Traveling on a tour boat along the canal is a very helpful way to get an overview of the city. We chose the Nyhavn canal tour. It is in the center of town, and was right outside our hotel.
One of the first things you notice is how low the bridges are along the canal. This was originally done to keep larger ships and boats out of the center of town. When approaching these bridges you need to be seated, and some of them are so narrow that you have to keep arms inside. So don’t let yourself get carried away with the photography, that you literally lose your head.
Low Bridge Over Nyhavn Canal Photo by Daren R. Couch
The North side (odd numbers) of the canal has the townhouses made of wood, bricks and plaster were considered the poor side. The oldest house, which is dated from 1661 is No. 9. That side of the canal now has brightly colored town house style buildings that are occupied by trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques. It is a great transformation from what used to be considered the seedy side of town.
Colorful townhouses and sailboats Photo by Daren R. Couch
The South side (even numbers) was the side built with solid brick or blocks, and was the mansion side of the canal. Or, the upper class side.
South Side of Canal Photo by Daren R. Couch
Hans Christian Anderson lived at Nyhavn, along the canal for 18 years. Living at 20, 67, and 18. At 18, where he rented 3 furnished rooms, there is a small museum.
One section of the canal in front of the entertainment section has old wooden sail boats and boats, as a sort of museum. Also, in some areas along the canal there are a few house boats that are lived in either part time, or full time.
Full Time Living Houseboat Photo by Daren R. Couch
One of the outstanding things with the tour, was the observation in the contrast of architecture in Copenhagen. My next post will highlight the architecture.
Globe Trottin Granny
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Hope you enjoy seeing the highlights of our visit of Copenhagen!