Nordhavn: A neighbourhood guide
Area guide: Architectural Nordhavn
Nordhavn is the modern and innovative face of Copenhagen. Nordhavn has gone from a raw industrial port area to an attractive, independent neighbourhood with impressive, brand new Scandinavian architecture, and creative hub for design and architectural studios, all while retaining the charming atmosphere of living close to the water. And the best part? It's only a 15 min metro ride from City Centre.
The Århusgade district
If you arrive by metro or S-train at Nordhavn Station, you’ll step straight into the Århusgade district, the heart of Nordhavn. From here, wander through the neighbourhood’s streets and discover the mix of old industrial buildings and contemporary architecture that characterises the area.
Make your way towards Göteborg Plads and continue down to Sandkaj, where the neighbourhood opens up towards the water. Here, cafés, restaurants and life along the harbour bring another side of Nordhavn to its architectural surroundings.
A showcase of modern architecture
Nordhavn is one of Northern Europe’s largest urban development projects. The district has become a hotspot for contemporary architecture, new public spaces and innovative approaches to city planning.
Harbour bathing and the waterfront
In Nordhavn, the waterfront isn’t just something to look at. At Sandkaj, the promenade becomes a popular place to spend time by the water and go for a swim in the harbour. The official bathing zone is open year-round, with platforms leading into the water, a small jumping platform and two 60-metre swimming lanes.
In summer, Sandkaj is staffed by lifeguards from 1 June to 31 August between 10am and 6pm, while the bathing zone itself is open daily from 6am to 10pm throughout the year.
Where to eat and drink
Nordhavn’s food scene has grown alongside the neighbourhood itself, with cafés, bakeries, restaurants and bars dotted around the waterfront and Århusgade district. Whether you’re looking for coffee and pastries, a casual lunch or somewhere to settle in for dinner, there are plenty of places to make a food stop part of your visit.
How to get to Nordhavn
Getting to Nordhavn from central Copenhagen is easy. Take the M4 metro directly to Nordhavn Station, which brings you straight to the Århusgade district. Nordhavn is also served by S-trains, making public transport an easy starting point for exploring the neighbourhood on foot. If you have a Copenhagen Card, travel by metro and S-train is included.
Use the Journey Planner to find the quickest route from wherever you’re starting in Copenhagen.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is Nordhavn a good place to stay in Copenhagen?
Yes. Nordhavn is a good option if you want to stay close to the waterfront and modern architecture while still having easy access to central Copenhagen. The M4 metro connects Nordhavn directly with the city centre.
What is the nicest part of Copenhagen?
That depends on what you’re looking for. Nordhavn is particularly worth considering if you’re interested in contemporary architecture, urban development and life by the water. For a broader overview, explore our guide to Copenhagen’s neighbourhoods.
How do you get to Nordhavn from central Copenhagen?
The M4 metro is an easy way to reach Nordhavn from central Copenhagen, with stops including Kongens Nytorv and Rådhuspladsen before reaching Nordhavn Station. Once you arrive, you step directly into the Århusgade district.
Can you swim in Nordhavn?
Yes. Sandkaj is an official harbour bathing zone in Nordhavn and is open from 6am to 10pm all year round. Swimming is permitted within the designated bathing area, and lifeguards are on duty from 1 June to 31 August between 10am and 6pm.