Explore Nordhavn
Nordhavn is a vibrant Copenhagen district where history meets modern architecture in unique harmony. Here, old warehouses have been transformed into shops and offices, while new buildings are rising in this former industrial area.
Along the waterfront, you’ll find small cafés, swimming zones, and green spaces – and an atmosphere that combines tranquility with the pulse of the city.
Hotel Frihavnen sits right at the heart of it all. A place where you can feel part of Copenhagen – and still retreat in peace.
The history of Nordhavn
Nordhavn's expansion began in the late 1800s to meet the demand for larger ships and a growing port industry. The first phase, Søndre Frihavn, was built between 1891 and 1894 as part of Copenhagen’s competition with German ports after the opening of the Kiel Canal. Before that, Redhavn and Nordbassinet (1885–1890) were established to serve anchored ships.
Around World War I, the port expanded further with Redmolen, Sundmolen, and Kronløbsbassinet (1915–1918). The Orient Basin was started in 1919, but only completed after WWII. Skudehavnen, originally on Levantkaj, gradually moved north and reached its current location in 1995/96 in the Fishing Harbour.
The development of Nordhavn
In 2007, a political decision was made to develop Nordhavn into a modern and sustainable district. An international design competition was held in 2008, and the winning entry became the foundation for the detailed development plan for Inner Nordhavn. From the beginning, the project included dialogue with citizens and stakeholders, and the first development plan – Århusgade Quarter – was adopted in 2011.
Land Reclamation and the future
Nordhavn continues to grow through land reclamation, using large quantities of soil from across Zealand – including excavations from the Metro City ring. The latest expansion at the northeastern tip of Nordhavn has increased Copenhagen’s land area by 1%.
