Copenhagen's Little Mermaid: Where Fairytales Meet Reality

TLDR: The Little Mermaid in Copenhagen offers a quaint, free, and historically rich landmark experience. Expect a small statue, potential crowds, and a great opportunity to explore nearby areas with practical transport links.

The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) is the enduring icon of Copenhagen, attracting millions of visitors every year. Perched on a rock at the Langelinie waterfront, this bronze statue brings Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairytale to life.

In this article, I'll cover both the story behind her - the original story vs. the Disney version - and practical tips on how to visit, including the best transport options. Get ready for some clear, practical insights to help you decide if a visit is right for your next Danish adventure.

What is the story behind The Little Mermaid?

The Little Mermaid embodies a century of Danish storytelling.

Her journey began in 1909, sparked by Carl Jacobsen, the son of Carlsberg's founder, and a prominent art patron in his own right.. He was so moved by a ballet performance of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale at the Royal Danish Theatre that he commissioned sculptor Edvard Eriksen to bring the sorrowful character to life. Eriksen's wife, Eline, bravely modeled for the statue's body when the original ballerina declined, while the dancer's face inspired the head. 

She was officially revealed on August 23, 1913, quietly gazing out to sea from Copenhagen's Langelinie promenade. This seemingly small figure quickly became a beloved symbol, encapsulating the city's literary heart and maritime spirit, a legacy that continues to this day. You’ll soon learn why her life has been anything but quiet since then.

Why is The Little Mermaid so famous?

Her fame stems from being a beloved national icon, directly linked to Denmark's most celebrated storyteller, Hans Christian Andersen. Millions visit her annually, drawn by the poignant tale of love and sacrifice that inspired her creation. 

What often surprises visitors, including myself, is her modest size; standing at only 1.25 meters (about 4 feet) tall, she’s much smaller than many expect from such a world-renowned landmark. Despite her delicate appearance, her story is one of surprising resilience, as you'll discover when we look at her eventful past.

What happened to The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen?

Despite her serene pose, The Little Mermaid has faced a surprisingly turbulent existence. 

Since her 1913 unveiling, she’s been a frequent target of vandalism. Her head has been stolen twice, in 1964 and 1998, with the first never recovered. An arm was sawn off in 1984, and in 2003, she was even dislodged from her base by explosives. She has also endured numerous paint attacks, often for political statements. 

Each time, however, Copenhagen has painstakingly restored her, a clear sign of the city's dedication to this cultural treasure. In a rare break from her usual spot, the original statue traveled to Shanghai for the 2010 World Expo, showcasing her to millions abroad. It's a powerful narrative of survival for a statue that’s often assumed to be permanent.

How to get to The Little Mermaid?

Reaching The Little Mermaid is quite straightforward, making her an accessible part of your Copenhagen visit. 

She's located at Langelinie, 2100 København Ø. The most popular approach is a pleasant 15-minute walk from Østerport Station, which is easily reached by metro (lines M3, M4) or S-train (lines 802, A, B, C, RE). 

If you prefer public transport closer to the site, several bus lines, including 23, 27, and 2A, stop at Indiakaj, which is just a minute's walk from the statue. 

The walk itself offers nice views along the waterfront, getting you into the spirit of Copenhagen's maritime heritage before you even see her.

In short:

• By Train: The closest S-train station is Østerport Station. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk through the scenic Kastellet fortress.
• By Bus: Bus 27 stops directly at "Indiakaj," a short walk from the statue.‍
• By Boat: The Canal Tours often pass by the statue for a water view, or you can take the harbour bus (Havnebussen) line 991/992 to Nordre Toldbod.

Is The Little Mermaid free to visit?

Yes, absolutely! The Little Mermaid is completely free to visit, which is always a bonus for budget-conscious travellers. She sits outdoors on the Langelinie Promenade, accessible to everyone, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

There’s no fence, no ticket booth, just open access to this iconic bronze figure. This public accessibility reflects her role as a symbol for the city. 

It’s comforting to know that one of Copenhagen's biggest draws won't cost you a penny, leaving more in your pocket for other experiences.

Is The Little Mermaid set in Denmark?

While Hans Christian Andersen’s original fairy tale, "Den lille havfrue", describes an undersea kingdom and a prince's land without explicit names, its deep roots are undeniably Danish. 

Andersen himself was a celebrated Danish author, publishing the tale in Copenhagen in 1837. The city’s connection to the story is solidified by the iconic bronze statue you see today. This landmark was commissioned right here in Copenhagen and has been gazing out from the city's harbor since 1913. 

So, yes, from its literary origins to its physical embodiment, The Little Mermaid is intrinsically Danish.

Is it worth visiting The Little Mermaid?

Whether a visit is "worth it" depends entirely on your expectations. For those who appreciate literary connections, Danish heritage, or ticking off world-famous landmarks, she's certainly a must-see. The tranquil setting on the Langelinie promenade offers a nice waterfront stroll with pleasant harbor views. 

However, be prepared: many visitors, myself included, are often surprised by her small stature. She can also get incredibly crowded, especially mid-day during peak season, making it hard to get a clear view or photo.

My practical advice? Go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the tour bus rush. Daylight hours are generally best for photos. It’s a free experience, easily combined with nearby sights, and most people spend only a few minutes here.

To efficiently prioritize your sightseeing across Copenhagen, you might consider using StoryHunt for engaging audio stories, which helps you decide what's genuinely worth your time. Try it out for free here.

What else can I do in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen offers a fantastic array of experiences beyond The Little Mermaid, and we even have a guide to the top attractions in Østerbro here. 

• Just a short walk from the mermaid, I recommend exploring Kastellet, a beautifully preserved 17th-century star-shaped fortress. Its peaceful ramparts and picturesque windmill are perfect for a relaxed stroll.
• You could then head towards Amalienborg Palace, the official winter home of the Danish Royal Family. Witnessing the changing of the guard is a classic experience, and the rococo architecture around the square is impressive. 
• Of course, no visit is complete without Nyhavn, Copenhagen's famous 17th-century waterfront with its brightly colored townhouses. It’s ideal for a meal by the canal or a scenic canal tour. 
• For something truly unique and thought-provoking, seek out "The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid," a modern, abstract sculpture near the original, offering a different artistic perspective.

For a deeper understanding of the city, using StoryHunt can be a great way to access audio stories about both famous spots and hidden gems, acting as your personal guide. Download StoryHunt for Android and iOS here.