The Little Mermaid is a small bronze sculpture on a rock at Langelinie, beside Copenhagen’s harbor. Created by Edvard Eriksen and unveiled in 1913, it draws on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale about a mermaid who longs to join the human world. The statue is a brief stop, but the waterfront walk and nearby green spaces give you more to see along the way. Pair it with a visit to Kastellet, or take in the harbor views before heading back toward the city.
The statue and its story
The Little Mermaid sits on a rock beside the water at Langelinie, looking out toward the harbor. Edvard Eriksen created the bronze sculpture, which was unveiled in 1913 as a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen and his fairy tale. In the story, a mermaid gives up her life under the sea in the hope of joining the prince she loves on land. Her pose by the water gives the statue its quiet, longing mood.
The sculpture was a gift to Copenhagen from brewer Carl Jacobsen. He became interested in the character after seeing a ballet based on the tale. The statue’s connection to Andersen’s story has made it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
What to expect at Langelinie
The statue is modest in size, so it can look smaller in person than it does in photographs. The viewing area is also popular and can feel crowded, especially when people gather for close-up pictures. You can still see the mermaid from farther along the waterfront if you prefer not to wait for space near the rock.
Allow time for the setting as well as the sculpture. Langelinie has open waterfront paths, and the walk can be part of the visit. The surrounding area includes green space, fountains, bridges and pathways. In April, cherry blossoms add seasonal color to the route.
Combine it with Kastellet
Kastellet is close enough to include on the same walk. The historic fortress is now used as a public park, with paths through its grounds. Visiting both gives you more to explore than the statue alone, particularly if you want a longer stroll by the water.
The route is exposed to the weather, and food options nearby are limited. On a cold or windy day, plan accordingly. For a quieter stop, aim for early morning or late afternoon, or visit early in the week.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is The Little Mermaid statue?
It stands on a rock beside the harbor at Langelinie in Copenhagen.
Who created The Little Mermaid statue?
Sculptor Edvard Eriksen created it. The statue was unveiled in 1913 as a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale.
Is The Little Mermaid statue free to visit?
Yes. The statue is outdoors at the waterfront and can be visited without an entry ticket.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 10 to 30 minutes for the statue. Add time if you plan to walk along the waterfront or visit Kastellet nearby.
When is the best time to visit The Little Mermaid?
Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter visit. Cherry blossoms can be seen in the area in April.
