Denmark is a small Scandinavian country that punches far above its weight. It is a cultural powerhouse with renowned restaurants, designers, TV shows, and lifestyle concepts worldwide (does hygge ring a bell?) From its cosmopolitan capital to its sandy beaches, fairytale villages, and unique islands, the country is a delight to explore. It is easy to do so thanks to its efficient public transportation network. From castle and museum hopping to exploring sand dunes and Baltic shores, you'll find no end of things to do in Denmark.
Denmark’s summers boast long days and mild temperatures, creating the perfect conditions for exploring the country’s cities, countryside, and coastline. The nation’s top outdoor festivals are also packed between June and September, including musical events (Copenhagen Jazz Festival, Smukfest, and Aarhus Festuge), costumed Viking fairs (Moesgård Viking Moot), and both Copenhagen and Aarhus Pride. If your goal is to spot the northern lights, however, you’ll have to brave the chilly winter months instead.
Denmark’s DSB national rail network connects all major cities and most small towns. The system’s ticket machines are simple to use, and schedules are translated into English. (Download the DSB app to see timetables and purchase tickets.) You can also rent a car to explore the countryside and the coast, but note that car rentals in Denmark are heavily taxed, so check rates carefully. A few minor islands can only be reached by ferry, some of which allow vehicles on board.
Cosmopolitan Copenhagen is known for its international dining scene, and you can find everything from gourmet tacos to fusion ramen. For a traditional Danish meal of smørrebrød and schnapps, however, book a table at Restaurant Palaegade. The elegant restaurant, located just around the corner from the picturesque Nyhavn (or "New Harbor"), features updated versions of Denmark’s classic open-faced sandwiches. You’ll be surrounded by Danes, but the staff is welcoming (and English-speaking).
Local Currency Danish Krone (DKK) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +45 | Language(s) Danish | Attractions 49 | Tours 450 | Reviews 18,982 |
Denmark is famous for its attractive capital city, Copenhagen. It’s also known as the birthplace of fairytale maestro Hans Christian Andersen and for its royal family, excellent sweet pastries, and the cozy concept of hygge. Viking history, which can be seen in various places, is important to the country, too.
...MoreBeyond Copenhagen, there are many places to visit in Denmark, including Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerod, the gastronomic and cultural center of Aarhus, Kronborg Castle in Helsingor, Legoland in Billund, the dunes and heaths of Thy National Park in northern Jutland, and more.
...MoreVisitors can experience some of Denmark’s highlights in as few as two or three days. Denmark is a geographically small country, but there’s more to experience than just the capital, Copenhagen. To explore beyond Copenhagen, around one week would be ideal for most travelers.
...MoreSome consider Copenhagen, the capital with colorful Renaissance townhouses lining its canals, to be the prettiest in Denmark. Others think the White Cliffs of Mon, the fishing village of Skagen, or Kronborg or Frederiksborg castles are the prettiest. Whether due to nature or culture, there are many pretty spots in Denmark.
...MoreThree famous landmarks in Denmark are the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale; the 19th-century Tivoli Gardens amusement park in Copenhagen; and Kronborg Castle in Helsingor, which featured in Shakespeare’s famous play, Hamlet.
...MoreYes, many people in Denmark speak English, and they do it well. Although Danish is the first language of most Danish people, they learn English from a young age and are often conversational or fluent in English. Wherever you go, you will likely find people to communicate with in English.
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