8 of the best places to visit in Denmark

28.08.2024 - 19:42 / lonelyplanet.com

Aug 28, 2024 • 0 min read

Denmark might be the smallest of the Scandinavian nations, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to things to see and do. Unlike its neighbors, Sweden and Norway, it is not a land of mountains and forests. This small, flat country – split across two main islands and a large spit of land attached to mainland Europe – is fringed with white sand beaches and pretty fishing villages. It’s also an island nation with 444 islands, including Zealand, where the urbane and chic capital Copenhagen is located. 

It’s an easy place to visit Denmark: everyone speaks English (quite possibly, better than you) and it’s easy to get around too, by car, public transport or bike. 

Here are some of the very best places to consider including in any itinerary.

Best for world-class city living

Denmark’s capital is a small, bike-happy city where the world’s best chefs rub shoulders, fashionistas prowl the streets, and the idea of hustle culture is anathema. Dominated by stunning architecture – from ancient castles to experimental offices – and a strong commitment to work-life balance, visit for yourself to see if you can spot why it regularly tops the list of the world’s most liveable cities.  

What to see? Well, there’s the rub. It’s not a city packed with sights, the iconic but often underwhelming Little Mermaid being the most well-known. It’s more about experiencing a laid-back local vibe: rent a bike and explore, swim in the harbor , eat pastries at one of the city’s top-rated bakeries, ride the electric harbor bus , brunch at Glyptoteket and wander around its marble statue gallery, marvel at Viking treasure in the National Museum, and ride historic rollercoasters at Tivoli Gardens. More offbeat options include skiing down Copenhill , exploring the beach promenade at Amager Strand and visiting the modern art gallery Arken , a short train ride south of the city.

Planning tip: Copenhagen’s restaurants don’t often take walk-ins: book online and reconfirm before you visit. C heck out our guide to the best places to eat and drink in Copenhagen.

Best for student vibes

Aarhus is Denmark’s bijou second city and is home to a large university along with a huge modern art gallery topped with a rainbow walkway, ARoS , and an outstanding ethnographic museum, Moesgaard , famous for the bog body of the Grauballe Man. There’s a youthful vibe on the streets, particularly in the Latin Quarter, a handful of cobbled streets where cafes spill out onto the pavement and colorful independent shops sell homewares and fashion. It’s also a good base for anyone staying in Jutland, with a decent range of hotels and places to eat. Near to Aarhus, you can find the Mols Bjerge National Park and the