Why should you visit Kastellet?
Honestly, I had no plans on visiting Kastellet when I visited Copenhagen. Most people say that the little mermaid statue isn’t worth visiting and is a bit of a tourist trap. But we had some extra time one morning so we wandered down to visit Kastellet to see what was there. Kastellet is so much more than just the statue, as it is one of the most well-preserved fortresses in Europe and has expansive grounds filled with nature and quintessential Danish vibes.
What you will find here
Here you will find my opinions on what to see when you visit Kastellet and how you can make the most of your time at Kastellet. This is based on my personal experience visiting Kastellet in September! If you want to know more about my 3 days in Copenhagen, you can check out my Danish guides.
What is there to do at Kastellet?
Visit the Little Mermaid sculpture
Honestly, I thought this was a great statue to go and view. When I visited, there were only a handful of other people stopping by to admire it. As someone who grew up with the 1975 Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid (アンデルセン童話 にんぎょ姫) anime version, this was eerie af to visit and just slightly heartbreaking.
Admire the red buildings
There are lots of red buildings lining the military base, and they’re so picture perfect!
Take a photo of the Søofficers-Foreningen building
This is a stunning daisy yellow building located in Kastellet down by the area of the Kastellet fort that the military still uses.
Kastelsmøllen windmill
I was certainly surprised to find out that there was a windmill in the city but hey, that is Denmark for you! You can’t go right up to it, but it is fun to admire.
Kastellet bridge
The Kastellet bridge is the main entrance to the park and has guards at the fort entrance but you can walk through when the park is open.
What are the best vegan eats near Kastellet?
Bistro Verde is about a 15 minute walk from Kastellet, just walk towards Nyhavn. You can also find my full guide for all my vegan recommendations for Copenhagen.
Where do find Bistro Verde
Sankt Annæ Pl. 22, 1250 København, Denmark
When is the best time to visit Kastellet?
I recommend going in the morning because that is when I went. This area is popular with locals going for morning walks but it is also a military area and a tourist destination due to the little mermaid statue so the earlier you go the more likely you can avoid the crowds. However, it is an expansive park so you will always be able to find a spot for yourself!
How do you get to Kastellet?
The easiest way to get to Kastellet is to walk or bike! But you can catch a train to Østerport St. which is just across the road from the western entrance. There is also a ferry wharf on the south-eastern side called Nordre Toldbod (Københavns Havn) if you want to take the waterboat (havnebussen).
What are the best hotels to stay in when visiting Kastellet?
If you’re planning to visit Kastellet then Babette Guldsmeden is just across the road from Kastellet and has a rooftop terrace!
Best places to book your trip
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🖤 Book a hotel with Booking.com (this is my favourite website to book hotels)
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🖤 Book experiences with Viator.com
🖤 Book experiences with GetYourGuide.com
🖤 Book a car with Rentalcars.com
🖤 Book lounge access for your airport with Priority Pass (I’m an airport lounge girlie)
VERDICT
Is Kastellet Worth A Visit?
Don’t let the naysayers tell you that Kastellet is a tourist trap. Yes, the Little Mermaid statue is just a statue, but it is an iconic location and I think Kastellet is so much more than just the Little Mermaid! It is a beautiful park with gorgeous buildings, lovely walkways, and stunning views.
Thanks for reading!
I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you’re on Instagram, you can find me over here: @apicturesquelife or youtube: @apicturesquelife and I’d be happy to connect!
xoxo,
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