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These are Denmark's best places to go!

Where are denmark's best places to go.

We've got a map! Click on an area of Denmark that looks interesting to you and we'll take you to the highlights from that region. Or you can scroll on to pick and choose from some of our favourite destinations below.

Picking a place to go on holiday is hard

Apparently human beings get a bit stressed out if they’re presented with too many choices. 12 options is the sweet spot. So while we have a great many wonder-filled places to go, to help ease you along to a happy and stress-free choice, here are just 12 suggestions from us. You’re welcome!

Pretty little places of calm and tranquility

Unexpected natural highlights

We thought it would be a good idea to start with somewhere you've actually heard of. And what you've probably heard about Copenhagen is that it is an incredible place to be in. It is. No, really, just read on to see why this gem is a must-visit.

How can a capital city be this... cool?

A taste of the laid-back island life.

You might not know this about Denmark, but it is an island destination. Our capital, Copenhagen , is on an island. So is the home of Hans Christian Andersen . In fact, we have 444 islands and quite a lot of them have no-one on at all. Now, doesn’t that sound relaxing?

The Big One: Fyn

The Little One: Bornholm

The Green One: Samsø

Our island hopping capital: Fyn!

Aarhus and around.

Forget all those other European cities you’ve heard about. There are way too many people there. Aarhus has fewer crowds, but just as many big-hitting sights and attractions. Plus beaches, forests, festivals… It’s a wonder more people haven’t heard of it. (Hey, we’re doing our best.)

Why you should get to know Aarhus as soon as you can

The national parks, beaches and attractions near Aarhus

The wild and wonder-filled north of denmark.

This sand-swept region of wide open nature is like a treasure trove of unusual wonders. Buried churches? Strange mini-deserts? Cold Hawaii? That's right, just better because it's quite cold and that's good for you. You'll find it all here!

This place will (quite literally) blow you away...

Three popular places you shouldn't miss.

What kind of destination are you looking for? If it's a pretty seaside with famous castles near a capital, then explore Zealand. For more dramatic nature and unusual historical sights, head to Jutland's West Coast. If it's the footsteps of famous Danes you're hoping to follow, Odense is for you!

Zealand and the Danish Riviera

The West Coast & beyond

The Home of Hans Christian Andersen

Share your wonders :.

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7 Day DENMARK Itinerary

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 2024

This Denmark itinerary covers the best places to visit in Denmark in just a week, Perfect for those planning a trip to Denmark.

Denmark is known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular place for visitors to explore. From the iconic little Mermaid Statue in Copenhagen to the fairy-tale-like castles found all over the country, there is plenty to sweep you away whilst in the country.

Marjut from The Smooth Escape  shares a Denmark Itinerary – perfect for a week in Copenhagen and beyond.

Why Denmark?

Denmark, the smallest of the Scandinavian countries and one of the happiest nations in the world will charm you with its medieval towns, beautiful castles, and scenic countryside.

Based on my experience with living in Denmark for almost a decade, I’ve put together a 7-day Denmark itinerary that includes both must-see attractions as well as lesser-known treasures in this amazing country. 

One week is just enough to explore the main sights of Denmark’s vibrant capital city Copenhagen and take a few day trips to smaller towns such as Helsingør and Dragør which are packed with culture and history; this is how we recommend you spend time in Copenhagen .

To ensure that you’ll have enough time to thoroughly enjoy your trip without having to rush from one place to another, this Denmark itinerary is limited to the eastern part of Denmark (Zealand) only, which in my opinion is the most enchanting region in the whole country.

Without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the most beautiful places to explore during a weeklong stay in Denmark!

7 days Denmark Itinerary

Denmark itinerary – Day 1: Copenhagen 

Start your Denmark itinerary by visiting some of Copenhagen’s most iconic sights and landmarks; we recommend spending at least 3 days in Copenhagen. This is one of the most romantic destinations in Europe , making it the perfect place for couples.

Begin your Denmark itinerary by heading to the gloriously photogenic Nyhavn which is a port lined with colorful quaint houses and old sailing boats.

Whether you choose to just snap photos of the buildings, grab a bite in one of the many quayside restaurants, or stroll along the port, Nyhavn is an absolute must when you’re in Copenhagen.

Next, visit Amalienborg Palace, the residence of the Danish royal family. The palace consists of four identical buildings with a large courtyard in the middle. To experience the changing of The Royal Guard, make sure to be at the central courtyard at noon.

If you’d like to see the rococo-style interior of the palace, visit the Amalienborg Museum. If you are visiting on a budget, make sure to get the Copenhagen City Pass to save money or get an attraction and transport card .

After that, head to Frederik’s Church, also known as the Marble Church sitting right next to Amalienborg Palace.

With its massive green dome, this beautiful church stands out from the Copenhagen skyline and can be spotted in many parts of the city. As it’s free to enter the church, I recommend taking a quick look to admire its interior.

From there, walk to the Gefion Fountain, a large and impressive monument built in 1908. Topped by a statue of the Norse goddess Gefion, the fountain depicts a mythical story about the creation of the island of Zealand on which Copenhagen lies.

Just a short stroll from the fountain sits The Little Mermaid – a bronze statue created based on the world-famous fairy tale by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.

Once you see the iconic statue, you might find it a tad underwhelming since it’s smaller than what most tourists expect. Nevertheless, you should pay a visit to The Little Mermaid as it’s one of Copenhagen’s most famous attractions and is often seen as the symbol of the country.

Plus, the waterfront promenade leading to the statue is a lovely place to walk and offers some great views over the canal.

Head to the Copenhagen Christmas markets during the Winter and check out Copenhagen’s hidden gems and unusual things to do once you have seen all the sights.

Day 2: Copenhagen

Kick off the second day with a walk in Copenhagen’s oldest park, the King’s Garden . The park contains vast lawns, flower beds, and a rose garden, making it an attractive place to visit during the spring or summer months. This makes for a peaceful, calmer beginning to your Denmark itinerary.

King’s Garden is also home to Rosenborg Castle where you can see the crown jewels of Danish royalty.

Next, head to Torvehallerne, which is a buzzing food market consisting of two modern glass halls with countless stands serving high-quality fresh produce, pastries, chocolates, liquor, fish, nuts, cheeses, and lots of other delicacies.

Besides the market stands, there are also many restaurants and cafeterias serving everything from tapas to porridge, from sushi to pizza, and the typical Danish open sandwiches called smørrebrød . If you’re a foodie, this place is your paradise.

Once you’ve eaten your way through Torvehallerne, take a walk on the bustling pedestrian streets in the heart of Copenhagen.

The longest and most well-known of them is Strøget but you should also check out Købmagergade and Fiolstræde. These streets are lined with an abundance of cafeterias, bars, and shops selling both international and local brands.

Make sure to stop at Amagertorv Square which is an excellent place to people-watch and enjoy the performances of street musicians.

Copenhagen is easy to get around and you can see all the sights on a walking tour .

Finish your day with a trip to the world’s second-oldest amusement park and one of the most fascinating attractions in Copenhagen – the Tivoli Gardens . Even if riding roller coasters is not your cup of tea, you should still experience this magical place as it has so much more to offer.

Full of stunning architecture, Tivoli Gardens becomes especially impressive at night when the buildings and rides are illuminated with thousands of colorful lights. This is a must-do during your Denmark itinerary.

Its idyllic lake, romantic pathways, and enchanting decorations create a surreal fairytale ambiance, which you just shouldn’t miss!

The park is also home to quaint souvenir shops, concert venues, and a variety of restaurants with options ranging from fine dining to budget-friendly street food.

Day 3: Copenhagen

On Day 3 of your Denmark itinerary, go to Ved Stranden (a waterfront street in the heart of the city) to join a guided canal tour and experience Copenhagen from a completely different angle.

Sit back and relax as you cruise past some of the most famous buildings in the city while your tour guide tells you all about the history of these spots. As the boats are partially covered by a glass roof, you can still enjoy the tour even if it rains.

Next, head to the Christianshavn neighborhood to visit the Church of Our Saviour. The beautifully twisted spire of this church can be spotted from far away and the best part is that you can go all the way up to the tip of the spire!

There are 400 steps to climb but once you make your way to the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible 360-degree views of Copenhagen. As the spire might be closed in case of bad weather, call the church ahead of your visit.

After that, wander the streets of the adjacent Freetown Christiania. Located on the site of an abandoned military base, Christiania is a self-governing hippie neighborhood with its laws, car-free streets, and quirky cafeterias. This is one of the more unique, offbeat places in Europe to visit.

Full of vibrant street art, eccentric architecture, and interesting characters, it’s a unique place that will make you want to reach for your camera. However, please note that photography is not allowed on the main street of Christiania known as Pusher Street.

Round off your day with a visit to Reffen, the largest street food market in the Nordics. With 41 food stalls serving cuisine from every corner of the world, you can be sure to find a meal to your liking.

Since sustainability is of high importance at Reffen, the stalls sort their waste, use compostable plates and cutlery, make efforts to reduce food waste, and use organic ingredients as much as possible.

While Reffen’s main focus is on serving food, there’s also a handful of shops selling artisan products and vintage clothing. Bear in mind that Reffen is closed during the winter months.

Day 4: Louisiana Museum & Helsingør 

As you’ve now seen a fair bit of Copenhagen during your Denmark itinerary, I recommend taking a trip outside of the city and heading north.

Spend the first half of the day exploring the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art which is located in Humlebæk, 35 kilometers from Copenhagen, and can easily be reached by train.

As its name suggests, the museum houses a collection of contemporary art, including works by Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso.

Sitting right on the coast, Louisiana and its intriguing sculpture garden offer beautiful vistas of the Øresund strait and a must-visit place durign your Denmark itinerary.

On top of that, the museum has a really interesting layout as it’s built around an old villa with glass corridors connecting the different wings of the building.

Next on your Denmark itinerary, take the train further north to the coastal town of Helsingør , also known as Elsinore. The center of the town has a notable medieval character, and its small cobblestone streets and colorful houses make it a truly picturesque place to walk around.

Explore the bustling shopping streets, sit down with a beer in one of the cozy restaurants, or roam around the modern harbor area.

If you liked the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, try to locate the glistening steel sculpture called Han in the harbor of Helsingør. Han translates into ‘He’ and is the male version of the Little Mermaid.

The main attraction in Helsingør though is the Kronborg Castle , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

Wandering around outside of the castle is free of charge. However, if you choose to pay for the entrance, you’ll get to admire the palace’s Renaissance interior and exquisite tapestries, walk through the maze of underground dungeon passages, and enjoy the views from the castle tower.

After exploring Kronborg, I’d recommend spending the night in Helsingør during your Denmark itinerary. If your budget allows it, stay at the Marienlyst Beach Hotel which features an amazing spa with outdoor jacuzzis.

If you’d rather return to Copenhagen for the night, you can easily do that as it’s just a 40-minute train ride.

Day 5: Frederiksborg Castle

After checking out of the hotel, head to the train station and get ready to say goodbye to Helsingør. From there, catch a train to Hillerød, a small town 30 minutes away.

Note: If you choose to return to Copenhagen the night before, you can still get to Hillerød by taking an S-train (train network serving the metropolitan area of Copenhagen) from one of the stations in the center of the city.

Hillerød is home to Frederiksborg Castle , one of the most spectacular cultural treasures of Denmark and a must during your 7-day Denmark itinerary.

Located on three islands in Castle Lake, Frederiksborg is the largest Renaissance complex in Scandinavia and is often referred to as the “Versailles of Denmark”.

Built in the 17th century, the castle used to be a royal residence but was later converted into a Museum of Danish National History. Nowadays, the museum displays a large collection of portraits, furniture, and art encompassing 500 years of Denmark’s history.

You can enjoy Frederiksborg’s terraced garden with perfectly trimmed hedges, fountains, and water canals free of charge. Seeing the interior of the castle, however, requires purchasing a ticket, which I highly recommend that you do.

The extravagant Renaissance decorations and the grandeur of the halls will blow your mind! To properly explore the castle and its gardens, expect to spend a minimum of two hours.

When you’re done wandering around Frederiksborg, take the train back to Copenhagen and spend the night there.

Day 6: The island of Hven

Next on your Denmark itinerary, it’s time for another trip outside of Copenhagen! Head to Havnegade Street near the harbor of Nyhavn to catch a ferry to the tiny island of Hven. It would be a good idea to book tickets online to be sure that you get a spot on the ferry.

This idyllic island lies in the Øresund Strait between Denmark and Sweden, just one and a half hours from Copenhagen.

Being only 7 square kilometers in size, the island is the perfect destination for a day trip.

As soon as you reach the island, you’ll be charmed by the scenic countryside and the laid-back vibes of this place.

The best way to explore Hven is to rent a bike and cycle along its picturesque coastal trails. This is the most common method for visitors to get around the island and there’s a massive bike rental point near the harbor which is impossible to miss.

As you cycle through the island, you’ll come across adorable cottages, secluded beaches, rustic cafeterias, and artisanal shops. If you’re lucky, you might even see some alpacas pasturing on the fields on the eastern coast.

Also, make sure to stop at Kyrkbacken Harbor to buy some unbelievably delicious freshly smoked fish from the small smokehouses.

If you happen to visit Hven in May, you’re likely to see the island covered with a gorgeous yellow carpet of flowers since that’s when the canola fields are in bloom.

Besides the beautiful nature, one of the main attractions of Hven is the Tycho Brahe Museum named after a Danish astronomer who lived on the island and made many groundbreaking discoveries in science.

Another point of interest at Hven is the island’s very own whiskey distillery Spirit of Hven. Here you can get a tour to learn about the different stages of the production process and of course, sample their gins and whiskies.

After touring the island, return your bike and head back to the harbor. As there’s only one ferry sailing back to Copenhagen each day, make sure you don’t miss it!

Note: Hven is a destination that I only recommend visiting from May to the end of September due to the weather. If you’re traveling to Denmark outside of this period, you might want to consider heading to Roskilde or Odense instead. Both of these are charming medieval towns that can be visited in a day.

Day 7: Dragør

Start the last day of your holiday in Denmark with a trip to Dragør. Located 12 kilometers south of Copenhagen, Dragør can be reached either by bus from Copenhagen Central Station or if you’re feeling active, by bicycle.

This sleepy fishing village is the perfect place to escape the stress of the city and spend a few relaxed hours by the sea. Dragør’s tiny quaint cottages, charming gardens, and maze of cobblestone alleys will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different century.

Take a stroll along the picturesque marina and sit down in one of the waterfront restaurants. Or buy some Danish pastries, find a bench with a sea view, and simply enjoy the peace.

Dragør is also home to the Pilot Museum of Denmark and the Amager Museum, where you can learn about the special history of the village.

Next, if you still have any energy left and if the weather allows it, stop at Amager Beach on your way back from Dragør.

This beach is located on a narrow artificial island right next to the coast, where on one side you’ll find a lagoon great for kite surfing, and on the other side a long sandy beach with dunes.

On sunny summer days, this place is bustling with both locals and tourists sunbathing, having picnics, or doing sports. Despite the chilly waters, Amager Beach is a popular place for swimming, and you can even see winter bathers here during the colder months.

In case you’re visiting Denmark outside of the summer season, Amager Beach is still a nice place to stroll and enjoy the views of the sea, the Øresund Bridge, and the Middelgrunden wind farm.

Things to know before you go to Denmark

Best time to visit Denmark

June, July, and August offer the weakest weather in Denmark, with longer daylight hours meaning plenty of time to explore. However, August is a very busy month for tourism so visiting in May and the start of September will allow you to explore, stay warm and avoid the crowds. 

December brings the holiday magic to Copenhagen; with streets full of lights and cute Christmas markets in Copenhagen to explore. Just make sure to wrap up warm during this time as it can get chilly!

Typical prices in Denmark

Accommodation

Budget: Hostels can be found in Copenhagen for around $45 with private rooms starting at $65.

Midrange: Budget hotel prices range from $100 – $220 with rental apartments costing $200 a night. 

Luxury:  High-end, luxury hotels can be found from $180 a night. 

Transport: Prices vary depending on how many zones you are crossing on public transport but travel across zones is under $4 and 10 trip tickets are available for around $23. 

The average cost of food:

You can pick up affordable breakfast items from a cafe for $5 whilst hostels often have breakfast included for free. A street food or takeaway lunch will cost around $7 to $10 whilst sit-down dinners start at $15.

Read 100 ways to travel Europe and save money to explore Denmark and beyond!

Save money in Denmark

• Stay in a hostel – As with most places in the world, staying in a hostel is the cheapest accommodation option for you. Hotels in Copenhagen are pricey, so stay in hostels or budget hotel rooms and book in advance.
• Avoid Airbnb – Airbnb is available in Copenhagen but places are often overpriced compared to mid-range hotels.
• Off-Season – Visiting in October, November, January, and February can get you the best hotel and flight prices, as this is a quieter time in the city before the slide during Christmas. 
• Free things to do in Denmark – Head to Nyhavn, a canal district lined with colorful buildings and one of the most picturesque places in Copenhagen. The King’s Garden and Stroget Street are both free attractions to visit as is the Torvehallerne Market.
• Visit Christiania – This neighborhood is known as the green light district because you can legally buy cannabis here. However, there are also plenty of affordable cafes, cheap souvenir shops, and plenty of street art to explore. 
• Avoid drinking – Alcohol prices are high so avoid drinking too much when visiting Denmark on a budget.
• Cheap meals – If you are looking for a cheap meal out, try a local cafe or an Asian restaurant such as a Chinese and Thai restaurant. 

Denmark Itinerary F.A.Q

How many days do you need to see Denmark?

If you plan on sticking to just Copenhagen, then 3-4 days is enough. However, if you want to visit the nearby cities and destinations, you will need at least 7 days in Denmark. 

What is the best month to visit Denmark?

June, July, and August offer the longest days and the warmest temperatures, making them the best months to visit Denmark. 

How to spend 5 days in Denmark?

Day 1-2: Explore Copenhagen

Day 3: Helsingor

Day 4: Hven

Day 5: Dragor

What is the prettiest place in Denmark?

The white cliffs of Mon are the most famous and prettiest place to visit in Denmark. 

Is Denmark cheap for tourists?

Denmark is a cheaper destination than you might expect. You can save money by sticking to hostels, booking in advance, and planning which restaurants you can take advantage of; there are quite a few budget-friendly options in the country. Enjoy the free attractions and use the Copenhagen City Pass to save money on paid attractions. 

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James russey

Thursday 18th of April 2024

I am looking too plan a 7 day trip to Denmark beside plane travel sometime next year in late spring for two senior citizens

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Denmark Itinerary

Last Updated on February 13, 2024

by Emily Marty

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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:

The Essential Guide to Visiting Copenhagen in Winter

The Perfect 2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

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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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Denmark Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Denmark is one of my favorite countries in the world. With its beautiful landscape, charming medieval-like towns, clean air, bike-friendly cities, and locals who love to have a good time (Danes frequently stay out until dawn), I can never visit Denmark enough.

The Danes have a very ordered but happy lifestyle. To them, life is meant to be lived — not spent in an office. Most tourists only spend a few days in Copenhagen before the high costs of the country make them move on.

However, those people miss out on what the country has to offer. Besides, there are plenty of ways to save money here too!

So, don’t just go to Copenhagen! Be sure to explore the coastlines, tiny cities, and beautiful parks that fill this small but wonderful place. There is a lot to see and do and very few tourists take the time to travel beyond the capital. That means you’ll have much of the country to yourself as you explore.

This travel guide to Denmark can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this charming country!

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 Denmark

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in denmark.

1. Visit Copenhagen

One of my favorite cities in the world is Copenhagen , the capital of Denmark. It’s beautiful, the architecture is amazing, the nightlife is pretty wild, there’s a robust foodie scene, and the locals are friendly. Visit the stunning Rosenborg Castle, which dates back to 1606. Christiansborg Palace and Amalienborg Palace offer a deeper look into the lives and history of Demark’s royalty. Check out unique museums like Cisternerne, a venue and exhibition space located in an underground cistern, or the Experimentarium, an interactive science museum perfect for families. Be sure to cruise the colorful 17th-century Nyhavn harbor, and take a walk to the iconic Little Mermaid sculpture. Be sure to also visit Tivoli Gardens, a fun little amusement park in the heart of the city.

2. Explore Aarhus

Denmark’s second largest city is known for its art and culture. Enjoy plenty of fascinating museums like Den Gamle By, which features 75 historic buildings and offers a glimpse into daily life from the 18th to 20th century. AroS is one of the biggest art museums in Europe and has an incredible rooftop platform that offers the best panoramic views in the city. Beyond the many museums and galleries are unique amusement parks, such as Legoland and the Tivoli Friheden. This is a major college town so you can find a lot of cheap bars and good budget restaurants. Plus, less than an hour outside the city is Mols Bjerg National Park, where you can go hiking and also see burial mounds from the Bronze Age.

3. See Roskilde

Roskilde was Denmark’s capital from 960 to 1536. is an amazing city to view the country’s history, whether it be at the various churches, brick building-lined streets, or the Viking-influenced museums. At the Viking Ship Museum, you can see five 1,000-year-old original ships from the Viking age. The Roskilde Museum displays more of the city’s past and is set in two historic buildings that are part of the city’s Culture District. This area includes the 17th century Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other important historical buildings. RAGNAROCK museum is a great place to get a look into modern Danish culture through rock and pop music. In January, the city hosts Lysfest, a festival of lights, and in June, one of Europe’s largest music festivals, the Roskilde Festival, happens. If you want outdoor activities, Skjoldungernes National Park is also nearby with hiking trails, forests, and water activities.

4. Go hiking

Like their Scandinavian counterparts, Danes love the outdoors. Whether you want a short-day hike from the city or something more challenging, Denmark has it all. Some beautiful trails to hike are the Camønoen Trial (174km/108mi) and the Gendarmstien Trial (84km/52mi). The area around Mons Klint is a UNESCO biosphere reserve with opportunities for hiking along white chalk cliffs. Thy National Park, on the west coast, and has 49 marked hiking trails to enjoy. Hærvejen, The Ancient Road, is a hiking route along the edge of Jutland with more than a hundred miles worth of trails to explore. You can find more trails at alltrails.com .

5. Hit the beach

With 7,400 kilometers (4,600 miles) of coastline, Denmark has its fair share of beaches. While the weather can be tricky, a sunny day on the beach in Denmark is a wonderful way to unwind. Many of the beaches on the west coast are beautiful stretches of white sand with surrounding dunes. Check out Blokhus beach and Saltum beach (near Blokus in the north), and Hornbæk beach (in the north near Hornbæk), Bøgebjerg beach (near Odense in the center of the country) is a draw for windsurfers and Rømø is an island a short drive away with wide sandy beaches and activities like horseback riding. The coastline of West Jutland has a number of sandy beaches and resort towns to explore and, for swimming in Copenhagen, check out Amager Beach Park and Svanemølle beach.

Other Things to See and Do in Denmark

1. visit kronborg castle.

Located along the coast in Helsingør and built between 1220-1230, the castle was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. It is also the castle where Shakespeare set his play, Hamlet, in 1609. It’s a great place to wander and explore, and it’s only an hour from Copenhagen. You can tour the castle and see the royal apartments (which date to 1576) as well as the dining hall (home to 40 tapestries depicting 100 different Danish kings) and the chapel (which was inaugurated in 1582). Tickets are 125 DKK.

2. Explore Dyrehaven

Known commonly as The Deer Park, this park was built in 1669 as hunting grounds for Danish royalty and is only a 20-minute train ride from Copenhagen. Spanning over 11 kilometers (7 miles), you can cycle, picnic, hike, and horseback ride in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are over 2,000 deer that live in the park. Be sure to visit The Hermitage at the center of the park, which was the royal hunting lodge built in the 1730s where King Christian VI could rest and entertain guests after a hunt. You can take a guided tour of the interior for 125 DKK. Bakken Amusement Park, also within the park, has all kinds of rides, carnival games, and slot machines. It’s the world’s oldest amusement park founded in 1583. Admission to both the park and amusement park is free.

3. Explore the Skagens Museum

This museum is located at the very tip of Jutland and features an extensive collection of works by the Skagen Painters, a group of artists who lived in Skagen in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the town became a place for young artists from around Denmark to gather. The museum was founded in 1908 and merged with two other historic house museums in 2014. Now, the museum has nearly 11,000 works of art. Most paintings show scenes from the beaches, homes, and daily lives of those who lived in Skagen at the time. You can also see the studios in which a few of the artists worked. Admission is 125 DKK for the main museum. Two of the Skagen artist’s homes have been turned into exhibitions. You can visit all three for 200 DKK.

4. Visit Randers

A small town located on the Jutland peninsula, this is a nice place to base yourself if you want to hike, bird watch, or cycle. The city sits at the edge of the Gudena River, and its history goes back to the 11th century. You can walk along Denmark’s first pedestrian street and enjoy the historic architecture along the medieval alleyways. The city’s Clausholm Castle is one of the country’s last remaining castles. It was built in the 1690s and is one of the oldest Baroque estates in Denmark. Many of the rooms remain in their original condition. The surrounding grounds are home to 1,000 linden trees and it’s the perfect place for a picnic on a warm sunny day after exploring the castle. Admission to just the grounds is 50 DKK, while access to the park and the castle is 150 DKK. You can also see Randers Rainforest Zoo (the largest artificial rainforest in Northern Europe). Admission to the zoo is 215 DKK. For something out of the ordinary, check out the Memphis Mansion, a tribute to Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. The museum was started by an enthusiastic collector of Elvis memorabilia. There’s even a diner with food inspired by the American South. Admission is 145 DKK.

5. Visit Svendborg

Located on the island of Funen in southern Denmark, Svendborg is a town entrenched in history Don’t miss Naturama, a wildlife museum with tons of interactive exhibits (admission is 175 DKK), as well as the Forsorgs museum, a ‘welfare’ museum in the city’s former poorhouse. It highlights the horrific working conditions of the city’s poor prior to Denmark becoming the equitable welfare state it is today. Be sure to also spend some time wandering around Svendborg and taking in the historical architecture. There are all kinds of charming narrow lanes and historic houses and shops in town. If you want to get outside, you can catch a ferry from Svendborg and go island hopping around the South Fyn Archipelago. There are also lots of places for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

6. Meander through Tivoli

Just adjacent to Copenhagen Central Station, Tivoli is the city’s famous amusement park. Complete with a Ferris wheel, games, roller coasters, and a concert hall, this is an awesome place to spend an afternoon. It’s not cheap but it’s certainly fun There are rides for kids of all ages and plenty of places to grab a souvenir or a bite to eat. You may catch a live performance at one of the venues inside the park or enjoy the gardens of The Orangery. There’s even an aquarium and a bamboo forest inside the park. Depending on the time of year, you may see the park decked out for various holidays like Easter and Halloween. Avoid the weekend and school holidays when the place is overflowing with families. Weekday admission is 140 DKK during the off-season, 160 DKK during summer weekdays and summer weekends cost 180 DKK.

7. Head over to North Zealand

Just a train ride away from Copenhagen, North Zealand features an idyllic coastline, beautiful landscapes, and the Shakespearean setting of Kronborg Castle. The region is often called “The Danish Riviera” due to its plentiful sandy beaches and numerous cultural icons. Don’t miss Tisvildeleje, Dronningmølle, and Gudmindrup beach if you’re looking to lounge and enjoy the sunshine. If you are looking to get away from the city for a day or maybe more, this is an awesome place and one not often visited by tourists. Visit the 17th-century Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød, which is considered Denmark’s Versailles (admission is 90 DKK). The Maritime Museum of Denmark (135 DKK) and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (145 DKK) can be found in North Zealand as well. Helsingør and Hillerød make for good bases in the region if you plan on exploring.

8. Visit the Jelling stones

The Jelling stones are massive runestones (raised stones with runic inscriptions), dating all the way back to the 10th century, that show the accomplishments of Kind Harald Bluetooth. The large stone is the first known place the name Denmark appears on record. The stones were declared a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1994 and are worth checking out if you are in the area (they are located in Jelling, which is just 25 minutes by car from Legoland). The oldest runestone was raised by King Gorm the Old in memory of his wife and the largest stone was left by Harald Bluetooth to celebrate his conquest of Denmark and Norway (wireless Bluetooth is named after Harald). You can reach Jelling by train from Aarhus. The ride takes just over an hour. Admission is free.

9. Watch the Hans Christian Andersen Parade

Famous for his fairy tales, this parade is a performance featuring over 30 characters from Hans C. Andersen’s literary works. Held every day during the summer behind the H. C. Andersen Museum in Odense (Andersen’s hometown) on the southwestern island of Funen, this is a neat event to check out, especially for children. The parade begins at the H.C. Andersen childhood home that’s now a museum and ends in the city center. Live performances act out the stories and there’s even a Fairy Tale Garden with a castle behind the museum.

10. Attend a music festival

Roskilde is the Danish music festival with the biggest international reputation (80,000 people take part), but it only offers a taste of the music scene in Denmark. The summer months are packed with festivals around the country. Distortion happens at the end of May and is a street party and electronic music festival in the heart of Copenhagen. NorthSide festival in June is three days of many stars in the indie and rock world. The Copenhagen Jazz Festival in July fills the city with music with stages in clubs, parks, museums, and other temporary stages. Smukfest in August happens in the forests of Dyrehave and is called “Denmark’s Most Beautiful Festival”. Tønder Festival at the end of August is focused on bringing people together around original music and connection. The list goes on. Danes love a good festival!

11. See Den Japanske Have (Japanese Gardens)

Located in the town of Aarhus, this beautiful and sophisticated Japanese garden includes a tea house, shop, café, several sub-gardens, and a Japanese house. The garden took two years to construct and is designed in the “kaiyu” style, with circular walking paths to take in the scenery of waterfalls, native Japanese trees and flowers, koi ponds, and miniature mountains. The garden is free and there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy a picnic lunch!

12. Visit Camp Adventure

This nature-focused park is surrounded by a beech forest with activities for all ages. It’s located on South Zealand, about an hour southwest of Copenhagen by car. You can also get there by train. Camp Adventure is the largest climbing park in Denmark with eleven courses covering all skill levels. The Forest Tower is an hourglass-shaped observation tower with a 3.2-kilometer walking path that takes you 45 meters high, giving you a view of the forest from above the trees. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Copenhagen. It’s the highest observation tower in Scandinavia and has won multiple architecture awards. Northern Europe’s largest flower farm is also part of the park. You can walk through the fields for free or pick your own bouquet for 50 DKK. Entrance to the climbing park is 375 DKK and the tower is 175 DKK. If you want to visit the both, the price is 475 DKK.

13. Go Hunting for Giants and Trolls

If you want to get off the beaten path, go looking for the Six Forgotten Giants and other large-scale artworks by Danish artist, Thomas Dambo. Back in 2011, Thomas set out to reduce waste and began turning discarded items into unique figures of giants and trolls. The Forgotten Giants are located in the suburbs around Copenhagen. One is even in the Freetown of Christiania and a few others are scattered around the city. There are more than thirty of these trolls and giants on display throughout Denmark. A few of them are near major cities like Odese, but most are in natural settings and scenic places. Finding them is an opportunity to go on a treasure hunt and get away from the tourist areas. Plus they’re all free to visit!

  For more information on specific cities in Denmark, check out these guides:

• Aarhus Travel Guide
• Copenhagen Travel Guide

Denmark Travel Costs

Accommodation – Rates vary a lot depending on what city you’re staying in (prices are higher in Copenhagen). On average, you’ll wind up paying about 330 DKK for a dorm room at a hostel with 6-8 beds. For a private room, prices start around 755 DKK per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Free breakfast isn’t that common here though.

For a budget hotel room, expect to pay around 750 DKK per night for a two-star hotel. Free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker are usually included.

Airbnb is pretty expensive when not booked early, especially in Copenhagen. Expect to pay an average of 500 DKK per night for a private room (though if you book early you can find them for 300 DKK), while entire homes/apartments cost around 700 DKK. Airbnb options are prolific throughout the country.

If camping is your thing, you’ll have plenty of options all across the country. Wild camping is illegal, but you can look for “free-tenting” zones in public forests and pitch a tent there! The only catch is that you can only stay one night per camp spot. For paid campsites, expect to pay between 60-100 DKK for a basic plot without electricity. Many of the major campgrounds sell out early so be sure to book in advance during the peak season (June-August).

Food – Danish cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood. Cod, herring, and pork are never far from any meal. Dark bread and open-faced sandwiches known as 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.

Eating out — like everything in Denmark — is pricey. A meal out at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 500 DKK. Cheap takeaway sandwich shops cost 150 DKK while a fast-food combo (think McDonald’s) costs around 90 DKK.

For a three-course meal and a drink, expect to pay at least 500 DKK. Chinese food and Thai food can be found for as little as 85-80 DKK. Expect to pay around 60-80 DKK for a pizza.

Food trucks and food halls are popular in the country’s larger cities. Don’t miss Torvehallerne and Tivoli Food Hall in Copenhagen, which offers everything from tapas and drinks to fresh produce and local cheeses. Expect to spend at least 150 DKK for a meal. In Aarhus, head to Aarhus Street Food, where a collection of food trucks offer everything from Turkish and Korean food to fish and chips to sweet treats.

Beer is 50 DKK while a cappuccino/latte is around 40 DKK. Bottled water is around 20 DKK.

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

Backpacking Denmark Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 585 DKK per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, use public transportation, limit your drinking, and do free activities like free walking tours and hiking. If you want to eat out or drink more often, you’ll need to add at least another 100-200 DKK per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,275 DKK, you’ll be able to stay in a hotel, eat out, enjoy a couple of drinks here and there, do more paid activities like museums and castles as well as walking tours.

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

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.

Denmark Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Denmark can be an expensive country to visit. The cost of living here is just really high. If you aren’t careful, you’ll blow through your entire budget in no time. There’s no way to make this country a “cheap” place to visit but here are some ways to save money when you’re here:

• Go orange – The Danish rail system offers cheap tickets via their website called “Orange tickets.” They are only available online, and you have to print out the ticket before you board the train. These tickets are up to 60% cheaper than what you can buy at the railway station. If you travel outside of the rush hour times, you can save even more!
• Get a city tourism card – If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and visit a lot of attractions then I highly recommend you get one of the city passes that offer discounts and free admission to museums and attractions. They also come with free transportation. If you plan on seeing a lot, these can save you money. Most of the major cities in the country offer a tourism card so be sure to look into them.
• 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. The city of Copenhagen has also installed a number of drinking fountains around the city so you can easily fill up while you’re out for the day.
• Eat on the street – Street stalls selling hot dogs and sausages are cheap and plentiful. Fill up on them if you’re on a budget as they only cost a few dollars each. There are also a number of food halls around in Copenhagen where you can get good food for less than you’d pay in a restaurant. If it’s a nice day, you can get groceries at the local market and picnic in the park with the locals.
• 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 as you get 10% off your stay. If purchased in Denmark, HI cards are 160 DKK.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Denmark is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find Couchsurfing hosts throughout the country. 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. You may be able to find work exchanges where you can stay at a local hostel or B&B in exchange for helping out.
• Cook your food – Eating out in Denmark is not cheap. If you’re on a budget, cook your own meals. It won’t be glamorous but it will save you money! It’s pretty easy to find a food markets around the country. Look for open-air markets in the warmer months for local, seasonal food that’s much cheaper than eating out.
• Eat out for breakfast or lunch – If you must eat out, do so during lunch when specials and buffet deals make restaurants reasonably priced. The lunch menus are often similar to dinner but the prices are lower. You can also pick up a pastry or sandwich in a café for much less than going out for dinner.
• Book in advance – Booking train and bus tickets a month in advance can save you up to 50%. Also, booking your accommodations in advance can help you save money over last-minute prices. Some sites, like Booking.com, even have rewards programs that help you save extra the more you book through them.

Where to Stay in Denmark

Denmark has lots of fun, affordable, and social hostels. Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Denmark:

• Danhostel Aarhus City (Aarhus)
• Generator Copenhagen (Copenhagen)
• Woodah-Boutique-Hostel (Copenhagen)
• Copenhagen Downtown Hostel (Copenhagen)
• Danhostel Ishoj Strand (Ishoj)

How to Get Around Denmark

Public transportation – Public transportation in Denmark is clean, reliable, and safe. Tickets for public transportation cost around 24 DKK for a single fare. Unlimited tickets are also available and usually costing around 90 DKK for 24 hours. There are options for up to 72 hours.

The train from the airport to downtown Copenhagen is 36 DKK each way.

Bus – Flixbus is the most common way to travel around Denmark on a budget. A bus ride from Copenhagen to Aarhus starts at 70 DKK and takes 4 hours. A ride from Copenhagen to Odense starts around 70 DKK and takes just a little under two hours. A bus ride from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany starts at 150 DKK and takes between 5 and 7 hours, depending on the number of stops. Book early to secure a seat — especially in the summer.

Train – The train is a bit more expensive than the bus but will take less time. A train ride from Copenhagen to Aarhus starts at 169 DKK and takes 2 hours and 45 minutes, while the ride from Aarhus to Aalborg starts at 94 DKK and takes about 1 and a half hours. From Copenhagen to Berlin, the 7-hour ride starts at around 675 DKK.

To find routes and prices for trains around Denmark (and Europe), use Trainline .

Flying – Denmark is a small country so domestic flights are unnecessary. You can travel by train from Copenhagen to Aarhus in 3 hours. A flight will be just 35 minutes, however, once you add on getting to and from the airport it doesn’t save any time (and a flight will cost you over 1,200 DKK — four times more expensive than the train!).

Car rental – If you’re staying a while in Denmark and doing a lot of city-hopping, a car is likely a cheaper alternative to buses and trains. You can find rentals for as little as 250 DKK per day. To rent a car in Denmark, you need to be 19 and have had your license for at least one year. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Bicycle – Cycling is huge in Denmark. Bikes can be rented for around 125 DKK per day. Helmets are not included and cost 40 DKK extra. In Copenhagen, Donkey Republic (the city’s bike-share program) lets you rent bikes for as little as 15 minutes or for multiple days. One hour costs 36 DKK. Use the app to find bike locations near you. Every city has bike lanes and is cyclist-friendly.

When to Go to Denmark

Since Denmark is a peninsula and also has a few islands, the temperature is heavily influenced by the sea. Summers are mild and winters are cold. As with the rest of Scandinavia, expect long days in the summer and extra darkness in winter.

The best time to visit is in the shoulder season. The late spring and early autumn both offer decent weather with fewer crowds. It might rain a little, but you’ll find prices to be cheaper. While summer is when most tourists visit, there’s plenty to do all year. The weather can still be chilly with average highs between 6°C (43°F) in March and 16°C (61°F) in May so packing layers is a good idea.

Denmark has a lot of forests and fall is a great time to see the leaves changing colors on one of the many hiking trails around the country. Temperatures do start to drop and the average highs are between 17°C (63°F) in September and 7°C (46°F) in November so pack layers.

July and August are the most popular times to visit. High temperatures sit around 22°C (72°F) so the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and urban exploring. Book in advance if you visit during this time (especially in Copenhagen) as things can sell out. Expect prices to be a little higher during the summer as well.

Winters hover around 0°C (32°F), so dress warmly. Sunset is around 3pm so pack in as many outdoor activities as you can during the day if you plan on going then. While not the best time to visit for weather, there is still plenty to do and prices will be cheap. If you want to go for the holidays, booking in advance will help you save money.

How to Stay Safe in Denmark

Denmark is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo. Denmark is the second safest country in the world so violent incidents are rare. Your only real concern is petty theft – and that is also really uncommon. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe though (it’s good to do that anywhere).

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 are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

While cannabis used to be openly sold in Freetown Christiania, an intentional community in Copenhagen, 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. You’ll get your camera broken by angry locals if you do.

Scams here are rare, however, 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.

Remember to always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Don’t leave your personal items unattended. You can always loop a strap of your bag around the leg of your chair for an extra level of security so no one can walk away it.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect 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:

Denmark 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!

Denmark Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

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

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Home » Travel Guides » Denmark » 25 Best Things To Do In Denmark

25 Best Things To Do In Denmark

Many people know it as simply Denmark, but this is actually the Kingdom of Denmark thanks to the Royal Family that has resided here for centuries and made this a sovereign state. As a result, palaces and castles feature heavily on the landscape, and if you are a history buff then there is a huge amount to enjoy.

Arguably a number of the best attractions in Denmark however happen out of doors, as this country is home to some of the most stunning natural sights on earth, such as floating sand dunes that change location every year and majestic cliffs that bring with them 65 million years worth of history. As if that wasn’t enough, you can explore some of the islands off the main coast of the country, where you will find vast pine forests, wild horses, and relaxing seals. Depending on your interests, you can take a trip back in time to learn all about the Viking roots of the smallest country in Nordic region, or fast forward into the future at some of the most cutting edge museums in the world such as the Maritime Museum or the AroS Art Museum.

Lets explore the best things to do in Denmark :

1. Visit the animals at Copenhagen Zoo

Copenhagen Zoo has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest zoos in the whole of Europe and it was first opened in 1859. The zoo sprawls over 27 acres of land and you find 264 different species here as over 3,000 animals call the zoo home.

The area is made up of different sections such as the Tropical Zoo which spans 1,500 square meters and mimics the conditions of the rainforest and you will find animals like deer, snakes, and crocodiles here as well as a butterfly garden.

For younger visitors there is a Children’s Zoo and you can get up close with the animals like dwarf goats from Africa.

2. Discover Thy National Park

Thy National Park is the first official national park in Denmark and spans 12 kilometers of land along the western coastline of Jutland.

Here you will find rugged landscapes as well as vast pine forests and bracing sea air.

Hiking and biking are both popular activities in the park and you can amble over scenic sand dunes as you take in the local flora and fauna.

Birdwatchers are also in for a treat as there are over 30 species of birds in the park, as well as resident otters.

In addition to the wildlife found here you can also take in the grave mounds that dot the site and date from the Bronze Age.

3. Climb the Råbjerg Mile

Nestled near Skagen in the North Jutland region is that largest moving sand dune in all of Northern Europe.

The Råbjerg Mile moves at a rate of around 18 meters per year, and you can still see the path that it has carved in the surrounding landscapes as the sands have rumbled past.

This is one of the premium tourist attractions in Denmark and more than 250,000 people come here annually to marvel at this amazing feat of nature.

4. Visit Egeskov Castle in Funen

Egeskov is one of the most beautiful and famous buildings in Europe and is built in the Renaissance style.

Points of interest to look out for if you come here include the mighty Knights’ Hall as well as elegant spires and a working moat.

The area around the castle is as famous as the interior and you will find a large forest dotted with local buildings and trails.

There is also a Segway course here if you feel like something a little more relaxing.

5. Stand in the northernmost spot of Grenen

Most people won’t know that the northernmost point in Denmark is Grenen.

As you stand looking over the water here you will be able to see the spot where the Skagerrak and Kattegat seas meet and crash together as they break over the Skaw Reef.

This area is known as the tip of the European mainland and you will be able to watch the resident seals at play as well as enjoy the beach which has some of the best coastline in the country.

6. Visit a buried church in Skagen

The seaside area of Skagen is the home of Den Tilsandede Kirke or the sand buried church.

It is dedicated to Saint Laurence who is the saint of seafarer’s and it dates from the 14th century.

In the days gone by this would have been the largest church in the region but the nearby sands have drifted here over the years, starting in the 17th century, and started to cover the building.

The church was finally closed in 1795 when the sands overtook it to the point where it could no longer be used and now only the main tower can be seen poking out of the dunes.

7. Explore the Viking burial grounds of Lindholm Høje

If you venture to Lindholm Høje you will find some of the most amazing Viking artifacts in Europe.

Once buried in the sands here, they were undiscovered for centuries before being uncovered and put on display.

The grave sites here date from the Iron Age and the Viking Age and you will find 682 graves as well as 150 ships carved from stone.

There is also a preserved village here that has stone circles and wells.

Part of the complex is the Lindholm Høje Museum where many of the relics that were discovered are displayed and there are also 3D exhibitions that tell the story of how life in the Viking Era would have been.

8. Enjoy the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense

The famous children’s writer Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense and you can come here to visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum that dates from 1908. The museum tells the story of the writer’s life and work and you will find exhibitions that feature many of his unique drawings and paintings.

If you want to hear some of his famous stories then there are listening posts dotted around the museum and a museum shop where you can pick up a copy for yourself.

9. Go underground at the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is Helsingør was designed by Bjarke Ingels and sits in the shadow of the castle depicted in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

What makes it different from so many other museums is that it is actually located deep underground where it then takes you on a tour of the maritime history of Denmark.

It is easy to visit from neighboring Copenhagen and well worth the trip to experience one of the most unique museum settings in the world.

10. Build a tower at Legoland in Billund

This is a great pick if you are travelling with children as you get to experience all the fun of playing with Lego on a massive scale.

At Legoland in Billund you will get to see 25 acres of Lego themed parks that include an astonishing 40 million blocks of Lego.

There are reconstructions of famous monuments both from Denmark and around the world here as well as rides and themed areas like Pirateland, Castleland, and Duplo land.

11. Drive across Oresund Bridge

Oresund Bridge in Denmark connects the country to neighboring Sweden and stretches for an impressive 5 miles across the water.

It is the longest bridge in Europe and for that reason alone it is worth a look as you take in the sweeping views that herald the last glimpses of Denmark and usher in new vistas as you approach Sweden.

Included in: Lund & Malmö: Guided Tour of 2 Countries in One Day

12. Have fun at Dyrehavsbakken

If you drive 10 minutes outside of Copenhagen you will come to the amazing Dyrehaven, a famous lush forest which contains hidden depths.

Inside the forest you will find Dyrehavsbakken which is an amusement park that is also the oldest of its kind in the world having been opened in 1583. You will find a selection of rides here including a rollercoaster that dates back 82 years as well as arcades, shooting ranges, and restaurants.

13. Explore the ancient fortress of Kastellet

Sitting on the edge of Copenhagen is Kastellet which is a fortress that mirrors the shape of a star.

There are bastions at each of the five points of the star and this would have been a section of the main ramparts that encircled and protected Copenhagen.

The area dates from 1660 when it was commissioned by King Christian IV who was fearful of Denmark being attacked from the sea.

You will also find a windmill, a church, and a park located within the citadel.

14. Dress up as a Viking at the Viking Museum

Located in Roskilde is the Viking Museum which has the claim to fame of having five preserved Viking boats.

The ships are over 1,000 years old and the museum has guided tours every day that will tell you all about how people would have lived during the Viking Era.

You can even dress up in period garb and go out on the water in a reconstructed boat if you really want to get into the spirit of things.

15. Check out the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen

Perhaps the most iconic site in all of Denmark is the sculpture of the Little Mermaid which is now over 100 years old.

The sculpture is made of bronze and takes its inspiration from the story of the Little Mermaid by Danish native Hans Christian Andersen.

The Little Mermaid sits on a rock on the shoreline and gazes towards the land where the story says that she is in love with a prince.

Related tour : Copenhagen Segway Tour

16. Watch the wild horses of Langeland

You may not realize that there are any wild horses still left in Denmark but actually they are well known on the island of Langeland which is a big hit with domestic travelers.

Here you will find flocks of horses with foals that run all over the island.

The most popular place to see them is from a small hill that is known as Ørnehøj and you can enter the area where the horses run as long as you don’t disturb them in any way.

17. Visit Kronborg Castle

Located in Helsingor is Kronborg Castle which was the setting for the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare.

It is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates from 1640. Things to look out for include the castle chapel as well as the ornate woodcarvings that decorate the interior.

The style is from the Renaissance period and you will find the amazing Knight’s Hall in the center of the building along with ancient tapestries that line the west of the castle.

18. Have a beer at the Carlsberg Brewery

Just outside of Copenhagen sits the Carlsberg Brewery which is the home of one of the best known beers in the world.

If you want to know how it is brewed and produced then you can take a tour here with a beer historian who will tell you how beer was first made in Denmark.

There is also the largest beer bottle collection in the world on display here and of course you can indulge in a tasting session of some of the classic beers that have made this brand famous.

19. Go back in time at the Lyngby Open-Air Museum

If you drive 15 kilometers out of Copenhagen you will come to the Lyngby Open-Air Museum which unfolds over 35 hectares.

Here you will find a range of traditional buildings like mills and farmhouses which will give you a great picture of how people would have lived and worked in Denmark in the days of old.

You will even find animals here, many of which are ancient breeds that would have roamed Denmark centuries ago.

If you really want to dive into the atmosphere then you can also go for a romantic horse and carriage ride around the gardens of the museum.

20. Take a ferry to Bornholm Island

The island of Bornholm sits in the Baltic Sea and is known as the ‘Pearl of the Baltic’. It is known for having gorgeous pristine beaches and the island is bisected with bicycle paths so that you can get easily get around by cycling.

The buildings here date from the 1800s and you can get here by taking a picturesque ferry ride.

21. Tour Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace is actually not one but four palaces that were constructed for the four noble families of Denmark.

The palace was actually a replacement for the previous Christiansborg Palace which was razed to the ground in a fire in 1794 and features beautiful octagon shaped courtyards, ornate inner rooms, and blooming gardens in the spring months.

Make sure to also look out for the Soldiers of the Royal Guard who protect the palace and wear signature bearskins.

• 22.  Meet the Giants of Esbjerg

The Giants of Esbjerg are not as scary as they might sound, but they are well worth the trip out to the West Coast of Denmark.

The giants are actually huge sculptures by Danish artist Svend Wiig and were first paced here in 1995 to guard the coastline.

The sculpture is officially called Man Meets the Sea and is meant to be a comment on the way that man and nature co-exist.

23. Stand inside a rainbow at AroS Art Museum

AroS Art Museum is famous in Aarhus and it is modeled to reflect Dante’s Divine Comedy.

The piece de résistance of this art museum however is the top layer of the building which is now home to a rainbow window that gives you panoramic views over Aarhus through the lens of a selection of window panes painted in different hues.

The circuit around the rainbow rooftop stretches for 150 meters and is an absolute must-visit if you are in this city.

24. Hunt for fossils at Stevns Klint

Stevns Klint sits in the South Zealand region of Denmark and has some of the most important fossils in the world.

The cliffs here show off 65 million years of history and you can wander along the coastline and take in the different slices of sediment that have built up here over the years and that are now slowly crumbling back into the sea.

You can also learn more about the fossils found here and their significance at the nearby Geomuseum which has interactive exhibits that tell the story of the geology of Denmark.

25. Feel like royalty at Christiansborg Palace

Sitting on a pretty island in the center of Copenhagen is Christiansborg Palace.

The island is called Slotsholmen and is now the center of the government and houses the parliament buildings as well the office of the Danish Prime Minister.

It is officially also owned by the Royal Family although much of it can still be visited and this is also the spot where the earliest foundations of the city of Copenhagen would have been laid in 1167. You can even see some of this in the form of ruins of a fortress that dates from the medieval period as well as the former ruined castle of Bishop Absalon.

25 Best Things To Do In Denmark:

• Visit the animals at Copenhagen Zoo
• Discover Thy National Park
• Climb the Råbjerg Mile
• Visit Egeskov Castle in Funen
• Stand in the northernmost spot of Grenen
• Visit a buried church in Skagen
• Explore the Viking burial grounds of Lindholm Høje
• Enjoy the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense
• Go underground at the Maritime Museum
• Build a tower at Legoland in Billund
• Drive across Oresund Bridge
• Have fun at Dyrehavsbakken
• Explore the ancient fortress of Kastellet
• Dress up as a Viking at the Viking Museum
• Check out the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen
• Watch the wild horses of Langeland
• Visit Kronborg Castle
• Have a beer at the Carlsberg Brewery
• Go back in time at the Lyngby Open-Air Museum
• Take a ferry to Bornholm Island
• Tour Amalienborg Palace
• Stand inside a rainbow at AroS Art Museum
• Hunt for fossils at Stevns Klint
• Feel like royalty at Christiansborg Palace

©Frank Fischbach/500px

Chart-topping contentment and quality of life, blockbuster dining and design, and a cheerful emphasis on hygge – explore (and envy) what makes Denmark tick.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kronborg Slot

Best known as the Elsinore Castle of Shakespeare's Hamlet, this Unesco World Heritage Site is a vast Renaissance masterpiece topped by baroque green…

Frederiksborg Slot

One of Denmark's most impressive buildings, this gigantic, Dutch Renaissance–styled fortress-palace rises proudly out of photogenic moat-lake Slotsø…

Mind-blowing Lego models, fun rides and the happy-family magic associated with great theme parks have transformed Legoland into Denmark’s most visited…

Hammershus Slotsruin

The impressive ruins of Hammershus Slot, dramatically perched on top of a cliff 74m above the sea, are the largest in Scandinavia. The castle was thought…

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…

ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum

Inside the cubist, red-brick walls of Aarhus’ showpiece art museum are nine floors of sweeping curves, soaring spaces and white walls showcasing a…

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Denmark and beyond

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Denmark

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Lura R. Seavey Updated Apr 13, 2023

Denmark's many charms have become apparent to a global audience, particularly in recent years. Scandinavia's "European" wing boasts glorious beaches, beautiful fairy-tale castles, lush forests, a temperate climate, friendly citizens, and an infectious joie de vivre among its many attractions.

Smash TV series Borgen made a star of Copenhagen's attractions — in particular, the magnificent parliament buildings at Christiansborg . Similarly, Danish/Swedish collaboration Bronen ( The Bridge ) showed the world the Oresund Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering, which links the two countries by road and rail. For lovers of literature, a visit to Odense , the hometown of master storyteller Hans Christian Andersen , is a must.

Denmark's eco-credentials are obvious throughout the land. In Copenhagen, the bicycle takes precedence over the car and is arguably the best way to go sightseeing in this compact, picturesque city. On top of all this, the food is legendary — Danish fine dining paves the way for the best of Scandinavian cuisine.

Find your next favorite place to visit with our list of the top attractions in Denmark.

1. Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen

2. christiansborg palace, copenhagen, 3. national museum of denmark (nationalmuseet), copenhagen, 4. the open-air museum (frilandsmuseet), lyngby, 5. the national gallery of denmark (statens museum for kunst), copenhagen, 6. lego house, billund, 7. nyhavn, copenhagen, 8. kronborg slot (kronborg castle), helsingør, 9. egeskov castle, kvarnstrup, 10. viking ship museum (vikingeskibsmuseet), roskilde, 11. den gamle by, aarhus, 12. hans christian andersen museum, odense, 13. amalienborg palace musuem, copenhagen, 14. the island of bornholm, 15. frederiksborg palace and the museum of national history, copenhagen, 16. oresund bridge, copenhagen, 17. the funen village (den fynske landsby), 18. wadden sea national park, esbjerg, 19. the round tower (rundetårn), copenhagen, off the beaten path in denmark: the farøe islands, map of tourist attractions in denmark.

When visiting Copenhagen , many visitors make a beeline for the iconic recreation space at Tivoli Gardens .

Dating from 1843, Tivoli is the inspiration behind the world-famous Disney theme parks, and here, you'll find a huge range of attractions including a roller coaster, roundabouts, puppet theaters, restaurants, cafés, gardens, food pavilions, and even a Moorish-styled concert hall.

Known across the world, Tivoli has appeared in numerous movies and is a true symbol of the city. At night, firework displays illuminate the sky, and in winter, the gardens are adorned with lights for the Christmas season. During the summer, you can catch free rock concerts on Friday nights.

Address: Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 Copenhagen

On the tiny island of Slotsholmen in the center of Copenhagen, you'll find the Danish seat of government, Christiansborg Palace . It's home to the Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court, and several wings are still used by the Royal household.

Among the most spectacular of the viewable areas are the Royal Reception Rooms, decadently ornate spaces that are still used today for royal receptions and galas. If you like seeing what goes on behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly, head to the Royal Kitchen to get a glimpse of what it was like to prepare a banquet for hundreds of guests nearly a century ago.

Equine enthusiasts will want to take a tour of the Royal Stables, including original buildings that survived the massive fires that destroyed both Christian VI's 1740 palace and its 1828 successor. Along with getting a peek at some of the world's most pampered horses, you will see historic horse-drawn vehicles, including the 1778 Queen Dowager Juliane Marie's state coach and the Golden State Coach, which was built in 1840 and is adorned with 24-carat gold.

Long before the site was home to royal residences, Bishop Absalon built fortifications on this spot in 1167. If you want to plunge deeper into history, you can explore the excavated ruins of the original castle, which are located beneath the palace.

If you appreciate ecclesiastical architecture, be sure to see the Palace Chapel, which draws inspiration from the Pantheon in Rome.

Since the palace is still in active use by the royal family, it's wise to check the opening hours to ensure you can visit the areas you're most interested in.

Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218, Copenhagen

A 10-minute stroll from Tivoli Gardens leads to the National Museum (Nationalmuseet) , which delves into Danish history and culture. This museum displays an impressive collection of Danish artifacts, including a 2,000-year-old sun chariot, Danish porcelain and silver, and Romanesque and Gothic church trimmings. Other collections highlight clothing from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as antique furniture.

Supplementing this journey back through Danish history is an excellent ethnographic exhibition with items from Greenland, Asia, and Africa, among others. At the Children's Museum , kids will find plenty of things to do. They can dress up in period costumes, climb aboard a Viking ship, and visit a 1920s-style classroom.

Address: Prince's Mansion, Ny Vestergade 10, 1471, Copenhagen

Just over 15 kilometers from the city, the Open-Air Museum is a popular day trip from Copenhagen . Part of the Danish National Museum, it's a must-see for many visitors to Denmark. Occupying 35 hectares are authentic farmhouses, agricultural buildings, homes, and mills from across the country in this living history museum.

There are also ancient breeds of domestic animals, magnificent historic gardens to wander through, atmospheric old houses from Schleswig-Holstein and Sweden, as well as numerous picnic sites. You can even take a horse-drawn carriage around the grounds.

Address: Kongevejen 100, 2800 Kongens, Lyngby

The National Gallery of Denmark houses the country's largest collection of Danish art. The original exhibits were once housed at Christiansborg but moved to the current location in the late 19th century. A gigantic extension has not only significantly extended the space but allows natural light to flood into the interior of the museum.

Covering more than 700 years of European and Scandinavian art, the museum displays paintings by the Dutch Masters, Picasso, and Edvard Munch among others. Not surprisingly, fine collections of Danish art are also on display. The café is particularly pleasant and a great place to unwind and soak up the surroundings.

Address: Sølvgade 48-50, 1307 Copenhagen

The LEGO House in Billund, the birthplace of the iconic LEGO brick, is a family attraction that all ages will enjoy. If you're on a budget or just quickly passing through, you will appreciate the admission-free areas , which include nine themed playgrounds; three outdoor squares; and the Tree of Life, a 15-meter LEGO tree filled with details.

You can also choose to buy admission to explore the Experience Zones, each representing the classic brick's colors: red for creativity; green for role-playing; blue for cognitive challenges; and yellow for emotions. Visitors also have a chance to learn all about the history of LEGO and its founders.

Address: Ole Kirks Plads 1, 7190 Billund

The star of countless images and postcards of the city, Nyhavn (New Harbor) is a great place to stroll or grab a slice of Copenhagen café culture. Located to the rear of Amalienborg Palace, this was once a disreputable stretch of dockland but has been given a new lease of life with its multi-colored houses, restaurants, and tall ships (some of which are museums) dotting the quayside.

Nyhavn is now a particularly charming quarter and consequently a major Copenhagen attraction for tourists and locals alike. If you're feeling adventurous, you can catch a hydrofoil to Sweden from here or grab a pleasant harbor cruise to see the sights.

Kronborg Castle is not only the setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Consequently, it scores top billing on Helsingor's list of must-see sights. Even those with just a passing interest in the bard will surely want to visit. This imposing structure is clearly visible as you approach it, so you can't really miss it.

The present incarnation dates from 1640, although several other fortresses preceded it. Serving as a garrison for a century or more, the castle was renovated in 1924.

In the South Wing, you'll find the Castle Chapel, which survived a fire in 1629 and has a magnificent Renaissance interior with German wood carvings. The North Wing contains the great Ballroom or Knights' Hall, while exquisite tapestries are displayed in the West Wing.

Address: Kronborg 2 C, 3000 Helsingør

Fairy-tale Egeskov Castle lies in a beautiful setting less than 30 minutes' drive from Odense and is the best-preserved moat castle in Europe. This superb Renaissance structure as seen today was completed in 1554 and originally built for defense.

Over the centuries, the castle has changed hands many times, and later became a model farm. In 1959, the grounds opened to the public, and much renovation and development have taken place since. The grounds are also home to specialty collections, including the Vintage Car Museum and the Camping Outdoor Museum .

Other things to do here include a treetop walk and Segway tours . The Banqueting Hall is simply magnificent.

A visit to Egeskov is a wonderful day trip from Copenhagen, particularly for families.

Address: Egeskov Gade 18, DK-5772 Kværndrup

The Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde gives tourists the unique opportunity to see firsthand how the Vikings constructed their boats, as well as observe how modern shipbuilders are restoring and repairing the vessels that have been unearthed.

The boatyard, which is located next to the museum, uses traditional methods to create reproductions and bring old boats back to life. Inside the museum, you will learn about the Viking Age and the central role that maritime life played in the culture and survival of the people.

The central exhibit, Viking Ship Hall, features five ships once used by the Vikings to form a barrier on Roskilde Fjord . After extensive and painstaking underwater excavations, the ships were restored and are now on display.

One of the museum's newest additions is the high-tech "Climb Aboard" experience, where tourists are fully immersed in life aboard a Viking ship. This interactive experience is complete with costumes for those who want to really dive in, as well as the opportunity to explore the ship's rooms and supplies and even experience sensory changes as the journey takes you through day and night, rough seas and calm, and all sorts of weather.

Address: Vindeboder 12, DK-4000 Roskilde

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Roskilde

Aarhus' living history museum, Den Gamle By , provides visitors with an authentic re-creation of not just one era in Danish history, but three distinct decades.

Divided into three neighborhoods, you will find representations of life in Denmark during the mid-19th century, the 1020s, and 1974. Each detail, from the architecture and roads to businesses and domestic lives of the costumed interpreters, illustrates how life has changed over time and the ways that some traditions have remained sacred.

In addition to the living history neighborhoods, Den Gamle By is home to several individual museums including Musaeum , the Danish Poster Museum, Toy Museum , the Jewellery Box , Aarhus Story , and the Gallery of Decorative Arts .

Nearby, in the suburb of Højbjerg, the Moesgaard Museum delves even further back in time with in-depth exhibits on the progression of cultures in Denmark through the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Viking Ages, plus an exhibit about medieval Denmark.

Address: Viborgvej 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Aarhus & Easy Day Trips

You can't visit Denmark without being aware of Hans Christian Andersen. His fairy tales and stories are woven into the fabric of Danish society. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum dates from 1908 and is dedicated to the writer's life and work, with displays of artifacts, mementos, and Andersen's own sketches and artwork.

Listening posts and interactive installations bring the writer's words to life, and the domed hall is decorated with scenes from Andersen's autobiography Story of My Life . To the southwest of Odense Cathedral , in Munkemøllestræde, you'll find Hans Christian Andersen's childhood home ( Andersen's Barndomshjem ), which is also part of the museum.

Address: Hans Jensens Stræde 45, 5000 Odense

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Odense

In the Frederiksstaden quarter of Copenhagen, you'll find Amalienborg Palace Museum and its tranquil gardens by the water. Originally built as residences for the nobility, the four palaces face the square. The Danish Royal Family took occupancy after a fire at Christiansborg in 1794, and the palace remains their winter home.

The identical palaces form an octagon, and it's claimed the design is based on plans for a square in Paris that later became the Place de la Concorde. Built in a light Rococo style, the buildings combine both German and French stylistic elements. The Soldiers of the Royal Guard , in their bearskins and blue uniforms, are a particular draw for visitors.

Address: Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257, Copenhagen

This lovely island in the Baltic Sea is a top place to visit for both foreign and domestic visitors, popular for its mild weather, lovely beaches, and extensive walking and cycling trails. One of Bornholm's top tourist attractions is the site of the Hammershus Castle Ruins , a fortress built in the mid-13 th century to defend the island.

The island is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Art (Kunstmuseum) in Gudhjem. The building is a stunning piece in its own right, set overlooking the water towards Christiansoe. This museum has a collection of fine art, as well as sculptures, including several that are positioned outdoors on the grounds.

Just outside Gudhjem, tourists can visit the Melstedgård Agricultural Museum .

The Bornholm Museum in Rønne features a varied collection that encompasses both cultural and natural history. Exhibits include artifacts related to the island's seafaring history and a selection of art spanning from Viking times to the present.

The stunning Frederiksborg Palace was built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century and has hosted Denmark's Museum of National History since 1878. The museum's collections focus on artwork that illustrates the country's history and includes a robust assortment of painted portraits, photography, and prints.

The museum also includes a tour of the castle's interior, where you can explore the rooms that once hosted royalty and nobles. The palace's exterior and grounds include highlights like the Neptune Fountain, a pair of round towers once occupied by the court scribe and sheriff, and a beautiful relief depicting the deities Mars and Venus, which is located on the façade of the Audience House.

Tourists can also freely explore the various paths and gardens surrounding this Renaissance palace.

Address: DK - 3400 Hillerød, Copenhagen

Decades in the planning and often controversial, the Oresund Bridge has quickly become a Scandinavian icon. The bridge is around 10 kilometers from Copenhagen, and you can either drive across or take the train. On the Danish side, it starts out as a tunnel so as not to interfere with flights to and from adjacent Copenhagen Airport.

This eight-kilometer structure opened in 1999 and now links the island of Zealand, Denmark's largest island and home to Copenhagen, to the southwest coast of Sweden, specifically to the port of Malmo, Sweden's third largest city. Fans of Scandi-noir will know that the Oresund Bridge has recently gained much global infamy as the central focus of the smash hit Danish/Swedish TV drama The Bridge .

Funen Village is an open-air living history museum that brings 19th-century Denmark to life, recreating the world that surrounded writer Hans Christian Andersen as he penned his iconic fairy tales. Complete with authentic half-timbered farmhouses with thatched roofs constructed using authentic materials and methods, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

Within the village, you can explore the farms, homes, and workshops, and interact with the living history interpreters to learn about every aspect of life. Fully working farms grow the crops that would have been grown at the time, using methods like horse-drawn plows to cultivate the land. There is a variety of livestock, including working horses, dairy cows and goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens, and in the Children's Village, youngsters are encouraged to interact with the animals.

In addition to learning about farm life, visitors can watch cooking demonstrations and household activities like turning wool into yarn and clothing. There is also a working blacksmith shop and other craftspeople who help the village remain entirely self-reliant.

Address: Sejerskovvej 20, 5260 Odense

Denmark's largest national park is also the world's largest continuous system of mud flats and intertidal sand, containing both salt and freshwater environments, as well as beaches and wetlands. This beautiful natural area is among the top tourist attractions in Esbjerg .

The Wadden Sea National Park sits at the midway point of the Eastern Atlantic migratory routes, making this an ideal place for bird-watching. The waters just off Esbjerg Harbour are also home to the country's largest population of spotted seals , making this an ideal place for nature lovers.

While in the area, history buffs will want to check out the Ribe Viking Museum (VikingeCenter) to see its collections of authentic artifacts and reconstructed settlements. Visitors can explore the living history museum to see what daily life was like for these fascinating peoples, with opportunities to participate in hands-on activities.

Well worth scaling for the excellent panoramic views, the Round Tower (Rundetårn) is 36 meters high and was built as an observatory in 1642.

Here, you'll find a small collection connected with the famous Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe; however, the highlight for most is the viewing platform reached by a spiral ramp. A glass floor hovers 25 meters above the ground, and not only can you gaze out over the rooftops of Copenhagen city, but also peer down into the castle's core.

A short walk through the surrounding old town takes you to Gråbrødretorv , one of the city's most picturesque squares.

Address: Købmagergade 52A, 1150 Copenhagen

The Kingdom of Denmark also encompasses two autonomous countries: the far-flung Farøe Islands and Greenland . Lying some 600 kilometers west of the Norwegian coast, the Farøe Islands (Sheep Islands) is an archipelago of 18 remote islands. Landscapes range from steep rocky coasts, meadows, and mist-cloaked hills to fjords that bite deep inland.

The Gulf Stream moderates the temperatures on land and at sea and attracts a diversity of marine life, including seals, whales, and many species of fish. Anglers come here to cast their lines in the crisp, clear waters, and birders can admire some of the 300-plus species including puffins and guillemots.

A boat trip to the Vestmanna bird cliffs is a highlight. The Farøe Islands also boast a lively music scene with many festivals in the summer.

To the north and northeast of Eysturoy , one of the archipelago's largest islands, lie many sizable and smallish islands. Blessed with a natural harbor surrounded by emerald hills, Klaksvik on Bordoy is the second-largest town in the Farøes. Tourist attractions include the history museum and the Christian's Church (Christians-kirkjan) with a boat hanging from its ceiling, the only one of four to return safely on a stormy winter's night in 1923.

To access the Farøes, you can fly to the airport on the island of Vågar year-round from Copenhagen or hop aboard a ferry from several Danish ports to Torshavn , the capital, on the island of Streymoy .

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

In and Around Copenhagen: It's no secret that a large number of Denmark's top tourist attractions are in its largest city, Copenhagen . Despite its position on the eastern coast, Copenhagen is a great starting point for many day trips , including visits to traditional fishing villages or a hop across Oresund Bridge to Sweden to see the highlights of Malmö .

A Land of Fairy Tales : Best known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, perhaps the most famous of all fairy-tale writers, Odense is a magical place with a rich history. Nearby, Egeskov Castle could easily have been the setting of some of his tales, and there are plenty more attractions to be found in Helsingor , where you will find Hamlet's Kronborg and the stunning Frederiksborg Castle.

More on Denmark

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.

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Denmark In 1 Week: The Ultimate Itinerary

Editorial Note: Earth Curious contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

For a country that’s relatively small, Denmark has a lot to offer. You can visit bustling cities, admire the coastline in small fishing towns, marvel at the country’s architecture, and walk through its historical sites. If you only have 1 week to spend in Denmark, here’s how to make the most of it.

Table of Contents

Introduction:, day 1: copenhagen, day 2: copenhagen, day 3: copenhagen, day 4: frederiksborg castle day trip, day 5: dragør, day 6: aarhus, day 7: aarhus, useful tips for traveling in denmark:, final thoughts:, how this itinerary works:.

• On the first 3 days of your trip, you’ll spend your time in the Danish capital of Copenhagen.
• Then, for the next 2 days, you’ll take 2 day trips from Denmark’s capital city: One to explore 2 castles, and another day trip to a village called Dragør.
• On the last 2 days of your visit, you’ll stay in Aarhus and see what makes the second-largest city in Denmark so special.

You can adapt this itineary:

Although this article is for a 7-day trip to Denmark, please feel free to adapt it to your travel needs, for example, if you only have 3 days in Denmark, you could do 2 days in Copenhagen, then a day trip to Frederiksborg Castle. All of the itineraries written on Earth Curious can be taken and split down day by day for total flexibility.

Editorial note:

Before we begin, a little editorial note, our goal with this itinerary is to make it super easy to follow. We provide Google Maps links to all of the major places we talk about, this includes sights, hotels, and restaurants! In addition, this guide was last updated in March 2023.

Now, let’s get started with your itinerary for the place that is consistently named the “happiest country in the world.”

As the capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen has plenty of cool things to experience. The city offers a mix of charming historical sites, trendy restaurants, and an effortless modern Scandivanian atmosphere. On your first day, you will get settled in the city and explore Copenhagen’s most well-known attractions.

What to do and see in Copenhagen, day 1:

Rosenborg Castle – Google Maps Link

Start the day with a visit to Rosenborg Castle and the King’s Garden. The castle, built by Christian IV in the 17th century, is a beautiful Renaissance-era structure. The architecture is stunning, and the inside is lavishly decorated. The Knights’ Hall has three full-size silver lions standing guard over the coronation thrones. You’ll also see Denmark’s crown jewels in a secure vault at the castle.

After exploring the interior, wander the gardens which have been converted into a public park.

Amalienborg Palace – Google Maps Link

Next, head to Amalienborg Palace, home of Denmark’s current monarch, Margrethe II. Show up in time to see the new guard march through the city centre at 11:30 am for the changing of the guard at noon. If you are very lucky, you might even see one of the royal family members driving out of the palace area, so keep your eyes peeled.

At the Amalienborg Museum, you can get an idea of what the rooms of different monarchs looked like. After leaving the museum, you’ll be near Frederik’s Church, an impressive church with distinctive rococo architecture.

Nyhavn (New Harbour) – Google Maps Link

This is perhaps what you have been waiting for, when you see Copenhagen advertised, it’s often with an image of Nyhavn.

In the afternoon, spend time exploring Nyhavn (New Harbour). This buzzing canal district is full of bright townhomes that house bars, restaurants, and cafes. Author Hans Christian Andersen lived in several different houses in this district during his lifetime.

Take a canal tour to cruise around and learn more about the history of the area.

Where to eat in Copenhagen, day 1?

While in Nyhavn, it’s a lot of fun to eat at the restaurants and cafes right on the canal.

• For a traditional Danish lunch or dinner, head to Hyttefadet.
• For Japanese cuisine made with fresh Scandinavian ingredients, try out Damindra.
• For a cozy atmosphere, go to Faergekro to try out the delicious daily lunch buffet featuring unfussy Danish food.

Where to stay in Copenhagen?

• $$$ – Manon Les Suites
• $$ – Kanalhuset
• $ – Steel House Copenhagen

Get ready for another full day of visiting Denmark’s largest city. Copenhagen is well-designed with infrastructure that makes the city compact and accessible. It’s easy to get around the city to explore. Today, you’ll be visiting several sites that give you a glimpse of the area’s rich cultural heritage.

What to do and see in Copenhagen, day 2?

The Little Mermaid – Google Maps Link

Start the morning off at the Langelinie promenade to see The Little Mermaid Statue inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale. The small sculpture created by Edvard Eriksen in the early 1910s is one of the city’s most visited attractions.

I have to say, when I visited the statue it was a lot smaller than expected, and other people reviewing the attraction have said the same. So, if you only have one day in Copenhagen I would personally skip this.

Kastellet – Google Maps Link

Near the sculpture, you can visit the Kastellet. This star-shaped citadel was built in 1626. The building houses military barracks and offices, but the area is open to the public and has good walking paths.

Design Museum Denmark – Google Maps Link

Then, make your way to the Design Museum Denmark. The museum highlights Denmark’s best pieces of design including architecture, furniture, consumer goods, and fashion. Danish design, and Scandinavian design in general, has a very specific look, so it’s interesting to learn more about the history of Danish design here.

The Round Tower – Google Maps Link

In the afternoon, visit the Round Tower. The observatory was built in the 17th century and is still used by amateur astronomers today. You can look out at Copenhagen on the observatory’s outdoor platform. Besides the observatory, the tower also has a library hall which has been turned into an exhibition space.

Tivoli Gardens – Google Maps Link

You can’t visit Copenhagen without going to Tivoli Gardens, so visit the world’s second-oldest amusement park in the evening. The park is at its most magical with the lights on in the dark, and the fireworks and lights show is worth seeing. Note: the amusement park does close for small periods throughout the year, so be sure to check out the park’s website before deciding to visit.

Where to eat in Copenhagen, day 2?

• At lunchtime, try out Nyboders Kokken , a welcoming little restaurant serving traditional Danish cuisine.
• Another good option for traditional Danish food is Restaurant Skindbuksen , one of Copenhagen’s oldest restaurants which first opened in 1728 as a tap room.
• For something a touch fancier, try out Amalie . This restaurant, which also serves traditional Danish cuisine, has been in the Michelin guide several times.

You could spend days just exploring everything Copenhagen has to offer, but today will be your third full day in Copenhagen because you’ll still want to have time to see more in Denmark. You head to one more of the city’s most popular attractions in the morning. Then, you can explore a few sites that not every tourist makes it to.

What to do and see in Copenhagen, day 3?

Strøget Shopping Street – Google Maps Link

Start off the morning with a walk down Strøget. This pedestrian-only street is filled with cool shops and restaurants. Shops include well-known budget-friendly stores like Zara and H&M alongside designer stores like Louis Vuitton and Giorgio Armani. For Danish fashion, check out Mads Nørgaard and & Other Stories. No matter how old you are, make sure to browse through Lego’s flagship store on Strøget.

Torvehallerne Market – Google Maps Link

Make your way to Torvehallerne Market right in the center of Copenhagen to see the fresh food market. You can browse around the stalls selling fresh produce, fish, meat, cheese, and various pastries. You can come here for lunch or just spend time enjoying the atmosphere.

Vesterbro Neighborhood – Google Maps Link

In the afternoon, explore the Vesterbro neighborhood. While this area was once best known for being the city’s red-light district, the neighborhood attracts visitors thanks to its cool atmosphere today. Browse through the area’s trendy boutiques or edgy secondhand shops. Visit the Meatpacking District in the center of Vesterbro to find the best restaurants, art galleries, and fun nightclubs in the city.

Where to eat in Copenhagen, day 3?

• Stop at the Royal Smushi Cafe on Strøget to sit and sip on a drink and have a small bite while taking a break from shopping.
• If you’d like a more substantial meal while shopping, stop by Riz Raz for Mediterranean-style cuisine.
• At Torvehallerne, you’ll find the best coffee at Coffee Collective (a chain).
• You can also get a great classic sandwich at Hallernes Smørrebrød (a chain).

Travel time: 1 hour train + walk.

Take a day trip to Hillerød to see Frederiksborg Castle just a short distance from Copenhagen. The castle is often called the Versailles of Denmark. If you want to visit more than one castle today, you can also visit Kronborg Castle in Helsingør.

How to get to Frederiksborg Castle?

This is easy! To get to Frederiksborg Castle, you must take a train from Copenhagen’s main train station to Hillerød st. Upon arriving at Hillerød st, you must walk around 20 minutes to reach Frederiksborg Castle.

Trains take 38 minutes and run every 20 minutes. Tickets cost 74kr ($7 USD) one-way as of March 2023.

You can book tickets online, and view the train timetable on the official Danish railway website. In addition, we have made the route on Google Maps which you can view here .

What to do and see near Frederiksborg Castle?

Frederiksborg Castle is located on three islands in the middle of a lake. The castle, built by King Christian IV in the 17th century, is the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia. The castle now houses the Museum of National History.

As you explore the museum, you find portraits, paintings, and other objects representing 500 years of Danish history. After seeing the museum, take time to enjoy the beautiful baroque garden with cascades and parterre flower beds.

Fancy another castle?

It takes under an hour to get from Frederiksborg Castle to Kronborg Castle by train if you decide you want to visit both in one day. See the Google Maps route here . Literature lovers should definitely make the trip to Kronborg castle as it’s the castle where Shakespeare set his play Hamlet in.

Kronborg Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each day multiple guided tours take place. You can also explore the crypts and catacombs under the castle.

Where to eat near Frederiksborg Castle?

• While visiting Frederiksborg Castle, you can eat at the Leonora restaurant . Named after Christian IV’s favorite daughter, this a la carte restaurant overlooks the castle lake and is located in a building originally used as the castle’s stables in the 1600s.

Where to eat near Kronborg Castle?

• If you’re interested in getting dinner in Helsingor after visiting Kronborg Castle, try out La Dolce Vita for delicious authentic Italian dishes.

Travel time: 30-40 minutes by train, then bus.

Enjoy one of Denmark’s charming villages on a day trip to Dragør from Copenhagen. Dragør is a fishing village located on the island of Amager. The village itself is beautiful and its surrounding are equally scenic. It was founded as a fishing port in the 12th century and was further settled in the early 16th century.

How to get to Dragør?

To reach Dragør, take a train from Copenhagen Central Station to Tårnby, then from Tårnby, catch a 20 minute bus to Dragør. You can view the route on Google Maps here .

What to do and see in Dragør?

Dragør is a complete change of pace from the bustling activity in Copenhagen despite being only about 8 miles away. If you would rather bike instead of taking the bus to Dragør, it would take you roughly 45 minutes to get there.

One of the best things to do in the village is to visit Dragør Old Town. This area has narrow cobblestone streets lined with pastel painted houses built in the 1700s. As you walk along the streets, make your way to the promenade near the sea. Here you’ll be able to see the Amager coast and get a view of the Oresund Bridge which connects Copenhagen to Malmo, Sweden. Nearby, you’ll also find Dragør Fort. Built in 1910, this fort has been converted into a hotel, but it’s open to the public and you can climb to the top to see the views.

Despite being a small village, you’ll find lots of museums in Dragør. Pick one or two that interest you to visit. The Pilot Museum is one of the most popular museums and houses exhibits showcasing 400 years of piloting history. The Dragør Museum has exhibits on the history of seafaring. And, the Mølsted Museum is a small museum showcasing art by marine painter Christian Mølsted, a local artist who lived from 1860 to 1930.

If you would like to explore the beaches, MorMor Beach has beautiful views of the Oresund bridge. It’s also a good location for families to visit. Dragør South Beach is another favorite beach. You can take a walk along the paths or swim in the clear waters. You might even spot some seals.

Where to eat in Dragør?

• Try out Cafe Espersen for traditional Danish dishes. During the summer, it’s especially nice to enjoy the view of the harbor while eating fresh seafood and sipping a glass of cold rosé.
• Another good option is Cafe Sylten . This cozy restaurant located right by the sea is the perfect place to enjoy the brunch buffet offered every weekend.

Travel time: 3 hours by train from Copenhagen Central Station.

Aarhus is Denmark’s second-largest city. This beautiful Danish city is located by the sea on Denmark’s northeast coast. While you could fly from Copenhagen to Aarhus, taking the train is more enjoyable. While Aarhus is sometimes overshadowed by the capital city, Aarhus is quickly gaining attention thanks to its amazing restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and architectural landmarks. Escape from the crowds and enjoy your time in Aarhus.

How to get to Aarhus?

Take a train from Copenhagen Central Station to Aarhus. Ticket prices range from 100-400kr ($10-40 USD) one-way depending on your departure time. You can book tickets online, and view the train timetable on the official Danish railway website.

What to do and see in Aarhus, day 1?

Den Gamle By – Google Maps Link

On your first day in Aarhus, spend your time learning about the area’s history and visit a few of the city’s neighborhoods. One of the biggest attraction in the city is Den Gamle By (The Old Town). This open-air museum contains authentic Danish building relocated to the museum from all over the country. It is set up to recreate Danish neighborhoods from 1927 and 1974. There are also museums and galleries located in some of the buildings. You could easily spend half the day wandering around this unique open-air museum.

Latin Quarter – Google Maps Link

While in Aarhus, be sure to visit the Latin Quarter, an area full of colorful houses, hip cafes, trendy boutiques, and art galleries. You’ll also find several medieval churches in this area. Trinitatis Kirke was built during the 17th century, and Vor Frue Kirke has the oldest bells in Denmark.

The most popular place to be in the Latin Quarter is Pustervig Torv Square. Here you’ll find unique boutiques and art galleries located all around the square. In the evening, stop by Mig og Ølsnedkeren in the Latin Quarter to try out the microbrews on tap.

Where to eat in Aarhus, day 1?

Aarhus has a growing culinary scene and has won awards for its gourmet dining options.

• For a nice Italian, check out Grappa Aps , located in the heart of Aarhus.
• For an elegant meal, head to L’Estragon . You find seasonal plates made from organic ingredients.
• If you’re interested in having seafood, Oli Nico is the place to go. The restaurant feels like a cross between a British fish and chip shop and a French bistro.

Where to stay in Aarhus?

• $$$ – Villa Provence Hotel
• $$ – Hotel Oasia
• $ – Cabinn Aarhus Hotel

Prepare to make the most of your final day in Denmark. Finish up your weeklong trip with a few Aarhus’s popular attractions. Today, you’ll visit several museums, walk through beautiful gardens, explore the marina, and, of course, enjoy delicious cuisine. It’s no wonder that Aarhus was named one of the European Capitals of Culture several years ago.

What to do and see in Aarhus, day 2?

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum – Google Maps Link

Aarhus has several world-class museums. The ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is a must-visit. With 9 floors of exhibitions, it’s one of the largest museums in Northern Europe. It’s most famous exhibit is the rainbow panorama, a glass walkway on the museum’s rooftop.

Moesgaard Museum – Google Maps Link

Another good museum to visit is the Moesgaard Museum. This museum is dedicated to archaeology and ethnography.

Aarhus Botanic Garden – Google Maps Link

While in Aarhus, make sure to visit the Botanic Garden. It’s one of the largest parks in the city, and it’s the perfect place to spend the afternoon exploring the grounds. The park also has a tropical house with four different climate zones. One of the zones even has a large treehouse. The Botanic Garden is worth visiting yearround. 

Aarhus Yacht Marina – Google Maps Link

Another popular place to visit is the Aarhus yacht marina (Aarhus Lystbådehavn). You can rent a paddle board and wetsuit to get out on the water. Even if you’re not interested in paddle boarding, it’s a lot of fun to walk through the marina and see the beautiful sail boats. Make a stop at the Harbor Bath while you’re there. The complex is made up of a swimming pool, a diving pool, children’s pools, and two saunas. 

Where to eat in Aarhus, day 2?

• Enjoy some baked goods first thing in the morning at Langenæs Bageriet .
• If you want to have brunch try out Globen Flakket for a cozy meal next to the canal.
• Or try out one of the city’s trendy modern restaurants: At Spiselauget , you can enjoy delicious gastropub-inspired food made with local seasonal ingredients.

After visiting Aarhus you can either continue your travels from there, or catch a train/flight back to Copenhagen to return home.

Now that you know what to do during your visit to Denmark, here are a few tips to make your trip go smoothly.

• No matter what season you’re visiting, pack clothes you can layer.
• Getting a city card in Copenhagen can help reduce the amount of money you spend during your trip.
• Danes are courteous and follow rules. They expect the same from visitors as well.

The best time to visit Denmark:

The best time to visit Denmark is during the summer months: June, July, and August. The daylight hours are the longest during these months and the weather is just warm enough to be pleasant while exploring.

With this being said, any time of year is good to go if you’re prepared to dress for it. I have been in the depths of winter before and loved it! Hygge is a concept from Denmark afterall!

What is the currency of Denmark?

The currency of Denmark is the Danish Krone (kr)

Can you drink tap water in Denmark?

Tap water in Denmark is safe to drink. Denmark works hard to protect their groundwater from contamination and pollution. As a result, the water in the country is some of the cleanest water possible. Most people also find that the water tastes good straight from the tap.

The language of Denmark:

Danish is the official language of Denmark. Many people in Denmark speak English, and you’ll also find German or French on road signs.

Here are a few basic expressions in Danish that are nice to know when traveling in Denmark.

Goddag – Good day

Hej – Hello

Farvel – Goodbye

Ja – Yes

Nej – No

Tak – Thank you

Undskyld – Excuse me

Is Denmark safe?

Denmark is ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rates in Denmark are relatively low, and the risk for the usual dangers travelers tend to face is low as well. Still, you should use common sense and remain alert in any situation you find yourself in.

All that’s left to do is to pack your bags and head to Denmark. There are so many interesting and beautiful sites to see in Denmark, but you’ll be able to enjoy a few of the best things the country has to offer during your weeklong visit.

As you plan your visit, make sure to take a look at all of our guides to Denmark . If you’re planning to visit other Scandinavian countries, we also have guides to Norway , Sweden , and Finland .

If you have any comments on the itinerary or have any suggestions, please be sure to leave me a comment! And, most importantly, stay Earth Curious!

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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

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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.

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

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.

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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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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Top 6 Denmark Vacation Ideas to Know for a Practical Travel

Here are the top six Denmark vacation ideas every traveler should know for a fun-filled and more meaningful experience.

Denmark is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the world, owing to its wide array of attractions. Because of its relatively small size, it’s easy and convenient to get across its different towns and cities while exploring what it has to offer.

Visitors will not face disappointment, especially when they’re chasing authentic cuisines, stunning castles and palaces, impressive art galleries and museums, distinct architecture, and innovative fashion . The country rolls into one every fun-filled experience one can think of.

One of Denmark’s greatest charms is its interesting concept of Hugge, which refers to the searching for a comfortable and cozy moment to relish in your typical routine.

Visitors will surely look forward to experiencing this warm practice of the Danish people.

Now, here are other vacation ideas to consider when visiting the country.

Table of Contents

1. Ride a Bicycle across Denmark

One of the best activities to do in Denmark is biking. It is one of the world’s most cycle-friendly countries, and almost all Danes of all ages know or have experienced riding a bike.

The country has invested in setting up elaborate biking networks and infrastructures. It’s easy to go around Denmark’s towns and cities with a bike while exploring the views and attractions.

There are also specifically-designed cycle bridges, and along the way, visitors can try refreshments or interact with fellow bikers. The country has almost 12,000 kilometers of cycle routes with clear signs from one important spot to another.

Denmark’s capital of Copenhagen is also listed as the most bike-friendly city in the world as it has more than 675 000 bikes! In contrast, there are only 120 000 cars in the city.

Biking across Denmark will give you a feel of its varied landscapes and views. From one end, visitors can navigate pristine forests and verdant grasslands. On the other end, they can cycle on sandy beaches with captivating ocean views.

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Denmark

2. Eat and drink like the locals

Every experience is worth a cultural touch when done the way locals do it. That applies to eating and drinking, which are among the favorite pastime of the Danes.

Visitors can join them and have a feel what it’s like to be a Dane and appreciate the beauty of the local culture. That’s also one way of building a better rapport with them.

The Danish culinary scene has been seeing many innovations though much of its traditional features remain at the core. It comes with a lot of molecular gastronomy, fusion cooking, and interesting mixing with the New Danish Cuisine philosophy.

There are now several Michelin starred restaurants serving various modern renditions of Denmark’s Scandinavian cuisine. One of which is Noma restaurant, known for its word-class serving in the most Danish setting.

Eating in Denmark also reflects the Danish way of life since most of the ingredients or materials used are sourced locally. The people take pride in what they produce, ensuring the sustainability and continued productivity of the local economy.

Visitors dining on authentic Danish restaurants likewise contribute to community-based development and sustainability.

That also applies to drinking in Denmark. Most wines and beers are produced from locally-produced ingredients.

3. Don’t miss the art galleries and museums

Denmark has some of the best museums and art galleries in the world, so it’s a wise idea if visitors will check out some or most of these. Among the most popular options are The National Gallery of Denmark, ARoS Aarhus Art Museum , Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Thorvaldsens Museum, and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

Not only will tourists glimpse the best arts and creations of the Danish people but also have a deeper understanding of their way of life. Many of these museums also showcase the nation’s rich history, from their founding by the Vikings to the wars and to the modern era.

The museums are mostly within walking distance from the city proper so visitors can access them easily. Most offer guided tours, and some have no registration fees. What a way to learn about a country’s rich culture and history without spending a dime!

4. Explore the off-beaten destinations

Many of the iconic destinations in Denmark are so popular that they usually welcome hundreds to thousands of visitors a day. Thankfully, there are options that are less known but offer the same quality experience or even better.

Check out the long sandy beaches at the Jutland peninsula, for example. Even during summer , the beaches here are mostly devoid of people as most locals prefer to travel outside the country.

Travelers who are not into touristy destinations will find these as a paradise, an ideal getaway for reflection and introspection.

Visiting the off-beaten destinations will lead tourists to a deeper understanding of the rural life of Denmark. Many communities offer experiences that one can’t find in the urbanized areas. Laid-back options also tend to be cheaper and provide more meaningful experiences.

5. Ride the wave of Danish fashion trends

This idea may come as a total surprise for many. But that’s something that the country is also little known about. In fact, Denmark is at the forefront of classy and trendy brands, accessories, and fashion.

More and more brands and designers are joining the rapidly-growing Danish fashion scene with key players from different countries.

Among the popular fashion labels in Denmark are Bruuns Bazaar, Munthe, Mads Norgaard, and Day Birger et Mikkelsen. Because the country is known for its wonderful designs and quality products, shopping is becoming a popular tourism activity.

One ideal spot for shopping is Bredgade, which hosts a variety of art, furniture, and antiques. Then there is the Latin Quarter, which features up-coming, underground, and Avant-grande fashion labels.

For those chasing luxurious brands and high-end stores, check out Stroget and Kronprinsesgade.

6. Try learning and speaking the local language

Travel is more meaningful when there is a connection or genuine rapport built with the locals. What better way of doing that than learning the local language and using it during interactions with them. But here is the thing.

Visitors don’t have to know every term or statement. They can just learn some of the most common expressions used by the Danes.

When you speak the local language, except that the locals will find it easier to connect with you. In many cases, visitors speaking foreign languages can shy away from the locals from conversations. Thus, it helps to kick off with local utterances. Try Googling translations of these common expressions and practice before setting off to the country.

There you have it. Those are just some of the vacation ideas you can try to have more meaningful travel experience in Denmark. Not only will you better appreciate the attractions but also have a deeper understanding of the country’s rich history and culture.

Moreover, you can build a stronger rapport with the locals and have a feel of what it really means to be a local tourist.

→ Check out these activities in Denmark 

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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The small town and fishing port Gudhjem is a highlights of Denmark's Bornholm Island.

Scandinavians don’t always need to board charter flights to enjoy a summer beach vacation. In fact, they don’t even need a car. Known as the sunshine island, Bornholm invites visitors to experience its beautiful beaches and rustic villages for an authentic Scandinavian summer vacation.

Accessible by ferry or fast catamaran from Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, this Baltic Sea island boasts an efficient network of cycle lanes and buses, making it possible to traverse its scenic routes without a vehicle.

Although off-the-radar to many international tourists, Bornholm is known among Scandinavians as one of the best places to visit in Denmark .

So much so, that Bornholm was crowned Denmark’s favorite domestic vacation destination in the most recent Danish Travel Awards for the second consecutive year. Votes are compiled by an independent research company from a panel of frequent travelers and industry experts.

Whether it’s cycling along coastal paths, sampling gourmet seafood in a charming village, or relaxing on pristine beaches, Bornholm offers family-friendly attractions a world away from the busy cities of Scandinavia.

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‘challengers’ reviews: does zendaya tennis movie score with critics, patriots select north carolina quarterback drake maye with no 3 pick in nfl draft, arrival in rønne.

Home to 13,000 residents, Rønne is the largest town on Bornholm and the arrival point for all the ferries. But those traveling without a car needn't restrict their trip to the town.

Upon arriving in Rønne, you can access convenient bus services provided by BAT . Buses connect the harbor to major towns and summer cottage areas, coordinating their schedules with ferry arrivals and departures.

You can board or alight the district buses at almost any point along the main roads; simply signal the driver clearly.

The cobbled streets of Bornholm’s oldest part are well worth a wander.

Before moving on from Rønne, it’s worth spending some time exploring. The town's well-preserved architecture, dating back to the 1800s, lines quaint cobblestone streets, inviting visitors to slow down.

Key sights include the Rønne Theater, one of the oldest in Denmark, and several local museums that delve into the island's maritime and wartime past.

Bornholm’s Historic Sites

For history enthusiasts, the medieval fortress of Hammershus provides insights into Denmark's past. Located on the northern tip of Bornholm, Hammershus is the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe and dates back to the 13th century.

It offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture and the island's strategic importance through centuries of conflict.

Visitors can explore the extensive ruins, which include massive walls and towers overlooking the Baltic Sea, and a visitor center with exhibits detailing the castle's history and the region's cultural heritage.

Østerlars Round Church is one of four famous round churches on the island. These circular designs were originally intended to serve a dual purpose: religious worship and defense against invaders, reflecting the turbulent times during its construction. Inside, there are ancient frescoes and a centrally placed baptismal font that dates back to the medieval period.

Beaches Of Bornholm

For beach enthusiasts, Bornholm does not disappoint. Dueodde Beach on Bornholm's southern tip is renowned for its exceptionally fine, white sand—once used in hourglasses—and expansive stretches that offer both solitude and accessibility.

The beach begins as a narrow strip by Snogebæk and widens significantly near the southern point. Clear, shallow waters near the shore deepen quickly, making it ideal for swimming.

Extensive dunes provide sheltered spots for privacy, and ramps from main parking areas make it accessible for bikes, buggies, and wheelchairs.

Dueodde, the white sandy beach on the south coast of Bornholm, Denmark.

The nearby lighthouse offers breathtaking views, enhancing Dueodde's status as a year-round destination, celebrated for its scenic beauty.

Farther to the east near the town of Nexø, Balka Beach is another popular choice among visitors to Bornholm. Known for its soft sand and shallow waters, Balka is particularly well-suited for families with small children, but keen swimmers will prefer Dueodde.

Beyond The Beaches

Svaneke, located on Bornholm's east coast, is known for its picturesque harbor that draws many visitors. Its well-preserved town center features quaint streets lined with red-roofed, yellow lime-washed, half-timbered houses.

Outdoor activities include extensive footpaths and cycle tracks, and nearby Joboland amusement park provides family entertainment with its waterpark and petting zoo.

Beyond the allure of sunshine, Svaneke and other quaint towns like Gudhjem are culinary hotspots where travelers can indulge in famed local delicacies such as smoked herring, exquisite ice creams, and locally brewed ales.

Gudhjem, in particular, is celebrated for hosting a prestigious national cooking competition, adding a flavorful layer to the island’s appeal.

The island also harbors a rich artistic identity with a creative spirit found in the various small workshops and galleries. This spirit is especially visible in Nexø, which is home to a renowned ceramics school.

How To Travel To Bornholm

For the most authentic Bornholm experience, join the Scandinavian tradition of traveling by ferry. For ferry fares, timetables, and booking, check the website of operator Bornholmslinjen .

The quickest way is to travel from Southern Sweden’s Ystad, from where several daily catamarans whisk passengers to Bornholm in just over an hour. Trains and buses are available from Copenhagen to Ystad.

A 5.5-hour night ferry operates from Køge, an hour south of Copenhagen, while a daily service also runs from Sassnitz in Germany.

It’s also possible to fly to the small airport on Bornholm, located just to the southeast of Rønne. The small Danish airline DAT operates several daily flights from Copenhagen, with less frequent services available from Aalborg and Billund.

Where To Stay on Bornholm

Although day trips to Bornholm are popular, you’ll get more out of your visit by staying at least a night to enjoy the long, summer evenings.

Bornholm features a variety of accommodation options, including the newly established Eco Beach Camp . This beachside glamping site provides a luxurious experience of waking up to the sound of the waves, with supper and breakfast included in rates.

For a more secluded stay, numerous summer houses are available for weekly rental through agencies such as Dancenter. These rentals generally require guests to bring their own essentials, including bed linen.

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• 10 Day Scandinavia Itinerary – The Perfect Norway, Sweden and Denmark Trip

Spending 10 days in Scandinavia is a trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list.  Whether you are looking for beautiful nature, charming cities, or fascinating history you will find it somewhere in this itinerary. While 10 days is not enough to see everything, especially in three countries as diverse as Sweden , Norway and Denmark, it is definitely enough to get a taste of the north. This 10 Day Scandinavia Itinerary will take you from Copenhagen in Denmark, to Stockholm and Gothenburg in Sweden, and finally Oslo in Norway, with several more nature inspired trips along the way!

With that said, let’s get started! In this itinerary for a 10-day trip to Scandinavia I will outline exactly what you should do each day, where you should travel, and the unique experiences you should try out to really get a feeling for the Nordic countries.

If you haven’t come across my blog before, I have lived in Sweden (in Gothenburg ) for almost 4 years now and have taken multiple trips to all the cities and places on this itinerary. So, rather than it being one trip I have done, it is based on all the trips I have taken so to give you the best possible 10 days in Scandinavia. I hope that this ‘locals’ knowledge will give you more of an insight into each city and help you travel more authentically. I have based this itinerary on all of my favourite things to do in each place and how I would plan it for myself if I were to do a 10 day Scandinavia trip for the first time!

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only ever promote products and brands I have used and like, and that all links are to trusted websites.

Days 1 – 2: Copenhagen

Days 3 – 5: stockholm, sweden, day 6 – 7: gothenburg, day 8: west sweden, day 9 – 10: oslo, 10 day scandinavia itinerary – oslo, gothenburg, stockholm and copenhagen, 10 day scandinavia itinerary.

Here you will find a rough outline for a 10-day Scandinavia itinerary! This trip visits 4 big cities in 3 different countries over a week and a half. I have outlined the best things to do in each city and a few possible day trips you can take if you want to get out of the city and see a bit more of each country! As I said, this Scandinavia itinerary is very city based. If you want to mix it up a little and include more Nordic Nature experiences then I can recommend reading through these posts to find some inspiration!

• West Sweden Road Trip
• Southern Norway Road Trip – Oslo to Bergen
• Places to Visit During Summer in Sweden

This 10-day Scandinavia Itinerary begins in Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark. A city on the water, Copenhagen is renowned for its beautiful old harbour Nyhavn , and the harbourside walk which takes you past the opera house and the statue of Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid . If you want a good viewpoint, don’t miss the spiral tower of Vor Frelsers Kirke . If you want to see the city from the canals, make sure to take the canal cruise which passes the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn, and the royal palaces.

Where to stay: The Square, Copenhagen

I have stayed in a few different hotels and Airbnbs in Copenhagen over the last few years and definitely had the best experience staying at The Square . This hotel is right in the center of the city, only a short walk from the central station and all the sights so it’s perfect if you just have a few days to explore and it’s your first time in Copenhagen.

Getting around Copenhagen

Copenhagen is quite a big city, and while it is definitely walkable, it can always be good to have a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket for when you want to travel larger distances. This bus stops at over 30 places, meaning you can quickly go form stop to stop and make sure you don’t miss anything! Alternatively, there is the Copenhagen city card which gives you a bus ticket and access to over 40 attractions (museums, galleries etc.).

If you are up for a little self-navigation, Copenhagen does also have a good public transport network that you just need to buy tickets for.

What to do in Copenhagen

Tivoli gardens.

Somewhere you shouldn’t miss is Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s iconic amusement park. People travel from all over Scandinavia to spend the weekend here, enjoying the rides and the atmosphere. My favourite time to visit Tivoli is during December when the park is decorated for Christmas and they have a beautiful Christmas Market. In the summer, there are a lot of different events on – and of course it is a theme park so there are a lot of rides to try! I can recommend The Demon if you just want to try one rollercoaster – it was a lot of fun!

If you are not one for rides, you can purchase a park entry ticket . This allows you to walk around the park, and you can still buy individual ride or game tickets while you are there! If you want to spend the whole day here, I recommend getting the unlimited rides pass which gives you park access and you can use the rides all day. With this ticket, you can go in and out of the park if you want to mix it in with sight-seeing.

Something to note is that the queue times in Tivoli can be quite long so if you want to experience some of the rides then plan to spend a bit of time in the area. The rides can also be quite expensive (419dkk for a day pass and 50 – 90 dkk per individual ride).

A Day Trip to Møns Klint and Forest Tower

As this is your only time in Denmark on this Scandinavia trip, I fully understand if you want to get out of the city and see a bit more of rural Denmark! One great day trip you can take is to Møns Klint , one of Denmark’s most beautiful coastlines. The stark white limestone and chalk cliffs here are so beautiful, towering over the crystal blue waters. This is definitely a once-in-a-life time experience you shouldn’t miss!

We had the best day trip here, seeing something a little different and getting a taste of “the real Denmark” rather than just seeing Copenhagen.

A Day Trip to Sweden

If you want to see even more of Scandinavia, you can take a day trip over the Öresund bridge to Malmö and Lund , two cities in the south of Sweden. They are only 40 minutes away from central Copenhagen which makes city hopping a really fun and unique experience. Malmö is the third largest city in Sweden, with a beautiful seaside, old town and lots of cosy cafes. Lund is a smaller university town, renowned for its town centre filled with old buildings and Lund cathedral.

You can either take a tour between the two cities which includes a visit to Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, otherwise known as Hamlet’s castle, a guided tour around Lund and a trip to Malmö. This is great if you want to see a few different places on one day and make the most of your trip

Otherwise you can take the train to Malmö from Copenhagen . This is the cheaper option and perhaps better if you only want to visit Malmö, not any of the other stops on the tour.

While in Malmö I recommend just spending the day walking around, trying different cafes, visiting the castle and walking along the coastline. We have spent a lot of time in Malmö over the last few years visiting friends who live there and I think what makes the city great isn’t necessarily the things that there are to see and do but the overall vibe of the city. One of my favourite things to do is head down to the Kallbadhuset for a swim (even in the winter), followed by brunch at MJ’s, a walk around Malmöhus Slott and Slottsträdgården and then fika at Lilla Kafferosteriet. For more details you can read my one day Malmö itinerary!

If you want to experience more of Southern Sweden and have a car, there are a lot of great day trips you can take from Malmö out into the countryside! Österlen is one of my absolute favourite places in Sweden and its only a few hours drive from Malmö along the south coast. Here you will find lots of farm shops and beautiful countryside cafes (Olof Victors is amazing!), as well as the stone circle Ale Stenar and the most beautiful beaches in Stenhuvuds Nature Reserve.

Alternatively, there are a lot of different castles, cafes and forests to explore within a much shorter distance (some also accessible by public transport). Make sure to read this post for a full list of Day Trips from Malmö !

Time for a change of scene – we are heading to Stockholm , the capital of Sweden on day 2 of this Scandinavia itinerary! In this section I have outlined a few things to see and do in Stockholm and some day trips you can make. If you want more details, with restaurant recommendations etc. then make sure to read my guide to one day in Stockholm or 3 days in Stockholm .

Where to stay: Downtown Camper

When it comes to hotels in Stockholm, my personal favourite is Downtown Camper by Scandic. It is located very centrally – just a few minutes walk to the central station, Gamla Stan, and Drottningsgatan – and from the rooms there are amazing views over the cities. Below in the picture you can see the cosy single room perfect for a solo traveller! The best thing about Downtown Camper is The Nest, the spa and bar on the top floor with views out over the whole of Stockholm. Every day, they hold different activities in the bar area including yoga classes and a knkitting circle! This is the most fun and lively hotel, but also luxury feeling. You can book it here !

A Budget Option: Generator Stockholm

Generator Stockholm is my favourite budget place to stay when I visit the city. I have stayed here 5+ times over the years and always recommend it to others! It is a hostel, meaning that it is a much more budget friendly option. However, it is not dissimilar to a hotel – with private rooms, private bathrooms available. It is super fresh and has a really nice common area in the lobby where they often hold events like trivia! It is definitely family and solo traveller friendly which is another reason I like to recommend it! Book it here !

See more: Find all your Stockholm accomodation options here

How to get from Copenhagen to Stockholm

The trip from Copenhagen to Stockholm covers quite a long distance, and as such the best way to take the trip is by train. The train journey is so beautiful as it travels through the Swedish countryside. The trip takes 5 to 6 hours but luckily is direct! There are a few different companies that run trains for this trip so you can find the best option here!

Things to See and Do in Stockholm

Stockholm is a city with so much to see and do, three days will never give it justice! However, there are definitely some things you shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first visit to the city. For a more detailed itinerary you can read my Stockholm One Day or Three Day Itinerary !

While you are in Stockholm make sure to wander down to Gamla Stan! This is the old part of Stockholm – An island made up of narrow streets, all lined with colourful stone houses dating back to the 17 th and 18 th centuries. In Gamla Stan you will find Stortorget, the main square where you will likely recognise the iconic view four colourful houses in a row. If you fancy a fika (a classic Swedish coffee pause) head to the old café Grillska huset – a locals’ favourite. Another spot you shouldn’t miss is Västerlånggatan; a long and narrow street lined with boutique shops and little cafes. To either side, there are alleyways running up and down the hill, often with cosy little shops hidden away inside.

No matter how many times I have been to Stockholm, Gamla Stan is still the first place I visit. I will never get tired of the picturesque alleyways and colourful buildings. I personally think that the best time to visit is in the morning (before 10 when most shops open) as here you will see the streets almost empty. If you visit later in the day, Stortorget and all of the bigger roads are often crammed with people – especially during the summer or around Christmas! My favourite street is Trädgårdsgatan which is just off of Stortorget. In the autumn, theres a beautiful tree in the middle of the alley which just lights up the orange walls.

There are loads of great museums to visit in Stockholm. If you are an ABBA fan, you can’t miss the ABBA museum ! It is so much fun, with interactive displays, photo opportunities, replicas of different props, recording studios and lots of interesting facts you probably didn’t know about the band! The museum is very interactive so expect to find yourself in a recording booth singing along to the songs, or dancing alongside holograms on the big stage. I have been to the ABBA museum 3 times in total and never get sick of it – especially with the alternating exhibitions that take place in the foyer. Mamma Mia the film, ABBAs tour costumes, and Eurovision have been the three that I have been lucky enough to visit!

If you want something a bit more historic, you have to visit the Vasa Museum ! The Vasa is the world’s only well-preserved 17 th century wooden boat – one which sunk in Stockholm harbour immediately after it first set sail in 1628. This is one of the best museums I have ever been to and would go back in the blink of an eye. It is amazing how intact the boat still is, and a great opportunity to learn about “Sveriges Stormakstid” (The Swedish Empire), an extremely interesting era of Swedish history that you don’t hear much about otherwise.

There is also Skansen, the open-air museum/ zoo with lots of classic Swedish wooden houses to explore! You could spend hours here wandering around the different plots. I remember walking around thinking that a visit to Skansen is very much like a trip around Sweden – with the classic farmhouse you see in Skåne , to the Sami village from Abisko , and wooden village of places like Eksjö.

If you are in to art then you won’t want to miss the Photography museum – or the Nobel Prize Museum for something a bit more unique.

If you are interested in visiting several museums or attractions during your visit, it could be worth getting the Stockholm city card which includes lots of different tours, museums, and even adventures out into the archipelago!

As I said before, there are so many different things to see and do in Stockholm! So make sure to read this guide with all my recommendations!

Getting around Stockholm

Stockholm is also a very walkable city however it is also a big city and you will likely want to use the public transport system at some point! There are buses and an underground that you can take all around the city. Tickets can be bought in advance , or you can just tap your card on entry to the station. The same goes for trams and buses – you can either download the app and buy a ticket or you can tap your card when the guard comes through the tram. I recommend buying a ticket in advance though if you can – you only need to purchase the ticket just before hopping onto the bus, tram or metro and it just keeps you safe from getting a fine. They can be quite harsh with public transport fines in Sweden so it is good to be on the safe side.

A Day Trip into the Stockholm Archipelago

One of the best day trips you can take in Stockholm is a trip out into the archipelago! There are a few different ways you can do this depending on how you want to spend the day!

Firstly, you can take a guided tour on a sight-seeing boat . This is only a 2.5 hour tour which is perfect if you just want to take a quick trip out to see the archipelago, spending the rest of the day in the city. The tour doesn’t stop at any of the islands, but it is a great way to see the archipelago from the water! I have done this trip in both the summer and winter and think both experiences were amazing. Not only do you get to see a different side of Stockholm but you get to learn about the different islands that make up the city. The tour guide was also great, talking us through everything we saw along the route.

Secondly, you can take a kayaking tour around the archipelago . This is a much more active way to see the archipelago, paddling through the islands and stopping at a few different places throughout the day. This tour includes all the equipment, drinks and snacks so is the perfect day trip! The East Coast of Sweden is so special, with over 14,000 tree covered islands, its a really unique experience to kayak here.

Thirdly, you can take a sailing trip . This is my personal favourite way to see the archipelago – there is nothing like exploring the water on a small boat, stopping at different islands and beautiful swimming spots throughout the day. This trip is a more expensive way to see the archipelago but is definitely a once in a lifetime experience!

Lastly, you can also visit the islands in the archipelago using ferries. One of the more popular islands to visit is Vaxholm where you will find the historic Vaxholm Kastell, Bogesund Castle, lots of nice restaurants and swimming spots. You can find information about booking tickets and planning your trip here !

Today we will be travelling from Stockholm to Gothenburg , the second largest city in Sweden. Located on the west coast, it is renowned for its slower lifestyle, cosy cafes and beautiful archipelago ! The few days spent in West Sweden is a highlight of this trip, with little fishing villages and beautiful islands to explore. I am a little bit biased when it comes to the West Coast, having lived here for almost 4 years now and spending my weekends exploring the towns along the way, I think it is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Sweden. What makes it so unique is all the fishing villages – places like Smögen or Fiskebäckskil that have houses so tightly woven it feels almost like a film set when you are walking through them. Unfortunately, there is no way you can visit everything that makes the West Coast great in just a few days so I would actually recommend either spending a few more days here, or considering a future trip back to see it all! I have loads of guides on my site to help you plan! Otherwise you can get my West Sweden Map with over 300 locations plotted out along the coast!

Where to stay: Clarion Hotel Post

The Clarion Hotel Post is quite a big hotel in Gothenburg’s old postal building. It’s a beautiful hotel located really centrally. The newly built glass tower with a rooftop pool has an amazing view over the city, and the lobby bar is one of the best places for a drink! You can read about our stay or book it here !

Where to stay: Linnéplatsens Hotell & Vandrarhem

If you want something slightly more affordable then I definitely recommend Linnéplatsens Hotell & Vandrarhem! This is a hostel with shared bathrooms, but the rooms are super fresh, and it is located very centrally, just by Linnéplatsen and Slottskogen, Gothenburg’s big park. This hotel is a bit further away from the central station but there are many trams and buses that travel this 10-minute journey, so it is still very easy to get back and forth. Find out more here!

How to Get From Stockholm to Gothenburg

The best way to travel from Stockholm to Gothenburg is by train. There are several different companies that run trains between the two cities (SJ, MTRX, FlixTrain) and it is one of the most popular routes in Sweden to travel! It’s comparing them to get the best price as the services are quite similar. You can that do here !

Things to See and Do in Gothenburg

Gothenburg is a much slower paced city than the others you will visit on this trip. What makes it such a special place is not all the sights, but the atmosphere, all the cosy cafes, the old houses and the nice parks.

If you want all my tips, you can find them on either my guide to spending one day in Gothenburg or my 2 – 4 day itinerary !

Make sure to visit the district of Haga, an older part of the city renowned for its cosy cafes and nice shops. It is here in Café Husaren where you will find the giant cinnamon buns Gothenburg is famous for. For a good view, walk up to Skansen Kronan, the old fortress on the hill behind Haga. If you want something a little more adventurous, visit Liseberg amusement park. I 100% recommend this if you are visiting Gothenburg in the autumn or in around Christmas time ).

When it comes to food, make sure to wander through the food market Saluhall, or take the free ferry over to Lindholmen Street Food Market if you are visiting on a Saturday. Make sure to also stop by the courtyard on Magasinsgatan where you will find local coffee roastery Da Matteo, and several food trucks set up outside. This is somewhere locals flock on a sunny day as it is protected from the wind in all directions.

For something a bit different you can also take a tour along the canal with Paddan , the canal boat, or take a city tour on the Amphibious land and water bus .  

Getting around Gothenburg

Gothenburg is a small city and very much walkable, however, you may find you will want to use public transport if you are heading out on a day trip. This is great in Gothenburg – There are trams, buses, and ferries which will take you anywhere you want to go. The best way to buy a ticket is to download the Västtrafik app where you can purchase either a single ticket (90 minutes) or a day ticket. Depending how often you will be travelling the single ticket can work out better as when you buy 4 you get a 20% discount on your 5 th .

If you are staying in Gothenburg, you will only need a zone A ticket. Just in case though, it’s best to check your route on the app where they will suggest the ticket you need.

Alternatively, if you can’t or don’t want to be walking too much, you can take the hop-on-hop off bus around the city. This stops at 8 different places around the city and makes it very easy to get to exactly where you want to go. There is also a hop-on-hop-off boat and bus trip which includes 5 boat stops around the city. This is a super fun way to explore Gothenburg by the waterways and it takes you to some very interesting places.

A Day Trip into The Archipelago

There is nothing I can recommend more when visiting Gothenburg than a day trip out into the archipelago. These islands are so unique and have some a beautiful atmosphere that it really gives an insight into Swedish life, especially in the summer. There are a few different ways to explore the archipelago. You can find more tips and information about all the islands in Gothenburg archipelago guide !

The first is to take a guided tour of the Southern archipelago on a beautiful old-timey boat. This trip leaves from the centre of Gothenburg (Lilla Bommen) so takes a really unique route out to the islands where you get an up-close view of the active harbour and the old Älvsborg Fortress. This tour does not stop on any of the islands though. A good mix if you still wanted to take the boat tour and also visit an island is the trip out to Vinga Lighthouse . This is one of the best day trips we have ever done from Gothenburg and I definitely recommend it! The island is the most westerly in the archipelago and has played quite a big role over the years in protection and sea rescue. If you want to know more, here you can read all about our trip to Vinga Fyr and Island .

The other option is to take the public ferry out to one of the islands. In the Northern archipelago, the most popular island to visit is Hönö . This is a lively island all year round, with beautiful nature reserves, sandy beaches and the town of Hönö Klåva. However, to get here is a little more difficult as you must first take a bus to Lilla Varholmen and then the ferry over to the island. Hönö is best explored by car or bike as the buses here are quite irregular.

The Southern Archipelago

In the southern archipelago, I recommend visiting Styrsö or Vrångö . These are car-free islands where it is possible to explore solely by foot. Styrsö is best if you want to visit somewhere with a summer resort type vibe. There is a nice café, swim spots and pretty houses to wander around. Vrångö is best if you want more nature, with beautiful sandy beaches and nature reserves to explore.

To get to both of these islands you will need to catch the ferry from Saltholmen. To get here you can catch the number 11 from the city. The ticket out to the island is the same zone A ticket you buy to travel elsewhere around Gothenburg.

Today, if the weather is looking good, it’s time to head out of the city and to some smaller villages for the day! West Sweden is renowned for its beautiful little fishing villages such as Smögen or Fiskebäckskil. Most places are accessible by public transport and you can find the routes on the same Västtrafik app . Some tips for destinations are:

• Marstrand – A summer island with an old fortress and walking paths
• Åstol – A very picturesque island close to Gothenburg
• Dyrön – Hire a sauna or walk around the unique nature reserve
• Smögen – A small town with amazing swimming spots and a colourful harbour
• Käringön – A lively island with beautiful beaches and great restaurants
• Orust – A bigger island with lots of small towns and farm shops
• Koster Havet – A marine nature reserve with amazing snorkelling opportunities

Tip: If you want to extend your trip, you could add a week in West Sweden. Read my West Sweden Road Trip Guide for inspiration!

• West Sweden Map

Get 300+ tips on West Sweden

In this map and guide to West Sweden you will find over 300 tips for places to visit in and around the region. These are places I have visited and personally recommend – some hidden gems and a few more well known spots!

Day 9 we are moving onto Oslo for the final stage of this 10-day Scandinavia trip itinerary. Oslo is the capital city of Norway, known for its beautiful architecture, great museums and harbour. In this section I have included the basics, but if you want a more detailed guide, make sure to read my itinerary for 2 Days in Oslo .

Where to stay: Att Revier

This hotel is perfectly located when you only have 2 days in Oslo. It is only a 5-minute walk from the central station, the main street, and the opera house and harbour. The atmosphere is really calm and relaxed, with a lobby but also self-check in. The in-house restaurants are also some of the best in the city! Find out more here.

See more: Find all your Oslo accomodation options here!

How to get from Gothenburg to Oslo

The best way to get from Gothenburg to Oslo is by bus. There are a few companies that run the buses (Vy and occasionally Flixbus) – so you can compare them and find the best option here . The trip takes around 3.5 hours in total. I recommend taking a relatively early bus, so you have as much time in possible as Oslo.

Things to See and Do in Oslo

Start off your time in Oslo with a visit to the Opera house. This architectural wonder sits at the edge of the water, with glass pained walls and a rooftop that you can walk on. From the roof, there is an amazing view over the city! Be careful if you are visiting Oslo in winter as it can get really slippery here! From the opera house, you can head down to the waterfront saunas and enjoy a dip in the sea. This is a must in Oslo! There are both public and private saunas you can hire out, so it is very much budget friendly no matter which type of traveller you are.

Another great thing to do in Oslo is visit one of the many museums. A few favourites of mine were the Munch Museum , dedicated to painter of “The Scream” Edvard Munch, or the Norwegian Folk Museum where they have lots of old houses, a stave church and displays on Norwegian history. This was where one of my favourite Oslo Christmas Markets was when we visited in late November. Lastly, we really loved Akershus Castle and the Norwegian Defence Museum. This was probably the highlight of the trip. I won’t add to many more details here but you can find out everything about Oslo in this 2 day Itinerary !

If you are thinking of going to multiple museums, it can be worth purchasing the Oslo City Card . This gives you access to most museums and also includes public transport!

If you feel like a day trip, you can head out into the Oslo Fjord for some island hopping or on a guided cruise on a sailing boat . I know I have recommended trips out to islands in the archipelagos of so many places on this trip – but it is the proximity to the water and these islands that brings so much to each city!

For more tips make sure to read these guides:

• Visiting Oslo in Winter
• Itinerary for Two Days in Oslo

Getting Around Oslo

Travelling around Oslo is easy with the bus system. You can either buy single tickets or a day ticket and you can find the timetable here. Alternatively, you can take the hop-on-hop-off bus which stops at 11 different places around the city, including many different museums, the royal palace and the opera house.

10 days in Scandinavia – 3 countries, 4 cities, and hopefully too many memories to count. This trip to Sweden , Denmark, and Norway gives a little taste of Scandinavia will hopefully inspire you to come back and explore more of each country. The mix of cities and day trips gives the itinerary a bit of a balance the bustling city life and the beauty of Scandinavian nature. As always, leave any questions in the comments and enjoy your trip!

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7 Amazing Scandinavia Tour Ideas for First-Time Visitors

Have you always been intrigued by Scandinavia? Once the home of Vikings, it is now renowned for its sleek design, hygge and fika lifestyle, and jaw-dropping natural scenery. There’s much to be inspired by!

If you’re looking for a real adventure with a dash of sophistication, set your sights on a tour of the Scandinavian countries .

What countries make up Scandinavia? First things first, Norway , Sweden and Denmark are the 3 kingdoms that compose the region. Nowadays a looser interpretation is closer to the Nordic region, also including  Finland and Iceland .

You’ll find that some tours also include famed Baltic cities, like Tallinn in Estonia, for an even grander itinerary.

The best thing about exploring Scandinavia is that the possibilities are endless. You could cruise the fjords, see polar bears in the wild, and go cross-country skiing or hiking high into the mountains.

Not sure where to start? We’ve put together this handy guide to help you plan your dream Scandinavian getaway, whether you’re looking for summer fun, an Arctic experience, or a city getaway.

• Start planning your adventure with one of these Scandinavian tour packages

Best tour ideas:

• Tour the Scandinavian capitals
• Cruise around Scandinavia and the Baltics
• Head into the Arctic Circle in winter
• Take the wheel of a Scandinavian road trip
• Chase the northern lights in Scandinavia
• Explore Norway onboard iconic train journeys
• Go on a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise

1. Tour the Scandinavian capitals

Best Scandinavian tour for:  a city break and taste of each country.

A tour of Scandinavia’s capital cities is ideal for those craving some cosmopolitan glamour,  hygge  and fika , and stellar historical attractions. 

Between planning for Sweden, Denmark and Norway, you could spend lots of time trying to sort logistics to get from place to place. Instead we suggest a guided tour of Scandinavia, with a pre-arranged itinerary covering the must-see attractions and a tour leader so you can soak in all the local history.

Travel this way and you'll benefit from meeting like-minded travellers. You'll also have the peace of mind that your accommodation, transport, activities, and some meals are included in your tour. 

• Check out these guided small group tours of Scandinavia
• Related:  7 brilliant reasons to go on a European group tour

What is the best itinerary for a tour of the Scandinavian capitals?

Day 1:  Start in Sweden's capital, Stockholm, and explore the city centre. Why not wander along the shopping street Drottninggatan and dine in the district of Östermalm?

Day 2:  Today, explore Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan) and find your way through the colourful buildings to the Royal Palace, the Stockholm Cathedral and the Nobel Museum.

Day 3:  Next, board a train to Denmark's capital, Copenhagen. This is an easy half-day ride across the forests and fields of Sweden. You’ll arrive with enough time in the afternoon to enjoy visiting attractions like the Amalienborg Palace.

Day 4:  Get to grips with Copenhagen’s charms on a tour with a local guide. You'll check out the  Tivoli Gardens amusement park and go on a canal cruise to the impressive Christiansborg Palace. If you’re a foodie, don't miss a stop at the Torvehallerne food market.

Day 5:  Spend your morning in Copenhagen enjoying the photogenic Nyhavn harbour, then head over to snap a pic of the fairytale heroine and icon of the city: The Little Mermaid. Later, board your ship as you’re off to Oslo, Norway's capital.

• Visit the capital cities with one of these Scandinavian Triangle packages
• Related:  Ultimate Scandinavia guide – The best times and places to visit

Day 6: Once in Oslo , tour the top attractions like the Royal Palace and Akershus fortress . 

Day 7:  A week in, and you should be ready for what is considered to be one of the best train journeys in the world: Oslo to Flåm. Along the Flåm Railway , you will be taken through Norway’s mountainous region.

Day 8:  From Flåm , you will bear witness to the majesty of Norway’s fjords by sailing along Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord , the narrowest fjord in the world. In the evening, hop on a train to Bergen.

Day 9:  Whilst Bergen is not as famous as the capitals of this list, it is a stunning city worth the detour. It makes for a perfect day of exploring thanks to its mountainous surroundings and UNESCO-listed medieval wharf, Bryggen .

Day 10:  Explore more of Bergen before flying home. You could take the funicular railway to Mount Fløyen for an incredible view of Bergen’s surrounding fjords, and then maybe take in the bustling Fish Market.

2. Cruise around Scandinavia and the Baltics

Best Scandinavian tour for:  a multi-country cruise adventure and taste of the Baltics.

The Baltic Sea is inextricably tied to Scandinavia, and some of the most magnificent cities in Northern Europe perch on its shores. Enjoy the grand Baltic capitals of Helsinki and Tallinn, before seeing the dramatic beauty of Norway, Sweden and Denmark by train and ferry.

This kind of itinerary is ideal for anyone curious to see both the eastern and western sides of Scandinavia. Make this journey on your own, to enjoy extra free time, or join an escorted tour of the region to see the sights from a local's point of view.

• Travel on one of these cruise tours in Scandinavia
• View independent tours in Scandinavia to travel at your own pace

What is the best itinerary for a tour of Scandinavia and the Baltics?

Day 1:  Start in Finland’s lovely Helsinki, and explore the city solo. Go to the Helsinki Design District for some stylish shopping, and then try contemporary Scandinavian-Finnish cuisine at one of the many restaurants.

Day 2:  Tour Helsinki’s many attractions today, such as Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral and Finlandia Hall. Don't miss the Kauppatori central market for souvenirs and fresh food.

Day 3:  Board a ferry to Estonia’s gorgeous capital city, Tallinn. Take in the UNESCO-listed Old Town before strolling to the Upper Town (Toompea). Here you can visit Toompea Castle and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Day 4:  Make the most of your morning in Tallinn by wandering through the Russian-influenced Kadriorg district. Later, board an overnight cruise to Stockholm. Sweden is up next!

• Related:  A little something about Tallinn

Day 5:  When you wake up, you’ll be sailing through the 24,000 islands and islets that make up the Stockholm archipelago. By mid-morning you’ll be in the city, where you can relax or have a day of exploration.

Day 6:  Dive into Stockholm’s contemporary side and historic district for a full glance at the city. Incorporate a side-trip to Djurgården to see the extraordinary Vasa Museum.

Day 7:  Hop on a train from Stockholm to Copenhagen and enjoy the southern landscapes of Sweden on your way. On arrival, check out the palaces and canals of the Danish capital.

Day 8:  Discover Copenhagen’s romantic Rosenborg Castle and colourful Botanical Garden. With a whole day to sightsee, you can probably fit in an afternoon trip to Christiansborg Palace.

Day 9:  Catch sight of The Little Mermaid poking her head above Copenhagen’s shores and spend a little more time wandering along Nyhavn harbour. At the end of the day, leave behind the fairy tales of Denmark and set sail for the home of Norse legends, Norway.

Day 10:  Step onto Oslo’s cobbled streets for your first taste of Norwegian culture and history. Explore Akershus fortress and the fascinating Vigeland Sculpture Park .

• Learn more on one of these culture and history tours in Scandinavia
• Related: Best cities in Scandinavia to visit

Day 11:  A trip to Norway isn't complete without a look at its lofty interior: Norway’s mountainous "rooftop". Board the train from Oslo to Flåm, and see quaint villages like Gol and Geilo along the way.

Day 12:  From Flåm you can travel on a boat tour, where you will be treated to the wonderful fjord scenery of the Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-protected Nærøyfjord. Then board a train for Bergen.

Day 13:  Bergen, also known as the "Gateway to the Fjords", has a medieval city core you can explore called Bryggen. This is a perfect window into the city’s past, and if you have time, you could also visit the Fantoft Stave Church.

Day 14:  Your Scandinavian and Baltic break is now done. Spend your morning relaxing in Bergen before flying home.

3. Head into the Arctic Circle in winter

Best Scandinavian tour for:  a memorable winter getaway and Arctic adventure.

The Arctic Circle is a land of wonder – home to polar bears, reindeer, sled dogs, killer whales, the northern lights and even Santa Claus. Especially in Northern Norway, the landscape is magical during the winter... like Narnia brought to life.

This itinerary is for you if you’ve always dreamed of following in the footsteps of famed explorers. It's also ideal if you're keen to hop on the back of a dog sled and race through the snow under the changing colours of the aurora borealis.

• Visit Northern Norway or explore these  winter tour packages of Scandinavia
• Related:  Scandinavia in winter – What to do & where to go

What is the best itinerary for a winter tour of the Arctic Circle?

Day 1:  Oslo is your first stop. Explore some of the cultural highlights, such as the Norske Folkemuseum, before departing for the northern fjords.

Day 2: After a city break in Oslo, you're now flying   up to pretty  Tromsø , considered the capital of Arctic Norway. Keep your eyes peeled on the sky as Tromsø is prime northern lights spotting territory!

Day 3:  Explore Tromsø and see attractions like the Polar Museum and the Arctic Cathedral. Or take the Fjellheisen cable car to Mount Storsteinen for sweeping views of the scenery. In the evening, hop aboard a cruise ship bound for Kirkenes .

Day 4:  On this cruise, you’ll head for the North Cape (Nordkapp) , famed for its landscape and wildlife. You could have the chance to see whales, dolphins and the aurora borealis all from the deck of the ship.

Day 5:  At Kirkenes, deep in the Arctic Circle, you can spend a night in the incredible Kirkenes SnowHotel . Whilst here, book a snowmobile safari and learn about the traditions of the native Sami people.

Day 6:  Wake up with a warming stint in the sauna before embracing more of the winter sports on offer here, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding.

Day 7:  Enjoy the last of the beautiful winter light and landscapes before heading home.

• View these ice and snow hotel packages in Norway
• Related: Your guide to the Nordic ice hotels

4. Take the wheel of a Scandinavian road trip

Best Scandinavian tour for:  exploring at a slower pace and stopping when and where you want to.

Road trips are one of the best ways to get to know a country or region. If you really want to experience the beauty of Scandinavia at your own pace, there are few better ways than hitting the open road.

With this self-drive itinerary, you can take your time and make the most of the incredible scenery of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. All that while taking advantage of parking the car as you wish to tour the towns of Scandinavia on foot.

• Take the wheel of your own road trip with one of these self-drive tours in Scandinavia
• Related:  2-week road trips through Scandinavia – Your guide

What is the best itinerary for a self-drive tour of Scandinavia?

Day 1:  Kick off your tour in Stockholm by strolling around the Södermalm neighbourhood of Sweden’s capital, where you can shop and dine in style.

Day 2:  Spend another day exploring Stockholm. Sightsee around the Old Town and Djurgården, where many of the city’s finest museums are located.

Day 3:  Pick up your car and head north to Borlänge. On the way, stop off at Enköping, where you can see Grönsö Castle and some rock carvings from the Viking age. Driving distance: 230 kilometres (143 miles).

Day 4:  Before departing Borlänge, make time for the fascinating Gammelgården open-air museum. Then drive through the mountains towards the Norwegian border, to the UNESCO-listed town of Røros . Driving distance: 415  kilometres  (258 miles).

Day 5:  Today, drive to Lom, passing through 2 national parks, Dovrefjell and Rondane. Later, take advantage of the outdoor activities in the  Jotunheimen National Park . Driving distance: 315  kilometres  (196 miles).

• Browse  family trips in Scandinavia

Day 6:  There are a few different routes from Lom to the Sogndal region: the Sognefjell route, the Strynefjell route and the Geiranger route. All offer breathtaking scenery of the fjords, so you just have to choose your favourite route. Driving distance: 135 kilometres (84 miles), 290 kilometres (180 miles) and 340 kilometres (211 miles), respectively.

Day 7:  Drive from Sogndal to Bergen, "the fjord capital", and see quaint fishing villages like Aurland and Flåm on your way. Driving distance: 240  kilometres  (149 miles).

Day 8:  Spend some time exploring Bergen’s historical treasures, such as the medieval Bryggen. Then drive east passing through Hardangervidda National Park before stopping in Geilo.  Driving distance: 240  kilometres  (149 miles).

Day 9:  From Geilo, wind your way through the Hallingdal Valley to Oslo. Once in the Norway capital, explore attractions like the Oslo Opera House.  Driving distance: 240  kilometres  (149 miles).

Day 10:  After a morning in Oslo, cross back into Sweden and drive along the Göta älv River to Gothenburg. Don’t forget to see the Bohus Fortress, set just north of the city. Driving distance: 325  kilometres  (202 miles).

• Check out these summer tours in Scandinavia

Day 11:  Today, you’ll drive south to Copenhagen, the Danish capital. In Sweden's pretty Helsingborg, you can take a 20-minute ferry to Helsingør in Denmark. On the way to Copenhagen, drop by Kronborg Castle, the home of Shakespeare's Hamlet . Driving distance: 270  kilometres  (168 miles).

Day 12:  You have the full day to explore the highlights of royal Copenhagen.

Day 13:  After final goodbyes to Denmark, drive over the Öresund Bridge back to Sweden. Keep an eye out for Glimmingehus, a medieval manor, and the Stenshuvud National Park.  Driving distance: 300  kilometres  (186 miles).

Day 14:  Explore the Kingdom of Crystal (Glasriket) , known for its famous glassworks, and pick up a souvenir. Then, stop in Linköping to visit the Old Linköping open-air museum for an insight into the region’s past. Driving distance: 225  kilometres  (140 miles).

Day 15:  Head back to Stockholm by way of the quaint seaside town of Trosa, which is home to the 18th-century Tullgarn Castle. Driving distance: 200  kilometres  (124 miles).

Day 16:  On your last day, return the car and enjoy your last few hours in Stockholm before you depart.

5. Chase the northern lights in Scandinavia

Best Scandinavian tour for:  a winter adventure and witnessing the auroras.

If seeing the northern lights is on your bucket list, Northern Norway is for you. It is an ideal destination for glimpsing the aurora borealis as they illuminate the night sky.

Northern Scandinavia is also the place to discover incredible Arctic wildlife, experience a stay in a snow hotel, enjoy winter sports and meet the native Sami people that call this part of the world home.

You can live out your wildest winter wonderland fantasies here. For a tour like this, we recommend you plan for at least 5-7 days to give you ample time to catch the mythical northern lights before you depart.

• Check out these  northern lights tours in Norway
• Related:  Best time and place to see northern lights in Norway

What is the best itinerary for a northern lights tour in Scandinavia?

Day 1:  Arrive in Tromsø, the “Capital of the North”. Set within the Arctic Circle, you're in for a true northern experience. In the evening, go on a guided tour into the wilderness, where you will hear about the local Sami folklore and hopefully see the blush of the aurora borealis.

Day 2: Spend the day taking   full advantage of your Arctic location and go on a dog sled tour through the pristine snowscapes of Tromsø.

Day 3:  Save this day for touring Tromsø itself. Duck into attractions like the Polar Museum and the Art Museum of Northern Norway. If you want more action, go cross-country skiing, ice fishing or take a cable car up to Mount Storsteinen.

Day 4:  If dog sledding kicked up the adrenalin, then you’ll be blown away by a private tour snowmobiling through the Arctic wilderness. A guide will lead you safely through some of the area’s most spectacular spots.

Day 5:  Relax in the morning, because tonight you're going on an evening cruise. This is a stellar opportunity to see the small villages that decorate the surrounding fjords and catch sight of a northern lights show.

Day 6:  Soak in the crisp air and Arctic tranquillity before heading home.

6. Explore Norway onboard iconic train journeys

Best Scandinavian tour for:  a taste of everything and enjoying the view from the window.

Go back to another time, when hopping on a train was the only way to travel. Crossing a country by rail is undeniably romantic, and Norway happens to be home to the Flåm Railway, considered to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

If you love the idea of watching the scenery of Norway unfold before you from a train window, but would like to also experience sailing along the Norwegian fjords, then this tour was made for you.

• Enjoy the view from the window with one of these train trips around Scandinavia
• Related: Romantic trip ideas for Norway

What is the best itinerary for a train tour of Norway?

Day 1:  Get excited for your tour of Norway, starting off in Oslo. Spend some time exploring some of its best attractions, like the Munch Museum and Aker Brygge .

Day 2:  One day in Oslo is not quite enough to cross off all of the capital’s stunning sights. If you missed them the day before, go see the beautiful Vigeland Sculpture Park or the Royal Palace.

Day 3:  Today your train tour kicks off in earnest: hop on the Norway in a Nutshell® train journey towards Bergen. Along the way, you'll be taken over the mountainous “rooftop” of Norway. Once you get to Myrdal, switch to the  Flåm Railway for the remarkable ride to Flåm.

Day 4:  Take this day to explore Flåm and its surroundings. You could enjoy a fjord safari or kayaking tour.

Day 5:  The highlight today is a short cruise through two of the most breathtaking fjords of Norway: Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed  Nærøyfjord . Then hop on another train to Bergen.

Day 6:  Tour Bergen, starting in Bryggen, its medieval centre, and then heading up Mount Fløyen on the Fløibanen funicular , for jaw-dropping views of the city.

Day 7:  Your week-long Norwegian adventure is now over. Time to depart Bergen for home, and make all your friends jealous with your photos.

• Check out  Norway in a Nutshell train tours from Oslo
• Related:  Why Bergen’s called the gateway to Norway’s fjords

7. Go on a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise

Best Scandinavian tour for:  seeing the fjords and taking in the sea air.

We could not, in all good conscience, write a list of the best Scandinavian tours without covering a cruise along the Norwegian coast and into the fjords of Norway. If you’re looking for a guided tour in Scandinavia, you can’t do much better.

On this classic itinerary, you would spend about 10 days bobbing along the undulating coastline of Norway, past sites such as Sognefjord , the Seven Sisters and the Bridal Veil . Best of all, you can hop on and off and experience treasures on shore like the city of Ålesund .

Oh, and did we mention there's train travel as well? That's right, on this route you also enjoy a trip on the wondrous Flåm Railway.

• Browse  Norway fjord cruise and train packages
• Or these  Hurtigruten cruises and coastal tours in Norway

What is the best itinerary for a tour of the Norwegian fjords?

Day 1:  Arrive in Oslo and enjoy a walking tour of the city, covering the Royal Palace, Akershus fortress, Oslo City Hall and the Oslo Opera House .

Day 2:  In the morning, hop on a train to  Trondheim , which takes you over the Dovre mountain plateau. When you arrive, don't miss the Nidaros Cathedral and the Ringve Museum and botanical garden.

Day 3:  Embrace the maritime pastime of Norway by setting sail along the scenic Trondheim Fjord. You’ll pass Hitra Island, Kristiansund and Molde , before docking in the historic city of Ålesund.

Day 4:  Take some time to explore Ålesund  and discover its Art Nouveau architecture. You could pop by the Atlantic Sea Park and the Fjellstua mountain viewpoint.

Day 5:  On this day, the fjords truly take centre stage. As you sail towards Geirangerfjord , you’ll be able to see the soaring mountains and dramatic waterfalls of the region, including the famed Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil. In the evening, return to Ålesund.

Day 6:  From Ålesund, head down to Bergen. You can spend time by the old wharf of Bryggen, an important heritage site in the city.

Day 7:  You have another day in Bergen. Head to the Edvard Grieg Museum or take in the spectacular panoramic views from Mount Fløyen.

Day 8:  Depart from Bergen travelling all the way to Voss. Then you'll embark on a short fjord cruise to Flåm, and see the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, the narrowest fjord in all of Europe.

Day 9:  In Flåm you can explore and hike around the village. Later, you'll take on the glorious Flåm Railway trip, a 900-metre (3,000 feet), picture-perfect ride up to Myrdal Station. Here, you’ll change trains, and be taken over the magnificent mountainous terrain of Norway, all the way to Oslo.

Day 10:  You’ve arrived, and there’s nothing more to do except enjoy a Norwegian smørrebrød  (an open-faced sandwich invented by the Danes) before departing for home.

Which of these trips would you choose? Found one that inspires you?

Remember these are just some of the possibilities to travel across Scandinavia. And if you’re not sure where to start, browse our Scandinavia tour packages . They are tried-and-tested routes crafted by local experts based in Stockholm, Sweden.

You could also get in touch with the experts and ask for their advice. They can tailor an itinerary to fit your interests and preferences.

When you book with Nordic Visitor, you’re in good hands. We plan your route and arrange your accommodation, transportation and activities, all before you arrive. That means you can relax and focus on enjoying your adventure!

Get in touch with Nordic Visitor  when you’re ready to start planning your Scandinavian escape.

Greg Perkins is from Edinburgh, Scotland, but he adopted Iceland as his second country when Scotland (typically) managed not to qualify for football's Euro 2016 tournament. His passions include travel, English literature, and board games. Among his top travel experiences are sailing along Geirangerfjord with classically trained singers providing the soundtrack, seeing Sólheimajökull glacier up close in South Iceland, and witnessing the unspoiled beauty of New Zealand's Doubtful Sound fjord.

Find Greg on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SCANDINAVIA

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Summer in Scandinavia: five eco-friendly ideas to holiday like a local

The essence of a Nordic summer is to lean into a slower pace of life and embrace nature, from staying in a Swedish summer house to gentle canoe tours in Finland

Oslo: summer in the city

With swimmable harbours in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki and across Denmark’s cities, not to mention plenty of ways to enjoy the sea, from kayaking to urban fishing, there’s often a seaside air to Nordic cities in summer, and especially in Oslo.

One of the best summer activities is to tour the Oslofjord and its archipelago by boat – pack a picnic and set sail in search of hidden swimming spots and colourful island houses. Brim Explorer is one of the best options: an eco-friendly boat company offering silent tours powered by an electric motor (tours from £44). You can also show your love for the water by joining Mad Goats in their fjord clean-up operations every Sunday; participation gives you access to one of their saunas for free and a free burger at the end.

There’s a growing art scene to discover around the harbour. The National Museum is showing an unmissable exhibition by Sápmi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba focused on the environmental struggle and climate issues seen from an indigenous perspective, until August. Afterwards, stroll around the harbour promenade past the opera house, and visit the Munch Museum . There is a new family-friendly beach, Operastranda, by the Opera House this year; it’s also great to swim at the Sørenga seawater pool . Stay at the eco-conscious Oslo Guldsmeden , a Nordic-Balinese hotel in the Vika district from £100 a night.

Explore Denmark ’s sunniest isle

Bornholm is officially the Danes’ favourite holiday spot (as voted for last year in the Danish Travel Awards). Reachable by bus and ferry or hydrofoil from Copenhagen, it’s known as the country’s sunshine island: Svaneke, a charming harbour town on the west coast, is the sunniest spot in the whole of Denmark.

There’s no need for a car: you can get around relatively easily by bike and bus to explore fishing villages and small towns such as Gudhjem, known for its national cooking competition , and sunny Svaneke, in search of the best ice-cream, smoked herring and locally brewed beer. Bornholm has an artist colony vibe reminiscent of parts of Cornwall and is well known for its ceramics. You can find small workshops and galleries dotted around its villages, and especially in the town of Nexø, where there is a ceramics school. Beaches are wide, sandy and beautiful – especially child-friendly, dune-backed Dueodde, which Lonely Planet recently listed as one of the 20 best beaches in Europe .

New this year, Eco Beach Camp offers glamping from about £150 a night (sleeping two to four) on the beach just steps from the island’s Michelin-starred Kadeau restaurant, known for its focus on hyper-local, sustainable food. Or rent a summer house through firms including Novasol and Dancenter where rates start from about £300 for a week’s stay. It’s expected that you’ll bring basics with you, including bed linen.

Norway’s Arctic hiking route

Culture and nature come together on Norway’s longest hiking route this summer. The 400-mile Nordlandsruta , which runs along the Norwegian-Swedish border, will be joining in the celebrations to mark the Arctic city of Bodø’s year in the spotlight as one of 2024’s European Capitals of Culture. There are a range of artist-led events in cabins along the trail, and activities include poetry and portrait workshops and a mobile perfumery making scents from the herbs that hikers pick along the route.

Evening entertainment includes campfire cooking, improv theatre and Sápmi lassoo throwing. It also plays into another key Nordic travel theme: friluftsliv , a love of the great outdoors. Norwegians love to hike and there is an extensive network of trails, with hiking cabins along them, across the country.

It’s a beautiful hike – whether you’re in the region for the celebrations or not – passing through the Arctic Circle, Laponian Area world heritage site , national parks and Sápmi cities. From meadows filled with wildflowers to snow-capped mountains, reindeer-herding plateaux and raging rivers, it has all the drama you’d expect of this northern landscape. There are 43 unstaffed huts on the route – you’ll need a key from Norwegian trekking organisation DNT to use them.

To walk the whole route would take around six weeks, but it’s broken down into eight smaller stages for those with less time. For ramblers with an eye on reindeer herding and Sápmi husbandry, the 57-mile stretch from Raudlia to Susendalen treks across two valleys and past the hat-shaped Hatten mountain while the 45-mile section from Bolna to Umbukta skirts the sacred Sápmi mountain of Auronasen, silver mines and a glacier. Weekend hikes along the trail are also possible from Narvik and Bodø.

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Finland’s peaceful waterways

If you like lakes, islands and trees, Finland is the place for you – it is the most forested country in Europe and has more bodies of water than any other country in the world . In the Kainuu region in the east of the country, it’s easy to get away from the crowds for pure immersion in Nordic nature.

Nature Travels offers self-guided canoe tours in the region where you can camp wild along the route, fish for your supper and go at your own pace. The pick of the bunch is a remote adventure on the Tar Route (from £154 per person, for three nights/four days, based on two people, including all equipment and transfers to start point), the historic route once used to transport tar to the Baltic Sea. Instead of tar, your cargo will be just yourselves, your tent and enough food for a four to eight-day tour of quiet waterways, short and easily bypassed rapids, and protected islands.

Along the route you might spot moose, foxes, owls or even eagles. Stop to fish for your dinner, cook it on an open fire and retire to a lean-to shelter or tent in the evening. Look out, too, for island saunas, dotted along the route, where you can ease the tension in your back and arms after a hard day’s paddle. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent: Finland’s forests are known for their pesky flies.

This route commonly starts from Kuhmo, accessed by train and bus from Helsinki, while Helsinki itself can be reached by ferry from Stockholm if you prefer not to fly.

Stay in a Swedish summer house

It’s traditional in this part of the world to spend at least part of the summer in a “summer house” (actually more of a simple cabin) in nature. The essence of summer house life is leaning into a slower pace of life: read a book under a tree, bake a cake, a gentle walk. It’s about living in harmony with nature, too, and embracing the joys it offers, including sea swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.

The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most accessible and popular summer house destinations. Access is via one of the many public ferries (one-way trips from the city pier cost up to £14 depending on the location). It’s as easy as taking a bus.

The region is protected by the Archipelago Foundation , which preserves public access to land and water in the area, and has a wide range of characterful accommodation spread all over the islands. They include a 19th-century former customs house on the remote and rocky island of Huvudskär, remade into a rustic youth hostel (room rates from £186 for a four-bed room), as well as summer cottages on the activity-packed southern island of Utö, where two-person cabins start at around £338 for a week in high season.

Summer cottages usually require you to bring bed linen. Depending on which island you choose, you might need to bring all your supplies for the week too. Peak season for Scandinavia is typically July – travel in August for slightly reduced rates.

Copenhagen-based Laura Hall writes the Modern Scandinavian newsletter

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