Be inspired to explore Europe by car this summer on one, or more, of these themed driving routes.
01.05.2024 - 09:17 / lonelyplanet.com / Art
The culturally rich city of Copenhagen has plenty to keep visitors busy for many days, but it’s also ideally situated for day trips to a variety of other interesting and scenic destinations in Denmark and beyond, bringing to mind knitted wool sweaters, colorful snow-topped houses and warm hygge vibes.
Travelers interested in adventures further afield will find impressive castles, historic cathedrals, top-notch museums, captivating cities and quaint villages, all within easy reach by public transport in 90 minutes or less.
Learn about Denmark's history of kings and Vikings, explore its lovely landscapes and discover a world apart from its cosmopolitan capital.
Why go: Marvel at Denmark’s most lavish castle
In the early 17th century, Denmark's legendary King Christian IV took the original castle in Hillerød and transformed it into a magnificent Renaissance-style royal residence. His creation, the fairytale Frederiksborg Slot – often called "the Nordic Versailles" – became the Danish National History Museum in 1878.
The castle sits beside a lake and features lovely Baroque gardens, while its interior is both historically fascinating and lavishly appointed – the ballroom and the chapel are exceptionally breathtaking. During summer weekends, guided tours of the castle take place at 11:30am, and there is a special children's exhibit for young visitors.
How to get to Hillerød from Copenhagen:
Take S-train line A to Hillerød. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Frederiksborg Castle is a 15-minute walk from Hillerød station. If that's too long a walk, buses 301 or 302 will take you to the castle from outside the station in about five minutes.
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Why go: Visit the castle that inspired Shakespeare's Hamlet
The charming seaside town of Helsingør sits on Denmark's northeastern coast, 45 minutes by train from Copenhagen. Adjacent to the historic homes and local shops and cafes is the town's centerpiece, Kronborg Castle, the inspiration for Elsinore in William Shakespeare's Hamlet. King Frederik II transformed a military stronghold into a stunning Renaissance castle in the 1500s to collect dues from passing ships and demonstrate his wealth and power. It was the opulence of the castle and lavish feasts held here that inspired the Bard.
Today, visitors can tour the royal apartments, admire the king's tapestries and explore the eerie casemates under the castle. Between June and August, costumed actors roam the castle in character, performing scenes from Hamlet. In December, Kronborg hosts a cozy Christmas market. Helsingør town is a lovely place to dine, and the cathedrals of Sankt Mariæ and Sankt Olai are beautiful and free to
Be inspired to explore Europe by car this summer on one, or more, of these themed driving routes.
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Irrespective of rain or sunshine, the Danes are always ready to embrace hygge, a concept that involves enjoying the good things in life – and that definitely includes enjoying the excellent cuisine the country has on offer. Dive into Denmark’s gastronomy at these top-notch eateries which carefully source and celebrate every ingredient.
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