- Many cities in Denmark date back to the time of Vikings.
- For hikers, Søhøjlandet and the Troll Forest and must-visits
- The Funen Village Museum in Odense puts up acts to recreate the city as it were in the time of Hans Christian Andersen.
One of the most well-known tourist sites in Denmark is the Little Mermaid statue. However, this isn’t all Denmark has to offer. The country is rich in natural beauty and has a long and interesting history. Read on to learn more about the 10 places to visit in Denmark.
A camera is one of the first things you must pack for a trip to Denmark. If fairytales could come true, this beautiful Scandinavian country is where they would be set. The country abounds in picturesque landscapes, grand castles, palaces and more.
A tourist visa for Denmark is relatively easy to get and the best time to visit this country is between May and August. While you’re there, here are the top 10 sights you must include on your itinerary.
Denmark Sightseeing – Quick Facts
- Best Time to Visit – June to August
- Peak Season – July and August
- Key Events & Festivals – Independence Day on June 5, Distortion, Jazz Festivals, and Viking Festival
Places To Visit In Denmark – Tipping And Etiquette
- You can tip 10% of the bill amount if you are happy with the service
- Skipping queue is considered rude
- Do not be loud and noisy
- Once finish eating it is customary to place your knife and fork together on an empty plate
Apps You Can Use While Travelling To Denmark
- Mobilbilletter – Useful if you are using public transportation. Can be used to buy tickets online
- Bike & Stay – This is useful if you are planning to take a bike or cycle trips around the country. The App will work offline too and will show you route maps, campsites and nearby sightseeing options.
- XE Currency – To know exchange rates
A Comprehensive List Of Top Places To Visit In Denmark
1. Copenhagen
Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and its biggest city. This vibrant city was once a Viking fishing village. The city boasts of spectacular architecture, vibrant gardens, gourmet restaurants and a number of nightlife spots.
The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is its most visited monument. Another spot worth visiting is the famous Tivoli Garden. This amusement park is the second oldest functional amusement park in the world.
Interestingly, the oldest functional amusement park in the world is also located in Denmark.
2. Skagen
Located in northern Denmark, Skagen is the main fishing port for the country. This charming town boasts of scenic seascapes with long sandy beaches, one of Denmark’s oldest lighthouses and an abundance of craft shops.
Given that this is the main fishing port, there are a number of restaurants the offer seafood delicacies. Skagen is very popular with the artist community as well as sailboaters. One of the must-see sights of Skagen is the Buried Church.
The church has a simple structure but what it is known for is the sand that buried it. In the latter half of the 18th century, an entrance had to be dug out every time mass was to be held here.
3. Møns Klint
Over 250,000 tourists visit this 6km long stretch of chalk cliffs along the Baltic Sea each year. The cliffs are part of a nature reserve. At several spots, steps lead down the side of the cliffs to the water’s edge.
There are a number of sea fossils that can be found on the walls of these cliffs. In early summer, one can also see a number of different types of orchids in full bloom.
One of the most well known among them is Lady Orchid. Other points of interest in the vicinity are Liselund Park, the Klintholm Estate and the GeoCenter.
4. Aarhus
The city of Aarhus dates back to the 8th century. In the beginning, it was a fortified Viking settlement. Today, it is the second-largest city in Denmark. Aarhus is an important trade center in Denmark and a cultural hub.
In 2017, it was named the European Capital of Culture. One of the most well-attended festivals in Aarhus is the eight-day international jazz festival held each year. The city’s architecture ranges from Viking style to contemporary.
One of the most prominent landmarks here is the Aarhus Cathedral from the 13th century.
5. Aalborg
Over the years Aalborg has been transformed from a harbor to an industrial and cultural center. The Aalborg carnival held in the month of May is the largest Scandinavian festival. The symphony and theatre in the city are experiences not to be missed.
Jens Bang’s house is one of the city’s prominent landmarks. This sandstone and the half-timbered house is a fine example of 17th century Dutch Renaissance architecture. Other sights to be seen here include the Aalborghus Castle, the Budolfi Church, and the Jomfru Ane Gade.
6. Roskilde
Roskilde is one of the oldest cities in Denmark. It was also one of its early capitals. The Roskilde Cathedral is one of the first Gothic-styled brick cathedrals in Scandinavia.
A number of royal tombs are located here. Roskilde is also known for the Viking Ship Museum. Parts of 5 Viking Ships that were sunk to protect Roskilde are exhibited here. Another interesting sight to see is the Roskilde jars.
These are mammoth-sized jars that were designed to commemorate the city’s 1000th anniversary. If you’re travelling to the city in in the latter half of June, it would be a good idea to time your visit to include the Roskilde festival.
7. Bornholm
Bornholm is geographically closer to Sweden and Poland rather than Denmark. This island is known for arts and craft especially pottery and glass. It boasts of picturesque landscapes of forests, white sandy beaches, and craggy sea cliffs.
Architectural sights worth visiting include the windmills, medieval fortresses, sun temples, and several churches. 4 of these churches are round. Renting a bicycle is the best way to see this town.
8. Rold Skov
Rold Skov is a forest unlike any other. It is the second-largest forest in Denmark and is spread over 80sqkm. The unique way in which the trees of this forest grow has given it the name ‘Magic Forest’.
Over the years the trees here have grown into unique forms and some are even spiral in shape. A hike through the Troll Forest is a must. One can also go horse riding through this forest.
There are a number of rivers that pass through the forest as well. To the east of this forest are limestone mines that are today used as exhibition spaces for underground art.
9. Søhøjlandet Or The Lake-highland
The largest river of Denmark, the Gudenåen meanders through this region. On either side are lush green forests, moors, and hills. Søhøjlandet has some of the best hiking and cycling trails in Denmark.
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, a visit to this region is a must. For families, Søhøjlandet also boasts of a number of picnic and camping spots.
10. Odense
The name of this city can be translated to mean Odin’s sanctuary. This city is the birthplace of one of the world’s most renowned storytellers, Hans Christian Andersen. So, it isn’t surprising to see a number of statues of characters from his stories around town.
Odense, is the third-largest city in Denmark, indeed must find its way to your places to visit in Denmark list. It is also known for a sweet marzipan dessert unique to this city. Other attractions here include the Funen Village Museum, Funen’s Abbey, the Saint Canute’s Cathedral and an old Viking Castle.
The Funen Village Museum puts on acts to recreate life in the city during the time when Hans Andersen lived here.
Getting To Denmark
Denmark falls within the Schengen area. Hence, one does not need to apply for a Denmark tourist visa but can visit the country with a Schengen visa. This visa allows tourists to stay in Denmark for up to 3 months. Copenhagen airport is the main airport of the country.
