Kanalhuset is a place to stay in Christianshavn, the harbour district that Christian IV built in the seventeenth century in the Dutch style, with canals, moored boats and tall old merchant houses. It is one of the most atmospheric parts of Copenhagen, and it is quieter than the old town once the day trippers leave. From here you can walk to the Church of Our Saviour with its spiral tower, to Freetown Christiania and to the waterfront restaurants along the canal, and Christianshavn Station on the metro takes you to the airport or the city centre in minutes. The area is also ideal for cycling and for exploring on foot, with bridges leading to Holmen, the Opera House and the harbour. Kanalhuset is a smaller property, so details differ from large hotels: check the room categories, bed types, breakfast, and facilities such as lifts and parking when you book. Rates are moderate by Copenhagen standards, and the neighbourhood itself is part of the value, because the restaurants and cafes are excellent and the streets are beautiful at any time of day. As in most of the old districts, buildings can have steep stairs and limited space, so ask about accessibility if you need it.
Christianshavn has a village feel in the middle of the capital. In the morning you can walk along the canal to a bakery, then cross the bridge to the old town; in the afternoon you can sit by the water with a coffee; in the evening the restaurants around Torvegade and Wildersgade fill with locals. The Church of Our Saviour is one of the great viewpoints of the city, and Christiania is a short walk from the hotel.
Getting around is easy. The metro at Christianshavn Station connects to the centre and the airport, bike rental is available nearby, and the harbour buses call at the quays. Because the district is on the edge of the centre, you can reach Nyhavn on foot in about twenty minutes, and the Opera House and Holmen are an enjoyable walk across the bridges.
Who it suits
Couples, repeat visitors and travellers who want a peaceful base with character, and those who prefer neighbourhood life to the busiest parts of the old town. It is also a good choice for visitors interested in architecture and photography. If you want a large hotel with a spa and a pool, the more formal options in this guide are better; if you want a base in the canals, this is the place.
Why stay here
- ✓Christianshavn canal district
- ✓Metro at Christianshavn Station
- ✓Walk to Christiania
- ✓Walk to the Church of Our Saviour
- ✓Cafes and restaurants nearby
- ✓Easy bike hire nearby
- ✓Walk to the Opera House
- ✓Quiet streets at night
Good questions
Where is Kanalhuset?+
In Christianshavn, the canal district near the Church of Our Saviour and Christiania.
How do I get to the city centre?+
Christianshavn Station on the metro is nearby, and the old town is a walk across the bridges.
Are there lifts and parking?+
Details vary by property, so check the facilities and accessibility notes when you book.
