Denmark – Destination Guide

Denmark is a nation of storybook charm and progressive living, where Viking history meets cutting-edge design. From Copenhagen’s colourful harbour to windswept North Sea beaches, this Scandinavian gem blends cosmopolitan style with laid-back coastal life. Visitors can explore medieval castles, cycle through charming towns, and enjoy the country’s famous hygge culture — the art of cosy, contented living.

Whether you’re here for world-class cuisine, outdoor adventures, or simply to soak in the relaxed Danish lifestyle, Denmark offers a warm welcome in every season.

🏞️ Regions to Explore

Copenhagen

• Capital city known for colourful Nyhavn harbour and royal palaces
• World-class dining including several Michelin-starred restaurants
• Cycle-friendly streets and vibrant neighbourhoods like Vesterbro and Nørrebro

Zealand (Sjælland)

• Home to Kronborg Castle, inspiration for Shakespeare’s Hamlet
• Stunning coastal villages and sandy beaches
• Roskilde Cathedral and Viking Ship Museum

Aarhus & Jutland Peninsula

• Denmark’s second-largest city with a thriving arts scene
• Endless beaches and dunes along the west coast
• Legoland Billund and historical open-air museums

Funen (Fyn)

• Birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen in Odense
• Rolling countryside, manor houses, and flower gardens
• Great for cycling holidays

Bornholm

• Baltic Sea island with rocky cliffs and sandy beaches
• Famous for smoked herring and round churches
• A haven for hiking and cycling

🧭 Top Experiences

• Stroll along Nyhavn and enjoy a canal cruise in Copenhagen
• Visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks
• Explore Kronborg Castle in Helsingør
• Cycle the Oresund Bridge route between Denmark and Sweden (or take the train)
• Taste New Nordic cuisine at Noma or other acclaimed restaurants
• Discover Viking history at Roskilde’s Viking Ship Museum
• Relax on Bornholm’s beaches or hike its dramatic coast
• Tour Legoland Billund with family

🛂 Visa Requirements

• Denmark is part of the Schengen Area
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens – no visa required
• Many other nationalities (including Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, UK) – visa-free for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period
• Other nationalities may require a Schengen visa – apply in advance via the Danish embassy or consulate
• Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date

👉 Check official visa requirements here

🛬 Getting There

Copenhagen Airport (CPH)

• Main international gateway, 8 km from the city centre
• Direct flights from major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia
• Metro, train, bus, and taxi connections to Copenhagen (15–20 minutes)

Other Major Airports

• Billund Airport (BLL) – Jutland, gateway to Legoland and west coast
• Aarhus Airport (AAR) – Serving Aarhus and surrounding region

🚗 Getting Around

• Excellent train network connecting major cities and towns
• Domestic flights between Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, and Bornholm
• Car rental for exploring rural areas and islands
• Extensive cycling infrastructure nationwide
• Ferries to Bornholm and other islands

🍛 Food & Drink

• Known for New Nordic cuisine and fresh local ingredients
• Must-try dishes:

• • Smørrebrød – open-faced sandwiches with varied toppings

  • Frikadeller – Danish meatballs

  • Stegt flæsk – crispy pork with parsley sauce

• Traditional drinks include akvavit, local beers, and fruit schnapps
• Pastries like wienerbrød (Danish pastries) are a national treasure

🛍️ What to Buy

• Danish design homewares and furniture
• Royal Copenhagen porcelain
• Georg Jensen silver jewellery
• Woollen sweaters and knitwear
• Local gourmet products like honey, chocolate, and liquorice

📅 Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Apr – Jun) – Mild weather, blooming gardens, fewer tourists
• Summer (Jul – Aug) – Warmest months, long days, festivals, best for beaches
• Autumn (Sep – Oct) – Colourful foliage, harvest season
• Winter (Nov – Mar) – Christmas markets, hygge culture, cosy cafes

⚠️ Practical Info

• Electricity – 230V | Plug types C and K
• Water – Safe to drink from the tap
• Internet – Excellent nationwide coverage and fast speeds
• Vaccinations – Routine vaccinations recommended; tick-borne encephalitis for long rural stays
• Travel Insurance – Strongly recommended for all visitors
• Money – Danish Krone (DKK)
• Tipping – Not obligatory; rounding up or small amounts appreciated for good service
• Cultural Tips – Be punctual; respect cycling lanes; remove shoes in homes
• Safety – Very safe country with low crime rates; use normal precautions
• LGBTQIA+ Friendliness – Extremely inclusive; Denmark was the first country to legalise same-sex partnerships
• Connectivity – SIM cards available at airports and convenience stores (TDC, Telia, 3 Denmark). Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

🎒 What to Pack

Clothing

• Lightweight layers for spring/summer
• Warm coat, scarf, and gloves for autumn/winter
• Waterproof jacket for rain
• Comfortable walking shoes and/or cycling shoes
• Swimwear for beaches or spas

Travel Essentials

• Daypack for exploring cities or countryside
• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen for summer
• Reusable water bottle
• Toiletries
• Umbrella or compact rain cover

Health & Safety

• Prescription medications
• Basic first-aid kit
• Insect repellent for summer in rural areas

Tech & Documents

• Power adapter (Type C/K)
• Camera or smartphone with charger
• Travel insurance documents
• Passport and any required visa
• Copies of key documents

Optional Extras

• Picnic blanket for summer outings
• Binoculars for birdwatching
• Snacks for train journeys

🌟 Why Visit Denmark?

Denmark offers a seamless mix of history, design, and coastal charm. You can spend your mornings exploring castles and your afternoons cycling along scenic canals, then settle in for a cosy evening enjoying hygge culture over world-class food. With its welcoming atmosphere, rich heritage, and effortless style, Denmark is a destination that feels both inspiring and relaxing.