours: Always open
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Best time: Early morning or late evening for fewer people
The Little Mermaid can be experienced all year round and is beautiful in all kinds of weather – from sunny summer days to atmospheric winter mornings.
Therefore, you should experience The Little Mermaid at Langelinie
A visit to The Little Mermaid at Langelinie is almost mandatory when you are in Copenhagen. The statue is a strong symbol of Denmark, Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales, and the capital's maritime history. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to the city, The Little Mermaid is a sight always worth experiencing – calm, poetic, and full of meaning.
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The Little Mermaid, Langelinie, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark