The Little Mermaid

Small statue, big crowds. The place is super busy as there are organized tours to see the statue by land and water. I took public transport and walked along the nearby park and enjoyed spending time at the place as it's serene to just sit down at the benches and enjoy the views, further away from the crowds. It's a nice experience if you don't go there just for the statue. But the statue is nice to see in person.

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is one of the city’s most iconic and Important landmarks It is smaller than many expect, there's something truly special and peaceful about seeing it in person. It is on a rock by the water’s edge, the statue beautifully captures the delicate and art of Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale. The setting adds to the charm — It’s the kind of place where you naturally pause, surrounded by gentle waves, passing boats, and a quiet sense of calm despite the many visitors nearby. I Liked most was how such a simple sculpture could carry so importance. It’s not grand or flashy, but rather graceful and simple. There is also a story behind it. it’s often crowded, especially during peak hours, Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening can make it feel more personal and serene. If you’re in Copenhagen, visiting the Little Mermaid is part of the tour. but to enjoy a quiet, simple moment by the sea. A small statue with a big story. We visited in the morning and it was nto very crowded. If you take the hop on hop off it is . very convenient and can spend the time

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is one of the city’s most iconic and beloved landmarks — and for good reason. Though it may be smaller than many expect, there's something truly special and peaceful about seeing it in person. Set on a rock by the water’s edge, the statue beautifully captures the delicate and melancholic spirit of Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale. The setting adds to the charm — surrounded by gentle waves, passing boats, and a quiet sense of calm despite the many visitors nearby. It’s the kind of place where you naturally pause, reflect, and take in the atmosphere. What I appreciated most was how such a simple sculpture could carry so much emotion and cultural meaning. It’s not grand or flashy, but rather graceful and poetic — much like the story behind it. Yes, it’s often crowded, especially during peak hours, but I still found the experience rewarding. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening can make it feel more personal and serene. If you’re in Copenhagen, visiting the Little Mermaid is a must — not just to check it off a list, but to enjoy a quiet, meaningful moment by the sea. A small statue with a big heart.

An iconic attraction to go see in Denmark. Was very easy to get to, just with a train. The statue is small and full with people but you can easily get close to the statue with no issue and other tourists will give you space to take photos. There was also a very cute park around and nice restaurants with a terrace view that I didn’t expect so I would recommend exploring the area as well.

Yes, it’s small — but it’s a must-see when in Copenhagen. The setting by the water is peaceful, and the statue itself is full of character. It’s one of those places where the journey and the vibe matter as much as the sight. Great for a quick stop, photos, and ticking off a classic from your travel list!

Why ? Why is this place the main attraction in Copenhagen ? It was not on my list but friends suggested that it would be unacceptable to miss it. I was not marvel at the statue. Honestly, there has been more statues that are better looking in terms of artistic value than this. Maybe some influencer hyped it up.

Of course, its a must see 😀. She is small and although there are a lot of people i could easily find a spot for photos ! Expect many boats in the background too 😀. But most important, read the history of this mermaid before coming here - its real horror story, a bit.

Pretty statue that you should see if you love the fairytale of the Little Mermaid. Gets pretty crowded when tour buses pull up, so you won't want to linger long. Rather than walking all the way out along the harbour front just to see the statue, walk through the Kastellet fort with its peaceful moat and windmill, which is well worth seeing for itself.

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is an iconic must see landmark. Perched gracefully on a rock by the harbor, she's smaller than I expected but perfectly captures a feeling of quiet beauty and longing. The setting by the water adds to her charm and makes the experience feel uniquely Danish. Having also seen the replica in Solvang, California, I appreciate the tribute, but there's something about the original in Copenhagen that feels so much more authentic and meaningful. If you're in Copenhagen, make time to visit and enjoy the statue's peaceful presence, it's a simple but memorable piece of Danish culture.

Obviously a must-see on your Copenhagen trip. We started here on our full day of exploring the city. It would be great if there were little shops or cafes in the vicinity.

Cute but underwhelming. Also didn't expect the buses of tourists crowding the area which also made the experience underwhelming. If you take the river Dot taxi, the drop-off point is a quick ten minute walk. Then you can quickly turn around to check out gifeon fountain and make your way back into main part of town.

It's definitely a bucket list item. Don't expect to be wowed, and it's a bit out there from the main tourist area. Take some pics and call it a day lol

As far as iconic local statues go, Den lille Havfrue (The Little Mermaid) is worth the short look you need to enjoy it. Gayle and I certainly did, including the surrounding neighborhood and water views. The bronze statue was designed by Edvard Eriksen and unveiled in 1913. It's based on the 1837 fairy tale (of the same name) by Hans Cristian Andersen and depicts a mermaid becoming human. I could have sworn that I first saw this statue in Nyhavn when I visited Copenhagen in the early 1980s, but I guess that's old age for you!

"But a mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more..." - Hans Christian Andersen Every great European city has a gigantic landmark to claim it's own. Paris has the Eiffel, Rome has the Colosseum, London has Big Ben, and København has Den Lille Hafvrue. All 4-feet tall of her quietly sitting on a boulder, where the North Sea meets the Baltic. To me, it's not the size that matters, it's the story of the Little Mermaid... I believe in fairytales. The statue dates to 1913 (sculptor Edvard Eriksen) and honors Den Lille Hafvrue by Hans Christian Andersen, written almost 200-years ago in Denmark. She might be underwhelming to some, but to me, it's all about the story of unrequited love. Those that complain or don't appreciate this little landmark probably expected a 25-foot Ariel, right? All those Disney fans complaining about the long walk to get to her, complaining about how tiny she is, complaining about this and that *sigh*. Did you know Den Lille Hafvrue, didn't even have a name! No one named Ariel here, but Prince Eric was, well... Oh, it's a sad story by Hans Christian Andersen - sad with many emotional moments, but it's also so very beautiful. After all this is not the Disney version, this is the original, Den Lille Hafvrue. A story for unrequited love, for the persistent, those that hope, foolhardy love that continues quietly even as it is unappreciated, unrecognized, and unseen. This is her true story... the story of The Little Mermaid. I confess I'm an old soul, that has traveled the world for many years, decades, yes even centuries. To me, the long walk to Den Lille Hafvrue was enjoyable with many Nordic and historical sites along the way. And yes, maybe, just maybe, Prince Eric did not reciprocate the love she gave me in 1837, but I'm here to finally tell you how much I love you... A story for unrequited love. I will love you forever.

The Little Mermaid is a "must see" when in Copenhagen. This iconic little lady is worth the journey, offering many beautiful statues along the way. For best opportunity, visit her earlier in the morning. Late morning and later results in abundance of tourists taking photos, crowding the statue, and tour boats passing through.

My trip to Copenhagen would not have been complete if I didn't see The Little Mermaid statue, even though it was a bit out of the way. I knew we arrived when I saw the tour buses and crowds. I took my picture and went on my way.

I had already read reviews beforehand so I knew that the Little Mermaid statue was fairly small. As a result, I was not disappointed like others. I was also lucky enough to come when there was no crowd. It is a small, human sized bronze statue that sits on a rock. Built in 1913, it is based on the fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. It is one of those things people go to for a quick photo to say that they've been there.

Quite underwhelming, but cool to spot when in the area. I don't know that I'd go out of my way again to come sea this statue, but that being said it was cool to see it in person. The waterfront where it is located is quite beautiful and worth to visit, though.

It was a bit of a jaunt from the main city to see the little mermaid. She sits quietly waiting for passerby's and as remote as her rock and location. We all come to take a glimpse. She sits quietly and so peacefully. What was the story about this little mermaid? Is she still waiting for her young human prince to come from the land. Beautiful bronze and the granite rock she is perched on. She still looks great and hasn't been worse from the torrent of water hitting her over the years.

I guess I was here except the other cruise ship tour groups blocked my view. So we just walked on.

The Little Mermaid statue, along with the Astronomical Clock in Prague, almost always tops the list of "most disappointing tourist attractions." So...just know what to expect! (although *I* think the clock is actually pretty cool...) I guess since my expectations were appropriately tempered, I got just what I was hoping for. A small statue on a rock, set just a bit in to the water, surrounded by an obscene number of tourists streaming off buses to get one picture each before loading back on their bus to move on to the next attraction. There isn't much else around, attraction-wise. So we decided to walk through the nearby park and Kastellet after popping by to visit the mermaid. Basically, it is literally *just* a statue overrun by tourists. Know what to expect and make plans to continue entertaining yourself after you get your glimpse and your photo. My guess is you will be visiting, because...everyone who goes to Copenhagen does. But...eh. It's give or take.

Most cities have an unofficial symbol of the city. Brussels has the Mannekin Pis (a fountain of a little boy having a pee), Madrid has El Oso y el Madroño (a bear and a tree), New York has the Statue of Liberty and København has The Little Mermaid. Den Lille Havfrue is a simple statue of a topless mermaid, wistfully looking out to sea. She is only about 10 feet (three meters) from the shoreline, so the placement is ideal for getting your selfie. There is not much here with the statue other than some benches, an ice cream shack and a LOT of tourists. The location is not convenient for walking and it's not close to a metro station, but I made the walk because I like to walk in new places. If you've come all this way, head to The Genetically Modified Little Mermaid.

I grew up with the original little mermaid fairy tale well before the Disney one came out so I had to make a quick pit stop to see the statue. The statue is small and would easily be missed if it wasn't for the crowd of people snapping photos. The view of the water behind the statue give it a lovely backdrop and it was really a beautiful area. She sits on a rock pedestal just off the water's edge, looking away in thought..gentle and awaiting her prince. We took a few photos and had to hurry up and be on our way. I can see why some people are disappointed because the statue is not a commanding presence, but then again the Little Mermaid herself was initially mute but that made her no less stunning or captivating if you took the time to look upon her.

Like most others, my heart was set on seeing the Little Mermaid someday- after watching Ariel and Disney's version of her. Well, scratch it off the list, I don't need to go back again. This is one of those things that if you've seen it once, took your obligatory tourist picture, then you don't need to do it twice. I felt exactly the same seeing Mannekin Pis in Brussels. Oh well, it's a double edge sword. I would feel regret in place of disappointment, if I went all the way to Copenhagen from Hawaii, and did NOT go see the Little Mermaid. Damned if I do, damned if I don't. This was a stop on the red line (Mermaid line) of the red buse's Hop On Hop Off tour. All in all, it took about 15 minutes to get off bus, watch about a hundred people jockey to take a picture close to the statue, then go get back on the bus. I'm glad I went to see it, but I'm glad I go it out of the way, so next time I'm there, I don't need to go again. Once is required, but enough.

Copenhagen's iconic fairytale landmark: The Little Mermaid statue is recommended to visit at least once. It's small and super touristy as there's always an overwhelming amount of tourists huddling around to take their obligatory pictures (I was one of them). I didn't have high expectations coming here but it was great seeing the statue in person and appreciating Denmark's history.

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without a visit to The Little Mermaid. I know, it's only a statue and a pretty small one at that but for me it has a certain serene beauty. The more you look at it the more mesmerizing it becomes. I equate The Little Mermaid to a fine painting, its only a painting why get excited over The Mona Lisa but everyone does. The Little Mermaid has that same quality. Located north of the Nyhavn harbor, it's a nice walk along a pedestrian walkway.

It's tough to really judge this statue. On the one hand, you "have to stop by cause you're in Denmark" and on the other, it's just a statue. The statue itself is pretty small, and the hundreds of people swarming around it doesn't help. I didn't even go down to it because I just felt it wasn't worth my time. All this being said, if you're visiting Denmark, you'll probably stop by anyways because it's the thing to do. Definitely stop by Kastellet for a nice walk and view after!

The Little Mermaid is actually on the small side, all of four feet tall. Follow the crowds or use a Hop On Hop Off to near the fountain then turn right and walk down to the water's edge. There she sits on a rock about five feet from the shoreline. If you're brave or stupid you can jump the fence and climb some rocks to sit next to her for pictures. But you mess up everyone else's pictures. Plus respect the statue. The Little Mermaid is a bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen. He based her on the fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. She has been an icon and a major tourist attraction since 1913. Unfortunately in recent years she has become a target by vandals.

Ok, she is quite small with her 1.25m. And many wonder why she is such a huge attraction. Well I guess it's in the Eye of the Beholder. Even though small and "just" another statue she is an impressive sight. The mermaid sitting here with the wonderful views in the back. To get here you can walk along the charming Larsens Plads (the waterfront), which is quite rewarding. The mermaid herself is based on the famous Andersen fairytale. She is sitting here now for over a hundred years. And I thinks the statue is well worth visiting. We got here around 11am and there were surprisingly few visitors yet, so we were able to get some good shots (but soon after loads of busses arrived). Surely - besides the Amalienborg and Nyhavn - a must-do when in Copenhagen.

The Little Mermaid. So beautiful; so serene. Located at the end of a lovely bridge through a park. See her looking toward land looking for her lost love.

To be honest...this place is very overrated. One photo, and that's it. I know that it's a major staple of Copenhagen, but it's NOT something that's a hidden gem. Yes, it's pretty. But it's not a sparkle. Look throughout the city and people can find things that really **sparkle** and make a bigger statement.

I walked here from Nyhavn because I had a break and it was a pretty good walk. I automatically knew where it was when I saw the crowd to people surround The Little Mermaid. However, I couldn't see her just yet. When I came closer, I was pretty disappointed because I expected something bigger. She was pretty much just the size of a grown woman sitting on a rock. The day I went, I think part of her was also missing. There's so many people trying to stand next to her taking pictures, that there's hardly a free moment to capture a full shot. In addition, her features don't really stand out. I guess you can say she's not very photogenic... Anyway, I think it's just one of those things you have to see because it's iconic. The waterfront and the ambiance around it was really pretty though. A great place to picnic and hang out!

This is such a popular and famous attraction in Copenhagen Denmark. I thought she would be larger. Turns out that, the Little Mermaid is an accurate description of her. We spotted her from our canal boat tour. So, I only got to see her back. She is probably better viewed and admired from land. Although I found this statue of the Little Mermaid to be underwhelming, any tourist should still visit her when in Copenhagen. If I ever find myself in Copenhagen again, I'd come by to see what I'm missing from viewing her from land. Til then, 3 stars!

For some reason that's really beyond me, The Little Mermaid has become the most famous tourist destination in all of Copenhagen. She must have a fucking fantastic publicist, because Copenhagen is an insanely beautiful city with a long, rich history, and this statue is like four feet tall and not even that old. Like I get that Hans Christian Andersen is a Danish icon, but this statue was unveiled in 1913, decades after he died. I mean my house is almost the same age. According to Wikipedia, The Little Mermaid is among the iconic statues that symbolize cities--like the Statue of Liberty or Christ the Redeemer, which are both somewhat taller than I am. All that said, you still have to go look at it as long as you're in town. You'll find the statue mobbed by people, so you won't even get a great selfie. It is attractive, I'll give it that, a bronze statue of a mermaid displayed on a big rock. The best part is the Langelinie, the scenic waterfront pier/park/promenade where The Little Mermaid resides. The walk there was also wonderful. Copenhagen is just a lovely place, and we were happy to have a destination that got us exploring the city on foot. We were staying in central Copenhagen, and the Langelinie was about a forty-minute walk away. We enjoyed the journey, as well as the calming views over the water. In short, don't expect too much from The Little Mermaid herself, and consider walking or biking instead of taking a cab. The statue is worth the visit if you take time to savor its surroundings.

I was probably the only one not disappointed because I did my research before going to the statue - haha! I knew it was going to be small. Don't be disappointed by its size, it's still a very historical part of the city and the literature that comes out of it.

This iconic Copenhagen landmark can indeed be underwhelming if you are not privy to the original Hans Christian Andersen story, or the story behind the sculptor who modeled this figure after his wife. It's true, you'll have to wait for an opportune time to take a photo with, or of the statue. That's part of the challenge when going to a tourist destination! The surrounding park is beautiful, you can rent bikes nearby, the marina is close... and on a clear day - it's simply breathtaking. This is undeniably a must-see for those Copenhagen visitors who haven't seen it previously.

Couple options for viewing the statue. If you take the cannel ride they will park near the statue and you can skip the crowds to take a pic. If you want to take a pic next to it than you'll have to go to the shore and the site itself and line up. If your near the seaport or coming from a cruise you can walk there in about 30 mins. If you don't care about history l, Little mermaid or statues go the other direction and just go into town.

09/07/17 I must say the first time I saw the statue I was a little disappointed at her size. But upon returning to Copenhagen my kids wanted to it it. This statue is an icon in Denmark. It really is a tourist trap. This little statue of the Little Mermaid from the renown Danish Author Hans Christian Andersen. The statue was commissioned in 1909 by Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of Carlsberg. The sculptor Edvard Eriksen completed his bronze statue in 1913. The poor Mermaid has had several bouts of vandalism through the years. Vandals have painted her, stole her, and beheaded her and more. She sits approximately 4 feet tall atop her harbor rock. Both the boat and bus hop on hop off tours go to this location.

Prior to going to Copenhagen, many of my friends told me that the statue would be anti-climatic. So, when I finally saw it in-person, I didn't have high expectations. But, when you think of Copenhagen, you think of The Little Mermaid Statue. It is a must-see when you visit. I went into it thinking...this is something to cross off my bucket list since it is my very first time in Denmark! To be honest, I enjoyed my walk to the statue rather than seeing the statue itself. It is a small statue laying on a rock next to the water. Don't get me wrong, it is a nice statue. But, it is also overcrowded with tourists taking selfies. I was lucky enough to not have photo-bombers in the photos I took. The surrounding area is quite relaxing. There is a fort, a picturesque church and fountain statue. I walked the length of the harbour and I was able to people watch along the way. SO, should you go or not? If it is your very, very first time in Copenhagen, DO IT! Then, you don't ever have to visit the Little Mermaid again. :)

The little mermaid is definitely not a site to be missed- but only because Copenhagen is known for the statue. She's underwhelming and basic- don't expect too much. Too many people crowding the statue and braving the cold and rainy weather that made the experience not too pleasant. Glad I got to check her off my list- on to the next one!

One of the most sought out tourist attractions in Copenhagen. I honestly didn't know about this statue until my mom requested that a picture of it be one of the things I bring her back from my trip. We went at a time were it was busy, but not as busy as expected. The story behind this monument is interesting. We as Americans and other nationals LOVE the Little Mermaid, but in Denmark they are not as enthusiastic. We were told of how the statue has been chopped up and abused because of this. I believe her arms have been also cut off before. I would say if you love the Mermaids please make your way to it. They also have a nice gift shop tucked away by it where you can use Euros as well as Danish Krones which was a pleasant surprise. So happy that I was able to see this! Grade: B+

I think the original story of The Little Mermaid is much better than the Disney's version but I do get that they have to make it a bit more kid friendly. Though, I'm not sure Ursula is exactly kid friendly, but you get my point. I think Disney makes Ariel to be a bit too much of a pushover and gives up her talent for some prince she barely knows, so to me, I rather stick with the original story. This statue is really cute, it's a bit small but she overlooks the water and she attracts a lot of visitors. If you're here, try to come when the vans and bus tours aren't there. We couldn't get a picture of a couple without being bombarded with selfie sticks hitting us and tons of people taking photos of the exact same thing. We bought an ornament and little trinket back to our daughter and called it a day.

So what do you say about a girl who sits half-naked on a rock 24/7? I have to admit I didn't have high expectations about the Little Mermaid. I just kept reading in all the guidebooks that it is the must-see attraction of Copenhagen, but here's the thing - it's kind of a hassle to get to its seaside perch if you don't have a vehicle and you're depending on the metro to get around. However, if you take one of the canal cruises, you can stop at the nearby pier, get off and take your photo, and get back on the boat in about five minutes. She's only four feet tall and just the most unimposing thing you ever saw. Anorexic, I think. What I found interesting was the gall of some tourists - usually Italians or Germans from what I heard - who climb up on the rock to take their photos with total disregard for anyone else snapping their shots. You kinda hope they'll slip on the rocks and get a concussion, but darn the luck, it just didn't happen. Five minutes. That's all you need to look at the Little Mermaid (see the photos), and you can check it right off your sad little bucket list.

The statue is pretty small and it's just as much of a tourist trap as everyone says. It's a zoo, but if you like the Little Mermaid, it's worth stopping by to see. Just know what to expect going in. If you do go, definitely go see the Genetically Modified Little Mermaid statue down the street. It's much better and no one is down there

Nothing is more sad than Hans Christian Andersen's "Den Lille Havfrue" ("The Little Mermaid"). The Little Mermaid turned 15 years old, went to the surface of the ocean and saw a prince, went to the Sea Witch so she can have legs in turn for her tongue. The prince ends up marrying a princess and the Little Mermaid turns into sea foam because she didn't get her kiss from her true love. Although, I wanted our trip to see the Little Mermaid to be Disney-like -it was more HC Andersen-esque after walking 5 miles and a swarm of tourists with fanny packs covered the statue. There was a Sakura Festival nearby too which drew a large crowd of people dressed in anime costumes to this area. After I took a few pictures of the Little Mermaid, I couldn't wait to leave. There's nothing else to do here.

Seeing the statue seems to be the thing to do in Copenhagen. It is a long walk from the city center. When you arrive, the first two observations are: a) the statue is very small and b) the setting is industrial and not particularly attractive. Even though I had been told those things, I made the walk. I suspect that you too will walk to the statue and have similar feelings.

One tough mermaid The Little Mermaid is a bronze statue made by Edvard Erikson and was unveiled in 1913. It is of course based on the character in a Hans Christian Anderson fairytale that gives up identity as a mermaid to gain a human soul. Over the decades the poor little mermaid has had her head and arm cut off, paint thrown on her, been blown off her pedestal and vandalized in countless ways by idiotic, ostentatious and self centered political groups and various individual lunatics. But she always gets cleaned up and put together so she can get climbed over and gawked at again by tourists and local Danish school kids. She's just a little thing and honestly not very impressive. The Little Mermaid sort of reminds me of Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. You go there and stare at it for thirty seconds and then start to wander away and think about what you're going to have for lunch. No, she's not all that stunning or impressive and definitely a bit underwhelming. But she is one tough little gal that keeps putting up with all the stupidity and egotistical arrogance that humans can throw at her but perseveres and keeps coming back. And for that alone The Little Mermaid deserves five stars.

I suppose a trip to Copenhagen would not be complete without a stop to see its most famous inhabitant. Like Mona Lisa, she is probably not as large as you might think. It is most unfortunate that the damage that has befallen her is visible: her legs, arms, even her head at one point. She really needs a statue of her friend Sebastian out there to keep her company. Ban the selfie sticks. Just take your photo and move on.

I had no idea this thing existed. My spouse mentioned something about a Little Mermaid statue. Of course I was thinking Disney, and wondering what all the fuss is about. Luckily we were on a cruise and the dock was close by so we walked over. The 15 minute walk was through a quaint park. The statue is perched on a rock very close to shore so photo ops were great. There are benches along the park walkway if you want to take in the views of the harbor and relax. OVERALL: A nice, free attraction to see.

Yes it's a tourist trap. Yes the actual venue is a let down compared to what the postcard pictures would have you believe. Yes it needs an electric fence to prevent tourists from constantly climbing the poor thing. Yet here I was. The attraction is the crazy tourists trying to "preserve memories." 5 stars.

Blink and youll miss it! Seriously, when I saw the crowd of people by the water I just thought they were in line to buy a hot dog. The Little Mermaid is cool, but I guess maybe I was just expecting more? It's literally a little statue by the water, very underwhelming. If I wasn't staying within a 10 minute walking distance I probably wouldn't have been bothered. The only good thing and that because its by the water the path will lead you on to more (and I'm my opinion, better) attractions so its not a total write-off.

picture time! super touristy spot. Good to check out if you're here. The park is really nice to walk around too.

The rare statue from novelist HC Andersen, The Little Mermaid remains a popular tourist destination in Copenhagen thanks to the Disney Film and although a good photo opportunity the surrounding sculptures and gardens are what makes the walk worthwhile. Constantly besieged by tourists be prepared for a few minutes wait for a photo, then spend the rest of the time admiring the route.

We schlepped across the city for this lady. I wanted to fall in love. Instead I was underwhelmed. It was crowded with people both on the rocks and on the water. The statue itself was small and the mermaid fin was actually two feet. Now - if you're visiting the city OF COURSE YOU SHOULD GO. Just manage your expectations and consider a boat or bus ride to loop around and integrate the statue into your day. Maybe pre-read the little mermaid by HCA to hype yourself up

Appreciating The Little Mermaid is a matter of setting expectations. Deciding to visit is a matter of understanding she is at the beginning (or end) of a staggeringly beautiful and very enjoyable walk along the waterfront. For better or worse, she is a lovely more or less life-size sculpture of a mermaid set on a rock a few feet from the shoreline beset by far, far too many people attempting to take selfies. As usual, early and late are your best times to visit. That said, she was for our seven person/three generation family the starting point for a wonderful walk along the shoreline that took in a small park with a fun playground (Langelinie Park), the magnificent Gefion Fountain, the stunningly beautiful St Alban's Church, the historic (and rompable) fortifications and cannon of the Kastellet, and Churchill park.

The nicest part about The Little Mermaid statue is the walk to get there. The pathway is relatively nice along the river and you can see a various number of attractions one may want to visit along the way. I was warned by a friend that it was not much to look at and it was smaller than one might expect. I learned that it was an actual gift to Copenhagen, which I thought was interesting. Apparently you're not allowed to publish the photo either despite its popularity and the # of people who do take photos of it (and goodness there are many). Lots of tourists crowd around it (by the busloads). I love Hans Christian Anderson's "The Little Mermaid" (which is very different from the Disney version...much more tragic), but I wasn't particularly impressed with it. But, since it is a thing to do in Copenhagen, I can say I saw it and took a picture of it. Much like the Mona Lisa ;)

You can't visit Copenhagen without visiting The Little Mermaid. The bronze statue is gorgeous. Sculpted by Edvard Eriksen in 1913, the head is modeled after ballerina Ellen Price but the sculptor's wife, Eline Eriksen, was used for the body as Price didn't want to model in the nude. Displayed on a rock by the waterside at Langelinie promenade, the statue is only a little over 4 feet tall and based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale of the same name. Although a major tourist attraction, the statue has unfortunately become a popular target for vandalism in recent decades by political activists. Even though the statue is a lot smaller than expected, it's still very pretty and worth a visit. A little bit of climbing up and down rocks over water is necessary, but it's not too difficult to get to. Officials have considered moving the statue several meters out into the harbor to discourage vandalism and prevent tourists from climbing onto it, so visit before that ever happens!