denmark travel tips

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Denmark Itinerary

Last Updated on February 13, 2024

by Emily Marty

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Denmark is a very popular tourist destination, and the perfect visit to this stunning Nordic nation wouldn’t be complete without a proper Denmark itinerary. If you’re planning on spending 5 to 7 days in Denmark, then read on! This trip outline covers the country’s highlights, as well as some lesser-known attractions that are well worth a visit in their own right. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Denmark?

A key part of planning any holiday is figuring out how many days to spend at your destination. If you’re putting together an itinerary for a trip to Denmark, you’re probably wondering what the minimum length of time you’ll want to spend there to get a feel for the place is. 

Naturally, this varies somewhat from person to person, and will largely depend on what you like to do on your holidays, as well as what appeals to you about visiting Denmark in the first place.

With that in mind, trying to spend at least 5 days in Denmark is advisable, as it will allow you to visit a few of the country’s major cities and ensure that you don’t feel rushed in going from point A to point B. 

Bear in mind that both Denmark and its cities are remarkably compact, so getting around is generally quick and straightforward. In fact, you can see a great deal of the country in just five days as a result 

Having said that, you’re hardly going to run out of things to do if you end up spending one week in Denmark, instead.

Having an extra couple of days in the Nordic nation means you can visit some of the countryside, for example, or explore some of its nature reserves or even head to places like Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød or Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, several of which are fairly easy to access from the cities.

On the other hand, if you only have 3 days in Denmark or less, then plan on spending that in Copenhagen and maybe heading out on a day trip from the capital rather than planning to explore Denmark in its entirety. 

Getting To & Around Denmark 

One of the best things about visiting Denmark is how easy it is to get around once you’ve arrived in the country. Let’s be honest – Denmark is definitely on the smaller size, especially compared to other Nordic and Scandinavian countries like Norway , Sweden and Finland .

Combine this with the comprehensive and reliable Danish train network, which will take you to just about any town or city with ease (and often in a fairly short span of time, too), and Denmark is pretty much the ideal destination if you’re planning on travelling without a car. 

In fact, Denmark is perhaps one of the few countries in Europe where hiring a car has arguably next to no benefit beyond the flexibility that it offers.

Rail services in Denmark will get you pretty much anywhere a car can in the same amount of time, and, naturally, if you end up hiring a car for your trip, you’ll need to worry about parking, paying for petrol, and so on. 

Buses represent another great alternative to travelling by car in Denmark. Much of the country is well-serviced by buses, tickets for which tend to be on the more affordable side, compared to equivalent train services. You can view train & bus schedules here.

As far as airports are concerned, flying into Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport, which is Denmark’s largest, will give you access to the greatest range of airlines and flight routes.

Conveniently, you can take the local metro service directly from the airport into downtown Copenhagen and Copenhagen Central Station, which usually only takes around 15-20 minutes.

The country’s other major airports are near the cities of Aarhus, Aalborg, Billund, and Odense.

5 to 7-Day Denmark Itinerary 

This itinerary will see you arriving in Copenhagen, the country’s cosy capital. After spending a few days there, you’ll be moving onto Aarhus, where you’ll spend a couple of days; this is where the five-day version of the itinerary ends.

If you decide to stay for 7 days in Denmark, then you’ll be heading to Aalborg for days 6 and 7 of the trip. 

Day 1 – Copenhagen 

For day 1 of your trip, you’ll be arriving in Copenhagen ! A city with seemingly endless charm and charisma, Copenhagen is the historic and unique capital of Denmark and is home to beautiful architecture, quaint canals, and plenty to do and see. 

Why not start your holiday off with a bang and visit some of the city’s royal palaces? The castles of Rosenborg, Amalienborg, and Christiansborg are all well worth checking out, featuring some stunning and fairly distinct architecture.

Make sure to purchase a Copenhagen Card if you plan on visiting a lot of attractions. You can also take a bike tour if you want to explore some of the sights with a tour guide.

For unforgettable views of Copenhagen, you can climb to the top of the city’s Round Tower – just try not to get dizzy! 

Finally, you can finish the day off with a walk around the city’s iconic Nyhavn district and wandering around the cobblestone streets in the centre of the city. Known worldwide for its charming, colourful townhouses, cafes, and bars, Nyhavn is pretty busy in the warmer months, but its atmosphere simply has to be experienced firsthand. 

If you’re hungry, head to one of Copenhagen’s many fantastic food markets such as TorvehallerneKBH or Reffen. For those looking for something a bit more high-end, there are also countless fine dining establishments that call the Danish capital home. You can also take a food tour to try some of the nation’s iconic dishes.

It’s also recommended that you spend tonight, as well as nights 2 and 3 of your trip, in Copenhagen. 

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Ascot Hotel – This luxury hotel is in the centre of Copenhagen close to most major attractions. They offer a large range of rooms as well as breakfast daily and a gym onsite.

The Square   – This 4-star hotel is right across from Tivoli Gardens and has rooms suitable for singles, couples and larger families. There’s also a bar and common lounge for guests to enjoy.

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or visiting Denmark on a budget, then this hostel has dorm and private rooms, excellent common areas, 24-hour reception, and a bar on site!

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Copenhagen hotels!

Day 2 – Copenhagen 

On the second day of this Denmark itinerary, you’ll be visiting some of Copenhagen’s cultural highlights, including its world-famous Tivoli Gardens. The second-oldest amusement park in the world, Tivoli is, naturally, pretty old-school, but it’s still worth checking out for its historical value and unique atmosphere. You can pre-buy tickets here.

Afterwards, you can head to the National Museum of Denmark, which is home to a number of vital artefacts from the Viking era. The impressive Gundestrup Cauldron, thought to have been created sometime in the Iron Age, is a particular standout. 

The second day is also the perfect opportunity to try some delicious baked goods, which are something that Denmark is actually pretty famous for. We recommend the chain Meyers Bageri; with several locations across the city, their cinnamon rolls are not only traditional but absolutely delicious!

What’s more, at the end of each day, they donate any unsold bread and cakes to charities across Copenhagen that work to support the homeless, so your money will be going to a good cause. 

Day 3 – Humlebæk & North Zealand Day Trip 

For the third day of your holiday, we recommend taking a day trip from Copenhagen to North Zealand, described by many as the ‘Danish Riviera.’

It’s a popular holiday destination among Copenhageners, and Humlebæk, one of the region’s more significant towns, is just over 30 km away from Copenhagen itself and easily accessible via train. 

Humlebæk is home to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, which actually happens to be one of the most famous modern art museums in the world. So, if you’re a fan of the arts, then you’ll definitely want to head to Humlebæk and get to know some of the finest contemporary artworks in the world. 

Afterwards, you can either explore more of Humlebæk and the charming nearby beach of Nivå or head further afield and discover more of the North Zealand region.

If you’re not keen to head to North Zealand, consider heading out on a day trip to nearby Malmo, Sweden . Or, if you’re interested in Viking history, head to Roskilde which is also within easy reach of the Danish capital and won’t take long to get back to Copenhagen. Its main cathedral is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Do keep in mind that the next day of your trip will see you travelling from Copenhagen to Aarhus, so you might want to make sure not to overdo it! 

Day 4 – Aarhus 

On day 4, you’ll be making the trip from Copenhagen to Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. If travelling by train, you can expect the journey to take a little over three hours. 

Once you’ve arrived, we suggest acquainting yourself with the city by going on a walking tour of its downtown area. The food market Aarhus Street Food is the perfect place to grab some authentic and delicious local fare; located just off the wharves in the Kødbyen district, this is a fantastic option if you’re keen for a more relaxed, affordable location for a bite to eat. 

Then, you can pay a visit to the open-air museum Den Gamle By, which features reconstructions of a variety of historic buildings and feels like something of a time capsule! 

Note that you should plan to spend tonight and tomorrow night in Aarhus. 

Where to Stay in Aarhus

Hotel Oasia – This 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a hip place to stay in the centre of Aarhus. They have a great, central location, plenty of plush rooms on offer and a lovely breakfast buffet available in the morning.

Villa Provence – Those looking for a bit of luxury will love this plush hotel in the Aarhus canal area. Located within easy reach of the train station and close to the top attractions, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from.

BOOK1 Design Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this highly-rated hostel in the centre of Aarhus. They have a range of dorms and private rooms available along with good self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Aarhus hotels!

Day 5 – Aarhus 

We recommend that you use day 5 of your trip to visit some of Aarhus’ excellent cultural attractions, starting off with the tranquil Botanical Garden (the greenhouses are especially impressive!). 

Then, you can head to the ARoS Art Museum and Moesgaard Museum; ARoS is one of Scandinavia’s most significant art museums, while the Moesgaard Museum features a number of fascinating exhibits related to archaeology and anthropology. 

If you’re planning on seeing Denmark in 5 days only, then this will be the last day of your trip. So, if you’re flying home from Copenhagen, make sure to factor that into your plan for the day; note that the time it takes to reach Copenhagen from Aarhus via train is usually around 4 hours. 

Day 6 – Aalborg

Seeing Denmark in 7 days? Then, for day 6 of your trip, you’ll want to head north from Aarhus to Aalborg; travelling between the two cities usually takes a little over an hour by train. 

Once you’ve arrived in Aalborg, we suggest heading to the Maritime Experience Centre at Springeren, which is a must-see for enthusiasts of maritime history. 

Or, if Vikings are more your thing, you can head to the Viking Museum at Lindholm Høje, which is just north of Aalborg city. Home to museums and a burial ground, the Viking Museum is absolutely fascinating, even if you don’t have much existing knowledge of the Vikings or their culture. 

Afterwards, you might like to climb the observation tower, Aalborgtårnet, for a view over the city. You can easily combine this with a walk into downtown Aalborg, which makes for a fantastic way to get your bearings here. 

If you’re keen on sampling the local Danish fare during your trip, then you may want to consider heading to Mortens Kro for dinner tonight. Regarded by many as one of the best restaurants in the city, Mortens Kro specialises in serving up fairly typical Danish cuisine, as well as a number of vegetarian options. Both a la carte and tasting menus are available, and booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. 

We suggest that you spend the night in Aalborg, keeping in mind that tomorrow may be the last day of your trip, and, as such, you’ll need to make arrangements to return to Copenhagen then, if that’s where you’re flying home from. 

Where to Stay in Aalborg

Zleep Hotel Aalborg – Those looking for a hip, mid-range place to stay in Aalborg will love this 3-star hotel. They have chic rooms on offer, an on-site bar to lounge in and a great breakfast available for guests each morning.

KOMPAS Hotel – If you’re after a bit more luxury in Aalborg, then this hotel is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of the city close to all of the best attractions, there are lovely rooms to choose from, a great breakfast on offer and plenty of other amenities for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Aalborg hotels!

Day 7 – Aalborg 

For the last day of your trip to Denmark, we recommend taking a day trip from Aalborg to Rebild National Park ( Rebild Bakker in Danish). Buses departing from central Aalborg will take you to and from the national park, with a journey time of a little under an hour. 

The area comprises some lovely hilly heathland and is the perfect place for a hiking trip or picnic. Don’t expect much elevation gain, of course, but the park is truly tranquil, making for a nice change after nearly a week spent exploring Denmark’s incredible cities. 

Once you’re back, we suggest (unless you’re vegetarian/vegan) sampling the local seafood, which makes up a massive part of the local cuisine. One of the best places for it is the restaurant Fisk & Skaldyr, which specialises in serving seafood of the highest standard to diners. 

With oysters, salmon, mussels, prawns, eel, lobster, and halibut on the menu, seafood lovers are truly in for a treat here. The desserts are also to die for!

Note that there aren’t any vegetarian/vegan mains on the menu, so plant-based diners will likely want to contact the restaurant ahead of time to see if they’re able to accommodate dietary requirements. 

Have More Time? 

If you’d like to spend more than 7 days in Denmark, then you may want to head to Odense from Aalborg; the 3rd-largest city in Denmark, Odense is the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen and has its own unique character and plenty to see and do! Billund is home to the original LEGOLAND , too, which is great fun for children and adults alike. 

Or, if you want to see Denmark at its ‘peak,’ you can visit Himmelbjerget; it’s one of the highest points of the Danish landscape with an elevation of a whopping 147 metres! Its name even translates to ‘sky mountain,’ in reference to its height (which is impressive by Danish standards, in any case). 

Denmark is an incredible country, and both its cities and its countryside have so much to offer visitors. We hope that this itinerary helps you craft the perfect plan for your trip to Denmark and that you have an amazing time there!

Are you planning to visit Denmark? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Is Denmark Expensive? A Denmark Trip Cost Guide

The Essential Guide to Visiting Copenhagen in Winter

The Perfect Malmo Day Trip from Copenhagen

About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

Hi Emily, Thanks for putting out such detailed itinerary. I am looking for a week travel to Denmark and this really helped a lot to put things in place specially to explore areas outside of Copenhagen. Thanks again. Best wishes for future travels.

Regards Milan

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Denmark Travel Guide

Your ultimate denmark travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in denmark. great for first-time and returning travelers..

North of Germany and south of Norway and Sweden, Denmark is renowned for many things.

Many might think of the fairy tale The Little Mermaid , which originated here in Denmark by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.

But Denmark also offers beautiful architecture, historic buildings and castles, friendly locals, progressive values, and lovely scenic views.

There is much to do and see in Denmark.

This Denmark travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

• Things to do in Copenhagen
• Tivoli Gardens

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Denmark

• Power voltage is 230V at 50 Hz.
• Denmark’s currency is the Danish Krone (DKK) and 1 Krone is equal to 0.15 USD.
• The best way to get around Denmark is by rental car or bus.
• You do not need a tourist visa to enter Denmark as long as your stay is under 90 days. You do need a passport that will be valid at least six months after your trip.
• The best cellular networks in Denmark to purchase a SIM card from are Lyca Mobile and Lebara. You can purchase a SIM card from these networks at a local grocery store or 7-Eleven. Note that these SIM cards can only be used in Denmark and no other European countries.
• Denmark has a sales tax rate of 25%.

Things to See and Do in Denmark

• Tivoli Gardens :  Opened in 1843 and still running, this is the second-oldest amusement park in the world and a very popular attraction for tourists and locals. Included in this unique theme park is a Chinese theater shaped like a peacock, symphony orchestra, and plenty of rides. While it is known to be a more peaceful experience than other theme parks, it also has rides like the Dæmonen (The Demon), a rollercoaster where there is no floor and the rider’s legs hang out beneath them.
• Nyhavn :  Included in many “must-see” lists of Denmark is this 17th-Century waterfront. With colorful buildings and deep history, as well as numerous bars and restaurants, spend a few hours learning more about the history of Copenhagen. Take a city tour that includes Nyhavn or explore on your own.
• The Little Mermaid : No trip to Denmark would be complete without seeing one of the country’s most famous characters. One of Copenhagen’s most popular attractions, the statue has been around for over 100 years. Don’t miss your chance to visit the bronze statue of this iconic character from the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale up close.

Denmark Travel Guides

• Best Places to Visit in Europe to Help Plan Your Next Trip

12 Terrific Things to do in Copenhagen in Two Days

• Tivoli Gardens – Copenhagen’s Enchanting Amusement Park and Pleasure Garden

Accommodation

Budget:  Denmark offers a variety of bed and breakfast or budget hotels for roughly 350-600 Krones per night that come with communal kitchens, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and great central locations.

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels, expect to pay between 750 to 1,200 Krones per night and enjoy services like private rooms with a microwave and refrigerator, cable TVs, bar and lounge areas, complimentary breakfast, and wonderful city views.

High-End:  Upscale hotels will cost about 1,300-2,300 Krones per night. Experience the best of Denmark hospitality with top-of-the-line service, refined suites, fitness rooms and spas, and elegant dining and bars, among other things. 

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food : Flæskesteg (pig roast) is one of the main national dishes, while a bowl of Leverpostej(pork liver with dairy, onions, and spices) is another.

If you’re vegetarian, try some Danish blue cheese or the popular smørrebrød (an open-style dark brown rye sandwich with your choice of toppings).

You can find café treats and coffee for around 100 Krones. When dining in restaurants, meals are priced at around 150 Krones.

In general, expect to pay around 340 Krones per day for food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Denmark

Getting to denmark:.

Getting to Denmark:  While Denmark has 8 total airports, Copenhagen Airport is the main one and is just 5 miles from the city center.

Flights:   You can check for the best flights to Copenhagen on   Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : are a cheap way to get around Denmark and are offered throughout most of Denmark. Expect to pay around 20-25 Krones for a bus ticket, which is valid for one hour. In major cities like Copenhagen, buses run every ten minutes during peak business hours.

Train:  The train system in Denmark is well connected, and most trains do not require booking in advance. Ticket prices depending on how far you’re going. For example, take the train from Copenhagen to Elsinore for 84 Krones, or just through the city of Copenhagen for 24 Krones.

Taxis : Denmark has one of the highest taxi fares in the world. If you want to book from the airport, we suggest transfers with Viator.

Rent a car:  Renting a car is an alternative way to get around Denmark. You can rent a car if you are at least 21 years old and have had your driver’s license for at least 1 year. Prices start at around 460 Krones per day.

You can also compare car rental  prices here

When to go To Denmark

• Canada has four seasons and there is no bad time to visit Canada if you are prepared for the weather.
• Summer (June to August) is a good time for road trips , canoeing, hiking, and exploring cities.
• Winter (November to February) is great for skiing, ice skating, and winter carnivals .
• Spring (late March to May) can be unpredictable with a mix of snow, rain and warm sunshine and the same can be said for Autumn (September/October) although Autumn is usually dry.
• September through November is considered the best time to go to Canada, as peak tourism has ended (meaning fewer crowds and lower hotel prices) and there are many beautiful autumn leaves to see. However, for those going to Canada for winter sports, January to March is when the snow conditions are at their peak and is a great time for skiing or snowboarding. 

Where to Stay in Denmark

Scandic Copenhagen:   See something different in this colorful and stylish hotel in Copenhagen. Centrally located, nearby landmarks include the Tivoli Gardens theme park, the Little Mermaid statue, and the popular Strøget shopping area. The hotel comes with free breakfast, a gym, and an upscale bar.

Helnan Marselis Hotel :  Located right behind a beach that overlooks Aarhus Bay is this relaxed four-star hotel. Enjoy numerous amenities such as free breakfast, yoga classes, an indoor pool, a sauna and fitness facilities, and a restaurant. If you feel like exploring the city, the Aarhus Central Station is under 2 miles away, as well as local shops and cafes.

Hotel Knudsens Gaard :  A relaxed four-star hotel in Odense. Just a few minutes’ drive from the Odense Zoo, H.C. Anderson’s House, and the Funen Village, this is a great location to stay at. While you are there, enjoy free breakfast and Wi-Fi, as well as the hotel’s own restaurant.

What to Pack for Denmark

• Power Adapter:  Due to the higher power voltage, a power adapter will ensure all of your electronics can be charged appropriately.
• Layers:  As the weather can change on a dime, bring multiple layers of clothing so that you can be prepared.
• Waterproof coat:  Denmark is known to rain throughout the year, so a solid waterproof coat will help keep you dry.

See our packing tips:  Our Ultimate Packing list  and  How to Pack for Europe

Denmark Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Denmark Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Denmark click here.

Danish Food – 15 Traditional Danish Dishes You Can Try in Denmark or At Home

How to Visit Copenhagen Like a True Dane

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Copenhagen Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

But modern Copenhagen is not a city steeped in the past. The town’s classic architecture and canals are juxtaposed by great infrastructure, new buildings, and a high-tech transit system.

It’s one of my favorite cities in the world.

I’ve been here a dozen times and never get tired of my visits. The city is beautiful, clean, green, and the locals are always fun to hang out with. There is a spirit and vibe that screams “life is good here.” It’s infectious and will have you wondering why more places aren’t like this.

Denmark is constantly voted as one of the best and happiest countries in the world and, after visiting Copenhagen, it’s easy to see why. The quality of life here is incredible.

Use this travel guide to Copenhagen to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Copenhagen

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. Explore Freetown Christiania

This intentional community/would-be micronation has been around since the 1970s. Most people come to hang out and smoke the weed openly sold here (though in recent years, the locals have pushed out the drug dealers, decreasing drug sales by around 75%). There are also several small shops as well as two breweries here. The community is one of the biggest draws in the country and welcomes 500,000 visitors each year. Come for the cool beer gardens, people-watching, and colorful murals. Photography is discouraged by the locals though.

2. Cycle around the city

Renting a bike is the easiest way to explore the city — it’s how the locals travel. In fact, there are more bikes in the city than people (and five times as many bikes than cars!). Bikes can be rented all around the city, with prices per hour (25 DKK) or per day (around 120 DKK). For guided bike tours, expect to pay 350 DKK. Most tours last 2-3 hours and include all the main highlights.

3. Take a boat tour

The canals and harbor of Copenhagen are very beautiful (and super clean. You can actually see the bottom of the canals). Hour-long boat tours leave from Nyhavn and, while “touristy,” you will find a surprising number of locals on them drinking a beer on a sunny day. Tours range from 99-200 DKK per person.

4. Have fun at Tivoli

Opened in 1843, Tivoli is an amusement park in the center of the city. While it may not be the most popular place for everyday travelers, I had a blast here, especially playing bumper cars with my friends and drinking beer. Complete with a Ferris wheel, games, roller coasters, and a concert hall, this is an awesome place to spend an afternoon. Avoid the weekend and school holidays when the place is overflowing with families. Weekday admission is 145 DKK and weekends cost 155 DKK.

5. Hang out in Nørrebro

This is one of the city’s coolest areas. Trendy bars and shops sit right next to dive bars and cheap kebab shops, so spend some time strolling the streets and taking in the eclectic sights. Grab a cocktail at The Barking Dog, or check out the music venues/nightclub Rust.

Other Things to See and Do in Copenhagen

1. see the christiansborg palace ruins.

Christiansborg Palace is the home of Denmark’s parliament and the Prime Minister’s office. Located underneath the parliamentary palace are the ruins of Bishop Absalon’s fortress, which dates back to 1167. It’s dark and damp down there, giving it a very crypt-like and ancient feel. I was really impressed with the detailed information provided about the fortress and its evolution to its current palace form. Admission is 165 DKK, however, it’s free with the Copenhagen Card.

2. Visit Round Tower

Rundetaarn (The Round Tower) is a 17th-century tower that was built as an observatory. It’s actually the oldest functioning observatory in Europe. And through a long, tiring walk to the top, it provides a sweeping view of the old part of Copenhagen. The stairs are actually equestrian stairs, which means they are built in such a way that horses and mules can navigate them (probably to bring up equipment to the top). Admission is 40 DKK.

3. See the Church of Our Saviour

Located near Christiania, this church is worth seeing for its giant spiraling bell tower. The interior of the church is rather ordinary and features a few interesting paintings, but the winding tower is what makes it worthwhile. It has always been regarded as something of a test of manhood to climb up and touch the globe on the summit, nearly 350 feet up in the air. The view from the top is worth the effort. Admission is 65 DKK.

4. Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Experience

Hans Christian Andersen is the famous author of numerous classic children’s stories, including The Little Mermaid, The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling, and more. While this place is designed for children and features Disney-like displays and sets, I really enjoyed it. Inside, you learn about his life and can read all of Andersen’s tales, which were a lot shorter and darker than I had thought. It was quite an eye-opener — Disney lied to me all these years! Admission is 155 DKK for adults and 100 DKK for children.

5. See the National Museum

Established in 1807, this museum covers over 14,000 years of history in Denmark, from the Ice Age and the Vikings all the way to the present. There are all kinds of cool artifacts from the Viking era and lots of neat historical tidbits. Exhibitions cover prehistory, the Middle Ages and Renaissance, coins and metals, indigenous art, ancient Greece and Rome, and more. The museum has rotating temporary exhibitions as well. Admission is 110 DKK.

6. Explore the Danish National Gallery

The Danish National Gallery has an incredible collection of art from the likes of Rembrandt, Picasso, Matisse, and other masters. There are over 9,000 paintings in their collection and several hundred thousand other works. Established in 1896, there are also a number of paintings by Danish artists from the “Golden Age” (1800-1850). Some 40,000 items from the collection are available online in their virtual museum as well. Admission is 120 DKK and free for anyone under 18.

7. Experience the nightlife

Copenhagen has a variety of pubs, lounges, and clubs. This city doesn’t start pumping until about 1am and goes very late. I would try to spend at least one night out. For nightclubs, check out Culture Box, which has three different rooms playing separate genres of music to dance to. If dancing isn’t your thing and you’d much rather sip some delicious drinks, try K-Bar, Lidkoeb, and Gensyn Bar. Just be prepared to splurge as alcohol isn’t cheap here!

8. See the Little Mermaid

A homage to one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved characters, this bronze statue may be small, but it’s worth taking the time to see. Expect there to be a crowd — it’s a popular attraction! Also, don’t miss the nearby Gefion Fountain. It features a sculpture of the Norse goddess Gefion (goddess of unmarried women) plowing the land with oxen (Norse mythology states that she created the land that is Denmark after plowing it with her oxen).

9. Relax in Kastellet Park

Kastellet fortress was built in 1664 to guard the city. It’s one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. The citadel was built in a pentagon and is still an active military installation. Inside there were numerous barracks as well as a windmill, church, and other outbuildings. Today, it’s a public park and cultural monument. The park has relaxing gardens, plenty of trees, and tranquil ponds surrounding it. It’s a popular spot for locals to walk and jog as you can also walk along the ramparts. It’s right near the Little Mermaid and is a wonderful place to relax on a warm day with a book and a picnic.

10. Shop at a flea market

In the summer months, there are numerous flea markets around the city that are perfect for browsing. Many are open just on the weekends and offer an assortment of odds and ends. Nørrebro Flea Market is Denmark’s longest and narrowest, stretching 333 meters (1,092 feet) near Assistens Cemetery on Nørrebrogade. Other markets worth checking out are Frederiksberg Loppemarked, Gentofte Loppemarked, and Ritas Blå Lopper.

11. Day trip to Malmö

For a day trip, consider visiting Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city. It’s under an hour away and you can spend some time strolling around the historic city center. You’ll also get to cross the famous Øresund bridge, a landmark made famous by the hit Scandinavian crime drama The Bridge ( Broen in Danish). Don’t miss the Stortorget market (which is over 500 years old) and Malmö Castle.

12. Explore Roskilde

Known as the ancient city of Denmark, Roskilde was Denmark’s capital from 960 to 1536. Located just 40 minutes from the city by car (30 minutes by train), this is an amazing city to view the country’s history, whether it be the 12th century Roskilde Domkirke cathedral; Sankt Laurentius, the 16th-century bell tower, or the Viking Ship Museum, which has five original Viking longships on display. It plays host to Europe’s largest music festival every June and the Roskilde Cathedral is the most famous in the country as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

13. Relax at the botanical gardens

These gardens span over 24 acres right in the middle of the city. The greenhouses date back to the 1870s and are home to over 13,000 plants and flowers (some of which are over 200 years old). Don’t miss the Arctic “greenhouse” which uses air conditioning to simulate conditions in the arctic so its arctic plants can thrive. There’s also a butterfly house with hundreds of butterflies you can visit. Admission to the gardens is free, while some of the buildings cost 40-60 DKK to access (free with the Copenhagen Card).

14. Visit Rosenborg Castle

This Renaissance castle was built by Christian IV at the start of the 17th century. The palace was the official royal residence until 1710 and has all kinds of royal artifacts on display, such as the Danish crown, the crown jewels, three life-sized lion statues, and the coronation throne. The interior is incredibly lavish with all kinds of ornate designs, murals, tapestries, and art. It has a very over-the-top feel similar to places like Versailles in France. Admission is 125 DKK and free with the Copenhagen Card.

15. Take a canal tour

One of the best ways to take in the city is by boat. Cruise around the city’s canals and learn about Copenhagen’s past and the important role the canals played in its development. Most include stops at Copenhagen’s main sights, including The Copenhagen Opera House, Christiansborg Palace, and the Little Mermaid. Tours cost around 100 DKK and are free with the Copenhagen Card.

  For more information on other destinations in Denmark, check out these city guides:

• Aarhus Travel Guide

Copenhagen Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms with 6-8 beds cost around 200 DKK per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities if you want to cook your own food. Only a couple of hostels include free breakfast so be sure to book those hostels in advance if that’s a priority for you. Private rooms begin at 675 DKK per night.

There are several campgrounds outside of the city with prices starting at 85 DKK per night for a basic plot (a flat space for a tent, usually without electricity; there is an additional charge for these amenities).

Budget hotel prices – For a budget two-star hotel, prices start at 600 DKK per night for one person, with a twin bed and shared bathroom. For a room with a private bathroom, expect to pay at least 800 DKK. These usually include free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like a TV, AC, and a coffee/tea maker.

Airbnb is available but expensive when not booked early. Expect to pay an average of 500-800 DKK per night for a private room (though if you book early you can find them for 350 DKK), while entire homes/apartments cost around 800-1,000 DKK (they average double that price, however, so be sure to book early).

Food – Danish cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood. Cod, herring, and beef are never far from any meal. Dark bread and open-faced sandwiches ( smørrebrød ) are a staple for both breakfast and lunch. Liverpaste is a local favorite, as is shrimp on bread. Most traditional dinner meals revolve around meat and potatoes.

A meal out at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 125 DKK. Cheap sandwich shops cost 90 DKK while a fast food combo (think McDonald’s) is around 85 DKK. For a three-course meal and a drink, expect to pay at least 350 DKK.

Chinese food and Thai food can be found for as little as 80 DKK while Italian cuisine ranges from 110-140 DKK. A large pizza costs around 75 DKK.

Beer is 50 DKK while a cappuccino/latte is around 42 DKK. Bottled water is 20 DKK.

If you are going to cook your own food, expect to pay around 400-500 DKK per week for basic staples like vegetables, pasta, rice, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Denmark Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 500 DKK per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm or camp, cook all of your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and enjoying the parks. If you want to drink more, add another 100-200 DKK per day.

On a mid-range budget of 1,275 DKK per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple of drinks here and there, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting museums and castles and going on a canal tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,300 DKK or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, do as many activities as you’d like, and take taxis (or rent a car) to get around. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in DKK.

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Copenhagen is an expensive city in an expensive country. You’ll spend a lot here if you aren’t careful. If you find cheap accommodation, stick to happy hours, and cook your meals, you’ll be able to cut your costs a lot without limiting too much of what you do in the city. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Copenhagen:

• Get the Copenhagen Card – If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and visit a lot of attractions then I highly recommend you get the Copenhagen Card. It offers discounts and free admission to museums and attractions and includes free transportation. Cards are offered for 24 hours (438 DKK), 48 hours (655 DKK), 72 hours ( 803 DKK), 96 hours (930 DKK), and 120 hours (1,050 DKK).
• Take a free walking tour – One of my favorite ways to start a trip is with a free walking tour. You get to see all the main sites while chatting with an expert local guide. Copenhagen Free Walking Tours offers a comprehensive free tour that serves as an excellent intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Refill your water bottle – The water in Denmark is safe to drink and is held to very high standards. Skip buying bottled water here and refill your bottle instead. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can always be sure your water is clean and safe.
• Eat on the street – Street stalls sell hot dogs and sausages for cheap. To eat on a budget, stick to them.
• Get a Hostelling International card – Danhostel.dk is the national accredited Hostelling International network. They operate 60+ hotels throughout the country so you’ll want to get an HI card if you plan on staying at their hostels during your stay. If purchased in Denmark, HI cards are 160 DKK.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Copenhagen is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts. This way, you not only have a place to stay but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Cook your food – Eating out in Copenhagen is not cheap, and since Danish food isn’t going to win any great culinary awards, you won’t miss much by cooking your own food. If you must eat out, do so during lunch when specials and buffet deals make restaurants reasonably priced.
• Book in advance – When leaving the city, book your train and bus tickets a month in advance to save you up to 50%.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Copenhagen has a lot of hostels. They’re all pretty comfortable and sociable. These are my recommended places to stay in the city:

• Urban House Copenhagen
• Woodah Boutique Hostel
• a&o Copenhagen Sydhavn
• Steel House Copenhagen
• Urban Camper Copenhagen

How to Get Around Copenhagen

Public transportation – In Copenhagen, the Rejsekort ticket system provides access to the metro, bus, and train. Ticket prices are based on different zones with a two-zone ticket costing 24 DKK.

Timed tickets are also available, offering unlimited travel for set periods. They cost 80 DKK for 24 hours, 150 DKK for 48 hours, and 200 DKK for 72 hours. But if you purchase the Copenhagen Card (city tourism card), public transportation is free.

A ticket from downtown Copenhagen to the airport is 36 DKK each way.

Taxi – Taxis are expensive and should be avoided. Rates start at 89 DKK and go up 15 DKK per kilometer. There are no rideshares here like Uber and Lyft so taxis are your only option in a pinch. I suggest avoiding them as much as possible since they are pricey!

Bicycle – Renting a bike is the easiest way to explore the city. Bikes can be rented all around the city, costing 120 DKK per day. Helmets are not included and cost 40 DKK extra. Bycyklen (the city’s bike-share program) costs 1 DKK per minute and has over 130 stations around the city. Other companies are Copenhagen Bicycle and Baisikeli, which both offer rentals.

Car rental – You don’t need a car to get around the city, however, they can be helpful for exploring the region (though public transportation can pretty much get you everywhere). You can find rentals for as little as 130 DKK per day. To rent a car in Denmark, you need to be 19 and have had your license for at least one year.

When to Go to Copenhagen

Since Copenhagen is a coastal town, its temperature is heavily influenced by the sea. The city has mild summers and cold winters, with lots of daylight hours in the summer and significantly less in the winter.

Winters average around 0°C (32°F), so dress accordingly. Sunset is around 3pm, so pack in as many outdoor activities as you can during the day if you plan on going then! There won’t be nearly as many people visiting during the winter and prices are lower.

In contrast, summers in Copenhagen are beautiful, with highs in July and August around 22°C (72°F) and the sun doesn’t set until 9pm. July and August are the most popular months to visit so expect higher prices and larger crowds. But the city is at its liveliest and there are lots of summer events and festivals happening.

Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit if you want to beat the crowds and save money since most accommodation is a little cheaper (and less busy). Spring sees cooler temperatures, settling around 16°C (61°F) in May, and in autumn, Copenhagen is cool, cloudy, and sometimes rainy so bring a jacket.

How to Stay Safe in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a safe place to backpack and travel. Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world so violent incidents are rare. Your only real concern is petty theft but even that is super rare. Just keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There’s numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

While cannabis used to be openly sold in Freetown Christiania, ever since a shooting in 2016 the trade has been more or less forced out of sight. Avoid buying drugs here and make sure you do not take photos of anyone using or selling drugs either.

If you plan on cycling through the city, be sure to wear a helmet and always lock your bike so it does not get stolen.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Copenhagen Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Copenhagen Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

From the effortlessly cool capital of Copenhagen—known for its forward-thinking design and yes, ample supply of cardamom buns—to more relaxed and bucolic getaways outside this Nordic country’s city centers, Denmark is a destination sure to delight travelers of all walks of life.

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Practical Information

Denmark is a Nordic country bordering Germany and Sweden. Although Danish is the national language, English is spoken widely. Copenhagen is the capital and one of the most popular places to visit in Denmark, though it’s worth getting outside of the city and visiting other areas of the country—such as West Denmark—as well.

Denmark Travel and Backpacking Guide

Welcome to my backpacking Denmark travel guide! Denmark is the southernmost of the Scandinavian countries. This majestic country offers an amazing symbiosis of cosmopolitan cities and rural tranquility. You’re never far from beautiful medieval castles, enviable coastline, or rich culture and numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit. With stunning scenery that offers the intrepid explorer plenty of opportunities to discover and appreciate the richness and beauty of nature, it is no wonder that backpacking Denmark is high on any traveler’s list.

If the country isn’t on your bucket list, it should be, because Danes like to demonstrate their passion for modernity and Denmark is indeed a very modern country. However, as soon as you leave the airport, you realize that Denmark retains its medieval feel out on the terraces of its fashionable bars and restaurants.

Denmark is seen as providing a high quality of life and being one of the world’s happiest countries. This is the country that offers so much more than just Carlsberg and Smørebrød that it blows my mind more backpackers don’t take advantage of it. Denmark is, however, notoriously expensive.

Read More: Europe Travel Guide

For many travelers, the thought of backpacking Denmark for more than a couple days is a bank account draining nightmare. So how to significantly reduce your total backpacking cost without making too many sacrifices? Is it even possible to travel to Denmark on a budget?

In this Denmark travel guide, you will get all the hacks and tips you need to travel to Denmark on a budget. Get Denmark travel itinerary, in-depth tips on backpacking in Denmark, top things to do in Denmark, where to go, where to stay, and more!

By the end of this Denmark travel guide, you will fear the high prices in this part of Europe no longer. In addition, once you get to know what’s on offer in Denmark you will probably start preparing for a backpacking trip right away!

Let’s dive right in!

Where to Go Backpacking in Denmark

There are five regions in Denmark with each region being governed by a popularly elected regional council. Backpacking Denmark offers up the opportunity to explore a vast array of landscapes. From wandering the streets of the major cities and trekking the Camønoen hiking trail to island hopping around the Faroe, Denmark has plenty to keep budget backpackers busy.

A journey backpacking in Denmark takes you past the highlights of southern Scandinavia. One of the reasons I love Denmark, in particular, is because there are more stunning natural landscapes, history, and culture than one can possibly take in a single backpacking trip. Backpacking in Denmark is the journey that keeps on giving.

Visit Egeskov Castle in Funen. Explore the myriad of hiking and cycling trails in Thy National Park. Discover the amazing food culture in Copenhagen. Become enchanted by the Viking burial grounds of Lindholm Høje.

Whether you’re a landscape photography enthusiast, history buff, a foodie, adventure evangelist or just love getting lost in big cities, Denmark has all of those things on offer and in abundance.

Obviously, backpacking Denmark isn’t the same as trekking through Southeast Asia or South America . Although, in stark contrast, things generally are a lot more organized in Denmark.

If you love keeping things a bit more under control, access to efficient transportation, and can tolerate a certain degree of spontaneity, you are going to love traveling here! Now let’s take a look at my favorite backpacking itinerary for one week in Denmark below.

One Week Backpacking Denmark Itinerary

Here is a backpacking Denmark travel itinerary to make certain that you don’t miss a thing on your trip. This backpacking route can easily be combined with another, done in reverse, and customized based on your preferences!

Total Traveling Time – 5 to 7 days

Backpacking copenhagen (2 days).

It’s hard to resist the charms of Copenhagen. But what is Copenhagen known for? There are many green spaces, the Little Mermaid statue and Freetown Christiania. the latter is a hidden gem and a special place that is home to Green Light District where you can purchase cannabis .

It has the busiest airport in Scandinavia serving the Danish capital and also Southern Sweden thanks to its location adjacent to the Øresund Bridge. Its city center is quite compact and you can cover the main sights by foot. There’re plenty of activities and experiences for people of all ages and interests. Therefore it’s a logical starting point for any trip across Denmark.

Copenhagen is the epitome of the Scandinavian way of life. Alternative culture thrives in the self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood of Christiania. Definitely, the most interesting hippie district to visit in Copenhagen that boasts some trendy smoky bars, vegetarian restaurants, and concert venues. The city also has all the eating, drinking and partying options you’d expect of a major Western European capital with some fine waterfront settings, the highlight of which is 17th Century Nyhavn.

Backpacking Roskilde (Half Day)

Only half an hour from Copenhagen, Roskilde is a perfect spot for a day trip from the Danish capital. Steeped in Viking history, Roskilde should be high on everyone’s travel bucket list. This is an ancient Viking city that used to be the historical capital between the 11th and the 13th centuries.

Roskilde highlights include a 13th Century cathedral and a compelling Viking Museum. It will take you back in time and allow you to start getting to grips with the history of Denmark. Roskilde is also the setting for the largest Scandinavian festival, held over a week each summer. Roskilde Festival attracts folks from all over Europe!

If you visit Roskilde as part of the suggested one-week Denmark itinerary, you may want to hop on a train from Copenhagen in the morning, and then continuing to Odense later in the day.

Backpacking Odense (1-2 Days)

No trip to Denmark is complete without visiting Odense. This is Denmark’s third-largest city and situated some 130km from Roskilde. It takes little over an hour to get there by train.

Odense is a popular stop on any Denmark backpacking route and I can’t imagine going to Odense without a trip to the famous Egeskov Castle, Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance castles. The city lies in the centre of the island of Funen and is wonderfully walkable. This makes Odense easy to explore on a budget, without the need to spend extra cash on getting around.

If you have extra time, there are plenty of day trips to the surrounding towns and countryside. The city is also well known as Hans Christian Andersen’s hometown. Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum that tells the story of the writer’s life and has a lot of his personal belongings.

Backpacking Aarhus (1-2 Days)

It’s so easy to fall in love with Aarhus. However, this vibrant Danish city is often overlooked in favor of its bigger counterparts. Aarhus may have quite a small town feel but it definitely deserves attention and makes for a wonderful city break.

Aarhus is the second largest city in Denmark, and it will only take a couple of days to explore the whole city. City’s history began as a fortified Viking settlement founded in 770. Filled with culture, interesting shops, pretty architecture, and some truly fabulous food, Aarhus is also home to a diverse and thriving student population though.

Aarhus has become an important cultural and economic center in Jutland. The Old Town (Den Gamle By), the royal summer palace of Marselisborg and Aarhus Cathedral are great places to soak up local life. Those fond of unusual places may want to visit the Women’s Museum, Grisebrønden (Well of Pigs) sculpture that symbolizes the love of Danes to the bacon and the Viking Moot, an annual event, which takes place in July.

Aarhus has become an important cultural and economic center in Jutland. The Old Town (Den Gamle By), the royal summer palace of Marselisborg and Aarhus Cathedral are great places to check out. Rent a bike to save money on transportation and visit the Women’s Museum, Grisebrønden (Well of Pigs) sculpture that symbolizes the love of Danes to the bacon. If you’re lucky enough, don’t miss out on visiting the Viking Moot, an annual event, which takes place at the end of July.

Best Time to Visit Denmark

The country has a very temperate climate that is moderated by the warm Gulf Stream and four distinct seasons. Summer is the best time to visit Denmark, while autumn tends to be rainy and cloudy. August is the hottest month with the average temperature being 15.7°C and reaching highs of over 25°C.

Early summer is a great time to go on a backpacking trip in Denmark. The days are long, the weather is warm and there are fewer crowds . The temperature is pleasant without spring’s wet weather. Summer is high season, with July and August seeing the most crowds. All popular places to visit in Denmark will be busy at their peak season and hotel and flight prices tend to be higher. Danes welcome Midsummer, the longest day of the year, around June 21 with a country-wide celebration. For one of the country’s best music festival, visit during the first week of July to experience the Roskilde Music Festival.

The weather can vary from region to region. The west coast sees more rain than the rest of Denmark. Always check the forecast before heading out and always be prepared for rain. You should just expect that it will be rainy at some point on your trip. Hopefully, you will be lucky and get the chance to experience beautiful sunshine! Take my advice: always bring a solid rain-jacket and waterproof shoes for trekking in Denmark.

Read Next Post: Austria Travel Guide

Late spring is also an excellent time to come backpacking in Denmark. If you come too early or visit too late though, expect cold temperatures. The winters in Denmark are typically mild, getting colder in January and February, but rarely dipping below freezing for long. Visiting Copenhagen in winter months provides a great chance to experience European Christmas Markets!

In the winter the days are short. As you get closer to the Arctic circle, the daylight in the winter is minimal. The reverse is true in the summer.

Where to Stay in Denmark

Denmark has a high number of hostels, guest houses, homestays, and farmstays so budget travel is certainly catered for. These options are your best bet for cheap accommodation whilst backpacking Denmark. Prices vary depending on the location and the time of year you visit. Generally, the average price of a hostel is 130-240 DKK (€17-32) a night.

A lot of the best hostels in Copenhagen are a bit pricey, but they offer good value. They will usually provide linen, bathroom, cooking and internet facilities.

If you’re doing some trekking, it’s also a good idea to pack your tent and a hammock and sleep for a very modest fee of 20 DKK or so. Wild camping isn’t allowed in Denmark because the country is more densely populated than Sweden or Norway. However, you can take advantage of using one of the country’s many “primitive” campsites and enjoy a night under canvas in a natural environment.

Couchsurfing in Denmark

Danes are incredibly welcoming and hospitable! And they always up for a good time! Obviously, Couchsurfing is the cheapest way to backpack Denmark and also a great tool to make some real friendships. Make yourself stand out when using Couchsurfing . Don’t your hosts feel like they’re part of a generic spam message!

Cheap Accommodation in Denmark

Hostels and Guesthouses are your next cheapest option in Denmark. Hostels are really only found in bigger cities although more are starting to pop up in the countryside too. Out with the city, BnB’s or Guesthouses are your cheapest option. Expect to pay around $35 – $40 a night. Check out the awesome Steel House Copenhagen .

To save on accommodation in Denmark, consider staying in campsites. To do that you will need the Camping Key Europe pass. For a one-night stay, you will need a transit card. Campsites are usually available from April to September. Some are open all year round. Since all campsites are classified according to their quality, the typical cost for a three-star campsite is around 70 DKK. If you travel with kids or just want to hang out in nature than consider farm holidays or agritourism. Volunteering with WWOOF is a great way to get free accommodation in rural areas.

Often cheaper than the pricey hotels, but still offering more privacy than a hostel. I’ve used Airbnb a number of times in Denmark even in the most rural of areas! Start planning your Denmark backpacking trip with this Airbnb coupon code, and get $35 off your first booking!

Below are a few of my favourite hostels and budget accommodation options when backpacking Denmark:

Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER Danhostel Svendborg Copenhagen Downtown Hostel Danhostel Ribe Generator Copenhagen Danhostel Aarhus City Danhostel Roskilde

Entry Requirements in Denmark

Denmark is a member of the Schengen agreement, meaning citizens from the EU, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States can travel freely to Denmark with no visa. If you’re not a citizen of a Nordic country or the EU then you may need a visa to enter Denmark. Folks coming from the US will need two blank pages in their passport and it should have at least six months validity.

Denmark Travel Guide to Getting Around

The Copenhagen Airport Kastrup (CPH), just outside the capital city, is the easiest and cheapest way to get to Danmark. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) operates flights from their hub in Copenhagen to 109 destinations around the world, and they also offer free airfare for children between the ages of two and 11 on flights between the US and the Nordic countries.

The airport is a 15-minute metro or bus ride from the city centre and a one-way ticket costs 38 DKK. Most major car rental companies have an office at the airport, though many of the smaller (and cheaper) companies have offices nearby. If you book with a smaller company they can pick you up upon arrival.

It’s also possible to hitchhike into Copenhagen or even Sweden from the airport. Leave the airport building on the other side of the metro exit to the large parking lot and then go to the roundabout at the end next to Netto. Just after the roundabout there is a bus stop and a smaller parking lot. This area makes a good spot to hitchhike from. You will be able to keep an eye on the petrol station and hopefully find some cars that will get you to Copenhagen.

How to Travel in Denmark

Copenhagen is easily accessible from Sweden via the Øresund bridge by bus or from Germany by bus or train. The bridge connects the Swedish city of Malmö to the Danish capital. There is a number of daily buses from Germany to Denmark. Although traveling by bus takes longer, it’s often much cheaper than going by train. Furthermore, you don’t have to buy tickets in advance. Eurolines and Flixbus offer a comprehensive list of routes.

The culture of cycling in Denmark is popular as both a recreational activity and a means of getting around. Danes just love riding their bicycles. Sometimes it feels like they treat pedestrians like second-class citizens here! To overcome this social injustice, rent your own bike. Many hotels have bike rentals or you can find bike shops for day rentals – it will be around €18 per day.

I used Copenhagen’s metro, buses, and trains quite a bit and found them very easy to navigate. Buses often have special codes to mark their types. For example, regular buses have only their number, while A buses are the main network without any schedule departing every 2 to 6 minutes. For buses, I usually rely on Google Maps on my phone so that I know where to get off. Also don’t forget that you can get to and from the airport, as well as, get around Copenhagen for free with a Copenhagen Card !

Danish Food: A Culinary Travel Guide to What to Eat

If stereotypes dominate your perception of Danish cuisine than you’re probably think: “Right, Danish food. You mean Smørrebrød?” Well, they do have smørrebrød for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but let me explain myself better.

While nobody is arguing that the Danish have more gastronomic prowess than Italy, the Danish still offer up a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes to try.

I didn’t find the food in Denmark to be super diverse. But Danes are good at what they do cook. And yes, you can’t say your backpacking trip around Denmark is complete without trying a delicious Smørrebrød.

Traditional Danish Dishes

Here are a few of my favorite dishes native to Denmark:

Aebleskiver – (The English language spelling is usually aebleskiver or ebleskiver) are a type of small Danish pancake balls that are cooked with sugar in a special stovetop pan with half-spherical molds.

Kartofler – Have you ever heard that Danes talk like they have potatoes in their mouths? While this is a questionable statement, traditional Danish food is more or less all about potato dishes. Typically boiled in water with vegetables or cooked with sugar to create caramelization.

Krebinetter – This is a type of pork patties and everyday dish in Denmark, also known as karbonader. Earlier on, Krebinetter were served with green peas and carrots in a white sauce, but young Danes like them with a salad or rye bread.

Hønsekødssuppe – Basically, a delicious chicken soup with vegetables and dough dumplings.

Frikadeller – Danish meatballs consist of equal beef and pork, flour, eggs, milk, onions and spices and is eaten with rye bread, parsley sauce or potatoes. Frikadeller is one of the Dane’s most beloved dishes and a popular topping for smørrebrød (both hot and cold). In the summer, young and old accompany meatballs with boiled potatoes and salad.

Smørrebrød – These open-faced sandwiches are incredibly popular across Denmark. Danes love their Smørrebrøds and typically eat them for lunch. Usually eaten with rugbrød (rye bread), they can be topped with poached egg, creamy chicken, raw herring, meat, vegetables or shrimp. No matter where you go backpacking in Denmark, you will find many eateries and restaurants serving Smørrebrød.

Where to Go in Denmark. Places To Visit

Backpacking svendborg.

A small town located on the island of Funen in southern Denmark is well known for its history and shipyards. Start with exploring the harbor and the embankment. The spot was Hans Christian Andersen’s favorite place in the city. Make sure to wander through the narrow streets to feel the spirit of Svendborg. With several historic sites situated within walking distance of the city center, the Saint Nicholas Church is the oldest building in Svendborg. The Valdemars Slot – the palace that was built by King Christian IV for his son – is still inhabited by Juel family.

Backpacking Bornholm

One of the most beautiful islands not only in Denmark but in the Baltic Sea. Separated from the mainland by the sea, Bornholm has a totally unique atmosphere. With a large influx of tourists in summer, attracted by the sandy beaches in the south and the granite cliffs in the north, the island managed to keep its quiet lifestyle.

Be sure to visit Osterlars Church, the oldest of the island’s four round churches; Hammershus ruins of once largest medieval fortification in Scandinavia, with a stunning view of the coastline and the sea surrounding Bornholm, and the Bornholm Birds of Prey Show. Many backpackers come to Bornholm to try the traditional smoked herring with egg yolk. Bornholm is much closer to Sweden, so it might be convenient to get a DSB combined rail and ferry ticket to reach Ystad and then set sail for Ronne. Another option is to hop on a ferry in Koge.

Den Gamle By Museum

A unique open-air museum, otherwise known as the Old Town in Aarhus definitely lives up to its name. With about 80 buildings from all around Denmark, the museum meticulously recreates medieval Danish town, including a mill, post office, school, and a theater. As Danes love to reconstruct history using any method possible, the Den Gamle By is more like an exponential replica of the period that has passed a long time ago.

Aside from the historic homes, you may also see people dressed in period clothing and practicing activities date back centuries. Visiting Den Gamle By is cheaper in the winter, and there are discounts for students (and since I was a student from another country, I got an additional discount). From March-December, it costs 135 DKK (about $22 USD) for adults and 70 DKK (about $12 USD) for students, and it’s free for anyone under 18.

Kronborg Castle

This historic royal castle is the second most popular tourist attraction in Denmark. I visited it on a cold snowy day in January and it was admirable. Kronborg is most famous for being the castle in which Shakespeare set his play, Hamlet. Indeed, the play about the Danish prince is based upon the Danish mythological figure Amleth. Shakespeare simply moved the ‘h’ from the end of the name to the start.

The strategic location of Kronborg castle was paramount. Because of its strategic coastal location, Denmark’s kings could control the entrance to the Baltic Sea and charge foreign vessels. On a clear day, Kronborg Castle offers spectacular views along the impressive rugged coastline and distant views of the Sweden coastline.

Make sure you wear comfy shoes if you want to explore the crypts, as the floors are uneven, unpaved stone. It’s also pitch black! In summer, there are live Shakespeare performances. You can take a ferry to reach the Swedish town of Helsingborg, the voyage takes about 20 minutes.

Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse

A huge dune near the Rubjerg Knude lighthouse occurred shortly after the lighthouse was lit in December 1900. Now the dune is still growing as the sand piling up in front of and around the lighthouse that already caused the destruction of the kitchen gardens. With no success in suppressing the sand, the lighthouse was abandoned in 1968. Specialists say the lighthouse will be buried in sand or just fall into the sea within the next ten years. Be sure to see before this happens! The Rubjerg Knude lighthouse is located in northern Jutland. Consider renting a car or a bicycle to get there.

Frederiksborg Castle

Although the Kronborg castle is more popular with tourists, in my opinion, Frederiksborg is far more romantic. The castle is situated on three small islands in the Slotssøen lake, which makes Frederiksborg look like something out of a fairy tale. In addition, there is a lovely Baroque garden with hedges and perfect layout. The price is 75 DKK for a single ticket. Use your Copenhagen City Card to get free admission.

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Denmark travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

Whether you’re looking for cities packed with culture or a countryside of fjords and beaches, a holiday in denmark offers it all – along with some seriously cool scandi vibes, article bookmarked.

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Somewhere in the Danish countryside – amid the swan-filled lakes, royal gardens, and oak woods – lie the settings where Hans Christian Andersen was inspired to pen the world’s best-selling fairy tales. In the 19th century, the writer was taken by his homeland’s lily ponds and castle estates, riverbanks and chalk cliffs, and yet still today, it’s not hard to fall for such superlative landscapes. For Denmark is a kingdom with scenery and stories to set anyone dreaming.

To begin, Copenhagen has been one of the world’s most appealing capitals for some years, with culture, design, architecture, canals, castles, and Carlsberg on tap – admittedly, it’s tough to squeeze it all in, no matter how much time you have. And if your wallet can take it, the city is a hub for Michelin-star dining .

Away from the tourist crowds, many prefer the cities of Aarhus , Aalborg, and Odense – each is bewitchingly attractive – while the spaces in between are filled with jigsaw-piece fjords, more than 400 islands, beach towns, theme parks and epic Viking sites that live up to their billing. Life is good in Denmark, so it’s hardly surprising the Danish are regularly voted amongst the world’s happiest. Lucky them.

Travel restrictions

Since 2021, travellers arriving in Denmark have not been subject to any Covid-19 restrictions. No proof of vaccination, recovery, or testing is required for entry and the country has done away with all mask and social distancing.

Best time to go

Whether there’s a more rewarding time to visit Denmark than any other is a topic of speculation, but – for most travellers – the country is at its most playful in summer. Cities roll out festivals galore ( Roskilde in late June is Glastonbury-gone-Scandi) and, with every second Dane heading to a wood-clad cabin or holiday cottage, sand-swept beach destinations from Klitmøller (aka Cold Hawaii) to Bornholm do their best to recast the North and Baltic Seas as something akin to the Mediterranean.

Read more on Denmark travel :

• Best cheap hotels in Copenhagen 2023
• Billund city guide: Where to stay, eat, drink and shop in Denmark’s family friendly city
• Best hotels in Copenhagen for stylish city centre stays

It could also be claimed that the Danes know how to do December travel-bragging better than anywhere: Copenhagen and its seasonal Tivoli Gardens , in particular, are devoted to spice-laden cookies, festive merry-go-rounds and an explosion of fairy-lit decorations in the cold still air. For the ultimate festive hit, splurge at Nimb Hotel , the park’s embarkation point into pinch-yourself fantasy.

Top regions and cities

Possibly the world’s best city? To the Danes, it’s sacred – and perhaps you’ll think so too. For the uninitiated, it’s a green powerhouse with cycle superhighways, vitreously clear harbour swimming pools, upcycled warehouse districts and fair trade food courts, plus Hamlet-style castles next to bohemian districts. In truth, there’s no real guidebook itinerary to follow, as Copenhagen is a city that rewards a freewheeling approach (and that also means it’s best explored by bike). Discovering the latest food or drink fad is also a local obsession.

Read our Copenhagen travel guide

For 2023, Copenhagen has been announced as Unesco’s latest World Capital of Architecture . Additionally, Designmuseum Denmark , which tells the proud and unequalled story of Danish design, is to reopen after two years of renovation.

The country’s most atmospheric medieval city is chock-a-block with fairy tale tropes: witch’s hat churches, hunched streets, royal gardens and even a Cinderella-worthy palace. That it was the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen helps fuel such interpretation, but so does the imagination-inspiring HC Andersen’s Hus , a museum tribute to the author that’s now rooted above and below the heart of the historic core. Beyond the city limits, expect scenery fit for royalty, from unmissable Egeskov Castle and its rose gardens to Broholm , a living estate and museum now run as a swanky hotel.

The stunning Limfjord, the inland sea that slices through North Jutland, is a region of old secrets and old stories. Viking ships once sailed there and precious seafood cargo was shipped from it to the palaces of Catherine the Great in Saint Petersburg across the Baltic Sea – this kind of history ripples along the fjord. In Nykøbing Mors , you can join tours from the Danish Shellfish Center on a hunt for some of Europe’s last remaining wild oysters – what you find you can slurp straight from the shell. The fjord is home to a rich vein of belt-loosening restaurants. Two places to get stuck in are Sallingsund Faergerko , a historic inn that opened in 1694, and Limfjordens Østersbar , a raw bar in Glyngøre with a stellar fjord panorama.

Factor in less hyperbole and more cultural refinement than at Disneyland and you have this sleepy town turned Lego headquarters, with a Legoland theme park, Lego-themed hotels and a carousel of absolutely terrific family-friendly attractions. For the backstory, the Danish toy company invented its interlocking bricks there 90 years ago – opening its first theme park beside the factory in 1968 – and it’s obvious that, over time, play has percolated into the town’s DNA. It packs out with nearly four million visitors every year, so avoid the summer influx and stick to the quieter months of late spring or early autumn. And if the plastic blocks brought comfort to you while growing up, don’t miss the terrific Lego House , a hybrid of museum and playground, with jaw-dropping models and ingenious interactive displays.

Best under-the-radar destinations

The bridge across the Wadden Sea causeway to the island of Rømø is the gateway to Unesco-listed Wadden Sea National Park , a swathe of beaches and estuaries and the largest protected area in the country. If the pace of modern life is too frenetic for you, then harmony can be found on beach walks in company with spoonbills, starlings and the odd seal – this is the Denmark that most Danes aren’t familiar with. There’s even an argument that says this is west coast Denmark’s ultimate foodie hangout: oysters are an undervalued currency in Denmark, yet an astonishing 72,000 tonnes of the bivalves lie on Rømø ’s seabed. At low-tide you can fill a bucket with free pearl-shaped shells right from the shore; understandably, the local catchphrase is “if you can’t beat ’em, eat ’em”. To finish your west coast experience, visit gloriously pretty Tønder , the oldest market town in Denmark.

Fyn vineyards

Denmark was only accepted as a commercial wine growing area within the European Union in 2000, but what’s remarkable is how the country has one of the fastest growing viticulture industries on the planet. Utter delight can be found along the coasts of Zealand, Jutland and, most recently, Fyn. In truth, some of the sparkling wines and rielsings are still a little experimental (and pricier than those from more established vineyards), but with climate change pushing grape harvests further north every year, the intentions of Danish winemakers are clear: things are only going to get better. Seek out Kimesbjerggaard Vingaard , overlooking the island of Lyø; Svendborg Vingård on the south coast of Fyn’ or Stokkebye — one of the country’s most successful producers of pinot noir.

Hiking clifftop paths, cycling fertile farmlands, swimming on child-friendly beaches, watching sunrise while fishing the coast – the island of Samsø offers all the usual holiday draws, but with one major exception: it’s the world’s first renewable energy island and is completely self-sufficient (indeed, 90% of the island’s wind turbines are owned by locals). Which is to say, holidaying here without guilt and without compromise is the real deal. Thankfully, the beaches, bays, and country walks are as beautiful as anywhere in the country and, as the island is nicknamed Denmark’s ‘vegetable garden’, rest assured that eating out is just as sustainable and green.

Best things to do

Cycle copenhagen.

From much-photographed Nyhavn to up-and-coming Opera Park on the waterfront, Copenhagen is a city designed for cyclists and its matrix-like layout of bike pathways and car-free lanes speaks to the sort of smart urbanism that every city could benefit from. The pinnacle is the Harbour Ring, a 10-mile loop past many of the capital’s must-sees – gear shifting past the Royal Danish Opera House and Black Diamond Library is rather the point of coming to this forward-thinking capital in the first place.

Stay in a ‘badehoteller’

Flitting between sun-drenched shoreline and wind-whipped wild coast, the Danish seaside offers up a hit-or-miss proposition, but nonetheless the country has a strong tradition of beach hotels. Known as badehoteller, these luxurious boltholes and architectural spa properties are as much destinations as the postcard towns and villages they inhabit, with a clear-sighted focus on the slow pace of living and a rich celebration of local food. Rødvig Kro & Badehotel near the chalk and limestone cliffs of Stevns Klint is a favourite, while Skagen at the tip of North Jutland is home to Ruth’s Hotel , a slice of The Hamptons transported to the North Sea coast. Coming in 2024 is Gilleleje Sø- og Havbad (literally, sea and ocean bath), a historical town hall transformed into a boutique hotel in popular Zealand resort town Gilleleje .

Drive the Marguerite Route

Which Denmark do you want? How about all of it. The country-wide Margeurite Route was inaugurated in 1991 as a tribute to Queen Margrethe II and takes in a whopping collection of 1,000-odd castles and attractions to best showcase Danish landscape and history away from the main roads. In one direction that could take you from Holsteinborg Castle on the south coast of Zealand to Herreborgen Borreby , one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved renaissance bastions. Alternatively, it could begin in Jutland, with the road motoring between 12th-century Børglum Abbey north of Aalborg to Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse . Your roadside guide? A succession of signposts decorated with the queen’s favourite flower: the Marguerite daisy.

Getting around

Denmark is a delight to road trip or “bikepack” around, with easy-on-the-eye roadside attractions and infrastructure as good as anywhere in Europe. For train travel, rail operator DSB offers bargain online ‘Orange’ train tickets , offering reduced prices outside rush hour and bigger discounts the sooner you buy. For further travel ideas, see Visit Denmark .

How to get there

The cheapest and quickest way to get to Denmark is on a budget flight into Copenhagen or Billund with the likes of easyJet and Ryanair . Train travel around the country is efficient, with services from Copenhagen running frequently to Odense, Aarhus and beyond.

Money-saving tip

Like all Scandinavian countries, Denmark is more expensive than the UK, but its forward-thinking culture means there are many ways to save money. Eating out isn’t cheap, but a raft of world-class streetside eats means takeaway food is king — in fact, the humble pølser (hot dog) is the national snack of Denmark.

What’s the weather like?

The Vikings worshipped many gods in Denmark, from Odin and Thor to Frey and Freyja, but today it’s fair to say that it’s Sól – the sun god – who lodges in the mind. The Danes love the sun, but the temperate Nordic climate means it rains consistently throughout the year, with temperature highs of around 22°C in summer and winter lows hovering between −2 and 4°C.

What time zone is it in?

What currency do i need.

Danish Krone (DKK)

What language is spoken?

Danish. Helpfully, English is widely spoken everywhere.

Read more on the best Denmark hotels

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Travel Guide Denmark

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From being a little-known, little-understood country wedged between mainland Europe and the rest of Scandinavia, Denmark has morphed into an international cultural powerhouse with multiple Michelin-starred restaurants and raved-about hit TV shows. But this international renown doesn’t make the country any less thrilling to navigate on the ground and on a budget.

Where to go in Denmark

Denmark fact file.

Food-wise, you’d be hard pressed to find better butter, bacon and beer anywhere around, with some mean cheeses and pastries to boot. But don’t expect this health-conscious people to sit around feasting all day: a bunch will have jogged past your table before you can say smørrebrød, and cycling is ubiquitous. With agriculture its primary industry, technological innovation and a focus on green energy is a big part of the economy of daily life. Culturally, too, it hits the high notes. Expect impeccable design and great musical offerings (especially jazz) at every turn. What’s more, an ultra-efficient transport infrastructure makes Denmark one of Europe’s most enjoyable countries to explore.

The nation has preserved its own distinct identity, exemplified by the universally cherished royal family and the reluctance to fully integrate with the EU (the Danish rejection of the euro was more about sovereignty than economics). There’s also a sense of a small country that has long punched above its weight: it once controlled much of northern Europe and still maintains close ties with Greenland, its former colony.

Geographically, three main landmasses make up the country – the islands of Zealand and Funen and the peninsula of Jutland, which extends northwards from Germany. Most visitors make for Zealand (Sjælland), and, more specifically, Copenhagen , an exciting city with a beautiful old centre, an amazing array of museums and a boisterous nightlife. Funen (Fyn) has only one real urban draw, Odense , once home to Hans Christian Andersen; otherwise, it’s renowned for cute villages and sandy beaches. Jutland (Jylland) has two of the sprightliest Danish cities in Århus and Aalborg , as well as scenery alternating between lonely beaches, gentle hills and heathland.

Discover more places in Denmark

• The Faroe Islands Travel Guide

Population 5.6 million

Language Danish

Currency Danish krone (kr)

Capital Copenhagen

International phone code : t 45

Top image: Mykines lighthouse, Faroe Islands © Smelov

Travel advice for Denmark

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Denmark

• How to get to Denmark
• Culture and Etiquette in Denmark
• Eating and drinking in Denmark
• Getting around Denmark: Transportation Tips
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Denmark
• Travel Tips Denmark for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Denmark

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Copenhagen Travel Guide

Like some sort of mythological riddle, Copenhagen seems to embody every phase of life at once. Want to evoke memories of childhood? Head to the whimsical Tivoli Gardens (which, unlike the Little Mermaid statue, is worth the crowds). Those college stoner days? Bond with bohemians across the river in Christiania. How about your seemingly endless hipster phase? Take a stroll though Nørrebro, where twenty-somethings dressed in wide-leg jeans and top knots are as ubiquitous as the eco-friendly concept stores. But among all that nostalgia, Copenhagen is a city planted firmly—and constantly—in the present. The Danish capital continues to churn out imaginative, ultra-modern hotels, as well as its famously cutting-edge restaurants (Noma is just the beginning—the city currently lays claim to a whopping 15 Michelin-starred restaurants). But when in existential doubt, take a pause and open your eyes: One glimpse of the waterfront, Crayola-bright houses of Nyhavn will bring you right back to where your feet are.

Plan Your Copenhagen Trip

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Ultimate Denmark travel guide – everything to plan your trip

Planning a trip to Denmark? Great idea! This Denmark Travel Guide will show you things to do in Denmark, cities in Denmark you should definitely visit, and lots of practical information to help you plan your Denmark trip.

Denmark is located in the north of Europe, bordering Germany, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea. The Nordic country is the smallest and southernmost of the Scandinavian countries. The small country is made up of the Danish Archipelago and consists of around 406 islands, 70 of which are inhabited in Denmark.

Officially known as the Kingdom of Denmark, it also includes the Faroe Island and Greenland. It’s one of the founding members of NATO and is also a member of the European Union, the World Trade Organization and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The laid-back country has a rich culture and history with several UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit. With a world-class food scene, Denmark is a foodie’s paradise.

Denmark Travel Guide: quick facts

Denmark regions, entry requirements, fly to denmark, independent travel around denmark, the best places to stay in denmark, what to pack for denmark in summer, what to pack for denmark in winter, what to pack for denmark in fall, what to pack for denmark in spring, the best time to visit denmark, what to eat in denmark, famous events in denmark, bank holidays in denmark, cultural customs to be aware of in denmark, don't forget travel insurance, basic phrases and their pronunciation, travel safety in denmark, the use of cash and cards in denmark, calling abroad, wifi and data use in denmark, tipping in denmark, a brief history of denmark, posts about denmark, pin for later.

Size: 42,915.7 km² or 16,562.1 sq mi

People living there: More than 5,650,000

Capital of Denmark: Copenhagen

Governmental structure: A parliamentary democracy within a constitutional monarchy in which the monarch of Denmark, Queen Margarethe II, is head of state.

National day: June 5

Time zones:

• UTC-4: Thule Air Base in Greenland
• UTC-3: most of Greenland, including inhabited south coast and west coast
• UTC-1: Ittoqqortoormiit and surrounding area in Greenland's Tunu county
• UTC: Danmarkshavn weather station and surrounding area in Greenland's Tunu county, Faroe Islands
• Central European Time (CET) / UTC+1: metropolitan Denmark

Currency: Danish krone

Power voltage and socket type(s): 230V, plug types C, F, E, K. If these don't match with your devices, make sure to bring a universal adapter .

Official religion(s)/Freedom of religion: Freedom of religion. Overall Denmark is a secular country with a small amount of the population identifying as Christian, Buddhist, and Muslim.

Official language(s) and general knowledge of English: The official language is Danish. English is widely spoken.

Drives on this side: right

International driver's licence accepted? Yes

Phone code: +45

Vaccinations required? No

Is it safe to drink the tap water? Yes

Want more quick facts about Denmark? Check out my post full of interesting facts about Denmark .

Denmark is divided into five regions with each region being governed by a popularly elected regional council, where the regional chairman is selected. The regions were created as administrative entities in 2007 at a level above municipalities but below the central government.  

Northwest of the capital is Denmark’s largest lake, Arresø, perfect for an evening walk. Copenhagen’s infamous alternative neighborhood, Christiana, offers up a mixture of art galleries, music venues, and organic eateries.

The popular Scandinavian destination is one of the best places to visit in Denmark and boasts a number of museums and exceptional restaurants. A great option for families, you can find LEGOLAND and the Mols Bjerge National Park to explore. Central Aarhus has its beautiful Old Town which acts like an open-air museum of Denmark’s rich past. For art lovers, the ARoS Art Museum features a rainbow skywalk designed by artist Olafur Eliasson  

Thy park is Denmark’s oldest and biggest natural park is located on the north-west coast of Jutland. While here, tourists visiting Denmark can take part in a number of great outdoor actives including hiking and windsurfing. To learn more about Denmark’s fascinating Viking history, visit Lindholm Høje and Fyrkat.  

Here, Roskilde is another one of the best cities to visit during a trip to Denmark. It has a historical center where you can find the Viking Ship Museum and see 800-year-old Viking ships. The coastline in Stevns Klint in the south Zealand region has some of the most important fossils in the world. Wander along the coastline and take in 65 million years of history.  

The south-west coast is home to the UNESCO protected Wadden Sea and can be especially rewarding for wildlife lovers. The region is also home to Denmark’s largest population of spotted seals, with the summer months being the best for sightings.

With a strong influence from Germany, the region’s cuisine is exquisite. For a traditional eating experience, try a South Denmark Coffee Table which consists of 14 types of cake. This can be found at a number of places across the region and is not for the faint-hearted.

How to travel to Denmark

Denmark is part of the European Union’s Schengen Agreement which means that you don’t need to show your national ID card or passport when you are traveling to and from Denmark if you’re from a Schengen Agreement country. It is, however, recommended that you still carry your ID or passport on you.  

How to get to Denmark

It’s easy to travel by bus from Germany or via the Øresund bridge from Sweden. The bridge connects the Swedish city of Malmö to Copenhagen. There are a number of daily buses from Germany to Denmark. Although traveling by bus takes longer, it’s usually more cost-efficient. On average, the journey takes approximately 11 hours. You can reach Copenhagen from Sweden by bus in roughly 55 minutes. Budget long distance bus companies include Flixbus, Eurolines and Sindbad.

Check bus routes to Denmark with Flixbus.  

The capital can be reached easily by train with a train from Hamburg to Copenhagen taking around 5 hours. Copenhagen also connects with Swedish cities Goteborg, Stockholm, and Malmö. It takes 35 minutes to reach Copenhagen from Malmö.

Check here for train timetables and prices within Europe.  

Getting to Denmark by ferry is possible from Sweden, Germany, Norway, and the UK.

• Stenaline provides ferry service from Sweden and Norway.
• Scandlines can take you from Germany to Denmark by ferry.
• DFDS Seaways connect the UK to Denmark by ferry.
• Fjord Line offers ferry service between Norway and Denmark.
• ColorLine also offers ferry service between Norway and Denmark.

Look here for a good overview of ferry routes and prices to Denmark.  

The biggest airport is Copenhagen airport on the island of Zealand. You should be able to find direct routes to Copenhagen from most major airports all over the world. Denmark’s second busiest airport, Billund, on the Jutland peninsula is another option when flying. If you’re heading to central Jutland then Aalborg is the third largest airport and services this area.

Check Skyscanner for the best flights to Denmark. They give you a good overview of flight options and prices.

How to travel around Denmark

The excellent road system means there are a number of long-distance coach routes that will show you the best of Denmark for a very reasonable price. They usually focus on certain regions and don't always have a website in English so make sure to use the Google Translate function in your browser. Alternatively, you can get in touch with the local tourist offices for more information.

Ferries also make up an essential service for Denmark with ferries and passenger boats taking you to and from the smaller Danish islands. Samsø Rederi is just an example of a domestic ferry company. It offers a ferry service between Jutland and Samsø.

Traveling by car is an easy and efficient way to get around Denmark due to the brilliant road system and may be more suitable if you’re on a tighter schedule. Just take into account you might need to pay toll when crossing bridges.

Check Rentalcars.com for the most extensive comparison and the best deals for car rental companies.  

One of the best booking resources I always use is Booking.com for booking hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts. It has a lot of filtering options so I can easily get a list of only the hotels that meet my criteria. If you're looking for a place to stay in Denmark, I highly recommend you check there .

When I want to book an apartment rather than a hotel, I use Airbnb .  

What to pack for Denmark

The west coast of Denmark sees more rainfall than the rest of the country due to a prevailing western wind. There are no truly dry periods but September to November tends to be the wettest season. No matter the time of year, taking items that layer up is key to packing for Denmark.  

• Shorts/skirts/dresses
• A re-usable water bottle
• A warm, wind- and waterproof jacket
• A thick scarf
• A waterproof jacket
• An umbrella
• Waterproof boots
• A jumper or cardigan
• A waterproof coat
• Clothes to kayer
• Comfortable walking shoes

With a massive coastline full of beaches, the best time to go swimming in Denmark is between June and August with the average sea temperature being between 17°C and 22°C. Denmark welcomes Midsummer’s Eve, the longest day of the year, around June 21 with a country-wide celebration. For one of the country’s best music festival, visit Denmark during the first week of July to experience the Roskilde Music Festival.  

• Stegt flæsk , crispy pork with parsley sauce
• Smørebrød , open-faced sandwich
• Pølser , hot dog
• Æbleskiver , small, round pancakes usually filled with apples
• Wienerbrød , a Danish pastry, a sweet and buttery multi-layered pastry
• Risalamande , a dessert made up of rice pudding mixed with chopped almonds, vanilla, and whipped cream usually served with a cherry sauce
• Lakrids , licorice
• Flodebolle , a sweet made from a wafer biscuit and marshmallow cream covered in a chocolate shell
• Rugbrod , rye bread
• Æbleflæsk , bacon, apples, onions, and sugar mixed together then served on rugbrod (rye bread)

Check out this article on Danish food for even more tips.

• Roskilde Festival , Roskilde (June) – the largest music and cultural event in northern Europe attracting 80,000 people annually to enjoy a week of music and art.
• Skagen Winter Swimming Festival , Skagen (January) – the event guarantees ice-cold sea dips, hot drinks and a close experience with the unique nature of Skagen.
• Copenhagen Jazz Festival , Copenhagen (July) – one of the biggest jazz festivals in Europe, the city comes alive with jazz in the streets, city squares, and clubs.
• Aarhus Festival, Aarhus (August to early September) – the 10-day arts and cultural festival is among one of the largest cultural events in Scandinavia with local, national and international artists.
• Ribe International Viking Market , Ribe (May) – over 500 Vikings flock to Ribe to experience how the Vikings would have lived and worked 1,300 years ago.
• Aalborg Carnival , Aalborg (May ) – the largest carnival in Northern Europe with up to 60,000 participants and more than 100,000 spectators, ending in a spectacular Grande Parade.
• Classic Race Aarhus , Aarhus (May) – 300 racing cars from Denmark and abroad come to the historical race track for the event at Marselisborg Memorial Park.
• Beer Festival , Copenhagen (May) – the three-day beer festival is popular among the Danish and beer enthusiasts.
• Blokhus Wind Festival , Blokhus (May) – a beautiful kite festival on the beach in Blokhus with the opportunity to fly your own kite and enjoy great performances.
• Odense International Film Festival , Odense (August) – experience national as well as international short films at the Danish film festival.

• New Year’s Day
• Maundy Thursday
• Good Friday
• Easter Sunday
• Easter Monday
• Day of Prayer
• Ascension Day
• Whit Sunday
• Whit Monday
• Constitution Day (June 5)
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day
• Second Day of Christmas

Denmark is a well-oiled machine and Danes tend to follow the rules. Courteous behavior is expected from everyone whether it be locals or tourists. Follow the rules when you travel Denmark and remember not to jaywalk across the street. When cycling through Danish cities, use your hand signals. Generally, cultural customs are easy to follow here but don’t be surprised by Dane’s lack of social pleasantries. The lack of please’s and thank you’s might be a surprise for non-Scandinavian travelers.  

No matter how well you plan and research a trip, there are always things that happen beyond your control. Something might get canceled, you can get ill or hurt while traveling or one of your electronics might break or get stolen. When misfortune strikes, travel insurance has got you covered. I've had ongoing travel insurance ever since I started traveling to make sure I'm covered for every trip I go on. Don't have insurance yet? You can get a free quote here:

Those with a SIM card from an EU country don't have to pay roaming charges when calling, texting, or using data in Denmark. The same goes for some global phone plans.

Skyroam offers both day passes and monthly subscriptions providing you with 4G throughout your trips. I've been using their daily passes not just when I travel outside the EU (no roaming charges for me in the EU) but also as a backup for when I think I'll go over my phone's data plan.

Tipping is not customary in Denmark as service, including gratuities, is already included in the bill and salaries are decent. Even at restaurants and bars, there's no need to tip. It won't be frowned upon if you top for excellent service but it also won't be expected. You can read more about that here .

The German occupation of Denmark in WWII finished in 1945 after five years. Following on from the war, Denmark was a leader in industrial design with cool clean lines that features in its architecture, silverware, and furniture. As a founding member of the UN in 1945, Denmark went on to join the European community in 1973. With the first female prime minister in office and the legalization of same-sex marriage in the 2010s, Denmark has come along away from its Viking days. Much of the country’s culture and history can be still be seen today throughout Denmark.  

And that's it!! I hope these Denmark travel tips have given you an idea of what to see in Denmark and how to plan your trip to this beautiful country.  

Click here for all the Denmark blogs I've written on top of this Denmark Travel Guide.  

Find below the best travel guides about Denmark.

20 Awesome Things to do in Odense: Museums, History and Travel Guide

18 fun things to do in Copenhagen: Museums, History and Travel Guide

17 Remarkable Things to do in Aarhus: Museums, History and Travel Guide

18 Best Places to visit in Denmark all year round!

Is the Copenhagen Card worth it? An honest review and details of savings

An introduction to Danish Food: 15 Danish dishes to try

77 fun facts about Denmark that will surprise you

Join 58,000+ other Wonderful Wanderers!

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Copenhagen

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to Copenhagen.

Best Hotels

Best things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, how to get there, best times to visit, neighborhoods to know, how to get around.

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Named one of the best places to travel in 2023 by Travel + Leisure , Copenhagen continues to draw in tourists with its exceptional food, history, and architecture. The city was officially named the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. On top of its newly recognized architectural prowess, the city continues to wow tourists with its tried-and-true offerings — whether that's dining at Noma, the Michelin three-starred restaurant that announced its closure in winter 2024, or strolling the always-popular Tivoli Gardens.

Here, your essential Copenhagen guide for hotels, things to do, restaurants, and so much more.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest operating theme park in the world.
• Jægersborggade Street is lined with some of the best shops in Copenhagen, including a famous ceramics boutique.
• The Alchemist keeps guests entertained with performance art and multi-sensory decor while they dine on nearly 50 courses.
• CopenHill is Copenhagen's first ski area and features the world's tallest climbing wall.
• Spend the night at TheKrane — its only room is inside an old coal crane and hangs 49 feet above the ground.

Coco Hotel is the hottest new spot in Denmark's capital city. Not only was it voted as the best hotel in Copenhagen by T+L readers in 2022, it also was named one of the best new hotels in the world in 2022 by T+L editors. The 88-room boutique hotel features bold colors, a European-style cafe, and complimentary bikes for guests. It also makes an effort to be green-conscious, planting a fruit tree somewhere around the world every time a guest checks in and running its facility on a private solar-powered grid.

Hotel d'Angleterre

Hotel d'Angleterre is an iconic, 265-year-old hotel — and it was voted one of the best in Copenhagen by T+L readers in 2022. The charming hotel features modern Nordic design and expansive views of Kongens Nytorv from the suite balconies. With a heated indoor pool — the only one in the city center — and Michelin-starred dining, you might never want to leave. The concierge also offers plenty of V.I.P. experiences for their guests, including cooking classes and history tours.

Sanders Hotel

A tranquil retreat in the center of town, the Sanders Hotel is one of the best stays in Copenhagen, with "midcentury modern touches [that] imbue its 54 rooms with a sense of casual cool," Peter Terzian, T+L features editor, previously reported in the 2022 World's Best Awards. It offers an extensive array of amenities, including loaner bikes for guests (don't forget to ask for a prepared picnic basket) and a glass-encased rooftop terrace that serves up delicious breakfast and gorgeous city views. Be sure to book one of the hotel's exclusive excursions, which includes a backstage pass to the Royal Theater — a short two-minute walk away — or a private guided trip down the nearby canals in a vintage mahogany boat.

There is exactly one guest room at TheKrane , which is why T+L called it one of the coolest hotels in Copenhagen . The room is inside an old coal crane that dates back to 1944 and hangs 49 feet above the ground on Nordhavn's industrial waterfront. A night's stay comes with a hefty price tag, but it includes more than just a place to rest your head — guests will love the complimentary on-site spa, prearranged airport pickup, and daily breakfast.

The Happiness Museum

Denmark, named the second happiest country in the world in 2023, is home to the world's very first happiness museum . Opened in 2020, the museum features several different exhibits on how other countries perceive happiness.

CopenHill is Copenhagen's first ski area — carefully constructed atop a waste management center for the city. In the summer months, visitors can also hike, run, or tackle the world's tallest climbing wall at this urban recreation destination.

Frederiksborg Castle

Located on three islands, surrounded by lush gardens and a large lake, Frederiksborg Castle is a perfect day trip from Copenhagen. The castle is also home to the Museum of National History, which traces 500 years of Danish history through art, furniture, sculptures, and more.

Tivoli Gardens

Don't let the word "gardens" fool you, this expansive park is home to one of the best theme parks in Europe , open from mid-April to mid-September. In the winter, there's still plenty to see and do, with a whimsical Christmas market, over-the-top decorations, and stunning lights. There are plenty of shops and restaurants on the grounds as well.

Read More: 20 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen, From a Palace Visit to Waterfront Strolls

Illums Bolighus

A design aficionado's dream, Illums Bolighus is your one-stop shop for Danish design. With top interiors brands, this is a great under-the-radar spot to snag some memorable souvenirs.

Jægersborggade Street

This buzzy street is home to some of the best shops in Copenhagen. You can find vintage clothing, organic produce, and 40 art galleries. Make sure to check out the ceramics boutiques, including Keramiker Inge Vincents, known for its hand-shaped porcelain.

Prefer to do some tax-free shopping before returning to the airport? Visit megastore Magasin , a department store with a fashionable, vintage feel and plenty of variety. The store started in 1869, and it's still a popular choice among locals because it stays open later than most department stores.

Noma is one of the most famous restaurants in the world, and after a 20-year run, head chef René Redzepi recently announced it will close at the end of 2024. So, eat there while you still can. The Michelin three-starred restaurant's menu changes with the seasons, focusing on vegetarian fare in the summer, game and forest-inspired food in the fall, and seafood in the late winter/early spring.

At the Alchemist , one of the hardest reservations in Copenhagen, "guests enter through an ominous, hand-sculpted door made from two tons of bronze," reported Christina Liao recently in T+L. Food reporter Liao called it one of the best dining experiences in the world and said diners can expect nearly 50 courses surrounded by performance art and immersive, multi-sensory decor.

Alouette is a hidden gem on the Danish dining scene — behind an unobtrusive garage door and past a graffiti-covered hallway lies a surprisingly bright Michelin-starred restaurant that serves a set five-course menu. The menu changes weekly with a focus on small producers and seasonal ingredients.

Copenhagen is best reached by flying into its international airport, which T+L readers voted as one of the  best international airports  in the world in 2022. Copenhagen Airport serves over 100 destinations and is the biggest airport in Denmark.

You can also travel to and from other major European cities, including London, Paris, and Stockholm, aboard  Rail Europe  trains or buses. A train ride from London to Copenhagen will take almost 15 hours, while a bus ride could take up to 35 hours, with multiple stops and long transfers.

The best time to visit Copenhagen is April, May, and September if you're after warmer weather and longer days. You'll encounter fewer crowds than in the peak summer months, but can still enjoy similar temperatures. However, some of the best festivals happen from June to August — like the  Copenhagen Jazz Festival , which takes place every July.

Copenhagen in December is the prime hygge (cozy) and Christmas market season. Travelers can head to the Tivoli Gardens for a gorgeous holiday light display. If you can't make it in December, you can still enjoy a light show in February when the city hosts its now-annual Copenhagen Light Festival .

Read More: The Best Times to Visit Copenhagen for Great Weather, Lower Prices, and Fewer Crowds

City Center: Copenhagen's City Center is where you'll find hotels like Hotel d'Angleterre and Nyhavn, the waterfront district "tailor-made for Instagram, with colorful townhouses and boats bobbing in the canals," Lindsay Cohn, a T+L contributor, previously reported . This area is home to CPH's top attractions, including Kongens Nytorv, the largest public square in the city.

Frederiksberg: Frederiksberg is another tourist hot spot within Copenhagen and is home to terrific shopping and attractions like the Frederiksberg Palace and the Copenhagen Zoo.

Nørrebro: Northeast of the city center, Nørrebro is "the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen," architect Camilla van Deurs told T+L recently . You'll find some of Copenhagen's best pan-Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants here.

Vesterbro/Kødbyen: Vesterbro was once considered Copenhagen's red light district. It's known for its nightlife, but there are also charming, residential, family-friendly areas in the neighborhood, as well. Within Vesterbro, you'll find Kødbyen, otherwise known as Copenhagen's meatpacking district.

Christianshavn: Technically a cluster of small islands, Christianshavn is teeming with waterways and charming, colorful row homes. Here, you can rent boats or kayaks to explore the canals or take a dip in one of Copenhagen's harbor baths.

Train, bus, and metro: Copenhagen's public transportation network unites trains, buses, and metros in one easy-to-understand system. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks at the airport and throughout the city, on the DOT Mobilbilletter app , or online , with prices varying by zone. You can also purchase a City Pass , which will give you unlimited access to specific zones depending on which one you purchase. Download the Rejseplanen app to see public transportation schedules with minute-by-minute updates.

Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Copenhagen. If you need a cab, there are several companies, like Dantaxi , you can contact directly for pickup.

Car service: If you don't want a taxi, you can book town car or black car services with companies like Sixt to help you get around, or use the zero-emission ride-sharing service Viggo . Copenhagen is not serviced by Uber or Lyft.

Bikes: Copenhagen is a city best explored by bike. In fact, according to the Copenhagen Tourism website , 49 percent of locals commute to work on bikes. Plan your ride around the city's many biking routes and bridges, or try to tackle the bike route used in the 2022 Tour de France Grand Départ, which took place in Copenhagen.

A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

Copenhagen Travel Guide

Danes are consistently rated as among the happiest people on earth so it was a no brainer to visit Denmark and see what all the fuss was about! At first glance, it’s hard to believe a country with harsh cold winters and short sunny summers could be utopia, but after spending a short week in Copenhagen I fell pretty in love myself!

From the coolest Danish interior designers to mouthwatering Danish food and jaw dropping Danish castle museums, everything and anything is avant garde here. If you’re planning your own trip, here are my top tips for things to see, do and try in Copenhagen!

Click the links to jump directly to each section

• Before You Go: Denmark Travel Checklist
• The Copenhagen Tourist Map : best sights you can't miss in Denmark!
• Where to Stay in Copenhagen : which neighborhood is the best?
• What to Eat in Denmark : must-have local Danish cuisine
• Is Copenhagen Expensive?  and how you can maximize your budget in Denmark
• Copenhagen Day Trips  for those with limited time
• Getting Around Copenhagen  how to get to Copenhagen, get around and general tips

Keep reading for some useful travel advice and of course, lots of images of Copenhagen!

Before You Go

We picked up a copy of Rick Steves to get our travel planning kick started. He’s not the authority on everywhere, but his books are packed full of great knowledge, times tables and insider tips so they always make a great guide.

We also did lots of food research and watched tons of Chef’s Table, where Rene Redzepi pops up in a couple episodes. He’s also in David Chang’s Ugly Delicious series, where an episode talks to him about his newest Noma pop up in Tulum.

Danish design is also swoonworthy. There are some interior design stores in NYC that carry Danish masters like Arne Jacobsen and Finn Juhl, but not many.

Books, Shows & Films to Get in the Mood for Your Trip to Denmark:

• Guidebooks :  Rick Steves Copenhagen
• Books : 101 Danish Design Icons , The Little Book of Hygge , How to Be Danish

The Copenhagen Tourist Map

There's so much to see and do in Denmark's capital. If you like history and architecture, don't skip Rosenborg Castle where Danish royalty once lived and where the Danish crown jewels glitter on display. If you like to people watch, Mad & Kaffe and The Living Room are some of the top coffee shops in Copenhagen with delicious small bites. Museum lovers shouldn't miss SMK or Glyptoket .

Tivoli Gardens , an outdoor amusement park, is fun for both adults and families while the Little Mermaid is an iconic statue docked just off north Copenhagen's cruise harbor. And if you love exploring local cuisine, make some room for Geranium , Copenhagen's only 3 star Michelin restaurant or  Aamanns , the king of smørrebrød and a classic Danish lunch spot.

Check out my complete guide to the best things to do in Copenhagen HERE .

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

If you love boutique hotels as much as I do, you're in for a treat. Copenhagen has so many unique, beautiful hotels with stylish Scandinavian furniture, filling breakfasts and cheerful happy hour. Lots of hotels offer a fantastic breakfast, a free drink at happy hour and plenty of lounge space to mingle (perfect if you're visiting solo or want to meet other travelers).

• For a budget hotel, check out Generator Copenhagen - these are a fancy hostel where you can choose shared or single rooms and the design is really something else. I'm not a hostel person but these are so much fancier than your traditional hostel, I'm not sure what category to put them in! Generator has locations all over Europe and they usually are located right in the center of town - in Copenhagen it's between Downtown and Christiansborg.  Check rates & availability here .
• For a true Danish hotel experience, stay at Ibsens . Near Torvehallerne and Rosenborg palace, this hotel is a great value hotel with complimentary happy hour, minimalist rooms and a heavenly breakfast of locally sourced Danish produce. Check rates & availability here or read our in-depth review here .
• For sumptuous, beautifully furnished rooms and first class service, stay at Hotel D'Angleterre . The oldest luxury hotel in Copenhagen, this one is located right in Kongens Nyrtov square close to shopping and sights. It's also THE spot in town for luxury, with its on site restaurant holding 1 michelin star.  Check rates & availability here

For a complete guide to Copenhagen's neighborhoods and tons of expert recommended hotels, check out my in-depth post on Copenhagen hotels HERE .

What to Eat in Copenhagen

Whether you want comforting Danish classics, new age Nordic cuisine or international cuisine, Copenhagen has a great restaurant scene. Make sure to try local pastries and pick up a bag of local coffee beans - Danes take their bread and coffee seriously!

Copenhagen is one of the most fun cities to explore for gourmands so eat away! I recommend sampling smorrebrod (open faced sandwich), grod (porridge) and aebleflaesk (apple pork) at least once before you leave. While their translated English names don't sound all that fantastic, trust me, they're delicious!

Is Copenhagen Expensive?

In one word,  yes.  The only thing holding me back from packing up my bags and relocating to Denmark is how incredibly expensive the cost of living is.

Here are some tips for visiting Copenhagen on a budget:

Meals hit the hardest - basic foods like hot dogs or ramen can cost $20-25 per person and still leave you hungry. Cheap, delicious eats in Copenhagen tend to be from other cuisines so try Vietnamese, Thai or Indian food while you're in town!

Surprisingly, I actually thought the set menus at fine dining restaurants offered better value for your buck so don't rule those out for your trip. I compiled a list of incredible Danish restaurants here .

Decide which sights and attractions you want to visit and determine if the Copenhagen Card is worth it for your trip. It includes public transportation and lots of the top sights in Copenhagen so it can be quite budget friendly! I break down how we used it in this post HERE and whether it was worth the purchase

Consider traveling in the off season. Airfare dips and in November and December, Copenhagen celebrates Christmas in the coziest way! Check flight deals here .

Try out Airbnb   if you're looking for accommodation on a budget. Danish apartments have some beautiful architecture so you often find a local's place that's beautifully designed and more affordable.

Or, choose a cheaper hotel slightly outside the city center to save on accommodation. Check out my review of Ibsens Hotel , our first hotel spot which was convenient and affordable. 

Copenhagen Day Trips

Some of the best things we did was explore outside of downtown Copenhagen. I highly recommend visiting the Louisiana Museum of Art, even if you don't like art - it's a unique space built to house modern art within nature. The area is really scenic, right near the ocean, and even the lake and trees feel sculptural.

Another great day trip is to Hamlet's Castle, called Kronborg Castle in Denmark. We loved seeing the castle's interiors and discovering Holger the Dane in the castle's crypt.

You can also day trip to Malmo, Sweden if you have extra time in Copenhagen (just make sure to exchange some Krona first). Other up and coming Danish cities include Aarhus and Odense.

Getting Around Copenhagen

Danes love riding their bicycles and it feels like pedestrians are the second citizens in Copenhagen! Join in on the fun by renting a bike (hotels usually offer this) or you can find bike shops for day rentals - it will be around $25 USD per day.

We used Copenhagen's subway, buses and trains quite a bit and found them very easy to navigate. For buses, I usually rely on Google Maps on my phone so that I know where to get off. Also don't forget that if you have a Copenhagen Card all public transportation in and around Copenhagen is free!

To get to and from the airport, we took the metro and then airport link. That too, is free with the Copenhagen Card, and pretty stress free with lots of luggage if you travel outside of rush hour.

Enjoy your trip to Copenhagen! If you have any questions about planning a visit to Denmark, let me know in the comments.

Planning a Trip to Denmark – Travel Checklist

Flights | Many European airlines will offer flights to Denmark with a stopover. Flights from New York weren't cheap, but booking in advance helps. Check for  flight deals here .

Travel Tips | We spent a week in Copenhagen and as it was our first time visiting Denmark, we wanted to see the sights. Purchasing the 5-day Copenhagen Card saved us quite a bit on admission prices but do check their list of included attractions here to make sure that it's worth it for your visit.

Accommodation | Lastly, we decided to switch hotels to explore Copenhagen's different neighborhoods . The city is quite large so it was nice to base ourselves in different districts! Hotels get quite expensive (well, Copenhagen as a whole is wallet shattering) so check hotel availability and book in advance. Check here for great deals on accommodation .

Or, give  Airbnb  a go. There are some beautiful Danish apartments available for rent!

Insurance | Our bags were left behind for 3 days due to an airport-wide tech issue in Amsterdam. We knew when we pulled up to the airport that something was wrong because the lines were complete chaos and everyone stood still at the baggage drop off. Once they told us to put our bags through baggage drop, we did it and I immediately had a bad feeling about it – wish we had went carry on only! 

Luckily, we had travel insurance  which reimbursed us for out of pocket expenses. Whether your luggage is lost, your phone gets stolen, or you get injured and need to be hospitalized, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a  quote for your trip here .

Copenhagen Vacation Planning Articles

A First Timer's Guide to Visiting Copenhagen

When Is the Best Time to Visit Copenhagen?

A Neighborhood Guide to Where to Stay in Copenhagen

25 Incredible Things to Do in Copenhagen Before You Die

Denmark for First Timers: A 3 Day Copenhagen Itinerary

Copenhagen Sights, Activities & Tours We Especially Enjoyed:

Will a Copenhagen Card Save You Money? We Weigh the Pros & Cons

5 Fairy Tale Copenhagen Castles That Will Make Your Jaw Drop

21 Copenhagen Museums that Show the Unique Beauty of Denmark

Denmark Restaurant & Hotel Reviews

Danish Food Guide: 30 of the Best Restaurants in Copenhagen

A Michelin Star Dinner in Copenhagen: Marchal at D'Angleterre

Ibsens Hotel Review : Is This the Best Hotel in Copenhagen?

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Absolutely beautiful photos Sher! I wanna go to Copenhagen so bad this summer!!

Aw thanks Dave! Go!! It was one of my favorite cities to date :)

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I have no idea why I haven’t visit Copenhagen yet. Those pictures look unreal. WOW.

Thanks Darryl! Get on itttt :)

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Your photos are beautiful and this article is so informative. What places might you recommend in Copenhagen for first time visitors with small children like myself. My little ones are 1 and 4 years old. I should also add, we’re not long distance walkers.

Hey Nkele – thanks! I’ll caveat this by saying I don’t have kids but I think they would LOVE Tivoli. It’s got amusement park rides, is beautiful and tons of food! Enough for both adults and kids to enjoy :)

So many beautiful photos! I can’t believe how stunningly beautiful Copenhagen is…and its castles, just wow! I need to force my husband that we go there asap!

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Denmark travel guide

Copenhagen is Denmark’s main draw. With the popularity of Danish design, Scandi crime dramas and the country’s Michelin-starred cuisine, this too-cool-for-school city is suddenly hot property. But Denmark has plenty of other attractions, including picture-postcard pretty fishing villages, islands fringed with white-sand beaches and attractive historic towns. Our travel guide has all the info you need to start planning the perfect Danish adventure!

Before you go

Destinations.

Tempting as it is to stick around and enjoy Copenhagen’s laid-back atmosphere and trendy vibe, it’s worth exploring some of Denmark’s other cities and countryside too. Surrounding Copenhagen is the island of Zealand, whose shores are dotted with quaint little fishing villages and offshore islets. To the west, on the island of Funen , you’ll find pretty villages, sandy beaches and the town of Odense , whose famous son Hans Christian Anderson is the main tourist draw. The Jutland peninsula is home to the two lively, cosmopolitan cities of Aarhus and Aalborg , but venture out to its western coast and you’ll discover a wilder more dramatic landscape of forests, moors and indented coastlines that few visitors explore.

Transport and getting around

Denmark’s rail network is extensive, reliable and reasonably priced. Bus travel is a good option, too, though is not much cheaper than the train. Many of Denmark’s islands are connected to the mainland by bridge, while others can be accessed by ferry, some of which take cars and some only passengers. The best way to travel, however, is as the locals do – by bike. Since much of Denmark is flat and has a good network of cycle lanes, it’s a great way to really explore the country.

Denmark’s major bridges: the ultimate guide

Norway has its fjords and mountains, Sweden its forests and Finland its thousands of lakes. And the thing that makes…

Renting a car in Denmark

Denmark’s roads are some of the safest in Europe. They’re almost always in good condition and there’s a well-maintained motorway…

Getting from Copenhagen to Aarhus

Why not experience a bit more of Denmark while you’re in Copenhagen? It’s easy to combine visiting the capital with…

Travel tips and ideas for your trip

Accommodation.

Architecture buffs can check out the best Danish design in Copenhagen’s trendy hotels and loft apartments. Or you might prefer to stay in an 800-year old castle, or a simple but beautifully furnished cabin on an island. Denmark has some great accommodation options from the seriously quirky – fancy staying in a crane anyone? – through the downright luxurious, to back-to-nature hideaways.

The best hostels in Copenhagen

Some people try to see Copenhagen in a day, squeezing in as many canals, cafés and Carlsbergs as possible. But…

Unusual places to stay in Denmark

Denmark has some amazing places to stay, whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splash out for a…

The best hostels in Aarhus

With a combination of cosy cafés and bars, international-class museums and colourful cultural events, plus a forest around almost every…

Find a place to stay in Denmark

Tours and tickets.

Bike tours, walking tours, foodie tours, boat tours and even a guided pub crawl – taking an organized trip can be a great way to get to know the hidden out-of-the-way places in a city, and some of the locals too. Check out our guide to Denmark’s best tours, and save money too with discount tickets such as the Copenhagen Card, which includes free transport, a canal trip and entrance to most of the city’s museums and sights.

Alternative Tour in Copenhagen

Learn how hippies took over a military base and how a historic working class district transformed into a hip neighborhood of entrepreneurs and artists.

Copenhagen Inner City Day Trip

See important sites of Copenhagen with a local guide. Visit royal palaces and the seat of the Danish Parliament and sail for 1 hour on a harbor cruise.

Culinary Experience Tour in Copenhagen

See Copenhagen through the eyes of a foodie with this rich food and culture tour. Have enough for a meal and leave your minds and tastebuds satisfied.

Copenhagen Old Town Walk

Get a comprehensive overview of the old town of Copenhagen. See many of the old town’s most historic sights and neighborhoods.

Walking tour of creative Copenhagen

This fun walking tour will take you to see Copenhagen’s hippest, most creative neighbourhoods.

Copenhagen highlights: three-hour bike tour

Explore Copenhagen like a local on this fun, three-hour bike tour. Includes a trip to see the Little Mermaid statue!

Private bike tour of Copenhagen

Explore pretty backstreets and visit some of Copenhagen’s big sights on this private, three-hour bike tour.

Walking tour of Copenhagen’s highlights

If you’re looking for a nice intro to Copenhagen but don’t have the time or budget for big, multi-day excursions, this walking tour is for you!

MORE TOURS  

The Danes love a party and have a festival to celebrate pretty much everything – gin, organic cows, tulips, video games, board games and Vikings to mention just a few. So whether you’re looking to freak out at the famous Roskilde Festival, dress up as a wizard, or sample the best open sandwiches and beer, check out our events calendar to find out what’s happening when. [ai1ec view=”posterboard” cat_name=”denmark” events_limit=”8″ display_filters=”false”]

MORE EVENTS IN DENMARK

Exploring Copenhagen

10 of the best bike tours in Copenhagen

What’s the best way to go sightseeing in Copenhagen? By bike, of course.  The city is regularly ranked number one…

The best canal tours and boat trips in Copenhagen

There are loads of guided canal tours and boat trips to enjoy in Copenhagen, and you can even rent your own boat for a bit of self-guided exploration!

82 cheap and free things to do in Copenhagen (2024 update!)

Copenhagen is one of those cities that will make your wallet sigh. Prices are high compared with most other European…

Beyond weed: visiting Christiania in Copenhagen

Right in the middle of Copenhagen, in the neighbourhood of Christianshavn, you’ll find the alternative community of Christiania. It might…

Copenhagen Card: is it worth buying in 2024?

Denmark’s stunning Louisiana Museum is included on the Copenhagen Card – DISCOVER

Visiting Copenhagen in winter

Have you heard horror stories of dark Scandinavian winters that never seem to end? Don’t despair! If you visit Copenhagen…

Getting from Copenhagen Airport to the city centre

Copenhagen’s sprawling Kastrup airport is the largest and busiest airport in Scandinavia. However, arriving here can be a surprisingly nice…

Free museums in Copenhagen

Until recently most of the state-run museums in Copenhagen were completely free to visit, which made it possible to spend…

Where to find cheap and tasty food in Copenhagen

Food critics always bang on about places inspired by Noma, one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive restaurants. Spend…

About our Denmark travel guide

The Routes North Denmark guide is written by journalists and locals who really know their stuff. And because we don’t take freebies or discounts from travel companies, you can trust us to tell it is how it is.

©Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Copenhagen is the epitome of Scandi cool. Modernist lamps light New Nordic tables, bridges buzz with cycling commuters and locals dive into pristine waterways.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tivoli Gardens

Dating from 1843, tasteful Tivoli wins fans with its dreamy whirl of amusement rides, twinkling pavilions, carnival games and open-air stage shows…

Christiania

Escape the capitalist crunch and head to Freetown Christiania, a hash-scented commune straddling the eastern side of Christianshavn. Since its…

Rosenborg Slot

A 'once upon a time' combo of turrets, gables and moat, the early-17th-century Rosenborg Slot was built in Dutch Renaissance style between 1606 and 1633…

Statens Museum for Kunst

Denmark's National Gallery straddles two contrasting, interconnected buildings: a late-19th-century 'palazzo' and a sharply minimalist extension. The…

There are few nicer places to be on a sunny day than sitting at an outdoor table at a cafe on the quayside of the Nyhavn canal. The canal was built to…

Christiansborg Slot

Christiansborg Slot is home to Folketinget (the Danish parliament), the Prime Minister's office and the Supreme Court. Visitor highlights include the…

Nationalmuseet

For a crash course in Danish history and culture, spend an afternoon at Denmark's National Museum. It has first claim on virtually every antiquity…

Frederiksberg Have

Vesterbro & Frederiksberg

This is Copenhagen’s most romantic park, with lakes, woodlands and lovely picnic lawns. Guarding the main entrance is 19th-century royal Frederik VI, who…

Top picks from our travel experts

9 of the best things to do in copenhagen.

Oysters & Grill

Nørrebro & Østerbro

Finger-licking surf and turf is what you get at this rocking, unpretentious neighbourhood favourite, complete with kitsch vinyl tablecloths and a fun,…

Denmark's behemothic Opera House sits on Copenhagen Harbour, directly across from the Amalienborg Slot. Completed in 2005 and embellished with limestone,…

Royal Copenhagen

This is the main showroom for the historic Royal Copenhagen porcelain, one of the city's best-loved souvenir choices. Its 'blue fluted' pattern is famous…

Little Mermaid

New York has its Lady Liberty and Sydney its (Danish-designed) Opera House. When the world thinks of Copenhagen, the chances are they're thinking of the…

Georg Jensen

This is the world-famous silversmith's flagship store, selling everything from rings, brooches and watches, to attention-commanding vases and tableware…

Amalienborg Slot

Home of the current queen, Margrethe II, Amalienborg Slot consists of four austere 18th-century palaces around a large cobbled square. The changing of the…

Aamanns 1921

Led by chef Adam Aamann who is known for his creative take on smørrebrød, Aamanns 1921 modernises the traditional open-faced sandwich and other Danish…

Rolf Hay’s fabulous interior-design store sells its own coveted line of furniture, textiles and design objects, as well as those of other fresh,…

Illums Bolighus

Design fans hyperventilate over this sprawling department store, its four floors packed with all things Nordic and beautiful. You'll find everything from…

Restaurant Kronborg

Behind its hulking, centuries-old walls, cosy, wood-beamed Kronborg serves up classic Danish fare. Head here for the impressive choice of lunchtime…

Dansk Arkitektur Center

This gallery hosts changing exhibitions on Danish and international architecture and features an excellent book- and design-shop. On weekends from late…

Hey Captain

Hey Captain brings something new to Copenhagen tourist favourite canal tours. Comfortable boats seat 12 guests for a more personal experience. The aim is…

Owned by Danish Design School graduates Ditte Reckweg and Jelena Schou Nordentoft, Stilleben stocks a bewitching range of contemporary ceramic, glassware,…

Kongens Have

The oldest park in Copenhagen was laid out in the early 17th century by Christian IV, who used it as his vegetable patch. These days it has a little more…

Sankt Peders Bageri

Sankt Peders Bageri is the oldest bakery in the city, dating back to 1652. Famed for its cinnamon rolls, its mouthwatering selection also includes…

Torvehallerne KBH

Food market Torvehallerne KBH is an essential stop on the Copenhagen foodie trail. A delicious ode to the fresh, the tasty and the artisanal, the market's…

Marmorkirken

Consecrated in 1894, the neo-baroque Marble Church (officially Frederikskirken) is one of Copenhagen's most imposing architectural assets. Its grandiose…

Gefion Fountain

At the southeastern edge of Kastellet is Anders Bundgaard's monumental Gefion Fountain, depicting the Norse goddess Gefion steering some rather stoic oxen…

Det Kongelige Bibliotek

Scandinavia's largest library consists of two very distinct parts: the original 19th-century red-brick building and the head-turning 'Black Diamond'…

The star-shaped fortress of Kastellet was originally commissioned by Frederik III in 1662. Today, it is one of the most historically evocative sites in…

Designmuseum Danmark

The 18th-century Frederiks Hospital is now the outstanding Denmark Design Museum. A must for fans of the applied arts and industrial design, its fairly…

Mikkeller & Friends

Looking suitably cool with its turquoise floors and pale ribbed wood, Mikkeller & Friends is a joint venture of the Mikkeller and To Øl breweries. Beer…

La Banchina

This tiny spot serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, cooked beautifully and served with little fanfare. The real magic is the setting, a small harbour cove…

Assistens Kirkegård

You'll find some of Denmark's most celebrated citizens at this famous cemetery, including philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, physicist Niels Bohr, author Hans…

Coffee Collective

Save your caffeine fix for Copenhagen's most respected micro-roastery. The beans here are sourced ethically and directly from farmers. These guys usually…

The 20 best free things to do in Copenhagen

Christiansborg Slot Tower

The palace tower opened to the public for the first time in 2014. It’s the city’s tallest tower, delivering a sweeping view over the Danish capital. The…

Gråbrødretorv

Found just off bustling Strøget pedestrian shopping street, this colourful square is named for the friary that stood here back in the 13th century. It was…

Copenhagen's most prolific microroastery, Coffee Collective has helped revolutionise the city's coffee culture. Head in for rich, complex cups of…

Christiansborg Slotskirke

Tragedy struck CF Hansen’s austere, 19th-century neoclassical church on the day of the 1992 Copenhagen Carnival. A stray firework hit the scaffolding that…

Botanisk Have

Restorative and romantic, Copenhagen's Botanic Garden lays claim to around 13,000 species of plant life – the largest collection in Denmark. You can amble…

Vor Frue Kirke

Founded in 1191 and rebuilt three times after devastating fires, Copenhagen's neoclassical cathedral dates from 1829. Designed by CF Hansen, its lofty,…

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Fin de siècle architecture meets with an eclectic mix of art at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. The collection is divided into two parts: Northern Europe's…

Jens Olsen's World Clock

The most famous resident at Copenhagen's Rådhus (City Hall) is the curious Jens Olsen's World Clock, designed by astromechanic Jens Olsen (1872–1945) and…

Islands Brygge Havnebadet

Copenhagen's coolest outdoor pool complex comprises three pools and sits right in the central city's main canal. Water quality is rigorously monitored,…

Nikolaj Kunsthal

Built in the 13th century, the church of Sankt Nikolaj is now home to the Copenhagen Contemporary Art Centre, which hosts around half-a-dozen exhibitions…

This harbourside street-food market is a veritable village of converted shipping containers, peddling sustainable bites from across the globe. Multiculti…

Forget Thailand: to escape the Nordic cold, simply slip inside the Botanic Garden's Palm House. A large, elegant glasshouse dating from the 19th century,…

Vor Frelsers Kirke

It's hard to miss this 17th-century church and its 95m-high spiral tower. For a soul-stirring city view, make the head-spinning 400-step ascent to the top…

Rådhuspladsen

The square outside Copenhagen's Rådhus (City Hall) unites the busy thoroughfare of Vestrobrogade and the bustling Strøget pedestrian street. While the…

Completed in 1905, Copenhagen's national Romantic-style city hall is the work of architect Martin Nyrop. Inside is the curious Jens Olsen's World Clock,…

De Kongelige Stalde

Completed in 1740, the two curved, symmetrical wings behind Christiansborg belonged to the original baroque palace, destroyed by fire in 1794. The wings…

Amager Strandpark

A sand-sational artificial lagoon southeast of the city centre, with acres of beach and, during summer, a festive vibe most days, with cafes and bars…

Thorvaldsens Museum

What looks like a colourful Greco-Roman mausoleum is in fact a museum dedicated to the works of illustrious Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen (1770–1844)…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Get a local's perspective on all the big things you need to know before visiting Copenhagen.

Best Neighborhoods

Copenhagen has become one of Europe's most popular destinations and its lively neighborhoods are one of the reasons why. Here's a guide to the best.

Learn about Denmark's history of kings and Vikings, explore its lovely landscapes, and discover a world apart from its cosmopolitan capital.

Money and Costs

It’s possible to savor the restaurant, bars, neighborhoods and attractions of the expensive Danish capital on a budget. Here’s how.

Transportation

Don't worry about your carbon footprint when getting around Copenhagen. Choose from a variety of sustainable public transport options or go on foot.

Free Things to Do

The Danish capital can eat through your travel budget. Try these top free things to do in Copenhagen.

Discover the essence of Copenhagen’s coolness at these five independent shops.

Latest stories from Copenhagen

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Copenhagen and beyond

The 10 best countries for solo travel – and top tips for travelling alone

W hile travelling with friends, family or a partner can be a great way to spend quality time with loved ones, embracing alone time can open the door to a wealth of new cultures and experiences .

Solo holidays can range from short-haul city breaks to bucket-list backpacking adventures and active excursions closer to home.

But where to start? Holidays for a party of one are more popular than ever in 2024, though inconsistent pricing and solo supplements can be discouraging for those new to lone adventuring.

And, while solo travellers may end up  paying more  for holidays thanks to single occupancy rates, the freedom of choice without the burden of compromise is thrown in for free.

From dining with the locals in Vietnam to guided tours of the Golden Circle in Iceland , there are myriad destinations well-suited to travellers looking to go it alone.

Here are some top countries for solo travel, plus tips to plan and execute a successful trip of self-discovery.

Read more on solo travel :

• The solo holiday destinations in the UK for a singles getaway
• The best US cities for solo female travellers you might not have considered
• Why Greek island-hopping is a gentle way to ease back into adventures

Best for: Singles city breaks

What better way to kick start a solo adventure than with a long weekend in a city that embraces the essence of  hygge  (a feeling of comfort and contentment)? Alfresco summers meet cosy winters in Denmark and, while Scandinavian prices can be eye-wateringly expensive, it’s not impossible to pull off a city break on a budget.

Eastern capital Copenhagen is consistent in its happy atmosphere, low crime rate and world-renowned cuisine. From budget hot dog stands laden with pickled condiments to the tasting menu at three Michelin-starred restaurant Geranium, gourmet food joints pepper the candle-lit streets. Experience “faellesspisning” or communal eating – affordable bites in the charming company of strangers – if you’re a solo traveller looking to socialise.

Make your money go even further by joining in with laid-back Scandi culture and renting a bike, staying in buzzing hostels such as the central Danhostel and purchasing a Copenhagen Card to get money off attractions, including a boat tour of the city’s canals.

Free activities such as walking along waterfront neighbourhood Nyhavn and catching a summer sunset from the opera house are also facilitated by an efficient ‘S-tog’ train network and buses.

And there’s more to Denmark than its effortlessly stylish capital. Visit Odense for a Hans Christian Anderson literary experience fans of The Little Mermaid will love, and take in the multitude of architecture in the old Viking fishing village-turned-second city, Aarhus, for an insight into to Danish history.

Best for: Solo island hopping

Thailand is a welcoming haven for single party animals or beach bums travelling the well-trodden backpacking trail through  southeast Asia .

A solo slice of Thai comes with an affordable price tag once you’re there. Trains, buses, long-tail boats and tuk-tuks transport travellers to the street food of lively night markets and cooking schools well versed in pad Thai and gaeng daeng for just a few pounds, while there are plentiful cheap and cheerful hostels to stay in, helping solo travellers meet new people and save in accommodation costs.

Culture-stacked cities like  Bangkok  meet jungle-clad interiors in a fusion of thrilling nightlife, rejuvenating yoga ashrams and authentic Buddhist temples.

Island hopping across isolated archipelagos is also often a staple of a tourist’s Thailand itinerary. With 1,430  islands  to choose from, including  Phuket  and the Phi Phi on the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, try Koh Samui for safe, sociable hostels including  The Rock Samui  and catch the ferry to Koh Phangan to experience festival-style nights at a bucket-list full moon party.

Best for: Personal safety

Find peace of mind travelling alone in clean, safe cities as you experience first-hand the Japanese culture of kindness and respect. Crime and harassment are rare and the efficient train network even features women-only carriages .

Master of hi-tech and hub of creative fashion, Tokyo is the ideal place to start your first solo trip to Japan, but its glitzy tapestry of skyscrapers and all-night karaoke isn’t the only bit you should experience.

Venture to Kyoto via the revolutionary bullet trains to regroup in the ethereal landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji. In spring, the city is awash with pink as the cherry blossoms bloom and rural temple tours tempt visitors into serene Japanese gardens to experience customary tea ceremonies. Ski slopes in Hokkaidō are also great for snowsports enthuiasts.

While not the cheapest destination for holidaymakers on this list, travellers can save on expenses by picking up food from Japan’s extensive variety of vending machines, 100-yen stores and Japanese Rail passes . Capsule hotels like the Nine Hours chain and traditional ryokan rooms with hot springs offer classic Japanese zen in rural areas and the city at affordable prices.

What's more, eating alone is celebrated as the norm at casual restaurants familiar with seating tables for one, while language difficulties are usually met with polite patience.

Best for: Short-haul travel

Swerve language barriers and long stints in the air with a holiday to visit our  Irish  neighbours. The Emerald Isle has forged a reputation as a home from home for British travellers, whether they get there by hopping on a ferry or a flight.

Crumbling castles, rambling countryside and live music await; from  Dublin  to Cork and Limerick, cosmopolitan cities sit side by side with verdant landscapes blessed with an abundance of  walking  and cycling routes that are fun to explore as a lone ranger.

Dublin houses more cultural wonders than the famous Guinness Storehouse – nurse a  proper pint  in traditional old-stone Dublin pub away from tourist favourite, Temple Bar, and discover why the Irish capital is the Unesco city of literature.

Eslewhere, solo day trips can include the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the busy shops of Graton Street. The best way to get around is by car, and hiring your own is advisable for road trips to more remote areas such as  Galway  and the Aran Islands.

Best for: Social travellers

A favourite with backpackers,  Vietnam’s  well-established tourist route takes the hassle out of planning for solo travellers eager to buddy up along the way.

Hue’s imperial citadel, capital  Hanoi’s French colonial villas, wartime relics including the Cu Chi tunnels, blissful beaches on Phu Quoc Island and rainbow lanterns at Hoi An’s monthly full moon festival all make Vietnam a compelling destination.

Solo tourists can hop on the back of a motorbike with a local for a tour of the chaotic  Ho Chi Minh City , or cruise to the limestone islands of Unesco-listed Ha Long Bay on targeted excursions for like-minded travellers.

In this wallet-friendly southeast Asian country, easy-to-navigate transport networks, overnight buses that take you down the otherworldly coast, and a sociable, hostel-heavy accommodation scene with bargain price tags add up to a destination that’s ideal for lone travellers keen to make friends.

Best for: Self-discovery

Canada , famed for its friendly people with a knack for warm hospitality, is the ideal place for a lone globetrotter to switch off and get back to nature.

Th world's second biggest country balances cosmopolitan cities with unspoilt, remote wilderness. You’ll be greeted with trendy bars in Toronto and the urban oasis of Stanley Park in waterfront Vancouver , while road trips across the North American giant take you through expansive landscapes, mountain peaks and dazzlingly blue lakes.

A treasure trove of outdoorsy activities can be enjoyed year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in Whistler to kayaking, ice hockey and hiking amid the enchanting glacial lakes and grizzly bears of Banff National Park and the vast Rocky Mountains.

Best for: Off-grid adventures

Iceland is guaranteed to squash any feelings of boredom with its extensive menu of outdoor activities, from snowmobiling to horse riding and hikes in the rugged volcanic landscape.

Aptly nicknamed the “Land of Ice and Fire”, Iceland is a playground for nature enthusiasts to go off-grid solo. Black sand beaches, waterfalls, sapphire glaciers and the geysers of the Golden Circle ring road are all natural thrills in this largely safe and friendly country.

Think whale watching during the midnight sun, hunting the colourful waltz of the Northern Lights and the famous milky waters of the Blue Lagoon spa on a solo city break to the capital, Reykjavik .

Best for: Female solo travellers

In the heart of Europe, Slovenia’s small size and charming spirit make it a hit with female solo travellers.

A fairly priced public transport network facilitates travel between cities and English is widely spoken, enabling easier exploration of Slovenia’s beautiful scenery.

Leafy Ljubljana , the capital, is a tangle of terracotta riverside cafes, markets and family-owned restaurants offering sheep cheeses, struklji rolls and orange wines.

But Slovenia’s crowning jewel is its famous lakes fringed with traditional, pretty villages. Lake Bled, for example, is home to medieval castles, wild swimming opportunities and traditional plenta boat rides.

New Zealand

Best for: hiking holidays.

There’s nowhere like  New Zealand  for a hiking holiday off the beaten path, and it’s ideal for solo adrenaline seekers, thanks to its peaceful and safe reputation.

The English-speaking Pacific paradise offers working holiday opportunities for those looking to secure a travel visa, plus bucket-list activities such as helicopter rides, whale watching and bungee jumping fill a prolonged stopover.

From the home of  hobbits in Rotorua to cruising to the waterfalls of Milford Sounds by boat and exploring the Maori culture of vibrant Christchurch, New Zealand is well worth the ultra-long journey.

In between days spent amid its film-worthy natural landscapes, head to Auckland to climb Mount Eden and the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, or visit the fine wine regions of Waiheke Island, known for their Sauvignon Blancs.

Best for: Culture and cuisine

An unspoiled country closed to tourists until 1974,  Bhutan  is a surprisingly popular destination for a solo holiday.

With a confection of cultural wonders in lush green valleys, fortresses and traditional villages, the Himalayan country appeals to single travellers lusting to step back in time.

Find Bhutanese-style red-roofed houses in the quiet capital of Thimphu, yak herding in Laya and the cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest Monastery at home in harmonious Paro – not forgetting delicious momo dumplings.

The landlocked nation is ideal for trekking after the 403km long Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022; the mountain kingdom can be explored on private tours with a local guide.

Bhutan’s Buddhist culture has a focus on sustainability that permeates all levels of life, particularly in strict tourism regulations. Factor the country’s steep  tourism tax , designed to deter budget travellers and preserve Bhutan’s heritage, into your trip costs –now $800 (£627) for a traveller staying eight days.

Top 10 tips for solo travellers

• Do your research: take your time to plan ahead before leaving for a solo trip
• Be safety conscious: don’t share your specific location online while you’re still there, be aware of your surroundings and stay connected with people at home about your travel plans
• Be flexible: spontaneous plans are sometimes the best kind and things going “wrong” often lead to the most memorable experiences
• Try something new: whether local cuisines or a new activity, push yourself out of your comfort zone to get the most out of travelling solo
• Stay in a hostel: this can be the best way to meet new and likeminded people for social butterflies
• Learn to love your own company: there’s a freedom to alone time
• Practice local phrases: a “please” and “thank you” in the local language go a long way
• Utilise public transport: don’t blow your budget on Ubers and taxis if you don’t have to
• Bring back-up: printed documents, portable chargers, emergency cash and travel insurance are solo travel essentials
• Don’t overpack: don’t fall at the first hurdle by bringing your entire wardrobe

Read more of our best Copenhagen hotel reviews

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Queen Margrethe's Life in Photos

The Danish queen reigned for 52 years, before abdicating in favor of her son.

In 1972, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark succeeded her father, King Frederick IX, becoming the first female Danish monarch in centuries. (The last was Margrethe I, who ruled the Scandinavian kingdoms from 1375 to 1412.) She only succeeded her father because of a relatively recent constitutional amendment that allowed women to inherit the throne.

Margrethe was born at Frederik VIII's Palace on April 16, 1940—just one week after Nazi Germany invaded Denmark. Her parents, King Frederick IX and Queen Ingrid, were both members of royal families: Frederick was the eldest son of Denmark's King Christian X and Queen Alexandrine (who were also monarchs of Iceland until 1944), and Ingrid was the only daughter of King Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden and his first wife, Princess Margaret.

As Queen Margrethe celebrates her 84th birthday, take a look back through her royal life, in photos.

King Christian X holding Princess Margrethe in an undated photo from 1940.

A baby Princess Margrethe with her parents—then the Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Ingrid. Margrethe's full name is Margrethe Alexandrine Þórhildur Ingrid, named for her maternal grandmother Crown Princess Margaret of Sweden, paternal grandmother Queen Alexandrine, her mother Ingrid, and Þórhildur is a nod towards King Christian being the King of Iceland.

Read more: 40+ photos of the Danish Royal Family through the years.

1941 - 1942

In this portrait of Princess Margrethe, she holds a teddy bear who wears shoes.

During World War II, Nazi Germany occupied Denmark. In 1945, following the liberation of Copenhagen, Prince Gustaf Adolf of Sweden (left) reunited with his daughter, Princess Ingrid, and met his granddaughters, Margrethe and Benedikte.

In 2020, Queen Margrethe shared her memories of liberation: "I woke up when I heard people in the streets, not outside my window, but not far from it... I was not chased back to bed. They gave me a big hug."

"Then my father came and said, 'it is peace, the war is over,'" she recounts. "I did not really understand what that meant, but I understood that all the people were very happy. I have always remembered that evening in detail. That evening must be one of my earliest memories that I can remember so well."

The Danish royals pose with newborn Princess Anne-Marie (in Ingrid's arms).

During a Christmas celebration, Princess Margrethe (right) wears a wreath of candles—a Swedish tradition—and her younger sister Princess Benedikte (left) is dressed as an angel.

The three Danish princesses wore matching dresses in a portrait taken in Copenhagen. From left to right: Anne-Marie, age 4, Margrethe, age 10, and Benedikte, age 6.

In 1952, the Danish royals traveled to England. Queen Ingrid smiles at the camera, with her arms resting on Benedikte's shoulders. Margrethe, far right, is aged 12.

Margrethe's nickname is Daisy, a common diminutive of the English version of her name, Margaret.

The original caption for this photo reads "Denmark's rugged King Frederik has some fun with his three daughters while spending some leisure time at the family's summer residence in Fredensborg." This photo was taken shortly after a new constitution declared Princess Margrethe heir to the Danish throne.

Princess Margrethe, nearly 14, on a ski vacation in Norway.

Princess Margrethe accompanied her mother Queen Ingrid on a royal engagement.

In 1955, Princess Margrethe was confirmed to the Church of Fredensborg's Palace. In this portrait, she poses between her parents.

This photograph—of Margrethe in a glamorous off-the-shoulder gown—marked the princesses's 18th birthday, and her coming of age according to Danish Royal Law.

Upon turning 18, Margrethe took a seat in King Frederik's cabinet.

She traveled with her parents on a royal visit to Greenland in 1960.

The same year, she undertook a tour of America with two other princesses: Princess Astrid of Norway and Princess Margaretha of Sweden. (Margrethe is far right.) Here, the three princesses stop at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

In 1960, Princess Margrethe went to London to study prehistoric archeology at Cambridge. She has a long-lasting passion for archeology, and has participated in excavations over the years.

Margrethe and her sisters in traditional Danish clothing. A year later, her youngest sister, Princess Anne-Marie would marry King Constantine of Greece and become queen consort of Greece.

After leaving Cambridge, the princess attended Aarhus University from 1961 to 1962. and the Sorbonne in 1963. In 1965, she studied at the London School of Economics. She's pictured here in London, before starting at LSE.

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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