Denmark Destination Guide
Denmark is a highlight of our excursions at Discover Scandinavia Tours, from the capital of Copenhagen to the country’s oldest town. We’ve put together this guide to all you need to know about visiting Denmark. Check out our Denmark Private Tours for more details on our itineraries, or feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions.
Why Visit Denmark?
While Denmark is the smallest of the Scandinavian countries, it’s bursting with things to do and places to see. Whether you’re a history buff in search of royal palaces, a photographer looking for some picturesque city scenes, or part of a young family seeking loads of fun, Denmark has something for you.
Copenhagen is known both for its thrilling amusement park, Tivoli Gardens, as well as its 17th-century waterfront. In Odense, you can find the birthplace of Hans Christen Anderson, while in Ribe, you can dive deep into the nation’s Viking past.
There are plenty of reasons why you should visit Denmark, no matter your tastes. Speaking of, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a culinary journey like no other, tasting Danish pastries, hot dogs, beers and more! Copenhagen is also home to the world-renowned restaurant Noma, which has been a pioneer in New Nordic Cuisine.
What Is It Like Visiting Denmark For The First Time?
There is a high standard of living in Denmark, with an excellent public transport system, as well as an embrace of hygge, which focuses on contentment and wellbeing. Denmark is also a leading example of a sustainable city, with a strong emphasis on green living.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Denmark?
The best time to visit Denmark is in the summer months between June and August, when temperatures average between 60 and 70°F. You’ll also experience long daylight hours, with the sun rising at 4 am and only setting again around 10 pm. These sunny days make it the ideal time to explore Denmark’s beaches and lush interior.
In the winter months between December and March, temperatures average between 30 and 40°F, but Denmark turns into a winter wonderland with the falling snow. It’s also the perfect excuse to cozy up and indulge in the art of hygge.
If you want to avoid the peak tourist crowds of summer, the shoulder months between April and May and September and October provide an optimal period between the chilly winters and busy summers.
Where Should I Go When Visiting Copenhagen?
The city of Copenhagen is replete with attractions, ranging from the historic to the thrilling. Here are our top picks for where to go when visiting Copenhagen:
Tivoli Gardens
Possibly Copenhagen’s most popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike, Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park that has excited guests since it opened in the 1840s. It’s filled with rollercoaster rides, an aquarium, an open-air stage, theaters, and gardens, making this an entertaining place for anyone!
Nyhavn
When you think of Copenhagen, Nyhavn is likely the first thing that comes to mind. This picture-perfect waterfront dates back to the 17th century and has become synonymous with the city. The multi-colored houses overlooking boats on the water create a scene straight out of a postcard. Grab a bite to eat, cycle along the water’s edge, or take a boat tour on the canal for an idyllic day out.
The Round Tower
The Round Tower is one of Copenhagen’s most unique attractions. Originally built in the 17th century to include an observatory, library, and church, today you can admire city views from the platform surrounding the observatory. To reach the top, you have to walk the winding spiral ramp, which was designed to allow access to a horse and carriage transporting books and equipment. The observatory remains the oldest functioning one in Europe, while the library has been transformed into an exhibition space.
Rosenborg Castle
A highlight of any visit to Copenhagen is touring the opulent Rosenborg Castle, which today houses the Danish crown jewels. Built 400 years ago as a summer palace for Christian IV, it soon became his favorite residence and is where he died. Take a walk through the intricately designed rooms, including one made from marble, and descend into the basement to admire the royal crowns and jewels.
The Little Mermaid
On Langelinie Pier, you can find the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Perched on a rock, this statue was inspired by the story of the Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s famous creator of fairy tales. The statue has been a tourist attraction since 1913, beckoning those with a taste for romance and nostalgia.
For more ideas on what you can see in Copenhagen, check out our blog on the Most Unique Things to Do in Copenhagen.
What Are The Best Small Cities & Towns To Visit In Denmark?
Beyond Copenhagen, Denmark has plenty of beautiful smaller cities and towns to visit. Here are some of our favorites, which you can arrange to visit on one of our Custom Tours:
Odense
The city of Odense is known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, and a visit to H.C. Andersen’s House will bring his story and legacy to life. You can explore his childhood home as well as immersive exhibitions, perfect for children and the young at heart. Another major attraction in the city is the Odense Zoo, home to over 100 species, and the Funen Village, which recreates how people lived in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Ribe
Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark, dating back to the 8th century. The historic Ribe Cathedral has towered over the streets since the 1100s and is the oldest cathedral in Denmark. One of the most popular attractions in the town is the Ribe VikingeCenter. Here you can explore a reconstructed Viking village and discover what life was like centuries ago. Not to be missed is the Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to one of the richest ecosystems in Denmark.
Esbjerg
Esbjerg is where the city and the sea converge. This town is most well-known for its incredible Men by the Sea monument, consisting of four towering seated figures which represent the meeting of humankind and nature. Just behind the monument is the Fiskeri- og Søfartsmuseet, a museum which focuses on the ocean, with fascinating exhibits, a sealarium, and an interactive aquarium.
Roskilde
Just a 30-minute train ride out of Copenhagen, the town of Roskilde is steeped in history. The Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 12th and 13th centuries, has served as the mausoleum for Danish royalty since the 15th century. Another major attraction in town is the Viking Ship Museum, which preserves 1000-year-old Viking ships and numerous other artifacts.
Jelling
The town of Jelling is home to the famous Jelling rune stones, erected by King Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century in honor of his mother and father. On the stones, he declared Denmark as a Christian country. It also marks the first use of the name “Denmark”, making these stones of incredible historical importance. The surrounding mounds and church together with the stones are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one worth seeing on your journey through Denmark.
Billund
Billund offers an experience unlike any other – this town is the birthplace of Lego and is filled with Lego-themed attractions. From the Legoland Billund Resort, a theme park with thrilling rides and a miniland, to the Lego House, with its interactive museum and play areas, Billund is the place to be for fans of the toy brick. You can even stay at the Legoland Holiday Village in cabins or on campsites, and access a playground and mini-zoo.
Can You See the Northern Lights in Denmark?
While it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Denmark, it’s relatively rare on the main islands. However, you can admire the natural phenomenon on the Faroe Islands, which are Danish territory. These islands, located midway between Norway and Iceland, offer optimal viewing opportunities in the winter months between December and March. You can fly from Denmark to the Faroe Islands or even take a ferry.
Alternatively, you can look at our Iceland Private Winter Tour or our Norway Winter Tour, where we will take you to the best locations for seeing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia!
Top 5 Travel Tips for Denmark
- Pack for all weather: It’s best to layer up in Denmark, no matter the season. In winter, bring sufficiently warm clothing for a frosty climate and snow, but have lighter items for the indoors which are typically heated. In the shoulder seasons and even in summer, you must always be prepared for a spot of rain, so a rain jacket is a must. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot walking, or even cycling, on your travels.
- Try out cycling: Speaking of cycling, you can’t go to Denmark without joining the locals for a ride. Cycling is as fundamental a part of Danish culture as smørrebrød, with cycle routes all over the cities and countryside. If you’re worried about cycling on roads, there’s nothing to fear, as the bicycle paths are extremely well-designed with safety in mind. It’s also easy to find bicycle rentals across the country, with bike-sharing companies situated in most cities.
- Learn the art of hygge: The concept of hygge has gained international traction over the years, but there’s no better place to embrace it than where it originated. The term hygge first emerged in writing in the 18th century and it’s at the foundation of the Danish lifestyle. Hygge emphasizes cosiness and contentment, particularly in winter, with a focus on spending time with loved ones and appreciating the small things. Traveling in Denmark is an opportunity to slow down, connect with others, and practise gratitude.
- Plan your route: There are myriad towns and cities across the country to be explored, all of which can be easily accessed by train, bus, or car. Depending on what you wish to experience, whether it’s Denmark’s numerous castles or quirky destinations, planning your itinerary well in advance will allow you to see as much of the country as possible.
- Explore the natural abundance: While Denmark’s cities, with their blend of historic and modern allure, are often the main attractions, there is plenty of natural abundance to be experienced. Discover chalk cliffs along the sea at Møns Klint, the rugged coast of Thy National Park, or the thousands of deer roaming Jægersborg Dyrehave.
Join our Luxury Denmark Tours
Are you ready to discover Denmark? We hope our guide has given you plenty of ideas and tips on how to see this glorious country. If you want to save yourself the hassle of planning a trip yourself, why not have a look at our Luxury Denmark Tour that will show you the country in over a week?
To explore more of Scandinavia, you can also check out our Scandinavia Tour Packages that journey across multiple countries in a matter of days. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.