Holmen is a water-bound neighborhood where you can discover maritime heritage, performance venues, eclectic galleries and dockside bars and restaurants. Although just a quick boat ride from central Copenhagen, this collection of islands feels worlds away from the city’s traditional tourist districts. Once the location of a naval base and dockyards, today Holmen is a showcase of historical landmarks, innovative businesses and entertainment.
See a slice of Denmark’s naval activities at Nyholm, where ships were built and launched from 1692 to 1918. The Nyholm Central Guardhouse and Masterkranen crane have changed little over 250 years. Experience the life of sailors onboard museum boats such as the HDMS Peder Skram, HDMS Sehested and Ubåden Sælen submarine.
Move to Refshaleøen, a creative district set on the site of what was once a huge shipyard. At Reffen street food market, over 50 stalls serve up flavors from all corners of the globe accompanied by live bands and DJs. Peruse avant-garde art exhibitions at Copenhagen Contemporary, relax in a waterside hot tub, go wake boarding and swim in canal pools. Book a table at the Michelin-starred Noma for a 20-course culinary experience.
On the island of Dokøen start-ups and performing arts academies occupy former naval warehouses. The magnificent Henning Larsen-designed Copenhagen Opera House, a venue for ballet, opera, orchestral and symphonic shows, dominates the waterfront. Attend a show and join a guided tour to learn about the theater’s architectural features and visit its auditorium and backstage.
Wherever you are along the waterfront, the views back towards the city center are exceptional. Enjoy the laidback atmosphere while spotting the Amalienborg Palace and Church of Our Savior, among other city landmarks.
Reach Holmen by taking a water bus from Nyhavn to any of the Operaen, Holmen Nord and Refshaleøen stops. Bus line 9A travels from Copenhagen Central Station to Refshaleøen. The neighborhood is about a 10-minute bike ride from the city center. Cross the canal via the bicycle and pedestrian only Inderhavnsbroen bridge.
